Mangano Announces Freeport Home Is First To Qualify For Lead Reduction Grant Program

Initiative Aimed at Reducing the Risk of Lead Paint Poisoning in Children

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano today announced the start of renovations on a home in Freeport as part of a new initiative to test and remove lead paint in homes across the County.  The Nassau County Office of Community Development (OOCD) recently obtained a $4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to coordinate this Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program. The County plans to rehabilitate 85 homeowner units and 85 rental units through the grant program, improving the living conditions for an estimated 340 children.

Lead will be removed from various spots inside the house, located at 180 Whaley Street, including walls, pipes, and doors, and new vinyl siding and windows will be installed. The project, which totals $33,240, also includes the removal of lead from the garage, the construction of a new cement stoop and the repair of a concrete patio.

“Lead poisoning causes learning disabilities, speech delays, hearing loss, and sometimes even death, and it only takes three particles of lead dust to harm a child. Thanks to this grant, this house will be a safe and lead-free environment for the children who live here.” said County Executive Mangano.

Under the direction of County Executive Mangano, the County has earmarked a $1.3 million toward the efforts ($1 million Community Block Development Grant and $300,000 in HOME Investment Partnership Program funds).  The $5.3 million will be used to provide risk assessments for low income homeowners and rehabilitate homes in which children reside.  The OOCD and Department of Health (DOH) will jointly implement actions to control lead-based paint hazards in private dwellings. All homes testing positive for the presence of lead with children under the age of six may qualify for lead hazard reduction assistance.

“Almost 38 million homes in the US still contain lead-based paint,” said County Executive Mangano. “Getting homes tested for lead is an important step toward ensuring our children grow up healthy.”

Homes built before 1978 that have chipped paint on walls or windows should be tested for lead. For more information on eligibility requirements for lead removal through the Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program please call (516) 572-1915.