The meeting’s primary focus was the increasing delinquency rates, which are reported to be around 26%. Concerns were raised about the existing payment system, Unipay, which restricts residents from making partial payments online. This limitation was highlighted as a factor contributing to the delinquency issue. One member expressed frustration with the outdated system, noting that it only allows full payments online, while partial payments require residents to either write a check or deliver it to town hall—a process deemed inconvenient in today’s digital age. The argument was made that providing flexible payment options could alleviate financial stress for residents, many of whom live paycheck to paycheck amidst rising utility costs. The commission agreed that allowing partial payments online could be beneficial, as “some is better than none,” and could prevent residents from prioritizing other bills over their sewer payments.

The commission acknowledged the need to explore Unipay’s capabilities further and suggested reaching out to the town collector to discuss potential solutions for implementing partial payments. The conversation also touched on legal considerations and the importance of accommodating residents’ financial situations proactively, with the understanding that escalating legal fees associated with collection actions could be avoided.

Amid these discussions, the commission also turned its attention to the topic of upcoming regulatory measures outlined by Ray Pierce. The commission had been in contact with Pierce regarding the extensive requirements set to take effect over the next few years, with an estimated cost of $249,000 for services over four years. These requirements include developing maintenance schedules and adaptation plans for the sewer system. Concerns were raised about the implications of these requirements on budgeting and operational capabilities. This led to discussions about potential preventive measures and the challenges involved in implementing them.

To address these requirements, the commission discussed utilizing the capital plan line item in the fiscal year 2026 budget to cover expenses not addressed in the engineering budget. The commission praised the clarity and effectiveness of a recent presentation made to the finance committee, which had adequately answered questions from both the public and the board. The status of the assistant to the business manager position was also confirmed, with Tiffany set for ratification and expected to start shortly thereafter. Her role is seen as crucial in assisting with various tasks, including outreach efforts.

Another topic was the expiration of remote meeting legislation at the end of the month, which would necessitate a return to in-person meetings. Concerns were raised about the logistics of hosting meetings in-person while accommodating remote participation, particularly regarding public attendance. The commission expressed hope for an extension of the legislation to allow for continued hybrid meetings and acknowledged the challenges of scheduling and communicating the meeting format going forward.

The meeting also addressed the status of commission vacancies, with two three-year terms and one two-year term available. The process for getting on the ballot was outlined, and there was a consensus that outreach through different channels, including social media and letters to residents, might help attract more candidates. The idea of reissuing a letter to solicit interest was discussed, with a reminder of a prior mailing that yielded some responses.

Towards the end of the meeting, the commission briefly touched on manhole repairs and the scheduling of spring work, emphasizing the need for timely repairs and inclusion in the initial scheduling groups. The importance of maintaining focus on this topic for future discussions was noted.

The meeting concluded with a review of future agenda items, including continued discussions about legislative measures related to remote meetings and the ongoing need to address commission vacancies. The commission expressed a desire to fill these positions proactively and emphasized the necessity of flexibility in meeting formats to accommodate remote participation when needed.