A considerable portion of the meeting was dedicated to examining the draft MOU designed to foster cooperation between the wastewater, highway, and water departments. The document underwent several adjustments to clarify departmental responsibilities, notably shifting the accountability for roadway restitution to the highway department, thus reflecting accurate operational standards. The MOU also proposed quarterly meetings among departments to ensure consistent communication, a necessity highlighted by past challenges where lack of coordination led to public confusion during projects. One participant emphasized the importance of clear communication, stating, “You can do it right. There’s a way to do it right. Just communicating.”

A significant amendment to the MOU involved staffing provisions for snow events. The change from “shall provide no fewer than one and preferably two employees” to “may provide” underscored the need for flexibility, especially given the wastewater department’s ongoing staffing shortages. This amendment reflects the current challenges faced by the department in balancing plowing operations with pump station management during snow events.

In parallel, the Board addressed pressing staffing issues within the facilities department, which is struggling to fill two critical positions, including that of a custodian. The suggestion to separate the roles to improve hiring prospects was considered, alongside exploring the potential for a grade four licensed operator to manage the treatment plant. This model, used successfully in other departments, could provide an integrated staffing approach.

The meeting also tackled financial discrepancies identified during the closing of the FY25 budget. A $59,000 miscalculation linked to last-minute budget changes prompted discussions about resolving the shortfall, possibly through a housekeeping correction at the upcoming spring town meeting. Additionally, the Board approved financial adjustments in response to overestimated sewer bills for a property on Eight Short Drive. The correction reduced the bill from $138,11.23 to $316.51, reflecting updated meter readings.

Infrastructure improvements were another focal point, with updates on the laundromat on Main Street and its progress in connecting to the sewer line. The project now faces water service challenges, exploring options between a private well and upgrading its connection to town water. Concurrently, a sewer connection matter for 29 Road was discussed, affirming capacity for connection and leading to a vote approving the sewer capacity, contingent on further logistical discussions.

Updates on the leeching fields and hydro seeding efforts were provided, with measures taken to mitigate storm-induced erosion until new vegetation establishes. The contract with CDM remains active, allowing for spring evaluations. The Board noted an increase in development requests, prompting a call to streamline the betterment process to handle applications.

The meeting concluded with a focus on routine tank maintenance, revealing a failed diffuser support bracket during the inspection of tank number three. The repair process highlighted challenges with rebar presence, necessitating thinner rods for new supports. Staffing matters were revisited, with requests for two new positions aimed at bolstering administrative and operational support within the plant and collection system.