The session began with commissioners expressing farewells to Bertram, who is leaving for a new position. Mike Mackin remarked, “I want to wish you the best of luck, Paula,” while Brett Ramsden added, “we’re jealous of the town of Concord already because we know what we’re losing.” Bill Bernard echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that Paula’s support and friendship would be missed.

As the meeting proceeded, the commission addressed the recruitment of sewer commissioner volunteers. Paula had prepared a mailing to be sent to approximately 751 sewer district customers. This letter, edited by Town Manager Heather R. Lemieux, was discussed for its distribution methods and associated costs, estimated at nearly $500 for postage. With Paula soon departing, concerns arose about managing the mailing, prompting suggestions for assistance from Jane R. and another volunteer.

The content of the letter was also debated, particularly a bullet point suggesting the commission could approve extensions of the existing sewer system. It was clarified that such extensions must occur within the designated sewer service area. Bill Bernard suggested that outreach to non-customers via social media or local publications could help spread the word about the vacancies. Mike Mackin expressed willingness to draft a letter to the editor to further publicize the vacancies, leading to a motion authorizing him to do so, which passed unanimously.

Attention then shifted to the assistant business manager position. Concerns were raised about the implications of having two new employees start simultaneously. Mike Mackin volunteered to participate in the interview process, and it was mentioned that Jane R. would continue to assist in the office.

The commission also tackled budget-related issues, including a shortfall in betterment revenue, which was $18,000 less than originally estimated. Adjustments were proposed to various budget line items to account for this shortfall. The consulting services line item was decreased, while utilities costs were increased due to an unexpected rate hike from Unitil. Legal expenses were reduced since they had not been fully utilized in the previous year, and engineering costs were adjusted with the understanding that some could be phased into future fiscal years.

When the business manager sought authorization for these line item transfers, it was recognized that such moves typically occur later in the fiscal year. However, given the new business manager’s need for a realistic starting point, this early adjustment was deemed appropriate. A motion to approve the transfers passed without opposition.

Grease trap compliance was another topic of concern, with notifications for renewals drafted but issues of non-compliance identified, particularly with one establishment, Kindred Spirits. The prior fee structure set a fee of $150 for compliance and an additional $100 fine for non-compliance. There was a discussion about whether to enforce the fine, with mixed opinions among the members. Despite concerns about the fairness of imposing fines when reminders had not been consistently communicated, a motion to impose the $100 fine on non-compliant establishments passed.

The replacement of section lines along Route 1 was another issue discussed. The contractor’s estimated cost for this project was $64,625, with an additional anticipated expense for pumping, previously estimated at approximately $8,000. A proposal was made to authorize moving forward with the project, incorporating a contingency for pumping costs, with a suggested upper limit of $6,000 or potentially $8,000. Concerns were raised regarding the budget implications of this project, but it was stated that funds were still available within the overall budget to accommodate these additional expenses. A motion to accept the contractor’s estimate and include the proposed contingency passed unanimously.

The meeting also addressed the need for an emergency response plan, particularly in light of previous incidents on Harris Street. The importance of having a plan in place was emphasized, especially for reporting requirements and establishing clear points of contact during emergencies. Additionally, ongoing projects and permits were discussed, including the privilege fees that would need assessment and the potential for a $45,000 grant from the green community’s committee.