Charlotte Harbor residents struggle with strong odor from water treatment project

CHARLOTTE HARBOR, Fla. —

Residents in Charlotte Harbor are enduring a strong and unpleasant smell that has persisted for weeks, stemming from a water treatment facility flushing process.

"It's a chemical sewage smell, and I can't even keep my windows open because that smell just permeates the house," said Dorothy Milliken, a resident of Melbourne Street.

Milliken, who reached out after dealing with the odor for two weeks, described the experience as overwhelming. "I can smell it now through this mask," she said.

Another resident, Melody Barnhart, shared her frustration, saying, "Dead fish and burnt rubber together, maybe. I mean, it's horrific. We've lived here for 40 years. I've never smelled anything like it."

Barnhart added that the only way to escape the smell is "to leave the neighborhood for a while."

The odor is concentrated around Charlotte Harbor, just north of the Peace River Bridge. Residents have speculated about its source, with Milliken suggesting, "I think it's from the construction that they're doing."

A fire hydrant pumping out water and a nearby construction site were observed in the area. The Charlotte Harbor Water Association confirmed that the smell is due to their ongoing project to flush out water for the water treatment facility.

They assured residents that the project is nearing completion and aims to improve water quality. For now, neighbors are hoping for relief as the smell continues to linger.

DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.