Barnstable Municipal Water Supply Board 10-20-2026

The Barnstable Municipal Water Supply Board met on October 20, 2026. Staff reported on water-system work, including a tank inspection that found an open roof seam at the Merry Dunn tank, with repairs being scheduled by the Town, and installation of a replacement chlorine pump. The Straightway project was reported as on schedule and under budget, with foundations underway. The board also reviewed a preliminary rate and capital forecast—not an approval of rates—which included a proposed well-replacement program, additional projected costs, and the end of approximately $228,000 in annual county settlement proceeds after FY2027. The consultant’s draft rate scenario assumed 5% increases across rates and 15% increases for residential use above 60 CCF; the board requested further analysis before considering a recommendation next month. Staff said a water-service-line inventory bid package was being prepared and that an RFP for the master plan update was being finalized for bidding.

The board voted unanimously to support a letter for the Barnstable Land Trust’s request for $75,000 in Community Preservation Act funding toward acquiring a one-acre undeveloped parcel at 52 Whipple Drive. The acquisition price is $160,000, with total project costs estimated at $231,000; the parcel would help protect nearby drinking-water resources. No contract award or water-system rate change was approved. The board also voted to end water-conservation restrictions effective immediately.