The committee scrutinized the DPW’s administrative operating budget, which noted a rise in utilities due to hikes in electric and gas rates. The Highway Division took responsibility for maintaining 45 miles of roadway and managing storm water assets, with increased funding proposed for line painting and equipment repair.

Of paramount concern was the Water Division’s budget, which is supported by three licensed water operators and five employees. They maintain the water treatment plants, storage tanks, and distribution system. A recent public hearing recommended FY 2025 water and sewer rates based on a rate model for water usage. The committee recommended a budget increase for addressing SCADA issues related to the water treatment plant’s computer systems. They also discussed the need for outdoor lighting at the Specon Washington Street tank and a connection to a new trailer-mounted generator for water utilities. Maintenance of Wells and other items necessary for the water fund supplies was also a topic of conversation.

The wastewater summary shed light on the licensed operators required for the wastewater treatment plant and the maintenance of 19 pump stations. The committee engaged in discussions about increasing efforts in vacuuming out wet Wells at pump stations, inspecting and painting tertiary tanks, and managing the elevated costs for regulatory sampling at the Wastewater Plant. A reduction in sludge removal costs was noted due to the installation of a gravity belt thickener. Concerns were raised about the long-term viability of relying on Devens’ services for wastewater treatment, especially with potential area growth. Discussion also covered the impact of reducing inflow and infiltration on the town’s wastewater system.

The Rate Review Committee’s third-party evaluation aiming to reduce costs in the solid waste budget was another topic of interest. The committee delved into the solid waste indirect cost reimbursement, which includes fringe benefits and pension, not merely health insurance benefits. The indirect cost reflects a percentage of the annual budget that must be paid out of the general appropriation. Additionally, there was mention of an ongoing study on the transfer station.

The meeting also concerned itself with the Water and Sewer Enterprise funds, emphasizing that these divisions are not funded through the tax base. Discussions on budget changes, particularly regarding salary and wages in accordance with the Union contract for Water Services, were also prominent. Inquiries about Reserve fund transfers and subsidies from the general fund for the Enterprise funds were made.

Another point of discussion was the Woodlawn Cemetery budget, which anticipated changes due to potential personnel adjustments, prompting an increase in wages as a placeholder. In contrast, the Tree Warden budget was reduced, saving funds for the town, but included an increase for the annual software renewal to monitor and update the inventory of publicly owned trees.

During the meeting, technical difficulties with sharing the presentation through Zoom caused delays, but did not detract from the examination of the town’s budgetary needs. The town’s infrastructure, such as street lights and the fueling station, maintained stable funding. The cemetery superintendent and tree warden’s roles were clarified amidst discussions about the crosswalk study, where projects associated with eight out of nine locations requiring flashing signs were already underway.