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New York City Council

Committee on Environmental Protection, Resiliency and Waterfronts

Oct 28, 2024

·

01:00 PM

3 hr 49 min

Summary

A hearing on DEP's efforts to maintain drinking water quality and the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD) for NYC's unfiltered Catskill/Delaware water supply.

Discussions focused on challenges to maintaining the FAD, including climate change impacts and wildlife management, as well as concerns about the city's practice of charging 'rental payments' to the Water Board.

Several bills were discussed, including measures to:

  • Notify ratepayers about rental payments
  • Install more public drinking fountains
  • Address groundwater flooding in Southeast Queens
  • Increase transparency on DEP infrastructure work

Features testimony from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Independent Budget Office (IBO), and the public.

Meeting chapters

Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.

REMARKS

Introduction to the oversight hearing on DEP's efforts to maintain NYC's drinking water quality

Council Member Jim Gennaro, Chair of the Committee on Environment Protection, Resiliency, and Waterfronts, introduces the oversight hearing on DEP's efforts to maintain the quality of New York City's drinking …

0:01:06

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23 sec

REMARKS

History and importance of the Filtration Avoidance Determination for NYC

Council Member Gennaro provides a detailed history of how New York City obtained its Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD) from the EPA in 1997. He explains the challenges and negotiations involved …

0:01:30

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125 sec

REMARKS

Overview of New York City's potable water infrastructure

Council Member Gennaro provides an overview of New York City's impressive potable water infrastructure, highlighting its scale and importance. - NYC's water system collects about 1 billion gallons of water …

0:03:35

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45 sec

REMARKS

Explanation of Filtration Avoidance Determination requirements and challenges

Council Member Gennaro provides a detailed explanation of the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD) requirements and the challenges involved in maintaining it. He emphasizes the rarity and importance of the FAD …

0:04:21

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5 min

REMARKS

Discussion of Water Board rental payments and their impact on water rates

Council Member Gennaro addresses the issue of 'rental payments' that the administration has requested from the New York City Water Board. He criticizes this practice as a misuse of water …

0:09:47

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3 min

REMARKS

Introduction of water-related bills and resolutions

Council Member Gennaro introduces several bills and resolutions related to water infrastructure, transparency, and public notification. These include: - Intro 816: Requires DEP to notify ratepayers when the city requests …

0:12:49

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3 min

REMARKS

Council Member Keith Powers discusses Introduction 900 to increase public drinking fountains

Council Member Keith Powers presents Introduction 900, a bill to increase access to drinking fountains and water bottle refill stations in public spaces across New York City. He emphasizes the …

0:17:01

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162 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Robert F. Holden presents Intro 225 on DEP infrastructure transparency

Council Member Robert F. Holden presents his bill, Intro 225, which would require the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to publish information on its website about infrastructure work requests and …

0:19:52

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129 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Nantasha Williams presents Intro 1067-A to address groundwater flooding

Council Member Nantasha Williams presents Intro 1067-A, a bill designed to address groundwater flooding issues in New York City, particularly in Southeast Queens. She explains the history of the problem, …

0:22:14

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3 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and overview of NYC water supply system

Commissioner Rohit T Aggarwala introduces himself and provides an overview of New York City's water supply system. He describes the network of reservoirs and the sources of the city's water. …

0:27:47

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79 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Explanation of the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD)

The commissioner explains the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD) and its significance for New York City's water supply. He describes how the FAD allows the city to avoid filtering water from …

0:29:06

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71 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

History and implementation of the Filtration Avoidance Determination

The commissioner provides a historical overview of the FAD and its implementation in New York City. He explains the regulatory framework and the various agreements involved. - The FAD was …

0:30:17

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135 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Cornerstone programs of the FAD: Land acquisition

The commissioner describes the land acquisition program, which is one of the three cornerstone programs of the FAD. This program aims to preserve pristine landscapes that produce high-quality source water. …

0:32:33

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42 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Cornerstone programs of the FAD: Wastewater treatment

