The City of Dayton Department of Water is enhancing its operations as part of Dayton's continued compliance and partnership with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) and commitment to providing safe and reliable drinking water to residents and customers.

OEPA recently released rule changes and guidelines for "Water Line Repairs and Replacements in Areas with Lead Service Lines." The new regulations require the City of Dayton to notify residents or business owners 45 days before making repairs to water infrastructure that may include lead service lines.

The City of Dayton initiated a formal repair and replacement program for its water distribution system in 2013. This program involves the replacement of water distribution infrastructure including distribution mains, valves, and hydrants. The goal is to replace one percent of the distribution system on an annual basis, equating to about eight miles per year. Dayton has always replaced any lead pipes encountered within the portion of the system owned and operated by the City (the public system) as part of this improvement.

As the City's repair and replacement program continues, the 45-day notices will go to those property owners who may have existing lead water service lines within a planned project area. Only residents and business owners possibly affected by a planned water main replacement, service line replacement, or disruption in service will receive the notice and resource packet.

The packet includes:

• Lead test kit with a sample collection container
• An offer for a free water pitcher filter and replacement cartridges
• Instructions on how to flush the property's water system
• Educational brochure
•  An offer for assistance coordinating the private water service line replacement.

If a private water service line is determined to include lead, Dayton will notify the resident and offer assistance in coordinating the lead service line replacement. Any replacement costs are the responsibility of the homeowner, but Dayton will help coordinate the service line replacement with a plumber selected by the property owner.

"Hearing the word 'lead' can really be frustrating and intimidating for residents and business owners," said Michael Powell, director of the Department of Water. "It is important to us to find a way to help residents identify pipe materials of the privately-owned portion of the water service line. The offer to help coordinate the replacement with a qualified plumber is available for anyone interested in replacing existing lead water services."

Department of Water staff members are available every day to address questions and concerns of residents and business owners, at 937-333-6030. Visit daytonwater.org for additional information on City of Dayton water services.