The commission’s contemplation of altering its meeting schedule from monthly to quarterly represented a shift. A member suggested that the current monthly meetings were often brief with limited content, proposing instead that quarterly meetings could foster more meaningful discussions and decisions. There was agreement on aligning these meetings with fiscal quarters—March, June, September, and December—and the logistics of publicizing this new schedule to maintain transparency were discussed. The next meeting was tentatively scheduled for March 12th.

Project oversight within the department emerged as another focal point, particularly regarding the role of Weston and Samson and their future involvement in meetings. It was confirmed that they would report to the department head and not attend all meetings as before. Changes in oversight were noted as the department now fell under public works, with a member referencing a superintendent named Frank and his continued involvement. The idea of expanding the department to have separate superintendents for water and sewer was floated, though the processes for project approval remained unclear, creating some uncertainty about future project handling.

The commission also revisited the status of a rate study previously initiated but subsequently delayed due to various projects. Frustration was expressed over the delay in addressing water rate adjustments, acknowledging that current rates did not meet regulatory expectations. The need for a structured approach to future rate increases and a plan for the board was emphasized.

An incident illustrating effective customer service was recounted during the meeting. A homeowner’s report of a lack of water flow prompted a prompt investigation by the water department staff, who identified a malfunctioning pressure-reducing valve as the culprit. The department’s handling of the situation received praise, with members expressing satisfaction with the quality of service provided.

The meeting also addressed specific property-related sewer issues. A notable case involved a property on West Main Street, where water from a broken hot water tank had been pumped outside. The commission discussed abating the sewer bill for this property based on typical usage rather than the original amount of $3,158. A revised motion to abate based on average sewer usage for the same quarter over the past two years was seconded and passed unanimously. Another case involved an interest dispute on an account, which was tabled due to pending payment.

Updates on ongoing projects were shared, including a cross-country main project where an agreement allowed the water main to remain in its current location, with property owners providing an easement for one dollar. The commission highlighted this as the least intrusive option. There was also a discussion about a proposed force main, with the commission encouraging developers to consider a gravity main instead, noting ongoing collaborations to manage costs.

The meeting shifted to a water main break on Walter Street, which prompted emergency repairs. The repair crew was commended for their swift response and effective work, and the type of pipe involved, asbestos cement, was identified. Despite the rarity of such breaks, the commission speculated that cold weather and rapid hydrant operations could have contributed to the issue. Residents were reminded to take precautions against freezing pipes as winter temperatures set in.