16:53Key discussions centered on high water usage notifications, sparked by a resident’s complaint about an increase in their water bill on Hollis Road. The resident had not been promptly informed of their excessive water use, which led to a considerable waste of water. The board acknowledged the delay in the notification process, which currently spans from meter reading to data processing over one to two weeks. The resident argued for more immediate communication. The board agreed that the notification system needed reassessment and committed to reviewing their policy for improvement.

Further discussions revealed that another resident at nine Courtland Circle faced similar notification issues, where a leaking hose was discovered only after receiving a delayed letter from the board. The board debated the efficiency of relying solely on physical letters for communication, considering the possibility of them being mistaken for junk mail. They agreed to explore more robust notification methods to ensure residents are informed of high water usage more swiftly, potentially preventing unnecessary water waste.

54:11Simultaneously, the board deliberated on the challenges posed by fire department operations, particularly concerning the pressure management when filling tanker trucks from hydrants. A recent incident highlighted the problem when a sudden spike in water pressure during a fire alarm activation at a local school resulted in rapid line filling, raising concerns about potential water main breaks. The board emphasized the need for collaboration with the fire department to develop effective protocols for hydrant use.

01:00:07The board proposed organizing training sessions for fire department personnel to educate them on proper hydrant operation methods, with a focus on gradual filling and shutting off to avoid pressure spikes. They discussed coordinating with the fire chief to schedule these training sessions at the fire station, where hydrants and necessary facilities are readily accessible. The board acknowledged that similar issues have been reported by other water departments.

26:12Additionally, the board explored the potential implementation of new technology to enhance water usage management. They considered upgrading radio systems for real-time data monitoring, which would allow for quicker identification of leaks and other issues. A proposal was also made to introduce devices that can automatically shut off water based on usage patterns, aimed at preventing excessive bills for homeowners due to undetected leaks. However, the board recognized the need to balance technological innovation with the current workload of the staff, who are already managing multiple tasks.

46:36In another significant decision, the board approved a vote for Waterworth Utility Management, a program that offers comprehensive financial modeling and future planning capabilities. The program promises to aid in forecasting budget rate increases and adjusting rates based on various scenarios, providing clearer financial oversight for the board. Members expressed optimism about the program’s ability to support capital improvements and expense management, highlighting its benefits for the district’s financial planning.

03:02They recognized the importance of careful consideration in each case while maintaining the integrity and sustainability of the water district. The board agreed to postpone decisions on specific cases until more data could be gathered, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluation in policy applications.