Peekskill Residents Seek City’s Help to Fix Water Problems
Residents of a Peekskill apartment complex are reaching out again to city officials for assistance in fixing a persistent water pressure problem.
A petition signed by 108 occupants of the 123-unit Peekskill Towers on Lakeview Drive was submitted to the Peekskill Common Council last week to “do whatever needs to be done” on the 18-acre property to eliminate their water woes.
John Devine, who said he was representing the apartment dwellers, maintained some of the residents don’t have enough water pressure to take a shower.
“This is a quality of life issue,” Devine, armed with photographs and data, stressed. “We shouldn’t have to wake up in the morning and worry about being able to take a shower or go to the bathroom.”
Devine said the situation has worsened in recent months with water running out three to five times a day in May, June and July.
“That’s a problem. That’s a big problem,” he said. “Mud and dirt comes through the pipes when the pressure goes off.”
Edward Schuka, a resident of Peekskill Towers, said he was concerned about the safety of residents and first responders in the event of a fire or another emergency.
“My fear is they will be a victim instead of a rescuer,” Schuka said. “I implore the council to take action before a resident or citizen is injured or worse.”
According to Devine, a prior city manager suggested a water line needed to be extended to the building at a cost of more than $300,000. “We don’t feel that’s a fair suggestion,” he said.
Dave Rambo, Peekskill’s newly hired water superintendent, explained the city has done some water testing in the area and during high demand times there is a “big fluctuation” in the water pressure.
“There are some challenges in the system out there, and this is one of them,” Rambo said. “We need to come up with a game plan for both complexes out there.”
Peekskill Mayor Frank Catalina also vowed to help residents once it’s determined where the responsibility for the water pressure lies with the city and Peekskill Towers.
“What legal obligation the city has, the city will meet or exceed that obligation,” Catalina said.
“I think we can get it done and get you what you need,” Councilman Joe Torres added.
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