Agenda - Council - 09/13/2022 - Laserfiche WebLink

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In addition to the eligible uses under the CWSRF, Treasury is expanding the eligible uses under the final rule to include stormwater system infrastructure projects regardless of whether there is an expected water quality benefit from the project. Treasury anticipates that this eligible use will allow recipients to manage increased volumes of stormwater as a result of changes to the climate. For example, the final rule now permits the use of SLFRF funds for the repair, replacement, or removal of culverts or other road -stream crossing infrastructure to the extent the purpose of the project is to manage stormwater. In addition, Treasury understands that the repair, replacement, or removal of culverts may necessitate the repair or upgrade of roads. As noted in guidance issued after the interim final rule, recipients may use SLFRF funds for road repairs and upgrades that interact directly with an eligible stormwater infrastructure project. All stormwater infrastructure projects undertaken should incorporate updated design features and current best practices. Private Wells and Septic Systems Public Comment: Several commenters requested that the scope of eligible projects be expanded to allow for the expenditure of SLFRF funds on private wells or septic systems. Commenters noted that wells may be contaminated with dangerous substances, including arsenic, lead, radon, and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl). Commenters also suggested that, because rural and underserved communities are often reliant on these infrastructure types for their drinking water or wastewater needs, lack of appropriate funding to maintain these systems could present health and safety issues that disproportionately affect certain communities. Treasury Response: Consistent with the CWSRF, the installation, repair, or replacement of private septic units continues to be an eligible use of SLFRF funds under the final rule. For 282