City responds to aquatic center bacteria inquiries

WILLMAR -- The city of Willmar issued a statement today saying there are no health concerns at either Dorothy Olson Aquatic Center or the Rice Park Wading Pool and that all water quality tests are at acceptable levels.

The statement said the city and Willmar Community Education & Recreation have received numerous inquiries about the water quality and water born bacteria at the aquatic center.

"We have been in communication with the health care providers and the Kandiyohi County Department of Public Health regarding these concerns,'' the statement said. "There are no health concerns at either DOAC or the Rice Park Wading Pool and all water quality tests are at acceptable levels.''

The statement said the city and CER take the health of patrons seriously.

"The city of Willmar and CER monitor and test both facilities on a daily basis and have established protocols in place for any issues that arise. We will continue to take the steps necessary to provide safe facilities for our community. Our facilities will be open today at their regular times,'' the statement said.