Lead levels remain a major concern in Massachusetts schools after the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection says it has tested water at 450 school buildings as part of a statewide effort to eliminate lead from their drinking water.

The tests found that 164 schools found lead levels higher than 15 parts per billion, meaning corrective action must be taken.

While speaking on his weekly radio program Mayor Jon Mitchell said that issues were also found in New Bedford but that officials were working to address the issue.

"We had a positive test over at the School Administration Building, a bubbler that, for whatever reason, was testing positive for lead," said Mitchell "so that was removed and we're working on those things."

"We have a very robust program, probably one of the most aggressive programs in the state," said Mitchell.

Mayor Mitchell says they will continue their efforts to ensure that lead is completely removed from the system.

Following the DEP announcement the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust announced on Tuesday additional $750,000 in funding to address drinking water safety in the Commonwealth.

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