Chair opened a brief update on a state water-optimization grant, telling members the program will cover a substantial portion of the cost for water meters and telemetry and urging eligible systems to apply.

The chair said the state originally proposed cutting funding to 50%, but "the south end of the state guys" successfully pushed to keep funding at up to 75% for meters and telemetry. The chair encouraged members to spread the word at other meetings and to apply if they are required to install meters, calling it a priority for applicants.

The chair estimated the installed cost at roughly $4,000 per meter with telemetry based on prior local installations and said getting 75% paid by the state would significantly reduce local expenses. The meeting discussion referenced an application window described as opening in December and closing in January; the transcript did not provide exact calendar dates or an official program name beyond "water optimization."

Council members asked brief clarifying questions but did not debate program rules or scoring; the chair said outreach and assistance in applying would be part of the council's messaging. No formal action or vote on an endorsement or formal outreach plan was recorded in the meeting.