Dark water pouring out of faucets in St. Cloud
St. Cloud officials say the water flowing out of their water plant is clear.
They say stainless steel tanks replaced two aluminum tanks that failed two years ago and ultimately caused a malfunction in a filter system.
That failure led to thousands of residents finding orange and brown sediment in their water.
"We are focused on the problem every day, things we have done in past 4 to 5 months have brought positive results." said St. Cloud Interim Utilities Director Brian Wheeler.
At a meeting Tuesday night, frustrated residents demanded to know what the city is going to do for them while the process to clear the sediment out of the distribution system continues.. They shared stories of orange stained sinks, tubs and clothing.
"I don't know where you live but where I live, I can't put my kids in the tub. We have to filter all our water and I still get that bill," one resident said.
City officials won't commit to whether residents will get any type of reimbursement on their water bill or if the city will start providing them free, bottled water.
They do say both possibilities will be considered. They also say the particles in the water are not a health threat
"From standpoint of water quality required under safe water drinking act, the water meets that criteria," Wheeler said.
Resident Renee Bronson showed WESH 2 News Tuesday night some video of black liquid coming out of her faucet. City officials say they're investigating Bronson's claim and they believe it's not related to the orange water other residents have experienced and may be an issue problem unique to her street or home.
As frustration builds the city tried to appease resident concerns by explaing otheir latest attempt to clear the pipes known as "ice pigging." Ice is pushed through the pipes collect sediment and force it out but the process can take weeks.