The commissioner outlines the wastewater treatment program, which is the second cornerstone program of the FAD. This program addresses wastewater from the population in the watershed. - DEP funded the …

0:33:15

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31 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Cornerstone programs of the FAD: Agricultural runoff management

The commissioner describes the agricultural runoff management program, which is the third cornerstone program of the FAD. This program addresses pollution from farms in the watershed. - The program works …

0:33:46

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47 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Role of watershed partners in implementing FAD programs

The commissioner explains the crucial role of watershed partners in implementing the FAD programs. These partners receive funds from DEP and carry out various programs in the watershed. - Key …

0:34:34

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26 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Recent reviews and updates to the Filtration Avoidance Determination

The commissioner outlines recent reviews and updates to the FAD, including the midterm review and changes to the land acquisition program. - The midterm review of the FAD was completed, …

0:35:01

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36 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DEP Police Department's role in watershed protection

The commissioner explains the critical role of the DEP Police Department in protecting the watershed and water infrastructure. He also highlights challenges faced by the department. - DEP Police patrol …

0:35:38

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95 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DEP's relationship with watershed communities

The commissioner highlights DEP's positive relationship with watershed communities and the agency's contributions to the local economy and quality of life. - DEP is held in high esteem by watershed …

0:37:14

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88 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Future challenges to maintaining the Filtration Avoidance Determination

The commissioner outlines future challenges to maintaining the FAD and emphasizes the need for the FAD to evolve based on emerging threats and scientific evidence. - The FAD is not …

0:38:42

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4 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DEP's perspective on Intro 33: Notification of water service work

The commissioner presents DEP's perspective on Intro 33, which would require notification about planned work affecting water service. He outlines current practices and potential challenges with the proposed legislation. - …

0:42:54

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72 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DEP's perspective on Intro 225: Website for DEP operations information

The commissioner presents DEP's perspective on Intro 225, which would require a website with schedules and information on DEP operations. He outlines current information-sharing practices and concerns about the proposed …

0:44:07

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66 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DEP's perspective on Intro 816: Notification of rental payments

The commissioner presents DEP's perspective on Intro 816, which would require notification about Water Board rental payments. He outlines concerns and alternative approaches to achieving the bill's objectives. - DEP …

0:45:14

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82 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DEP's perspective on Intro 900: Installation of drinking fountains

The commissioner presents DEP's perspective on Intro 900, which would require the installation of 500 new drinking fountains. He outlines the agency's concerns about the feasibility and costs of the …

0:46:36

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57 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DEP's perspective on Intro 1067-A: Groundwater flooding in Southeast Queens

The commissioner presents DEP's perspective on Intro 1067-A, which addresses groundwater flooding issues in Southeast Queens. He outlines current efforts and concerns about the proposed legislation. - DEP has been …

0:47:34

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127 sec

Q&A

Inquiry about water bottle refill stations and drinking fountains

Council Member Powers inquires about the status of water bottle refill stations and drinking fountains in New York City. Commissioner Aggarwala explains that DEP does not provide or maintain drinking …

0:50:34

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45 sec

Q&A

DEP's concerns about expanding its role in providing drinking fountains

Council Member Powers asks about DEP's concerns regarding the proposed legislation to install more water bottle refill stations. Commissioner Aggarwala explains the challenges of expanding DEP's scope of activities. - …

0:51:19

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77 sec

Q&A

DEP's role in providing water access through Water on the Go stations

Council Member Powers inquires about DEP's role in providing water access, specifically mentioning Water on the Go stations. Commissioner Aggarwala explains the purpose and limitations of these mobile water stations. …

0:52:36

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114 sec

Q&A

Staffing and budget considerations for water access programs

Council Member Powers inquires about staffing changes and budget considerations that have led to scaling back Water on the Go stations. Commissioner Aggarwala explains the financial constraints and priorities of …

0:54:31

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69 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Powers' final remarks on expanding water access

Council Member Powers concludes the discussion by emphasizing the need for expanding water access in the city and calling for collaboration between agencies and the council to achieve this goal. …

