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WPCA approves water-main extension agreement with EG Homes after edits on meters and shutoff language
Summary
The Water Pollution Control Authority approved a water-main extension agreement with EG Homes for a 76-unit townhome project after adding language on easements, shutoffs for nonpayment and clarifying joint-benefit responsibilities; the board required the commitment letter be revised before signature.
The Water Pollution Control Authority voted to approve a water-main extension agreement with developer EG Homes, with three edits added: (1) easement language for utility access and shutoffs, including failure-to-pay shutoff authority; (2) joint-benefit language clarifying shared responsibility for the utility tie and downstream infrastructure; and (3) correction of the developer name in the agreement.
Chris Olivera, representing EG Homes, told the board the 1947 Road project would convert meter pits to in-building meters and provide "2 parking spots in front of each unit." "Essentially, what we're trying to do is remove the water meter pits from the units itself and put meters inside the buildings," Olivera said, adding the design will result in 76 individual unit meters and an internal mechanical room for each building.
Board members focused on three operational points: who owns and maintains meters, how leaks on private property will be detected and addressed, and whether the public main feeding the development should be upsized. The chair said the utility would retain ownership of meters and be able to read them remotely. The chair also cited a prior costly leak: "We were losing about $1,500 a month on that leak," to explain why the board wants firm language on access and responsibilities.
Groton Utilities staff confirmed hydrant locations had been reviewed by the fire chief and indicated hydrant fees and winter marking responsibilities would be addressed in the community bylaws. The developer and utility staff also discussed a low-pressure sewer approach using grinder pumps at the rear of clusters of buildings; the board accepted that the HOA would likely own and maintain those grinder pumps, with operational responsibilities reflected in the commitment letter.
The board asked staff to incorporate the agreed edits into a commitment letter. Chair said the letter would be signed only after those modifications were included. The motion to approve the water-main extension agreement with the three edits passed by voice vote.
Next steps: staff will finalize the commitment letter with the agreed easement and shutoff language, deliver a signed copy to the developer, and the developer may proceed to planning and zoning once the signed commitment is available.
