This story was produced in partnership with the Pulitzer Center. It is part three in a four-part series. Read part one here and part two here.

ODESSA, Texas — For retired pastor Columbus Cooper, life can be divided into two periods: the time when he could still drink water out of his tap, and the time after. When Cooper first moved to Odessa in the 1980s, the water was clean and safe to drink. But over the years, the water quality deteriorated, leaving residents like Cooper with contaminated water that is not fit for consumption.

Cooper is just one of the many residents in Odessa who have been affected by the water crisis. The city’s water supply has been contaminated with unsafe levels of chemicals and heavy metals, leaving residents with no choice but to rely on bottled water for drinking and cooking. This has not only caused inconvenience for the residents, but also added financial burden to their already tight budgets.

The root of the problem lies in the city’s aging water infrastructure. The pipes that carry the water to homes and businesses are old and corroded, allowing contaminants to seep into the water supply. The city has been aware of this issue for years, but has failed to take significant action to address it.

But thanks to the efforts of organizations like the Pulitzer Center, the issue has gained national attention. The Center has been working alongside local activists and residents to bring awareness to the water crisis in Odessa. Through their reporting and research, they have shed light on the dire situation and pushed for accountability and change.

In part one of this series, we learned about the history of the water crisis in Odessa and how it has affected the community. In part two, we explored the health implications of drinking contaminated water and the struggles that residents face on a daily basis. In this third part, we will take a closer look at the efforts being made to address the issue and the impact it has had on the community.

One of the key players in the fight for clean water in Odessa is retired pastor Columbus Cooper. Despite being in his 80s, Cooper has been a vocal advocate for the community, using his voice and platform to demand action from city officials. He has organized protests, spoken at town hall meetings, and even traveled to Washington D.C. to bring attention to the issue.

Cooper’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In fact, they have inspired others in the community to also speak up and demand change. This has created a strong and united front that is determined to hold city officials accountable for the water crisis.

The Pulitzer Center has also been working tirelessly to bring attention to the issue and push for change. Through their reporting, they have highlighted the human impact of the water crisis and the urgent need for action. They have also provided resources and support to local activists and residents, helping them amplify their voices and demand justice.

As a result of these efforts, the city has finally begun to take action. In 2019, the city council approved a $95 million bond to replace and repair the aging water infrastructure. This is a step in the right direction, but it is just the beginning. The city must continue to prioritize and invest in the necessary upgrades to ensure that the water is safe for all residents.

The impact of the water crisis in Odessa goes beyond just the physical and financial burden on the community. It has also taken a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of residents. Many have lost trust in their local government and feel neglected and forgotten. But the efforts of Cooper, the Pulitzer Center, and other activists have given them hope and a sense of empowerment.

As we come to the end of this series, it is important to remember that this is not just a story about a water crisis in a small town. It is a story about the power of community, resilience, and the importance of speaking up for what is right. The residents of Odessa have shown that when they come together and demand change, they can make a difference.

In part four of this series, we will take a look at the progress that has been made since the bond was approved and the future of the city’s water supply. But for now, let us celebrate the efforts of those who have fought tirelessly for clean water in Odessa and continue to push for a better future for all residents.