Fort Atkinson council gives first reading to lead service line replacement ordinance

Fort Atkinson City Council on Sept. 2 performed a first reading of an ordinance to create municipal authority for full replacement of lead service lines on both public and private sides and directed the city manager to prepare the ordinance for second and possible third and final reading at the Sept. 16, 2025 council meeting.

Director Neven told the council the City must complete a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources–approved lead service line replacement plan and that “the intent and purpose of the ordinance is to create a legal authority for full replacement of lead service lines on the public and private side to ensure full compliance with state and federal requirements for the program.” The ordinance, Neven said, will allow the city to apply for funding and offer low‑interest loans for private‑side replacements.

The ordinance as presented would authorize the city to discontinue water service to properties whose owners refuse to replace a private‑side lead service line when replacement is required under the program. Neven cited the PSC reference included in the staff report, and said staff expects to finish the inspection of all service lines and file an intent to apply with the DNR by Oct. 31, 2025. He estimated that the application to the DNR would be due in spring or early summer of the following year and that the earliest construction would be in 2027.

Council members voted to direct the city manager to prepare the ordinance for further readings on Sept. 16. The motion carried on a voice vote.

The ordinance packet noted there will be no costs to property owners or the city until the city’s lead service line program is approved and construction begins; staff said funding opportunities would be pursued to offset replacement costs.