Lunenburg Task Force Discusses Stormwater Education and High School Project

Overview: The Lunenburg Stormwater Task Force meeting focused on two issues: the development of an outreach presentation aimed at educating the public on stormwater management and addressing questions related to a proposed stormwater demonstration project at the local high school.

Lunenburg Water District Approves $32.2 Million for New Treatment Facility

Overview: In a recent session, Lunenburg Water District has approved a substantial appropriation of $32.2 million for the design and construction of a new wastewater treatment facility. This decision came about during a special meeting of the Lunenburg Water District Board. The new facility will be located at the existing Lancaster Avenue wellfield. Financing for this project will be through a state revolving fund loan with a minimum of 3.3% principal forgiveness, and it is set to address the current and future water treatment needs of the district, including the treatment of iron, manganese, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS levels currently permitted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are at four parts per trillion, and all water supplies in the district are expected to require treatment for PFAS in the near future.

Dighton Discusses Solar Projects Amid Stormwater Management Concerns

Overview: In a recent Dighton Stormwater Commission meeting, one notable issue addressed was the intersection of agricultural activities and stormwater management in relation to the Blue Wave Solar project at Treemont and Middle Streets. During the meeting, significant time was dedicated to the discussion of the project’s progress and the challenges ahead. The commission debated the impact of beginning agricultural work, including decompaction and picking rocks in the array rows, while waiting for the final sign-off on the stormwater permit. This highlighted a concern about how these activities might affect the stormwater system, though it was noted that agricultural operations are typically exempt under the stormwater permit.

Townsend Water Board Grapples with Ethical Investment Dilemma

Overview: The Townsend Board of Water Commissioners convened on May 13, 2024, to discuss a range of issues affecting the local water supply, with the most contentious topic being the ethical implications of allocating lawsuit funds from companies involved in chemical contamination. The board is anticipating significant payouts over the next 13 years, which are earmarked primarily for the long-term operation and maintenance of the filters. Commissioners debated the best investment strategies for these funds and the potential increase in costs as more systems become operational. Despite reservations, the potential benefits for water takers and the maintenance costs were acknowledged.

Townsend Board Addresses Water Contamination and Liability Concerns

Overview: The Townsend Board of Water Commissioners convened on April 23rd, 2024, to tackle several issues, the most pressing being the potential contamination of private wells through septic systems and the associated personal liability for property owners. The board members present at the meeting included Todd Malanson, Ean Mata, Jessica Funi, and the superintendent, J. Xend Deranian. They discussed the necessity of addressing this pressing public health concern and explored the possibility of obtaining a state waiver for homeowners’ liability. The meeting further delved into the management of funds from a recent lawsuit settlement, potential sale of water to another town, ongoing infrastructure projects, and the implications of new EPA regulations on local residents.