The City of Delavan has issued a drinking water advisory after tests conducted in April 2025 revealed elevated levels of lead in more than 10% of sampled homes and buildings connected to lead service lines. While the advisory does not apply to all Delavan residences, officials urge impacted households to take immediate precautions.

The samples, taken as part of the city’s Lead Service Line Replacement Plan, were compared against the Environmental Protection Agency’s action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). Surpassing this threshold signals the need for increased public education, corrosion control adjustments, and accelerated replacement of lead lines.

Although not every home has lead-contaminated water, the city emphasized the importance of understanding one’s service line materials and reducing exposure. Lead can leach into drinking water from aging plumbing and fixtures, particularly in homes with known lead pipes. Ingested lead poses serious health risks across all age groups—especially for young children and pregnant women.

Health Effects and Recommendations

• Lead exposure in children is linked to behavioral issues, developmental delays, and reduced IQ.
• Adults may experience increased risks of heart disease, kidney damage, and neurological complications.
• The CDC recommends blood testing for children with potential exposure; action is triggered at levels of 3.5 µg/dL or more.

To reduce exposure, residents are encouraged to:

• Use water filters certified to remove lead, and replace cartridges as directed.
• Flush taps before using water for drinking or cooking.
• Always use cold water for consumption and preparation—boiling does not remove lead.
• Clean faucet aerators regularly to remove trapped particles.
• Contact a plumber or the city to determine your service line material.

Next Steps for the City

Delavan began developing a capital improvement plan in January 2023 to secure funding for full lead service line replacement. Officials estimate the project will take three to five years and have been proactively testing remaining homes with known lead connections.

Additional lead monitoring is underway, and city-wide education efforts are scheduled to begin by July 15, 2025. Residents who were tested should have received individual results. Those unsure of their status or interested in testing may contact the City of Delavan at (309) 244-7146 or visit cityofdelavanil.org.

More information about lead in drinking water and other sources of exposure is available at the EPA’s official site: epa.gov/lead.