00:04The most notable discussion revolved around the approval of a sewer connection for a property on Main Street. This connection required navigation through technical and logistical challenges, particularly due to the presence of a Verizon telephone bank on the sidewalk that complicated a direct sewer line installation. The existing infrastructure, with the last manhole located on Summer Street and extending to Main Street near 198 Main Street, presented a challenge for connecting the property on Main Street to the main sewer line.

16:42To overcome these difficulties, an innovative solution involving directional drilling was proposed. This method would allow the connection to be made without disturbing the sidewalk or the telephone bank, minimizing disruption to existing infrastructure. The proposed plan included creating a shallow drilling pit to accommodate a 6-inch lateral pipe from 200 Main Street to the stub at 198, with the possibility of avoiding significant excavation. There was consensus that this approach would mitigate the need for extensive disruption, such as removing signage or rock walls on the property.

Concerns about the potential need to dig within the parking lot of 200 Main Street were addressed by suggesting an entry point from the side of the building, avoiding the need to remove existing structures. The broader implications of this connection were also discussed, with participants noting the potential for future extensions of the sewer system along Main Street. While immediate plans did not include such extensions, the connection on Main Street was seen as a temporary solution to address current septic system concerns.

13:23The vote to approve the connection was unanimous, with the understanding that future discussions would be necessary to address connection fees and betterment rates. The anticipated increase in betterment rates and specific fees for the six-bedroom property were discussed, totaling $44,000.

05:55In addition to the sewer connection, the meeting covered a range of infrastructure and budget topics, including a proposal for underground utility installation to minimize disruption on busy roads. This method was preferred by utility companies and was seen as a way to connect new houses to existing infrastructure without surface disturbances.

26:50Fiscal updates were also a focal point, with reports indicating a positive closeout for the fiscal year 2025 budget. An email from the finance department confirmed that the budget was on track, alleviating concerns about the need for extra reserve funds. Notably, septage revenue exceeded projections, with actual figures nearing $618,000 due to additional waste accepted from treatment plants experiencing issues. This surplus was viewed positively.

29:51However, operational challenges, particularly staffing, remained a concern. A worker’s injury and potential surgery highlighted the need for additional personnel to handle workloads effectively. Despite the introduction of a new laborer, the department still faced shortages, prompting schedule adjustments among team members to accommodate increased demands. The leadership was commended for managing these challenges, with emphasis on internal promotion and succession planning to maintain continuity and expertise.

32:52The meeting also touched on wastewater management issues, with discussions on the potential merger of the water and sewer commission to improve efficiency. Suggestions included forming a Department of Public Works (DPW) board and conducting a comprehensive study to assess the situation over the course of a year. The potential for a DPW was seen as a way to address operational issues and improve resource allocation.

Staffing and resource allocation were further discussed, with the physical demands on the workforce highlighted by the need to shovel out 16 pump stations by hand. Solutions such as hiring additional temporary staff or outsourcing certain responsibilities were considered to alleviate pressure on the existing workforce, especially during peak seasons.

39:09Performance evaluations and coordination between the water department and billing office were also addressed, with an emphasis on meeting billing deadlines and reconciling meter readings for properties with multiple meters. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.