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ALBANY, GA. -- Findings from a study conducted by TTL Inc. shows that Lee County wells located up-gradient, side-gradient or across the Muckalee Creek from the Lee County landfill are not anticipated to be impacted by contaminants.

Residents who live within a half mile radius of the landfill and are still concerned with water contamination are asked to have their water tested.

“Everyone that has a situation where he is faced with heavy rain or high water should call the Lee County Environmental Health and they will be glad to test your water,” said Lee County Commission Chairman Ed Duffy.

A copy of the complete landfill assessment will be left at the Lee County Library for public review.

While commissioners warned residents of possible water contamination, they also revealed a safety device that will help firefighters. The new air systems have already been put to use.

“They did use them in the Smithville fire and they held up and worked like a charm with no problems what so ever,” said Lee Count Asst. Fire Chief Paul Branch.

The new devices can hold 50 percent more air than previous tanks and they're two pounds lighter.

Fire officials say what makes this item different is a safety feature called dual redundant back up.

“The valve system is designed to where if one of them stops up, another one will continue to let air flow where a fireman can breathe in an oxygen efficient atmosphere,” said Branch.

Lee County residents were given an opportunity to voice concerns about the landfill assessment and other issues pending on the board.

One resident stepped forward and accused the board of operating under the “Good Ole Boy” system. He said the board passed a garbage tax without considering the pockets or concerns from Lee County residents.

During the meeting, commissioner Dennis Roland brought up a proposition for changes to the garbage collection procedure. He suggested that instead of passing a garbage tax, residents should pay an upfront fee of $100.

Ed Duffy would not comment on the garbage tax. He says within 45 days the board expects to receive a final ruling from the Supreme Court about the issue.