# sewer-commission — 33 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 : 2026-01-13-agenda-7599.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-01-13 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-01-13-agenda-7599.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01132026-7599 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA January 13th, 2026 7:00PM Regular (Hybrid) 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 Lunenburg Access YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted at the DPW building. 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 12/9/2025 – Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. User Rates FY27– Discussion ii. Sewer Bylaw for tie-ins– Discussion iii. Winter Commission Meeting Times– Discussion/Vote c. Future agenda Items – Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES January 27th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting February 10th, 2026, 7pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting February 24th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting March 10th, 2026, 7pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting REV2026.01.06 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-01-27-agenda-7618.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-01-27 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-01-27-agenda-7618.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01272026-7618 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA January 27th, 2026 6:00PM Meeting via Remote Participation (Zoom) MEETING OF JANUARY 13th WAS CANCELED 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 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 12/9/2025– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. User Rates FY27– Discussion ii. Q3FY26 Billing– Discussion iii. Sewer Bylaw for tie-ins– Brief discussion iv. Winter Commission Meeting Times– Discussion/Vote c. Future agenda Items– Discussion d. Announcements– The Citizens Party Caucus will be March 9, 2026, at the Middle/High School auditorium at 7PM 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES February 10th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting February 24 th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting March 10th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting March 31st, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting REV2026.01.21 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-02-10-agenda-7639.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-02-10 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-02-10-agenda-7639.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02102026-7639 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA February 10th, 2026 7:00PM Meeting via Remote Participation (Zoom) MEETING OF JANUARY 13 and 27th WAS CANCELED 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 public meeting is being conducted at the DPW Office. 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 12/9/2025– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. User Rates FY27– Discussion ii. Annual Report FY25 – Vote to Approve iii. Q3FY26 Billing– Discussion iv. Waterworth- Discussion v. Sewer Bylaw for tie-ins– Brief discussion vi. Winter Commission Meeting Times– Discussion/Vote c. Future agenda Items– Discussion d. Announcements– The Citizens Party Caucus will be March 9, 2026, at the Middle/High School auditorium at 7PM 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES February 24th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting March 10 th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting March 31st, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting April 14th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.02.05 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-02-12-agenda-7648.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-02-12 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-02-12-agenda-7648.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02122026-7648 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Thursday, February 12th, 2026 6:00PM Hybrid Meeting via Remote Participation (Zoom) MEETING OF JANUARY 13 and 27th WAS CANCELED 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 public meeting is being conducted at the DPW Office. 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/2878544906?omn=88175460746 or from a telephone, dial the toll- free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 287 854 4906. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 12/9/2025– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. User Rates FY27– Discussion ii. Annual Report FY25 – Vote to Approve iii. Q3FY26 Billing– Discussion iv. Waterworth- Discussion v. Sewer Bylaw for tie-ins– Brief discussion vi. Winter Commission Meeting Times– Discussion/Vote c. Future agenda Items– Discussion d. Announcements– The Citizens Party Caucus will be March 9, 2026, at the Middle/High School auditorium at 7PM 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES February 24th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting March 10 th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting March 31st, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting April 14th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.02.10 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-02-12-minutes-7648.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-02-12 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-02-12-minutes-7648.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_02122026-7648 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== M inutes of 2/12/26 Sewer Commission meeting - Hybrid In-Pe rson Attendees: Chair- Brett Ramsden , Vice-Chair - Scott Dall , Member : Arthur Katis , DPW Directo r- Bill Bernard , Sewer Business Manager - Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Absent: Dan Proctor Brett opened the meeting at 6 :48 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COM MENT – none ANNOUNCEMENTS : The Citizen Party Caucus will be March 9, 2026, at the Middle/High School auditorium at 7pm . for candidate voting. CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 12/9/2025 Motion: Scott D. Second: Arthur K. To accept the minutes of 12/9/25. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Scott- aye and Brett-aye. --- DPW Director /Sewer Business Manager Updates – - -User Rates FY27- Andrew stated that they have to raise rates this coming year unfortunately . He provided and explained several options to the Commission ers. In July 2024, they r aised the rates 1 6% across the board and looking at FY27, it l ooks like they will need to raise the rates 16% again. Andrew a sked the board if they want to increase the minimum rate 16% or keep it at 5% . Bill noted they did not raise the rates for the current year but Leominster and Fitchburg are charging them more. Also the b etter ment income is declining as they are being paid off which means less money coming in . Bill stated the minimum charge is $133 and suggested not increasing th e charge for those wi th less usage. The Commission discussed the minimum charge a nd will not vote on the rate increase until the budget is finalize d. Bi ll added that Fitchburg will be going up 7 % for 5 years , of which they are in the 2 nd year now and Leominster will be going up 3%. He also pointed out tha t forecasting usage is difficult due to not knowing how much precipitation there will be impacting usage. Bill explained the proposed budget based on past usage and the Commissioners discussed it, noting they need to keep up maintenance of the system . Bill is hopeful to have the budget nailed down for the next meeting so they can look at the numbers. Scott asked about the delinquency rate now and Andrew replied around 20% . The Commission agreed to keep the minimum low to help those on fixed incomes. - -Annual Report FY25- The Commission discussed the draft of the Annual Report prepared by Jane . Bill noted that there have been fewer clog issues since they have reminded users to only flush water and toilet paper down the system. Scott pointed out that they need to present the change of wording in the bylaw at Town Meeting . Motion: Arthur K. Second: Scott D. To accept the Annual Report for FY25. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Arthur- aye, and Brett-aye. - -Q3FY26 Billing- Andrew reported the Q3 billing was m ailed on 2/3 /26. Scott asked if they are able to offer a paperless billing option but Andrew said Munis is not set up to do that. The Commitment amount is $296,299.21. Motion: Scott D. Second: Arthur K. ===PAGE 2=== To accept the Q3FY26 billing of $296,299.21. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Scott- aye and Brett-aye. The Commissioners signed the Commitment. - -Waterworth- Bill explained that a salesman came in to present their cloud program . They would enter all their data along with expenses and the program would com e out with rate options . However the cost for a basic service would be $5 ,000 /year. The advantage would be the program can forecast out future years with various options . Scott pointed out that they need to ask if the $5 K rate saves you more than $5K in salary . The Commission discussed the pros and cons of the program . Bill stated the Lunenburg Water District and the Town of Concord are using Waterworth so they can get information on how it is helping them. A subscription would not be done now but could be discusse d o n a future agenda. - -Sewer Bylaw for tie-ins- The C ommission discussed the wording and Andrew will do up the verbiage for the next meeting. - - Winter Commission Meeting Times- Brett suggested chang ing their in -person meetings from 7pm to 6pm. Motion: Scott D. Second: Arthur K. To change the in - per son meeting time to 6pm. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Scott- aye and Brett-aye. --- Future Agenda Items- adding new commissioners, rate increase, warrant articles, budget , wording for the Bylaw on tie-ins. P UBLIC C OMMENT – Bill suggested that if the public wants to weigh in on their potential rate increase, the next meeting on 2/24 would be a good time to do that. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES : February 24 , 202 6 @ 6 pm – ( Zoom ) Meeting March 10 , 202 6 @ 6 pm – Regular ( Hybrid ) In-person Meeting March 31 , 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting April 1 4 , 2026 @ 6 pm – Regular (Hybrid) In-person Meeting Motion: Scott D. Second: Arthur K. To adjourn at 7:48 pm. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Scott-aye and Brett-aye. Respect fully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-02-24-agenda-7662.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-02-24 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-02-24-agenda-7662.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02242026-7662 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 6:00PM 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 Lunenburg Access 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/83187249940or from a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475- 4499 and enter Webinar ID: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 2/12/2026– Vote to Approve b. Allan (Chip) Wilson – Introduction for Sewer Commission vacancy c. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. User Rates FY27 – Discussion ii. Sewer Budget FY27 – Discussion iii. Delinquency Rate FY26 – Brief discussion iv. Sewer/Stormwater– Discussion d. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES March 10th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting March 31 st, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting April 14th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting April 28th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.02.18 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-02-24-minutes-7662.