Water Utility Workers Fired for Drinking, Swimming on the Job

Several employees (including an interim general manager) at a municipal water treatment facility outside of Austin, Texas, were fired recently for drinking alcohol at work and for swimming in a pond that is part of the treatment plant.

According to a report from local television station KXAN, five people from the Brushy Creek Municipal Utility District are accused of consuming alcohol during an after-hours party on June 10, following an open house to dedicate the water treatment facility. Reportedly, the workers then decided to go for a swim. The area’s drinking water supply was not affected.

The Brushy Creek Municipal Utility District supplies water to about 4,500 residences between Austin and Round Rock, Texas.