Notes from Water and Sewer Commission September 7, Hybrid Meeting

Present: Don Schneyer, Chair

• John Loiodice
• Peter Socha
• Jennifer Carmichael, Secretary

Also present: Michael Buffoni, Water Superintendent and Tony Campetti, Sewer Superintendent

1. Minutes from August 10 approved.
2. Policy for sewer abatement: discussion of when to abate and when not to. Socha wanted "more teeth", that is, stronger enforcement. Loiodice said since there were so few instances and such a small amount of money involved, he preferred to foster good will by abating. Final decision appeared to be to decide each situation individually.
3. Tuckerman Bridge: Town Administrator Canales and Forsythe Land Services will assess how much weight the bridge can carry. On that basis they will determine if work can go forward.
4. Campetti reports:
   1. Park Street pump station getting under way.
   2. It is illegal for individuals to divert sump pump water into the sewer but apparently that is being done on Park St. There will be an inspection to determine if any residents are diverting such water to sewer. Prior to that a letter will go out with information about the law and the fine ($20/day)
   3. With heavy rains, new problems. One example, dye placed at Maple Street showed up on Elm and into sewer. "Stay tuned" for more results.
   4. Water Haulers late fees: everyone is paid up. In the future, if they have not paid after 30-60 days, cut them off until they pay. Should fee be increased?
5. Buffoni reports:
   1. Water Shed inspection went well
   2. How much water does Stockbridge Bowl hold? In 1931, Joseph Franz drilled holes and determined an amount. Apparently, there was more water in the lake in 1931, however Buffoni asked GZA (water resources consultant) for a price to measure today for comparison. Is the change drastic?
   3. Loiodice reported the Stockbridge Bowl Stewardship Commission discussed the Lake Drive Association and its desire to hook up to sewer. An alternative suggested by Jim Wilusz was a community sewer. Loiodice said one issue is who pays for what?
   4. The health implications for the lake should be considered.
   5. Buffoni said the phosphorus and nitrate levels are very low — indicating very little leakage from septics and general good health of the lake.
   6. White noted that a report (from the Commonwealth?) was wrong by confusing Laurel Lake and Stockbridge Bowl — Buffoni would ask that it be corrected.

Meeting adjourned

Photo: Jay Rhind