Checking back in with Gilmer Park residents

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The St. Joseph County Health Department held a meeting Wednesday, outlining their findings so far on the water quality within the county.

Back in May, the health department announced they found human feces in the wells of residents who live in Gilmer Park.

Wednesday, the health department got the green light to continue with their testing in efforts to find a solution.

But residents in Gilmer Park are still standing their ground saying they don't want the city's help. They believe their water is just fine.

Cheryl Hatfield has gathered over 100 signatures from people who don't want to be put on city water.

“I'm going to keep talking to people and keep spreading the word until the city backs down," says Hatfield.

Marc Nelson of the St. Joseph County Health Department spearheaded Wednesday's meeting and says the community just needs to be educated more on what's happening.

"We are going to have get out to the community and explain to them that their septic system is their own sewage treatment plant in their backyard," says Nelson.

He says the health department is not going to demand anything. He says whatever the solution is, it will be agreed upon by the residents.

The Health Department will meet again next month to talk about more solutions. They say if you're worried about your water, you should call them. They can find out if you're in a high-risk area or not.

St. Joseph County Health Department: (574) 235-9750