David Bailey

The committee discussed revisions to the safety manual, focusing on updating member names, seeking Selectboard approval, editing the appendix, and incorporating new inspection forms. Additionally, the committee addressed the status of 2025 inspections, specifically regarding the warming hut and unresolved infractions with the Hydro department that require Town Manager intervention. Finally, an incident report covering the prior months was reviewed to evaluate reportable events and prevention measures.

The Commission addressed a billing dispute regarding water meter functionality and usage levels. Members endorsed an informational packet to be distributed to the public concerning the Solar Array Warrant Article. The meeting included the review and approval of financial journals, income statements, and specific billing adjustment and abatement requests. Operational reports were provided regarding water treatment, including freezing issues, main breaks, and maintenance requirements for wastewater treatment equipment. Additionally, the Commission discussed 2026 water rates, including adjustments to flat rate usage, the implementation of new service fees, and the potential transition to quarterly billing.

The Selectboard meeting included several administrative actions, such as approving check manifests and several items for signature, including Veterans Credits, Blind Exemptions, and Solar Exemptions, as well as reviewing 22 approved land use permits. Key discussions involved an update on state law changes regarding building on Class VI roads, with the Town Manager tasked to draft a policy regarding road improvements and liability waivers. A public hearing was held concerning the Sunapee Fire Association's donation of a $44,802.02 cardiac monitor to replace an outdated unit, and the Fire Department Association's donation of $6,715.00 for a 15-foot extension to the Safety Services dock to prevent grounding during low water levels. The Board also reviewed the Perkins Pond Watershed Management Plan, focusing on reducing phosphorous loading from development and stormwater runoff. Selectboard actions included approving the 2026 Springfield Transfer Station Agreement, accepting and expending a $195 donation to the Food Pantry, approving the Eversource Temporary Stone Wall Agreement, and engaging Plodzik & Sanderson, P.A. for the annual municipal audit.

This document outlines the proposal for Warrant Article 10, concerning the construction of a solar array at the Sunapee Wastewater Treatment Facility. The primary purpose is to reduce electrical utility costs, mitigate rising energy prices, and establish resilient, locally controlled infrastructure. Key areas addressed include projected energy consumption, solar array generation capacity, construction costs, financing through a low-interest loan with potential forgiveness, and the financial benefits for sewer users without impacting the town's tax rate.

This was a working meeting primarily focused on discussing public education handouts related to warrant articles 5 and 10. Specific attention was given to the Solar Ordinance information pamphlet (warrant article 5) and the WWTF Solar Array information pamphlet (warrant article 10), with minor revisions made to the former. The committee also discussed the dates and venues for holding public information sessions.