Bowling Green reports water quality violation and ward redistricting

The City of Bowling Green has alerted residents following a violation of Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) drinking water requirements. During the monitoring period from January to June, the city failed to maintain the required orthophosphate range of 1.5 mg/L or greater for 29 days.

City officials stated that the violation occurred because the water treatment plant’s equipment provided inaccurate results. While orthophosphate is used to control lead and copper levels and is considered nontoxic to most people, the city noted that individuals with severe kidney disease or those on dialysis should consult a health professional. The Utilities Department will increase lead and copper sampling in the distribution system as a result of the violation.

Separately, the Bowling Green City Council has announced plans to update the city’s ward boundaries due to population shifts. Current maps, last revised in 2002, show a 29% population deviation between the largest and smallest wards, exceeding the generally accepted 10% threshold. The council is seeking community input through public meetings to ensure fair representation ahead of the 2027 municipal elections.