Reports sought on solving lead problem
The city is considering taking action in the wake of reports regarding unsafe levels of lead in some Torontonians’ drinking water.
In mid-June council voted almost unanimously to seek reports on possible measures to make the water supply safer.
The city’s medical officer of health is to submit a report to the board of health in August, including recent findings on health impacts of lead in drinking water and recommended improvements to the city’s 2007 Lead in Drinking Water Mitigation Strategy.
City staff is also to report to the public works committee in August on the feasibility of starting a loan program for homeowners who can’t afford to replace lead pipes on their property, with costs being paid back either through water bills or property tax bills.
The public works committee is also to hear from the head of Toronto Water about the feasibility and cost of speeding up replacement of the city’s lead pipes.
