Plans and Commitments

1. Launch a new committee to help articulate an action agenda for how New Jersey should address PFAS and Emerging Contaminants. 
2. Gather input and work draft a white paper that includes policy recommendations and planned actions and commitments from key stakeholders.

Asset Management & Finance Committee 

1. Pursue funding and conduct research to assess the feasibility of a wastewater accountability framework (similar to the Water Quality Accountability Act (WQAA)) and develop informed recommendations.
2. Leverage newly available water audit data captured under the WQAA to identify and promote best practices. Host a webinar to showcase high-performing utilities and their strategies.
3. Explore research on shared services and regionalization, and identify potential funding sources and support opportunities.
4. Host a meeting in July with the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank to review the State Fiscal Year (SFY)26 project pipeline, discuss projects deferred to SFY27, assess remaining funds and oversubscription, and identify opportunities to advance projects awaiting funding.
5. Review and comment on the SFY27 Clean Water and Drinking Water Intended Use Plans and other public comment opportunities aligned with committee goals. 
6. Water Affordability: Continue collaborating with state partners to expand water affordability solutions and promote a coordinated statewide approach.
7. Stormwater Utilities: Encourage municipalities to consider creating stormwater utilities (facilitated by the Stormwater Utility Subcommittee)
   • Revise and distribute the Stormwater Utility presentation for members to use in local presentations.
   • Engage with New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)-funded communities to assess progress following feasibility study funding. Identify barriers and offer targeted support to advance SWU adoption in at least one more community.
   • Update the SWU resource center website to feature New Jersey case studies and promote them as best and promising practices for others to learn from.

1. Foster collaborative discussions to address 2026 Green Infrastructure challenges and opportunities. 
2. Identify and share funding opportunities for green infrastructure projects. 
3. Promote green infrastructure implementation best and promising strategies, as towns advance MS4 permits and related projects. 

Note: The Watershed Institute is providing backbone support for the GI committee.

1. Assess the potential of creative financing options, such as a bond initiative or stormwater fee, and develop recommendations and resources to encourage municipalities and utilities to address generational equity. 
2. Work with the Asset Management and Finance committee to articulate the long-term economic and societal benefits of major cost-effective projects, where cost-effectiveness is measured by costs relative to reduced CSOs and Combined Sewer System (CSS) backflows.
3. Support CSO municipalities and utilities in increasing visibility through education and social media campaigns. Emphasize the importance of upstream and downstream communities within the sewer system working together to address CSO flow issues.

1. Strengthen NJ’s Lead and Copper Rule by engaging in the open comment period.
2. Promote effective implementation and oversight of the lead disclosure law. 
3. Recommend effective distribution of Securing our Children’s Future Bond Act Funds.
4. Promote filter-first policies in NJ Schools and childcare facilities.
5. Promote lead service line efficiency measures for water systems that must replace lead service lines by 2031. 
6. ⁠Convene the Lead Service Line Implementation Workgroup: Facilitating guidance and best practices for New Jersey water systems.
7. Support Local Policy Work: Collaborate with Lead-Free NJ Community Hubs to inform and advance statewide implementation of lead service lines replacements.
8. ⁠Partner with the New Jersey Water Association to offer LSL workshop credits.
9. Pursue proactive filter distribution for the medicaid population through the 1115 Waiver.

1. Release the seventh version of the dashboard, including updating the lead resources pages, refining CSO metrics, adding a granular utility funding metric for systems where relevant, and providing easy access to information on 590 drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.
2. Design and create a CSO resource page within JWC that provides easy access to track the progress of CSO permittees in New Jersey.

Advance workforce initiatives with New Jersey Future, Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA), and Atlantic County Municipal Utilities Authority (ACMUA), via the Funder’s Network Partner for Place program, focusing on upskilling the existing workforce.

1. Host at least three education events/meetings to enhance understanding of debt, shared services, collaboration, climate resilience, and SRF funding/application processes. 
2. Promote best practices for innovative low-income discount programs to advance water affordability. 
3. Review and comment on the FY 2025/FY 2026 Intended Use Plan and other public comment opportunities aligned with committee goals. 
4. Encourage municipalities to consider creating stormwater utilities (facilitated by the Stormwater Utility Subcommittee)
   • Improve communication about stormwater utilities and promote available resources, including the “Stormwater Utilities Can Facilitate Green Infrastructure” paper, the SWU Resource Center, materials for CSO communities, and create a short informational video. 
   • Organize a webinar highlighting case studies from municipalities on feasibility studies.
   • Explore a regional approach for implementing stormwater utilities in New Jersey and assist utilities in defining stormwater management programs to meet community and regulatory needs.

