City of Elgin progresses on lead service line replacement through GLOW initiative

Elgin's commitment to eliminating lead service lines took center stage at the City Council meeting on March 26, 2025, as officials outlined significant progress and future plans for the initiative. Water Director Nora Bertram reported that since 2018, nearly 2,500 lead service lines have been replaced, with an ambitious goal of replacing over 1,000 more in 2025 alone.

Bertram emphasized that while Elgin's treated drinking water is free of lead, the city remains proactive in addressing potential risks. "We are continuing full steam ahead," she stated, highlighting the importance of community engagement and technical assistance in the ongoing efforts. The city has also distributed over 3,000 lead filter kits to residents since 2022, further supporting public health.

The meeting featured a presentation from Tiffany Reid, representing the EPA's Get the Lead Out (GLOW) initiative, which provides free technical assistance to help identify and replace lead service lines. Reid shared that the GLOW initiative has been instrumental in reviewing water sample data and engaging the community through events and educational materials. "Community engagement is central to our mission," Reid noted, as she encouraged residents to participate in upcoming events to learn more about the lead service line replacement program.

In addition to the lead service line efforts, the council approved an engineering services agreement for the Chicago Street combined sewer separation project, aimed at improving water quality in the Fox River. This project is part of a broader plan to separate combined sewer systems and reduce overflow volumes.

As Elgin continues its fight against lead service lines, officials urge residents to sign up for replacement programs and stay informed about ongoing initiatives. The collaborative efforts between the city and the EPA signal a strong commitment to ensuring safe drinking water for all residents.