TOWN OF PITTSFORD
WATER AND SEWER COMMISSION
July 16, 2013
Water and Sewer Commission Members Present – Allen Hitchcock, David Pearson, Bob Harnish, Helen McKinlay, and Clarence Greeno. Others present: John Haverstock and Kelly Giard – Recording Secretary.
Allen Hitchcock, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.
Minutes:
The minutes from the June 18, 2013 meeting were signed, with no corrections.
Town Managers Report:
J. Haverstock reported the following:
· Welcome to Clarence Greeno who is filling the seat vacated by John Lapre.
Public Comment:
None presented at this time.
Water
Status of Property Damage Claim from 2010 – 2011 Water Project;
J. Haverstock reported that Vicki Dodge resides in a trailer on property owned by Dave Buzzell. A meter was installed in August 2010, at which time the plumber noted a pressure of 68 psi and did not install a pressure reducing valve. MBS was aware of the upcoming change to the Town water system. Mark Youngstrom had performed pressure calculations and noted the pressure exceeding 120 psi at this location. Ms. Dodge has indicated damage to fixtures, floors, and other internal damage at the mobile home. MBS has noted that the warranty period has passed. J. Haverstock has filed a claim with VLCT. VLCT has acknowledged receipt of the claim and more information is expected in the near future. Bruce Babcock confirmed high pressure at the residence and installed a pressure reducing valve. Ms. Dodge and J. Haverstock have only exchanged messages thus far, due to Ms. Dodge’s work schedule.
Ball Valve Update:
J. Haverstock reported that MBS and AY MacDonald are debating responsibility for the valve failures that have occurred. J. Haverstock reported that one of the replacement valves has also failed. Mark Youngstrom is looking to MBS for answers.
C. Greeno indicated that he replaced his own failed valve and was not contacted by MBS to arrange for them to replace the valve. J. Haverstock asked that C. Greeno bring the valve to the Town Office, if the failed valve is still in his possession. A. Hitchcock inquired if there are other states that are having the same type of failure issues. J. Haverstock explained that the California law is for any valve over 4” be lead free. However, Vermont went one step further and required that all valves be lead free. Mark one Youngstrom has reported that Putney, VT has also experienced failures. D. Pearson inquired about stainless steel or brass pricing.
Update on Water System Expansion Project:
J. Haverstock reported that all boring and pipe laying is complete. The connection between the Fire District and the Country Club is complete. Otter Creek Engineering is finishing in the area and restoration of the properties will be completed in the next few weeks. The Country Club will be supplied by the Fire District for a short time due to a delay in delivery of parts necessary for the pump house. The State has been contacted with regard to this plan and is in agreement.
There will be a meeting on July 24 at 10:00 AM with Todd Blow (from Proctor Water), J. Haverstock, Select Board Chairman Pelkey, Commissioner Pearson, Bruce Babcock, and Otter Creek engineering to coordinate with Proctor about the Corn Hill Road customers.
Update on Well-Drilling Loan Fund:
J. Haverstock reported that there have been no additional loan closings since the last meeting. A draft letter was included in the packets for review to be sent to the residents that will be abandoned by Proctor in the future. J. Haverstock reported that one borrower has approached looking for additional funds. J. Haverstock recommended denying any requests for additional funds. The Commissioners were in agreement to denying any requests for additional funds.
Sewer:
Update on Project Status and Related Engineering Work:
J. Haverstock reported that there is approximately $10,000 in the grant funds remaining, with approximately half of the money for the State Inflow and Infiltration Study, which is due at the end of the year. The remaining funds will be spent on items needed at the Wastewater Treatment Facility, which Shawn Hendee and Bob Berardo have identified as needing. Mike Smith has spoken with Jim Plouffe, who agrees to these expenses.
The various outstanding projects with Weston & Sampson were discussed and an e-mail communication has been sent to Mr. Smith expressing the urgent need for progress on these matters.
Other:
The utility bills went out recently. The water revenues appear to be “on target”. However, the sewer billings for the year appear to be approximately $40,000 short. Mark Youngstrom has recommended adjusting the billings. A. Hitchcock recommends waiting one more billing cycle to see if anything changes. J. Haverstock will check with the external auditors to see if they have any recommendations.
J. Haverstock reported that the OVUHS agreement has been finalized.
J. Haverstock reported that the State Academy sewer allocation settlement funds have been received.
Executive Session:
None necessary at this time.
Adjournment
The Commission adjourned at 7:18 PM.
The next regular meeting will be held on August 20, 2013.
Respectfully Submitted,
Kelly Giard, Recording Secretary
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Allen Hitchcock, Chair
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Clarence Greeno
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Helen McKinlay
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Bob Harnish
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David Pearson