*Editor’s note: The smell in Madill is such a hot-button topic that two reporters wrote about it from different angles. One focused on the city’s angle and one focused on the residents’ worries.
A routine meeting of the Madill City Council on Monday night turned its focus to a hot button topic: the persistent odor that has drawn complaints from residents across parts of the city. Citizens addressed the council during public comment, describing what they called a strong smell that has lingered in certain neighborhoods at various times over the past several weeks.
Some residents said the odor has been noticeable in the evenings, while others reported catching it early in the morning. Council members acknowledged the concerns and said they have been in communication with city staff to determine the source. Officials noted that environmental factors such as temperature changes and wind patterns can intensify odors, particularly around wastewater infrastructure.
While no definitive cause was identified during the meeting, city leaders emphasized that the issue is being taken seriously. The discussion shifted toward what officials described as a proactive step to improve communication and gather more input from residents.
Beginning with the upcoming water department billing cycle, customers will find a printed survey included with their monthly statement. The survey is designed to collect feedback not only about the recent odor complaints but also about overall satisfaction with the city’s water and wastewater services.
City representatives said the survey will ask residents to share when and where they have noticed the smell, how frequently it occurs and whether they have other concerns related to water quality or utility services. Officials said they believe the information could help pinpoint patterns and assist staff in determining possible causes.
Council members encouraged residents to participate, stressing that the success of the effort will depend on broad community involvement. Surveys can be returned with payment or dropped off at City Hall, according to staff.
In addition to addressing the odor concerns, the council briefly reviewed routine agenda items before adjourning. However, it was clear that the smell, and the city’s response,remainstopofmind for both residents and local officials. City leaders said they expect preliminary feedback from the water bill survey to be discussed at a future meeting, withupdatestobeshared publicly as more information becomes available.
By Zae Garrett
The Madill City Council and Public Works Authority held their regular meetings on Feb. 10, 2026, discussing various topics, including local improvements and pressing concerns.
Among the improvements discussed were the installation of a new traffic light at Smiley Road, enhancements to City Lake Park, replacement of tables and benches at the city pool, new carpeting in the Madill City Library and scheduling for trash pickups along highways and main roads.
However, the meetings also addressed issues, notably the lack of consistent meetings from the planning and zoning committee and, more prominently, the lingering smell that has plagued Madill for years and is reportedly worsening. Resident Jenny Chafin presented findings from her research, including a survey posted online Jan. 23, which has garnered 84 responses and that number is growing.
Many residents replied to Chafin’s social media posts lamenting about the smell permeating through town.
“The smell is absolutely sickening tonight when driving through town but was worse by drew St/Hobo Joes. Literally made me sick,” one resident posted.
“The smell is horrendous! Makes people want to throw up,” another resident responded. It has been smelling this way way too long! I’m afraid its toxic and could be making people sickly. It needs to be taken care of soon.”
“I almost had to pull my car over to puke! It made my head and stomach hurt bad,” another resident chimed in.
Additionally, within the survey Madill, residents are asked where they have reported smelling it; “North end (by Sonic)” was selected mostoverallwith51individuals selecting it.
The city has been working on upgrading the Waste Water Treatment Plant, a process requiring time and communication. Updates will be provided monthly as more information becomes available.
The community is encouraged to continue discussing and communicating with city officials to address these issues and work toward a better Madill.