In a recent Finance Committee meeting held on April 30, 2025, the Town of Danvers reviewed its budget for fiscal year 2026, focusing on critical water supply infrastructure and emergency preparedness. The discussions highlighted the town's ongoing efforts to enhance its water supply system, particularly in light of increasing drought conditions and the need for reliable emergency water sources.

One of the primary topics was the collaboration with neighboring communities, specifically Beverly and Peabody, to investigate the potential for interconnections in their water systems. This initiative aims to assess how much water Danvers could potentially draw from these towns during severe droughts or emergencies. The committee discussed the importance of finalizing construction drawings and specifications for the necessary infrastructure, which includes valves and telemetry systems to facilitate these connections.

The committee members expressed concerns about the current water supply situation, emphasizing that while the interconnections are a stopgap measure, they are essential for ensuring water availability during critical times. The discussions also touched on the water quality characteristics of the supplies from Beverly and Peabody, noting that both communities have recently upgraded their treatment facilities, which could benefit Danvers if interconnections are established.

Additionally, the committee explored the possibility of alternative water sources, including the potential for desalination. While this option has been discussed within the town's resilience task force, members acknowledged the significant costs and infrastructure changes required for such a solution.

The meeting concluded with a vote to approve a $300,000 appropriation for internal components necessary for the water system upgrades. This funding is aimed at enhancing the town's water supply reliability and ensuring that Danvers can effectively manage its water resources in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.

Overall, the Finance Committee's discussions underscore the town's proactive approach to water management and its commitment to safeguarding the community's water supply against future uncertainties. As Danvers moves forward with these initiatives, the implications for public health and safety remain a top priority.