Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners - September 14, 2026

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners of Walpole convened on September 14, 2026, to discuss several procurement and budget-related issues concerning the water and sewer departments. Key topics included opposition to Article 6, which proposed transferring funds from the stormwater enterprise fund and potentially increasing water and sewer rates; the commissioners voted not to support this article due to concerns about unnecessary rate hikes and budget mismanagement. Discussion also covered Article 7, involving capital budget non-borrowing items, including a proposed $825,000 expenditure for water meter system upgrades and a $5 million pump station project, with commissioners expressing skepticism about continuing payments to the consulting firm Western and Samson due to project failures. Additionally, the meeting addressed the transition to a new billing system (MUN link) projected to cost $27,500 for implementation and $41,148 annually, aimed at improving billing efficiency and customer service. The commissioners also discussed individual water metering for a 16-unit condominium, supporting the installation of individual electronic meters. Concerns were raised about the absence of key town officials, including the superintendent and finance director, and the overall unstable leadership within the water and sewer department. No votes were taken on Articles 7 or 8 pending further information. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.