The Wastewater Study Committee of Southborough, Massachusetts convened on March 20, 2025, to discuss critical aspects of the town's wastewater management strategy. The meeting focused on the financial viability of wastewater projects, land ownership issues, and potential collaborations with local developers.

The committee began by addressing the nature of the wastewater project, noting that it is not heavily contaminated and does not require extensive remediation. This sets the stage for a business plan that emphasizes the importance of understanding disposal capacity. Committee members highlighted that without a clear grasp of this capacity, planning becomes challenging.

A significant point of discussion was the impact of user charges on customer attitudes. It was emphasized that user charges must be manageable; otherwise, the project risks becoming unaffordable. The committee stressed the necessity of securing outside funding to alleviate the burden of capital costs on users. Positive cash flow was identified as essential for project viability, leading to a call for innovative financing mechanisms and grants.

The committee also noted that the town owns limited land, which complicates the establishment of a wastewater facility. Property owners along Route 9 were identified as key stakeholders, and preliminary discussions with several developers yielded positive feedback regarding the potential for higher density and value in the area. The committee acknowledged the need for collaboration with these developers to ensure the project's success.

Additionally, the presence of vacant buildings in the town was discussed, with members attributing this to the impacts of COVID-19. The committee proposed conducting a marketing study to optimize existing resources and engage developers in interactive planning.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of financial planning, stakeholder engagement, and strategic marketing in advancing Southborough's wastewater management initiatives. The committee plans to pursue further discussions with developers and explore funding opportunities to ensure the project's feasibility and success.