WPCA asks selectmen to seek legal funding and reopen sewer buy‑in agreement with neighboring city

Martin McKenna addressed the board during new business to request two actions from the selectmen: a small operating line item for legal counsel and permission to reopen the sewer operating agreement with a neighboring municipality (referred to in the transcript as J City) to reconsider developer buy‑in fee allocations.

McKenna said the WPCA lacks a budget to pursue legal work and that buy‑in fees charged to developers on parts of the corridor have been substantial in prior projects (he cited a $1.4 million example for a development labeled Heritage River). "We spent $6 million out there. If we could recoup some of it and do some long‑term maintenance stuff, I think it's a win for the town," McKenna said.

Board action: A motion was made that the selectmen request the board of finance to establish a line item for legal expenses to support negotiations and potential executive sessions with the board of finance and the selectmen. The motion was seconded and approved. The board instructed staff to coordinate scheduling for executive session discussion and to consult with finance officials on mechanisms for dealing with buy‑in fees.

Context and caveats: McKenna emphasized the request involves developer funds rather than tax dollars. The board did not authorize specific legal spending at the meeting beyond asking the board of finance to consider establishing a funding line; further discussion and an executive session were proposed.

Next steps: The selectmen will work with the board of finance to schedule an executive session and will seek a formal proposal from the WPCA and counsel about reopening the operating agreement and possible mechanisms to reserve a portion of buy‑in fees for maintenance or contingency.