Over a year after announcing a lead hazard reduction program, the city of Wilmington is moving along with its initiative to mitigate lead paint risks in low-income homes.
In October of 2019, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development provided Wilmington with a $1.8 million grant to establish the program. Soon, that program will be underway.
City councilmembers this week moved to enter a contract with Precision Environmental, Inc. to provide risk assessments and testing services for the initiative. The city also authorized Cape Fear Community College to provide training.
The U.S. banned lead-based paint for consumer-use over 40 years ago. But millions of older homes still contain that paint. And Suzanne Rogers, the city’s Community Development and Housing Planner, says low-income families are especially vulnerable -- as old paint begins to chip and flake, putting children at risk.
“Older properties are more affordable for rental or even for home ownership, for lower-income, low to moderate income folks.”
The money will provide lead mitigation for eligible families. Home and property owners can apply on the City of Wilmington’s website.