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City administrator warns of 2027 lead‑service-line removal deadline and costs
Summary
City Administrator Mogus told the council Wakefield must inventory and begin removing lead service lines by Nov. 2027 at a pace of 10% per year, with the city responsible for 100% of removal costs; he urged starting early to spread expenses.
City Administrator Mogus informed the Wakefield City Council on Jan. 14 that under the Lead & Copper Rule municipalities must compile an inventory and begin removing lead service lines, lead connectors and certain galvanized pipes by Nov. 2027. Mogus said the rule requires removal at a pace of about 10% per year and that Wakefield would be responsible for 100% of removal costs unless other funding becomes available, so he is recommending the city begin the inventory process early to spread costs over multiple years.
Mogus also reported operational updates: Utility Foreman Buck has contacted a vendor about a pool leak near Nemo, and Skymer did not show up to repair a solar streetlight at 9th & Birch; Mogus said he will allow more time for Skymer to complete the repair before seeking an alternate vendor.
Mogus framed the inventory as a multi‑year, resource‑intense task tied to regulatory compliance. The minutes do not record a formal council direction or vote on a specific inventory contract or funding plan at the Jan. 14 meeting. Staff and council will need to consider budgeting, potential grant or state funding sources, and a work plan to meet the Nov. 2027 compliance date.
