ALBANY — A group of Duane Lake residents has faced an uphill battle in the years they’ve spent agitating for inclusion in New York’s septic system replacement program — and it’s not over yet.
A bill that would have automatically enrolled the 117-acre reservoir in the statewide initiative passed the Senate in the waning days of the legislative session but failed to make it through the Assembly. Looking ahead, bill sponsor state Sen. Pat Fahy is considering other avenues to help homeowners replace the antiquated septic systems that can contribute to water pollution.
“Sometimes it’s the squeaky wheel — and God knows, I’m one of the squeakiest,” Fahy said. “If we can’t get additional funds, and that would be my first choice, they’re going to have to look at other criteria, probably where the lake is most at risk or where the septic system is most aged.”…