The Clean Water Task Force in Shreveport, Louisiana, is making waves by challenging the public's perception of the city's drinking water. In their second meeting, they organized a blind tap-water tasting, inviting residents to sample water from Shreveport, Bossier City, and Monroe and rank them on a scale of one to four. The results were eye-opening, with Bossier City's water taking the top spot, followed by Shreveport's, and Monroe's in the last place.
This initiative is a bold move to address the negative perceptions surrounding Shreveport's water quality. Gwendolyn Phelps, a resident who participated in the tasting, shared her thoughts, noting that while the water samples had similar tastes, she preferred Bossier City's water. She expressed her willingness to drink the water, indicating a potential shift in her perception.
The task force's efforts are not just about tasting; they are also about understanding the city's water treatment process, state grading criteria, and utility rates. Interim Water and Sewer Director Brandon Snead emphasized their commitment to improving Shreveport's overall water grade by November 18, as mandated by the state. This includes taking notes and focusing on new areas that require attention.
The fact that Shreveport's water system received a failing grade from the Louisiana Department of Health for the second consecutive year adds a layer of urgency to the task force's mission. Despite this, members are optimistic about future improvements. City officials are encouraging residents to take action by calling the Department of Water and Sewer for testing, which could lead to better water quality.
The next meeting is set for September 10 in the Southern Hills neighborhood, providing an opportunity for further community engagement and feedback. This proactive approach by the Clean Water Task Force is a step towards ensuring that Shreveport's residents have access to clean and safe drinking water, which is a fundamental right and a crucial aspect of public health.
