Benjamin J. Morris

The meeting included discussions on updates from Weston & Sampson regarding corrections to the water/sewer study. The board addressed financial matters, including approving warrants and reviewing the treasurer's report, which covered water revenue, SBA rental, reimbursements, liens, and operating expenditures. The board discussed the extension of utility shut-offs, deciding to extend terminations until July 1, 2021, and approved the submission of liens in May. Also discussed was a customer request for a 12-month payment plan, and draft annual warrant articles. An amendment to the well contract was approved, and the superintendent provided an operations report, including updates on Grindstone well testing, demolition permits, leak surveys, and research on a dump truck purchase.

The meeting addressed subscriber concerns voiced on social media, the possibility of service terminations following the expiration of the Governor's moratorium, and a contract with Tata & Howard Associates for well activations. The board also discussed a leak on Pleasant Street and efforts to seek reimbursement from National Grid, along with lead and copper testing, system leak detection, and the replacement of a fire hydrant damaged in an accident. Additionally, the board reviewed applications for a staffing position.

The board discussed the upcoming departure of Operator O'Day and the need to recruit a replacement, including the authorization to advertise for a Water System Operator/Maintenance Laborer. They also considered increasing the compensation for another operator and discussed the potential adoption of an operator position structure with job descriptions. The board explored options for filling vacancies, including temporary part-time help or collaboration with other districts, and discussed establishing an internship program with local schools.

The meeting addressed district matters, including discussions on potential rate decreases in light of free cash certification, consideration of budget adjustments, and the impact of chemical and electricity costs on rates. The board also discussed draft budget, warrant articles, and a lead service inventory. Updates were provided on the Sargent St Water Line project, PFAS testing, lead and copper levels, and hydrant flushing. The board discussed Nationalgrid flagging hazard trees in the area where there is critical power. The board also discussed solar energy options. An executive session was held to discuss contract negotiations with the Superintendent, followed by an open meeting to vote on the contract terms.

The meeting included discussions on water use restrictions, hydrant flushing, and the installation of a water line on Sargent Street. Monitoring of arsenic levels in the well is ongoing, with plans to change out the media in July. The board reviewed the Forest Management Plan and discussed a potential agreement for a cutting plan. Additionally, there was a discussion regarding a meeting with Aquarion Water and the consensus to stay the course. The FY25 budget and warrant articles were approved, with amendments to the language in Article 4 to include free cash funding. Subscriber Buteau raised concerns about OPEB articles and the need for a rate study.