Town Commission Discusses Addition of Third Operator for Veolia Water Management

The Water and Sewer Commissioners Meeting held on May 14, 2025, in Charlton, Worcester County, focused on staffing issues at the local water treatment facility and proposed amendments to the existing contract with Veolia, the facility's operator.

A significant discussion centered around the need for a third operator at the facility, which has been understaffed for some time. The current staff includes a manager, two operators, and a part-time assistant. The proposal aims to hire an additional operator and increase the assistant's hours to ensure adequate coverage during absences. This staffing issue was highlighted by a recent notice of noncompliance received by the facility, indicating that the current staffing levels are insufficient.

Commission members expressed concerns about the financial implications of the proposed changes. The amendment to the contract with Veolia includes a cost of $129,423 for the additional services. However, some commissioners were hesitant to vote on the amendment without having fully reviewed the financial details and the original contract language. They suggested postponing the decision to allow for further examination of the proposal and its budgetary impact.

The meeting concluded with a consensus to defer the vote until the next meeting, allowing commissioners time to familiarize themselves with the necessary documents and ensure that the budget for the upcoming fiscal year can accommodate the proposed changes. This decision reflects the board's commitment to thorough oversight and responsible financial management as they address the staffing needs of the facility.