Southampton Town has set aside $50,000 to help cover some of the costs for homeowners who upgrade their septic systems, aimed at lessening the amount of nitrogen getting into local waters.
Sponsored by Councilwoman Christine Scalera, the rebate program that was unanimously adopted by the Town Board Tuesday offers an incentive of up to 50 percent of the total upgrade cost, according to a statement from the Town Council office. And homeowners in critical watersheds within 200 feet of a waterbody will be eligible for even more — up to 60 percent of the cost.
“Anything we can do to lessen nitrogen and/or the effects thereof on our waters and further enhance water quality is key to maintaining the integrity of the town’s coastal areas and aquifers,” Scalera said in the statement. “Unfortunately, the economic realities are that very often people can’t absorb the cost of an upgrade themselves. It is my hope that providing this incentive will make the difference in being able to afford what was perhaps an untenable cost without the incentive.”
The $50,000 will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, though the program will not begin for another three weeks, under state requirements, according to the statement. Scalera is seeking additional funding for the program, from sources such as grants.
“While ultimately, I believe a regional approach is what is going to be needed to address this critical issue, I believe this a good beginning,” Scalera said.
