During a recent government meeting, the Council discussed proposed amendments to the lead poisoning prevention ordinance, known as Introductory 210. The amendments aim to align local regulations with updated standards from the New York State Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Claire Henry, the new program director for the Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning, presented the coalition's support for the changes. She highlighted that the EPA's dust wipe clearance levels have been revised since the original ordinance was enacted nearly two decades ago. The proposed amendments would introduce a dust wipe requirement for open porches, which are often overlooked but can harbor significant lead levels, posing risks to children who play there.

Henry emphasized the ongoing threat of lead poisoning in Rochester, citing data from 2020 that revealed at least 100 children with elevated blood lead levels. She urged the Council to adopt the amendments to enhance public health protections and access new funding opportunities, reinforcing Rochester's status as a national leader in lead poisoning prevention.

The Council members engaged in a brief question-and-answer session following Henry's presentation, indicating a collaborative approach to addressing this critical public health issue. The proposed changes are expected to be passed, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding the health of the community's children.