The Department of Municipal Development received a $3 million grant this fall to assist qualified homeowners to abate lead in their homes home.

The average amount awarded to homeowners so far $13,000, said Ken Malinowski, department of municipal development directo.

"This grant will run for 3 years, and we plan to abate 120 units." Malinowski said, "Preference is given to any household that has a child under the age of 6, and then to the home where a child spends most of their time."

A previous grant award from HUD allowed the department to complete 161 units. Malinowski said that, according to the 2000 Census, New Britain had approximately 5,700 children under the age of 6. With 90 percent of the housing in New Britain built prior to 1978 -- when the used of lead in soldering for water pipes ended -- Malinowski said the grant is helping in a lot of ways.

"This grant doesn’t just deal with abatement. We have outreach and public awareness programs to help let people know more about safe lead practices in the household." Malinowski said, "We also provide training in the household. We’re partnered with the health department, water department and the Human Resources Agency on the grant. And everyone brings their component."

According to the Connecticut Department of Public Health children are required to be tested for the levels of lead which have been absorbed into their bloodstream. If they are found to have an elevated blood lead level, the health department is required under state law to respond by performing an environmental inspection. This inspection includes interviewing the family, inspection of the home and the testing of all surfaces.

The Health Department’s chief sanitarian, Sergio Lupo, said that the department tests throughout the whole home with special attention to where the children may spend most of their time.

"We test the walls, all surfaces, the water, and soil in exposed pathways." Lupo said, "If there is a presence of lead, we issue a notice of violation to the property owner. Under the state law, they are required to make the change."

Depending on the severity of the violations, a child may have to relocate until the abatement process is complete. The health department will return for a visual inspection and make sure the owner followed through on their plan. If the abatement was completed and the levels are low, they will receive a letter of compliance from the health department, and the case is closed. According to Lupo, the process for abatement is costly. "Sometimes all of the windows may have to be replaced, or the home may need to be re-painted." Lupo said, "We find that many homeowners just don’t have the money to make the changes."

The Department of Municipal Development emphasizes that it not only helps homeowners financially, but helps them bring their homes up to building and safety standards. The grant requires homeowners to remain in the property for a 10-year period, as it is viewed as a forgivable loan. For more information, contact the Department of Municipal Development.

Franchone Fraser-Ben Reuben Bey can be reached at ffraser@newbritainherald.com or by calling (860) 225-4601, Ext. 221.