The discussion on the Windgate project addressed concerns about water usage and the legal implications of proceeding under the current water moratorium. Selectmen were divided on whether the project, which involves reallocating rather than adding new units, could bypass the moratorium. Deio emphasized that the project’s water consumption would not exceed previously approved levels and argued that the construction timeline, ending in 2027, would mitigate immediate impacts on the town’s water resources. However, selectmen expressed apprehension about setting a precedent for other developments and the need to maintain consistency in enforcing the moratorium. The debate concluded with a decision to seek legal counsel to clarify historical approvals and determine the project’s eligibility under current regulations.

The meeting also covered the town’s ongoing construction projects and their financial implications. A payment request from CC Construction for trench work highlighted additional expenses incurred due to night paving, totaling over $109,000. Officials discussed strategies to minimize costs, such as scheduling work during school vacations and keeping one lane open to maintain traffic flow. These measures aim to complete construction without exceeding budget constraints.

Maintenance of the town’s water wells was another focal point, with updates on recent cleaning efforts that improved water capacity. The board considered purchasing new equipment over rehabilitating outdated parts. The discussion introduced a new drought resiliency and water efficiency grant program, offering up to $50,000 per project, encouraging proposals that promise significant reductions in water use. The board highlighted the importance of submitting grant applications promptly, with a deadline set for January 31.

The board further addressed water management challenges, emphasizing the need for accurate data collection to manage unaccounted-for water. Faulty meters had led to estimates in the latest readings, prompting discussions on the necessity of more frequent monitoring. Suggestions included conducting another leak detection program to verify findings and considering public education campaigns to promote water conservation during high-usage periods, particularly in the summer.

The meeting concluded with updates on completed projects, such as the Soul Boost Pump Station, and community feedback on recent repair work. A resident’s water bill issue was discussed, leading to a recommendation to adjust the bill based on historical usage patterns. The board also touched on the importance of departmental reports and ensuring essential services remain funded amidst financial constraints.