CLAY COUNTY THEFT OF PUBLIC WATER CAUSING PROBLEMS

(10/24/2020)
Residents in Clay County have recently noticed locks on fire hydrants, caused by a theft problem of water around the district.

Some residents raised concerns about how quickly firefighters would be able to get water in an emergency, but keys were given to the fire departments. Officials said people were stealing thousands of gallons of water.

"We locked them due to water theft,” Clay County Public Service District Chief Operator Joe Young said. “We have a lot of individuals and companies stealing water."

All 100 hydrants in the county are to to be locked.

"It could end up being higher water prices if we don't get this under control,” Young said.