NDEE says investigation into Columbus sewer smell continues, despite no longer receiving complaints

COLUMBUS - The Nebraska Department of Environmental Energy said the investigation into a strong sewer stench many Columbus residents had complained about continues.

NDEE said it hasn't gotten any more complaints from residents about the mysterious smell since October.

It was during that time when around 50 residents of southeast Columbus showed up to a city council hearing complaining of the stench they said had been prominent in their neighborhood for more than a year.  Some were concerned it may be harmful.

Columbus Public Works said its investigations indicated nothing harmful at the time and that it suspected the odor to be coming from one of the industries in the east sewer basin.

On Wednesday, NDEE told News Channel Nebraska the state has taken no action against any industry or business and that because its own investigation into the issue continues, it won't say if it found who was responsible for the odor.

NDEE encourages residents to reach out to its department if they have any further complaints regarding this by calling (402) 910-8898.