Richmond water commissioners approve 4% pay-grade bump for water staff; Tilden/Bridge/Cochran project readied for early summer

The Richmond Water & Sewer Commission on May 18 approved a 4% increase to the water resources department pay grade for fiscal 2027 and reviewed third‑quarter financial results for water and wastewater operations.

Josh introduced incoming finance director Katie Fogel, who presented budget-to-actual reports through the end of March. Katie said water user revenue was about 72.6% of the annual budget, slightly below the 75% pace expected at three quarters; expenses were generally under budget because of staffing vacancies and lower health insurance costs. On wastewater, user and septage revenue were in the low‑to‑mid 70s percent range. Katie and Josh noted FEMA reimbursements inflate some lines and explained a negative balance in wastewater capital reflects expensing engineering for a 20‑year facility study while awaiting reimbursements.

Commissioners discussed personnel costs and inflation during the meeting. After hearing that the town budget had assumed a 3% pay‑grade increase but New England CPI had moved higher, Commissioner Bart moved, and Commissioner David seconded, a motion to increase the water resources pay grade by 4% for FY27. Commissioners recorded their votes in favor and the motion passed.

The board also received a detailed construction update on the Tilden Avenue, Bridge Street and Cochran Road waterline replacement. Staff described curb‑stop marking, submittal reviews and that Munson plans to have pipe on site in August; tentative construction mobilization was described as late May or early June, with the full project expected to run roughly three to four months. Staff said they will post a firm start date on Front Porch Forum and the town website once available and will coordinate traffic advisories with state and county lists.

Commissioners discussed adding the final 500‑ft Huntington Road section to the current Munson contract. Engineering estimates range from about $190,000 (minimal added engineering, change order with Munson) to $220,000 (additional SRF engineering and bidding). Staff recommended seeking a change order with Munson — who is already mobilized — to avoid remobilization and possible inflationary price increases next year. The commission reached consensus to ask Tyler and Munson for a formal change‑order price and to return with a request for a formal vote and funding plan, noting available unrestricted funds and reserves that could cover the work without a loan if the commission so votes.

Superintendent and operations staff reported the treatment plant is operating normally following recent coverage, septage capacity was returning to typical volumes, hydrant maintenance is scheduled and a new influent pump will be tested. Staff also noted that certain water repairs have been limited this year, which helped push operations expenses below budget.

Next steps: staff will return with a Munson change‑order proposal for Huntington Road if available, and finance will keep the commission updated as reimbursements and audit adjustments finalize year‑end balances.