Nick F. Rico

The Wells Sanitary District's Climate Adaptation Plan outlines strategies to address the impacts of climate change on its Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) and sewer collection system assets. The plan reviews potential climate change effects specific to the Wells, Maine region, identifies and assesses related threats (such as increased flood risk, precipitation changes, and excessive wind speeds) to the District's wastewater treatment and collection systems, and evaluates potential adaptation measures. Its objective is to provide a cost-effective implementation plan to protect critical infrastructure and maintain system reliability.

The Wells Sanitary District held a public hearing to discuss the proposed new rate restructuring. The public expressed concerns about the fairness of the proposed flat residential rate for low water users and suggested a rate structure based on water use to encourage conservation. The Trustees did not approve the residential flat rate and directed the Rate Team to revise it. The commercial rates, Sewer Capacity Reserve Fee, and the real estate transaction fee were approved.

The public hearing will focus on a proposed new sewer rate structure and an adjustment to the Sewer Capacity Reserve Fee (SCRF). The new rate structure aims to cover expenses, enhance revenue predictability, and ensure the district's financial sustainability. It introduces residential rates based on a flat rate per EDU and commercial rates based on base and usage charges. The SCRF adjustment involves changing the rate and aligning gallons per day (GPD) for dwellings with Maine Subsurface Regulations. A closing transaction fee will be implemented for property transfers.