The board’s most extensive discussion focused on the condition and safety of septic tanks on Charles Eldridge Drive. Concerns were raised about the structural soundness of tanks over 20 years old located beneath a parking lot. The representative from Foresight Engineering argued against requiring replacement, citing the lack of historical precedents for collapses of H20 tanks in his 30-year experience and the prohibitive costs of replacement, estimated at up to $200,000. However, board members were skeptical, emphasizing the local bylaw requirement for tanks to be certified as structurally sound and constructed from approved materials. They expressed apprehension regarding the potential risks associated with aged tanks, especially given their proximity to a childcare facility.

The representative proposed installing a Cape Cod berm to prevent further traffic over the tanks and suggested a fence to restrict access. The board appeared divided, with some members leaning towards allowing the tanks to remain if certified by an engineer, provided that additional safety measures like a fence were implemented. This solution aimed to balance safety concerns with the operational challenges of tank replacement, which would disrupt the childcare facility’s operations.

Additionally, the conversation expanded to cover nitrogen loading concerns at the same property. A motion was made and unanimously approved to increase the nitrogen load from 1,144 gallons per day to 1,200 gallons per day, based on historical water usage data indicating no increase in water flow. This decision appeared to acknowledge the site’s constraints while attempting to accommodate its needs.

As the meeting progressed, the board addressed several other properties seeking local upgrade approvals. One such case involved a property on North Fork Street, presented by Zenith Consulting Engineers. The proposal included a 1,500-gallon micro fast tank, a 1,000-gallon pump chamber, and a leaching field. Due to site constraints, multiple requests for local upgrades were necessary, including reductions in setbacks from tanks to the surface water supply and the leaching field. The board discussed the unclear state of existing plumbing, with particular concern about the integrity of aged pipes. Recommendations were made to inspect the pipes, and questions arose about the placement of a blower vent near house windows, noting potential noise issues.

Similarly, on Weria Street, Zenith Consulting Engineers sought local upgrade approvals for a sewage disposal system, facing challenges such as ledge or refusal during test pits. Proposed solutions included a 1,500-gallon micro fast tank and adjustments to setback requirements between the leaching field and property lines. The board carefully considered these requests, weighing safety against practical implementation.

Another topic was a proposal involving two lots on Beachwood—39 and 37 Beachwood. The dialogue covered water service plans, confirming that these properties had only seasonal water and lacked well records. Concerns were raised about a neighboring property’s well, which required decommissioning before septic installation permits could be issued. The board discussed the proximity of the proposed septic system to neighboring homes, emphasizing compliance with regulations and minimizing inconvenience to residents.

The board also addressed a proposal for a local upgrade on Bedford Street, involving a micro fast septic system installation. Outback Engineering requested a reduction in the required separation between the system’s bottom and the estimated high groundwater level. Despite some concerns, the board approved the request, acknowledging the constraints posed by existing structures and pavement.

Towards the meeting’s end, the board unanimously approved a sewage pumper permit for South Coast Septic Services LLC. They also deliberated on Kot Disposal Corporation’s operations, a new trash hauler in the area. The conversation highlighted the town’s unique requirement for haulers to obtain permits and the need for regulation to ensure proper waste disposal and container maintenance.

Finally, the board discussed a proposed open space bylaw, continuing from a previous meeting. The discussion touched on septic systems not being allowed on lots smaller than 8,000 square feet due to nitrogen loading concerns. With plans to attend an upcoming planning board meeting, the board considered further discussions with the town planner and council responses.