0:55:40

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126 sec

Q&A

Discussion of Intro 225: Online infrastructure work information

Council Member Holden and Commissioner Aggarwala discuss the feasibility of implementing Intro 225, which requires DEP to post infrastructure work information online. They explore current data availability and potential ways …

0:57:55

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160 sec

Q&A

Challenges with catch basin maintenance and water quality issues

Council Member Holden describes ongoing issues with catch basin cleaning, water discoloration, and the need for better communication about infrastructure work affecting water quality. Commissioner Aggarwala acknowledges these concerns and …

1:00:35

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115 sec

Q&A

Challenges in implementing online tracking and sinkhole responsibilities

Council Member Holden and Commissioner Aggarwala discuss the challenges of implementing an online tracking system for infrastructure work and complaints. They also address the complexities of dealing with sinkholes and …

1:02:31

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78 sec

REMARKS

Issues with manhole covers and inter-agency coordination

Council Member Holden highlights ongoing issues with manhole covers after street paving and the confusion between DOT and DEP responsibilities. He emphasizes the need for better tracking and coordination between …

1:03:49

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65 sec

Q&A

DEP's efforts to address groundwater flooding in Southeast Queens

Council Member Nantasha Williams inquires about DEP's progress in identifying and assisting properties affected by groundwater flooding in Queens Community Districts 12 and 13. Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala explains the …

1:05:49

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160 sec

Q&A

Feasibility of reopening pumping stations in Southeast Queens

Council Member Williams inquires about the possibility of reopening pumping stations in Southeast Queens to address flooding issues. Commissioner Aggarwala explains the challenges and infeasibility of restarting the old wells. …

1:08:37

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128 sec

Q&A

Retrofit assistance program for flood mitigation in New York City

Council Member Williams inquires about the HCR resilient retrofit program and its potential to assist homeowners in New York City with flood mitigation. Commissioner Aggarwala discusses the current status of …

1:10:48

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3 min

Q&A

Council Member Marmorato questions DEP Commissioner on storm water flooding prevention funding

Council Member Kristy Marmorato engages in a heated discussion with DEP Commissioner Rohit T Aggarwala about funding for storm water flooding prevention in New York City. Marmorato expresses concern about …

1:14:33

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3 min

Q&A

Council Member Zhuang discusses flooding issues and language access for reporting

Council Member Susan Zhuang raises concerns about flooding in her district and the accuracy of flood reporting, especially for non-English speakers. Commissioner Aggarwala explains DEP's flood mapping process and language …

1:18:37

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103 sec

Q&A

Council Member Zhuang inquires about electricity blackouts and infrastructure concerns

Council Member Susan Zhuang raises concerns about frequent electricity blackouts in her district and questions the infrastructure's capacity to support the 'City of Yes' initiative. The discussion is deemed off-topic …

1:20:19

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96 sec

Q&A

Council Member Zhuang addresses coordination between DEP and DOT for street repairs

Council Member Susan Zhuang echoes concerns about confusion between DEP and DOT responsibilities for street repairs. Commissioner Aggarwala explains a successful joint program between DEP and DOT for coordinated street …

1:21:56

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144 sec

Q&A

Discussion on Intro 1067-A and citywide groundwater flooding measurement

Council Member Avilés inquires about DEP's practices in measuring groundwater flooding across New York City, referencing Intro 1067-A. Commissioner Aggarwala explains DEP's current limitations and ongoing efforts. - DEP does …

1:24:30

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86 sec

Q&A

Timeline and expectations for the DEP-USGS groundwater study partnership

Council Member Avilés inquires about the timeline and milestones for the DEP's partnership with the US Geological Survey (USGS) on groundwater studies. Commissioner Aggarwala provides details on the project's progress …

1:25:58

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33 sec

Q&A

Effective infrastructure interventions for groundwater flooding management

Council Member Avilés asks about effective infrastructure interventions for groundwater flooding. Commissioner Aggarwala explains that while DEP is not directly responsible for managing groundwater tables, he provides information on common …

