The Westchester Brief | 04.02.26: 27,000 Septic Systems, One Water Supply

Send us Fan MailIN-PLAYER SHOW NOTESTwenty-seven thousand septic systems sit beneath Westchester properties in the New York City watershed. An estimated 10% are failing, leaking fecal bacteria, viruses, and nitrates into the drinking water supply for millions. The county just launched a $3.5 million program offering interest-free loans up to $49,999 with no money upfront. The question is whether it's enough as federal protections erode. Plus: Northwell acquires 240 Optum surgeons, the Prevailing Wage Act, and the Conservation District's expanded work plan.In This Episode:0:00 Cold Open: 27,000 septic systems on top of NYC's water0:40 The $3.5 million Septic Rehabilitation Program1:30 How the interest-free loan works2:30 Twelve watershed communities and the scope of failure3:15 164 sewage spills since 2010 and federal rollbacks4:00 1997 Memorandum of Agreement and state funding4:30 Quick Hits: Northwell-Optum deal, Prevailing Wage Act, Conservation District6:15 Closing remarksSubscribe on YouTube for the video version of The Westchester Brief with full timestamps.Support the showI Live Here Westchester is a production of I Live Here Media.We spotlight the voices, visionaries, and stories that make Westchester County more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.Have a guest suggestion or want to partner with us?Email: [email protected]: www.iliveheremedia.comFollow us on Instagram: @iliveheremediaSubscribe, rate, and share to support local storytelling.