Water Testing Shows Nine Samples With Lead

Nine of 40 sample locations in the latest round of drinking water tests conducted by Trenton Municipal Utilities were above the Environmental Protection Agency’s action level of 15 parts per billion for lead in drinking water, according to information released by TMU.
City Administrator/Utility Director Ron Urton said that the remaining 31 sample locations were below the action level. The samples were collected in late July and early August from 40 “Tier One” locations as part of the city’s effort to monitor lead levels in the drinking water. The locations from which samples are taken are areas in which lead service lines are known to exist, which Urton said are at a higher probability for the potential release of lead into the drinking water.
During the prior testing period, four of the 40 samples were above the EPA action levels. All tested locations have been notified of test results.
“It is not unusual to see test results vary from one testing period to another,” Urton said. “We hope to see levels come down over the next six to 12 months as the treatment process that will be implemented in November starts to have a positive impact on lead service lines located on private properties.”
TMU is in the process of cleaning the distribution system to prepare for the introduction of the treatment process. The process will assist in establishing additional protections from lead entering the water at those residences with lead service lines. These actions may temporarily change the color, taste and smell coming from the water tap.
TMU encourages customers to review the simple tips included in their upcoming utility bill to learn how they can reduce their risk of exposure to lead. Those tips include flushing water taps for one to two minutes before using the water for drinking or cooking, purchasing a home treatment device or using bottled water for cooking or drinking.
A water quality hotline has also been established by the city for customers to call if they have questions or concerns regarding this issue. The number is 660-234-9172.