During a recent Finance Committee meeting in Millis, Massachusetts, significant discussions centered around the funding and construction of a new PFAS treatment plant, as well as the implications of population growth on municipal services. The meeting highlighted the town's proactive approach to securing funding for essential water infrastructure projects.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) reported that it has successfully secured $7.1 million in funding for the new PFAS treatment plant at Well Number 3. This funding includes a $3.5 million federal grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and a $3.6 million 0% interest loan from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). Additionally, a $100,000 grant from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was recently awarded to support the construction. The DPW emphasized the importance of these funds, noting that they will cover the entire project cost, although the town will still be responsible for repaying the loan amount.

The discussions also touched on the broader implications of reaching a population threshold of 10,000 residents. Committee members noted that exceeding this number could unlock additional grant funding for the town. However, it was clarified that while some departments may benefit from this increase, the DPW would face heightened reporting and testing requirements, which could complicate operations.

In addition to water infrastructure, the committee addressed the town's sewer system and its compliance with new regulations. Millis is now required to submit its own sewer permit to MassDEP, a shift from previous arrangements where the Charles River Pollution District managed permits for multiple towns. This change necessitates that Millis demonstrate efforts to reduce excess water infiltration into the sewer system, which could lead to penalties if not addressed.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the budgetary implications of these projects and the need for a comprehensive rate study for water and stormwater services, the first of its kind in over 15 years. The DPW is seeking $20,000 to conduct this study, which aims to better align rates with the costs of providing these essential services.

Overall, the Finance Committee's discussions underscored the town's commitment to improving its water and sewer infrastructure while navigating the complexities of funding and regulatory compliance. As construction on the PFAS treatment plant begins, the town is poised to address both current and future challenges related to its growing population and environmental responsibilities.