One notable issue discussed was a sewer manhole overflow that occurred on Sunset Avenue the previous Sunday. Bill Bernard from the Department of Public Works (DPW) detailed the event, explaining that a resident had noticed water and a sewer smell emanating from a manhole around 7 PM. Bernard elaborated that a cracked fitting in a pressurized pipe had caused water to fill the manhole, leading to overflow every time someone flushed a toilet. The DPW responded quickly, and contractor CTE repaired the issue using a spare part.

Post-repair, the DPW covered the affected area with lime and stone dust to mitigate health risks to pets. Bernard assured the commission that the overflow did not reach Lake Whum and that other nearby manholes had been inspected without finding additional issues. The commission discussed preventive measures, such as regular inspections of manholes and the acquisition of spare parts to handle future incidents more efficiently.

The meeting also addressed the need to fill multiple vacancies on the Sewer Commission. With two positions currently open and a third expected to become available soon, Chairman John Reynolds emphasized the importance of filling these roles to ensure the commission could continue to operate effectively. Reynolds mentioned he had spoken to individuals interested in joining, including Scott Foreman, who observed the meeting. The urgency to fill these vacancies was stressed to maintain compliance with open meeting laws and to avoid operational disruptions.

Another topic was the resignation of Business Manager Paula Bertram, effective at the end of the month. Commissioners expressed their gratitude for Bertram’s service, with one member noting the challenges the commission would face without her. Bertram clarified that her resignation was not due to any issues within the town and that she had enjoyed her role. The commission discussed the process of hiring a replacement. Although a candidate with a business background had been interviewed, concerns were raised about their lack of sewer-specific experience. The commission debated whether they should have input in the hiring process, given the town charter’s stipulations.

In addition to personnel changes, the commission discussed a recent sewer manhole repair contract that necessitated rapid action. Bill Bernard pointed out that the initial draft of the Request for Proposal (RFP) required further specificity regarding payment terms and item descriptions to prevent potential misunderstandings. The commissioners agreed on the importance of moving forward quickly to secure funding and address necessary repairs to the sewer infrastructure.

Financial matters were also on the agenda, with the approval of the first quarter commitments related to quarterly sewer billing, totaling $298,500. This motion passed unanimously following a roll call vote. The business manager’s report included updates on the Munis software system used for billing and account inquiries. Despite recent billing being processed correctly, ongoing issues with account inquiry capabilities remained unresolved since April. The business manager had communicated these issues to town officials, noting that other departments faced similar difficulties. The commission considered whether the town should explore alternative software solutions, given the significant annual contract costs of $50,000 to $60,000.

An item of old business addressed a downed phone line on Dana Street, with acknowledgment that further action was needed to contact Verizon. The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude towards Bertram and another individual for their service, confirmation of the schedule for upcoming meetings, and a unanimous motion to adjourn.