Introduction
00:0000:0000:59History including DEP Consent Decree: Heritage Pk
00:5902 History including where are sewers now?DEP Consent Decree on Heritage Park, temporary septic system. Other residents also desired sewers.
Initial Study and Plan: five phases proposed.
03:54Initial Study and Plan: five phases proposed. Three were prioritized.
May 14 Plan at Town Meeting needs 2/3 vote
05:37Town Meeting voted in-depth study. Current plan will come to May 14 Town Meeting for 2/3 vote that authorizes Selectmen to borrow money for construction. Other authorizations already in place.
Who pays? Which geographic areas are affected?
08:27General Fund vs Enterprise Fund Budgets
10:49Taxes vs betterment revenues. A general explanation.
What are betterments and EQRs?
12:56What are betterments and EQRs? How are they calculated? Can they be paid over time with interest?
What if you don't pay? A lien on your property.
15:43Estimated vs. actual costs.
16:06Developed/Undeveloped properties, Privilege fees
16:48Developed vs. undeveloped properties. What is a privilege fee, and how will their estimate affect the known sewer users?
Project costs. Gravity-based vs pumped sewers
23:18Betterment calculations
25:50Betterment calculation is referenced to septic system replacement cost. Sewers must be economically "better." First plan was too costly. Town sought alternative: "low pressure" pump at each house.
Total system vs average household cost
28:51Cost of total system and average cost per household.
Individual grinder pumps, low-pressure vs gravity
30:02Explanation of individual grinder pumps. Details on low pressure vs gravity.
Additional Cost 1: House hookup
33:34Two additional costs per homeowner: 1. install/hook up sewage line into house (but not for grinder pump)
Additional Cost 2: Access Fee
34:47Second additional cost per homeowner: Access Fee to pay toward sewer treatment plant.
Summary of all costs
36:49Betterment fees mandatory in this zone
37:56What if your septic system is OK? You can opt out of connecting, but betterment fee is still mandatory if you live in this zone.
All residents urged to vote at town meeting
38:46Several recent meetings have allowed residents to express their views. Some want the sewers, others do not. All are urged to vote their conscience at Town Meeting.
If no vote, sewer costs will only go up in future
40:42If project does not go through, costs for sewers will only go up in future.
Construction timing. What if costs too high?
41:57When would construction begin? What if cost estimates come in high?
Town hopes to bring business, can apply for grants
43:52Town can apply for grants to reduce costs, hoping to attract business.
If you have questions, call Town Manager or staff
44:54If you have questions, call Town Manager or other staff.