State Rep. Brad Paquette, of Berrien Springs, issued the following statement regarding recent reports that Eau Claire has exceeded the state’s Lead Action Level.

“Residents should never have to wonder if the water coming out of their tap is going to make them sick,” Paquette said. “I am working with state and local officials to ensure we are all quickly responding to this threat.”

Paquette also announced water filters will be distributed at the Eau Claire Village Hall on Friday, Nov. 1 and Tuesday, Nov. 5 from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Priority will be given to homes with pregnant women, children under the age of 18, and those experiencing financial hardships.

“The Action Level notification that has been sent to residents does not necessarily mean a violation has occurred, but it is does trigger additional monitoring to protect public health and provide public education,” Paquette said. “Local leaders and state officials are working together to make sure this potential public health threat is addressed. It is paramount to restore the public’s trust that our drinking water is completely safe.”

Residents with questions or a desire for more information can visit the Berrien County Health Department’s webpage at http://www.bchdmi.org/1568/Lead-Drinking-Water or call the Public Health Hotline at 1-800-815-5484. Additional information from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy about lead contaminated water can be found at https://www.michigan.gov/egle/0,9429,7-135-3313_3675_76638—,00.html.

If you have additional questions, you may also call Rep. Paquette’s office at (517) 373-1796 or email [email protected].

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