water

The city of Columbia is inviting residents to provide their perspective on proposed water rate structural changes, and the proposed 2026 city budget at the next City Council meeting on Aug. 4.

The Water Utility attributed the discolored water to upgrades at the McBaine Water Treatment Plant.

35% of customers could see significant increases in water utility rates, while 65% may see slight decreases.

The Maries County town has until 2029 to reduce levels of PFOS that were found in a sample of its drinking water.

The current drought alert has been in effect since October and is set to expire at the end of March.

One letter cites a lack of “fitness or qualification” as the reason for termination – despite positive performance reviews. The letters also contained inaccuracies and inconsistencies about the employee and their job.

The firings are part of a sweeping, nationwide effort to remove probationary workers from the federal government.

Sen. Mike Henderson said the bill protects farmers’ privacy. Public information advocates and environmental groups worry about the loss of transparency.

Workers are laying the foundation of a new portion of the McBaine Water Treatment Plant, furthering facility upgrades.

The city says they can confirm about 47,000 water service lines don't contain lead. Approximately 3,000 weren't able to be assessed.