Kenosha Water Utility (KWU) announced an expanded outreach effort on Tuesday, Oct. 27, encouraging families with a child younger than seven or a pregnant woman to call or email the utility right away about lead service line replacement. The push coincides with Children’s Health Month and National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (Oct. 25‑31).
New website and direct contact options
KWU launched a dedicated website, KWULSLP.org, to help residents learn about the replacement program, look up property‑specific information, and understand the next steps. Residents do not need to know the material of their service line before reaching out, nor must they wait for a mailed notice. Both renters and homeowners can contact the utility at 262‑653‑4315 or via email at [email protected].
Potential full‑cost assistance
“For qualifying households, available assistance may cover the full cost of replacement,” said Curt Czarnecki, general manager of KWU. “Funding is limited and assistance will be prioritized, so we encourage households with a child under 7 or a pregnant woman to contact us promptly.” Eligibility depends on property type, household circumstances, program requirements and the amount of funding available.
Progress to date and future goals
KWU reports that more than 2,000 lead service lines have been removed over the past several years. Based on current records, roughly 7,000 lead service lines remain throughout Kenosha. “We’re working diligently to bring that number to zero as quickly as possible,” Czarnecki added.
Mayor supports the initiative
Mayor David F. Bogdala framed the effort as a broader investment in the city’s infrastructure and the health of its residents. “This work is an investment in Kenosha’s infrastructure and the well‑being of the people who call our city home,” he said. “By pairing service line replacement with practical information and outreach, we can help more residents understand the program and connect families with assistance that may be available.”
Why lead service lines matter
Lead is not present in the water leaving KWU’s treatment plant, but it can leach into drinking water through lead service lines or older household plumbing before reaching the tap. Exposure to lead, especially for infants and young children, has been linked to serious health effects. Replacing lead service lines eliminates this potential source of exposure.
How to check your property
The new website consolidates program details, a searchable service‑line property map, FAQs, and guidance for residents. All Kenosha residents can use the site to verify the material recorded for their address and to request assistance if the material is unknown.
Next steps for residents
Residents who receive a call from KWU or from Clark Dietz, the engineering firm managing the current replacement project, should follow the provided instructions promptly. The utility encourages early contact to secure any available financial assistance and to keep the replacement schedule moving forward.
For more information, call 262‑653‑4315, email [email protected], or visit KWULSLP.org.
Original reporting: Kenosha.com — read the source article.
