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Well tests find lead; source unknown
By ALEX LEARY, Times Staff Writer HOMOSASSA -- The latest round of water tests in neighborhoods near two landfills here has again revealed high lead levels, but health officials say the groundwater supply probably is not contaminated. Five of nine residential wells in the Grover Cleveland Boulevard area had lead amounts that met or exceeded the state level of 0.015 milligrams per liter, according to the Citrus County Health Department. But after the water was flushed for 20 minutes, levels dropped below the threshold. That may be an indication the lead is coming from corroding pipe solder or pump fittings made of brass. "There does not appear to be any problem with the aquifer whatsoever," said Jim Rashley, environmental manager for the county health department. "But we don't want to leave the people hanging so we're going to run another set of tests. The last thing we want to do is panic the neighborhood." Whatever the source, lead can pose a significant health risk. It builds up in the body over many years and can damage the brain, red blood cells, and kidneys. The very young are especially vulnerable because lead can stunt mental and physical development. If the well systems themselves are to blame, homeowners will likely have to pay for any upgrades, Rashley said. But he added that an easy solution is to run the water for several minutes before pouring a glass. Filters are also available at stores such as Wal-Mart; consumers should make sure the product is approved by the National Sanitation Foundation, Rashley said. The health department has conducted about six tests since April, and the results have been contradictory each time. Tests were done near the former Materials Exchange landfill on Grover Cleveland Boulevard and the Citrus Sand & Debris landfill abutting Gate Point. The latest samples were taken July 16 and elevated levels were found near both landfills, records show. Andy Reich, an official with the state Department of Health's water bureau, has reviewed the findings and agrees the aquifer is probably not the source of contamination because the levels dropped after water was flushed. "It looks like it is coming from the plumbing itself," he said. Corrosion can be caused by a number of factors, including water with low mineral content. Electric current traveling through the ground can also play a role. The up and down nature of the results is a source of frustration for Berdine Banck, who lives with her daughter and grandson on Gate Point. "First it was really bad. Then they said it was all right. Now they are saying we're bad again," she said Wednesday. "I'd like to wring their necks. If it is bad, we want something done."
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