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Queenstown gets update on lead service-line inventory funding and water projects; town may seek rate study
Summary
Town Manager Amy Moore reported MDE funding of $129,346 (50% loan / 50% loan forgiveness) for the lead service-line inventory; Phase I costs $32,238 and the MDE loan may require water/sewer rate increases. Commissioners also heard updates on USDA documents for a new water tower and membrane-clean valve automation timing.
Town Manager Amy Moore updated commissioners on several infrastructure projects and funding that could affect rates and grant eligibility.
Moore said the Maryland Department of the Environment has allocated $129,346 to the town’s lead service-line inventory project, with the funding structured as 50% loan and 50% loan forgiveness. The current work consists of Phase I only at a cost of $32,238; staff will contact MDE to clarify how the loan/forgiveness split affects overall funding and to confirm whether additional funding or adjustments are needed. Moore told the commission that MDE will require a water/sewer rate increase as a condition of any loan, and the town should look into firms to perform a water/sewer rate study.
On other infrastructure items, the town is assembling documents for the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support a new water tower and related infrastructure work. Membrane clean and valve automation work is on hold until cleaning is scheduled in September or October. Moore also reported that Queenstown is participating with Queen Anne’s County on a Hazard Mitigation Plan, which municipalities must adopt to be eligible for FEMA and other grant or loan programs.
Commissioners discussed scheduling and next steps; no formal votes were taken on rate changes at the meeting, but staff were instructed to pursue clarification with MDE and research rate‑study firms.