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-02-24 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-02-24-minutes-7662.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_02242026-7662 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 2/24/26 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- Brett Ramsden, Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Guest: Allan (Chip) Wilson Absent: Arthur Katis Brett opened the meeting at 6:10 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 2/12/26 Motion: Scott D. Second: Dan P. To accept the minutes of 2/12/26. Roll Call Vote: Dan-aye, Scott-aye and Brett-aye. ---Allan (Chip) Wilson was introduced as a potential Commission member. Chip asked for a run-down of typical Sewer Commission business. Brett summarized that the Commission discusses rates, needed repairs to the system, and addresses connections to Leominster and Fitchburg, where the waste goes. They also handle special requests regarding potential connections, budget work, and run it as a business, putting their customers first. Scott noted Chip has experience in the industry, similar to Dan. He added that they look out for not only the users, but for the town. They have guidance from Bill and Andrew, along with the Town Counsel. Bill stated it is a 5-person board, with 3 as a quorum, but have only 4 now. Chip noted he was looking to get involved with something and since he has experience in water and sewer, he felt this would be a good fit. Dan added that he is still learning about the issues concerning the Sewer system and often asks Bill and Andrew questions. Chip stated he is willing to join the board. Bill noted he would set up a short joint meeting with the Select Board for an interview and a vote to appoint Chip. ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– --User Rates FY27/ Sewer Budget FY27 – Bill and Andrew put together a budget for the next year, based on averages from the last 3 years. They put in $200K for the Capital Plan for a few big repairs. They originally estimated Revenues at $1.2 million but when they did all the calculations, there would be a deficit of about $200,000. The balance in Retained earnings has been going down, and betterment income is lower, due to so many being paid off. To avoid taking any money out of Retained Earnings, they would need to do a rate increase to balance the budget. Andrew ran several scenarios and they are suggesting a small increase on the minimum charge from $133 to $139. The regular users would have a 16% increase - $15.85 to $18.38 – which would give a surplus of $26K. Dan asked where the income from tie-ins go in the budget and Andrew replied into Retained Earnings, with I&I fees. Scott pointed out that income will increase if a lot of ADUs connect. Bill stated that the sewer budget is independent from the town budget and is a self-funding enterprise fund. He added that they need to pay for any services from the town, such as paying bills. Bill noted they will be presenting the budget to the Finance Committee on 3/12 and the Commission will need to vote to accept it prior to that date. Scott suggested doing the vote since all agreed with the numbers, along with the rate increase. Bill noted that Fitchburg and Leominster have gone up on their rates, so the Commission needs to go up in order to keep even. Motion: Scott D. Second: Dan P. To accept the budget proposal for FY27. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Dan-aye and Brett-aye. --Delinquency Rate FY26 - Andrew explained the figures on the delinquency rate form, noting that the rate is not as bad as last year. Dan asked if anyone complains about the Munis online bill paying system and Andrew replied he has needed to help some customers with navigating the system. Scott suggested the easiest way is to create an account and click the link from the drop-down to “pay my bill,” –rather than paying as a guest. --Sewer/Stormwater-- Bill reported the Stormwater Task Force has been working to establish a Stormwater Utility. To cover overhead, single family dwellings would be charged $100/year and businesses will have a higher rate. The Stormwater Utility would need to hire someone to do the billing but Bill suggested having Andrew do the once per ===PAGE 2=== year bills. Stormwater would pay a portion of his salary with a grade increase, which would help Sewer. Bill pointed out Stormwater is separate from the Sewer system—it is the drainage system in town. EPA issues the town a MS4 permit which allows them to discharge into lakes and streams. Bill noted this money would set up a dedicated fund for addressing stormwater issues. Right now, the permit states they need to sweep all the roads twice/year and clean the catch basins annually. Future permits will require adding rain gardens, infiltration trenches and retention ponds on town properties. Bill noted there will be on the ballot for the May Town Meeting to just set up the Stormwater Utility. There will be a public information Zoom meeting on March 5th which will be recorded. Dan pointed out that home owners will pay about $100 but the bigger issue will be for commercial business owners that will pay a lot . He added that businesses built in the last 29 years have already paid to install stormwater systems to town and state specs. Bill noted eventually there will be credits issued for those with stormwater BMP’s in place. The Select Board suggested having a joint Sewer & Stormwater Commission and the Commissioners agreed. ---Other discussions: Brett asked Chip what he thought about the meeting and he replied it was pretty much what he expected. Brett asked about the Sewer Connection Charge Policy draft that Andrew sent out. Andrew said they could not discuss it as it was not on the agenda but asked the Commissioners to let him know if they have any edits. Then they will discuss the policy at the meeting on 3/10. He will need to submit by the policy article by 3/14 for the Town Meeting. ---Future Agenda Items- Sewer/Stormwater discussion, Sewer Connection Charge Policy, the Stormwater fee billing PUBLIC COMMENT – none UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: March 10, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting @DPW March 31, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting April 14, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting @DPW April 28, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting Motion: Scott D. Second: Dan P. To adjourn at 7:10pm. Roll Call Vote: Dan-aye, Scott-aye and Brett-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-03-agenda-7678.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-03-03 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-03-03-agenda-7678.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03032026-7678 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION & SELECT BOARD JOINT MEETING Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 7:05PM Regular (Hybrid) 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 Lunenburg Access YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted at Town Hall 17 Main Street Lunenburg, MA. 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://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 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. I. 7:05 PM CALL TO ORDER II. 7:05 PM Joint meeting of Sewer Commission & Select Board – Appointments to fill the Sewer Commission Vacancies. III. Adjournment SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-03-minutes-7678.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-03-03 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-03-03-minutes-7678.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03032026-7678 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 03/03/26 Sewer Commission Joint meeting with Board of Selectmen, via Zoom. Attendees: Sewer Commission: Brett Ramsden (Chair), Scott Dall (Vice-Chair), Dan Proctor (Clerk), and Arthur Katis (Member). Board of Selectmen: Amanda Moore (Chair), Renee Emkey (Clerk), Members – Brian Lehtinen and Glenn McLeod, and Jennifer Warren-Dyment (Town Manager) Guest: Allan (Chip) Wilson (candidate for Sewer Commission) Brett Ramsden called the Sewer Commission meeting to order at 7:32 pm. and did a roll call of members present. Chair Amanda Moore asked Allan to tell a little about himself and why he was interested in this position. Allan stated he responded to a post for new Commissioners and said he wanted to do a little more for the town as a volunteer. He added that sewer was a good fit for him. Amanda asked Brett if the Commission had talked about his request and he replied that Allan attended their last meeting. They discussed the duties of the Commission and found that Allan has a construction business which deals with sewer installation in Lunenburg and other towns. The Commission asked Allan to join them and he agreed to. Renee Emkey asked about the length of the term and the Town Manager replied it would be until the Town Election. Renee asked Allan if he was willing to run for a term after that and he responded he would. The Town Manager suggested that Allan could attend the Town Caucus on 3/9 and be added to the Town Election ballot. The Select Board Chair asked for a motion. Motion: Renee Emkey Second: Brian Lehtinen To appoint Allan Wilson to the Sewer Commission for a term to expire on May 16, 2026. Roll Call Vote: Mr. McCloud-aye, Mr. Lehtinen-aye, Miss Emkey-aye and Ms. Moore-aye. The Sewer Commission Chair asked for a motion. Motion: Scott Dall Second: Dan Proctor To accept Allan Wilson as a new Commissioner. Roll Call Vote: Dan Proctor-aye, Scott Dall-aye, Arthur Katis-aye and Brett Ramsden-aye. The Chair declared that the motion passed and thanked Allan. Brett asked for a motion to close the meeting. Motion: Scott Dall Second: Dan Proctor To end the Sewer Commission meeting at 7:39 pm. Roll Call Vote: Scott Dall-aye, Arthur Katis-aye, Dan Proctor-aye, and Brett Ramsden-aye. Respectively submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-10-agenda-7694.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-03-10 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-03-10-agenda-7694.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03102026-7694 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, March 10th, 2026 6:00PM Regular Hybrid 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 Lunenburg Access YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted at the DPW office. 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 2/24/2026 and Minutes of 3/3/2026 Joint Select Board Meeting – Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. User Rates FY27 – Discussion ii. Town Meeting FY27 Budget Presentation– Discussion iii. Town Warrant Article Waivers bylaw wording– Discussion iv. Sewer/Stormwater– Brief discussion c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES March 31st, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting April 14 th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting April 28th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting May 12th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.03.05 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-10-minutes-7694.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-03-10 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-03-10-minutes-7694.