Hastings proactive in lead service replacement

The City of Hastings utility department is currently notifying residents whose properties may have lead in their water service lines.

Hastings Utilities is working to identify service line materials throughout the water system. Part of that identification process is notifying residents whose homes may have lead service lines, galvanized service lines that may have absorbed lead or unknown service line material.
Notifications were mailed to applicable residences on Friday, Nov. 8.

For material verification questions or to schedule an appointment for service line material verification, call (402) 462-3621.

Hastings Utilities has taken a proactive approach to the replacement of lead service lines, which includes ownership of lead water services in the city and a 10-year plan to remove these lines from service. This puts Hastings in a good position in addressing a recent ruling from the Environmental Protection Agency.

According to a final revision of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, announced on Oct. 8, drinking water systems across the country are required to identify and replace all lead water services within 10 years. 

A two-person crew was hired in 2022 with the exclusive purpose of lead water service replacement.

According to frequent testing, City of Hastings water lead levels fall within the new mandate of 10 parts per billion, which is more stringent under the final revision of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements. The previous mandate was 15 ppb.

The service line replacement is paid for by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy through a $2 million state revolving fund loan. 

All of the work will be paid through that amount until 62% of the $2 million is reached. The rest of the amount will be paid back through a 30-year, 0% interest loan.   

Published Date: 11/ 8/2024

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