1. Advance implementation of green infrastructure by highlighting local educational or volunteer opportunities and organize at least one in-person meeting/GI tour.
2. Elevate two green infrastructure success story examples to showcase effective GI practices to inspire and educate others.
3. Provide Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) and retrofit guidance for municipalities.

1. Work with NJDEP to ensure that the Jersey Water Works (JWW) “Smart CSO Control Plan” goals are reflected in the last two draft CSO permits, which include reviewing and developing comments for each regional permit. 
2. Identify and engage with at least two wastewater utilities related to their work on CSOs to gain insight, and elevate utility-level best practices. 
3. Collaborate and support Sewage-Free Streets and Rivers’ efforts around continued advocacy for the accelerated release of the final Long-Term Control Plans/five-year permits and monitor permit implementation progress.
4. Encourage NJDEP to require a CSO affordability analysis with and without typical SRF funding and stormwater fees with the goal of reducing timelines and increasing environmental and public health benefits. 

1. ⁠Convening the Lead Service Line Implementation Workgroup: Facilitating guidance and best practices for New Jersey water systems
2. Supporting Local Policy Work: Collaborate with Lead-Free NJ Community Hubs to inform and advance statewide implementation of lead service line
3. ⁠Supporting Clean Drinking Water: Ensuring safe water in schools and childcare facilities, elevating recommendations from the childcare report.
4. Partner with Jersey WaterCheck to update the lead resource page and publish a data report on the progress of LSL replacements in NJ.
5. Partner with the New Jersey Water Association to offer credits for LSL workshops.
6. Support Lead-Free NJ’s Advocacy Committee in enacting key legislative initiatives, such as disclosure of lead in drinking water at rental properties and lead-certified filters for Child Care Facilities (CCFs).

1. Release the sixth update of JWC metrics, including relevant data updates as needed.
2. Release short-form data story videos that educate the importance of water infrastructure, the costs involved, and success stories in infrastructure upgrades using JWC data in collaboration with JWW committees and other stakeholders.

We will not be convening the climate resilient committee in 2025. This committee will sunset, and work on climate resilience will be integrated into other committees.

1. Continue to increase awareness about careers in the water sector via communications strategies and connecting partners. Support Hudson County Community College (HCCC) Water Workforce initiative by connecting HCCC’s team to utility partners and identifying potential job opportunities for graduates through August. 
2. Host one “Water Workforce Briefing” meeting to continue uplifting what is happening in New Jersey, what is working, and identify the gaps. 
3. Publish a case study to highlight the Water Workforce Utility Program.

1. Review and develop comments on the proposed State Revolving Fund Year 2023 (SRFY 25) Water Infrastructure Investment Plan, which supports the goal of “Effective and Financially Sustainable Systems”. This aims to ensure that operating budgets and capital investment are adequate and affordable, resulting in systems that operate efficiently and in a state of good repair (completed).
2. Educate legislative staff and decision makers about congressionally directed funding (CDF), formerly known as earmarks, by sharing information via letter, newsletters, and social media. 
3. Launch a research/study on the long-term benefits of investing in water infrastructure.
4. Host a webinar highlighting strategies to create equitable rate structures that address low-income affordability issues while providing financial benefits to the utility, recruit at least one utility, and include community voices. 
5. Encourage municipalities to consider creating stormwater utilities (facilitated by the Stormwater Utility Subcommittee)
   1. Improve communications around Stormwater Utilities (SWUs).
      1. Issue a 2-4 minute Informational Video.
      2. Update the 2021 paper entitled “Stormwater Utilities Can Incentivize Green Infrastructure”.
      3. Explore existing or create new SWU resources for combined sewer overflow (CSO) communities.
      4. Promote the SWU Resource Center. 
   2. Support the exploration of a regional approach to operationalizing Stormwater Utilities in New Jersey. 