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03102026-7694 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 3/10/26 Sewer Commission meeting– Hybrid in-person and Zoom Attendees: Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Members: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Absent: Chair- Brett Ramsden Scott D. opened the meeting at 6:06 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT: Ian Brennen noted he is a builder and a friend of the family is potentially looking to sell the driving range near Whalom and build duplexes. He handed out information on the project and said they are asking about running sewer up Pond Street. They could connect Lots 1, 2 & 3 perpendicularly into sewer, but one small section would need to be considered under future expansion of the Sewer Service Area (SSA). Bill stated they would need to put in a warrant at a Town Meeting to add it to the SSA. Ian noted the sewer is at the circle and could be run to the 3 duplexes. Scott asked if there were plans for future expansion. Ian replied there could be 3 or 4 ANRs on Carr Ave. but he is just looking at the 3 on Pond St. He is open to feedback on the plan from the Commission. Bill noted that if Ian wants this to happen soon, he will need to get the warrant article to the Town Manager by 3/16 to get it on the May 2nd Town Meeting. Bill added he should schedule to come back for the March 31st meeting so they can vote on it. They are not able to vote at this meeting because it was not on the agenda. CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 2/24/26 and 3/3/26 Joint Select Board Meeting Motion: Dan P. Second: Arthur K To accept the minutes of the 2/24/26 Meeting and the 3/3/26 Joint Select Board Meeting. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Dan-aye, Chip-aye and Scott-aye. ANNOUNCEMENTS- The Demand fees will be mailed out the week of March 16th. If anyone has not paid their sewer bill, please send in payment by Friday and they can also pay online. ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– --User Rates FY27-Andrew stated the new rate will be increasing 16% to $18.38/cubic feet and the minimum charge will increase by 5% to $139. Scott noted they are held to how much Fitchburg & Leominster charges Lunenburg to discharge. --Town Meeting FY27 Budget Presentation- Bill will do the budget presentation 3/12/26 at 7pm. to FinCom. Scott told Chip that they voted to accept the FY27 budget proposal at last meeting. Bill reported they will not be using any Retained Earnings this year, as they had in recent years. Scott noted that receipts next year will be lower because betterments are being paid off. Andrew reported that nothing is dramatically changed from last year. Dan asked if they have figures for how much customers are billed for flows vs how much they are being billed from Fitchburg and Leominster. He noted that there could be leaky pipes and cracks causing groundwater to enter the system that is not billed to a customer. Bill clarified that the manhole repair project will be targeting the manholes suspected of having I/I (Inflow/Infiltration). In 2014, there was a report of lines that were looked at with a camera to look for leaks. Flow Assessment also does a calibration twice a year on the meters for Fitchburg and Leominster, to insure they are accurate. Bill added they can put the wireless unit in manholes where they suspect I/I to get data. Scott stated the Budget presentation recording will be on the town’s YouTube channel. --Town Warrant Article Waivers bylaw wording – Bill reported the Town Manager reviewed and tweaked the wording. Scott added the Town Counsel reworded it so the sewer bylaw would have consistent language with the new ADUs. It will be voted on at the Town Meeting. --Sewer/Stormwater- Bill reported they can combine Sewer and Stormwater but will need to get approval from the state first. The bylaw to be voted on at Town Meeting is to establish the Stormwater Utility and will state that the Select Board will oversee it. The combined Commission would need approval at a future Town Meeting after the state approves. Bill clarified that there is a Federal mandate clean up water before it goes into streams or they could be fined. They have been talking about the Stormwater Task Force for 10 years and are close to setting it up now. ===PAGE 2=== Residents will pay a Stormwater fee which will be used to pay for street sweeping twice a year and cleaning out drains, in order to be in compliance. ---Future Agenda Items- Ian’s presentation, FY27 Budget, Town Warrant, Manhole contract work. PUBLIC COMMENT – Scott saw an article about the Fitchburg mayor looking at bringing the old sewer plant back online. Bill said they have not been contacted yet. Dan asked if there is still capacity for flow to Fitchburg and Andrew replied they still have some available. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: March 31, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting April 14, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting April 28, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting May 12, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting Motion: Dan P. Second: Arthur K. To adjourn at 6:49pm. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Dan-aye, Arthur-aye and Scott-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-31-agenda-7744.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-03-31 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-03-31-agenda-7744.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03312026-7744 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 6:00PM REMOTE (ZOOM) Meeting 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 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 03/10/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. Manhole Repair IFB – Update ii. Q3 FY26 Demands – Update iii. FY27 Budget – Continued Discussion iv. Sewer/Stormwater – Update c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES April 14th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting April 28 th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting May 12th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting May 26th, 2026, 6 pm (Zoom) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.03.26 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-31-minutes-7744.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-03-31 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-03-31-minutes-7744.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03312026-7744 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 3/31/26 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- Brett Ramsden, Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Brett opened the meeting at 6:02 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT- Brett apologized for missing Chip’s first official meeting and the Commission is glad to have him onboard. They look forward to his future input on their decisions. CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 03/10/26 Motion: Scott D. Second: Dan P. To accept the minutes of the 3/10/26 meeting. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Arthur-aye, Dan-aye and Chip-aye. (Brett abstained.) ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– --Manhole Repair IFB- Bill reported that the contractor came in and inspected the remaining manholes to be done. They came up with a work list and have asked if they can get going, but the nighttime temperatures are too cold. With the weather changing this week, he will give them the go ahead to finish the contract. Bill noted the contractor is Insituform Technologies and there are 10-15 manholes left to do. They will do special liners, fill active cracks, block bigger holes and go around pipes. The goal is to slow down the I/I (Inflow/Infiltration) problem. Also there are about 15 manholes that will have frames and covers replaced. Dan noted that he was doing a job on Laurel Lane a couple of weeks ago and Bill asked him to help locate a certain pump line. At the end of Laurel Lane, there is a manhole with three 1.25” pump lines coming in. One line, which was discontinued years ago, was flowing about a half a pipeful of water infiltration. He suggested that March is a good time to pop manholes to look for issues like this, especially in known wet areas. Dan said they were able to slow the flow but not completely seal it. Bill will have Insituform seal it also. He reported that Robert Lilly (CTE Contractor) noted after they did drainage work and paved Francis St. and Stevens St., the I/I issue at the Francis St. Station had slowed down. In addition, Robert stated he will be leaving CTE to concentrate on his own business. The new CTE contractor will be Al Packard, Jr. (Albe), who knows our system and has the same expertise as Robert. Brett questioned how they could find problems in the manholes, such as Dan found on Laurel Lane. Bill replied that the Commission had studies done in the past and the Insituform contract is targeting the worst manholes with I/I issues. They could go back to review other manholes in the studies but cannot do it this fiscal year. --Q3 FY26 Demands – Andrew reported the demands were sent out 3/16 and people are starting to pay them. The delinquency rate is now around 18%. --Fy27 Budget – Bill noted the Commission has already voted to approve the budget and the Town Manager had a couple questions about the rate increase, which the Commission also approved. The FY27 Budget will be presented at Town Meeting. --Sewer/Stormwater- Bill reported they cannot easily combine the Stormwater and the Sewer Commission, without an act of the State Legislature. The Stormwater Task Force Committee voted to pull their article from the Town Meeting, which would have established the Stormwater Utility. It is a closed subject for now. ---Future Agenda Items- PUBLIC COMMENT – Dan inquired about the proposed project on Pond St. Andrew reported that he talked to Ian, who said it was a short timeframe to get plans put together and it is up to the owner on proceeding. Dan noted he talked to an engineer who said there are municipalities that require developers to find and fix water problems if they are looking to add properties to the sewer system. Based on the flow they want to add, they would have to find leaky pipes to repair at their own expense. Chip agreed that developers are being forced to make improvements to sewer systems and drainage. They could use the studies to find issues for the developers to repair. Bill stated the special ===PAGE 2=== liners run about $3K per manhole. They also have a regulation that a development that is adding to the system would need to eliminate I/I or pay a fee to the I/I account. Brett asked about using precast for future manholes and Bill replied that everything is precast now. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: April 14, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting April 28, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting May 12, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting May 26, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting Motion: Scott D. Second: Dan P. To adjourn at 6:30pm. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Dan-aye, Scott-aye, Arthur-aye, and Brett-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-04-14-agenda-7762.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-04-14 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-04-14-agenda-7762.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04142026-7762 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, April 14th, 2026 6:00PM Regular Hybrid Meeting DPW Office | 520 Chase Road | Lunenburg, MA 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 public meeting is being conducted at the DPW office. 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 03/31/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. Manhole Repair IFB – Update ii. 100 Laurel Lane– Discussion iii. 77 Electric Ave– Brief Discussion c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES April 28th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting May 12 th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting May 26th, 2026, 6 pm (Zoom) Meeting June 9th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.04.09 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-04-14-minutes-7762.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-04-14 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-04-14-minutes-7762.