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Select Board backs removing mandatory 5–7‑year sewer tie‑in but members warn of tradeoffs
Summary
After extended debate on March 12 the Select Board voted to recommend Article 23, which would remove a mandatory 5–7‑year sewer tie‑in requirement. Supporters said the change encourages gravity sewer design and developer negotiation; critics warned it may shift betterment costs to sewer ratepayers and complicate funding for broader sewer expansion.
The Select Board debated Article 23 — a proposed bylaw change to remove a mandatory 5–7‑year sewer tie‑in requirement — at length during the March 12 meeting and ultimately voted to recommend the article to Town Meeting.
Supporters argued the change would encourage developers to construct gravity systems (which allow future abutters to connect) instead of private force mains that bypass neighboring properties and block broader sewer expansion. Town staff said removing the mandatory short tie‑in window would improve the town’s ability to negotiate with developers and pursue state grants that typically require municipal gravity systems.
Opponents warned that removing or lengthening mandatory tie‑in periods transfers costs to the water/sewer enterprise and to existing ratepayers if many abutters decline to connect; they argued it could make it harder to fund system expansion that benefits the whole corridor. Board members discussed potential middle paths (longer mandatory windows, developer payments or phased betterments) but the motion on Article 23 passed by roll call.
Staff and members emphasized the change would not retroactively affect existing accepted projects; it applies to future tie‑in policy and would be one tool among many for planning sewer expansion. The board asked DPW and finance staff to model financial impacts for the final Town Meeting discussion.
