EP118: EPIC Solutions to the Lead Problem

Stephanie served as judge for the Environmental Policy Innovation Center's (EPIC) 2022 Water Data Prize. Submissions came form a diverse range of participants ranging from water utilities, to water tech companies, to professors and universities. Inventory, mapping, equity, and communications were the four award categories. The overall prize was awarded to the City of Newark, NJ and the engineer firm, CDM Smith.

During this chat, Jessie (EPIC) shares an overview of the submissions and takeaways gleaned from the proposed solutions. Kareem (Newark) and Sandy (CMD Smith) then break down the winning project, their approach, and advice for other communities working towards meeting the requirements of the Lead and Copper rule updates.

Meet the Guests:

Jessie Mahr is the Director of Technology at the Environmental Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) where she focuses on the data gaps and capacity needs in environmental agencies that could speed up environmental progress. Prior to joining EPIC, she worked on climate change and environmental issues across sections in the US from engineering firms, technology companies, state agencies and non-profits. Jessie holds a Master of Science in Water Resource Engineering and Environmental Policy from Tufts University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Geography from The University of Texas.

Sandra Kutzing (Sandy) is a Professional Engineer and Vice President at CDM Smith in New Jersey with 20 years of experience in drinking water. Sandy is leading CDM Smith’s Lead in Drinking Water Practice with a focus in regulatory compliance, corrosion control optimization, distribution system water quality and developing and managing LSL replacement programs. When not thinking about lead, Sandy spends time traveling, spoiling her nieces and nephews, exercising, reading, and always learning.

Director Kareem Adeem is a Newark native who began working for Newark in 1991 in the Department of Engineering and has moved up the ladder in his field. In 2013, Director Adeem was elevated to Superintendent of Maintenance Operations, where he oversaw daily maintenance operations of the Department of Water & Sewer Utilities. He earned a promotion to Assist Director in 2016 and Acting Director position in 2018. In addition Director Adeem is a member of Water Supply Advisory Council of New Jersey and NJ Task Force on Lead. Director Adeem is credited with rebuilding and rebrand Water & Sewer Utilities. By upgrading the water and sewer infrastructure, the City works to replace every lead service line, Upgrade to its water treatment plant, and the Long term control program (LTCP). He is a dedicated public servant who has and continues to give back to his native community.