Richmond commission recommends reappointments, approves ADU allocation and hears plant operations update

The Richmond Water & Sewer Commission on July 6 recommended that the select board reappoint the two incumbents who had expressed interest in continuing on seats reserved for system customers. Commissioners discussed a letter of interest from Merrick Giles (not present) and agreed to forward the commission’s recommendation to the select board for final appointment.

The commission approved a final allocation for an accessory dwelling unit at 114 East Main Street: 210 gallons per day of wastewater capacity and 280 gallons per day of water. The applicant had provided the required payment prior to the meeting and the motion to approve the allocation passed by roll-call vote.

Operational updates: superintendent Steve Cody briefed the commission on multiple infrastructure items. Progress on the Tilden waterline replacement is nearing service-connection work, with an estimated two to three weeks until connections are complete if testing passes. A section of the Cochran Road replacement could not be located and remains to be resolved. Cody also described persistent problems with the water tank mixers, noting access limitations that require divers for service and add cost. On wastewater operations, Cody said polymer feed and press equipment have been temperamental; a pump change improved performance but a recent failure affected the plant’s ability to process septage and reduced associated revenue.

What’s next: the commission tabled a fuller review of the wastewater monthly report until the next meeting to allow the superintendent to present additional context and data. Members identified follow-up agenda items including LOT-related questions, wastewater reporting, and scheduling public-facing materials if the commission moves forward on funding options.