Fremont to fund replacement of private lead service lines with $8 million state program

The Fremont City Council approved a program to replace lead and suspected lead private water service lines across the city using a state grant/loan package, with the city covering the replacement work under the program terms.

Troy Shaben, assistant utility general manager (speaker 25), told council the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's updated rules require removal of all lead service lines and the city successfully applied for an $8 million program from Nebraska that includes roughly $5.6 million in forgivable funds and $2.4 million as a 0% loan amortized over 40 years. "The mandate is on the system, not on the homeowner," Shaben said, and staff recommended the city pay 100% of the service‑line replacement costs covered by the program to ensure equitable results.

Staff said Fremont has about 14,000 services; 746 are currently classified as known lead, galvanized/connected (treated as lead), or unknown. The utility estimates ultimately replacing 600–800 service lines at a per‑service estimated cost of $12,000–$15,000, which aligns with the approximate $8 million award. Homeowners will be asked to sign agreements allowing contractors access to private property; the program will include warranties.

Council members broadly praised the program as a public‑health action but asked staff to research resources homeowners could use to replace any remaining lead piping inside homes (inside‑premise plumbing is not covered by this program). Angie Olsen, plan administrator (speaker 23), said staff would look for additional homeowner resources and outreach strategies.

Council approved the resolution authorizing the program terms by an 8–0 vote and directed utilities staff to start bidding and public notices that will include homeowner consent forms and warranty details. Staff told council they expect initial project bidding to begin this year and to phase the work.