1. Connect communities to funding: Guide communities toward funding available for green infrastructure projects, and work with state and federal agencies to gather information on funding opportunities.
2. Increase access to GI resources: Explore how to offer green infrastructure resources in different languages. Work with JWW member organizations and identify advocacy groups to help elevate resources beyond JWW. 
3. Connect with communities through projects: Identify hands-on activities or in-person events to be present during and share resources. Host at least one in-person committee meeting with an educational component.

1. Work with NJDEP to ensure that the Jersey Water Works (JWW) “Smart CSO Control Plan” goals are reflected in the last two draft CSO permits, which include reviewing and developing comments for each regional permit. 
2. Share information with CSO decision makers about all available funding to lower total ratepayer costs and accelerate implementations.
3. Promote community engagement opportunities within CSO communities (i.e. CSO supplemental teams), uplifting NJDEP community engagement guidance, and continuous education about the CSO process. Work closely with Sewage-Free Streets and Rivers in their efforts.
4. Research and share promising practices in CSO management, including regional authority approaches (partnership role, shared services, affordability analysis with new funding). 
5. Encourage NJDEP to require a CSO affordability analysis with and without typical SRF funding and stormwater fees with the goal of reducing timelines and increasing environmental and public health benefits.

1. Convene Lead Service Line (LSL) Implementation Workgroup to identify and share best practices and provide recommendations to the Lead Free-NJ Water Advocacy Committee.
2. Partner with Jersey WaterCheck in updating the lead resource page to publish annual report on the progress of LSL replacements in NJ.
3. Partner with the New Jersey Water Association to offer credits for LSL workshops. Distribute printed copies of Primer for Mayors to business administrators and other local officials. Explore and educate stakeholders about implementation efficiency measures for equitable cost effectiveness on coordinating replacement programs, including resources for replacement of customer-owned LSLs. 
4. Revise and update recommendations and strategies to advance educational outreach, financial, and legislative initiatives described in the task force’s 2019 and 2021 reports. 
5. Support Lead-Free NJ’s Advocacy Committee in enacting key legislative initiatives, such as disclosure of lead in drinking water at rental properties and lead-certified filters for Child Care Facilities (CCFs). 
6. Create an LSLR regulatory lead communications toolkit for New Jersey’s water systems for regulatory lead communication.

1. Release the fifth update of JWC metrics, including relevant data updates as needed.
2. Launch and release short-form videos that educate the importance of water infrastructure, the costs involved, and success stories in infrastructure upgrades using JWC data in collaboration with JWW committees and other stakeholders.

1. Curate information about resources and promising practices to promote via JWW newsletters, website, and committee meetings. This will include promoting the EPA’s Creating Resilient Water Utilities Tool (CRWU) and regular “show and tell” committee agenda items. 
2. Review and develop comments on the Resilient Environments and Landscapes (REAL) portion of the New Jersey Protecting Against Climate Threat (NJ PACT) rules. 
3. Create or find a visual roadmap showing the continuum of least to most climate-resilient water utilities. Utilize that information to host a session for local government decision-makers focused on building climate resilience, linking to operational and capital needs, and showing a path toward funding for implementation. Potential avenues for the session include the JWW Membership Meeting or Annual Conference, the League of Municipalities Conference, the ANJEC Environmental Congress, and/or RPA’s annual conference.  
4. Explore the interest for existing programs (like GI champions, Green Teams, and Environmental Commissioners) to create climate resilience champions. Create guidance to establish climate resilience champions.

1. Recruit a diverse group of participants and facilitate a second cohort for the Water Workforce Development Program at Hudson County Community College (leveraging funds by Bank of America and PACE grant). 
2. Recommend ways to increase or enhance entry level opportunities, such as internships, in the water sector by sharing resources and offering one educational webinar or workshop.
3. Update the 2021 workforce program inventory to be published by April 2024. 
4. Create a new inventory that highlights at least ten K-12 curriculums/programs that support conversations around water, climate resilience, and green infrastructure with students. 
5. Create a campaign to increase awareness about careers in the water sector and connect those to national water awareness days.

