Septic system debate swirls around money

As the County Council considers a sweeping plan to cut the pollution emitted by septic systems, the debate tomorrow night will center on dollars and cents, not environmental policy.

Three councilmen have proposed requiring homeowners near the waterfront to replace failing septic systems with enhanced ones that cut nitrogen pollution in half.

Though widely considered an excellent policy for the environment, the plan has become mired in questions over whether state money will be available to help homeowners defray the costs.

Sponsors point to a $6 million annual stream of state grant money - available to pay for most of...