Town Meeting Appropriates $100,000 from Water Surplus for System Repairs
Key Points
- Appropriates $100,000 for water pipe and meter repairs
- Funds drawn from existing Water Surplus
- Selectmen highlighted the need to address a 350-year pipe replacement cycle
- Discussion included the possibility of future enterprise account status
Under Article 21, Town Meeting voted to appropriate $100,000 from the Water Surplus account to fund critical improvements to the town's water system. The funds will be directed toward replacing aging water meters and repairing leaky pipes within Milton's 130-mile network of water lines.
The Chair of the Board of Selectmen emphasized the need for increased capital investment, noting that the system is valued at $30 million. He pointed out that the previous year's expenditure of only $85,000 was insufficient for long-term maintenance. At that rate, we expect a 350-year pipe life, which is unrealistic,
he told the meeting. While some members suggested moving to a statutory enterprise account for water and sewer, the Board of Selectmen noted that current accounting practices already ensure that water money only goes to water.
Motion: To appropriate $100,000 from water surplus for system repairs.
Vote: Passed