PFOS and Catskill Aqueduct water reimbursement amendments
Summary
The water fund depends on state contracts reimbursing PFAS-related costs. If those contracts ever lapse, a study found the city might need an unconscionable 80–90% water rate hike. Rates took a 0% break in 2026 with increases planned for 2027 onward.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 4
- Last 30 days
- 0
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Sep 22, 2026.
Impact analysis
Potential 80–90% water rate increase if state reimbursement contracts are not renewed.
Water customers who keep rates lower while the state covers contamination-related costs.
Ratepayers would face steep increases if the state withdraws support.
Mentions & discussions (4)
City Council - Sep 22, 2026
Kelson explained how PFAS water-contamination litigation costs are tracked in a dedicated water-fund line, and the mayor asked for the reimbursement records for the Catskill Aqueduct water the city has had to buy since Washington Lake was contaminated in 2016.
City Council - Apr 27, 2026
Two state contract amendments to reimburse the city for water costs — one for Catskill Aqueduct water purchases and one for the extra cost of providing an alternative drinking-water source because of PFOS contamination.
City Council - Apr 23, 2026
Two DEC contract amendments bring nearly $9.3 million in state reimbursement for Catskill Aqueduct water and PFOS-related expenses, keeping water rate increases down for the next two years.
City Council - Mar 5, 2026
The water fund depends on state contracts reimbursing PFAS-related costs. If those contracts ever lapse, a study found the city might need an unconscionable 80–90% water rate hike. Rates took a 0% break in 2026 with increases planned for 2027 onward.
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