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04142026-7762 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 4/14/26 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- Brett Ramsden, Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Brett opened the meeting at 6:07 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 03/31/26 Motion – Dan P. Second: Arthur K. To accept the minutes of 3/31/26. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Arthur-aye, Dan-aye and Brett-aye. ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– -- Manhole Repair IFB – Bill reported Insituform sent a list of manholes they will be repairing and the list of work. He approved the list and added the manhole at 100 Laurel Lane. The contractor wanted to get going but the nighttime temperatures have been below freezing. Bill told them they could start this week but he has not heard back from them. -- 100 Laurel Lane – Dan confirmed that he saw 3 pressure lines coming out. Bill noted they have been there a couple of times and had camered the 6” line coming out. The line goes out about 40’, teeing in at 88 and stops just short of property line. Bill said they have only seen 1 or 2 lines. Dan replied there are 3 but one he plugged. Bill went out with the As-built which shows the shut off right in front of the house at 100 Laurel Lane, 16.5’ from the telephone pole on the right side of the road. However, in the field, the telephone pole is on the left side of the road. They dug about 16’ from the pole but did not find it, so they need to investigate more. The owner was there in the early 2000s when they brought sewer in but swears they did not bring any lines to his house. However, Bill has the As-built for 100 and the As-built for 96 with 100 on it. Dan showed a picture of the 2 open lines and noted the 3rd he plugged. The manhole is very shallow because they were running out of grade. (Scott joined the meeting.) Bill added that the owner of 100 wants to convert the garage into an ADU. The house will have to be pressure lined but they want to go gravity feed out of the garage. They will need to go from the garage to the stub on their own, which is about 70’. Scott questioned why the ADU would not be connecting through the house but Bill replied no work has been done there yet. They will need to locate the end with a metal detector. Chip asked if they put in an E1 system, can they go from the garage to the E1 and Bill replied probably not since it is all ledge. They also do not want to put in 2 E1s. Dan noted the ledge broke up easily when he did a hook-up 2 houses down. Bill stated if the pressure line is not there, they will own him a stub. -- 77 Electric Ave.- Bill reported another developer came in who wants to build houses on 14 acres which are not in the Sewer Service Area (SSA). He told the developer that he would need to go through Town Meeting first and he was shocked. Only the first 100’ is in the SSA but he doesn’t want to put the houses there. The Commission discussed the process for expansion. Bill noted that the developer was just inquiring right now. Dan added that piece of land may have been left out of the SSA by previous Commissions to prevent building a lot of houses on the large property. Arthur asked if they are more open to developments now and Dan replied if they can use these developments to help correct the I/I problem, he is for it. Bill stated the driving range developer has not returned. ---Future Agenda Items- TM budget presentation PUBLIC COMMENT – none UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: April 28, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting May 12, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting ===PAGE 2=== May 26, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting June 9, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting Motion: Dan P. Second: Scott D. To adjourn at 6:32 pm. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Arthur-aye, Chip-aye, Dan-aye, and Brett-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-04-28-agenda-7783.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-04-28 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-04-28-agenda-7783.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04282026-7783 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, April 28th, 2026 6:00PM ZOOM Meeting REMOTE 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 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 04/14/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. Manhole Repair IFB – Update ii. 5 Ramgren Road- Discussion iii. Rate Increase presentation for Town Meeting– Review iv. 100 Laurel Lane– Brief Discussion c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES May 12th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting May 26th, 2026, 6 pm (Zoom) Meeting June 9th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting June 30th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.04.22 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-04-28-minutes-7783.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-04-28 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-04-28-minutes-7783.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04282026-7783 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 4/28/26 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Absent: Chair- Brett Ramsden and DPW Director- Bill Bernard Scott opened the meeting at 6:06 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS – none CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 4/14/26 Motion: Dan P. Second: Arthur K. To accept the minutes of 4/14/26. Roll Call Vote: Dan-aye, Arthur-aye, Chip-aye and Scott-aye. ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– --Manhole Repair IFB- Andrew reported that Insituform emailed that they are currently working on other jobs. He is hoping they can start later this week or next week. Andrew will keep everyone updated. -- 5 Ramgren Road – Andrew stated this project went out to bid and they had several responses. Bob Proctor had the lowest bid of $4,800, with work starting next week if all goes well. They will be going from the manhole to the property line. --Rate Increase presentation for Town Meeting- Andrew screen-shared Bill Bernard’s slide presentation for the Sewer Enterprise’s Article 19 at Town Meeting. He noted that Betterments are shrinking (income) and they will not be using Retained Earnings to balance the budget this year . The majority of income comes from User Charges and pointed out Leominster and Fitchburg rates are going up. This necessitates a User Rate Increase of 16% but only 5% increase on the minimum charge. Andrew noted the delinquency rate is under 20% currently. Dan asked about the I/I fees collected, and Andrew replied that they are very minimum on the SRF projects. Scott further asked if there will be any cuts with the overrides and Andrew said the Sewer is self-funded so it is not effected by the Town Budget. --100 Laurel Lane – Andrew reported they have a tie-card for the property but they are still trying to find the sewer stub. They did a video inspection but it did not go anywhere. Dan noted it is a pressure line and they will try digging to find the shut-off. Andrew added if they cannot find it, they will owe the homeowner a sewer stub. ---Future Agenda Items- 100 Laurel Lane, Manhole Repair, Q4 Commitment, Town Meeting feedback and discussion. ---Old Business – Scott asked Andrew if he had an update on the project at the old funeral home on Mass. Ave. and Andrew replied he has not seen any updated plans. He also has no update on the potential project at the Driving Range. Andrew reported that there is a buyer for 3 Rennie Street that wants to fix up the property and connect to sewer. PUBLIC COMMENT – none UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: May 12, 2026 @ 6 pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting May 26, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting June 9, 2026 @ 6 pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting June 30, 2026 @ 6 pm – (Zoom) Meeting ===PAGE 2=== Motion: Arthur K. Second: Dan P. To adjourn at 6:35pm. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Dan-aye, Chip-aye and Scott-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-05-12-agenda-7803.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-05-12 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-05-12-agenda-7803.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05122026-7803 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, May 12th, 2026 6:00PM Regular (Hybrid) Meeting DPW – 520 Chase Road 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 public meeting is being conducted at the DPW office. 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 04/28/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. Manhole Repair IFB – Update ii. 314 Whalom Road– Discussion iii. Q4FY26 Commitment– Review/Vote iv. Wright-Pierce private sewer ways – Discussion v. 100 Laurel Lane– Brief Discussion c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES May 26th, 2026, 6 pm (Zoom) Meeting June 9th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting June 30th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting July 14th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.05.06 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-05-12-minutes-7803.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-05-12 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-05-12-minutes-7803.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05122026-7803 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 5/12/26 Sewer Commission meeting– Regular (Hybrid) Meeting at DPW building. Attendees: Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Absent: Chair- Brett Ramsden Scott opened the meeting at 6:11 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 4/28/26 Motion: Dan P. Second: Chip W. To accept the minutes of 4/28/26. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Dan-aye and Scott-aye. ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– ---Manhole Repair IFB-Andrew emailed the contractor after the last meeting and they replied they would come back with dates but he has not heard back. He will email them again. Bill added they said they would put it on their schedule but it has not happened yet. (Arthur joined the meeting.) ---314 Whalom Road- Andrew reported they did a video inspection of the line last Friday and found the lateral. There is a tee but they are missing the tie card for the property. A Drain Layer is working on getting them connected to sewer because the septic has failed. Bill noted there are sections of Whalom Rd without a main and this property is in one of the skipped areas. They found a hand-drawn sketch with 2 versions of the lateral – one sketch shows the lateral going from Otis crossing Whalom to his house but the second sketch shows the lateral stopping in the middle of Whalom. Bill screen-shared the 2 sketches and added that the house was also labeled as Wallis Park. The drain layer will dig it up to locate the lateral. ---Q4FY26 Commitment- Andrew reported the Commitment was $304,465.51 and the Commissioners will sign it. Motion: Dan P. Second: Chip W. To accept the Q4FY26 Commitment. