Members Present: Chairman Marshall L. Harris, V. Chairman Stephen C. Lobik
Superintendent: Craig W. Jalbert
Secretary: Dale Barnes-Johnson
Open the Meeting: The meeting was called to order at 6:45 p.m.
Accept the Minutes: A motion was made by Steve and seconded by Marty to accept the Meeting Minutes from June 28, 2006. Motion passed unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS:
Water Capital Bonding ~ Update:
USDA ~ Well Cleaning at Palmer Road amendment was approved, Craig intends to schedule this for the fall (September/October).
State Revolving Fund (S.R.F) ~ Craig met with Don Tata and Karen Pighetti from T&H, and Mike MaGrath regarding the proposed projects for the SRF Loan application which include a new tank and refurbishment of the existing tank. Karen estimates $300 - $350,000 to have existing tank painted inside and out, excluding the enclosure. This procedure is so costly due to insurance, labor costs, and scaffolding, the Commission recalled the accident that occurred 25 years ago. Various scenarios were discussed such as timing of a new tank, benefits of scrapping existing tank and building a new one at the same site, and putting in a new tank while continuing the use of the existing tank (last painted in 87) until DEP says it can no longer be used.
Discussion also took place on the impact of the SRF loan which is a 2% 20 year loan. Additional points are expected to be gained by including the Bethany Road Well to the proposed projects.
Quaboag Heights ~ Update: A model house is under construction. Craig is still obtaining comparison pricing for water main interconnection to Country Club Drive, and clearing of trees.
Hospital Road Reconstruction: Conservation Commission met with regards to the country drainage solution, and awaits a letter from John.
Macomber Road Sewer ~ Update: Tom Moore is almost done with sewer extension.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) ~ Update: Lost by 2 points.
Highway Department: Discussion took place on permit issue and manhole issue, the Commission would like to set up a meeting with John Morrell to talk about further.
MDC Sewer/Grinder: Craig has a ballpark price of $30,000 installed. Maintenance would be to change out cutters every 3 years which would be about $10,-12,000 depending on make up of cutters. A meeting will need to take place with Jane Auther.
NEW BUSINESS:
Sewer Billing Error: The 1st Quarter Sewer portion of Sewer Customers billed by gallon was billed at the incorrect rate. New rates went into effect April 1, 2006, Commercial Sewer Accounts (billed by water usage) increased from $2.74 to $3.08/1000 gal. Unfortunately, the system parameters were not updated accordingly; therefore the bill those customers received was not calculated at the new rate. Dale has identified 12 accounts billed incorrectly totaling $3,674.49 of which $3,043.08 is M.D.C.’s. Additional bills will be generated only for the additional amount due; a letter of explanation will accompany the additional billing.
Delinquent Accounts: It is that time again that this office proceeds with the termination process, having received a list of accounts with FY2006 Outstanding Balances, those accounts will be charged the Service Termination Notice Charge, certified letters will be sent out, and the Board of Health will be made aware of the accounts involved incase there are any health issues that would prevent service from being terminated. Unless all past due water and sewer charges, including penalties are paid in full August 22nd looks to be the shut off date.
The Commission agreed to meet Wednesday, August 16th at 7:30 a.m. to discuss the S.R.F. projects to meet the application deadline.
NEXT MEETING: The next meetings have been set for Wednesday, August 30, 2006.
ADJOURN: Meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
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Stephen C. Lobik, Vice Chairman
cc: Selectmen
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