Local experts to speak at lead contamination forum in South Bend

SOUTH BEND, Ind.-Over the last few months, ABC 57 News has been following the latest on how Saint Joseph County is working to prevent people from lead exposure. Thursday night, experts will gather to hear the community’s questions and concerns.

Coordinated by the Saint Joseph County Public Library, four local experts will share their knowledge on a variety of topics including lead containment, abatement, exposure and testing.

The four panelists are:
Todd Zeiger, Director, Indiana Landmarks, Northern Regional Office
Tim Klusczinski, President, Historic Preservation Commission
Whitney Griffin, Environmental Health Specialist, St. Joseph Co. Health Department
Kathy Schuth, Director, Near Northwest Neighborhood, Inc. 

Children living in South Bend possibly being exposed to lead continues to be a concern.

“Nearly 80% of the housing stock in South Bend was built before 1978 so there’s definitely potential for lead risk or contamination in the area so it’s an ongoing issue,” said Rona Plummer, the Research and Technology Manager at the SJC Public Library.

The Saint Joseph County Health Department created a “Lead Poisoning Prevention” plan, which ensures kids under the age of 7 can be screened for lead poisoning for free.

The number of children tested has doubled since 2016.

South Bend’s Near Northwest Neighborhood has also held informational meetings and provided testing for their community members.

ABC 57’s Taylor Popielarz will moderate the forum. It will be held inside the Humphrey’s Multimedia Room at the Main Library in Downtown South Bend from 6:30-8 P.M.