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Council hears of elevated trihalomethane levels at Denny's sampling site; city awaiting state guidance
Summary
City officials told the council that trihalomethane (TTHM) levels sampled at a Denny's site exceeded prior values, with staff citing seasonal increases and that the city is awaiting direction from the New York State Department of Health while considering flushing and targeted responses.
At the council meeting, a city official announced a monitoring exceedance for total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) at the Denny's sampling site and reported that the most recent sample measured 80 parts per billion at that location, with seasonal averages described as rising to 145 in the fall. The commissioner who raised the matter said the exceedance was first noticed that afternoon and that the city had not yet received guidance from the state Department of Health. He stated the issue appears isolated to a section of the distribution system with lower turnover.
During discussion Commissioner of Finance explained the chemistry and operational drivers: "Trihalomethanes and halacetic acids have been, it's a disinfection byproduct that is a result of the use of chlorine as a disinfectant." He and others said warmer months and reservoir shallowing increase organic concentrations that combine with chlorine to form disinfection byproducts. Staff said localized flushing would be the first operational response and that the city is seeking Department of Health guidance on whether a public notification is required.
What council said: Officials emphasized they were sharing results promptly and that at present the exceedance appears to be localized rather than a citywide drinking-water failure. The commissioner who reported the results said: "I found that at 03:00, and I think it's on a section of pipe that is not utilized the same way... the turnover isn't as frequent."
Why it matters: TTHMs are regulated disinfection byproducts; sustained exceedances can trigger notification requirements or corrective actions from the state. Residents near the sampling location or on the affected distribution branch may see operational responses such as flushing. City officials said they will follow state guidance and provide updates once received.
