The City of Great Bend Utilities Department is in the midst of a crucial task mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency. The department is still gathering information to complete a survey that aims to determine the material composition of water lines in the community.
In order to reach all residents, a new round of surveys has been released. This second wave of surveys is specifically targeting those who did not respond or marked their answers as unknown in the initial survey. Many property owners have been seeking clarification on the process and how they can contribute to this important initiative.
For homes and buildings constructed after 1988, it is generally believed that the presence of lead in water lines is less common. However, there is still a possibility that lead materials may have been used in residential water lines even after this period. As a result, all property owners in the community are urged to conduct their own on-site inspections to determine the material type of their water lines – whether it be lead, copper, galvanized steel, or plastic.
To aid in the EPA’s required water line inventory, the City of Great Bend requires cooperation from property owners in verifying their water line material. Through simple tests or observations, property owners can assist the City by identifying the material their water lines are made of. Instructions on determining the water line material are provided, along with an online self-reporting tool for sharing the findings with the City.
Funding for this vital initiative has been secured through an agreement between the Kansas Department of Health and Environment State Revolving Fund Set-aside and JEO Consulting Group. For any inquiries or concerns, residents are encouraged to contact the City of Great Bend Utilities Department directly.
The completion of this survey is crucial to ensuring the safety and health of residents in Great Bend, and the City is urging all property owners to participate and contribute to this essential endeavor.
