The Public Facilities Committee of Newton City convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss the ongoing rehabilitation project of the Volus Pond Dam. Councilor Alday, representing the committee, initiated the meeting by requesting an update on the planning and construction efforts related to the dam, which has been under scrutiny since the state declared it to be in poor condition seven years ago.

The meeting featured presentations from key figures in dam safety, including Bill Saloma, the state director of the Office of Dam Safety, and engineers from GEI, including Lou Taverna, a former city engineer. Taverna emphasized the importance of addressing the dam's deficiencies, which have been highlighted by state safety officials. He noted that the project is crucial due to the significant hazard posed by the dam, which requires immediate attention.

A major concern raised during the discussions was the impact of the rehabilitation project on the local environment, particularly the removal of trees around the dam. This issue has been a point of contention for residents, as many are worried about the loss of greenery and its effect on the neighborhood's aesthetics.

The committee plans to continue engaging with state officials and consultants to ensure that the project meets safety standards while addressing community concerns. The next steps will involve further discussions on the preferred safety design and the project's timeline, as the city aims to resolve the dam's safety issues effectively.