Village addresses lead pipe replacement concerns at public meeting

During the Village Board Meeting on February 10, 2025, in Roselle, Illinois, a significant discussion emerged regarding the replacement of lead pipes, highlighting public health concerns and financial implications for the community.

A resident raised urgent issues about the presence of lead pipes in over 200 homes, emphasizing that this situation poses a serious public health risk. The resident argued that the village has a responsibility to ensure safe drinking water, especially since federal and state mandates are in place to facilitate lead pipe replacement. They suggested that the village should allocate additional funds to expedite the replacement process, proposing a cost-sharing model similar to existing programs for tree maintenance and sidewalk repairs.

In response, village officials noted that they have proactively begun replacing public lead service pipes ahead of mandated deadlines and have already made progress in addressing the issue. They highlighted that financial assistance programs are available for residents in need. However, they clarified that if homeowners choose not to replace their private lead pipes, they can sign a waiver acknowledging the risks, and there would be no water shut-off in such cases.

The officials also reassured the community about the safety of the water supply, stating that regular testing has shown no concerning results. They acknowledged the complexities involved in managing private improvements, including higher costs due to bidding requirements and prevailing wage laws.

The discussion underscored the village's commitment to addressing lead pipe issues while balancing financial constraints and regulatory requirements. As the board considers revisiting its policies on lead pipe replacement, the community remains engaged in ensuring safe drinking water for all residents.