FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 23, 2026

Contact:
Susan Zacharenko
Email: office@northcountryruraldevelopment.org
Phone: 518-585-6366

Essex County Homeowners Encouraged to Apply for Wells and Septic Assistance Program

Essex County, NY – Essex County homeowners may be eligible for financial assistance to address critical water and wastewater infrastructure needs through the Essex County CDBG Wells and Septic Program.

Funded through the New York State Community Development Block Grant Program, the initiative assists eligible low- and moderate-income homeowners with improvements that enhance the safety, reliability, and functionality of their homes’ drinking water and wastewater systems.

Eligible improvements may include:

• Private well installation or replacement
• Septic system installation or replacement
• Connections to eligible public water or sewer systems
• Related plumbing improvements
• Lead water service line replacement

To qualify, applicants must:

• Own and occupy a home located in Essex County
• Have a household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income
• Maintain valid homeowners insurance
• Be current on all property and school taxes

Homes receiving assistance through the program will be subject to a minimum five-year affordability period, as required by the New York State Community Development Block Grant Program.

“Access to safe drinking water and a properly functioning wastewater system is essential to the health, safety, and stability of every household,” said Nicole Justice Green, President and CEO of the North Country Rural Development Coalition. “I want to personally thank Essex County Board of Supervisors Chairman Steve McNally, County Manager Mike Mascarenas, the entire Board of Supervisors, and the Low- to Moderate-Income Housing Task Force for their continued investment in housing and infrastructure for Essex County residents. Their partnership and commitment made it possible for the County to compete successfully for these limited funds.”

“These Community Development Block Grant dollars are highly competitive and could have been awarded to another county. Essex County’s continued commitment to identifying local needs and investing in strong housing programs is what allows us to bring these resources home to our residents.” said Dr. Katie Long, Deputy Director and CDBG Program Manager for North Country Rural Development Coalition. 

Homeowners who believe they may qualify are strongly encouraged to apply now to be placed on the program waitlist. Funding is limited, and assistance will be provided to eligible applicants in accordance with program guidelines and the availability of funds.

The North Country Rural Development Coalition will begin to make additional program awards within the month in addition to those already on the waiting list.

2026 Essex County 80% AMI limits

Link: https://www.huduser.gov/datasets

Apply online:
https://form.jotform.com/251904759877071

For additional information about eligibility requirements or to request an application, contact:

North Country Rural Development Coalition
Phone: 518-585-6366
Email: office@northcountryruraldevelopment.org
Website: northcountryruraldevelopment.org

About the Program

The Essex County CDBG Wells and Septic Program is funded through the New York State Community Development Block Grant Program. The program supports essential infrastructure improvements benefiting low- and moderate-income households by helping ensure access to safe drinking water, effective wastewater treatment, and healthier living conditions throughout Essex County.