PEARSON, Ga. (WALB) - City officials in Pearson say a recent wastewater compliance issue will not harm anyone, and residents should not be alarmed. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) classified the spill as not preventable and said the incident was not the city’s fault.

According to city officials, a broken clarifier rake arm at the wastewater treatment plant caused elevated suspended solids levels between January 28 and February 1. Officials say the effluent’s total suspended solids measured 30 mg/l, more than 1.5 times the permitted weekly limit, which qualifies as a spill under state regulations. Repairs are currently being made to the system, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division Water Quality Division has been notified. Signage has been posted, and stream monitoring has been initiated in accordance with environmental regulations.

Officials say there are no downstream water suppliers within 20 miles of the spill site, and samples will continue to be collected to ensure there are no harmful effects on the community. The local health department, media, and legal organizations are also being notified as required.

The city says water service will be temporarily shut off tomorrow for about two hours as crews upgrade the water system following repairs to a major leak as part of ongoing efforts to improve the city’s water and sewer infrastructure.

City leaders stress that the spill does not pose a danger to residents and that monitoring measures are in place as required.

Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact Pearson Public Works.

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