# sewer-commission — 19 documents, concatenated for reading and search # # This is a CONVENIENCE BUNDLE, not a source. Every document below is # published separately and byte-identically; cite the individual file, # whose path is given in each header, rather than this bundle. # Index of all boards: https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/minutes/INDEX.txt # The town's own scanned original is linked per document. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-08-21-minutes-6718.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-08-21 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-08-21-minutes-6718.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08212024-6718 ======================================================================================== Minutes of 8/21/24 Sewer Commission Special Meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- John Reynolds, Vice-Chair- Brett Ramsden, Clerk- Mike Mackin, , DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Guest: Interim Town Manager- Carter Terenzini John opened the meeting at 6:08 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. CURRENT BUSINESS – Hiring of New Sewer Business Manager Carter stated that they are all disappointed to lose Paula- especially in a short time frame. They advertised the position right away but did not get any applications, but they do have a candidate from another selection process that appears suitable. Bill and Julie (Asst. Town Manager) interviewed that candidate and recommended her to Carter. Going forward, the Commission will be involved in the hiring process in some fashion. The good news is that the candidate may be able to start right away. Paula’s last day will be the 29th but she has agreed to come back to do training at $50/hour. Carter noted that they offered the candidate the job conditioned on reference check, background check and ratification. If the board chooses not to go forward, they will keep advertising it. He discussed temporary stop gaps with Bill but this is the worst recruiting market. Also people are not staying at jobs for long periods of time. John added that he hopes the town is looking at how to maintain staff and it is unfortunate that the new person will come in at the same pay & grade as Paula, who had the qualifications required of the job. Carter said that he knows it needs to be worked on and he will be sitting in on the exit interviews. Mike asked Bill and Carter for their impressions from the interview with the candidate. Bill replied they had a set of questions which were the same used when interviewing Paula. The candidate was very poised and gave good answers. She demonstrated that she has good experience but does not know sewer or Munis. However, she has demonstrated that she can learn new processes, step in and do well. She does not have any municipal experience. Carter noted that there will be a probational period and will have a 1, 3 & 5 month sit-downs. He will also ask the Sewer Commission for their input. He will take action if it does not work out and he wants to fill the Assistant position too. Mike said they will give support to help the candidate to succeed. Carter added that Munis is tough but they will provide support to help them be successful. John suggested Carter go ahead with his mailing to users to seek new commissioners. He will add it to the agenda for discussion at the next meeting. Motion: Mike M. Second: Brett R. To ratify the appointment of Lori Ann McCormick to the position of Sewer Manager. Roll Call Vote: Mike M.-aye, Brett-aye and John- aye. Carter encouraged Mike and Brett to stop by anytime. Brett thanked Carter and said he is glad to have him on board as Interim Town Manager. Motion: Mike M. Second: Brett R. To adjourn at 6:40pm. Roll Call Vote: Mike M.-aye, Brett-aye and John- aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-08-27-agenda-6727.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-08-27 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-08-27-agenda-6727.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08272024-6727 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA August 27, 2024 6:00pm Regular Meeting via Remote Participation (Zoom) In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please usethis link to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83187249940 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 83187249940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. PUBLIC COMMENT 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS 4. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 8/13/24 – Discussion & Vote b. Assistant Business Manager Position - Discussion c. Mailing – Recruitment of Sewer Commission Volunteers – Discussion d. Potential Special Town Meeting Articles – Discussion e. Line Repairs – Mass 1 – Discussion & Possible Vote f. FY25 Budget Adjustments – Discussion and Vote g. Business Manager Report i. Grease Trap Update ii. Review of all Ongoing Projects – Discussion iii. FY24 Budget Overview 5. OLD BUSINESS 6. PUBLIC COMMENT 7. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES September 10, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting October 8, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting September 24, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting October 29, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-08-27-minutes-6727.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-08-27 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-08-27-minutes-6727.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08272024-6727 ======================================================================================== Minutes of 8/27/24 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- John Reynolds, Vice-Chair- Brett Ramsden, Clerk- Mike Mackin, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Business Manager-Paula Bertram, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley John opened the meeting at 6:01pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT- Mike wished Paula the best of luck and said she will be sorely missed. Brett stated he appreciated all the changes she has made and the time she has put in. Bill added that he has enjoyed working with Paula and she has gone above and beyond to make sure he can succeed in keeping the Sewer Dept. running. ANNOUNCEMENTS – none. CURRENT BUSINESS - --Minutes of 8/13/24- Motion: Mike M. Second: Brett R. To adopt the minutes of 8/13/24. Roll call vote: Mike M.-aye, Brett-aye and John-aye. --Assistant Business Manager Position- John reported that they just made an offer to a candidate for Business Manager and she accepted. The Assistant Business Manager job is still posted, but he was a little concerned about having 2 new people start at one time. Bill noted they have a few candidates but will not set up any interviews until they have the new business manager in place and can get her input too. Also if a Commissioner wants to sit in on the interviews, they are welcome. Brett suggested if find a good person for Assistant they may not want to lose them and there could be some advantages in starting together. Paula suggested the new manager should come on board first and get her input as to whether she wants to bring on an assistant or get adjusted first. --Mailing for Recruitment of Sewer Commission Volunteers- Paula said the mailing will be going to all sewer district customers—a total of 751 non-business customers. She will print the letters and mail them. The postage cost will be $500. Brett said it is good coming from the Town Manager’s office. John asked to note in the letter that the Commission can only approve an extension within the Sewer Service Area. Paula added that it will also be put on Facebook. Mike said he would write a letter to the Ledger editor, if authorized. Motion: Brett R. Second: Mike M. To have Mike Mackin write a letter to the Ledger editor about filing Sewer Commission positions. Roll call vote: Brett-aye, Mike M.