Audit criticizes Health Department in the wake of high lead levels in Pittsburgh water
An audit by Allegheny County Controller Chelsa Wagner criticized the county Health Department for failing to provide proper and adequate oversight after high lead levels were identified in the city's water.
Ms. Wagner said the 34-page report released today found "concerning lapses" in the health department's oversight of the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority, including a failure to identify a change in use of water corrosion control chemicals.
The audit states that the county health department has assumed primary oversight of the 36 community water systems operating in the county by agreement with the state Department of Environmental Protection, but the scope of the health department 's authority is unclear. It urged the health department to step up its monitoring efforts.
"This is a question of priorities and will, and perhaps casting an eye on agencies that have traditionally not come under much scrutiny," Ms. Wagner said. "This is too big a question and concern to continue to be left to localities that lack the wherewithal to truly confront this issue or unaccountable authorities that are content to point fingers elsewhere."
Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/local/city/2016/12/19/Audit-by-Allegheny-County-Controller-Chelsa-Wagner-criticizes-Health-Department-in-the-wake-of-high-lead-levels-in-Pittsburgh-water/stories/201612190136