Norton Plans Sewer and Water System Overhaul

The Norton Water Sewer Commission recently held a meeting to discuss the Elm Street sewer extension and water main improvements, a project with a budgeted cost of between $7.3 and $8.4 million. The commission announced the postponement of the project’s article in the upcoming town meeting until fall due to the need for additional information regarding potential developments on Elm Street. The project, expected to start construction in November 2024 with an estimated completion in May 2026, is partially funded by a MassWorks design grant and an economic development build grant, with $3.5 million already secured. The remainder will be financed through betterment assessments on affected properties and the Title 5 Loan program, which assists homeowners with septic system repairs or new sewer connections.

The proposed development on Elm Street includes 140 to 150 apartments alongside commercial space. The commission detailed the sewer connection requirements, emphasizing the necessity for properties to connect to the sewer within seven years. Connection costs are variable, potentially ranging from $7,000 to $10,000, influenced by factors such as proximity to the road and digging conditions.

Attendees at the meeting raised concerns regarding the equitable treatment of homeowners concerning costs and payment timelines. The commission clarified that while water costs would be distributed across the town via water rates, sewer betterment assessments would be levied specifically on property owners within the project’s area. A 20-year payment period for the betterment assessment was discussed, as well as a 15-year loan assistance program for construction and connection to the sewer system.

Questions from the audience also touched upon the selection process for contractors and the subsequent road repaving following construction. The commission confirmed that homeowners could obtain permits to dig trenches for sewer connections, pending approval by the water department, and that a list of approved contractors was available. It was assured that road repaving would involve redoing the entire road instead of mere patchwork.

The meeting transitioned to the procedural aspects, with a vote schedule extension to October. The commission plans to engage in further discussions with the finance committee and the select board before the town meeting, intending to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project costs.

Community members expressed concerns about the potential neighborhood impact of the 47 Elm Street development, including increased lighting, sidewalk requirements, and financial implications for residents. The commission reassured attendees that these issues would be considered during the planning board process and reiterated the availability of the $3.5 million grant, which could offset costs if the developer failed to commit fully to the site.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Administrator:
Michael Yunits
Sewerage Authority Officials:
Steven Bishop, James Jardin, Steven L. Bernstein

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