-aye, and John-aye. Motion: Brett R. Second: Mike M. To approve the Town Manager sending a letter to sewer customers for vacant openings. Discussion: The Commission agreed to not send the letter to those customers in arrears. Roll call vote: Brett-aye, Mike M.-aye, and John-aye. --Potential Special Town Meeting Articles- Paula said that depending on what their situation is when FY24 is closed, they may need to make adjustments if there is a surplus or deficit. She has put together potential generic articles and they need to be summited before the warrant closes. Motion: Mike M. Second: Brett R. To approve the submission of articles to adjust the FY24 budget as needed at the close of the year. Roll call vote: Brett-aye, Mike M.-aye, and John-aye. --Commission Future-Brett asked if they don’t have a quorum, how do they function moving forward? John replied that Mike and Brett will still be Sewer Commissioners and hopefully Bill and the new business manager will keep them updated on what is going on with the sewer. Mike asked whether they will be able to sign documents needed to continue business. Paula replied that without a quorum, they cannot meet. The office can continue business but they will need to get someone before November, so they can sign the billing commitment and to assess Privilege fees. The IFB will be awarded by the procurement officer and Bill but no extensions can be approved. Paula added that there will not be financial commitments to sign until November. John suggested having the Town reach out to a previous Commissioner to serve temporarily until a new Commissioner is found and he will talk to Carter Terenzini. --Line Repairs- Mass 1 –Paula sent out last year’s estimate from CTE for the line repairs. She had budgeted $70K for FY25, but now estimates it will be higher. This repair is for the suction lines at Mass 1 station. The contractor cost is $64,625 and she estimates around $8K for pumping. They will keep one pump going while repairing the other side. Bill estimated the work will take 3-4 days per side, with pumping may be as needed. Motion: Mike M. Second: Brett R. To accept the estimate from CTE, dated 3/5/24 (estimate # 3278) for the repair of the lines at Mass 1 at $64,625 plus an additional up to $8,000 for pumping. Roll call vote: Brett-aye, Mike M.-aye, and John-aye. --FY25 Budget Adjustments- Paula screen-shared the revised FY25 budget and noted that the Betterment income is down $18K from the estimated amount. She decreased the Consulting Services line to $7,300 from $14K and increased the Utilities line item due to the increase from Unitil. She also made some decreases to Legal, Capital expenditures and Engineering. Increases were made to Office Expenses for Postage and Connection Fees. Total expenditures and revenues have gone done but the bottom line stays the same. Motion: Brett R. Second: Mike M. To authorize the line item transfers on the FY25 budget. Discussion: Bill recommends the transfers so they will have the budget correct for the new manager. Paula added that was why she wanted to do this now. Roll call vote: Mike M.-aye, Brett-aye and John-aye. --Business Manager Report – I. Grease Trap Update – Paula drafted all the internal and external grease trap renewals. In regard to non-compliance, the Commission has a $100 fine for non-compliance. Right now Kindred Spirits is non-compliant for missing a couple 1st Tuesday reports. In regard to external pumpings, Wind River is not using our form and their reports are missing measurements on sludge and grease. Other than that everyone is compliant. Paula asked the Commission if they want to impose the fines. She noted that in the past they sent reminders, but she has not been able to do it lately because she was consumed with billing. The Commission discussed this. Motion: Mike M. Second: Brett R. To impose the fine of $100 to Kindred Spirits for non-compliance in FY24. Roll call vote: Brett-aye, Mike M.-aye, and John-aye. ii. Review of all Ongoing Projects- Paula sent the Commissioners a list of things she has been working on and stated that it is imperative that the IFB goes out. Bill said that Carter has talked to Julie and he will do everything he can to get it out. She stressed that they need to develop an Emergency Response Plan. The NPDES permit went into effect 3/1/24 and they need to do an adaptation plan, along with updating the Operation & Maintenance Plan. She noted that they have already budgeted for the repair at Dana St. and that work should go forward. Energy grant: Paula said they were told the Dana St. project could potentially qualify so she emailed the Green Communities Committee to ask them to add this to their grant request. There are also a lot of files to clean up and reorganize. Paula added that she will be coming back to help the new manager get off the ground. John asked where they stand with CTE and Paula replied they have been renewed through to August 2025. Bill asked Julie to send out the extension letter. They can renew the contract up to 3 years without going out to bid. John noted that they should look into state revolving funds for capital funds plans. Paula will note that and added that Wade (CTE) said there are a number of generators approaching their end of life and will need to be replaced. Replacing generators would be an excellent project for state revolving funds. Bill reported that the Verizon line may be fixed. iii. FY24 Budget Overview – Paula stated that the FY24 budget has not closed yet but she believes there may be a surplus because a lot of betterments were paid after homes were sold. PUBLIC COMMENT – Paula thanked John for his service, guidance and willingness to step forward to help. Mike noted that one thing that will be missed is John’s depth of experience, knowledge and history of the Commission. Brett said John will be missed and thanked him for his input and professionalism in handling the Commission. He hopes to get him back when he is able. Bill said it has been a pleasure to work with him and noted how involved he has been –even to come out at midnight to help him chase a spill. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: September 10, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation September 24, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation October 8, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation October 29, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation Motion: Brett R. Second: Mike M. To adjourn at 7:07pm Roll call vote: Brett-aye, Mike M.-aye, and John-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-09-17-agenda-6768.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-09-17 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-09-17-agenda-6768.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09172024-6768 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA September 17, 2024 Bilotta Meeting Room, Town Hall 17 Main Street 7:00pm In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please usethis link to join the public meeting webinar: https://zoom.us/j/9091740347 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 909 174 0347. