The primary focus of the meeting was the critical condition of the Lake Wyola Dam, where emergency repairs have become necessary to prevent further erosion and potential failure. Nate from GZA, the firm working with the town on dam maintenance, provided insights into the project’s background. Issues with leakage around a low-level outlet pipe installed in 2007 had worsened, necessitating immediate measures. The recent emergency was highlighted by holes forming in the dam, requiring the water level to be drawn down to mitigate risks. This action was in response to a dam safety order issued on December 3, mandating a plan of action within seven days and a contractor secured for repairs within 14 days.

The board members sought clarity on the costs of GZA’s oversight services, which were based on a time and materials proposal. Questions were raised about the feasibility of integrating original repair plans with the emergency repairs, given the altered project scope. Funding discussions revealed that the initial grant from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs was insufficient for the current needs. The board is exploring additional funding opportunities with the Executive Office, as the emergency has shifted the project from design to construction.

In discussing the proposed repairs, concerns were expressed about whether they would sufficiently address the dam’s issues or merely delay further expenses. The temporary measures involve excavating soil around the low-level outlet pipe and replacing it with porous crushed stone to prevent erosion, although this is not a permanent fix. The long-term goal remains to implement substantial repairs, potentially involving the installation of a concrete pipe, which would require considerable funding. The board acknowledged the uncertainty of the funding environment and the potential need for a phase 2 engineering analysis to recommend a comprehensive repair strategy.

The board also addressed the implications of past repairs made in 2007 or 2008, questioning their adequacy and the possibility of improper engineering oversight at the time. There was speculation that these previous repairs did not meet expected standards, leading to the current situation.

The timeline for moving from the current unsafe status to a more stable condition was discussed, with the expectation that further state orders would follow the initial emergency actions. The phase 2 engineering study, crucial for determining the full scope of necessary repairs, was described as a detailed process involving drilling, surveys, and analyses, expected to take several months.

Alongside the engineering challenges, the board considered grant funding opportunities. A recently submitted grant application is intended for the design portion of the phase 2 study, not covering construction costs. The next grant window for dam and seawall projects is anticipated to open in early 2026, potentially providing additional funding. The board emphasized the importance of addressing the dam’s issues promptly while planning for long-term solutions.

The board also discussed the impact of the lake’s water drawdown on local recreation and water access for camps relying on shallow wells. Community outreach was deemed necessary to inform residents about potential changes in water levels during the summer.

Concluding the meeting, the board moved to formalize actions by signing the GZA proposal for emergency services related to the dam. A motion to declare a state of emergency under Massachusetts General Laws was unanimously supported, allowing for immediate deficit spending to address repairs while maintaining the possibility of future grant reimbursements.