Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance authorizes the Director of Public Utilities to enter into an annual cooperative agreement with the Columbus Health Department for the Division Water. This ordinance is to provide funding for the Lead-Safe Columbus Program (LSCP).
In 1991, the EPA enacted the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The LCR requires tap water testing and replacement of lead service lines (water lines) at residences that exceed the action level. Project XL is a national pilot program that allows local governments to work with the EPA to develop strategies for achieving environmental and public health protection. In exchange, the EPA will provide flexibility with implementation of these strategies. The LSCP will enable the Division of Water regulatory flexibility in compliance with the Lead and Copper Rule. The program was designed to run for fifteen years. The Columbus Division of Water, with City Council and City Auditor approval has contributed $300,000.00 per year since 2001. The project will conclude in 2016.
FISCAL IMPACT: This is an annual expenditure and the Division of Water has allocated $300,000.00 for this project in the 2014 budget.
$ 300,000.00 was spent for this project in 2012.
$ 300,000.00 was spent for this project in 2013.
Title
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a cooperative agreement with the Columbus Health Department, for participation in the Lead-Safe Columbus Program, for the Division of Water, and to authorize the expenditure of $300,000.00 from the Water System Operating Fund. ($300,000.00)
Body
WHEREAS, the EPA enacted the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) which requires tap water testing and replacement of lead service lines (water lines) at residences that exceed the action level; and
WHEREAS, under Project XL the EPA will provide flexibility in meeting the LCR compliance; and
WHEREAS, the Division of Water would like to enter into a coopera...
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