The presence of chlorinated byproducts, specifically high levels of CTHM in the water supply, prompted the Commission to outline immediate and long-term strategies to manage the potential health risks. CTHM, a group of chemicals including chloroform, bromoform, chlorodibromomethane, and bromodichloromethane, when found in high concentrations, can be harmful. The Commission discussed implementing public notice and flushing rotations as immediate measures to mitigate the issue. Additionally, there were reports of a water main break on Old Taunton Avenue and a service leak at the corner of North Washington and Cobb Street, raising concerns about possible water contamination affecting the rail trail project.

Infrastructure projects discussed included the progress on Norwood and Cobb Street, with the Commission noting community concerns about vibrations and noise at the Cobb Street site. The Commission also deliberated over the Elm Street project’s options, considering the cost benefits of a force main line over a gravity system. Moreover, a proposal was made to create a summary of invoices to streamline the review process for sewer projects’ funds allocation.

Operational challenges were highlighted, such as sewer issues at Redmill Village and Cob Street Pump Station, and radio communication problems at the Nolwood Pump Station. The activation and management of a water filling station were also topics of discussion due to the necessity to turn on well 3, raising questions about water quality and staffing considerations.

The Commission grappled with the color and organics present in the water supply, recognizing the need for modifications to the treatment plant and Department of Public approval. The safety and compliance with standards were debated, with an emphasis on public education to allay any concerns. The correlation between groundwater levels and water quality was also noted, with the expectation that the color issue may improve as groundwater levels decrease.

Regarding security, the need for installing cameras at a facility near the treatment plant was discussed to prevent unauthorized access at night.

A resident on South W Street facing a high water bill due to a leak sought the Commission’s assistance. While the Commission could not formalize a payment plan, they chose to take no action on the matter.

Updates from the assistant superintendent included the approval of Capital items and the budget at the town meeting. There was a concern expressed over the lead and copper sampling, as the Commission might not meet the minimum requirements due to the impact of whole house filters on sample validity.

The Commission also tackled the need for public outreach and dialogue with stakeholders, such as the Historical Society, on the location of a pump station site. The importance of project approvals and permits, including a Stormwater Permit from the Conservation Commission, was underscored.

A point of discussion was the potential loss of a $3.5 million grant if the Commission failed to convince town boards and committees of the importance of a particular project. The members recognized the gravity of this opportunity, emphasizing the need to secure stakeholder approval and proceed with the project in a timely manner.

Lastly, fiscal management was addressed with the consideration of transferring surplus funds from Wells five and six to the South Wester Street H Street water main project and water treatment plant improvements. The intent to award for the South Wester Street project was announced, and pay estimate number one for the Cob Street Pump Station Improvement project was approved.