Number
170523
Version
SUBSTITUTE 1
Reference
160438
Sponsor
ALD. BOHL
Title
Substitute resolution directing Milwaukee Water Works to provide semi-annual inserts with water bills containing information on lead-in-water safety.
Analysis
This resolution directs Milwaukee Water Works to provide semi-annual public education materials with water bills containing information regarding lead-in-water safety pursuant to Water Quality Task Force recommendations.
Body
Whereas, The Water Quality Task Force was established by Common Council Resolution File Number 160438 on July 26, 2016; and
Whereas, The Task Force was charged with exploring the problem of lead in the City’s drinking-water infrastructure and with investigating and making recommendations regarding additional ways to ensure the long-term health and safety of Milwaukee’s drinking water; and
Whereas, The Task Force recommended that Milwaukee Water Works incorporate lead-in-water and general lead-related public education materials with all City water bills; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, By the Common Council of the City of Milwaukee, that Milwaukee Water Works is directed to incorporate lead-in-water and lead public education materials with all City water bills on a semi-annual basis; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the educational materials shall first be reviewed and approved by the Health Commissioner prior to distribution to ensure alignment and accuracy with Health Department messaging; and, be it
Further Resolved, That educational materials shall include information about the Health Department’s Lead Safe Milwaukee campaign or any future modified campaigns as well as information about water filtration systems and a reminder to change filter cartridges on water filter systems; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the use of lead-removing water filtration systems certified to remove lead by NSF/ANSI Standard 53 shall be promoted to the public as the most thorough means of lead-water safety; and, be it
Further Resolved, That educational materials shall also include information regarding interior plumbing as an additional source of potential lead toxicity, including concerns regarding the disturbance of lead plumbing through activities such as home remodeling projects or water main replacement; and, be it
Further Resolved, That educational materials shall include information regarding access to filters, the need for ongoing flushing of pipes, and the use of cold water for consumption; and, be it
Further Resolved, That educational materials shall include information regarding the impacts of using lead-contaminated water in mixing formula for bottle-fed infants, as well as use of lead-contaminated water by vulnerable populations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That Milwaukee Water Works shall work in conjunction with the Health Department to schedule and attend community information sessions; and, be it
Further Resolved, That Milwaukee Water Works staff shall be properly trained to disseminate timely and accurate information to the public regarding health risks and safety procedures related to lead.
Requestor
Drafter
LRB168656-2
Tea Norfolk
7/13/2017