During the meeting, the board faced the complex task of deciding on the water and sewer rates, with an emphasis on the financial implications for the town and its residents. The critical nature of this topic stemmed from the need to address a projected deficit in the water fund for FY 2024 and the potential for borrowing in the future. The board was presented with two options for water rates: a 4% annual increase and a level rate scenario with a 3.5% increase each year. Similarly, two scenarios for sewer rates were proposed: a 4% annual increase and a 3% increase in year one, followed by 4.2% in subsequent years.

The proposed rate changes sparked a debate among the board members. There was confusion regarding the trajectory of the rate changes and how they would impact the town’s retained earnings. The discussion also delved into the fairness of the tiered rate system, especially concerning multi-unit properties. The finance director provided clarifications and emphasized that the disparity in billing for these properties was based on an analysis using a detailed Excel file. The analysis showed that if all multi-unit accounts were given the tier one rates, there would be a total annual savings of approximately $882,000 for water and $84,000 for sewer for the 54 accounts examined.

The potential impact of the rate changes on residents prompted concern, especially considering those living in larger families who might be penalized with higher rates due to increased consumption. Some board members suggested that the tier breaks be adjusted to distribute the costs more evenly. Additionally, the implications of conservation and per capita consumption became a talking point, with suggestions that these factors should be taken into account when discussing rate adjustments.

The board also discussed the possibility of introducing a pilot program for second water meters to address issues of lawn watering and the maintenance of the community’s appearance. While some members pushed for a prompt vote on the rates, others called for further discussions, particularly concerning the treatment of multi-unit buildings. The debate touched on the technological and administrative aspects of implementing rate changes and the time required to make the necessary adjustments to the billing system.

In addition to the water rate discussions, the board addressed several other topics. There was a debate on a proposed traffic amendment that sought to restrict overnight parking of heavy and commercial vehicles on public roads, which was ultimately approved after careful consideration of the vehicle classification and weight limit.

Moreover, the board explored the relationship between Reading Community Television (RCTV) and the Reading Post amidst allegations of manipulation of timestamps for letters to the editor, which raised questions about transparency and accountability. This discussion led to a call for further investigation and communication between the involved parties.

The board’s decision to go into executive session to address the complaint was met with mixed votes and highlighted the debate over the legality and necessity of inviting a private resident to the session.

Additionally, a resident’s concern about the inequity in the water and sewer billing system for residents in multifamily buildings was echoed in the board’s later discussions, emphasizing the broader implications of the rate setting debate.

The board also discussed various community events and projects, including a new member’s introduction, well wishes for a community member’s recovery, and updates from the Parking, Traffic, and Transportation Task Force on road resurfacing and parking issues.

Finally, the meeting included discussions on funding allocations for various committees, with a focus on the needs of the Town Forest Committee, the Trails Committee, and the Historical Commission. Despite the challenge of limited funds, a motion to allocate the funds as discussed was passed.