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While lead poisoning is found in all corners
of the County, the city is most affected because the city contains most of the
housing built before 1978. The city has multiple opportunities to ensure safe
housing.
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If
deteriorating paint were identified as a health and safety issue, then code
violations for paint would receive a higher priority than they do today. City
NET inspectors need to be trained and assigned to test for lead hazards. |
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Today, no
inspection or permit, such as the certificate of occupancy, requires evidence
that the property is lead safe. We should have a policy that says that
anytime a property changes hands, or when a certificate of occupancy is to be
renewed, the owner must provide proof that the house is lead safe. |
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Because most
deteriorated housing is not owner occupied, renters need protection. We need
a policy that residents can get a lead hazard assessment if they believe there
is a problem. And renters who complain about hazardous conditions need full
protection from retribution by landlords. |
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We need a policy that anytime
work is done that disturbs paint in pre-’78 housing, workers must follow lead
safe practices to ensure that the house and the surrounding neighborhood are
not further contaminated. |
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