02/08/2021 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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9 Board of Selectmen-Finance Committee Minutes February 8, 2021 Wastewater Discussions: (continued) Members of the Finance Committee asked about financing opportunities that may provide funding on the Federal level for this project. It was noted that Federal grants generally focus on regional efforts and on plans that are construction ready. It was agreed the lines of communication should remain open to defer costs where possible. With the new administration there is a possibility the Town would receive stimulus funding for construction ready projects. If necessary,the Town would consider amended language if required to maintain eligibility. A joint letter requesting support was considered. Regarding the educational component of the intended wastewater program, members of the Finance Committee offered to provide volunteer support to broadcast the information to the public on MTV on a regular basis in moving forward. With respect to the timeline of receiving information, informing the voters and executing the warrant,there was concern the project may be premature. Plans are conceptual and the Town may be in-equipped in terms of determining cost details. The concept of hiring a communications consultant was favorable to fully inform the residents on the broad level. With the completion of Phase I taxpayers would need to anticipate a future sewer bill that would most likely factor in operational costs. Many homes are on well water,there was a question as to how this would be addressed. It was disclosed that costs associated to 75%design are anticipated to be realized on March 15, 2021. The warrant is scheduled to be executed by the Select Board on March 22, 2021. Town Meeting is scheduled to be held on May 3, 2021. It is fairly known and widely discussed the Town is expected to contract for the operation of the wastewater facility for an estimated cost of$1 to $1.5 million. Some of the functions would fall under the jurisdiction of the Water Department while operational matters would be recognized by the engineer. It was agreed the elements of the media would assist residents in absorbing the information. It was recommended the project be explained decisively to the senior population. It is unclear regarding cost overruns and the responsibility thereof for cost control. Many municipalities employ the services of a Clerk of the Works or an Owners Project Manager. Internally delegated personnel ensure charges being levied are appropriate. The Town advocates the process generally in- house and with an external hire to safeguard the level of service being provided with suitable construction practices. Members of the Finance Committee requested a breakdown of the timeline of deliverables anticipated to be secured by March 15, 2021 and a copy of information that is not included in the proposal outside of the scope of the project. It was noted the Chair of Sewer Commission has issued a timeline articulating target dates, and focus dates for staff information. The schedule is tight, but the Town remains optimistic that all will fall into place.