GEORGETOWN, S.C. (From news reports) -- A process malfunction at the Georgetown paper mill caused by freezing temperatures spread a sulfur odor through the city, officials said Tuesday.

International Paper Company officials told Mayor Carol Jayroe in a statement that cold weather caused equipment issues in a piping system used for pulping condensate, the liquid byproduct from the pulping process.

"When the system was repressurized, a limited amount of condensate was released," the company's statement said. "Although the condensate created a sulfur odor, its concentrations were much lower than the levels that would be associated with health impacts."

The piping system has since been repaired, and officials have said there are no health threats to the city's residents or the environment.

The company announced plans last year to shutter the plant, and leaders have been working since then to provide support to workers and other businesses in the community affected by the shutdown.

"The mill is continuing to work through the mill closure and cleaning process," the statement continued. "The safety of our teammates, the community, and the environment is our priority."

The mayor's office said officials will continue to monitor the situation.