1:26:31

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105 sec

Q&A

Building standards and government regulation for groundwater management

Council Member Avilés and Commissioner Aggarwala discuss the intersection of building standards and government regulation in addressing groundwater issues. They explore the potential need for updated standards in light of …

1:28:16

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78 sec

Q&A

Introduction and background on Kensico Reservoir's importance

Council Member Gennaro introduces the topic of Kensico Reservoir, referencing its 10 square mile watershed and its critical role in the water supply system. He asks about the current status …

1:29:46

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139 sec

Q&A

Land acquisition and protection measures for Kensico Reservoir

DEP officials discuss the prioritization of land acquisition around Kensico Reservoir and various protection measures implemented to safeguard water quality. - DEP is focusing on high-priority land acquisition areas, with …

1:32:04

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3 min

Q&A

Challenges to maintaining the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD)

DEP officials discuss the main challenges to maintaining the Filtration Avoidance Determination, focusing on the critical role of Kensico Reservoir and emerging threats. - Kensico Reservoir is identified as a …

1:35:44

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111 sec

Q&A

Wildlife management challenges in the watershed

DEP officials discuss the specific wildlife management challenges in the watershed and measures taken to mitigate their impact on water quality. - Main concerns are white-tailed deer, raccoons, and other …

1:37:36

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3 min

Q&A

Impact of Westchester County Airport on NYC's water quality

Council Member Gennaro inquires about the current impact of Westchester County Airport on New York City's water quality. Commissioner Aggarwala explains that while the airport has long been recognized as …

1:41:07

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43 sec

Q&A

Process for reauthorizing the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD) in 2027

Council Member Gennaro inquires about the steps being taken for the reauthorization of the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD) in 2027. Commissioner Aggarwala explains that the process began about a year …

1:41:52

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166 sec

REMARKS

Collaboration with environmental groups and stakeholders on FAD renewal

Commissioner Aggarwala explains the DEP's approach to collaborating with environmental groups and other stakeholders on the FAD renewal process. While not formalized, there are ongoing conversations with DOH and DEC. …

1:44:38

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65 sec

REMARKS

Land acquisition permit renewal process and stakeholder involvement

David Warne, Assistant Commissioner for Bureau of Water Supply, explains the land acquisition permit renewal process and stakeholder involvement. The current permit, issued by New York State DEC, allows NYC …

1:45:46

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52 sec

Q&A

Balancing NYC water needs with upstate community concerns

Council Member Gennaro raises concerns about balancing NYC's water needs with upstate community interests, particularly in relation to land acquisition and DEC's role. Commissioner Aggarwala addresses these concerns, emphasizing the …

1:46:39

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3 min

Q&A

Potential state pressure on DEP to use reservoirs for flood control

Council Member Gennaro raises a hypothetical scenario about potential state pressure on DEP to use reservoirs for upstream flood control. Commissioner Aggarwala addresses the complex dynamics involved and emphasizes the …

1:49:48

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131 sec

REMARKS

DEP's focus on water quality science and community engagement

Commissioner Aggarwala elaborates on DEP's focus on water quality science and community engagement. He emphasizes the importance of basing decisions on scientific evidence while also addressing community concerns and adapting …

1:52:00

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3 min

Q&A

Status of the Coalition of Watershed Towns

Council Member Gennaro inquires about the current status of the Coalition of Watershed Towns (CWT), an organization that has historically represented upstate communities in negotiations with NYC regarding watershed issues. …

1:55:15

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108 sec

Q&A

Staffing issues with DEP police and pension concerns

Commissioner Aggarwala addresses staffing issues within the DEP police force, particularly focusing on recent graduation numbers and pension concerns. Council Member Gennaro raises questions about potential legislative solutions and the …

1:57:05

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93 sec

Q&A

Comparison to Portland, Oregon's loss of FAD due to cryptosporidium

Council Member Gennaro inquires about the comparison between NYC's water system and Portland, Oregon's loss of its Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD) due to cryptosporidium detection. David Warne, Assistant Commissioner for …