1. Advance water and wastewater affordability for low-income customers by:
   1. Raising awareness of the Low Income Household Water Assistance (LIHWAP) Program to increase participation.
   2. Promoting and sharing the findings of the study, A New Jersey Affordability Methodology and Assessment for Drinking Water and Sewer Utility Costs.
   3. Creating a resource guide for NJ water/wastewater systems to develop local affordability solutions, including in support of new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines under the Clean Water Act.
   4. Working with New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to develop technical assistance and planning grants to seed innovative utility level affordability ideas in NJ.
2. Provide feedback on the NJDEP implementation of the Water Quality Accountability Act (WQAA) rules (to be issued in 2023). 
3. Expand information about all available funding dollars by developing an easy to understand factsheet. 
4. Submit comments on the proposed SRFY 24 Water Infrastructure Investment Plan. (This item has already been completed.)
5. Encourage municipalities to consider creating stormwater utilities by: 
   1. Finalizing an educational video explaining the need for and benefits of a stormwater utility. 
   2. Providing technical assistance office hours through the stormwater utilities subcommittee meeting.

1. Create a green infrastructure outreach guidance inventory for GI Champions that outlines materials, resources, presentations, and key takeaways based on the audience.
2. Collaborate with the Climate Resilience Committee on the New Jersey Protecting Against Climate Threats (NJ PACT) rules related to stormwater management and green infrastructure. 
3. Promote green infrastructure by curating Spanish resources and learning how bilingual speakers connect with their community on water-related issues.

1. Work with NJDEP to ensure that the Jersey Water Works (JWW) “Smart CSO Control Plan” goals are reflected in the next CSO permits, which include reviewing and developing comments for each regional permit. 
2. Continue collaboration with Sewage Free Streets and Rivers on promoting the public comment process, and educating and engaging community members.
3. Aid implementation of CSO permits by identifying and sharing funding opportunities for CSO permittees and communities.

1. Convene Lead Service Line (LSL) Implementation Workgroup to identify and share best practices by partnering with Jersey WaterCheck to publish an annual report on the progress of LSL replacements in NJ and Partnering with New Jersey Water Association to offer LSL workshops.
2. Publish a regular newsletter on lead in drinking water for mayors, business administrators, and other local officials. Explore and educate stakeholders about Implementation efficiency measures for equitable cost effectiveness replacement programs including resources for replacement of customer-owned LSLs. 
3. Refine and advance educational outreach, financial, and legislative initiatives described in the task force’s 2021 report on Lead in Drinking Water in Child Care Facilities. Publish a map of state-regulated child care facilities (SRCCFs) across NJ.
4. Support Lead-Free NJ’s Advocacy Committee in enacting key legislative initiatives, such as disclosure of lead in drinking water at rental properties and lead certified filters for Child Care Facilities(CCFs). 
5. Critically review the NJDEP’s proposed lead and copper rule, providing expert advice on issues such as service line inventory, replacement, and public education.

1. Build a visual roadmap showing the continuum of least to most resilient water utilities regarding flooding. Conduct utility interviews to inform the product.
2. Collaborate with the Green Infrastructure Committee to host a session for local government decision-makers focused on building climate resilience, utilizing the roadmap item, linking to operational and capital needs, and showing a path towards funding for implementation.
3. Gather input across the collaborative, especially from water utilities, on the Resilient Environments and Landscapes (REAL) portion of the NJ PACT rules once they are released and submit recommendations during the public comment period.

1. Define scope of work for and hire consultants under Bank of America grant by March 2023.
2. Create and facilitate a utility pilot water workforce program in partnership with one educational institution by December 2023.
3. Collaborate to create a water workforce pathway with aligned curriculum through the NJ Pathways to Career Opportunities initiative led by the NJ Council of County Colleges.
4. Increase visibility to the water workforce sector and continue cultivating partnerships.

1. Advance water/wastewater affordability for low-income customers by:
   1. Developing recommendations on the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program to the Department of Community Affairs based on insights from utilities.
   2. Promote and share the findings of the study, A New Jersey Affordability Methodology and Assessment for Drinking Water and Sewer Utility Costs, with stakeholders.
2. Support the New Jersey Department of Protection (NJDEP) implementation of the Water Quality Accountability Act (WQAA) by providing feedback on reporting requirements, expanding outreach/sharing information, and exploring data connection to Jersey WaterCheck.
3. Submit comments on the proposed Water Infrastructure Investment Plan.
4. Create two products on stormwater utilities for use by localities:
   1. An educational video explaining the need for/benefits of a stormwater utility
   2. A model scope of work for a stormwater utility feasibility study.

1. Develop a fact sheet for municipalities with resources that link green infrastructure to climate change, health outcomes, and equity.
2. Educate about the benefits of green infrastructure by conducting 10 presentations facilitated by Green Infrastructure champions.
3. Enhance the Water Risk Equity Map with updates and promote the site by holding two outreach sessions.

