One notable issue discussed was the water quality at Millville Elementary School, where concerns about total organic carbon (TOC) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been longstanding. The town has secured a $1 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to address these contaminants, with plans to implement new filtration technologies. The discussion revealed complexities in managing the water system, including recent quarterly violation notices and the potential need for a new well. Although a new well was estimated to cost around $150,000, the current focus is on treatment solutions, expected to yield immediate improvements. Bottled water will continue to be provided as a precautionary measure while new systems are being tested.

The town’s engineers and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection are collaborating to finalize the grant application, with expectations to submit by the end of the following week. Members expressed cautious optimism about the proposed technology, which, although untested in Massachusetts, has been successful in other states. This pilot approach will determine its effectiveness before full implementation. The timeline remains uncertain, with suggestions that the work could commence in the first quarter of the year.

In addition to infrastructure concerns, the committee celebrated student success in the MCAS assessments, recognizing high achievers who met or exceeded expectations in English, Math, and Science. The superintendent lauded these accomplishments, emphasizing the importance of standardized testing as a measure of student growth.

Another topic was the debate over whether to install electric vehicle charging stations at district schools. Although the project could benefit from grant funding covering installation costs, the district would still face a $29,000 expenditure. Concerns about the financial implications led to a decision to not proceed with the grant for the charging stations. Members questioned the necessity and potential usage of the stations, particularly given the district’s pressing maintenance needs. The motion to reject the proposal passed with a 7 to 1 vote, with members agreeing to revisit the idea once further information is available.

Beyond these headline issues, the meeting also covered a wide range of topics, including updates on athletic programs, student council activities, and personnel changes within the district. Fall sports concluded with varied successes, and preparations for winter sports are underway. Concerns were raised about unpaid athletic fees, with families being reminded of their obligations to settle balances before the winter season commences.

The committee also addressed the recent ballot measure that repealed the MCAS as a state-required graduation requirement, positioning Massachusetts among states with more lenient educational standards. This change prompted discussions on revising local graduation criteria to maintain academic rigor.