Water & Sewer District ยท Meeting
Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Discussed
Well exploration and development funding
At the Jan. 13, 2026 meeting, a state Department of Environmental Services (DES) fund manager said $1.4 million is available from the State Revolving Fund (SRF, a state loan program) for Pfas fixes (Pfas are chemicals that can pollute water). The minutes say $1 million of it is forgiven (does not have to be repaid), plus 10% of a $400,000 forgiveness amount. Another $926,000 is available to the District for finding and developing a new water source, at an interest rate of 4.1% plus 1% during construction.
Retain municipal water attorney
The commission talked about why it should hire an attorney with experience in municipal water and wastewater work. The District's engineer suggested Keriianne Roman of Drummond and Woodson. The minutes record no decision to hire.
Interconnection with Newmarket and regional options
The commission discussed linking the District's water system to the Town of Newmarket's, estimated at $6 million. It also discussed a wider regional connection and what federal funding might be available. The minutes record no decision.
Hold bond hearing for $1.4M SRF loan
A next step listed in the minutes is to hold a bond hearing (a public hearing on borrowing) for the $1.4 million SRF loan. No date is given.
Warrant article for new source funding
Another next step is to write a warrant article (a question for voters). It was suggested to word it broadly enough to cover other cost-effective options such as a connection to another system, and to raise the amount as far as possible in case a better business case appears. The minutes mention $2.4 million and a 20% contingency, with a question mark. The minutes say authority to spend the money comes first. Documents are due to NH DES in May, and Governor and Council approval takes 3 to 4 months. Money can be spent earlier at the District's own risk, but it cannot be spent on construction consultants or preliminary design.
Additional $65,000 Pfas settlement funds
The minutes say another $65,000 is available to the District from settlement money for Pfas. The meeting ended at 2:30 without objection.