Sewer pipe repairs raise health concerns, How participatory budgeting works

Air Date:
Heard On The Morning Show
Workers repairing sewage pipes from above ground
Sewage pipes being repaired by a cured-in-place-pipe method in Buena Vista, Michigan, in 2011. The method has becoming increasingly popular because it is much cheaper than digging up pipes. But new research reveals public health concerns. (Photo courtesy U.S. Department of Agriculture

We examine a common way of fixing sewer pipes in our country and the potential effects on human health with noxious fumes. Then, we discuss whether residents should have a say in the spending of public tax dollars.

Featured in this Show

  • What if residents could decide how to spend public tax dollars?

    What if residents could decide how to spend public tax dollars? The process known as Participatory Budgeting is being tried in Milwaukee and discontinued in Eau Claire. We hear from a leader of the national group who says allowing residents to vote on spending is taking hold across the country.

  • Cheap sewer repairs can push toxic fumes into schools, homes

    A recent USA Today investigation has found that a cheap method of pipe repair is making people sick. We speak with a researcher studying this pipe repair technique to learn why it’s dangerous and what can be done to make the method safer.

Episode Credits

  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • Mackenzie Krumme Producer
  • Trevor Hook Producer
  • Maria Lopez Technical Director
  • Ingrid Haftel Guest
  • Andrew Whelton Guest

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