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. 7:00 PM CALL TO ORDER 2. JOINT MEETING WITH SELECT BOARD RE: 3 VACANCIES a. Joseph Hurley b. Scott Dall c. Tom Indge d. Eli Torres 3. ADJOURN ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-09-17-minutes-6768.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-09-17 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-09-17-minutes-6768.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_09172024-6768 ======================================================================================== Minutes of 9/17/24 Sewer Commission Joint meeting with Board of Selectmen, Town Hall, 17 Main St. Attendees: Sewer Commission: Brett Ramsden (Vice-Chair) and Mike Mackin (Clerk) Board of Selectmen: Caesar Nuzzolo (Chair), Michael-Ray Jeffreys (Vice-Chair), Amanda Moore (Clerk), Tom Alonzo, and Renee Emkey. Also Carter Terenzini (Interim Town Manager) Guests: Joe Hurley, Scott Dall, Eli Torres and Tom Indge Caesar stated that they have 4 applicants for the 3 vacancies on the Sewer Commission and told the applicants that one person will not be chosen but there are openings on other boards. He noted that there are currently only 2 members on the Sewer Commission so they cannot open or close this meeting, but they can participate and vote on the candidates. Caesar called up each candidate to introduce themselves. ---Joe Hurley stated that he is interested in civil engagement and contributing to the town. He works as a regional manager for organic food store chain and is a sewer customer. He feels his management skills would help him contribute to the Commission. Renee asked if he watched any Commission meetings but said no. ---Scott Dall stated that he is new to town but he has always been involved with contributing to the town or city. He was an accountant for 30 years, an office manager and is now in IT. He said they need to be proactive and get ahead of problems. He is on the sewer system and has watched a couple of Commission meetings. ---Eli Torres noted that he has worked as a manager at Home Depot and is now certified in HVAC. He is a people person and believes in working together to help people out. He is a Sewer customer and would like to help the Commission. ---Tom Indge stated that he worked in Law Enforcement and 11 years ago bought in to a franchise of Junk King. He has sponsored local sports teams and Boys & Girls club. He wants to help where help is needed in the Community. Caesar noted there are 2 vacancies that expire in 2025 and 1 in 2026 but Tom Alonzo said that all 3 applicants appointed would need to be on the spring Town Election ballot for mixed terms – 2 for 3 year terms and 1 for 1 year term. Caesar asked if all applicants would be willing to run for reelection and all 4 said yes. Tom Alonzo also noted that the mailing brought 4 applicants where social media wasn’t successful. Caesar read the list of committee vacancies. The Select Board thanked all the candidates and encouraged any person not selected to look at the other openings. Caesar asked the members of the Sewer Commission for their opinion. Mike Mackin and Brett Ramsden recommended Joe Hurley, Scott Dall and Eli Torres for the vacancies. Motion: Michael-Ray Jeffreys Second: Tom Alonzo To appoint Joseph Hurley, Scott Dall and Eli Torres to the Sewer Commission for a term to expire at the annual election of 2025. Discussion: Michael-Ray stated that he liked Tom Indge’s experience and encouraged him to reach out to other committees that have vacancies. Caesar added that he would be a great fit on any committee. The Vote was unanimous to appoint the 3 candidates. Carter (interim Town Manager) said he will reach out to Tom Indge about considering the opening on the Finance Committee. Respectively submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-09-24-agenda-6785.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-09-24 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-09-24-agenda-6785.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09242024-6785 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Septmember 24, 2024 6:00pm Regular Meeting via Remote Participation (Zoom) In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use this link to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83187249940 or from a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 83187249940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. PUBLIC COMMENT 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS 4. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Reorganization of the Commission – Discussion & Vote b. Business Manager Position – Discussion c. Assistant Business Manager Position - Discussion d. Manhole Repair IFB – Discussion e. Update on Special Town Meeting Articles – Discussion f. Line Repairs – Mass 1 – Discussion & Possible Vote g. FY24 Budget Update – Discussion h. Future agenda Items – Discussion 5. OLD BUSINESS 6. PUBLIC COMMENT 7. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES October 8, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting November 12, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting October 29, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting November 26, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-09-24-minutes-6785.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-09-24 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-09-24-minutes-6785.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_09242024-6785 ======================================================================================== Minutes of 9/24/24 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair-Mike Mackin, Vice-Chair- Brett Ramsden, Clerk-Scott Dall, Member Eli Torres, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Absent: Joe Hurley Brett opened the meeting at 6:04pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT- Brett thanked Scott and Eli for being here as newly appointed Sewer Commissioners. ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS – --Reorganization of the Commission- --Chair: Brett nominated Mike Mackin and Scott seconded. Motion: Scott D., Second: Eli T. To vote for Mike M. as new chair for the Commission. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Eli-aye and Brett-aye. Mike M. abstained --Clerk: Brett nominated Scott Dall as Clerk and Mike seconded. Roll Call Vote: Eli-aye, Mike-aye and Brett-aye. Scott abstained --Vice-Chair: Mike nominated Brett as Vice-Chair and Scott seconded. