Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Infrastructure Water topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sandusky advances ordinance to replace lead and galvanized water service lines
Summary
The Sandusky City Commission moved to adopt an ordinance directing replacement and certification of lead and galvanized water service lines, citing EPA timelines and grant support; commissioners approved the motion and set certification triggers tied to property sales and major reinvestments.
The Sandusky City Commission advanced an ordinance directing the replacement of lead and galvanized water service lines and establishing certification requirements intended to reduce public-health risks.
Miss Myers presented the ordinance, which amends Title 3 (Utilities), Chapter 9.39 and adds sections 9.39.5–9.39.58 to the codified ordinances. The measure would require property owners to certify service lines are lead-safe at certain transfer events and when more than $30,000 is invested in a property, while providing grant funding options for qualifying homeowners.
During discussion a commissioner who reviewed federal guidance said the Environmental Protection Agency has required municipalities to take steps toward eliminating all lead pipe service lines over roughly the next nine years and described the measure as consistent with that timeline. "The requirement is that all the pipes be removed over the course of the 9 years," the commissioner said, framing the ordinance as a public-health approach that also contains provisions for grant assistance.
Staff explained the city treats water "service lines" as the private lateral from the water main to a residence and distinguishes that from sewer laterals. The ordinance includes language clarifying which portions the city has taken on responsibility for and which remain the property owner’s technical responsibility.
The motion to adopt the ordinance under suspension of the rules was moved and seconded and approved by roll-call vote. The commission stated the ordinance will return for an additional reading as required by the charter. The measure as presented sets certification triggers at the time of sale and on major reinvestment, and includes a grant program targeted to eligible homeowners to lower financial barriers to replacement.
What happens next: the ordinance will be returned for follow-up in the commission’s process; staff and commissioners noted available federal and grant funding sources are intended to reduce homeowner costs as the city moves toward compliance with federal expectations.
