One item at the meeting was the update on the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) provided by Bill Bernard. The CWMP has been in progress since 2005, with its most recent update in 2016, projecting needs through 2036. Bernard underscored the plan’s role in evaluating local septic systems, environmental protection, and growth management. He identified concerns, such as the town’s unsuitability for conventional septic systems, projected population increases, and limited wastewater disposal capacity in neighboring towns, specifically Lemonster and Fitchburg.

Bernard elaborated on the phased approach of the CWMP, detailing each phase’s focus: from identifying areas needing study to evaluating treatment alternatives, and finally providing detailed recommendations. Priority areas for potential future expansion were identified, including Lower Massav, Baker Station, Lake Wham, and others. Despite a previous inquiry yielding a negative response from residents about expansion, the plan emphasized the need for institutional and management procedures prior to infrastructure efforts. Key recommendations included wastewater conservation, stormwater, and nutrient management, and developing a septage management plan.

The meeting also saw discussions pivot to the issue of commission vacancies. The lack of progress on a letter intended to attract new members prompted discussions on drafting a new, concise letter to engage potential volunteers. Suggestions included community outreach efforts, like engaging parents at local soccer events, to stimulate interest in joining the commission.

Another topic was the ongoing challenges with the Munis software, particularly in the context of the billing process. Andrew had faced numerous hurdles, including unexpected complications that required assistance from consultants. Despite these obstacles, Andrew successfully identified and corrected a substantial billing error that would have overcharged a customer by $14,000. His careful approach in checking and rechecking figures was commended by the commission. The transition of the software to a cloud-based system was anticipated to alleviate some existing issues.

Updates on manhole repairs were also provided, with Insituform slated to begin work in June. The commission expressed satisfaction with these plans, which included the submission of necessary documentation soon.

As the commission prepared for the upcoming town meeting, Bill presented a slideshow outlining three articles to be voted on, with two on the consent calendar due to their non-controversial nature. Article 22, pertaining to the budget, was identified as a critical item. It was noted that retained earnings would be used to balance the budget without raising customer rates, although increases might be necessary next year due to rising costs. Efforts to educate the public on reducing clogs were credited with a decrease in such incidents.

The presentation further detailed revenues and expenses, highlighting user fees as the largest expense due to wastewater sent to neighboring municipalities. Bill mentioned that town meetings generally feature few questions about the sewer budget.

The commission also discussed the importance of attending the town meeting, an event for the board. Clear communication was emphasized, especially given past issues with meeting room acoustics. Additionally, the hiring process for an assistant to the business manager was addressed, with a candidate named Susan expected to start on May 27th, pending final hiring steps.