The Cohasset Sewer Commission is preparing to close a critical gap in the town’s infrastructure at Cunningham Bridge, moving forward with plans for a 500-foot sewer extension that could cost up to $250,000. DPW Director Brian Joyce provided the board with a preliminary roadmap for the project, which involves connecting a 4-inch pipe from the bridge to an existing main on the beach side. Joyce warned that the work would likely take four to six weeks to complete, noting that it depends how much ledge we got out there.

The financial logistics of the bridge connection remain a primary focus for the board. Joyce estimated the construction costs at $250 to $500 per linear foot, explaining that we've been experiencing like $500 a foot on water, and that might be light due to the requirements for flowable fill and restoration. Despite the high price tag, the project may not require a specific warrant article at Town Meeting. Joyce indicated that the department is looking to fund the work through the existing operating budget, stating that if you have the wiggle room, you don't need to go to town meeting. Member Dan Coughlin, who reviewed technical specifications for the site, raised concerns about the durability of the existing infrastructure, noting that the pipe that ended up being put in I think is a lower pressure rating than what we usually do.

In a significant step toward finalizing long-standing developments, the board formally integrated the sewer lines for properties at 380, 390, and 400 Chief Justice Cushing Highway into the public system. Member Paul Kierce reported that the one-year escrow period for the CJC development had concluded without issue. Motion Made by P. Kierce to accept the sewer line as part of the town's public sewer system. Motion Passed (4-0). Following this, the commission moved to return the remaining security to the developer. Motion Made by P. Kierce to release the escrow funds and send those to CJC Realty. Motion Passed (4-0).

The board also addressed the administrative oversight of the CJC properties, deciding to ease the reporting requirements now that the systems are fully operational and septic units have been decommissioned. Motion Made by P. Kierce to suspend mandatory quarterly reporting from the owners unless requested by the board. Motion Passed (4-0). Member Charlotte Pepto joined the rest of the board in the unanimous roll-call votes to finalize these agreements.

Transparency regarding repair costs sparked a debate over how to present the FR Mahoney price list on the town website. While the board wants residents to understand the costs associated with sewer pump troubleshooting, they expressed concern that direct contact with the vendor could bypass municipal protocols. I don't think we want them going directly to FR Mahoney because I don't think FR Mahoney would like that, Chairman Bill McGawan said. I think it would be good just from people getting an idea of what the number is. Paul Kierce suggested a compromise, noting that maybe we should put something on our website before we post it that you know to call the town first.

Plant Operator Scott informed the commission that the facility is currently processing approximately 240,000 gallons per day, though rain-driven inflow and infiltration (I&I) continue to stress the system. We have no real way to quantify what's I&I, Scott explained, adding that he had observed pump speeds increasing during recent weather events. To improve data accuracy, Joyce reported that the town has received a quote for repairing and replacing malfunctioning meters at the plant and at the end of Jerusalem Road. The board plans to discuss the tactics and contracting strategy for larger facility upgrades in a future executive session to protect the town’s negotiating position.

Finally, the board confirmed that the recent demolition of the Atlantica building did not compromise the municipal system. Staff member Sean explained that the demolition was part of a phased permit process, and Dan Coughlin confirmed that all necessary lines were capped to prevent debris from entering the sewer mains. The commission tentatively scheduled its next meeting for April 29, just ahead of the May 4 Town Meeting.