Lead-removal funds on agenda

NEW CASTLE, Pa. — Lawrence County commissioners will apply for $195,000 in state funding to pay for a program to eliminate lead from homes in three communities.

Lawrence County Social Services is administering the program that would help remove lead from at least 11 homes in Mahoning, North Beaver and Pulaski townships.

LCSS representatives asked commissioners to apply for the grant. The social service agency will provide the required $195,000 match.

LCSS in 2006 was awarded a $3 million federal grant to help identify and eliminate lead hazards in northwestern Pennsylvania. The grant is to be used over a three-year period to help eliminate lead from homes occupied by low-income people with children younger than age 6.

The Lawrence County lead-removal program, called the Lawrence Core Communities Housing Program, will provide grants of up to $12,250 per low-income household for those who qualify in those three communities.

Commissioners intend to formally vote on the application for state funding at Tuesday’s regular meeting.