The board focused on the decrease in sewer consumption, which has fallen to 35,679,834 gallons. The members expressed concern about this trend, which has seen consumption decline from a high of 45 million gallons in fiscal year 2023 to the current level. The board discussed potential factors, including a relatively dry summer and the impact of previous infrastructure work. The decline raises issues with maintaining the necessary funds to operate the sewer system efficiently, prompting discussions about possibly adjusting sewer rates.

Additionally, the board examined the increase in automatic abatements, which totaled $96,987.39 for the fiscal year 2026. These abatements are provided to residents who use more water during the summer months for activities like lawn watering and pool filling, exceeding 125% of their winter consumption. The policy, though unique to Deerfield, aims to reflect the actual water going into the sewer system. The board acknowledged the financial implications of these abatements, which have risen from $70,000 in the previous year, and discussed the fairness and rationale behind continuing this practice.