Clean Water Trust Oversight Committee Public Input Meeting
The committee meeting, identified as the second of three public input sessions mandated by law, focused on gathering public feedback to shape the draft strategic plan framework for the Clean Water Trust. Key discussion points included the vision and mission of the plan, which addresses the state's water quality standards, needs assessment, and project implementation. The discussion covered leveraging Clean Water Trust funds alongside state, federal (like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law), and ARPA funding to implement clean water projects, rebuild infrastructure, prioritize low-income and underserved communities, utilize green infrastructure, and improve resilience to climate impacts. Specific required elements for the strategic plan framework were reviewed, such as multi-year water quality goals, challenges like matching funds, and prioritized projects including the Clean Water Initiative for underserved communities. The committee also sought input on drinking water testing priorities and minimum funding levels for wastewater and drinking water projects benefiting low-income residents, as well as strategies to support consumer affordability regarding monthly bills. The roles of various stakeholders and advisory councils in providing assistance and input for the annual reporting, known as the Mulroney Report, were also outlined.