Council Contexts: Mandatory Lead Service Line Replacement Policy
As part of our ongoing infrastructure renewal projects, Town Council has adopted a policy requiring the replacement of any lead water service lines discovered during construction activities.
This decision was not made lightly, but it is one we believe is necessary to protect the health and safety of our residents, both today and for future generations.
Lead was commonly used in older water service lines. While many of these pipes have been replaced over the years, some still remain underground. Health authorities have long recognized that exposure to lead can pose serious health risks, particularly for infants, children, and pregnant women. Even low levels of lead exposure have been linked to developmental, neurological, and other long-term health concerns.
When construction projects uncover lead infrastructure, replacing it immediately is often the safest, most cost-effective, and responsible course of action. Leaving lead pipes in place can increase future risks, create additional costs when roads and utilities must be disturbed again, and expose both property owners and the Town to potential liability should water quality concerns arise.
Under this policy, property owners are responsible for the cost of replacing their side of the lead water line. We know this is a large, unexpected expense. To help, Council is offering a payment plan, so residents don't have to take out a high-interest bank loan. Residents can choose to have the cost added to their annual property taxes and pay it off over seven years. The interest rate will be locked in at a low, fixed borrowing rate. Many municipalities use similar programs to lessen the financial burden of lead line replacement.
By replacing lead services when they are discovered, Council is taking a proactive approach that will:
- Protect public health and drinking water quality.
- Reduce long-term risks associated with aging infrastructure.
- Prevent future disruptions and additional construction costs.
- Ensure our water system meets modern standards and expectations.
- Help safeguard residents and the Town from future liability.
- Improve the reliability and value of our community’s infrastructure.
We understand that infrastructure projects can create challenges and unexpected expenses. However, when lead service lines are identified, delaying replacement only increases the likelihood of higher costs and greater risks in the future. By addressing these issues during planned construction projects, we can complete the work more efficiently while minimizing future disruptions to residents.
Council remains committed to making decisions that prioritize public safety, responsible asset management, and the long-term sustainability of our community.
Safe drinking water is one of the most important services a municipality provides, and replacing lead infrastructure is an important investment in the future of Gravelbourg.