DECATUR — Adams County health officials are reviewing a wastewater concern discovered during a recent bridge inspection, according to discussion at the May 6, 2026 meeting of the county commissioners.
Health Department Director Joe Rakoczy said he was contacted several weeks earlier about dark material observed near a bridge. Rakoczy visited the site, collected a water sample and sent it to the Indiana State Department of Health laboratory for routine testing.
Rakoczy told commissioners the results showed elevated bacteria levels. The department plans to notify nearby property owners and begin with a voluntary dye test to help determine the source. If the issue is confirmed, the affected property would be required to install a permitted septic system.
Rakoczy said the department can pursue enforcement if needed, but the initial steps will focus on cooperation and verification.
Commissioners also discussed staffing needs within the health department, noting that additional environmental support could help with follow‑up on similar cases.
Officials did not issue a public advisory and did not report any immediate risk to residents.
No further details were available. This story will be updated as more information is released.