1:58:38

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131 sec

Q&A

Updates on the Hillview Reservoir covering project

Council Member Gennaro asks for updates on the long-standing issue of covering the Hillview Reservoir. Commissioner Aggarwala provides a detailed explanation of the current status and future plans for the …

2:00:51

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164 sec

REMARKS

Historical context of NYC's watershed protection efforts

Council Member Gennaro provides historical context for NYC's watershed protection efforts, reflecting on his personal involvement in the process since 1990. He emphasizes the unique nature of NYC's watershed protection …

2:03:37

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86 sec

Q&A

Potential cost and logistics of building a filtration plant for Catskill/Delaware water supply

Council Member Gennaro asks about the estimated cost and logistics of building a full filtration plant for the Catskill/Delaware water supply. Commissioner Aggarwala provides a detailed response, highlighting the enormous …

2:05:04

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3 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and background of IBO's water system research

Jordan Paige, an environmental budget and policy analyst for the New York City Independent Budget Office (IBO), introduces the purpose of their testimony. The IBO recently published a report on …

2:18:17

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32 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

History of NYC water and sewer system financial structure

The testimony outlines the historical changes in the financial structure of New York City's water and sewer system following the 1970s fiscal crisis. These changes were implemented to improve the …

2:18:50

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34 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Rental payments to the city's general fund

The testimony explains the concept of rental payments from the Water Board to the city's general fund, including their original purpose and how they have evolved over time. - Rental …

2:19:24

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54 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Recent history of rental payment requests

The testimony outlines the recent history of rental payment requests by different NYC administrations, highlighting variations in approach and amounts requested. - From 1985 to 2015, mayors consistently requested rental …

2:20:19

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93 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Impact of rental payments on water rates

The testimony explains how rental payments affect water rates for New York City residents and property owners, and the uncertainty this creates in the rate-setting process. - The Water Board …

2:21:53

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73 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Water billing structures in NYC

The testimony provides an overview of the water billing structures used in New York City, focusing on the two most common types. - New York City has four billing structures …

2:23:10

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35 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Comparison of metered and MCP billing

The testimony presents findings from the IBO's analysis comparing metered water billing to the Multifamily Conservation Program (MCP) billing structure. - Using 2020 water bill data, 82% of apartment buildings …

2:23:46

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50 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Implications of MCP billing

The testimony concludes by discussing the broader implications of the Multifamily Conservation Program (MCP) billing structure, including its potential regressive nature and impact on water conservation efforts. - New York …

2:24:38

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58 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Gennaro appreciates IBO's stance on water rental payments

Council Member James F. Gennaro expresses gratitude to the Independent Budget Office (IBO) for joining the opposition to water rental payments. He mentions his efforts to address this issue, including …

2:25:37

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26 sec

REMARKS

Explanation of the water rental payment system and its history

Council Member Gennaro provides a detailed explanation of the water rental payment system and its historical development in New York City. He outlines how the payment structure has changed over …

2:26:03

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81 sec

REMARKS

Current budget concerns and questions about water rate funding sources

Council Member Gennaro raises concerns about the current budget year's rental payment and its impact on water rates. He questions the discrepancy between the amount collected from ratepayers and the …

2:27:25

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142 sec

REMARKS

Historical context and criticism of the water rental payment mechanism

Council Member Gennaro provides historical context for the water rental payment system, drawing from his experience working at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in 1985. He criticizes the …

2:29:46

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105 sec

REMARKS

Call for transparency and collaboration on the water rental payment issue

Council Member Gennaro concludes by emphasizing the need for transparency and collaboration in addressing the water rental payment issue. He expresses appreciation for the Independent Budget Office's (IBO) involvement and …

2:31:31

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167 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Victoria Leung, Staff Attorney at Riverkeeper

Victoria Leung from Riverkeeper testified in support of Intro 816 and Resolution 83, emphasizing the organization's opposition to the rental payment charged to the Water Board. She highlighted the importance …

2:38:29

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147 sec

Q&A

Council member Gennaro allows Victoria Leung to complete her testimony

Council Member James F. Gennaro realizes that Victoria Leung from Riverkeeper needs to leave and allows her to finish her testimony. He asks her to convey her remaining thoughts to …

