The Problem
Lead poisoning is a silent epidemic that has been affecting children in Cleveland, Ohio at an alarming rate. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the city of Cleveland has rates of lead poisoning that are almost four times the national average. As of 2017, 12.9 percent of children in Cleveland had blood lead levels greater than five micrograms, compared to the 8.4 percent of children in Cuyahoga County and 2.8 percent of children in Ohio.
The Impact
Lead is a neurotoxin that adversely impacts human health. It is particularly dangerous to children and can cause developmental delays and impediments that result in significantly reduced academic performance, increased juvenile justice involvement, and other lifelong consequences. Because of the age of Cleveland’s housing stock and the disinvestment in it, children growing up in Cleveland are particularly susceptible to lead poisoning and its negative consequences.
The City’s Response
Recognizing the severity of this issue, the City of Cleveland has taken several measures to combat lead poisoning. In 2019, Cleveland City Council passed legislation that requires owners of rental property in the City to prove that their dwelling units are safe from lead hazards.
Property owners or their agents must engage an independent contractor to perform a lead inspection on their property. Following inspection, the inspection report along with the Lead Safe Certificate Application form must be submitted to the City of Cleveland Department of Building and Housing. There is no fee for application and certification must be renewed every two years from the date of initial certification.
The Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition
The Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition is a public-private partnership focused on preventing lead poisoning. Their approach is preventive, comprehensive, and long-term. The coalition provides financial assistance to property owners to lower the cost of getting their pre-1978 home or rental units Lead Safe5. They also offer training and financial aid to qualifying landlords, and widespread lead poisoning prevention education and outreach6.
Conclusion
While the problem of lead poisoning in Cleveland’s children is significant, the city’s response has been robust and multi-faceted. Through legislation, public-private partnerships, and community education, Cleveland is making strides towards becoming a lead-safe city. However, the work is far from over. Continued vigilance, investment, and community involvement are necessary to ensure the health and safety of Cleveland’s children.