Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners - August 10, 2026

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners meeting held on August 10, 2026, primarily focused on operational and financial updates related to the town's water and sewer services. Key procurement-related discussions included concerns about the $5 million proposed emergency pumping station linked to the MWRA water connection project, with commissioners questioning the necessity and cost-effectiveness of this investment given existing emergency water connections. The board expressed frustration over the lack of updates and transparency from consultants and town officials regarding the MWRA connection status, urging a halt to further spending on consultants if progress is not demonstrated. Additionally, the board approved a motion directing the town administrator to provide the FY 2026 year-end financial report for the water and sewer enterprise funds to ensure public transparency. Other procurement-related topics included ongoing issues with the water billing system, where commissioners highlighted the need for upgraded meter technology and monthly billing to improve efficiency and customer service, noting that over $2 million had already been approved for meter upgrades. The board also discussed environmental concerns at Jarvis Farm related to vehicle pollutants and the importance of protecting this recharge area for the town's water supply. Motions passed included waiving missed appointment fees for a resident and including the superintendent's status report in the meeting minutes for public access. Overall, the meeting underscored challenges in project management, financial oversight, and infrastructure planning affecting future procurement and capital improvement decisions.