Norton Commission Tackles Water Quality and Infrastructure Issues

Overview: In a recent Norton Water Sewer Commission meeting, issues were addressed, including the community’s water quality concerns, infrastructure projects, and the financial implications of ongoing and future works. The fire suppression plan for a property on East Main Street was a significant topic, with the Commission agreeing on a new 8-inch water main and additional hydrants to ensure safety. However, the most discussions revolved around the high levels of chlorinated byproducts in the water, operational challenges in sewer and pump stations, and the necessity for infrastructural security and upgrades.

Franklin Sewerage Authority Debates New Development Agreement

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Franklin (Somerset County) Sewerage Authority Committee discussed several matters including land acquisitions, a contentious sewer charge ordinance, and financial strategies to maintain operational cash flow and Moody’s Bond rating. Of particular interest was the intense deliberation surrounding a new developers agreement for Burch Glenn residential development and the financial and precedential implications it may have for the Authority.

Norton Commission Addresses Water Quality and Sewer Connection Concerns

Overview: The Norton Water Sewer Commission meeting focused on several issues, with the most significant being concerns over water quality at the treatment plant and complexities surrounding sewer connections for condominiums and local businesses. The water quality was reported to meet standards, yet there was an ongoing issue with the color of the water, which prompted the commission to consider options to rectify this problem. Additionally, condominium trustees from Pine Village raised concerns about the complexities of the sewer connection application process, prompting discussions on potential revisions to accommodate trusts or associations.

Norton Plans Sewer and Water System Overhaul

Overview: The Norton Water Sewer Commission recently held a meeting to discuss the Elm Street sewer extension and water main improvements, a project with a budgeted cost of between $7.3 and $8.4 million. The commission announced the postponement of the project’s article in the upcoming town meeting until fall due to the need for additional information regarding potential developments on Elm Street. The project, expected to start construction in November 2024 with an estimated completion in May 2026, is partially funded by a MassWorks design grant and an economic development build grant, with $3.5 million already secured. The remainder will be financed through betterment assessments on affected properties and the Title 5 Loan program, which assists homeowners with septic system repairs or new sewer connections.

Franklin Sewerage Authority Addresses Infrastructure Challenges

Overview: The Franklin (Somerset County) Sewerage Authority Committee recently convened to address several significant infrastructure challenges, including ongoing projects and financial matters. The committee prioritized discussions on the infiltration of clean water into the sewer system, notably a fire line break at the old FNF food building, and the implications of this for the Authority’s operations. A financial report was presented, highlighting the current state of finances, including receipts, outstanding balances, penalties, and expenditures. The committee also examined various projects such as the Somerset Street Pump Station rehabilitation, the Brookline Avenue sewer area Rehabilitation, and the Commerce Drive Pump Station project. The meeting concluded with the adoption of resolutions related to project contracts and bid approvals.