Falmouth Faces Debate Over Nitrogen Regulations and Septic System Costs

Overview: During the recent Falmouth Select Board meeting, concerns about the financial and regulatory impacts of new nitrogen regulations dominated discussions. Residents voiced their frustrations over the costs associated with upgrading to Innovative Alternative (IA) septic systems, which are being mandated to address nitrogen pollution in local water bodies. The board considered various perspectives on how to balance environmental needs with financial realities.

Norton Finance Committee Grapples with $50 Million PFAS Water Treatment Mandate

Overview: The Norton Finance Committee convened recently to discuss major financial undertakings, primarily focusing on the need to address the town’s water supply contamination and necessary infrastructure improvements. The committee unanimously approved a $445,000 request for engineering work required to comply with a Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) administrative consent order. This order mandates actions due to elevated PFAS levels in the water supply, necessitating a comprehensive response that could cost over $50 million. Additionally, the committee deliberated on a potential $3.5 million water main replacement on Elm Street and a contentious $10.7 million roof replacement project for the Norton Middle School.

Chatham Planning Board Deliberates on Penrose Project’s Parking and Access Concerns

Overview: The recent Chatham Planning Board meeting focused heavily on the Penrose project on Meeting House Road, with discussions centering on parking adequacy, pedestrian access, and compliance with local and state requirements. The board deliberated various aspects of the proposed development, highlighting the need for more parking spaces, improved pedestrian and cyclist access, and ensuring compatibility with surrounding properties.

Milltown Borough Council Approves Grant Applications Amid Concerns Over High Water Rates

Overview: The Milltown Borough Council meeting saw discussions focused on the approval of grant applications to replace lead service lines, ongoing concerns over rising water and sewer rates, and procedural debates over establishing committees for local projects. The council approved initiatives aimed at infrastructure improvements while grappling with resident concerns over utility costs.

Egg Harbor City Approves Stormwater Management Contract Without Requiring City Funds

Overview: During a recent Egg Harbor City Council meeting, the council approved a contract with R&B for planning and design services related to stormwater management, a project with an estimated cost of up to $2 million. Notably, the contract does not require a financial match from the city, presenting a valuable opportunity to improve city infrastructure without direct financial burden on local resources. This development was described as a “total home run” for the city, given past experiences in other municipalities where similar initiatives required substantial local funding.