City of Lowell's City Council Meeting, Monday, May 18, 2026 Part 1

The City of Lowell City Council held a meeting on May 18, 2026, which included several procurement and budget-related discussions primarily focused on water infrastructure projects. The council approved adding a contract award for the M Dot trail to the agenda and discussed the city's application for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to finance lead and galvanized water service line replacements and a water main looping project. Preliminary cost estimates were presented, including approximately $7.4 million for a larger regional water supply plan and $577,000 for the water main loop. The council approved drafting a resolution to submit the funding application to the state. Additionally, the council considered a $47,000 contract to update the city's water asset management plan, which was approved using cash reserves. Budget discussions included the use of marijuana tax revenues and street fund allocations, with caution advised regarding reliance on non-rate revenues for water system funding to avoid future rate spikes. The council also reviewed the street improvement plan and discussed the timing of related construction projects. No final budget vote was recorded, but the council expressed intent to approve the budget following a public hearing. Public comments and council members emphasized the importance of managing fund balances prudently to mitigate future financial risks related to water infrastructure and street maintenance.