Chlorine Taste In Darien Water?

DARIEN, IL — A Darien alderman said he has heard from residents and businesses that city water has more of a chlorine taste. He said he consulted with city staff about why this is the case.

Alderman Tom Chlystek said he was informed the state legislature enacted more stringent requirements for water, prompting the chlorine increase. The requirements were a response to outbreaks of Legionnaires disease in other towns, he said.

"I received some communications from a few residents and some businesses about the quality of water. I don't know if residents have noticed, but it has more of a chlorine taste, a chemical smell," Chlystek said at Monday's City Council meeting.

In the dead ends of water lines, water becomes stagnant, allowing bacterial growth, which is the reason for stricter rules, Chlystek said.

City staff suggested that residents who like to drink tap water fill a pitcher and leave it in the refrigerator overnight. By morning, the chlorine taste should be gone.