DPW Services
City of Reading Department of Public Works
180 W. Lincoln St.
Reading, MI 49274
Phone: (517) 283-2835
Fax: (517) 283-1835
Email: bob@reading.mi.us
Bob Jepson, Department of Public Works
DPW Services Information
2026 Spring Clean Up LRS Acceptable/Unacceptable Materials
2026 Spring Hydrant Flushing Notice (April 8, 2026)
Street Light Outage Reporting Consumers Energy
WATER INFORMATION
SURVEY Water Service Line Material

Annual Drinking Water Quality Report

We’re pleased to present to you the most recent Annual Drinking Water Quality Report. This report is designed to keep you informed about the quality water and services we have delivered to you over the past year. Our goal is, and always has been, to provide to you a safe and dependable supply of drinking water. Our water source is from 2 wells located in the Reading Wellhead protection zone which was initiated to protect our ground water supply.
NOTICES/RULES/REGULATIONS
Sump Pump Rules and Regulations
WATER SERVICES DAYLIGHTING DOCUMENTATION Completed Service Line Inventory
WATER/SEWER SERVICE
STREET INFORMATION
1. Reduce Lead Exposure from Drinking Water
Core Message: Small daily habits reduce risk.
Key Points:
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Run water 30–60 seconds before use if unused for several hours
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Use only cold water for cooking and drinking
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Clean aerators regularly
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Consider certified filters
Call to Action:
“Start today—flush your tap before drinking.”
2. Cleaning Your Aerators
Core Message: Lead particles can collect in faucet screens.
Key Points:
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Unscrew and rinse aerators monthly
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Soak in vinegar to remove buildup
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Replace damaged screens
Call to Action:
“5-minute fix for safer water.”
3. Understanding Particulate Lead
Core Message: Lead isn’t always dissolved—it can be particles.
Key Points:
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Construction or pipe disturbance can release particles
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Aerators and filters help capture them
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Flushing is especially important after disturbances
Call to Action:
👉 “After any plumbing work—flush your system.”
4. Construction Impacts on Water Quality
Core Message: Nearby work can temporarily affect your water.
Key Points:
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Water main work can disturb sediment
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Temporary discoloration may occur
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Flush taps and avoid using discolored water for drinking
Call to Action:
“After construction, run water until clear.”
5. Partial Lead Service Line Replacement
Core Message: Partial replacement can temporarily increase risk.
Key Points:
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Disturbance can release lead particles
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Filters are strongly recommended after replacement
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Full replacement is the safest long-term option
Call to Action:
“Use a filter after service line work.”
6. Galvanized Service Lines
Core Message: Even non-lead pipes can hold lead residue.
Key Points:
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Galvanized pipes may have absorbed lead over time
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Replacement is often recommended
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Testing helps determine risk
Call to Action:
“Older home? Consider a plumbing inspection.”
7. Choosing Certified Water Filters
Core Message: Not all filters remove lead.
Key Points:
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Look for NSF/ANSI 53 or 58 certification
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Follow replacement schedules
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Use for drinking and cooking water
Call to Action:
“Check your filter—does it remove lead?”
8. Identifying Lead-Free Plumbing Products
Core Message: “Lead-free” still matters in upgrades.
Key Points:
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Federal standard = ≤0.25% lead content
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Look for certification markings
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Use licensed professionals when possible
Call to Action:
“Ask for certified lead-free fixtures.”
