During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing need for enhanced collaboration among Cape Cod towns to address critical issues, particularly in wastewater management and water quality. The county's role in coordinating these efforts was emphasized, with a focus on the rising costs associated with water treatment programs, exacerbated by inflation.

One key area of concern is the PFAS contamination affecting local water systems. Officials highlighted the necessity for towns to work together, citing the example of Barnstable, which has five separate water entities. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the town's experience with PFAS, which led to emergency measures to ensure a safe water supply. The need for interconnections between water departments and collaborative agreements was deemed essential to maintain water quality across the region.

The discussion also touched on the challenges faced by residents relying on private wells, particularly in West Barnstable, where many are unaware of the potential contaminants in their water. The county's capacity to conduct PFAS testing was noted, with a call for strategies to fund regular testing for those on private systems to ensure public health and safety.

In addition to water issues, the meeting addressed solid waste management, highlighting the diminishing availability of landfills and the need for sustainable waste disposal solutions. The officials acknowledged the importance of finding alternatives to landfilling, as many facilities are nearing closure.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's potential to lead initiatives that foster collaboration among towns, improve water quality, and address waste management challenges effectively.