1. Work with the NJDEP to ensure that the JWW “Smart CSO Control Plan” goals are reflected in the next CSO permits, which will include reviewing the permits and developing comments.
2. Educate stakeholders to ensure the CSO permits incorporate current climate change data, utilizing the Committee’s recent climate change resource and other relevant resources.
3. Create a guidance document with case studies to promote ways that local planners and officials can reduce sewage generation and capture stormwater to mitigate CSOs.

1. Convene Lead Service Line (LSL) Implementation Workgroup to identify and share best practices for LSL replacement, with particular concern for small- and medium-sized water utilities and equitable progress.  
2. Publish a quarterly newsletter on lead in drinking water for mayors, business administrators, and other local officials. Explore and educate stakeholders about resources for financial assistance for LSL replacement, including DOE grants for water improvements in public schools and EDA grants for physical upgrades (e.g., lead remediation) in state-regulated child care facilities.
3. Refine and advance educational outreach, financial, and legislative initiatives described in the task force’s 2021 report on Lead in Drinking Water in Child Care Facilities.
4. Support Lead-Free NJ’s Advocacy Committee in enacting key legislative initiatives, such as disclosure of lead in drinking water at rental properties.
5. Critically review the NJDEP’s proposed lead and copper rule, providing expert advice on issues such as service line inventory and replacement and public education.

1. Release third update of JWC metrics, including addition of new data related to lead pipes and WQAA. 
2. Release a statewide analysis of water infrastructure progress using JWC data. Highlight successful communities and their underlying conditions. 
3. Showcase two water utilities that have replaced lead pipes or completed other capital improvement projects through case studies that explain the costs involved.

1. Host an information session for utility staff and local government decision-makers that will include case studies featuring the successful use of federal or state funds on climate resilience projects.
2. Create a proposal for a visual roadmap showing the continuum from least to most resilient water utilities, as well as on-ramps for each phase, and explore opportunities for funding to build it out.
3. Gather input across the collaborative, especially from water utilities, on the NJ PACT rules after they are released and submit recommendations during the public comment period.

1. Convene utility leaders, educational institutions, pre-apprenticeship programs, career centers, and community-based organizations to explore partnerships, collaboration, and pursue goals.
2. Coordinate efforts to bolster education and outreach to make water a career of choice.
3. Advance a NJ water workforce pipeline initiative by finalizing a curriculum or career pathway map for entry into the water utility employment sector.
4. Research funding opportunities to engage partner utilities to implement a water workforce pilot program that would create an employment pipeline from local communities.

1. Advance water/wastewater affordability for low-income customers by:
   • (a) Developing recommendations for an emergency assistance program in New Jersey, and work towards implementing a permanent program.
   • (b) Coordinating with the BPU water workgroup on its structure and outreach.
   • (c) Communicating, sharing, and using the consensus methodology report measuring affordability.
2. Develop guidance for drinking water utilities to complete lead service line inventories.
3. Develop and implement actions for the committee to increase the committee’s racial, gender, and sector diversity.
4. Coordinate with the CSO Committee on LTCP implementation and stormwater fee options for CSO communities.

1. Host or participate in at least two activities (meeting, event, letter campaign) that engage and inform elected officials about the benefits of investing in water infrastructure including the need for funding the LTCP, stormwater utilities, green infrastructure, and how to utilize Jersey WaterCheck as a resource.
2. Conduct an interactive program for the public to increase understanding of complex water policies and create opportunities for a two-way exchange of ideas.
3. Host two structured listening sessions with utilities to learn more about their challenges and continue to identify opportunities for synergy.
4. Create a resource for water customers at risk of service shut-off when the moratorium is over. Share with utility companies and the general public.
5. Host two networking events for JWW members and non-members to activate their participation.

1. Strengthen the green infrastructure workforce by publishing a fact sheet with green infrastructure certification programs and employment strategies.
2. Identify funding sources for green infrastructure retrofit projects, share with GI champions, and present findings in a fact sheet.
3. Develop the JWW Water Equity Map to show where overburdened communities experience water-related risks. By July 2021, develop the interactive map. By December 2021, identify hotspots.
4. Identify and implement a project to continue to advance the understanding of stormwater utilities in MS4 towns by sharing resources.

