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City reports progress on lead service-line replacements, first state drawdowns received
Summary
City staff reported verification and replacement numbers for lead service lines, described contractor operations and said the city received its initial state reimbursement for the program.
Ryan Schmitz and water staff updated the council on the city’s lead service‑line replacement program and the broader water capital plan on Aug. 12.
Schmitz and staff said field verification of private lead services has confirmed 736 services examined and 450 determined to be lead (roughly 61 percent confirmation rate). Of those verified lead services, 147 have been replaced to date; staff said contractor capacity now allows replacement rates they estimate could reach about 15 services per week under full effort. The city has programmed $4.5 million in state lead‑service funding and reported its first state reimbursement draw of about $640,000 with another draw expected as replacements proceed.
The water budget includes distribution upgrades timed to street work (Locust) and well‑house improvements including variable‑frequency drives for high‑pressure pumps; staff also highlighted the elevated storage tank and ongoing operational and capital planning. Schmitz said water remains among lower‑cost utilities in the state but will likely need continued rate‑study work in coming years to sustain longer‑term capital needs.
Council members praised crews working on lead‑service replacements and asked about discovery follow‑up and scheduling; staff said discovery has moved faster than replacement so crews are being redirected based on phased needs. No vote was taken at the presentation.