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Eli-aye and Mike-aye. Brett abstained. --Business Manager Position- Bill noted that they had a long time manager named Barb and Paula was hired as Assistant Manager. When Barb retired, Paula took over as Business Manager for 1 ½ years but she recently left. They hired a new business manager, but she only lasted a week and said the job was not for her. Now they are without a Business manager and Bill is carrying the workload. They are actively looking for a new manager. Bill noted that Paula will be coming in Friday to help him go through a stack of to-dos. Bill said the position is very involved, with the biggest issue being the billing, since the software for billing is not user friendly. Before Paula left, she put together a manual of all the processes, but there will be a big learning curve to the job. Mike added that the business manager has a lot of day-to-day tasks around bills, work being done to the system, betterments, etc. Mike suggested looking at the role of the Commission in hiring and discuss it as an agenda item. Bill said that the Interim Town Manager wants to have input from the Commission on hiring. --Assistant Business Manager – Bill reported that they have a bunch of candidates but they want to wait until they hire a Business Manager. --Manhole Repair IFB- Bill stated that the Town was given ARPA federal money and the Commission received $100K. They targeted previously inspected manholes that showed signs of I&I (Inflow & Infiltration) for repair to prevent clean water from getting into the system. Repairs include replacing the frame and covers, repairing the bricks in the chimney and doing a lining to prevent leaks around the pipes. They also will put an inverted hat to catch any water that gets in, which will eventually evaporate. Brett noted that I&I is a major issue with the Commission since they are paying to get rid of clean water that gets into the system. Scott asked how they track if it is working and Mike replied they compare water usage to what flows out. Brett added that rainfall and drought can affect it also. Bill said that it is hard to find where it comes in. They bought a device to put in a manhole to measure any I&I but they are waiting for a replacement because first one stopped working. --Update on Special Town Meeting Articles- Bill noted that the Commission voted at the previous meeting to put in articles. Paula found out that FY24 ended with Revenues exceeding Expenses by about $46K. The article for the Special Town Meeting will be for transferring that money into the Sewer Capital Reserve Stabilization Fund. Bill added that a new vote is not needed. --Line Repairs—Mass 1- Bill said that Mass 1 is one of their biggest stations on Mass Ave. and last year they did a repair on the pipe going into one of the pumps. At that time they saw other pipes that needed repairs and he has 2 job estimates. The first job is to repair the pipe coming out of the well under the station that is pretty rotted and they will need to shut down the station overnight to do the repair. Pumping trucks will be there to catch the flow. CTE (Chad T. Empey) is bringing in Pride Environmental to do most of the work, along with CTE workers. The cost estimate is $66,770 plus $2-3K for the pumping trucks for a total around $70K. Brett added it is a high pressure line and dealing with it if it burst as an emergency would be quite expensive--probably triple the cost. They will give the public a week notice and want to do it before cold weather. Once the Commission approves, Bill will contact CTE to get things going. Commission discussed and agreed it should be done as soon as possible. Brett added that CTE has been reliable and they have done their best to keep the pricing reasonable. Motion: Mike M. Second: Scott D. To approve the estimate dated 9/4/24 from CTE at the cost of $66,770 with additional cost for pumping. Discussion: Scott asked how long the original pipe was in place and Bill replied the pipe has been there for 20 years and the new one will be steel. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Eli-aye, Mike-aye, and Brett-aye. --Suction Lines @ Mass 1 – Second Job - Bill noted that there will be a lot of prep work to get to the lines but will only need 1 pumping truck on site on standby, since they will do 1 line at a time. The cost will be $64,625 and CTE has also hired Pride Environmental to do the repair. It will take 3-4 days per side. Motion: Eli T. Second: Scott D. To move forward with the $64,625 repair of the inlet pipes connected to the pumps at Mass 1. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Eli-aye, Mike-aye, and Brett-aye. --FY24 Budget Update- Bill reported that FY24 ended up with more Revenues than Expenses, due to Betterments and Connection Fees being higher. The rates in Fitchburg and Leominster went up, causing Lunenburg to significantly increase Connection Fees in July. This encouraged people to pay their connection fees in June before the increase in FY25. Bill added that the FY25 budget is looking ok right now and the repairs at Mass 1 were planned for in the budget. Brett also noted that Dana Street station will need repairs. --Future Agenda Items- Bill suggested Sewer Business & Assistant Business Managers positions. Brett suggested an update on Mass 1 repairs, grease traps and delinquencies. Bill stated that they are renewing the grease trap permits now but it should be done in April. They need to get on schedule with the regulations and he suggested they discuss giving a grace period for September to next March. Then they will be back on schedule. Mike asked to discuss having 1 face to face meeting per month. Scott asked how many people will be inconvenienced by the Mass 1 repair. Bill replied there are relatively few homes and the biggest number would be in Meadowwoods trailer park and the primary school. Scott suggested sending a mailing to those affected, but Bill said he was not too concerned due to the low number of homes. Scott suggested having the Chair check on the missing new member. PUBLIC COMMENT – Mike thanked Eli and Scott for stepping up and volunteering. Brett said he hopes they find it interesting- there is a lot to know and he thanked them for volunteering. He added that it is great that they are also customers. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: October 9, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation October 29, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation November 9, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation October 29, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation Motion: Mike M. Second: Eli T. To adjourn at 7:12pm. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Eli-aye, Mike-aye, and Brett-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-10-08-agenda-6807.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-10-08 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-10-08-agenda-6807.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10082024-6807 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA October 8, 2024 6:00pm Regular Meeting via Remote Participation (Zoom) In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use this link to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83187249940 or from a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 83187249940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. PUBLIC COMMENT 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS 4. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Business Manager Position New Hire - Discussion and Possible Vote b. Grease Trap and OWS Permits Renewal Date - Discussion and Possible Vote c. In Person/Hybrid Meetings - Discussion and Possible Vote d. DPW Director Updates i. Assistant to the Business Manager Position – update ii. Line Repairs – Mass 1 – update iii. Manhole Repair IFB – update iv. Update on Special Town Meeting Articles – update e. Future agenda Items – Discussion 5. OLD BUSINESS 6. PUBLIC COMMENT 7. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES October 22, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting November 19, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting November 5, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting December 10, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-10-08-minutes-6807.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-10-08 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-10-08-minutes-6807.