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Fredonia on its own in water crisis

When it comes to the water crisis, it appears Fredonia is on its own.

Earlier this week, the city of Dunkirk offered to assist the village due to high turbidity levels in its water. However, after a discussion with the Chautauqua Health Department, it has been determined the city could do very little in terms of aid.

“Had it been a volume issue, we could have hands down helped with the water,” Director of Public Works director Randy Woodbury said. “But because it’s a cloudiness issue, we found we can’t do much.”

Woodbury noted that if the city pumped water through the hydrants, the water would still have to pass through the village’s pipes so wouldn’t be any better. “Even if we could give them any drinkable water, we can’t,” Woodbury lamented.

“I did receive a call from the mayor (Doug Essek) thanking the city for being there if they need us,” said Dunkirk Mayor Wilfred Rosas. “We offered because we understand what an inconvenience it is for residents to be without water for this long.”

The village remains under a boil water order, which could last into next week. On Monday, Fredonia Mayor Essek indicated the interconnect with the city has not been functioning properly for years. “It’s been out of service for eight years and will be for a few more weeks yet. However, the replacement of the filtration system has begun,” he said. “We ask that all residents continue to be patient. I know it’s been trying, but we’ll get through this.”

One more bottled water giveaway will take place from 8 to 11 a.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. today at the Department of Public Works facility on Eagle Street.

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