2:40:58

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58 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by William Scarborough, President of Addisleigh Park Civic Organization and Southeast Queens Residents Environmental Justice Coalition

William Scarborough, representing Addisleigh Park Civic Organization and Southeast Queens Residents Environmental Justice Coalition, testified in support of Intro 1067-A to address groundwater flooding issues in Southeast Queens. He explained …

2:42:14

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127 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Eric Goldstein, Attorney at Natural Resources Defense Council, on NYC Water Supply and Related Legislation

Eric Goldstein from the Natural Resources Defense Council testified in support of Intros 816, 900, and the goals of Intro 1067-A. He emphasized the importance of NYC's water supply as …

2:44:42

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133 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Niki Cross, Staff Attorney at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest (NYLPI)

Niki Cross, a staff attorney from New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, testified in strong support of Intro 1067-A. The bill aims to provide financial assistance and information to …

2:47:08

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126 sec

Q&A

Discussion on support for Intro 1067

Council Member Gennaro initiates a discussion about Intro 1067, noting it seems to be a good day for the bill. He asks the participants if they have been coordinating their …

2:49:14

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83 sec

Q&A

Discussions with administration and history of groundwater flooding

Council Member Gennaro inquires about meetings between the community and the administration regarding flooding issues. William Scarborough explains the long-standing nature of the problem and the city's efforts to address …

2:50:39

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119 sec

Q&A

Current status of well pumping and water disposal

Council Member Gennaro inquires about the current status of well pumping in the former Jamaica Water Service area. William Scarborough explains that information is limited, but some pumping occurred in …

2:52:39

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91 sec

Q&A

Need for studies and potential solutions

Council Member Gennaro, drawing on his background in geology, discusses the need for studies to determine optimal pumping rates and potential solutions for groundwater issues. The conversation extends to water …

2:54:10

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3 min

Q&A

Concluding remarks on Intro 1067 and future engagement

The discussion concludes with a focus on the benefits of Intro 1067 and Council Member Gennaro's commitment to further engagement on the issue. The legislation is praised for its dual …

2:57:43

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98 sec

Q&A

Council Member Gennaro and Eric Goldstein discuss groundwater issues and water rental payments

Council Member James F. Gennaro and Eric Goldstein from the Natural Resources Defense Council engage in a discussion about groundwater problems in Southeast Queens and the city's water rental payment …

2:59:22

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151 sec

REMARKS

Explanation of the rental payment system and its impact on the city budget

Council Member James F. Gennaro explains the rental payment system in NYC's budget and its impact on the city's finances. He describes how the mayor includes a large sum for …

3:01:53

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86 sec

REMARKS

Challenges in eliminating or reducing the rental payment

Council Member Gennaro discusses the difficulties faced by the City Council in trying to eliminate or reduce the rental payment in the city budget. He emphasizes the practical and political …

3:03:19

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35 sec

REMARKS

Impact of rental payments on water rates and DEP's ability to fund projects

Council Member Gennaro explains how the rental payment system affects water rates and the Department of Environmental Protection's ability to fund necessary projects. He highlights the financial burden this system …

3:03:54

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3 min

REMARKS

Efforts to build a coalition to eliminate rental payments

Council Member Gennaro outlines his plans to build a coalition to eliminate the rental payment system. He discusses strategies for addressing the issue at both the city and state levels. …

3:07:01

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48 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Gennaro discusses strategies to address Water Board rental payments

Council Member James F. Gennaro expresses his concerns about the city's practice of charging rental payments to the Water Board. He discusses the need for public pressure on the mayor …

3:07:49

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4 min

Q&A

Planning a coalition to address Water Board rental payments

Council Member Gennaro and Eric Goldstein discuss forming a coalition to address the issue of rental payments to the Water Board. They agree on the need for a broad-based effort …

3:12:00

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156 sec

Q&A

Discussion of Introduction 900 on public drinking fountains

Eric Goldstein presents NRDC's strong support for Introduction 900, which would require the installation of 500 new drinking water fountains in public locations around New York City. He outlines the …