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10082024-6807 ======================================================================================== Minutes of 10/08/24 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- Mike Mackin, Vice-Chair- Brett Ramsden, Clerk- Scott Dall, Member - Joe Hurley, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Absent: Eli Torres Mike opened the meeting at 6:09pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT- Mike said he was happy to welcome the new members and he is looking forward to working together going forward. ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS – DPW Director Updates: --Business Manager Position New Hire- Bill reported they interviewed 1 candidate who did well. She has good business experience but does not know sewer or Munis. However she demonstrated that she could learn the processes needed. If they hire her, he will sit down with her at regular intervals to make sure things are working out. They still need to check her references before moving forward and will hold off on ratifying her. Joe said it was a good interview and she showed that she wants to work. His concern was that she may take another job before they meet again. Brett asked if she seemed self-motivated and Bill replied that she is young but has 10 years of work experience. Brett also asked if she got a good view of the job expectations and Bill said she did. Joe added that her problem with her current job is that she is working more hours than she expected without any opportunity to move up or get a raise. Bill noted that she wanted to give 2 weeks’ notice and would not be able to start until November. He suggested holding this over to the next meeting. Bill added that she was the only candidate interviewed and that Paula will help with the billing process as part of training. -- Assistant to the Business Manager Position- Bill reported that they have a couple candidates but he suggested waiting until they hire the Sewer Business Manager. -- Update on Special Town Meeting Articles- Bill stated that the FY24 books are not closed yet and may not close until after the Special Town Meeting. If so, they will make the swap at the Spring Meeting, but it will not have an impact on the budget. --Mass 1 Line Repairs – Bill reported that CTE is trying to get set up within the next couple of weeks. Brett asked if there will be an overlap with the water main work in front of Mass 1 and Bill replied that is what he has to coordinate with the water district. -- Manhole Repair IFB went out 9/25 and the bids are due 10/23. Bill said one bidder had some questions and he hopes all goes well. --Grease Trap and OWS Permits Renewal Date – Bill noted that in February 2023, the Commission voted to require permits for the Oil Water Separators. The first permits were issued in September 2023 and he just renewed the permits for the next year. The regulations state that the permits are effective on April 1st, so Bill proposed that they extend the new current permits until 3/31/26 to put them back on schedule. He confirmed that this would not impact the fiscal budget. Motion: Brett R. Second: Joe To extend the current Oil Water Separator permits to 3/31/26. Discussion: Joe asked to clarify what the permit was for and Bill replied they are businesses who separate oils from the water going into the system such as car washes. Bill noted there are only 6 and they have to send in reports which they are doing so far. Scott questioned if they should do a pro-rated bill and Commission discussed. Bill stated the renewal fee is $150. Roll Call Vote: Brett-aye, Joe-aye, Scott-aye and Mike-aye. --In Person/Hybrid Meetings- Joe suggested that some could meet in person with an option to allow others to join virtually and Mike noted that this became a policy after Covid. Bill said that other boards are doing that now with a Zoom option. Mike suggested having an in-person meeting once a month. Bill noted the DPW conference room can be used for in-person meetings with a Zoom option. Scott suggested having the in-person meeting at 7pm. Brett agreed and suggested having the Zoom meeting at 6pm. Mike proposed holding the 1st meeting in-person/hybrid and 2nd meeting via Zoom. Brett added that the conference room is able to record the meeting. Motion: Scott D. Second: Brett R. To vote on meeting in-person the 1st meeting of the month at 7pm and meet via Zoom at 6pm for the 2nd meeting of the month. Roll Call Vote: Brett-aye, Joe-aye, Scott-aye and Mike-aye. --Future agenda items- Bill suggested keeping the current agenda items on future agendas for updates. Joe asked how they would file to be on the ballot in the Spring and Mike replied the simplest way is to show up at Town Caucus, where you will be nominated for the ballot. PUBLIC COMMENT – Mike thanked Joe and Scott for stepping up to the plate. Brett thanked Mike for being chairman and that he handled the meeting well. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: October 22, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation November 5, 2024 @ 7pm – Regular Meeting, In-Person @ DPW Conference room November 19, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Remote Participation December 10, 2024 @ 7pm – Regular Meeting, In-Person @ DPW Conference room Motion: Scott D. Second: Joe H. To adjourn at 6:55pm. Roll Call Vote: Joe-aye, Brett-aye, Scott-aye and Mike-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-10-22-agenda-6840.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-10-22 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-10-22-agenda-6840.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10222024-6840 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-10-22-agenda-6841.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-10-22 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-10-22-agenda-6841.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10222024-6841 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA October 22, 2024 6:00pm Regular Meeting via Remote Participation (Zoom) In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use this link to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83187249940 or from a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 83187249940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. PUBLIC COMMENT 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS 4. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 7/30/24, 8/21/24, 8/27/24, 9/17/24, and 9/24/24 – Review/Vote b. Line Repairs – Mass 1 – updated cost estimate – discuss and vote c. DPW Director Updates i. Business Manager Position - update ii. Assistant to the Business Manager Position – update iii. Manhole Repair IFB – update iv. Update on Special Town Meeting Articles – update d. Future agenda Items – Discussion 5. OLD BUSINESS 6. PUBLIC COMMENT 7. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES November 5, 2024 7 pm Hybrid Meeting December 10, 2024 7 pm Hybrid Meeting November 19, 2024 6 pm Zoom Meeting December 24, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting??? ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-10-22-agenda-6848.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-10-22 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-10-22-agenda-6848.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10222024-6848 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA (REVISED) October 22, 2024 6:00pm Regular Meeting via Remote Participation (Zoom) In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use this link to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607?omn=86739369626 or from a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 766 316 7607. