University Park mayor issues infant water advisory after nitrate test exceeds standard

University Park Mayor Joseph E. Rudez III on Sunday told residents that Aqua Waters reported a Tier 1 nitrate violation after two-sample testing found a 11.8 mg/L average in the Cananki River, exceeding the maximum contaminant level of 10 mg/L.

"The two sample average was 11.8 mg/l above the maximum contaminant level of 10," Rudez said, and advised that "tap water should not be given to infants under 6 months old or used with a baby formula. Only bottled water should be used to prepare formula." He said the advisory is effective "until further notice."

The mayor described immediate outreach steps: he notified the police department, which is canvassing the community door to door and visiting local churches, including Faith Movers First Baptist and Beyond the Veil, to relay the advisory. Rudez said the village is also using its social media channels and coordinating with major media outlets, and that police, fire and public works staff are actively ensuring residents receive timely notice.

Rudez said the village council has reached out to the state's attorney's office "seeking immediate assistance." He framed the notification as coming from Aqua Waters' president and identified heavy rains and spring fertilizer runoff as the cause cited for the elevated nitrate levels. "The violation is due to high level of nitrates in the Cananki River, the result of heavy rains and runoff of spring fertilizers," he said.

Rudez closed by pledging to keep the community informed and indicated updates will follow as new information becomes available.

Until public-health authorities or the village lift the advisory, residents with infants under 6 months should use bottled water for drinking and formula preparation, the mayor said.