The South Butler School District continues to deal with high levels of lead and copper in its water.
The latest tests revealed that five water sites still contained at or above 50 percent of the state Department of Environmental Protection’s level at which action needs to be taken. It’s unclear in which school buildings these water sources are located.
It was first revealed in July that 38 water sources, mostly classroom sinks, were contaminated with lead and/or copper. The district replaced the water fixtures at each of those sites and they were all taken out of service until they can be deemed safe. After a second round of tests, 11 water sites were still too high. After a third round, 5 sites remain high.
The district’s water engineering firm, Gannet Fleming, will now provide the school board with a plan to address the remaining issues. Following additional replacing of pipes or equipment, a fourth round of testing is expected to be authorized by the school board.
The remaining five sites will be out of service until they have been cleared. Other arrangements have been made for water service in those areas.
All South Butler school buildings are served by public water.
The school board will continue to post updated information to the district’s website.
