A point of discussion centered on the aging cooling tower at the wastewater treatment plant, which had been operational for over two decades and showed signs of significant deterioration. Change order number seven, proposed by Daniel Oon and Sons, called for an additional $46,258.90 to address these issues, part of a larger $960,000 addition to the project scope. This substantial figure prompted inquiries from commission members about the necessity and justification for the expenditure. The explanation given linked the need for a new cooling tower to ensure operational integrity, which involved comprehensive work like pouring a new slab, installing new lines, and setting up a new tower. These enhancements were justified as essential for maintaining safety and efficiency at the facility.

Safety concerns extended to the bridges leading to the primary clarifiers, which were deemed unsafe following an anonymous complaint that led to an OSHA inspection. As a result, personnel access was restricted, requiring the use of a man lift for operations. The commission laid out plans to construct new, galvanized bridges to replace the existing, structurally unsound ones. The process would involve keeping the old bridges in place until new ones were fabricated and installed.

Financial implications of the additional $960,000 assigned to the project were discussed, confirming compliance with Massachusetts procurement laws. The commission recognized the need for these investments to prevent operational disruptions and enhance safety. A timeline for the project’s completion was outlined, with the cooling tower expected by April and the bridge installations anticipated by summer.

Another focal point was the approval of change order number four for CDM, amounting to $200,000, linked to ongoing work on a previously approved contract for O’Connell. This order was not for design work but for overseeing the installation and ensuring proper documentation. The resident engineer, Bobowski, was credited for his extensive knowledge of the project, having been involved since the mid-1990s, which was deemed critical for a smooth project closure.

The commission also addressed the Mother’s Brook sewer project, approving a $860,000 change order for Woodward and Curran. This project involves replacing over three miles of deteriorating pipe, with coordination required due to proximity to railroad tracks. The urgency was underscored by potential complications from increased commuter rail activity. Despite initial estimates around $1.1 million, the additional cost was necessary for inspection and design work, with the overall project cost projected at $24 million.

Further into the meeting, the commission awarded a contract for the North End Interceptor Silver Improvement Phase 1A to IG Construction Company for $1,226,000. This project will cover approximately 4,000 feet of infrastructure, extending from Route 24. IG Construction was praised for their reputation and readiness to begin work.

In financial matters, the commission received a $232,300.38 credit from Bisco Contracting as a balancing adjustment for a project originally valued at $6 million. This adjustment marked the project’s conclusion, with minimal cost increases throughout its duration.

The meeting also touched upon a Community Utilities Efficiency Audit contract with Wright-Pier, valued at $100,000. The audit, a response to city council inquiries, aims to identify efficiency improvements. Concerns were raised about its interaction with existing union agreements, highlighting the need for discussions with union representatives. The audit is expected to start in January, with results potentially shared with the city council.

Lastly, the commission recognized the impending retirement of John Linart, who managed the industrial pre-treatment program for ten years. His contributions were acknowledged, with members encouraged to express their gratitude.