The sewer system discussions were driven by a feasibility study conducted by Weston and Samson Engineers, which highlighted the town’s need to explore connections with neighboring communities due to exceeded capacity limits in past years. The town’s current agreement allows for a maximum of 2.66 million gallons of wastewater per day, a threshold that has been breached, prompting a past sewer moratorium. The engineers outlined five potential routes for transferring wastewater, emphasizing the need for substantial upgrades to pump stations and intermunicipal agreements with towns like Bedford and Burlington. Alternative routes presented various logistical challenges, including complex crossings and the necessity for extensive coordination with federal, state, and local agencies. The timeline for any project completion is estimated at around ten years, further complicating the town’s immediate need for solutions.

The financial implications of these infrastructure plans were a concern, as the potential costs could result in a 50% to 124% increase in sewer bills for Chelmsford’s 13,000 sewer users. The board acknowledged the burden these costs could place on residents and businesses, particularly in areas like Vinyl Square, where business owners might struggle to absorb increased rates without gaining additional sewer capacity. There was also discussion about the potential impact on other community resources, such as schools and traffic, if residential developments expand capacity demands.

Tree management also took center stage, with the tree committee presenting an update on their initiatives. They have successfully planted 141 trees recently, thanks to partnerships and grants. The committee proposed a new memorial tree program, allowing residents to donate trees to be planted on town property. This program would offer options for commemorative plaques, though concerns were raised about the potential clutter from too many plaques. The board showed support for the program, emphasizing the need for strategic planting locations and manageable maintenance, particularly given the high costs of watering trees.

In another infrastructure-related topic, the meeting addressed a bid award for fire protection services at the town clerk’s record storage project. A bid from Rustic Fire Protection was approved at $209,500, despite being higher than the initial estimate. The board discussed the volatile bidding climate and industry-specific factors contributing to the cost disparity. Election reimbursement funds and other sources will cover the shortfall.

Further, the board explored the viability of consolidating the town’s three water districts. The proposed independent assessment would evaluate whether consolidation could enhance service delivery and transparency, especially in light of upcoming regulatory challenges like PFAS regulations. While there was acknowledgment of the potential benefits, concerns were raised about the water districts’ willingness to participate in such an assessment, highlighting transparency and cooperation issues.

In addition to infrastructure and water management, the board addressed routine matters such as approving stop signs on Brentwood Road and discussing upcoming financial forecasts. The town manager outlined the commencement of the FY27 budgetary process, noting a projected 13% increase in health insurance costs due to rising claims and specialty pharmaceutical expenses. The board also touched on local infrastructure projects, including updates on the fire station project and Parker Middle School’s architectural services selection process.

Finally, the board approved a memorandum of agreement regarding collective bargaining with the public safety dispatchers union. This agreement included wage increases and adjustments to shift differentials and longevity pay, aligning with previous agreements with other town employees.