Ramsey introduces ordinance requiring lead water-service-line replacement, offers homeowner payment

Council members on Aug. 27 introduced Ordinance 18-2025, a code amendment establishing a borough program for lead water-service-line replacement and defining cost responsibility between the municipality and property owners.

Borough officials said the measure implements the state mandate requiring removal of known lead or galvanized service lines by 2031 and delineates that the borough will pay for the portion of the service line it owns (from the water main to the curb stop), while the property owner is responsible for the portion from the curb stop to the meter. The ordinance provides a $750 payment to property owners who complete replacement within the earlier of 270 days after adoption or 180 days after being notified that their line requires replacement; the ordinance also specifies documentation requirements, including certification by the borough plumbing inspector that the private portion was removed.

The ordinance passed first reading by title and was scheduled for final consideration at the council’s Sept. 10 meeting. Council members described the measure as a compliance item intended to reduce out-of-pocket costs for residents while ensuring the borough meets the state timeline.

Council discussions leading up to the introduction referenced ongoing Board of Public Works planning and that the borough has pursued low-interest loan options for infrastructure projects. No public comment occurred during the introduction.

Next steps: Ordinance 18-2025 will be published as required and returned for final reading and potential adoption at the next regular meeting on Sept. 10, 2025.