MAYOR RAS A. BARAKA AND NJDEP COMMISSIONER SHAWN M. LATOURETTE
STATEMENT ON LEAD SERVICE LINE REPLACEMENT INVESTIGATION
The City of Newark and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) are pleased by the latest developments in an investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office that resulted in the arrests of two individuals who are charged with fraud by failing to fully replace lead service lines at sites that required remediation between 2019 and 2021.
In January 2024, Newark and the NJDEP were advised of concerns that, in some cases, third parties hired to replace lead service lines in Newark may not have complied with all requirements for full line replacement (example: from the water meter inside a home to the water main in the street). In response, Newark and the NJDEP initiated an audit to identify affected properties and commence inspections to verify compliance with lead service line replacement requirements to ensure the continued safety of all residents.
The audit, which began in January 2024, included both a targeted and a randomized data assessment resulting in over 700 excavations.
The targeted audit included 403 service line excavations. Of these, 33 properties were found to contain some remaining lead components, which were replaced. Consistent with Newark’s post-replacement protocol, residents were provided point-of-use filters for lead and flushing guidance by the city. The NJDEP is evaluating the randomized audit data set.
Importantly, the NJDEP has confirmed that Newark’s corrosion control treatment has been optimized to protect residents whose water may come into contact with plumbing that may still contain lead components. Newark has also demonstrated compliance with federal requirements. At this time, there is no need for Newark residents to take any additional precautions with respect to their drinking water.
Both the City of Newark and NJDEP’s leadership acted on these allegations as soon as we learned of them. We are proud that these investigations have led to arrests of individuals in connection with this matter, and justice will be done. We are also grateful to Newark residents who cooperated with the investigation, by allowing these excavations on their property.
Despite the indictment of these parties, the city and NJDEP remain confident in the success of the lead service line replacement program, which has led to 23,190 replacements, and stands as a national model for reducing the risks of lead exposure.
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Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) have recently issued a statement regarding a lead line scam that has been affecting residents in the city. The scam involves individuals posing as DEP employees and offering to replace lead service lines in homes for a fee.
According to Mayor Baraka, these individuals are not affiliated with the city or the DEP and are taking advantage of residents who are concerned about the safety of their drinking water. Lead service lines can pose a serious health risk, especially for children and pregnant women, as lead exposure can lead to developmental delays and other health issues.
The DEP has also issued a warning to residents to be cautious of anyone claiming to be from the department and offering lead line replacement services. Legitimate DEP employees will always have proper identification and will never ask for payment for services.
In response to the scam, Mayor Baraka has urged residents to contact the city’s Water and Sewer Department if they have any concerns about their lead service lines. The department can provide information on how to test for lead in drinking water and can offer guidance on how to safely replace lead service lines.
It is important for residents to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Lead exposure is a serious issue that can have long-term health effects, so it is crucial that residents take steps to protect themselves and their families.
In conclusion, the statement issued by Mayor Baraka and the DEP serves as a reminder to residents to be cautious of scams and to seek out legitimate sources of information and assistance when it comes to lead service lines. By working together, we can ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in Newark.