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Dan-aye, Chip-aye and Scott-aye. ---Wright-Pierce private sewer ways – Bill reported the DEP wanted information about adaptation plans for flooding. Wright-Pierce wrote it all up and they submitted it but DEP came back asking for plans and other documentation for private sewer systems. Bill stated these are systems at apartment/condo complexes that are on private property but connected to town sewer. DEP gave them 180 days to find all the plans and maintenance procedures. They will check for plans at the Passios storage and ask the building department. Arthur suggested asking the builders for plans and Scott said to keep it on the agenda for the next meeting. ---100 Laurel Lane - Bill went out with a metal detector and the questionable As-Built. He hit on a lot of nails but could not find it. Bill said he could rent a Sonde to try tracking the line. However, he got a call from the project’s Drain Layer who said he could continue the 6” line from the manhole to the house for $4,500. The house will have to be a pressure line, but the garage ADU will be gravity feed. ---Future Agenda Items- Manhole Repair, 314 Whalom Road, DEP request, 100 Laurel Lane OLD Business – Bill reported he did not need to do the budget presentation at Town Meeting since it was part of the consent calendar. The last article of the warrant was for the wording change to the sewer by-law. An attorney stood up stating they should keep the word “emergency” but Dan came forward to say the Town Attorney said the change was fine. The Article passed with flying colors. PUBLIC COMMENT – Bill reported they had a call about a clog at a house on Leominster Road. The clog was in the yard, caused by wipes and the owners had to dig it up in order to clear the pipes. ---The Commissioners agreed to keep all meetings at 6 pm. ===PAGE 2=== UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: May 26, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting June 9, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting June 30, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting July 14, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting Motion: Dan P. Second: Chip W. To adjourn at 6:45pm. Roll Call Vote: Dan-aye, Arthur-aye, Chip-aye and Scott-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-05-26-agenda-7827.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-05-26 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-05-26-agenda-7827.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05262026-7827 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, May 26th, 2026 6:00PM (Zoom) Meeting REMOTE (Revised) 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 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 05/12/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. Manhole Repair IFB – Update ii. 48 West Street Change of Use– Review/Vote iii. 37 Wallis Park Account Final Read/Write off– Vote iv. 99 Leominster Rd waiver request– Vote v. 100 Laurel Lane– Brief Discussion vi. 990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use- Vote vii. Wright-Pierce private sewer ways- Continued discussion c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES June 9th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting June 30th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting July 14th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting July 28th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.05.21 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-05-26-minutes-7827.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-05-26 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-05-26-minutes-7827.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05262026-7827 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 5/26/26 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees:, Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Absent: Chair- Brett Ramsden Dan opened the meeting at 6:10 pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 5/12/26 Motion: Scott D. Second: Chip W. To accept the minutes of 5/12/26. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Arthur-aye, Scott-aye, and Dan-aye. ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– --Manhole Repair IFB- Andrew got an email from Zach who said they have one job to do and then they will focus on Lunenburg. He anticipates hearing back after 6/3. Bill added that Tango who is the sub-contractor doing the manhole covers, had been pushed out a week, but will be coming in shortly. Everything should be wrapped up by June 30th, as they have only about a week of work to do. --48 West Street Change of Use - (Dan will abstain from voting.) – Bill stated the applicant, Michael Branchflower, was online for the meeting. They are rehabbing a house and adding a bedroom. Bill read the Sewer Bylaw pertaining to Change of Use and noted the request meets all the criteria. He added that the Privilege Fees were paid many years ago and nothing will be done outside the house. Motion: Dan P. Second: Chip W. To accept the Change of Use at 48 West Street. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Arthur-aye, and Scott-aye. (Dan abstained) --37 Wallis Park Account Final Read/Write off- Andrew reported he uses 2 systems for final read calculations, with Munis being used when the property is sold. The seller’s current balance is $ 393.19, but at closing, the attorney got the wrong spreadsheet showing the minimum charge of $133. Unfortunately, they cannot collect from the seller or the new owner, so Andrew asked the Commission to write off the difference. He apologized and said it was an honest mistake of sending the wrong spreadsheet. Scott suggested noting on the letter to the closing attorney the dollar amount with the date of the final read and state “see attached”. If the numbers don’t agree, the attorney will call for clarification. The Commission discussed the request and Andrew noted that he did try to collect it but was not able to. Motion: Scott D. Second: Arthur K. To write off the balance of $393.19 on 37 Wallis Park. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Arthur-aye, Chip-aye and Dan-aye. --99 Leominster Road waiver request- Andrew stated the owner uses a lot of irrigation during the year. He looked back at past bills for January to March and noted this bill was the highest ever. Her bill is usually around $500 -600 but the current bill was $750 which she was upset about. The owner has not found a leak but will need to investigate further. Andrew suggested she could ask the Commission for a one-time waiver of $173.20, which is based on the difference from her average usage. Scott suggested waiting until the next quarter to see if the amount is still high. Commission discussed whether to grant a waiver now or wait to see the usage for the current quarter. Andrew stated it would be noted on her account that she received the one-time waiver. Motion: Chip W. Second: Scott D. To grant the one-time waiver of $173.20 for 99 Leominster Road. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Chip-aye, Arthur-aye, and Dan-aye. Scott suggested keeping it on a future agenda to check future usage and see if issue was resolved. --100 Laurel Lane- Bill reported that the drain layer came up with a plan to connect but it will cost $9,700. He will need to insulate the pipe and continue the 6” pipe up to the garage. A manhole will be added next to the garage on ===PAGE 2=== their property and the garage will tie into the manhole. A pump will run from the house into the manhole. The line in the street will be owned by the town and the property owner will own the manhole. Bill noted that the town is paying for this because they can’t find the lateral that is supposed to be there. Dan pointed out that the price was $4,500 a couple weeks ago and Bill responded that the guy just gave a quick estimate but it was higher after he looked at the actual job. The Commission discussed the price of the job and Scott asked about getting more bids. Bill agreed and will get 2 more quotes. Bill said he looked into renting a device that could trace the lateral with a wand but he wasn’t sure if it included all parts. Dan suggested adding it to the future agenda. --990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use- Bill stated it was connected last fall and it looks like a rehab flip. The house had 4 bedrooms and now they are going to split the house by adding another bedroom for possibly an in-law setup. Scott noted the property is owned by his neighbor and he will abstain. He stated the house last sold for $20K in the 1970’s and is probably still in the family. Since the house is in the Village Historic District, they are going before the ZBA next month for permission to make it a 2 family. Dan noted they are not only adding a bedroom but changing the use and asked Andrew about the fees. Andrew replied they are already connected and paid that fee. Bill added there is also a fee for expansion. Dan thought that the builder may condoize the building into 2 houses. Andrew replied if that happens, they will need 2 separate meters with 2 sewer bills. Chip asked if they will need 2 sewer connections. Bill replied that they may go with only 1 meter since the add-on will be small like an apartment. Dan asked if they have an additional fee for 2 families and Andrew replied it is based on number of bedrooms. Bill said he needs to scour the regs. Dan asked if the duplexes at the old funeral home were charged 2 betterments and added that they may be missing the opportunity to charge for the 2 families. Bill will get answers for the next meeting. Motion: Dan P. Second: Arthur K. To allow the Expansion of Use at 990 Mass Ave. Discussion: Dan suggested letting Mr. Cole know that this is just for the increase in flow and there could be fees for the change in use down the road. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Arthur-aye, and Dan-aye. (Scott abstained.) --Wright-Pierce private sewer ways – Andrew stated this relates to finding the private sewer plans for the DEP and he does not have an update right now. They will be locating the plans to comply by 8/31. ---Future Agenda Items- Manhole Repairs, 100 Laurel Lane Scott asked if there have been any updates on the driving range property or the project at the old funeral home. Andrew said there was no update on the driving range. Bill added, in regard to the funeral home property, they have not seen the plans yet but knew they had applied and received permits from Mass DOT to work in the road. PUBLIC COMMENT – Dan congratulated all the board members who ran on the ballot and won new terms. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: June 9, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting June 30, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting July 14, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting July 28, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting Motion: Dan P. Second: Scott D. To adjourn at 7:00pm. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Chip-aye, Arthur-aye, and Dan-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-06-09-agenda-7842.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-06-09 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-06-09-agenda-7842.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06092026-7842 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 6:00PM Regular (Hybrid) Meeting DPW – 520 Chase Road Lunenburg, MA 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 public meeting is being conducted at the DPW office. 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 05/26/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. Manhole Repair IFB – Update ii. 100 Laurel Lane– Brief Discussion iii. 1790 Massachusetts Ave LT. J Water Leak waiver- Vote iv. 990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use (Sewer regulations)- Discussion c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES June 30th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting July 14th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting July 28th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting August 11th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.06.04-AV SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-06-09-minutes-7842.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-06-09 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-06-09-minutes-7842.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06092026-7842 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 6/9/26 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- Brett Ramsden, Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Brett opened the meeting at 6:03pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 5/26/26- Motion: Scott D. Second: Arthur K. To accept the minutes of the 5/26/26 meeting. