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Council orders city to address mold in Lowell Police Department holding cells after member inspection
Summary
Council referred a motion requiring the city manager to correct mold growing from vents over the Lowell Police Department holding cells; staff said a leaking copper pipe will be replaced and vents cleaned as scheduled work.
The Lowell City Council on Jan. 14 voted to direct the city manager to have the proper department correct mold growth observed in ceiling vents over holding cells at the Lowell Police Department.
Council member Hasheer (recorded in the minutes as requesting action) presented photos and described black mold in ceiling vents over holding cells, saying the condition posed a health and safety concern for staff and detainees. The council referred the matter to the city manager for timely correction.
Assistant City Manager Machado (and public works staff) reported to the council that a leaking copper pipe near an eyewash station would be replaced on Saturday and that vents and affected areas would be cleaned; the chief said repairs and prior tile work had been conducted over multiple years and that foundation cracks and an aging building contributed to the recurring problem.
Why it matters: Mold in detention and staff areas raises immediate health and safety concerns for employees and detainees and can trigger the need for remediation and building maintenance work.
Next steps: City maintenance staff will replace the leaking pipe and clean vents; administration will follow up with the council on completion and any further remedial actions.