1. Work with the NJDEP to ensure that the next CSO permits reflect this committee’s Jan. 2021 recommendations for Long Term Control Plans that ensure equity and achieve maximum environmental and community benefits.
2. Meet with planning staff in three or more municipalities to recommend master plan and zoning changes that integrate CSO solutions including green infrastructure.
3. Create a campaign to educate CSO local governments and stakeholders on the benefits of implementing stormwater utilities with the goal of at least one community implementing a stormwater utility in 2021.
4. Use a survey to identify LTCP-related job opportunities and workforce training programs and share them with residents of CSO communities.
5. Facilitate stakeholder meetings to establish a plan for a collaborative regional water workforce development initiative. 

1. Provide technical assistance to help shape legislation requiring lead service line (LSL) inventories and the replacement of all utility and customer-owned LSLs in ten years, supported by full rate recovery and the elimination of any property owner cost share.
2. Furnish stakeholder input and expert advice as DEP seeks to amend New Jersey’s version of the federal lead and copper rule (LCR) to address water testing, public education, expanded review of water parameters, and licensed operator training.
3. Draft legislation requiring identification and disclosure of LSLs at the time of home sale and rental. Include legal mechanisms to ensure compliance.
4. Help the state government launch a public education campaign on lead exposure.
5. Prepare a comprehensive, consensus plan on how to address lead in drinking water in licensed and family-run childcare facilities in New Jersey.

1. Release a 2.0 version of Jersey WaterCheck by Dec. 1 based on user feedback and JWW committee recommendations. Include updated data for existing metrics, new metrics, and website enhancements. 
2. Release two short video explainers on JWC metrics by the July membership meeting. 
3. Partner with Sustainable Jersey to work with two pilot communities to create community water stories using Jersey WaterCheck data. Host the content on Jersey WaterCheck.
4. Leverage existing partnerships to conduct a peer-to peer-learning forum with emerging utility leaders on best practices in a data transparent world.
5. Utilize Jersey WaterCheck data to identify utilities serving at-risk communities and advocate for targeted technical and financial assistance.

1. Advance water and sewer affordability for low-income customers by:
   • (a) Producing recommendations to implement the white paper state policy options report released in 2019.
   • (b) Establishing a consensus methodology for measuring affordability issues, applying it to assess NJ communities, and publishing the findings.
   • (c) Work with the Combined Sewer Overflow committee to identify ways to address affordability in Long Term Control Plans and recommend them to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
2. Review and issue comments on state government proposals relating to water financing and asset management plans, including the Water Quality Accountability Act.
3. Work to increase the number of committee members and their racial and gender diversity.

1. Make existing resources on water infrastructure more accessible for residents and other stakeholders by shaping a new JWW website interface.
2. Share options for educating students on water infrastructure at the New Jersey Education Association’s annual conference.
3. Submit a session proposal on water infrastructure for the ANJEC Congress.
4. Host or participate in at least two national water infrastructure awareness events such as Infrastructure Week and Imagine A Day Without Water, and amplify those efforts through JWW’s communications platforms.

1. Recommend green infrastructure incentive programs for NJ stormwater utilities based on a national review of best practices.
2. Recommend regulatory changes to the DEP regarding reasonable use of green infrastructure within Green Acres-restricted parks.
3. Continue the Green Infrastructure Champions program and collaborate with partner organizations to connect champions with interested communities.
4. Solicit five NJ green infrastructure projects and share them as case studies in the New Jersey Green Infrastructure Municipal Toolkit. Focus case studies on the following topics:  
   • (a) Green streets
   • (b) Park projects that include GI and minimize tree removal

1. Host a webinar or workshop to share CSO system success stories.
2. Work with the Asset Management and Finance committee to identify ways to address affordability in Long Term Control Plans and recommend them to the DEP.
3. Develop a framework for reviewing draft Long Term Control Plans (due to the DEP on June 1) send committee comments to the DEP and assist CSO communities in reviewing the plans. 
4. Develop recommendations and resources that will encourage local hire from environmental justice communities for water workforce jobs, link local residents to stable careers through job training programs and link utilities and unions to these training programs and to find qualified workers.
5. Encourage CSO municipalities to seek funding from the NJ Infrastructure Bank in order to reduce the cost of implementation of the Long-Term Control Plans.

