BY SUSAN MCTIGUE
CORRESPONDENT
CLOSTER, N.J.—In early February, Suez Water New Jersey mailed notices to many homeowners in the Northern Valley explaining that it had found elevated levels of lead in the drinking water at some customers’ properties.
Suez provided initial guidance on steps homeowners can take to privately test their water and use specialized filters to address the problem.
As the company reveal its plan, concerned residents can also be prepared to understand the facts, evaluate the remedial action, and ask informed questions about their individual situations.
On April 15, an expert panel discussion will be offered to the public free of charge at the Closter Senior Citizen Center at 4 Lewis St., behind Closter Borough Hall, from 7:30 to 9 p.m..
“Get the Lead Out: Is Our Water Safe?” will feature Closter resident Dr. Mark Maddaloni, doctor of public health, who currently serves as senior managing health scientist for Cardo ChemRisk. He served for 35 years as senior toxicologist for the Environmental Protection Agency, which recognized him as a national expert in lead risk assessment. He also serves as the chair of the Closter Planning Board.
Maddaloni will be joined by Gary Brune, a policy manager at New Jersey Future, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that promotes sensible growth and infrastructure investments in the state. His primary focus includes stormwater utilities and lead in drinking water.
Suez was invited to participate in this program, but declined, explaining that the company intends to hold a series of town meetings in the future, but that it is premature at this point. The panel discussion will be moderated by Closter resident Adrienne Isacoff.
All are invited to attend this important informational nonpartisan event, which is sponsored by the Closter Democratic Club as part of its on-going series that addresses critical subjects that impact the residents of the Northern Valley and beyond.
Questions and participation from the audience are welcome. Refreshments will be served.