Grace Kirchner, Leader Correspondent
Clintonville residents who have lead water lines can receive up to $2,000 to have them replaced.
The Common Council on Dec. 13 approved the subsidy based on the results of a survey of homeowners over the last two months that indicated there are about 140 city residents that have lead pipes.
After spending $10,000 last summer to apply for a Department of Natural Resources grant to help property owners replace the lead water lines on their property, the city received a $300,000 grant for the project.
According to Dave Tichinel, city water and waste water manager, the money can only be used to replace the lead pipes.
“After the money is gone, I can’t promise that there will ever be money available to the homeowners again,” Tichinel said.
Tichinel said homeowners who have not completed the survey should do so as soon as possible or contact the city to check their lines.
“I want them to be truthful about what’s in their basement because there is money available to help them now,” he said.
Tichinel said he expects the Environmental Protection Agency will eventually require all lead water lines to be replaced. The water line from the shutoff into the house is the responsibility of the homeowner.
Tichinel said he plans to hold a meeting in January to talk about the process in getting the lead lines replaced. Homeowners will be responsible for contacting one of the three licensed plumbers who are certified to do the work as part of the grant. The homeowner will work directly with the plumbers on costs and scheduling.