Richfield Council Advances Water Infrastructure Plans Amid Ongoing Issues

The August 21, 2025, Public Hearing and Town Council Meeting for Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, focused on several key issues affecting the community, including infrastructure updates, financial reports, and public works initiatives.

The meeting commenced with a discussion on the council's progress on long-standing issues, with members expressing optimism about moving forward on projects that had been stagnant for nearly a decade. This sentiment was echoed by council members who highlighted the importance of the rental program, which is expected to benefit the town significantly.

Next, the town treasurer's report was presented, although the treasurer was absent. A representative confirmed that the report was submitted and available for review, inviting questions from council members.

Public works updates were a significant portion of the meeting. The council learned about three recent water main breaks in the Richfield area, prompting proactive measures to investigate similar conditions in the neighborhood. The public works director, Jay, indicated that further research would be conducted to identify potential issues with the water infrastructure, particularly concerning the materials used in older installations. He noted that the cast iron saddles, which have been problematic, were installed during a period known for inferior materials.

The council also received an update on the water meter reading system. A demonstration of the Aqua Hawk customer portal was provided, showcasing features that allow residents to monitor their water usage and set notifications for billing thresholds. This system aims to empower residents to manage their water consumption more effectively. The integration with the town's existing utility management system is underway, with funding already allocated for the project.

In addition to water management, the wastewater treatment plant report highlighted routine maintenance and upcoming projects. The plant is scheduled for filter cleaning, and the council discussed recent bids for site lighting and flow meters, noting that while some bids were received, others would need to be reissued due to a lack of responses.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing infrastructure challenges and enhancing community services. The next steps include further research on water infrastructure and continued implementation of the new water meter reading system, with updates expected in future meetings.