Cut red tape to reach goal on septic-tank replacements

It’s well-established that residential cesspools and septic tanks pollute Long Island’s sole source aquifer and waterways. Excessive nitrogen from aging systems contaminates drinking water and damages the environment, of particular concern for a region dependent on its rich maritime history. Cesspools aren’t the only source of excessive nitrogen — stormwater runoff is a big factor — but they are a major reason our water quality is jeopardized.

Replacing old cesspools with innovative and alternative onsite wastewater treatment systems, or IAs, can reduce nitrogen entering groundwater by as much as 80% or more. The systems aren’t cheap but state and county grants cover most of the costs for homeowners.

Long Island and New York State leaders have done a commendable job in providing grants and streamlining applications for homeowners who want to do the right thing for the environment. But Suffolk is behind its goal this year for replacing old cesspools.

The reason? Homeowners still have to pay out of pocket for some costs and deal with government bureaucracy.

Suffolk County’s goal is to replace 300,000 conventional cesspools by 2069, and by the end of 2026, the county wants to reach 16,500. To date, Suffolk has replaced 8,313, a notable achievement due largely to concerted efforts from leaders like County Executive Edward P. Romaine.

So, what can Suffolk do to convince more homeowners to switch? Pay for all installation expenses and cut red tape from grant applications. If Suffolk is to reach its goal, installing a new IA must be simplified even more than it already is.

Nassau and Suffolk counties, with tens of millions in grants from the state’s Septic System Replacement Fund Program, reimburse homeowners for almost the entire cost of installing an IA. But homeowners also must consider local permits, yearly inspections and maintenance, and monthly increases in electric bills. If someone’s property slopes, the price goes up while grants remain capped. The process still has a few unknown variables that can cause homeowners to skip the annoyance.

IAs require a change in thinking. The tank caps are visible on your property; electric bills go up; and there’s more frequent maintenance. Yes, it’s the right thing for the future of Long Island’s environment, but many homeowners, according to Suffolk’s own statistics, need convincing.

Suffolk can make the IA application simpler. Persuading even the most recalcitrant homeowner will require an effortless process that is as close to free as possible. The county should require IAs be installed when an existing cesspool fails; cover all installation costs for replacement IAs; and take stress out of the equation.

Suffolk residents supported replacing old cesspools in 2024 when 72% of voters approved the Water Quality Restoration Act, which created the funding mechanism, so there’s no need for another tax. Now, it’s up to homeowners on the fence to weigh their responsibility to the environment with the cost of waiting until their cesspool fails.