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The L’Anse Village Council got a look at one of the new self-contained breathing apparatus that the fire department has just put into service. At last night’s meeting, Fire Chief Mike Bianco explained that the new SCBA units provide oxygen to firefighters when they enter smoke-filled areas. Each tank, mask and harness combination is price.
Many fire departments in Baraga County have received similar units, after they pooled their resources to apply for a $600,000 grant. Bianco told the council that theirs arrived just in time – their old SCBA units had just reached the age at which they can no longer be used. The new tanks hold more oxygen than the old ones, giving firefighters time to work in dangerous areas. They were first used in a recent house fire. See what they look like in our story at KeweenawReport.com.
The L’Anse water department is beginning its search to identify any lead water main leads in the system. The state is requiring all water providers to canvass their systems, and identify and replace lead pipes that connect homes and businesses to the main lines. Public Works Director Scott Lloyd says they started their search in the record books, eliminating installations that took place after lead leads were outlawed, and those in areas where upgrades have taken place in recent years. More than a handful of mysteries remain, however.
Lloyd says he’s reasonably certain that none of them are lead, but will likely need to show more positive proof to the state.
The process involves boring a hole about the diameter of a hockey puck down to the lead, so it can be tested. While the state has mandated the evaluation and replacement, it has provided little money to cover the cost. Bridge Magazine recently reported that Escanaba will probably need to replace 80 percent of its leads, at a cost of $20 million.
At its first full in-person meeting since the pandemic began, Village Manager Bob LaFave told the council that this year’s spring cleanup will take place the week of May 17th. In addition, volunteers will gather this Saturday to pick up trash and debris throughout L’Anse. Participants should meet at 9:00 at Meadowbrook Arena for assignments. Trash bags and gloves will be provided.
