City Discusses Lead Water Lines and Meter Upgrades in Recent Infrastructure Meeting

Mayfield Heights City Council has taken significant steps to address water service connections and the potential presence of lead in the community's water supply. During the recent council meeting on August 4, 2025, officials discussed the dual aspects of water service connections: the city side, which extends from the water main to the shutoff valve, and the owner side, which runs from the tree lawn into individual homes.

City representatives emphasized the importance of accurately identifying lead connections, particularly those installed before 1950, as part of an ongoing lead program. They noted that if the city lacks specific information about a connection, it must assume the presence of lead. The council is committed to excavating areas to verify the materials used in both sides of the connection, ensuring the safety and health of residents.

In response to a question about the scoring system used to assess water lines, officials clarified that while there is no formal appeal process for scoring disputes, there are provisions for emergency situations where frequent breaks in a water main necessitate immediate action. The council expressed openness to revisiting the criteria used for these assessments if there is interest from suburban communities.

Additionally, discussions touched on the status of water meters and fire hydrants. The city has been implementing an automatic meter reading program since 2013, replacing older meters to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Residents were informed that meters older than ten years were fully replaced, while newer meters were retrofitted to comply with the new system.

These discussions highlight the council's proactive approach to maintaining water infrastructure and ensuring public health, with ongoing efforts to keep the community informed and engaged in these critical issues. As the city moves forward, residents can expect continued updates on the progress of these initiatives and their implications for local water safety.