The Harwich Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners took a firm stance on fiscal policy and infrastructure standards during their Tuesday morning session, voting unanimously to deny a residential fee abatement while advancing a major overhaul of town sewer regulations. The regulatory updates are a critical prerequisite for the town to qualify for 0% interest financing through the State Revolving Fund (SRF). Consultant Mark noted that the revisions include a new section on prohibited materials following recent clogging issues in town, as well as updated grinder pump requirements. To be eligible for 0% SRF financing, you need these regs, Mark told the board, suggesting that officials meet with state representatives to ensure local policies regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) do not jeopardize that funding. Under the new rules, homeowners will be responsible for grinder pump maintenance, though pumps installed by certified manufacturers will carry a five-year warranty.

The board showed little appetite for leniency regarding billing disputes, voting 5-0 to deny a $50 late fee abatement for a customer at 21 Alder Lane. Chair Noreen Donoghue noted the customer had already received a one-time allowance the previous year. This looks pretty strange, Donoghue said. She just has to get her billing cycle straightened out... My sense is that she has to learn at some point. I would lean towards denying it. Commissioner J. Goff agreed with the strict enforcement, stating, I'll make a motion we deny it. She's had enough time. Motion Made by J. Goff to deny the abatement request for 21 Alder Lane. Motion Passed 5-0.

In a move to improve public amenities and PR for the department, the board authorized the reconnection of the historic Exchange Park water fountain. The fountain, which has been dormant for years, will be disinfected and tested by staff before being opened for public use. Superintendent Jason Trapania confirmed the Board of Health has no objections to the plan. Commissioner B. Young highlighted the community benefit, noting, People walking dogs would use it too. Chair Donoghue expressed a desire to see Harwich become more aware of hydration places for residents carrying water bottles. Motion Made by J. Goff to reconnect and make the Exchange Park fountain operable. Motion Passed 5-0.

The commissioners also began grappling with the long-term future of department facilities, specifically a proposed storage and training building referred to as the Space Building. The current capital plan carries a $1.5 million placeholder for the project in fiscal year 2028, but officials acknowledged that figure is likely inadequate. Superintendent Trapania explained that the building is necessary to move equipment and maintenance activities at least 200 feet away from town wells to prevent contamination from floor drains. The current buildings are at the end of their life expectancy, Trapania said, noting that indoor storage for trucks is essential. Donoghue suggested moving the project to the fiscal year 2029 plan and listing the cost as to be determined until engineers provide a formal estimate. Motion Made by J. Goff to approve a contract with Apex for asset management to maintain SRF eligibility. Motion Passed 5-0.

Infrastructure delays continue to plague the department’s broader timeline, largely due to ongoing friction with MassDOT. The Route 28 East water main replacement remains stalled as the town awaits state comments. These delays have a cascading effect on other projects, prompting Trapania to suggest pushing the Mill Road and Harwich Road water main replacements into 2029. Despite these setbacks, the board moved forward with professional service agreements to keep other planning on track. Motion Made by J. Goff to approve a rate consulting and technical assistance contract with Waterworks Consulting. Motion Passed 5-0.

Addressing environmental and public health mandates, Trapania reported that the town must undergo a cybersecurity assessment of its water systems by August 30 to comply with EPA requirements. The evaluation, which will be performed for free by General Dynamics, focuses on securing dual authentication and SCADA systems. Commissioner J. Underwood also raised the possibility of Harwich exploring alternative wastewater solutions, such as urine-diverting toilets currently being piloted in Falmouth, to reduce nitrogen levels in areas where traditional sewering is not immediately feasible. I'll get some info for the board, Underwood said, noting the importance of alternatives when the town cannot build sewers overnight.