During the meeting, the board members discussed the various strategies that have been employed to uncover lead services, including an aggressive door-knocking campaign and the use of a distinct red envelope for mailing, which aims to increase public engagement. The necessity for public cooperation was highlighted, especially in terms of scheduling inspections to facilitate the replacement process. The ongoing communication with the EPA was also a point of emphasis, as the city works to navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure that all efforts are in compliance with federal guidelines.

In addition to tackling the lead service issue, the board approved a number of other measures. Among these was a license agreement with Dish Network, which entails a 5-year contract featuring options for extensions and an escalating lease structure. The board expressed contentment with the terms of the deal, especially given the ample space available at the specified site. The members also discussed a development plan for an adjacent lot, stressing the importance of securing proper easements for access.

The Fall River Rowing Center’s request for a contract extension received the board’s approval as well. The extension was granted in recognition of the Center’s beneficial impact on the local community and its track record of timely rent payments. The board noted the positive contributions of the program to community engagement and the revenue it has brought into the water Enterprise fund.

Financial management was also on the agenda, with the acceptance of low bids for various chemicals needed by the water department. The board reviewed the details of these bids. Additionally, the approval of vehicle insurance proposals for the water department’s fleet for the fiscal year 2025 was discussed. The board considered the number of vehicles to be covered and the implications for the department’s budget.

Another topic that the board addressed was the proposed leak abatements, particularly those due to toilet leaks, which amounted to a total approved abatement of $8,891.57.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous decision to adjourn. Each item on the agenda was approached with a focus on the betterment of the community’s water infrastructure and resources.