Bellmead utilities staff: about 2,800 connections may be affected by lead-and-copper rule

Bellmead utilities staff updated the City Council on the EPA's lead-and-copper rule improvements on Nov. 12, saying the rule requires more frequent communications about potential lead service lines and a running inventory of affected connections.

Mr. Rice told the council the city submitted an initial inventory in October and is maintaining it as a live document that will be updated as service-line replacements occur. He said notices will go to water customers who may be affected by galvanized or lead piping, even when the city cannot replace private service lines. "Looking at our connections, we're looking at about 2,800 connections," Mr. Rice said, characterizing the potential scope as citywide rather than limited to a single precinct.

Staff said the rule pushes for full replacement of impacted service lines within the next decade and that funding opportunities and communications plans are in development. Council members asked whether the current street-repair work (e.g., on Parish and Belle Meade Drive) factors into replacement plans; staff replied that the mandate focuses on service lines from the main to the meter, while larger trunk-line projects are a separate planning effort.

City staff provided sample notice language to council members and said all materials will be posted on the city's website. The council did not take an immediate action beyond receiving the report; staff said they will continue work on funding and outreach.