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Dan-aye, Arthur-aye, Scott-aye and Brett-aye. ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– --Manhole Repair IFB- Bill reported the contractors came out this and last week. They are just about done and the framing grates are all switched out. The inside lining work is almost finished, with 3 left to do. Bill added that these were the manholes identified in the contract, needing repairs. They will need to do another study to see what to target next and put aside money for that. Bill saw one being worked on in which they mudded up the brick near the top and painted with an epoxy to keep water out. Some had a complete lining. --100 Laurel Lane- Bill noted at the last meeting the home owner and contractor came up with a proposal of around $9,000. The Commissioners asked for some more bids. Dan went out and stuck a probe into where they thought the pressure line would be but there wasn’t anything there. Bill asked them for a sketch for the scope of work which they provided. However, it had the manhole on town property and the line was insulated. The homeowner asked the engineer to do the scope of work and the drawing had the manhole sticking out of the road by about 8”. He expected Bill to raise the road and Bill said no-way. He discussed it with Dan and they agreed to run 3 lines, 4 feet deep, to the property line and the home owner will need to connect from there. The Commission reviewed the location on a map and discussed the options. Bill said he will put it out for bids and will run it down the dirt without digging up the road. The Commission discussed the E1 system set-up and Dan noted they are designed to run independently. Bill added that the Commission specifies the E1 system and another type but those are hard to get. --1790 Mass Ave Lot J Water Leak waiver – Andrew reported the owner had a high water bill and a sewer bill of about $4000. It was discovered that she had geyser leaking under her trailer for 6 weeks in the winter, which she was not aware. The water did not enter the sewer system and the owner did not use it. The leak has been fixed and Andrew suggested charging her the average of her last 4 bills, which is usually just the minimum. He clarified that her sewer bill was actually $6,260. The Commissioners discussed and agreed to the waiver. Motion: Dan P. Second: Arthur K. To accept the waiver for 1790 Mass Ave Lot J for $6,127.00. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Dan-aye, Arthur-aye, Scott-aye, and Brett-aye. --990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use (Sewer Regulations) – Bill stated at the last meeting they approved the expansion of use for adding a bedroom and noted they paid the fee. The question was asked if there is a charge to go from a single family to a multi-family. Bill and Andrew went through the regulations but only found something about if it was empty when it was bettered and then they added to it. He will need to run it by the Town Attorney first. Scott suggested looking at it because of the easing of building restrictions. Dan asked how much they charged for the 3 duplexes at the Stone Farm package store that was torn down. Commission discussed the Stone Farm duplexes and if extra betterments were charged. Scott also asked about fees for the duplexes on Electric Ave. Bill replied that he will talk to Town Counsel about fees. Scott inquired about the building at the old funeral home which would have been 4 new tie-ins and the Commission discussed. ---Future Agenda Items- 100 Laurel Lane, fees for extra connections ===PAGE 2=== PUBLIC COMMENT – none UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: June 30, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting July 14, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting July 28, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting August 11, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting Motion: Scott D. Second: Arthur K. To adjourn at 6:40 pm. Roll Call Vote: Dan-aye, Chip-aye, Arthur-aye, Scott-aye, and Brett-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-06-30-agenda-7878.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-06-30 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-06-30-agenda-7878.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06302026-7878 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, June 30th, 2026 6:00PM (Zoom) Meeting REMOTE (Revised) 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 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 06/09/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. Manhole Repair IFB – Update ii. CTE Pump Station repairs FY27 & Sewer O&M IFB- Brief Discussion iii. End of Year Adjustments- Vote to approve iv. 100 Laurel Lane– Brief Discussion v. Q4 FY26 Demands recap – Brief Discussion vi. 990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use (Sewer Regs)- Update vii. Sewer Commission Reorg- Discussion c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES July 14th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting July 28th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting August 11th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting August 25th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.06.24 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-06-30-minutes-7878.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-06-30 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-06-30-minutes-7878.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06302026-7878 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 6/30/26 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- Brett Ramsden, Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley 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/ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 6/09/26 Motion: Dan P. Second: Chip W. To accept the minutes of 6/09/26. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Chip-aye, Dan-aye, and Brett-aye. ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– --Manhole Repair IFB- Bill reported the work was completed last week, except for one on Prospect Street, near Laurel Lane. Every time they went there they took gas readings which read unsafe for entering the manhole. Bill said he believes that is the one that Leominster Road pumps into. When the contractor looked at it they recommended replacing the manhole in kind. He estimated that manhole is about 15’ deep. Brett asked if it could have been a design flaw, but Bill said it was typical. All the flow and gases will eventually eat away at the concrete. Brett asked if they need to bring in an engineer. Bill replied no as it was already on the repair list and suggested putting out another Invitation to Bid to replace that one manhole. At the same time, they could line it with the epoxy so hopefully it would last longer. Bill added they have time to address it, but will have CTE look at it, to see how much time they have. He will have to put a contract together because it is a big one. --CTE Pump Station repairs for FY27 & Sewer O&M IFB- Andrew reported in FY27 they need to do generator repairs at West St. and Leominster Rd. stations. They already have the estimates and both are in the budget for FY27. There are also repairs at Dana St. Bill noted the contract with CTE ends August 26 and they are at the end of the 3 year contract. He has put a new contract together with the goal of putting it out to bid by July 8th, so they can have it place for 8/27. The contract is essentially the same as before but he has cleaned it up a little so it is easier to follow. He also added the checklists from the Operations & Maintenance Manual. Brett made note that since they sent letters out concerning what should not be put into toilets, there have not been replacing pumps. Andrew and Bill agreed there have been fewer calls about clogs. Bill will email the contract to the Commissioners. --End of Year Adjustments- Andrew noted the negative number was high due to the lot with the large 6 week leak which negated the final readings in the past month for the 4th quarter. Scott added that was overstated revenue but the owner paid her actual bill. The Commissioners need to sign the EOY adjustments before 7/15. Motion: Scott D. Second: Dan P. To accept the End of Year Adjustments for FY26. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Dan-aye, Scott-aye, Arthur-aye, and Brett-aye. --100 Laurel Lane- Bill reported he is putting out contract language for replacing 3 pressure lines from the manhole to the property line. It is going through procurement at Town Hall and will also go out for bid by 7/8. --Q4 FY26 Demands recap- Andrew reported 240 delinquent notices went out for about 25% delinquency rate for the quarter but was 11-12 % delinquency for the year. Chip asked how long it takes for those bills to be paid and how they fix that. Andrew replied that if delinquencies are not paid in November, that amount will go on their tax bills as a tax lien. Eventually the money gets back in some way. --990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use (Sewer Regs) – Andrew and Bill met with Town Counsel, who said they cannot charge another connection fee. They could increase rates in general. Bill- added Counsel said there was nothing in their regs that said they could charge extra fees in those situations. The Commission could look at raising connection fees. Andrew noted 990 Mass Ave. was charged the $220 for the extra bedroom. and had already paid the betterment fee. Dan read from the by-law that a minimal residential connection fee of $3,900 is charged per ===PAGE 2=== dwelling unit as defined by Lunenburg Protective By-Law. He asked if a single family is changed into 2 units that could be sold, shouldn’t they pay another $3,900 for the additional unit. Andrew stated they paid the original betterment and the Connection Fee, but now they are changing the whole landscape. The Commission discussed and Bill said he could ask the Assessors how they will be looking at it. If they are going to look at it as a duplex, they could charge them the extra Connection Fee. The Commission agreed to look at a change to the by-laws and discussed what it would take to make a change. Bill and Andrew will write up the language and have Town Counsel look at it. The Commission can change a regulation, but a bylaw change has to go to Town Meeting. The Commission discussed some scenarios for extra connections and will discuss the language at the next meeting. --Sewer Commission Reorg- Brett asked if they want to do any reorganization of the board. They discussed and everyone will stay in their roles. Motion: Scott D. Second: Dan P. To keep the appointed roles the same. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Arthur-aye, Dan-aye, Scott-aye, and Brett-aye. ---Future Agenda Items- Manhole replacement, Extra Fees for Duplexes PUBLIC COMMENT – none UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: July 14, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting July 28, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting August 11, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting August 25, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting Motion: Dan P. Second: Scott D. To adjourn at 6:41pm. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Dan-aye, Scott-aye, Chip-aye, and Brett-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-07-14-agenda-7900.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-07-14 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-07-14-agenda-7900.