Background/Purpose of Request:
The Environmental Protection Agency has revised its rule regulating lead and copper in public drinking water systems. The revised rule went into effect December 16, 2021. Brunswick County Public Utilities is required to be in full compliance by October 16, 2024. The changes involve sampling requirements and procedures, record keeping, required remedial action including replacement of utility and customer service lines, and related public notifications and education.
It will be necessary to procure the services of an engineering firm, or consultant, specializing in creating and maintaining lead and copper service inventory databases; creating a public education and outreach plan and associated materials; tracking sampling requirements, frequency, and results; reviewing and optimizing corrosion control treatment plans; creating a lead service line find and fix plan; and creating a lead service line replacement plan. It is anticipated the consultant will be selected through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process and will be subject to Board approval.
Approval of a new position, a Lead and Copper Mitigation Program Manager (grade 22 - Water Distribution Division), is recommended. This position will be responsible for assisting the consultant in gaining access to records necessary for the creation of the service database; monitoring and evaluating the performance of the consultant; scheduling the required sampling; and acting as a liaison to schools and childcare facilities; managing customer requests and water pitcher disbursement, reviewing reports created by the consultant; overseeing and updating the inventory database, and assuring the required documentation is provided to the appropriate State agencies to assure compliance with the Lead and Copper Rule (revised).
The Brunswick County ARPA Committee reviewed and approved the Project Request and Eligibility Determination attached. |