Politics & Government
Homeowners Take Advantage of Southampton's Septic Upgrade Rebates
$50,000 rebate fund exhausted after 16 residents successfully apply.
Just three weeks after the funds became available, $50,000 that Southampton Town set aside to incentivize homeowners to upgrade their septic systems has been snatched up.
Councilwoman Christine Scalera reported Thursday that funds are exhausted now that 16 homeowners received rebates, including residents Flanders. The cash was available on a first-come, first-served basis, providing a 50 percent rebate for the total upgrade cost, and an extra 10 percent to homeowners within 200 feet of a water body.
The last rebate check was sent June 4, according to a Town Hall statement, which said that applicants who did not receive a rebate yet will be the first ones eligible when more money becomes available.
The rebate program is aimed at reducing nitrogen pollution in local waters by replacing or upgrading obsolete septic systems.
“We were able to help homeowners upgrade their current system to one that will further enhance water quality, which is key to maintaining the integrity of the town's coastal areas and aquifers,” Scalera said in a statement.
Scalera said she is seeking other funding sources and grants to replenish the rebate program, though she believes a regional approach to water quality issues is necessary.
