A primary point of contention was the draft budget, which proposed a rate increase of either 5% or 7%. The board ultimately agreed on a 5% increase, highlighting the need to keep rate hikes below double digits.

In addition to the rate increase discussion, the board considered changes to the fee structures, specifically rounding fees to whole numbers. This was suggested to simplify billing and better reflect the actual service costs, especially given the hidden costs associated with employee compensation. Members debated the justification for high fees, especially for services like water turn-on, which were not frequently utilized. There was a shared concern about maintaining fiscal stability within the Enterprise account to adequately cover municipal costs.

The board also explored the introduction of a tiered fine structure for water restriction violations, moving away from a flat 200% charge. The proposal emphasized a warning for the first offense, followed by escalating fines for further violations. There was debate over whether increasing fines was necessary, given the absence of fines issued in previous years.

Unauthorized water usage and associated penalties were another area of focus. The board discussed clarifying definitions related to water theft, such as “use” and “tampering,” to ensure proper billing and enforcement. Unauthorized use of fire hydrants was highlighted, with proposed charges set at $225 plus a $110 fine for violations. The board planned to amend the rules and regulations to correct a typographical error and enhance clarity before finalizing the document.

The discussion also extended to the planning of an opening ceremony for a new water project, with a proposed expenditure cap of $3,000. The board emphasized the importance of simplicity and cost-effectiveness for the event. The event aimed to highlight the quality of water provided by the community, while managing logistics to prevent local residents from being overburdened.

To ensure broad outreach for the ceremony, the board agreed to send notifications with the April water bill and distribute flyers at various community locations. The flyer content would be reviewed in a future meeting to guarantee accuracy and effectiveness. The board recognized the significance of fostering good relationships with legislators and dignitaries through thoughtful planning and execution of the event.

Additionally, the board addressed logistical concerns about the upcoming town meeting on May 6, deciding to extend the sign-up period until May 9 to accommodate residents. A suggestion was made to position a sign-up table on the first floor to alleviate congestion during the check-in process.

Updates from the superintendent’s report included the opening of the treatment plant, which was scheduled for the following day, although some construction work on the garage remained. The board was awaiting authorization from the Department of Public Health to introduce water into the system following an inspection. Delays in generator installations and concerns about existing generators’ efficiency were also discussed, with improvements in water management noted since previous well operation restrictions were lifted.

The board reviewed the status of water meter replacements and discussed new developments approved by the planning board. An incident at McDonald’s involving a sprinkler system malfunction was also addressed, leading to recommendations for inspecting their irrigation system.

Finally, the board tackled the issue of outstanding payments, revealing that 152 customers had unpaid water bills from 2023 totaling $144,000. The board reiterated its stance on not offering further leniency to those who had failed to adhere to payment plans.