Sunapee Announces Sullivan County Lead Abatement Program, Seeks Eligible Property Owners

Sunapee’s town website posted a news release on Jan. 26, 2026 announcing that Sullivan County has opened applications for a lead abatement and healthy homes program aimed at properties housing low- and moderate-income occupants. The county program continues remediation work that began under earlier HUD awards and offers remediation funding and resources for eligible property owners.

The release explains who may qualify, outlines income limits for occupants, and directs property owners and contractors to application and contractor pre-qualification materials. Sunapee’s town page includes a program flyer and links to owner and contractor application materials, and it lists county contact information for the program manager for those seeking more information or assistance.

Lead hazards remain a persistent public health concern in older housing. Lead paint and lead-contaminated dust pose the highest risks to children and pregnant people, contributing to developmental delays, learning difficulties, and long-term health and economic consequences. By prioritizing units with low- and moderate-income residents, Sullivan County’s program targets populations that national and local data show are disproportionately affected by environmental health risks.

For property owners, the program can cover inspection, hazard reduction, and repair work that brings units into compliance with federal and state safe-housing standards. Contractor pre-qualification is intended to ensure that remediation work meets regulatory and safety requirements, while creating local contracting opportunities for firms that meet program standards. The continuation of HUD-supported funding signals federal investment in local housing health and may allow Sullivan County to reach rental units that small landlords manage across towns such as Sunapee.

Public health and housing advocates say addressing lead hazards is both a medical intervention and a matter of equity. Remediation reduces immediate exposure and can lower future healthcare and educational costs tied to lead-related disabilities. For renter households, particularly those with children, remediation also provides a more stable and safer living environment.

Property owners with tenants who meet low- and moderate-income guidelines should review the application materials on the Sunapee town website and consider applying. Contractors interested in performing lead-hazard remediation should consult the contractor pre-qualification materials linked on the same page. County contact information for the program manager is available on the town site for technical questions or to request assistance completing applications.

This program represents a chance for Sunapee and neighboring Sullivan County communities to reduce environmental health disparities and improve housing safety. Property owners and contractors who act now can help protect children, support healthier rental housing, and tap federal-backed resources that make abatement financially feasible.