The Athal Mutual Water Company provides water to around 150 people on the Eastside of Bakersfield, and according to residents, it’s normal for the water to have an odor or look like it contains chemicals.
“Because our water still, now that it’s back, it’s still looking oily. Like I looked at it yesterday under the light, and it still looks oily. But I mean, that’s what we’re used to, but we shouldn’t be, because that’s not safe. That’s not healthy for us,” said Norma Hurtado about her water after going nearly a week without water due to a broken pump.
According to the California Water Board, the Athal Mutual Water Company has had a failing water system since 2018 due to elevated levels of 1,2,3-TCP (1,2,3-Trichloropropane). The board sent them and Fuller Acres Mutual Water Company, which is also failing, a letter to consolidate with the Lamont Public Utility District (PUD) in 2022. According to both the California Water Board and Lamont PUD, the Athal Mutal Water Company has not been very responsive to the process…