MOUNT VERNON – The City of Mount Vernon is actively conducting an inventory of its water service lines as mandated by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA).
This effort is part of a statewide mandate requiring all public water systems in Ohio to identify and document water service line materials to ensure the continued safety and quality of drinking water.
To date, the City has inspected over 2,500 water service lines and has found no evidence of lead lines within the distribution system. The City has no knowledge of ever using or allowing lead service lines in its system.
However, to maintain the highest safety standards and remain in compliance with the OEPA, the City will continue to inspect and verify that no lead lines exist within our service area.
As part of this process, some residents may receive a letter indicating that their service line material is unknown.
This simply means that the line has not yet been inventoried. Additionally, some property owners may receive notification stating that their service line is made of “galvanized steel” and needs replacement.
This designation could indicate that the City’s service line needs replacement, the residential service line needs replacement, or both.
The City is committed to identifying and addressing these cases and will continue to alert property owners as more galvanized lines are discovered.
It is important to note that when the City performs water line upgrades, it is standard practice to replace galvanized lines with copper lines.
At this time, there is no federal or state EPA mandate requiring property owners to replace their galvanized service lines, nor is there any such requirement from the City of Mount Vernon.
The City of Mount Vernon is dedicated to ensuring safe drinking water for all residents and customers.
The community’s cooperation is appreciated during this important process. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the City’s Engineering Office at 740-392-9528 or email Questions@MountVernonOhio.org.