The board was presented with a proposal by Greg Roy from Dillson Roy and Gary Lorden from Benjamin Builders, detailing a new development on a 50-acre parcel of land. This development requires an 8-inch water main extension from Reservoir Road to provide water service to 25 lots, with a terminal hydrant at the dead end of Round Road. The developers noted that several existing homes along Round Road, Parmentor, and Ruth would benefit from this extension, a plan approved by the fire chief. Soil tests for on-site sewage disposal have been conducted, and a notice of intent has been filed with the conservation commission to address wetland areas on the property.

However, the financial implications of the project raised concerns. Lorden expressed that the water line extension’s pricing was unexpectedly high, leading to an exploration of potential grant opportunities to offset costs. His daughter, who was researching grants, had filed an application for state grants, including the One Stop Growth Grant, which could support infrastructure development. Despite promising responses, there was uncertainty regarding eligibility due to Lunenburg’s population exceeding certain program limits. The estimated infrastructure installation cost is approximately $840,000, prompting discussions on grant applications and strategic project alignment to secure financial assistance.

Community concerns were voiced by Mary Perkins, a resident affected by the current water line’s termination at Ruth Road, impacting four homes. Perkins presented a letter signed by the affected residents, urging the board to consider including their homes in the planned extension. The board acknowledged the importance of timing, especially with Kadings, a paving contractor scheduled to work on the road this summer. The potential to extend the water line concurrently was seen as advantageous, though contingent on manageable costs and potential grant funding.

A point of contention arose regarding the SRF application, where a citizen questioned the submission of a $40 million funding application in July, contrary to the board’s earlier decision not to apply that year. Concerns were raised about the superintendent submitting the application without board approval, leading to a call for clarity on the decision process. Board members expressed discomfort, emphasizing the need to review previous records to address the citizen’s questions accurately.

The board also discussed the purchase of a rubber tire excavator, essential for future projects such as main replacements. The focus was on a model presented by Volvo, noted for its stability and operational capabilities. Budget constraints were highlighted, with a proposed expenditure of up to $200,000 for the machine, considering possible cost reductions by excluding non-essential attachments. The importance of this equipment in facilitating effective main breaks and replacements was underscored, alongside a recent main break on Route 2A that required repair.

Further discussions revolved around ongoing structural issues with water pipes, exploring potential solutions like structural lining to prevent leaks and failures. The viability of a cross-country main to a farm was debated, facing opposition due to potential developmental impacts. Funding strategies, particularly concerning the SRF and emerging contaminants grants, were topics, with a deadline looming for public voting on financing options. The board acknowledged the necessity for transparent communication and strategic planning to address community concerns and infrastructure needs.