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. PUBLIC COMMENT 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS 4. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 7/30/24, 8/21/24, 8/27/24, 9/17/24, and 9/24/24 – Review/Vote b. Line Repairs – Mass 1 – updated cost estimate – discuss and vote c. DPW Director Updates i. Business Manager Position - update ii. Assistant to the Business Manager Position – update iii. Manhole Repair IFB – update iv. Update on Special Town Meeting Articles – update d. Future agenda Items – Discussion 5. OLD BUSINESS 6. PUBLIC COMMENT 7. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES November 5, 2024 7 pm Hybrid Meeting December 10, 2024 7 pm Hybrid Meeting November 19, 2024 6 pm Zoom Meeting December 24, 2024 6 pm Regular Meeting??? ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-10-22-minutes-6848.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-10-22 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-10-22-minutes-6848.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10222024-6848 ======================================================================================== Minutes of 10/22/24 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference)/ Attendees:, Vice-Chair- Brett Ramsden, Clerk- Scott Dall, Member: Joe Hurley, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley (joined meeting at 6:20) Absent: Chair- Mike Mackin, Eli Torres Brett opened the meeting at 6:00 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT- Brett thanked Bill for getting the material together and being the temporary Sewer Business Manager- he is doing a great job. CURRENT BUSINESS - --Minutes of 7/30/24, 8/21/24, 8/27/24, and 9/17/24 – Brett asked to hold off voting on these until the next meeting. --Minutes of 9/24/24 – Motion: Scott D. Second: Joe H. To accept the minutes of 9/24/24. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Joe-aye and Brett-aye. --Line Repairs-Bill reported that CTE/Pride Environmental looked at the work and noted 2 Gate Valves, that are needed to shut off the flow, were not working. He asked them for a price for the Gate Valves and also for a silt fence to prevent dirt from entering into the wetlands. The initial price was $66,770 and the revised price is $88,627 (to include Gate Valves and silt fencing). Bill noted the Gate Valves are about 20 years old. Brett asked if every station has these valves and Bill replied the major ones do, including Dana Street which will be the next project. Brett suggested having CTE test the Gate Valves at Dana St. The Commission discussed the revised quote and agreed to exercise the valves occasionally to prolong life. Brett asked about the pumping out of the wet wells. Bill replied the 3 major stations will be pumped every year and smaller stations as needed. Also Robert (CTE) suggested draining/cleaning the wells at Francis St. and West St., which Bill will schedule. He will also add more of the scheduled maintenance tasks when they go out to bid next time so it would be in the contract. Motion: Scott D. Second: Joe H. To accept the additional bid for the Mass 1 repairs. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Joe-aye and Brett-aye. DPW Director Updates --Business manager position and Assistant to the Business Manager Position - Bill reported that they have not been able to obtain references for the candidate they discussed at the last meeting, so that will not work out. He added that Paula Bertram came in last week to help him go through a large pile of paperwork. Also he talked to the Interim Town Manager about giving the DPW Executive Assistant a few hours to enter invoices into the system for payment. Joe suggested looking at hiring for the Assistant position to handle some of the paperwork. Bill agreed and noted that they had some good candidates for the Assistant position. The Commission discussed and agreed to focus on hiring for the Assistant position now. Brett asked about the next quarterly billing and Bill replied Paula will be helping him to get it out at the end of the month. --Manhole Repair IFB- Bill noted the bid is opening tomorrow and he is hoping for some good bids. --Update on Special Town Meeting Articles- Bill reported that FY24 is still not closed and it would be too late to submit articles for the November town meeting. They will add it to the May 2025 Town Meeting. Future agenda items- Updates on hiring Business manager, quarterly billing, line repairs, acceptance of minutes for past meetings. Bill added he has a Change of Use that will need to be voted on at the next meeting. PUBLIC COMMENT – Brett asked for a vote to skip the 12/24/24 meeting. Motion: Joe H. Second: Scott D. To skip the Christmas Eve Meeting on 12/24/24. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Joe-aye and Brett-aye. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: November 5, 2024 @ 7pm – Regular Meeting, In-Person/Hybrid @ DPW Conference room November 19, 2024 @ 6pm – Regular Meeting, Zoom Participation December 10, 2024 @ 7pm – Regular Meeting, In-Person/Hybrid @ DPW Conference room December 24, 2024 – No meeting. Motion: Scott D. Second: Joe H. To adjourn at 6:33pm Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Joe-aye and Brett-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-11-05-agenda-6859.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-11-05 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-11-05-agenda-6859.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11052024-6859 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, November 5, 2024 7:00 PM DPW Conference Room In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in -person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise requi red by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans fo r in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353?omn=83007095516 or from a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. 7:00 PM CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. PUBLIC COMMENT 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS 4. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 7/30/24, 8/21/24, 8/27/24, and 9/17/24 – Review/Vote b. 1335 Massachusetts Avenue Change of Use – discussion and vote c. 165 Massachusetts Avenue Final Invoice Waive Interest – discussion and vote d. DPW Director Updates i. 2nd Quarter Billing – update ii. Business Manager Position - update iii. Assistant to the Business Manager Position – update iv. Manhole Repair IFB – update v. Line Repairs – Mass 1 – updated e. Future agenda Items – Discussion 5. OLD BUSINESS 6. PUBLIC COMMENT 7. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES November 19, 2024 6 pm Zoom Meeting December 24, 2024 6 pm NO Meeting December 10, 2024 7 pm Hybrid Meeting January 14, 2025 7 pm Hybrid Meeting 8. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-11-05-minutes-6859.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-11-05 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-11-05-minutes-6859.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_11052024-6859 ======================================================================================== Minutes of 11/05/24 Sewer Commission meeting– in-person/hybrid (DPW Conference Room) Attendees: Chair- Mike Mackin, Vice-Chair- Brett Ramsden, Clerk- Scott Dall, Member: Joe Hurley, DPW Director- Bill Bernard Absent: Eli Torres and Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Mike opened the meeting at 7:00pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT- Mike thanked Brett for filling in as Chair at the last meeting. ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS - --Minutes of 7/30/24, 8/21/24, 8/27/24, and 9/17/24 Motion: Brett R. Second: Scott D. To accept the minutes of 7/30/24, 8/21/24, 8/27/24, and 9/17/24. Vote was unanimous to approve. -- 1335 Massachusetts Ave. Change of Use – Bill stated that the puppet theater has closed and they are changing it to a retail shop. The state’s environmental code calculates the theater usage at 144 gals/day, based on the number of seats. For a retail shop, it is based on square footage and usage is figured at 50 gals/day, which would be decrease of 94 gals/day in usage. Bill added it will be a gift shop and the Commission discussed. Motion: Joe H. Second: Brett R. To allow the Change in Use for 1335 Massachusetts Avenue. Vote was unanimous to approve. --165 Massachusetts Ave. Final Invoice Waive Interest- Bill stated that the owners were selling the building and requested a final bill for the closing. He calculated the bill but had overlooked the interest amount of $41.80 from past overdue bills. Bill said the Commission could waive the amount of interest. Motion: Brett R. Second: Scott D. To waive the $41.80 in interest for the 165 Mass. Ave. Final Bill. Vote was unanimous to approve. DPW Director Updates: --2nd Quarterly Billing- Bill reported that Paula Bertram was working on the billing while they were meeting and will come in again on Friday. The bills will probably not go out until the end of next week. --Business manager position- Bill said that they reached out to candidates but they did not respond back. They received a new candidate today and he will set up an interview. --Assistant to the Business Manager Position- They have a few candidates and will be doing an interview on Thursday morning. Bill added that they will try to set up other interviews. The Commission discussed the difficulty they are having in hiring for the 2 positions. Mike suggested discussing the job and pay as a future agenda item. Brett asked who would make changes in the pay and Bill said the Personnel Committee, but it has no members right now. --Manhole Repair IFB- Bill noted that they received 2 bids – 1 at $143K and 1 at $169K. His estimate was $114K, with $100K in ARPA funds and they could make up the difference from Capital Funds. They may need to hold off on one of the planned Capital Improvements this year but the Manhole Repair will help. Bill added that the flow amounts to Fitchburg and Leominster have been much lower since they are in drought. Joe asked what Capital Improvement they would have to put off and Bill said he would have to look at what they have left after the Manhole Repairs are done. Brett asked Bill if he had worked with either bidders before and Bill said he has not but the 2 companies -Insituform and National Water Main—are qualified and the bidders for most sewer jobs. --Line Repairs- Bill stated that some set-up prep work has been done and the work will be on Mass. Ave. across from Townsend Harbor Road. He added that there will be no conflict with the Water Main construction but will contact the Water District when he has a firm start date. Future agenda items- Discussion of the difficulties in hiring, the process and pay for Business Manager. Scott suggested the town meeting articles. Bill noted that the Interim Town Manager does a YouTube program called Talk of the Town, which the last one discussed the Town Meeting articles. He urged people to watch it to learn more. Updates on hiring. PUBLIC COMMENT – none UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: November 19, 2024 @ 6pm – Zoom Meeting December 10, 2024 @ 7pm – Hybrid Meeting December 24, 2024 – no meeting January 14, 2025 @ 7pm – Hybrid Meeting Brett asked if there was any update on Eli Torres’ attendance and Mike said he would reach out to talk to him. Motion: Brett R. Second: Joe H. To adjourn at 7:28pm Roll Call Vote: Joe-aye, Scott-aye, Brett-aye and Mike -aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-11-19-agenda-6884.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-11-19 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-11-19-agenda-6884.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11192024-6884 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, November 19, 2024 7:00 PM Regular Meeting via Remote Participation (Zoom) In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use this link to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607?omn=86739369626 or from a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 766 316 7607. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. 7:00 PM CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. PUBLIC COMMENT 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS 4. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 10/08/24, 10/22/24, and 11/05/24 – Review/Vote b. 18 Kirby Avenue Final Invoice Waive Interest – discussion and vote c. DPW Director Updates i. 2nd Quarter Billing – update ii. Business Manager Position - update iii. Assistant to the Business Manager Position – update iv. Manhole Repair IFB – update v. Line Repairs – Mass 1 – updated d. Future agenda Items – Discussion 5. OLD BUSINESS 6. PUBLIC COMMENT 7. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES December 10, 2024 7 pm Hybrid Meeting January 14, 2025 7 pm Hybrid Meeting December 24, 2024 6 pm NO Meeting January 28, 2025 6 pm Zoom Meeting 8. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-11-19-minutes-6884.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-11-19 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-11-19-minutes-6884.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_11192024-6884 ======================================================================================== Minutes of 11/19/24 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- Mike Mackin, Vice-Chair- Brett Ramsden, Member: Joe Hurley, DPW Director- Bill Bernard and Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Absent: Clerk- Scott Dall and Eli Torres Mike opened the meeting at 7:12 pm. and the Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT & ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS - Minutes of 10/8, 10/22, and 11/05 Motion: Brett R. Second: Joe H. To accept the minutes of 10/08/24. Roll Call Vote: Brett-aye, Joe-aye and Mike-aye. Motion: Joe H. Second: Brett R. To accept the minutes of 10/22/24. Roll Call Vote: Brett-aye, Joe-aye and Mike-aye. Motion: Brett R. Second: Joe H. To accept the minutes of 11/05/24. Roll Call Vote: Brett-aye, Joe-aye and Mike-aye. 18 Kirby Avenue Final Invoice Waive Interest- Bill reported that he got a request for a final read and he looked up what the interest should be. However, when Paula pulled up the final bill in the software, it came up with a different number. They discovered that the property was sold twice and the previous owner did not pay their bill. Bill stated the easiest solution would be to waive the interest of $143.31 and he asked the Commission to vote for a waiver. The Commission discussed and agreed to the waiver. Motion: Brett R. Second: Joe H. To waive the final invoice interest for 18 Kirby Avenue left unpaid by the previous owners for the amount of $143.31. Roll Call Vote: Brett-aye, Joe-aye and Mike-aye. DPW Director Updates– i. 2nd Quarter Billing – Bill noted that Paula has been working on the data for the billing and they plan to print the bills on Friday. Jane is scheduled to come in to fold and stuff the bills. ii. Business