City of Aberdeen addressed allegations made by Bob Braun about of falsifying lab reports at the Water Works Treatment Plant

ABERDEEN, S.D.(Press Release)- Aberdeen Mayor Travis Schaunaman released the following statement regarding the allegations made by Bob Braun at the Aberdeen City Council Meeting held Monday:

“During the May 15, 2023 city council meeting, a city employee raised concerns regarding false laboratory reports by a water plant employee. Considering the impact on the drinking water provided to Aberdeen citizens, the council, city staff and I take these allegations seriously. Consequently, an investigation was initiated by staff on Tuesday. To ensure transparency and seek technical support, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) was contacted. A review of DANR records revealed no inconsistencies suggesting false reporting.

After further discussion, it was established that the accusations did not pertain to tests mandated by DANR for compliance with safe drinking water standards. As an additional measure, DANR staff, a representative from South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems (SDARWS) and city officials conducted a walk-through of the Aberdeen Water Treatment Plant on May 17th. No compliance issues were found, and operations were deemed satisfactory.

Currently, I have confidence in the efforts of city staff to meet the safety standards set by DANR for the production of drinking water at the plant. Together with the City Manager and City Engineer, I will closely monitor this matter and ensure the Water Treatment Plant has the necessary resources to deliver quality water.”