Town administrator reports grant applications submitted; water and sewer updates include pending East Berkshire discussion and a sewer rate increase

Town Administrator Marissa Tessier reported several grant-related submissions and other routine departmental updates at the Nov. 3 Selectboard meeting.

Tessier told the board the town applied for Better Roads, Wildland Fire Gear and UMATR grants and submitted a reimbursement request related to a Dry Hydrant grant. She also reported driveway permit activity and noted there were two offers on 50 Farrar Street; the board later accepted the $12,500 offer.

In the Water & Sewer report the board heard that a meeting to discuss providing water service to East Berkshire had taken place but no decision was made. The board was told a lead inventory notice had been mailed with water bills and that an increase in the sewer base rate will take effect beginning with the April water bills; the minutes do not state the amount of the increase.

Public works and buildings updates included a new highway hire who is learning a plow route and confirmation that trucks are ready for winter. The library roof has been completed and work on the EMS roof is scheduled to begin; the board is waiting for quotes on pillars and for a recommendation from Jon Doane about replacing the Town Hall sill. The door at the post office has been replaced and water to the town fountain has been shut off while the highway crew explores options to cover it.

Board members discussed adding a grants report to the Town Report to clarify how grant funds are incorporated into the budget.