Robert Stephenson, Altus Chief of Operations addressed the odor in Altus water in a letter to Mayor David Webb dated Wednesday, May 23. It states, “Mayor, if you have not noticed the odor currently associated with the water is strong and offensive. The problem is one of esthetics and not safety, but still a problem. The water treatment supervisor has been in contact with the Mountain Park Conservancy District Manger and found there is an extreme algae growth at the Tom Steed Lake—our water source.”

The treatment, Stephenson said, involves powdered carbon. “We are currently treating the water with a regimen of activated powdered carbon, a recognized additive for odor control, and other chemicals to combat the odor, and will continue until the problem subsides.” Additionally, Stephenson said, “the root cause of the problem is beyond our immediate control and is a naturally occurring phenomenon. Our treatment staff are taking every effort to reduce the effects of this problem and appreciate the patience of the citizens.”

In a mass notification from the City of Altus’ Blackboard Connect” system on Wednesday, it was stated that the current taste and odor problem was not a safety issue, and that the condition is being treated and should be clearing soon.