Lead Found in 2 Water Fountains at District 112 Schools

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — Unacceptable levels of lead were found in two water fountains at two North Shore District 112 schools, according to a city press release. Lead within acceptable levels also was detected in seven drinking fountains in two other district schools.

The findings come as part water testing Highland Park—in conjunction with District 112, Township High School District 113, Park District of Highland Park and the Highland Park Public Library—conducted in July. Although two city water fixtures were found with unsatisfactory lead levels from the results of 61 samples that Highland Park received last week, the community's overall water production and distribution system meets or exceeds state and federal water safety standards.

Of the results from 64 samples that were received this week, a hallway water fountain at Lincoln Elementary School and a water fountain in the boys' locker room at Elm Place Middle School both had lead concentrations of 25 parts per billion, according to the release. The lead level set by the Environmental Protection Agency before action needs to be taken is 15 parts per billion.

“After learning of the elevated lead levels at one water fountain at Elm Place Middle School and another at Lincoln Elementary, we immediately shut off and bagged the sources while they await further investigation,” District 112 Superintendent Dr. Michael Bregy stated in the release. “The well-being of all of our students, staff and community is our greatest responsibility as educators, and we will work tirelessly to address this situation in an expedient and comprehensive manner."

RELATED: Highland Park Turns Off 3 City-Owned Water Fixtures Over Lead Levels

Water fixtures in two other district schools also had concentrations below the EPA's standard. A drinking fountain at Green Bay Early Childhood Center had a concentration of 5 parts per billion, and six drinking fountains at Elm Place Middle School had concentrations between 6 and 10 parts per billion.

Currently, Highland Park has tested 377 fixtures, and the city is working with District 113 and park district to make sure their outlets are tested immediately, said City Manager Ghida Neukirch.

“Safe drinking water in our schools, public facilities and homes is critical," Mayor Nancy Rotering stated in the city release. "Public health and safety are the most fundamental responsibilities of government. … Lead exposure, especially to our children and seniors can cause serious health issues. It is time to pass laws, adopt new protocols and prioritize infrastructure investment in our budgets. Collaboration among stakeholders, local, state and federal officials will ensure our public’s safety.”

While Highland Park isn't required to test its water for lead, Rotering said she thinks the current results indicate that the city and its "sister governments" should do "annual testing of all public facility water fountains, report the results to the public, and take necessary actions to remediate issues."

Go to the lead information page on the city's website for more information about the testing. Residents with questions also can contact the following Highland Park officials:

• City Manager Ghida Neukirch: gneukirch@cityhpil.com; 847-926-1000
• Water Plant Superintendent Don Jensen: djensen@cityhpil.com; 847-433-4355

PHOTO: (Pixabay)

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