1. Advance water and sewer affordability for low-income customers by:
   • (a) Finalizing and issuing a white paper with a menu of state policy options to ensure affordability.
   • (b) Establishing a consensus methodology for measuring affordability issues, using it to assess New Jersey communities, and issuing a report on the benchmark findings.
2. Issue a baseline assessment of drinking water utility capital investments in New Jersey.
3. Review and issue comments on state government proposals, including New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection guidance for stormwater utilities, efforts to require asset management for wastewater systems, and Water Quality Accountability Act recommendations.
4. Recommend, in partnership with industry groups, level-of-service goals for use with asset management programs.
5. Represent Jersey Water Works and promote its work at industry and partner conferences and workshops, in coordination with backbone staff.

1. Host or participate in two events to promote water workforce development, such as running facility tours, career days, or job fairs, and share supporting materials.
2. Make existing informational resources on water infrastructure more accessible for residents and other stakeholders by creating a new Jersey Water Works website interface.
3. Implement a pilot schools program in Robbinsville to educate grade-school students on water infrastructure and share lessons learned.
4. Host or participate in at least two national water infrastructure awareness events such as Infrastructure Week and Imagine a Day Without Water and amplify those efforts through Jersey Water Works’ communications platforms.

1. Work with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to create and promote a Green Streets handbook for New Jersey communities.
2. Recommend revisions to Sustainable Jersey’s Complete Street Actions to include green stormwater management.
3. Recommend policies to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection regarding reasonable use of green infrastructure within Green Acres-restricted parks.
4. Issue recommendations, based on a national review of best practices, for New Jersey stormwater utilities to create green infrastructure incentive programs.
5. Continue the Green Infrastructure Champions program by making training broadly accessible through webinars and the development of a “train the trainer” program.
6. Establish a process to solicit and share New Jersey green infrastructure projects and case studies to include in existing green infrastructure inventories.

1. Maximize the impact of the CSO Committee’s reports Balancing Green and Gray Solutions to CSO Management and Hidden Capacity: How Proper Maintenance and Cleaning of Sewer Systems Can Have Huge Benefits! through promotion and active distribution of the documents to stakeholders including New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), CSO supplemental teams, and others.
2. Assist CSO municipalities and utilities with resource gaps by providing technical assistance, resource sharing, or other means.
3. Review the Development and Evaluation of Alternatives reports due to DEP on July 1 and develop a summary document highlighting:
   • (a) Consideration of green and gray infrastructure
   • (b) Consideration of community input
   • (c) A list of the alternatives considered in each report with descriptive information on their review
   • (d) Innovative ideas
4. Share with CSO permit holders next-tier opportunities related to CSO mitigation such as integrated planning, increased community engagement, workforce development with green infrastructure, odor control best practices, and the CSO/climate connection.

1. Examine the legal impediments to establishing water infrastructure ratepayer assistance programs in New Jersey and identify policy recommendations to overcome them.
2. Publish a report on “Cost Effective Investments for Water Infrastructure” and host an event to discuss implementation.
3. Host educational events that utilize the framework provided by the NJ AIMS Guide, including training on water loss audits.
4. Propose a completed Asset Management “action” for the Sustainable Jersey certification program.

1. Advance implementation of “green streets” by recommending policy changes, promoting state and federal pilot projects, and expanding the complete streets “action” in the Sustainable Jersey certification program.
2. Partner with Jersey Water Works members to host green infrastructure trainings for key stakeholders.
3. Recommend ways to conduct an inventory of green infrastructure installations and their performance.
4. Facilitate community advocacy for green infrastructure by assessing stakeholders’ needs for green infrastructure tools and training and developing solutions to fill the gaps.

1. Support the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association Water Infrastructure Policy Committee in developing state policy recommendations on water infrastructure and announcing them at a fall event.
2. Partner with the New Jersey League of Municipalities and other Jersey Water Works members to provide an educational webinar series for municipal officials.
3. Encourage partners to host events and conferences that include water-related sessions and invite state and local officials to participate.

1. Produce public participation materials for the new municipal separate storm sewer (MS4) permit.
2. Develop a strategic communications plan that identifies event-oriented social media campaigns and tools for committee members to use to engage stakeholders in water infrastructure issues.
3. Provide tools and resources needed by CSO permit holders to address public participation requirements.
4. Compile and share a collection of educational curricula about water infrastructure.

