Hundreds of inmates and staff drinking bottled water while health officials investigate plumbing corrosion at Kalamazoo County Jail

The Kalamazoo County Jail is currently providing bottled water to inmates and staff after health officials identified elevated levels of lead and copper in the facility's water system. An ongoing investigation is determining the source and extent of the contamination.

Kalamazoo County officials stated that the contamination was caused by corrosion within portions of the jail's internal plumbing system. This is not an issue with the municipal water supply that feeds the facility.

Testing revealed elevated metal levels in some fixtures

Initial tests conducted in February by the Kalamazoo County Health Department showed elevated levels of copper and lead in the water system. However, all kitchen sinks tested non-detect for lead.

One cafeteria kitchenette sink, which is not used for food preparation, showed slightly elevated results. Testing done in March and April identified elevated copper levels in some fixtures throughout the jail. Some results showed improvement after flushing and other response efforts, though elevated copper levels were still identified.

Bottled water distributed with each meal

Following February's testing, the county implemented several actions:

  • Providing bottled drinking water to residents and staff
  • Conducting additional sampling and flushing efforts
  • Installing water filtration systems at key locations throughout the jail
  • Continuing consultation with public health, environmental, and technical experts

Kalamazoo County Undersheriff Michelle Greenlee told News Channel 3 in April that jail staff are giving inmates up to seven bottles of water per day. Water is being distributed with each meal to manage waste and prevent the accumulation of water bottles in cells.

Health officials say facility remains safe

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said water from the Jail should not be consumed. MDHHS stated the water is safe for handwashing, showering and food preparation. Those residing and working at the jail should still only drink bottled water.

County officials advised that prolonged consumption of water with elevated copper levels could potentially cause gastrointestinal issues. This is why the bottled water precautions remain in place.

Testing expected in late May

Another round of testing will be conducted to evaluate if the filtration measures put in place have been effective. The county said those results are expected in late May or early June.

Additionally, county officials said they are considering consulting a qualified water management or engineering firm to help evaluate both short-term mitigation strategies and potential long-term infrastructure solutions within the facility.

The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine the most appropriate path forward based on expert guidance.

"The focus is on mitigation, continued testing, and identifying the most appropriate path forward based on expert guidance," county officials said.

Jail regularly supervises over 400 inmates

The Kalamazoo County Jail regularly supervises over 400 inmates according to the Sheriff's Office website. The water quality issue affects both inmates and staff who work at the facility.