The City of Miramar, which in 2020 was noted as the home to the United States’ highest share of Jamaican residents at 15.4%, is in receipt of a complaint filed regarding pinhole leaks found in copper pipes allegedly caused by improper water treatment.
Leaky pipes have been shown to cause health issues due to water contamination, as well the spread of mold and fungi. This can cause respiratory issues such as throat, nose and skin irritation, frequent coughing and sneezing, sinus congestion, rashes, fatigue, respiratory infection and even fever.
The City’s two Water Treatment Plants are regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA).
Samples are collected, tested, and reported on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis, and the water consistently meets regulatory standards.
City Manager Dr. Roy Virgin stated, “The City of Miramar values its residents and is sensitive to their concerns regarding copper pipe issues. The City has consistently assured residents and businesses that the water treatment facilities are up to par and does not cause damage to pipes. The case filed is being reviewed by the City Attorney’s office, who will respond through the appropriate channels.”
Currently, the City offers a loan program for residents affected by copper pipe pinhole leaks for a maximum of $10,000 at a one per cent interest rate with a five-year term.
In 2021 two workshops were conducted virtually to educate residents on the safety of the City’s water and in addition, a dedicated webpage was created with videos, water quality report and FAQs:Miramarfl.gov/CopperPipePinholeLeaks.
Water Quality FAQs were done, and an offer was made to residents to schedule in-home testing with follow-ups free of cost.
The City of Miramar says it continues to provide safe drinking water that meets or exceeds Federal and State standards and continuously monitors its water facilities and acts accordingly if it becomes aware of any issue that affects its water treatment and quality.
Miramar also has one of the country’s largest populations of Cubans (8.77%), Colombians (2.51%), Dominicans (1.98%), Haitians (6%), and Trinidadians (1.2%).