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07142026-7900 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, July 14th, 2026 6:00PM Regular (Hybrid) Meeting DPW – 520 Chase Rd. Lunenburg 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 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 06/30/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. FY27 Yearly Grease Trap Permits- Update ii. 990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use (Sewer Regs)- Update iii. 100 Laurel Ln- Update iv. CTE contract renewal- Update c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES July 28th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting August 11th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting August 25th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting September 8th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 7. Adjourn REV2026.07.07 SEWER COMMISSION Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-07-14-minutes-7900.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-07-14 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-07-14-minutes-7900.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_07142026-7900 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 7/14/26 Sewer Commission meeting– Regular (Hybrid) Meeting @ DPW Building Attendees: Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere Absent: Chair- Brett Ramsden, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley Scott opened the meeting at 6:08pm. and did a roll call of attendees. The Commission began the meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS - none CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 06/30/26 Motion: Dan P. Second: Arthur K. To accept the minutes of 6/30/26. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Dan-aye, Arthur-aye and Scott-aye. ---DPW Director/Sewer Business Manager Updates– ---FY27 Yearly Grease Trap Permits- Andrew reported that he sent out the permit renewals on 7/1 but has only received back a renewal from Ruby Donuts. He asked the other grease trap owners to submit their renewals by August 3rd. Andrew noted that there are 12 establishments with permits for grease traps. The trap is installed in 3 bay sinks or interceptors, and each establishment is required to submit a report monthly. He also clarified that these traps do not include the oil/water separators. Dan asked about the grease traps at the schools and Andrew replied that they clean it out in June but he will check on that. Dan inquired if the issues at the Mass Ave station could be due to grease from the schools but Bill noted that the issue was not grease related. ---990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use (Sewer Regs)- Andrew stated he will not have any update until they meet with Town Counsel next week to discuss wording for fees for new multi-unit hookups. If needed, it would go to the November Town Meeting. Dan read from the by-law that “ the minimum residential connection charge is $3,900 and each separate unit of a multi-unit dwelling shall constitute a separate residential connection.” Scott clarified that 900 Mass Ave. is a single-family and they pulled a permit for expansion of use with an additional bedroom. Dan added he was told that it was to be a 2 family. The Commission discussed the construction at 990 Mass Ave, duplex at 763 Mass Ave. (the old funeral home property) and duplexes at 792 Mass Ave. (the former Stone Farm property). Scott noted there were 2 mailboxes at the former funeral home but Bill stated they have not applied for tie-ins yet. Bill added that the duplexes at the former Stone Farm property have not applied to connect yet. The Commission discussed the connection fees and betterments for duplex projects. Andrew stated they charged a betterment for each unit at the 711 duplexes. Dan noted that he was assessed an additional privilege fee and the tie-ins for about $11K for his development at 1325 Mass Ave., so they are within their regulations to consider additional fees for extra units. He clarified that a privilege fee is ½ of a betterment for making another property out of one that has already paid a betterment. The Commission also discussed the 2 duplexes on Electric Ave, across from the church. Bill stated there were 2 connections with each unit coming out of the house to a manhole, with 2 tie-ins to the main in the street. Scott asked if every application is supposed to come before the Commission. The Commission discussed their role in reviewing new permit applications and when permits expire. ---100 Laurel Lane- Bill reported that he put out a work contract for bid to begin 7/21/26. --- CTE contract renewal- Bill reported that the contract will be going out shortly for a 1 year contract, with a 2 year option with an opening bid date of 8/3/26. ---Future Agenda Items- 100 Laurel Lane, CTE contract renewal, 900 Mass Ave, Prospect St./Laurel Lane Manhole ---Old Business – Scott inquired about the newly sealed manholes and the day of heavy rain. Andrew replied that he could check the data from the flow meters on rainy days. Bill said ideally it would be good to inspect the manholes again to determine the next ones needing repairs. Chip suggested they ask the drain-layers to look at manholes near where they are working to see if they see any issues to report. The Commission discussed needing to re-assess the ===PAGE 2=== manholes noted in the 2014 assessment. Chip added that the as-built form could ask for information on the adjacent manholes. Dan asked if there was an update on the manhole on Prospect St. near Laurel Lane and Bill replied it was recommended that it be replaced due to its condition, noting it is 15’ deep. PUBLIC COMMENT – none UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: July 28, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting August 11, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting August 25, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting September 8, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting Motion: Dan P. Second: Arthur K. To adjourn at 6:54 pm. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Chip-aye, Dan-aye and Scott-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-07-28-agenda-7927.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-07-28 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-07-28-agenda-7927.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07282026-7927 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, July 28th, 2026 6:00PM (Zoom) Meeting REMOTE 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 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 07/14/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. CTE contract renewal- Update ii. 100 Laurel Ln Bid- Update iii. Upcoming and Completed Pump Station repairs- Discussion iv. Quarter 1 FY27 Sewer Billing- Update v. 990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use (Sewer Regs)- Update c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES August 11th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting August 25th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting September 8th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting September 22nd, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting 7. ADJOURN REV2026-07-22 SEWER COMMISSION 2006–2026 • Celebrating 20 Years Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-07-28-minutes-7927.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-07-28 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-07-28-minutes-7927.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_07282026-7927 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 7/28/26 Sewer Commission meeting– via Zoom (Video Conference) Attendees: Chair- Brett Ramsden, Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley 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/ANNOUNCEMENTS – Aaron Steeves, representing the 100 Laurel Lane project, stated he had a couple of questions. Brett replied that he can give his input later in the meeting when they discuss 100 Laurel Lane. CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 7/14/26 Motion: Chip W. Second: Dan P. To accept the minutes of 7/14/26. Roll Call Vote: Scott-aye, Dan-aye, Arthur-aye and Chip-aye. Brett abstained. --- Sewer Business Manager/ DPW Director Updates– ---CTE contract renewal- Bill reported that he put together the new bidding language and the Town Counsel reviewed it. It should be advertised as Mass. General Law 30B, which is a Service Contract. The previous contract went out as a Mass. General Law 3039, which is a Construction Contract. They are doing a 1-month extension on the current contract, to allow time to advertise it. The only drawback is if they have to do something that constitutes construction, they will have to enter into a separate contract to do construction work, such as a scheduled pump replacement. If the cost is over $10K, he will need to go out to bid. Because there is a flaw in the law, the State could do separate legislation to allow Lunenburg to have a contract for both service and construction. Town Counsel will put together the language, and the Sewer Commission will have to vote to approve. Next it will go before Town Meeting for approval and then to our State Rep. to bring it forward as special legislation. Bill added that under 30B, they can handle and stabilize if there is an emergency. If a pump needs replacement and it is less than 10K, they can get quotes and award work without going out to bid. It would be separate from their contract. ---100 Laurel Lane Bid- Aaron and Gary Steeves -Bill reported they put out an IFB to install 3 pressure lines from the manhole to the property line at 100 Laurel Lane and only got 2 bids. One bid was $20K but the bidder did not submit the required forms. The 2nd bid was very high at $50K so both bids were thrown out. They will need to repackage it or find alternatives before sending it out again. Aaron Steves stated they have been working on this for 14 months and trying to figure out how to expedite things, to avoid the winter moratorium again. He noted that he is trying to get his father into the ADU this year. Aaron is a general contractor, and he can go out to find other bidders. His father paid the betterment years ago and thought the work had been done in the street, but apparently not. Bill noted he has 2 as-built drawings but found the lines are not there and they cannot cut the road after 11/15. Gary Steeves asked to clarify they would be putting in 3 lines. Bill replied there would be 1 for the ADU, 1 for the house and the other for the house beyond 100 Laurel Lane. Gary pointed out that the line from the house would be going by the ADU, so they would have just one line to the manhole. Bill responded that he would need an engineer or someone from E-1 to confirm that would be ok. Gary noted that he has been there since 2001 and no one has dug up the street. Dan pointed out that the price of the project is for digging up the road and jack hammering the ledge. Aaron asked what the next steps are. Bill replied he can use the same bid language and find out why the high bidder went so high. Chip stated that Bill controls the cutoff date for work in the road and if the weather is good around 11/15, Bill could allow work to be done. Aaron reiterated that he could get bids from side contractors he works with. Bill will send Aaron a copy of the RFB and agreed the town owes them the stub. ---Upcoming and Completed Pump Station repairs – Andrew reported they just completed a pump replacement at the Francis St. station at a cost of $7,468. There are a couple more that need to be done, hopefully before the contract expires on 8/26. A few are under $10K but there are also a couple over $10K. These repairs are necessary to keep the pump stations functioning without issues. ---Quarter 1 FY27 Sewer Billing – Andrew reported that the Q1 bills have been completed, printed and it took 5 days to do them. Bill added that Andrew needs to go through every customer- over 1,000 – to check the numbers. ===PAGE 2=== Andrew stated that Munis puts in numbers where they do not belong such as charging a customer $163K for no reason. Chip asked if there is anything that can be done, but Andrew said it is