Greeley's Lead Protection Program Receives Community Engagement Award

GREELEY, Colo. — The City of Greeley’s Lead Protection Program earned a national award for its community engagement efforts. The Lead Service Line Replacement Collaborative presented the award at the American Water Works Association’s Annual Conference in Washington, D.C.

The “Honoring Excellence in LSL Replacement” program recognizes communities that identify and remove lead pipes from water systems and reduce health risks from lead exposure.

Greeley earned the “Excellence in Community Engagement” award for its outreach in its Lead Protection Program. Michaela Jackson, the City of Greeley’s water quality and regulatory compliance manager, accepted the award for the city.

“Providing clean, safe and reliable water to Greeley residents is at the heart of our lead protection program,” Jackson said. “From the beginning, our team has put the community at the center of this work. That means providing clear communication, protecting public health and making sure residents feel informed, supported and heard every step of the way. We know building trust takes ongoing engagement, and I’m proud of the care our staff has shown in creating a program that not only meets requirements but also reflects our commitment to the people we serve.”

The city shared information at community events as well as through newsletters, radio, home visits and advertising on bus benches.  

Staff gave residents a simple test kit to help them identify their service line material. When staff found lead, they gave residents free water filter pitchers and replacement cartridges to remove lead, ensuring the water was still safe to drink. By working closely with residents, the city kept people informed, identified lines that needed replacement, and saved thousands of dollars in identification costs.

The Lead Service Line Replacement Collaborative recognized Greeley as one of three communities in the community engagement category.

For more information about Greeley’s Lead Protection Program, visit GreeleyCO.gov/LeadProtection

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