Selectboard hears water-system mapping and transfer-station maintenance updates; compactor bracket replacement estimated up to $3,100

Town staff gave updates on parks, water and waste operations during the meeting.

The public-works staff member reported that DES will use the town as a test site next Monday for a class, that the town’s water-system mapping (GIS) work is under way with support from a federal grant, and that one test for arsenic and bacteria returned normal. The staff member said she and a colleague located roughly five water shutoffs that appear to be on private property and will likely need replacement; she noted that historically the town has repaired such items without billing residents but said that may change pending a final inventory.

On sewer and transfer-station matters, staff said they have requested pricing on replacement pumps but were still awaiting confirmation from vendors. For the transfer station compactor, staff reported a damaged frame bracket under the can that aligns the compactor and said repairs could be done locally or the bracket could be replaced; a full replacement cost was estimated at up to $3,100 if outside service is required.

Board members also discussed the town’s recycling contractor and a clause in the contract that requires certain materials (tin cans, etc.) to go to the contractor. Members said the contract is due to expire next June (discussed in the meeting as June 2026) and planned to meet with the county contact and other towns before making any changes. They emphasized the need to review contract language before starting any local diversion program.

Staff flagged that adding another can or changing the contract terms could raise the contractor’s price. The board asked staff to check contract terms and report back before any policy change or vote.

No formal votes were recorded on these operational items during the meeting; staff were asked to follow up with quotes and contract review for future board consideration.