Riverhead Explores Innovative Water Quality Solutions with Community Preservation Funds

The Riverhead Town Board is set to hold a public hearing on a proposal that would allow the use of Community Preservation Fund (CPF) money for the construction of public water mains and pollution prevention projects. This move aims to provide clean drinking water to residents whose wells have been contaminated by toxic chemicals, addressing a pressing environmental concern in the region.

Unlocking the Potential of Community Preservation Funds for Water Quality Initiatives

Expanding the Scope of Community Preservation Funds

The state law governing Community Preservation Funds in the five East End towns, initially designed in 1999 for land preservation, was expanded in 2015 to allow 20 percent of the money generated by a 2 percent real estate transfer tax to be used for water quality projects. This legislative change has opened up new avenues for towns to address pressing water-related issues, with Southampton, East Hampton, and Shelter Island already utilizing CPF funds for such initiatives.

Riverhead's Proactive Approach to Water Quality Improvement

Recognizing the importance of clean water for its residents, Riverhead Town has established an advisory board to oversee the implementation of CPF-funded water quality projects, as required by the state law. The upcoming public hearing on October 1st is a crucial step in amending the town's Community Preservation Fund Project Plan to include a dedicated "Project Plan for Water Quality Improvement and Pollution Prevention Projects."

Addressing Contaminated Drinking Water Supplies

The proposed amendment would allow the use of CPF funds for the "construction of public water mains and connections to provide drinking water to inhabitants whose drinking water supply has been contaminated by toxic chemicals." This initiative aims to address a pressing issue faced by some Riverhead residents, whose wells have been compromised by the presence of harmful substances, jeopardizing their access to safe, potable water.

Leveraging Funding Sources for Maximum Impact

The proposed projects must receive at least 50 percent of their funding from other sources, and the CPF funding for associated costs cannot exceed 50 percent. This requirement ensures that the town's investment is complemented by additional resources, maximizing the impact of the water quality improvement efforts.

Balancing Fiscal Responsibility and Environmental Stewardship

Riverhead Town, which has previously bonded $72 million against anticipated CPF revenues for land preservation projects, is still repaying a significant portion of its annual CPF revenue to service this debt. The proposed local law would require that the cost of the water quality projects not exceed the annual revenue into the program, minus the bond indebtedness and a reserve of 10 percent. This approach demonstrates the town's commitment to fiscal responsibility while prioritizing environmental stewardship.

Expanding the Scope: Pollution Prevention Initiatives

The amendment would also allow CPF money to be used for municipal facilities aimed at "the reduction, avoidance, or elimination of the use of toxic or hazardous substances or the generation of such substances or pollutants." This broader scope reflects Riverhead's holistic approach to water quality improvement, recognizing the importance of addressing pollution sources to safeguard the region's water resources.

Engaging the Community through Public Hearings

The public hearing scheduled for October 1st provides an opportunity for Riverhead residents to voice their opinions and concerns regarding the proposed use of CPF funds for water quality projects. This transparent and inclusive process ensures that the town's decisions reflect the needs and priorities of the local community.Riverhead's proactive approach to leveraging Community Preservation Funds for water quality initiatives demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of its residents. By expanding the scope of these funds and implementing a comprehensive strategy, the town is poised to make a significant impact on the region's water resources, setting an example for other communities facing similar challenges.