1. Publish case studies on the financial benefits of asset management for drinking water and wastewater utilities.
2. Assess the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust green infrastructure financing program to identify ways to improve applicant success at obtaining funding.
3. Publish a national survey of state-level initiatives to fund water infrastructure.

Under Former Municipal Outreach Committee

1. Support the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association Water Infrastructure Policy Committee in developing state policy recommendations on water infrastructure and announcing them at a fall event.
2. Partner with the New Jersey League of Municipalities and other Jersey Water Works members to provide an educational webinar series for municipal officials.
3. Encourage partners to host events and conferences that include water-related sessions and invite state and local officials to participate.

Under Former Best Practices Committee

1. Examine the legal impediments to establishing water infrastructure ratepayer assistance programs in New Jersey and identify policy recommendations to overcome them.
2. Publish a report on “Cost Effective Investments for Water Infrastructure” and host an event to discuss implementation.
3. Host educational events that utilize the framework provided by the NJ AIMS Guide, including training on water loss audits.
4. Propose a completed Asset Management “action” for the Sustainable Jersey certification program.

1. Advance implementation of “green streets” by recommending policy changes, promoting state and federal pilot projects and expanding the complete streets “action” in the Sustainable Jersey certification program.
2. Partner with Jersey Water Works members to host green infrastructure trainings for key stakeholders.
3. Recommend ways to conduct an inventory of green infrastructure installations and their performance.
4. Facilitate community advocacy for green infrastructure by assessing stakeholders’ needs for green infrastructure tools and training and developing solutions to fill the gaps.

Under Former Community Engagement Committee

1. Produce public participation materials for the new municipal separate storm sewer (MS4) permit.
2. Develop a strategic communications plan that identifies event-oriented social media campaigns and tools for committee members to use to engage stakeholders in water infrastructure issues.
3. Provide tools and resources needed by CSO permit holders to address public participation requirements.
4. Compile and share a collection of educational curricula about water infrastructure.

1. Facilitate the development of a case study of the fiscal implications of asset management at Camden County Municipal Utilities Authority.
2. Develop an on-line water infrastructure finance clearinghouse with references, resources and links to the following: grant/funding resources, innovative financing methods. alternative project delivery structures, New Jersey enabling statutes.
3. Assess NJEIT financed integrated green and green infrastructure stormwater management projects that feature successful designs and financing applications and highlight intervention points and advocacy efforts that can improve the financing process and ultimately increase the number of projects funded.
4. Benchmark wastewater and water-supply utility emergency repair costs.
5. Review and catalog existing state water-related household assistance programs.

Under Former Municipal Outreach Committee

1. Continue outreach for Mayoral Proclamations and City Council Resolutions.
2. Provide technical training for decision makers and their staff on water infrastructure and best management practices.
3. Build awareness of Jersey Water Works and water infrastructure through a strong presence at external events with a municipal audience.

Under Former Best Practices Committee

1. Develop two actions for the Sustainable Jersey certification program: asset management and a water loss audit.
2. Educate utilities about NJ A.I.M.S. and promote uptake through a presence at utility, municipal, and trade association conferences.
3. Launch a recognition program for utilities that adopt N.J.A.1.M.S. practices through partnerships with water infrastructure trade associations.

Under Former Community Engagement Committee

1. Develop and enhance educational materials and actions for community members and community-based organizations.
2. Develop a list of specific stakeholders in communities, targeting areas that are perceived to have fewer potential stakeholders. Develop and implement strategy for communicating with identified stakeholders.
3. Develop “universal” public participation materials for permittees that would outline best practices and checklist of potential stakeholders for outreach and supplemental teams.
4. Create a network for green infrastructure Municipal Action Teams to share best practices and support and expand work.

1. Develop two Sustainable Jersey actions for green infrastructure (planning and installation).
2. Better understand how and which green infrastructure techniques can be used in or next to parks that can control stormwater generated elsewhere under existing regulations and identify necessary modifications to state controls.
3. Review existing efforts and need for a database of green infrastructure installations and monitoring data in NJ.
4. Encourage NJ and local DOTs to support green infrastructure best practices on green streets (e.g., right-of-way bioswales) by identifying likely applications, performance, and permitting requirements that could be adopted by the state, counties and/or municipalities.
5. Develop green infrastructure educational materials for the construction and development industries, such as a design charrette that explores the use of various GI techniques.