the program that Lunenburg, as well as Fitchburg and many others, use. ---990 Mass Ave Expansion of Use (Sewer Regs) – Bill and Andrew met with Town Counsel to review the regulations. This property is changing a single family into a multi-family which would be charged 2 connection fees and 2 betterments. In this case, they had been charged 1 betterment and 1 connection fee but then added a bedroom, for which they collected the expansion of use fee. Bill said that Dan questioned the charge and they discussed it with Town Counsel. It is still a single family, but the owner is now going before ZBA to get it changed to a multi-family. When that change occurs, they can charge them the extra betterment and connection fees. Town Counsel said they will need to give them back the $550 collected for the extra bedroom. Bill noted the betterments were charged to cover the cost for constructing the sewer system. They will need to assess how much has been charged so far and Town Counsel advised to be consistent in their charges. Bill noted the bulk of the sewer went in around 2005, with more expansion in 2014. The Commission discussed the betterment charges and connection fees to Leominster or Fitchburg. Bill cautioned they need to be able to justify any increased fees. Dan asked if the fees go into different accounts. Bill replied that the betterments go into their Reserve, from which they allocate into the operating budget. Andrew noted under special assessments, the remaining amount is almost $2 Million. The Commission will discuss more at the next meeting. ---Future Agenda Items- Betterment vs Connection fee discussion, 100 Laurel Lane. Bill noted that the IFB went out to 20 companies, to include the 10 drain layers that work with the town but received only 2 bids. PUBLIC COMMENT – Brett thanked Scott for standing in for him for a couple meetings. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: August 11, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting at DPW August 25, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting September 8, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting at DPW September 22, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting Motion: Scott D. Second: Arthur K. To adjourn at 6:54 pm. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Chip-aye, Dan-aye, Scott-aye, and Brett aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-08-11-agenda-7953.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-08-11 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-08-11-agenda-7953.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08112026-7953 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, August 11th, 2026 6:00PM Regular (Hybrid) Meeting DPW – 520 Chase Road Lunenburg, MA 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 public meeting is being conducted at the DPW office. 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 07/28/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. Quarter 1 FY27 Commitment- Vote to Approve ii. CTE O&M Contract- Update iii. 100 Laurel Ln- Update iv. Betterment vs. Connection Fee- Discussion v. Touch-a-Truck Event- Discussion c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES August 25th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting September 8th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting September 29th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting October 13th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 7. ADJOURN REV2026-08-06 SEWER COMMISSION 2006–2026 • Celebrating 20 Years Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-08-11-minutes-7953.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-08-11 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-08-11-minutes-7953.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08112026-7953 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Minutes of 8/11/26 Sewer Commission meeting– Regular Hybrid Meeting @ DPW Attendees: Chair- Brett Ramsden, Vice-Chair- Scott Dall, Clerk- Dan Proctor, Member: Arthur Katis and Chip Wilson, DPW Director- Bill Bernard, Sewer Business Manager- Andrew Valliere, Minutes Clerk- Jane Ranley 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/ANNOUNCEMENTS – Chip Guercio, a resident of Shirley, MA, stated he owns property at 104 Laurel Lane that he purchased in 1989. They stay there usually from May to October and have an inground system that works fine. He is aware that his neighbor at 100 Laurel Lane has been before the Commission about connecting to sewer for an ADU and possibly his house. Chip G. stated that he has no plans to tie in now but wanted to know if the pipe would come down from the manhole in case they wanted to tie-in in the future. He also got quotes for a pressure system pump. Bill displayed the map for that area and pointed out where they will be installing 3 lines – 2 lines for 100 Laurel Lane to connect the ADU and house and the third line will be a stub that can be connected to for 104. Bill noted that if he chooses to connect, he will have to go around the property at 100 Laurel Lane because the Commission does not allow easements. CURRENT BUSINESS – ---Minutes of 7/28/26. Motion: Arthur K. Second: Chip W. To accept the minutes of 7/28/26. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Dan-aye, Scott-aye, Arthur-aye and Brett-Aye. --- Sewer Business Manager/ DPW Director Updates– ---Quarter 1 FY27 Commitment- Andrew reported that billing for the 1st quarter was completed and totaled $339,779.55 with the new rate increase. The Commission accepted and signed the Commitment. Motion: Chip W. Second: Arthur K. To accept the Q1 FY27 Commitment of $339,779.55. Roll Call Vote: Arthur-aye, Scott-aye, Dan-aye, Chip-aye, and Brett-Aye. ---CTE O & M Contract- Bill reported that they are going to extend their contract to November, which gives them plenty of time to get the new contract in place. The new contract will be for 1 year, with the option to extend 2 more times and expires in November. It will go out as a Service Contract only but they are working on language to go to Town Meeting to make it Service and Construction Work. Then it will have to go to the Massachusetts State Legislature for approval. ---100 Laurel Lane – Bill stated that the DPW highway crew will do most of the work on this project such as the digging, backfilling and patching. Dan’s company will help with putting the pipes in and getting through the manhole. This combination will be a lot less cost and they are planning to start the work next week. Dig Safe and the Water Department have been notified and the pipe, along with the lateral kits have been ordered. Bill explained where the 2 laterals for 100 Laurel will go and also the lateral location for 104 Laurel. Dan noted that the traffic will be able to go around the work, and Bill added any holes left will be filled. ---Betterment vs Connection Fee- Andrew noted that 790 Mass Ave will have to pay an extra betterment. The property across the street at the old funeral home was divided into 3 properties and the 2 new properties will be charged betterments on top of the Connection Fees, for a total of almost $35K. Per the By-laws, if a property has paid their betterment but later divides the property, they will need to pay another betterment for the new property. Brett asked how much debt they were holding from the construction of the sewer system and Andrew replied about $1.9 million. The Commission discussed the cost of a betterment and a privilege fee. Bill stated that this topic was discussed with Town Counsel who said a privilege fee is half of a betterment. However, Dan read from the by-laws that they were equal. Andrew said he has a guideline in the system for the charges. Bill and Andrew will get clarification from Town Counsel. The Commission discussed how the sewer was done in phases and the cost varied for residents depending on how many homes connected in that phase. The Commission agreed to keep the subject on the future agenda. ===PAGE 2=== ---Touch-a-Truck Event – will be on August 28th at the TC Passios building 12 – 2:30 pm. Bill showed the flyer that is being distributed and noted it will be on social media as well as The Lunenburg Ledger. Last year, they had about 300 kids attend and about 40-50 trucks present. Many are coming again and Dan will have his trucks there. Scott plans on bringing his cotton candy machine again as well as a pop-up cover. ---Future Agenda Items- CTE O&M contract, Betterment vs Connection fee, 100 Laurel Lane PUBLIC COMMENT – Scott said he was very impressed on how quickly Bill, Dan and Andrew got the 100 Laurel Lane project going to get it completed. He thanked whoever facilitated it. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES: August 25, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting September 8, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting @ DPW September 29, 2026 @ 6pm – (Zoom) Meeting October 13, 2026 @ 6pm – Regular (Hybrid) Meeting @ DPW Motion: Scott D. Second: Arthur K. To adjourn at 6:36 pm. Roll Call Vote: Chip-aye, Dan-aye, Scott-aye, Arthur-aye, and Brett-aye. Respectfully submitted, Jane L. Ranley Minutes Clerk ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-08-25-agenda-7974.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-08-25 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-08-25-agenda-7974.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08252026-7974 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, August 25th, 2026 6:00PM Zoom (Remote) Meeting REMOTE 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 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 08/11/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. 100 Laurel Ln- Update ii. CTE O&M Contract- Update iii. Privilege Fees– Discussion iv. 786-796 Mass Ave Connection Fee- Update c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES September 8th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting September 29th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting October 13th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting October 27th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting 7. ADJOURN REV2026-08-19 SEWER COMMISSION 2006–2026 • Celebrating 20 Years Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-09-08-agenda-8000.txt BOARD : sewer-commission DATE : 2026-09-08 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/sewer-commission/2026-09-08-agenda-8000.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09082026-8000 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SEWER COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, September 8th, 2026 6:00PM Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 520 Chase Road, Lunenburg, MA 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 public meeting is being conducted at the DPW office. 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: 831 8724 9940. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and 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. CURRENT BUSINESS a. Minutes of 08/25/2026– Vote to Approve b. Sewer Business Manager/DPW Director Updates i. Special Town Meeting Article on Service and Construction Contracts language- Commission Vote(s) ii. CTE O&M Contract- Update iii. Touch-A-Truck– Recap iv. Privilege fee assessments 786-796 Mass Ave & 67 Pratt St- Commission Vote(s) c. Future agenda Items– Discussion 4. OLD BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. UPCOMING SCHEDULED SEWER COMMISSION ACTIVITIES September 29th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting October 13th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting October 27th, 2026, 6pm (Zoom) Meeting November 10th, 2026, 6pm Regular (Hybrid) Meeting 7. ADJOURN REV2026-09-01 SEWER COMMISSION 2006–2026 • Celebrating 20 Years Brett Ramsden, Chairman Scott Dall, Vice Chairman Dan Proctor, Clerk Arthur Katis, Member Chip Wilson, Member Bill Bernard, DPW Director Andrew Valliere, Business Mgr.