EPA: Tests show lead in some East Chicago drinking water

EAST CHICAGO, Ind. (AP) - Federal officials say they've discovered elevated levels of lead in drinking water in a northwestern Indiana city where contamination has been detected in the past.

The (Northwest Indiana) Times reports (http://bit.ly/2giorF2) that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Thursday confirmed the lead levels in water in some homes in East Chicago. Last summer certain East Chicago residents were told to move because of high levels of lead and arsenic.

EPA officials say results are preliminary and don't indicate if there is a widespread problem. They advise residents to use a water filter.

East Chicago Mayor Anthony Copeland says in a letter posted online that his office confirms that 18 of the 45 homes tested had at least one water sample exceeding lead standards. Copeland says he's asking for state and federal funding to replace water infrastructure.

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Information from: The Times, http://www.nwitimes.com