Shelburne officials discuss bulk water station amid leak detection and elevated water-loss figures

The Town of Shelburne Water Commission on March 10 discussed operational response to recent distribution breaks, higher-than-normal system losses, and a proposed bulk water filling station that staff said could generate revenue.

Water Superintendent Bart Sherman reported winter operations and active leak detection using correlators. He listed recent breaks at Hullcrest Road, Brook Lane and Woodbine, and said staff are deploying correlators throughout the system to identify hot spots. Sherman provided water-loss figures of 6.04% for fourth quarter 2025 and 13.5% for February 2026.

On customer demand, Sherman said the department has "received multiple calls from our bulk water customers requesting the filling station." He described a two‑step approach: lay the foundation first, then request board approval for the filling‑station structure. "This will be revenue generating and a huge benefit to our neighbors; [we] expect this to pay for itself within 3 years," he said.

Town Manager Matt Lawless said the department currently has a good handle on budget and expenditures and is pursuing business growth among high water consumers. Commissioners discussed budget and operations but did not take a formal vote on the filling‑station proposal at this meeting.

Why it matters: the proposed bulk water station could diversify revenue for the Water Department and serve local customers who need bulk deliveries. Elevated water-loss figures reported for February suggest the department faces near‑term operational challenges that may affect supply and revenue.

Next steps: staff will continue leak detection work and bring budget and design details for the filling station to the commission for future consideration.