3:14:36

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109 sec

Q&A

Council member addresses administrative matters and sets up next panel

Council Member Gennaro wraps up the previous panel's testimony and prepares for the next panel. He discusses various administrative matters, including: - Addressing final comments from New York Lawyers - …

3:16:25

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6 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Maité Duquela, Climate Policy Fellow at Waterfront Alliance

Maité Duquela, representing Waterfront Alliance, testified in support of Intro 816, Resolution 83, and Intro 1067-A. She expressed opposition to the city charging the Water Board for rental payments and …

3:23:16

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109 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by George Jordan on Groundwater Flooding Issues

George Jordan testifies in support of Intro 1067-A, sharing his mother's experience with continuous groundwater flooding that requires constant pump operation. He highlights the financial burden on homeowners due to …

3:25:46

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85 sec

REMARKS

Council member acknowledges groundwater flooding issue and importance of witness testimony

Council Member James F. Gennaro acknowledges the severity of the groundwater flooding issue in Southeast Queens and emphasizes the importance of the witness's testimony. He recognizes that this problem was …

3:27:13

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66 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Jane Selden, Chair of Committee on Waste Reduction at 350 NYC, on Intro 900

Jane Selden, representing 350 NYC, testifies in support of Intro 900, which aims to install new public drinking fountains in New York City. She emphasizes the environmental impact of single-use …

3:28:57

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147 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on Water Infrastructure Bills

Christopher Leon Johnson testified in support of Intro 225 and Intro 900, while raising concerns about accessibility and suggesting improvements to water fountains in City Hall. - Expressed support for …

3:31:28

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134 sec

Q&A

Discussion on accessibility of Intro 225 information

Council Member Gennaro addresses Christopher Leon Johnson's concerns about the accessibility of information in Intro 225 (Holden bill) for those without computer access. Gennaro suggests contacting Councilmember Holden directly for …

3:33:44

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71 sec

Q&A

Discussion on upgrading water fountains in City Council chambers

Council Member Gennaro and Christopher Leon Johnson discuss the possibility of upgrading water fountains in City Council chambers to more modern, bottle-filling versions. They also touch on the use of …

3:34:54

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132 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Alia Soomro, Deputy Director for New York City Policy at New York League of Conservation Voters

Alia Soomro from the New York League of Conservation Voters expressed disappointment with the inclusion of the DEP water rental payment in the FY 25 budget. She argued that this …

3:39:00

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146 sec

Q&A

Council member discusses history and issues of water rental payments

Council Member Gennaro expresses gratitude to the New York League of Conservation Voters for joining the fight against water rental payments. He recounts his 20-year struggle against this practice, explaining …

3:41:26

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41 sec

REMARKS

Council member outlines strategy to eliminate water rental payments

Council Member Gennaro outlines a strategy to eliminate water rental payments, emphasizing the need for action at both the state and city levels. He explains the challenges of removing the …

3:42:07

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73 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Matt Gove, Mid-Atlantic Policy Manager of Surfrider Foundation, on Support for Intro 900

Matt Gove from Surfrider Foundation testifies in support of Intro 900, which proposes to install new public drinking fountains in New York City. He argues that this initiative would provide …

3:43:34

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83 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Gennaro supports Intro 900 for more water fountains

Council Member James F. Gennaro expresses gratitude for the testimony from the Surfrider Foundation and voices support for Intro 900, which proposes adding 500 new water fountains in New York …

3:44:58

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26 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Rachana Shah, Co-President of Beyond Plastics Queens

Rachana Shah, Co-President of Beyond Plastics Queens, strongly supports Intro 900 for installing public drinking fountains in New York City. She emphasizes the importance of easy access to water for …

3:45:44

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133 sec

REMARKS

Council member Gennaro responds to Beyond Plastics testimony

Council member James F. Gennaro responds to the testimony from Beyond Plastics Queens. He expresses appreciation for their work, mentions his familiarity with Judith Enck, and voices support for efforts …

3:47:58

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39 sec

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