During the MSAD 51 School Board meeting on December 5, 2024, significant discussions centered around soil management and stormwater runoff related to the upcoming turf field project at the school campus.

A key concern raised involved the presence of elevated arsenic levels in the soil, as indicated in the SLOTA permit application prepared by Atlantic Resource Consultants. The project will disturb areas with these contaminated soils, prompting questions about the timeline for amending the campus's Voluntary Response Action Plan (VRAP). Community members expressed a desire for transparency regarding how these soils will be managed during construction.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the stormwater runoff from the new turf field, which will cover over 2.3 acres and feature an underdrain system to collect rainwater. This water will be directed to a wet pond behind the middle school, eventually discharging into a drainage easement in a nearby neighborhood. Concerns were raised about potential pollutants, particularly microplastics, in the runoff. Community members advocated for the installation of filtration systems to treat stormwater, emphasizing the importance of routine testing for emerging contaminants.

The discussions highlighted the community's commitment to ensuring environmental safety and transparency in the management of the turf field project. As the school board moves forward, the implementation of effective soil management and stormwater treatment strategies will be crucial in addressing these concerns and safeguarding local water quality.