The meeting took a deep dive into the escalating issues at the Jones River pump station, where increased waste has been clogging pumps more frequently, jumping from two or three times a year to a more concern involving roughly 70 to 80 houses. The problem was partly attributed to changes in waste disposal habits, notably the use of cleaning wipes, which have been emphasized in distributed flyers as not being pump-friendly despite being labeled as flushable. The board was informed about the substantial costs incurred from employing a pump truck every two weeks to clear the blockages, with incidents leading to high-level alarms and requiring immediate maintenance interventions. The financial strain, coupled with a shortage of staff, has put added pressure on the department, prompting calls for more personnel to be addressed by Human Resources (HR).

Additionally, the meeting addressed a mechanical issue with the generator at the Jones River pump station, which had entered fail mode during a routine check. This prompted a discussion on the critical importance of maintaining such equipment, especially during the colder months when weather conditions can exacerbate mechanical problems.

Concerns also extended to PFAS in drinking water, where a participant highlighted potential treatment costs that might necessitate a tax. Although a nearby well was identified as a probable contamination source, it was noted that manageable treatment protocols could mitigate the issue, with current assessments indicating no immediate crisis. However, the board considered testing sludge sent to external facilities to establish a baseline for PFAS levels, which could influence future cost calculations for detected contaminants.

The regulatory landscape was another point of discussion, as changes in federal oversight have increased state-level responsibilities for environmental issues. This shift is particularly relevant for Massachusetts, where there is heightened public concern about environmental management compared to other states.

In financial matters, the board discussed using remaining funds from a town meeting loan to support engineering and surveying tasks related to a draft plan from CDM. This plan prioritizes sewer management areas, including South Street and Milgate wells, with an eye on protecting the town’s drinking water resources. The board emphasized the importance of securing enough information by mid-year to obtain funding through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) for 2027. Collaboration with the Jones Watershed Association was deemed critical to achieving these goals.

The conversation also touched on water meter costs, sparking debate over whether users or the municipality should shoulder expenses. The board leaned towards having users cover the costs, estimated at $300 to $400 per meter, while ensuring the financial burden does not fall on sewer customers. The advanced meters are designed to detect leaks, offering potential benefits in water conservation.