CHARITON— Following a recent hearing, a judge revoked two drinking water certifications for Duane Covington, the former superintendent of the Chariton Water Works.
Covington, superintendent since October 2013, did not appeal the decision. Because he had no previous disciplinary action on his record, the judge’s order allows Covington to re-apply for certification after two years.
In the hearing, the judge found that Covington committed willful or repeated violations of the regulations governing water treatment plants, and failed to exercise reasonable care and judgement as operator in charge of the plant. The judge also found that Covington failed to submit complete and accurate reports to the Iowa DNR, and in two instances, submitted reports to the DNR that were deliberately misleading. The violations took place from October 2013 to February 2016.
The judge revoked Covington’s Grade III Drinking Water Treatment Certificate and a Grade IV Drinking Water Distribution Certificate.
In addition, the Chariton Municipal Water Works Board entered into a consent order with the DNR to address violations of the board’s water supply operation permit. The board agreed to pay a $10,000 penalty and comply with all conditions of its permit.