GALION, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—In a Facebook Live session on Monday night, Galion Mayor Tom O’Leary faced mounting frustrations from residents regarding the water situation in Galion.
Despite notices from the EPA and ongoing violations, O’Leary maintained that the drinking water is safe.
During the live presentation, O’Leary discussed the upcoming committee meetings and urged residents to tune in on Tuesday at 7 p.m., as the Zoning and Permits committee will address the issue of allowing residents to keep a limited number of egg-laying chickens within city limits.
In recent months, a number of residents have expressed interest in keeping chickens in the city. In the past, this has been an enforcement issue that O’Leary hopes to resolve.
While this topic garnered little interest from residents online, the primary concern remained the safety of the drinking water.
Responding to a viewer’s question about the safety of the water, O’Leary expressed confidence in its quality, stating that while he is not a big water drinker himself, he consumes the water by making two pots of coffee each day. “Yes, I’d drink a glass of water,” O’Leary said.
He emphasized that Galion’s water situation is not as serious as in East Palestine. He attributed the city’s issues to hydrant leaks, water collection, and dam improvements needed to meet EPA standards.
Despite providing residents with information on ongoing efforts to meet EPA regulations and address water concerns, O’Leary could not provide a specific timeline for resolution.
He urged residents to participate in upcoming committee meetings where water issues will be discussed and emphasized the city’s commitment to rectifying the situation.
The meeting calendar can be found on the city’s website.
In closing, O’Leary encouraged residents to engage in the city’s efforts by participating in the Facebook Live events and expressed his intention to continue them for the next year and a half.
“Traditional journalistic outlets and radio stations are not interested in getting information out about Galion. So here we are, you’re stuck with me.” O’Leary said.