0:00One notable issue addressed was the lead pipe replacement initiative spearheaded by Marina Fernandez, the newly appointed Director of Public Works. Fernandez provided a comprehensive presentation outlining the town’s plan to tackle the issue of lead pipes in its water service lines, driven by new regulatory demands from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The town’s proposed project, estimated at $1.7 million, would be funded by a 25% grant and a 75% loan from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). This project aims to replace 78 lead or galvanized service lines and conduct 500 exploratory test pits to better understand the extent of lead exposure risks in the community.

Fernandez emphasized the urgency of the project, citing the October 2027 deadline to remove all known lead lines and identify materials used in the town’s water service infrastructure. She noted that approximately 4,000 properties in Milton have service lines classified as unknown, which necessitates a thorough and immediate evaluation to mitigate health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly for children and adults. The DPW’s strategy involves employing a robust statistical model approved by the EPA to estimate the likelihood of lead presence in these unknown properties. However, the discovery of 15 older ledgers in a vault could reduce the number of unknowns, potentially by 1,000 to 2,000, offering a promising development in the town’s efforts.

During the meeting, committee members discussed the logistics and financial aspects of the project, including the coordination of lead replacement efforts with other utility projects, such as gas line work, to prevent lead exposure during concurrent activities. Questions were raised about the bidding and contractor selection processes, to which Fernandez confirmed compliance with relevant laws.

35:18The conversation also highlighted the financial implications for homeowners, as the town plans to cover the costs for known lead lines, leaving galvanized pipes subject to a 10-year replacement queue unless homeowners opt to finance replacements themselves. Concerns regarding the potential for stricter replacement requirements under new EPA guidelines were also raised, given the town’s significant number of unknown service lines.

1:33:37Switching focus, the committee examined the town’s broader financial obligations, particularly its debt management strategy. Members expressed a need for greater clarity on how new debts, including those from the lead pipe project, would impact taxpayers. Discussions about upcoming debt service additions and the town’s approach to short-term borrowing shed light on the complexities of financial planning. The committee recognized the importance of transparency and communication with residents about the financial effects of these initiatives.

In addition to fiscal matters, the committee deliberated on a proposed amendment to the town’s bylaws regarding alcohol consumption on town properties. The potential expansion of the one-day liquor license policy to include events on town property prompted a discussion about safeguards, liability, and community concerns. Members debated the risks and benefits of permitting alcohol at public events, with some advocating for clearer protocols and oversight to ensure public safety and neighborhood peace.