There have been a few stories in the media lately about lead in some municipalities water. I want to be clear with East Gwillimbury residents, this is not the case for our water supply. Our municipal water is and continues to be safe. Here are some facts on our water quality control:
• There are no lead water services from the municipal watermain up to the property line. However, there may be some privately-owned lead pipes from the property line to the house, or there may be lead in solder or fittings used prior to 1990.
• Drinking water quality is monitored and does not have any concerns for lead in any recent sampling.
• All repairs/ extension to the distribution system (incl. fire hydrants) must be stamped NSF which indicates it has been tested/ inspected to ensure free of any lead.
• Lead sampling has been completed in accordance with the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) Regulations since it became a requirement in 2008.
• Since 2013 the Town has sampled in the distribution systems only and have had “0” exceedances for lead, pH and alkalinity.
• In 2017/ 2018 the MECP reviewed all Ontario municipalities’ current lead testing results and status (likely as a reaction to the Flint, MI drinking water crises). At that time the Town was asked to conduct a private plumbing lead sampling program in the Holland Landing/ Queensville/ Sharon DWS. This program was completed at the end of 2018 with “0” exceedances in any sample.
• The Town continues to discuss lead testing with the MECP and will commit to any changes in the sampling/testing requirements for lead in drinking water.
• Water in the Towns drinking water systems continues to be tested in accordance with stringent regulations and is deemed to be safe for consumption.
There are however, aesthetic issues with the water quality in Mount Albert. This is primarily a result of a high iron and other mineral content in the water. Town staff is continuing to work with York Region to address these concerns.
Town staff and council take the issue of water safety very seriously. Under current provincial legislation, if staff or council were found to be negligent in care for our water – we could be held criminally responsible and fined over a million dollars. Rest assured your water is safe to drink!