Township explains water cross-connection survey and reports progress replacing lead service lines

Township staff briefed the board Oct. 27 on a state-required cross-connection survey and recent lead sampling results.

The cross-connection survey asks residents whether their properties have features that present a backflow risk — for example irrigation systems, pools with auto-fillers, or sump pumps tied to the municipal water supply — and whether a backflow-prevention device is installed. Staff said the township is mailing coded surveys and urged residents to respond; if a resident does not respond, the township will arrange an on-site inspection by a contracted company, which could generate out-of-pocket costs for the resident.

Staff also explained results from the township’s lead sampling program. Samples identified elevated lead readings at six homes; those locations have had lead service lines replaced. The township has identified roughly 33 properties with lead service lines and said it plans to replace them on a multi-phase schedule; the staff reported that the township will step up sampling frequency and expand the sampling pool (from 30 to about 60 homes) because of the elevated readings as required by state rules.

Why it matters: Lead service lines and cross-connection vulnerabilities pose risks to drinking-water quality. The township urged residents to respond to the mailed survey and offered to enroll interested households in sampling programs.

Practical advice: Staff said homeowners can buy point-of-use filters for drinking water, and residents concerned about testing can contact the township to volunteer for the sampling program; the township intends to publish more details and outreach in the November newsletter.