Harwich Water & Wastewater Department

Present: Chairman Donald T. Bates, Jr., Clerk George Cavanaugh, Superintendent Craig Wiegand, Secretary Carol M. Connor

Meeting called to order at 8:15 AM by Chairman Bates.

George Cavanaugh made a motion to approve the minutes of 10/05/04 as written. Donald Bates seconded. Unanimous vote to approve.

Abatements approved and signed for services #1719, #1810, and #1849.

Wes Gardner attended meeting to explain his calculations for fire protection figures. Hydrant expenses have to be figured into the water rates. Expense figures work out to be approximately $345.00 per hydrant for maintenance and infrastructure costs. An increase in base rate of $5.00 would generate a revenue increase and would not be affected by the weather (rainy season). This would also cover depreciation costs. Any increases in wages each year, and other expenses such as gasoline and heating costs will dictate an increase in charges some years, and base rate other years. Our rates are not governed by proposition 2-1/2 per Mr. Cavanaugh.

Update given by Superintendent Wiegand on the new tank construction. Foundation permit was obtained and steel rods are being set. Concrete should be poured next week.

Budget draft submitted to Commissioners for their review.

Seasonal employees. Where is the draw coming from? Only a certain number of hours can be worked without paying benefits. What months? Should it be for 3 months or 6 months? These questions need to be worked out before a plan can be put in place.

Another discussion regarding the claim for abatement from B. G. Sykes. The meter has been removed and sent for testing. The Board will wait for the results before making a decision. The usage on the new meter also needs to be monitored. A suggestion was made to do this on a monthly basis for the time being. Install radio read also.

Meeting adjourned at 9:25 AM.

Donald T. Bates, Jr., Chairman
Danette Gonsalves, Vice Chairman
George Cavanaugh, Clerk
Craig Wiegand, Superintendent
Carol M. Connor, Secretary