At the forefront of the meeting was a heated dialogue concerning water system issues experienced by John Francis, a resident of West Avenue. Francis, who has lived in the area for 25 years, raised concerns about the town’s handling of water shut-off valves on his property. He recounted a past incident where the town’s attempt to shut off the water led to complications when it was turned back on. The valves, buried underground, had necessitated excavation work that Francis claims damaged his concrete driveway. He argued that the town should bear responsibility for these repairs, citing the impact of their work on his property.

Francis expressed frustration with the responses from the water department, describing them as dismissive excuses about the pipe and concrete conditions. He emphasized, “I think the thing that you guys should do is replace… the pipes,” highlighting his dissatisfaction with the handling of the situation. The board members engaged in a discussion to clarify the responsibilities regarding the infrastructure, acknowledging the complexities involved in distinguishing between town and resident accountability for such maintenance.

The board expressed a shared interest in resolving the issue promptly, considering proposals to saw-cut the concrete and access the affected pipes without further delay. One member remarked, “We’ve already impacted the concrete; there’s enough evidence that it’s been impacted and something needs to be done.” The meeting revealed a collective concern for addressing the problem expediently, even as they grappled with the financial implications and responsibility for the repairs.

Another topic was the ongoing Massachusetts Department of Transportation (Mass DOT) project aimed at improving sidewalks and intersections. Concerns were raised about the timing of the work during peak summer months, which could exacerbate traffic disruptions. The board discussed ensuring that the state would cover any additional costs incurred due to these delays.

The meeting also touched on the development of a new pump station and associated infrastructure. The board debated whether to separate the contracts for different phases of the project, ultimately leaning towards keeping them together to ensure coordination. The potential for state funding through the Mass Works program was mentioned, though this would only cover certain aspects of the project, necessitating careful planning and budgeting.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the town’s ongoing struggle with unaccounted water losses. The board reviewed sanitary survey results, which suggested improvements in staff licensing capabilities to enhance operational efficiency. It was noted that leaks and outdated meters could contribute to the issue, prompting calls for a water audit and consideration of new metering technologies to improve data accuracy.

The board also delved into the issue of a moratorium on new water system connections, which has implications for future development. While the moratorium restricts new services, existing connections can increase water usage, leading to questions about how this policy affects potential developments, such as those at the local mall. The board recognized the need for clear guidance and possibly a technical review process to navigate these legal and logistical challenges effectively.

Lastly, the meeting addressed a proposal concerning the redevelopment of the old street fire station property. A developer’s interest in installing private wells and transferring them to the town raised concerns about water quality, given the site’s proximity to the ocean. The board called for further research and a formal presentation to assess the project’s feasibility and address potential impacts on the town’s water supply.