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Officials weigh phosphorus controls, chemical storage building and long-term plant options
Summary
The meeting reviewed plans to add phosphorus treatment, including chemical feed systems and a small structure to house pumps, controls and chemical storage. Participants discussed containment, fencing, a gate for deliveries and larger questions about building a new treatment plant and bonding for major upgrades.
Officials discussed short-term phosphorus controls and the infrastructure needed to meet treatment responsibilities, and they raised longer-term questions about replacing the town's water filtration system.
A participant said the immediate phosphorus-related work — chemical feed equipment, a pump and containment — could cost roughly $15,000 but cautioned that figure was likely low. Attendees discussed using alum or ferric chloride for treatment, adding a small chemical room with an eyewash and safety shower, and providing concrete footings and double containment for tanks. Options discussed included a 9,000‑gallon bulk tank or a 1,000‑gallon holding tank for mini‑bulk deliveries; speakers emphasised safe storage, fencing and an electric gate to allow chemical deliveries.
The group also flagged more extensive capital options: building a new treatment plant or adding a second well on recently purchased property. One participant referenced an engineer's estimate of $44.5 million for a full new plant (presented as an example and not a project estimate for the town). Participants recognised that a new plant would require engineering, bonding and likely disqualify the town from some state grants if reserves are too high. The group asked staff and engineers to refine costs, safety specifications and design options and to return with more detailed proposals at the next meeting.
