County makes funds available for lead abatement

Goshen — Lead Safe Orange funds are now available for residential lead abatement programs, according to Orange County Executive Edward A. Diana and Community Development Director Thomas Lane. “Seven out of ten residences in Orange County were built before 1978 when the federal government made it illegal for paint manufacturers to add lead to their product,” Lane said. “Even a small amount of lead from old paint particles mixed with household dust will cause above normal lead levels in the blood.” Lead Safe Orange will examine a residence for lead hazards and will pay a contractor trained in lead safe work practices to eliminate any that exist. These measures may include replacing windows with modern, energy efficient ones; covering exterior paint with vinyl siding; and removing lead-based paint from friction surfaces on doors. County residents may call 291-4094 if they are interested in taking advantage of the Lead Safe Orange Program. For further information, call Richard Mayfield in the County Executive’s Office at 291-2721.