New tests reveal lead is still found in Watts’ tap water, months after it was first detected in numerous homes.
A Better Watts Initiative study conducted in September found lead in some water samples taken from single-family homes and public housing. The discovery prompted Mayor Karen Bass and city leaders to call for a contamination investigation.
“We take steps to make sure our children are fed: what we cook our peas and carrots with, what we wash our T-shirts and jeans with, and what we step into when we take a shower. All of that is a relatively safe place for us to live,” said Timothy Watkins of the Watts Workers Community Action Committee.
As of November 18, 67% of test results were obtained from samples taken from 1,261 vehicles. The Housing Authority said 40% of those samples found some form of lead in the kitchen faucet.
“Of course the EPA and we believe the goal is zero, but I know that in most of 99% of those units, the amount of lead is very low. We’re going to continue to do the same thing, to get as close to zero as possible,” said Maricela Ocampo, director of housing services.
Nickerson Gardens still has about 600 fewer units to sample. The Housing Authority said it was working with consultants to review the results.
“They’re tasked with actually looking at the results and actually planning. Are there really areas where there are more leads or certain buildings? They also look at properties and see where the problems are. Prioritize.”
The Housing Authority is conducting testing in two phases and expects all water samples to be collected by mid-December.
“To stay connected to our residents and community, HACLA has partnered with three health fairs in the Watts community and with the Department of Public Health to conduct blood lead testing for residents and provide 115 In addition, we continue to meet twice a week with stakeholders, with all interested community members on Wednesdays and initial studies on Mondays. including a meeting with the Better Watts Initiative, a group that led the charge,” the housing authority said in a statement.
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