Drinking Water In Mineral Point Tested For Lead

The City of Mineral Point is informing the public about high levels of lead, as they relate to health risks. The city reported last Thursday that the high lead levels were found in drinking water across a couple testing sites. According to Matt Honer, city administrator, this does not mean there’s lead in the entire water system. Water and Sewer Superintendent Nathan Fosbinder is now turning to educate the public about service laterals. Laterals connect homes to larger water systems. If they’re made out of lead and the infrastructure is breaking down, people who drink water from it may be exposed to more levels of the element than those whose laterals are made of other materials, like copper or plastic. The health risks are greatest among infants, young children and pregnant women, according to Debbie Siegenthaler, Iowa Co. health officer. She says too much lead can interfere with how much blood carries oxygen to the rest of the body and can damage organs. The city has notified “high-risk facilities,” like schools, daycares and assisted living centers. Mineral Point school Superintendent Mitch Wainwright says the Mineral Point School District does not have buildings with lead service lines.  As a precaution, the district has submitted a sample for testing and is waiting for results to return. Students or staff with concerns can drink from bottled water bought by the school district.