03/10/2026 SEWER COMMISSION Minutes

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Town of Mashpee Sewer Commission t 16 Great Neck Road North Mashpee, MA 02649 The temporary flat-rate approach is expected to remain in place for approximately one to two years, likely until Phase 2 of the sewer system becomes operational. At that point, with sufficient consumption data available, the tiered billing structure can be implemented as originally planned. It was clarified that no rate increase is proposed. The billing approach would be retroactive to January 1 of the current year, meaning usage from January through April will be covered under the flat-rate billing, and any usage prior to January 1 will be forgiven. PUBLIC COMMENT Mashpee resident Ken Ursaki, 114 Wheeler Road, addressed the Commission regarding Phase 3 sewer plans, expressing support for sewering Wheeler Road and noting it would benefit local waterways. He raised concerns about Ashumet Pond, explaining that watershed flow moves north to south toward Waquoit Bay, and noted that approximately 75-80 homes on the north side of the pond are not currently included in the sewer plan. He questioned whether wastewater from those homes could be contributing nutrients directly into the pond. Wastewater Superintendent Jared Meader responded that the area has not been permanently excluded but presents logistical challenges. Extending sewer infrastructure would require running pipes through conservation land, much of which is Article 97—protected, requiring multiple levels of state approval. To meet current timelines, the Town prioritized areas where the largest amount of pipe could be installed first, with plans to revisit more complex locations later. He noted a similar approach was used near Santuit Pond, where some sections were postponed for similar reasons. Mr. Ursaki asked whether Falmouth might sewer the western side of the pond, which could provide a closer connection. Mr. Meader explained that Mashpee has intermunicipal agreements with Sandwich, Falmouth, and Barnstable, but those towns are expanding sewer systems from areas farthest from Mashpee toward its borders, placing Mashpee later in their timelines. Regarding Phase 3, Mr. Meader stated that an article has been prepared to begin the design and permitting process, expected to take about one year, followed by construction. He also noted that a new state funding cap of$50 million per year per town for wastewater projects affects scheduling and requires careful coordination of phases. Mr. Meader added that sewer expansion must also account for treatment plant capacity, including the number and size of available tanks, which is why the Town sometimes proceeds with smaller projects when capacity and funding allow. He also noted that recent state legislation allows utilities to traverse conservation land, though the permitting process remains unclear and may involve legal hurdles. Article 97 protections, which apply to some land near Ashumet Pond, are embedded in the state constitution and typically require two-thirds approval of the state legislature if restrictions are altered. The Town hopes to install utilities across the land without removing the conservation restriction, if possible. There were no other public comments to be entertained. Vice Chair Towle closed the Public Hearing and resumed the Sewer Commission's meeting. MOTION: To approve the use of flat rate billing for all customers in sewer service area at the previous established rates, and this will be for Tier One. Motion by: Alfred Towle Seconded by: Joe Lyons