Manager Position- Bill reported that they interviewed 2 people but neither worked out so they are back to square one. Bill added that the position is listed on Indeed, MAA jobs and the Town Website-they are just not attracting candidates. Joe suggested emailing the candidates to ask why they decided to not take the job. iii. Assistant to the Business Manager Position – They interviewed a woman who was ok, but Bill said it felt strange to hire the Assistant before the Manager. He also wants to interview a couple more candidates. iv. Manhole Repair IFB – Bill reported that the contract has been awarded and they begin work in the Spring. The ARPA funds for the work just needed to be committed in a contract which they are. He will reach out to them for a pre-construction meeting. v. Line Repairs at Mass 1- Bill noted that they want to do the excavation to the pipe next week and do the rest of the work after Thanksgiving. Member Eli Torres absence – Mike suggested sending a letter to ask him to vacate the position so they can appoint someone who can regularly attend. The Commission discussed and Brett stated if he does not respond, they can bring in a candidate at the March caucus for the Town Election. Mike asked if there is anything in the town by-laws stating a certain amount of attendance is required and Bill replied he will look into it. Future Agenda Items – discussion of absent member and options to get a new member. PUBLIC COMMENT – Bill noted that they did not do the attendance roll call at the beginning of the meeting. Mike did the roll call with Brett, Joe, Mike, Bill and Jane present. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: December 10, 2024 @ 7pm – Hybrid Meeting December 24, 2024 – No Meeting January 14, 2025 @ 7pm- Hybrid Meeting January 28, 2025 @ 6 pm- Zoom Meeting Motion: Joe H. Second: Brett R. To adjourn at 7:32pm Roll Call Vote: Brett-aye, Joe-aye and Mike-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-12-10-agenda-6919.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-12-10 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-12-10-agenda-6919.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12102024-6919 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, December 10, 2024 7:00 PM DPW Conference Room In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in -person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise requi red by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans fo r in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353?omn=83007095516 or from a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. 7:00 PM CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. PUBLIC COMMENT 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS 4. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Business Manager Position New Hire – discussion and vote b. Absent Members - discussion c. DPW Director Updates i. 2nd Quarter Billing – update ii. Assistant to the Business Manager Position – update iii. Manhole Repair IFB – update iv. Line Repairs – Mass 1 – updated d. Future agenda Items – Discussion 5. OLD BUSINESS 6. PUBLIC COMMENT 7. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES December 24, 2024 6 pm NO Meeting January 28, 2025 6 pm Zoom Meeting January 14, 2025 7 pm Hybrid Meeting February 11, 2025 7 PM Hybrid Meeting 8. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2024-12-10-minutes-6919.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2024-12-10 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2024-12-10-minutes-6919.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_12102024-6919 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 12-10-24 Sewer Commission meeting – via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- Mike Mackin , Vice-Chair- Brett Ramsden , Clerk- Scott Dall , Member -Joe Hurley , DPW Directo r- Bill Bernard , Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Absent: Eli Torres Mike opened the meeting at 7 :02 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT - ANNOUNCEMENTS – Mike noted that this will be the only meeting for December . CURRENT BUSINESS – -- Business Manager Position New Hire – Bill reported that they interviewed Andrew V alliere twice . Carter (Interim Town Manager) suggested having Andrew come in and observe Paula w orking on the billing. Andrew stayed to observe for 5 hours and also sent follow-up emails. They o ffered him the job and if ratified by the Commission will start January 6th . Brett noted that Andrew knows sewer and customer service. He added that it was pretty positive that he showed up and stayed 5 hours to observe the billing process. Bill s aid he drew up a l ist of competencies /tasks that Andrew should know within a few months. The n ext bill run ; he will need to work with Paula . Mike asked if they should go into Executive Session to discuss personnel issues and Bill replied he would check into that. Brett asked if they contacted previous employers and Bill replied they contacted 2 who gave positive reports. Motion: Brett R. Second: Sc ott D. To hire Andrew Valliere as our new Business Manager for Lunenburg Sewer Commission . Roll Call Vote: Joe-aye, Scott-aye, Brett-aye and Mike-aye. -- Absent Member – Bill reported that there is nothing in the by-laws regarding attendance and Eli has not responde d to email s . Mike suggested amending the by-laws regarding attendance. Brett added that if Eli does not show for the caucus, he will not be on the ballot. -- DPW Director Updates – i. 2 nd Quarter Billing – Bill stated that Paula came in a few nights and they got the bills out. During the process , they found a couple problems and also had to bring in a consultant to help. He added that the Commission need ed to vote to accept the commitment. They also had a lot of calls with questions about the bills. Motion: Scott D. Second: Joe H. To a pprove the 2 nd Quarter commitment for $325,576.84 . Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Joe-aye, Brett-aye and Mike-aye. ii. Assistant to Business Manager- Bill said they will need to reach out to prior candidates . iii. Manhole Work - Bill reported that it went out to bid and they had a low bidder. The contract is in place and he assumes they will come in the spring to do the work. Mike asked where the work will be done and Bill replied that Paula put together a spreadsheet of manholes that I/I was getting into. They will be targeting the worst ones with linings, wall repairs and patching around pipes. iv. Line Repairs – Mass 1 – Bill stated that the work went smooth ly and he will get a price for the same work at Dana St . Station . Scott asked if the town had explored their own treatment system and Bill replied they have but it would be huge money. He added that one of the b iggest challenge would be where the outflow would go. Also the stations are coming close to their ===PAGE 2=== designed life . Joe asked if th ere is any transparency to the rate increases from Fitchburg and Leominste r. Mike replied that they negotiate with both towns and Bill added it is a 25 year agreement but they are still able to raise their rates. P UBLIC C OMMENT – none UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES : December 24 , 202 4 – No Meeting January 1 4 , 202 5 @ 7 pm – Hybrid Meeting January 28 , 2025 @ 6pm – Zoom Meeting Febru ary 1 1 , 2025 @ 7 pm – Hybrid Meeting Motion: Joe H. Second: S cott D. To adjourn at 7:28pm Roll Call Vote : J oe -aye , Scott -aye , Brett -aye & Mike -aye. Respect fully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk