In the heart of Fort Atkinson, city officials gathered on July 1, 2025, to address pressing community issues, particularly the urgent need for lead service line replacements. The meeting, held in the city hall, was marked by a sense of responsibility and urgency as city leaders outlined a comprehensive plan to tackle the lead service lateral problem affecting many residents.

City representatives discussed a timeline that aims to complete an inventory of lead service lines by the end of 2025. This initiative is crucial as it aligns with state regulations and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) requirements. The plan includes submitting a replacement strategy by the end of 2025, with actual replacements expected to begin in 2027 and conclude by 2030. City officials emphasized the importance of maintaining a proactive approach, stating, “You can’t wait till the last minute. You’ve gotta keep up with a certain percentage.”

As part of this initiative, the city will create an ordinance to facilitate the lead service lateral replacements. Residents will be engaged throughout the process, with opportunities for grant funding to assist with costs. However, it was made clear that while the city will cover the infrastructure from the street to the property line, homeowners will be financially responsible for the service lines extending into their homes.

In addition to the lead service line discussions, the council also addressed procedural changes to improve city meetings. A proposed ordinance amendment was introduced to include the Pledge of Allegiance in the meeting agenda and to formalize the use of a consent agenda, which had been previously approved in 2021. This amendment aims to streamline city council operations and enhance civic engagement.

As the meeting concluded, city officials expressed their commitment to transparency and community involvement, encouraging residents to utilize the city’s GIS tools to check their service lines and to reach out for assistance if needed. With these initiatives, Fort Atkinson is taking significant steps toward ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents, paving the way for a healthier future.