Jackson, Mississippi, water crisis impacts businesses

Jackson, MS – People in Jackson, Mississippi, are going on week two without one basic human necessity: clean drinking water.

Now, business owners claim they are suffering as well.

Lutaya Steward owns Children’s Edcuare of Jackson. She claims that her problems with the city’s water system began many years ago.

A Jackson, Mississippi preschool teacher continues to teach despite the fact that there is no clean water for students.
(Joy Addison/Fox News)

“We’ve been on a boiled water notice for six weeks” Stewart said.

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After three days closed, her daycare is now back open because water pressure has been restored. However, water is not safe to drink.

” We are trying to help our parents. We’re charging them. Stewart stated that they charge them because they are able to provide the service.

Stewart said the City of Jackson has had water issues long before the Pearl River flooded on Monday, August 29th, damaging the city’s water system.

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One February 2020 Mississippi State Department of Health report cites a three out of five rating for drinking water inspections and 16 violations.

One 2020 water system inspection report cites a three out of five overall rating for inspection of drinking water supply.
(Joy Addison/Fox News)

One note says the severity of the deficiencies from the report should require weekly operating reports until all repairs are made.

A report from an inspection states that close monitoring is required due to the severe water system deficiencies.
(Joy Addison/Fox News)

Stewart said she hopes the federal and local government understand how much of a toll the current situation is taking on businesses. You’re paying a water bill first of all for water you don’t even need. Stewart stated that we are still required to purchase water.

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She also considers the additional toll on parents as they deal with the contaminated water at home. Some residents have been told by a Mississippi Department of Health Director to shower with their mouths closed.

Jackson residents can visit a water donation site to get water.
(Joy Addison/Fox News)

“It has been a struggle trying to maintain the health and safety of our staff, the children, and also just being concerned when they leave. What do you know? What are they doing at home? Stewart stated.

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Though the restored water pressure solves the issue of flushing toilets, officials say they’re not sure how long residents in Jackson will have to boil their water before consuming. Officials from the Health Department stated that the contaminated water is unsafe for pets.