Colin Stokes

Key discussions during the meeting focused on Water Treatment Plant (WTP) updates, including awaiting final design documents and the submission of the Conservation Management Permit (CMP) to the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (HNESP). Financial matters were reviewed, requiring the Utility Director to send a clarifying memorandum to the Town Administrator. Significant departmental changes included the immediate resignation of a Water Operator and the resignation of the Utility Director effective January 15, 2026, prompting discussions on utilizing contract operations temporarily and seeking mutual aid staffing. The Board also addressed preparations for the upcoming Budget Season.

The board addressed the resignation of the Utility Director and discussed the process for filling the resulting vacancy, specifically regarding the potential to contact previous applicants.

The meeting addressed several operational items, beginning with departmental and staffing updates, which prompted a commissioner's recusal regarding discussions on contract operators. A key update confirmed that Thomas Lannan will proceed as the next Utility Director, with a start date set for February 9th. The discussion concerning contract operations involved the evaluation of two companies, Weston & Sampson and Bobrek; the Board ultimately agreed that the proposal from Weston & Sampson was the best option, and a commissioner was tasked with executing the services agreement and arranging for an operator to assist the town promptly. The meeting concluded with the determination of the next meeting date.

The meeting included staff updates, noting the promotion of Blake Rooney to Acting Operations Manager and the filing of a Temporary Emergency Certification request for him to serve as Primary Operator. Staff plans to advertise for Water Operators and Laborers. Discussions took place regarding assistance from HAWSCO, with plans to solicit proposals for six-month contract operations from Bobrek for comparison. A significant action was the motion to offer Tom Lannon the position of Utility Director, with a start date of February 9, 2026. The board also entered and exited an Executive Session for strategy sessions regarding negotiations with nonunion personnel. An anticipated future discussion involves upgrading the SCADA software and purchasing XLReporter to streamline state reporting.

The board reviewed updates regarding the new water treatment plant, including operational concerns such as tank level cycling and chemical usage. The Water Enterprise budget was discussed, with a specific focus on overtime expenditures. Additionally, the new utility director provided an assessment of the water system, addressing staffing challenges, the need for broader job advertisements, and the status of the sanitary survey response to state environmental agencies.