Cotuit Fire District

The meeting included a discussion regarding the minutes from the September meeting, which were not approved as they were distributed late. Public comment addressed an open meeting law complaint, leading to a discussion about entering an executive session. The treasurer's report detailed financial status, noting that tax collections were on budget but lower than the prior robust year, and water department usage remained high despite rate increases. The Fire Department was on budget with a slight increase in current year figures compared to last year. COVID grant receipts were noted. Insurance costs increased by 5.9%. The committee also discussed the upcoming tax classification meeting, tentatively scheduled for November 8th, to set the tax rate, preferring a virtual format to maximize public participation. Updates were provided on the streetlights maintenance contract, noting that the contract renewal with Siemens was executed pending the expected business split with Unix, which may result in a favorable variance for medical insurance due to a planned December premium holiday. A new case management program called the Pinnacle Program for ill members and retirees was mentioned. Finally, maintenance issues at Freedom Hall were discussed, including repairing safety gates, a loose bluestone, and a broken window sash cord.

Key discussions during the meeting included the acceptance of the May 2025 minutes, a review of the May 2025 chief's report detailing 113 total responses, including building fires and mutual aid usage, and an update on the 10.78% year-to-date volume increase. Administrative updates covered the preparation for the fiscal year 2026 budget, finalization of the firehouse renovation edition project, and the graduation of two interns. Deputy Clark was recognized for achieving the Chief Fire Officer designation after a six-month credentialing process. Technology efforts focused on updating the dispatch console and Zetron alerting system, which temporarily delayed work on security cameras, though a firewall was installed. Training updates noted a firefighter completed the Officer One training program and another completed the boat operating program, resulting in 10 certified boat operators. A new community initiative involving the union provided free Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) for kayakers and boaters. Old business included vehicle maintenance (tire replacement for unit 262, which is still out of service due to engine failure, and unit 266 returning to service). Under new business, Commissioner Kevin Conway was nominated and elected as the new Chairman. The meeting concluded with condolences offered to Phil regarding the passing of his father, followed by a motion to enter executive session.

The meeting, convened as an ad hoc long term strategy session, focused primarily on the long-term capital improvement plan projections for the next six years, incorporating input from the Prudential, Fire, and Water committees. Key expenditures discussed included the acquisition and potential demolition of the Couture School property, the estimated cost for a new fire station in fiscal year 2026, and the projected cost for a new water filtration plant in fiscal year 2028. Discussions covered potential financing methods, including free cash, five-year and thirty-year bonds, and the potential for a zero-interest loan for the water facility, which could significantly impact water rates. The committee also addressed community interest in alternative uses for the school property, such as a community center, and the associated impact on debt load and tax levy projections. Furthermore, an update was provided on the Couture School acquisition timeline, noting delays related to the town's concerns over indemnification for potential oil tank leaks.

The January meeting commenced with a discussion regarding public comment procedures for the virtual setting. Key agenda items included a follow-up discussion on the Source Water Protection Presentation, specifically concerning the landscaping company adjacent to the blue jeans area. The board discussed the possibility of installing a monitoring well to test for contaminants originating from potential historical dumping, noting previous elevated nitrogen levels in a nearby well. They also began preliminary discussions regarding upcoming budget considerations, focusing on septic system upgrades, with input sought from the Barnesville Clean Water Coalition regarding source remediation strategies, such as retrofits versus full replacements, for failing septic systems. The estimated costs for these solutions were reviewed.

The meeting addressed the aesthetic staining on the West Street tank, concluding that further action is unnecessary unless a structural issue is identified during future sanitary surveys. Water quality reports indicated that August total foam samples were clean, manganese levels remained consistent, and sodium levels at specific sites were noted. Chlorine byproduct testing results were pending. The Board discussed submitting substitution data for upcoming testing requirements. The Superintendent's report detailed a significant drop in August pumpage, one new replacement service installation, and two water main breaks, including a large radial crack and a subsequent linear crack with a visible leak. Discussions also covered the continued drought status, water conservation education efforts, and the implementation of essential food preparation organizations reductions for businesses. Old business involved discussion of irrigation regulation fines and enforcement regarding Commissioner Robinson's proposed revisions, as well as source water protection plans.