Langley’s sometimes not-so-clear water had one resident before the city council Monday saying enough was enough.

“I don’t know what can be done but I’m kind of fed up with it,” said Monica Guzman, holding up a jar of dirty water as evidence of the problem.

Guzman requested that city workers notify the public before pipes are flushed so residents won’t be caught by surprise and use the dirty water by accident.

Guzman said it’s happened to her several times and that she’s unknowingly washed clothes in it. Other times it’s filled her water heater and forced her to dump up to 50 gallons of water, she said.

“On top of that I have to pay for the 50 gallons,” Guzman said.

City officials were sympathetic, saying some notice is given but site conditions can make for unpredictable surprises.

“We’re doing the best we can,” said Maria Cablao, Langley’s public works director.

Mayor Fred McCarthy added that the water is not unsafe, that the color is from heavy metals such as manganese and iron. He acknowledged it’s a common complaint of residents, however, and promised to make improvements in public notification.

“It’s a legitimate concern and we’ll address it as a group,” McCarthy said.