A significant portion of the meeting centered around a detailed presentation by Dave Pricket from DPC Engineering on the fiscal year 2025 sewer rates. He highlighted the concerning drop in sewer consumption, the lowest in a decade, which had impacted revenue streams. Pricket outlined three rate alternatives for the board’s consideration. The first option involved adjusting the variable rate per thousand gallons, while the second proposed increasing the minimum service fee. The third alternative suggested a compromise, aiming to balance financial impacts on consumers, especially low-usage households.

The board engaged in a discussion about the implications of each alternative, touching on the fixed nature of costs such as debt service from the wastewater treatment plant project. There was a consensus on the necessity to adjust base and minimum charges rather than increasing the variable rate. The presentation also detailed the town’s ongoing and future sewer infrastructure projects, highlighting the need for maintenance and upgrades, particularly in areas leading to the treatment plant. The board acknowledged the receipt of a grant for an asset management plan to assess pipe conditions, though funding for larger projects remained insufficient.

In tandem with sewer rate deliberations, infrastructure projects were a focal point, particularly the condition of the sewer pipes on Pine Nook Road, described as “the worst pipes in the town.” The board discussed the costs and implications of delaying necessary repairs, with ongoing replacement efforts supported by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Financing options, including low-interest loans from the State Revolving Fund, were explored to address upcoming projects. The board also examined the effluent pipe replacement, projected to cost between two to two-and-a-half million dollars, factoring in construction requirements driven by environmental permitting.

The meeting also touched upon the sewer system’s operational challenges, particularly the increasing costs of sludge disposal, noted as a budget line item. Discussion about the number of sewer users paying the minimum fee highlighted the careful consideration required in adjusting rates. The board explored the potential of a sewer committee to manage these complexities.

In addition to infrastructure, the meeting addressed staffing concerns within the health department and the need for a new health agent. The board expressed satisfaction with the proposed candidate and moved forward with the hiring process. There was also discussion around public health initiatives, including flu clinics organized by the health department, and the importance of outreach to senior citizens.

Moreover, the board reviewed community development projects and appointments, including the recommendation for Gretchen Law to join the Deerfield Wells Trust. The agenda also included the approval of one-day wine and liquor licenses for upcoming events and discussions on police union negotiations.