Pueblo families concerned about lead in drinking water

In the days following the release of Pueblo D-60’s lead test results, families living nearby the schools are concerned about their own water source.

It stems from the year-long lead testing program that just finished in Pueblo City Schools.

KRDO uncovered the story earlier this week, where data provided online shows at least nine different schools with lead levels above the Environmental Protection Agency’s safe limit.

Now, parents like Kenny Vigil are concerned their water at home is unsafe too.

“I’m very concerned, given what happened in Flint and our houses are so old…it makes me nervous,” said Vigil, who lives in a home built with plumbing and fixtures that contain lead.

The Flint, Michigan water crisis that gained national attention, prompted many schools and communities across the U.S. to start testing for lead in drinking water.

“It just makes you wonder how long it will take us to get help,” said Vigil.

KRDO brought those concerns to Pueblo mayoral candidate and former City Council President, Steve Nawrocki.

“I think we would have a responsibility over a period of time to make sure every household is tested in the city of Pueblo,” Nawrocki said.

A project that would require a big budget, but bring relief to thousands of families like the Vigils.

“You just want to be able to sleep at night knowing you’re safe,” he said.

For more information on the lead test results in Pueblo D-60, click here.