Questions raised at the September 27, 2023, Water Subcommittee Meeting Please see responses in bold to questions 1 - 10 below:
1. Are there lead pipes within our jurisdiction? If so, could you provide information on their locations? No. The Rialto Utility Authority does not have any lead pipes in our system.
2. When conducting water sampling, is there evidence of lead contamination in the samples? No. In compliance with the California Water Board’s Lead and Copper Rule, RWS routinely samples for lead in our system, and lead concentrations have not exceeded 15 parts per billion, nor have copper concentrations exceeded 1.3 parts per million in more than 10% of customer taps sampled.
3. In the event that lead is identified on the customer's side, who assumes liability for the replacement of pipes? This is still influx and has not been finalized yet. The EPA stated this will be finalized and determined by or before 10/16/24.
4. Regarding the deadline for completing the inventory by 10/16/24, does this include schools, and if so, who will be responsible for repairs if they indicate financial constraints? Will the City take on the responsibility of seeking funding for them? Yes, the deadline includes schools. As the LCRR is written, schools are responsible for replacing their lead service lines and will be responsible for seeking funding for themselves.
5. What is the anticipated cost of creating the inventory due on 10/16/24? $165K. Staff is proposing to use 120water to provide (1) a comprehensive inventory of all service lines in RUA’s distribution system and (2) a replacement plan for any distribution system with unknown, lead, or galvanized service lines.
6. Mayor Robertson mentioned the possibility of funding. Could you please confirm the availability of funding for this initiative? There is no funding for the inventory that is due on October 16, 2024. However, funding will be available for the replacement requirements (i.e., Biden Infrastructure).
7. If an inspection of a resident's property reveals galvanized pipes, will it be assumed that lead is present in those pipes? No.
8. How was the solicitation for vendors conducted, and were local vendors specifically invited to participate? RWS/Veolia sought out various vendors, presentations were provided, and 3 quotes were obtained. Local vendors were not solicited because RWS/Veolia could not locate any local vendors to facilitate the specialized work associated with the LCRR.
9. Under the Concession Agreement, is the responsibility for compliance with the Lead and Copper Rule vested in the City/RUA or RWS? This is a “Change in Law” activity outside the Concession Agreement's scope. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the City/RUA.
10. Can you provide information on the actions taken by other agencies in response to the Lead and Copper Rule revisions? Performing in-house
Redlands, City of
West Valley Water District (WVWD)
Agencies Outsourcing
Colton, City of
Corona, City of
Fontana Water Company (FWC) – initially performing in-house; however, they have encountered roadblocks and have engaged 3rd party contractors/consultants for assistance.
Garden Grove, City of - utilizing 120Water