In a recent city council meeting, officials reviewed the Water Service Line Inventory Program, emphasizing compliance with the revised Lead and Copper Rule Revision (LCRR) mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Eddie Leon, the city’s attorney director, outlined the program's objectives, which include identifying materials used in water service lines across both public and private properties to ensure safe drinking water.

The LCRR requires municipalities to submit a comprehensive lead service line inventory to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) by October 16, 2024. This inventory must detail the materials of service lines, including any lead or galvanized components that require replacement. The city has already conducted an extensive survey, identifying over 8,000 connections, which represents approximately 64% of the total connections in Rosenberg. Notably, no lead lines were found, although 1,806 galvanized lines were identified, necessitating future replacement.

Leon highlighted that the city undertook this inventory without external contractors, showcasing the utility department's commitment to meeting federal and state regulations independently. The replacement plan for the identified galvanized lines must be submitted to TCEQ by 2027, detailing the lines needing replacement and potential financing options for affected residents.

Additionally, the council discussed the necessity of a water sampling plan for schools and childcare facilities, which must be implemented by 2025. This plan will involve sampling 20% of these facilities annually over five years to ensure compliance with safety standards.

The city is also developing a public inventory map, allowing residents to check the materials of their service lines by entering their addresses. Community outreach efforts are underway to keep residents informed about the program and its implications for public health and safety.