SIC Meeting Minutes

OPENING:  A public informational special meeting of the Sewer Implementation Committee opened at 6:30 p.m.  The following members were in attendance:

 

Mr. Pinell made a motion to accept the minutes of February 28, 2017.  Mr. Pranka seconded the motion.  None opposed, the motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Patria stated that he, Mr. Brown and Mr. Pinell (Finance Committee) met with the Select Board members to discuss the Congamond Road project.  It was suggested that more information be obtained on funding before putting the project on a Town Warrant Article.  Mr. Brown stated that the Town would again apply for the Mass Works grant, however the time line may be an issue.  A contract could be bid with the installation of a dry sewer line as an alternate addition.  Once the contract is bid, there would be a more defined cost.  Mr. Pinell stated that the Finance Committee would not support the project as it would encumber Town funds until such time as the residents who choose to connect pay for a connection or betterment fee.  Mr. Brown stated that the design has already been completed, thus eliminating that cost.

The SIC members were presented with the data from the survey of the residents of North Lake Avenue, Veterans Street, Summer Drive, Bungalow Street etc.   Of the 107 surveys that were mailed, the SIC received 70 responses, 30 of which would support public sewers.  The main concern on the comments segment of the survey was the cost.  Mr. Pranka stated that the soils in the area are conducive to septic systems, however, the soils may be leaching too fast thus allowing sewage to enter the lake.  Mr. Patria stated that an aerial infrared photography was done several years ago showing pollutants entering the lake.  Due to modern technology, it may be possible to conduct another study showing the areas of the lakes that have public sewers, the areas that do not, and the amount of sewage leaching into the lake.  Mr. Brown will do some research on the cost for the aerial photography.  

The SIC members explored other options that may be of interest for connecting to the public sewer system such as Hudson Drive, located over the well head.  The sand pit operation may be coming to a close which could open a large parcel of land for business development.  Public sewers may be a catalyst for potential businesses.   There may also be potential for public sewers in the Woodside Circle area.  The houses are close together and the infrastructure would not be substantial thus lowering the betterment or a connection fee.  The SIC may issue a survey to the property owners in the area to determine their level of interest.

Mr. Brown stated that there has been no new information concerning Lakewood Village Apartment public sewer connection.

There has been no new information concerning a public sewer connection to the American Inn.

Mr. Brown stated that Town Counsel is working on the revised Sewer Regulations.

 

Mr. Brown made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:15 p.m.  Mr. Pranka seconded the motion.  The vote was unanimous in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Jean Nilsson, Secretary