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Selectmen back up to $500,000 authorization to replace water service lines tied to federal lead rule
Summary
The board recommended an article authorizing up to $500,000 (bonds/notes) to identify and replace water service materials to comply with the federal lead and copper rule; staff said roughly two‑thirds of the principal may be forgiven but funds must be authorized this year.
The board reviewed Article 6, which would authorize the selectmen to issue bonds or notes not to exceed $500,000 to identify, engineer and replace water system services to improve compliance with the federal lead and copper rule. Town staff said the town will seek principal forgiveness and other state support.
Town staff explained the program: "We're actually asking to authorize up to $500,000 with up to 66% of it being forgiven," a staff member said, adding current project estimates indicate the work itself may come in under $400,000 and that the town would only draw what is needed from any authorized amount. Board members asked whether the funding is time‑sensitive; staff replied that guidance indicates the funds would not be available next year if not authorized this year.
Selectmen recommended the article by voice vote. Members emphasized that the board would only borrow what is necessary and that authorization is intended to avoid missing an opportunistic funding window that includes substantial principal forgiveness.
