02/04/2021 FINANCE COMMITTEE Minutes

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3 Finance Committee Minutes February 4, 2021 Operational Meeting on Wastewater: It was suggested that Mashpee TV be utilized as a resource to readily share infonnation on a weekly basis to ensure residents are aware of the expense's forthcoming for the benefit of clean waters, a mandate imposed by the Federal Clean Water Act through the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection(MassDEP). Additional sources to publicize the wastewater initiative include the local media,the social media was well as public forums. Several important votes will be requested of Town Meeting to commit to this project. Town Manager Rodney C. Collins outlined matters of importance relative to timeline of requirements to receive grant funding and 0% interest loans for water pollution abatement projects under the Clean Water Act State Revolving Funds (CWSRF). The timeline for grant awards to be considered in 2021 were identified to ensure all aspects of the wastewater plan are moving forward as follows; By June 30, 2021,the Town of Mashpee must approve funding for the project through a Town Meeting vote. Requirements also include Bylaw amendments and a Ballot Question to authorize a debt exclusion for borrowing authorization. The Town is on schedule to meet the June 30, 2021 deadline as cost estimates are expected to be received by March 15, 2020 before the Town Meeting warrant is executed on March 22, 2021 for the May 3, 2021 Town Meeting. Detailed components related to the wastewater plan for both the long and short tern must,also be evaluated in the review process to ensure hidden costs are not overlooked. There are State costs, permits and mandates as well as contractual and operational costs, as well as highly structured terms to comply with loan conditions. Some costs associated to construction may be eligible for funding under the Community Septic Management program. There are additional costs such as but not limited to the grinder pumps, an operational requirement and questions relative to discharge which may require remediation. With regards to public outreach Town Manager Rodney C. Collins indicated that it is extremely important to obtain all of the information to develop a clear and concise plan to communicate to the voters. The strategies to use public forums, public media, and social media will require a comprehensive review of presentations to address the concerns of the residents. The conduit of information should be tailored for the needs of the citizens on issues that would include questions to be clarified such as noise, odor,visual effects and other apprehensions. In terms of communication, a multi-media approach is preferrable for consistency.