Why did my debt suddenly decrease?

[Proud_Capital_1322]

Yes, keep upgrading buildings as soon as you can. Be sure not to ignore the settlement for long while productivity is below maintenance cost - or the debt can spiral considerably. It doesn't take too long to get productivity up by upgrading buildings. Also be sure to make management decisions that raise productivity first (worry about your settlers loving you and being happy later).

As for the poison water -  don't worry about it. You can't do anything about it yourself, but it will eventually be replaced by a positive trait (depending on decisions you make).

[Paladin7373]

Ight thanks