State reduces Jersey City lead remediation grant; city urges wider outreach to boost participation

Director Richardson presented the city’s lead remediation and abatement grant history and recent adjustments at the caucus. The state initially awarded $1.3 million, increased funds to $2 million when eligibility expanded from 1–4 unit properties to up to 10 units, and then reduced the award to $1.5 million due to lower than expected participation.

Richardson said the grant is competitive, the effective grant period extends through December 2026, and the award allows roughly 10–20% of funds for staffing with the balance for remediation work. City staff described outreach efforts — email blasts, flyers, inspections, and planned partnerships with the Board of Education — but said understaffing constrained application intake and inspections; the remediation office currently has two staff handling administration and inspections.

Councilmembers suggested low‑cost mass outreach (for example, inserting notices in quarterly tax bills) and cross‑training inspectors from other departments to increase capacity. Richardson agreed to pursue those measures and to contact the state immediately if participation rises to seek restoration of higher funding levels. Council requested updated participation numbers and any program data on childhood lead poisoning rates in Jersey City.

Next steps: Richardson will coordinate outreach steps, pursue coordination with state partners, and return to council with updated participation data and any responses from the DCA regarding potential funding adjustments.