The meeting revealed that several manholes were built using full bricklaid and mortared bottoms, an antiquated design that deviates from modern engineering standards, which typically employ a half-pipe design to ensure better flow and reduce blockages. Concerns were further compounded by the discovery of improperly trimmed gaskets, necessitating recommendations for lining affected sections from manhole to manhole to ensure a smooth flow of waste. Safety concerns were highlighted by misaligned steps within the manholes, which could pose risks for maintenance crews, requiring urgent rectification.

Residents along Route 5 have been particularly affected by these delays, facing additional costs for septic tank pumping and dealing with potential leech field failures due to the incomplete sewer system. There was a consensus among board members that the contractors should bear responsibility for these additional expenses incurred by residents.

The board’s discussions also addressed the deplorable quality of paving, with concerns about the sinking of pavement over cross trenches that had not settled properly. The board expressed frustration over the treatment of the town and stressed the need for a realistic timeline to address these issues. A strong sentiment emerged that accountability was lacking from both the contractor and the overseeing firm, CI, with multiple voices agreeing that oversight during the project’s initial phases should have prevented these compounding errors.

In light of these issues, the board discussed the need for a report detailing the problems and proposed solutions, with a commitment to have this information available within a month. There was an emphasis on ensuring that the entire sewer system met acceptable standards before allowing any connections, with an understanding that some manholes might require complete removal to address the extent of the issues, including new ladder alignments.

The conversation then turned to the potential for pursuing claims against the contractor for the extra costs borne by residents, such as pumping and repairs due to failed leech fields. There was a shared understanding of the need for improved oversight moving forward, with assurances from board members that they would be on-site to monitor progress closely.

Another heated topic was the delays in the construction project, which extended well beyond the original timeline of two to four weeks, now spanning three months. The expiration of Notices of Intent (NOIs) was noted as an issue, as all NOIs have expired, necessitating refiling before any further excavation can proceed. This additional administrative step is expected to further delay the project.

The board also discussed the possibility of pulling the project bond should further delays occur, expressing impatience with the project’s protracted timeline. There was an agreement on the necessity of holding the contractor accountable for missed deadlines, given that the project is already two and a half years overdue.

In other matters, the meeting covered the fire department’s professional development opportunities, with the fire chief seeking approval to attend two conferences focusing on fire and emergency services. The board members expressed support for his attendance, recognizing the potential benefits of acquiring knowledge about emerging concerns, such as lithium-ion batteries and energy storage systems.

The board also revisited the Massachusetts Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program proposal. After a brief discussion regarding the program’s potential to attract business investments with minimal obligation on the town, a motion to participate was carried unanimously.

In addition, the meeting addressed the Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) for the Golanka farm, with the board supporting a reduced notification period to expedite the process.

The meeting concluded with updates from the Department of Public Works and discussions around budget considerations, including new job descriptions and compensation discussions for the wastewater treatment plant assistant superintendent position. The board also tackled issues related to recent snowstorms, equipment performance, and ongoing projects at the Hatfield Elementary School.