Run-water order issued in the Falls

Due to the deep frost in the ground, Oconto Falls Municipal Utilities issued a run-water order on Feb. 12. Residents and businesses are required to leave one faucet running at all times. The cold water should be running in a trickle or a stream less than the size of a pencil. Gillett and Lena issued a similar notice. The city of Oconto sent letters to about 200 residents requesting they keep a faucet running. Suring reported no significant problems with freeze-ups. According to municipal leaders, utility bills will be adjusted accordingly. Oconto Falls Utility Supervisor Chuck Grady said extended days of cold temperatures have caused water pipes to freeze in about a dozen homes in various locations in the city. The notice was issued to avoid additional freeze-ups. “Be sure to keep your water running. That’s the main thing. You’ve got to keep the water running 24/7,” he said. The run-water order will be lifted only after an extended warm-up, which Grady estimated to come after April 1. To alert customers of the order, city officials tapped into Oconto County’s telephone notification system, sent out letters and hung posters in public places.