FRANKLIN, Tenn. – Unpleasant smelling water in some parts of Franklin may be a nuisance, but city officials said it's completely safe for use.
Over the past week, residents in the southern part of the city have complained about the water quality.
"This is an issue that has come up that deals with algae that happens to grow in heat and sunlight," explained Franklin City Administrator Eric Stuckey, adding, "This time of year, it's sort of a cyclical thing that can happen."
According to Stuckey, the foul smell can be blamed on algae which is commonly found in the city's reservoir.
The city administrator said Franklin is working to combat against the increase in algae this year.
"We put in some additional carbon in our treatment process to try and address the algae we're experiencing," he explained.
The added carbon to the water at the city's treatment plant is the cause of the water's stench.
On Monday, city crews worked to flush out dozens of hydrants.
"We are going through and flushing out the system," said Stuckey, "Because right now the water coming out of our plants seems to be fine and doesn't have this issue, but some got in the system earlier, so it stays in the system until we flush it out."
Neighbors, Tracy Cheek and Jodi Stout told Nashville's News 2 the smell of the water has not gone unnoticed during the last week.
"Usually I'm not picky, I'll drink it, but I definitely tasted something weird in the coffee," said Cheek.
Stout added, "It's not good. You don't want to drink it, and you're cooking and boiling water for your pasta, and you think twice, maybe I can make something else."
Both women said despite the odor, their families have continued using the water.
Stuckey said that's what everyone should be doing, because despite the smell, the water is completely safe to use.
Stuckey added the smell should be gone within the next few days.
The city of Franklin estimates about 2,700 residents' water is affected.
