Pembroke is moving forward with a massive 20-year overhaul of its water infrastructure, a plan that prioritizes the removal of hazardous piping and a significant boost to the town’s supply capacity. Representatives from Apex Engineering presented the Water System Master Plan to the Select Board on Wednesday, revealing that the town is targeting the replacement of vinyl-lined asbestos cement (Vlac) pipes. These pipes, discontinued in 1980, have been found to leak PCE, a known carcinogen. Senior Project Engineer John Hiddy told the board, The master plan is an effective and efficient management tool. It serves as a roadmap for implementing water supply, storage, and distribution system improvements. The town’s system currently serves over 18,000 citizens through more than 6,300 connections.

A major focus of the presentation was addressing the town’s recurring water bans, which Member Daniel Trabucco noted are often a point of frustration for residents. Every year there is a water ban, and some residents believe the system is inadequate, Trabucco said. Can you explain why that water ban exists and who demands it? Apex Division Manager Lauren Underwood clarified that the bans are federal and state mandates linked to the Water Management Act and are not unique to Pembroke’s system capacity. This isn't something to do with Pembroke specifically; it's a federal level implementation on us to conserve water for the next generation, Underwood explained, noting that the region is currently in a significant drought. Despite these restrictions, the plan outlines a path to increase supply capacity from 2.33 million gallons per day to 4.06 million gallons per day as the Swanberg well comes online.

The financial weight of these improvements loomed over the discussion. Chair Tracy Marino asked point-blank, Can we afford this? Town Manager Bill Chenard acknowledged the necessity of the work, stating, The answer is, do we have a choice? They have done a good job in balancing this out over several years. We will take a look at the cost structure, water rates, and our borrowing capacity and have an answer in the near future. This infrastructure stress comes as Pembroke manages several large-scale projects, including an ongoing $8 million water overhaul and a $61 million public safety building.

The meeting also addressed a sensitive legal matter involving allegations of retaliation. Attorney Jenkins informed the board that several town employees felt retaliated against following public comments made by resident Patrick Chart regarding a gender discrimination investigation. However, Jenkins advised that a recent Supreme Judicial Court ruling in Barrett v. Kenda prevents the board from restricting such speech. The board cannot place restrictions on statements made during public comment. While civility can be encouraged, it cannot be required, Jenkins said. Patrick Chart defended his previous comments, calling the allegations a smoke screen to divert from my grievance made before this board. He added, I have never seen a private citizen called before a governing body in executive session to address an allegation the board has no standing to hear. Following the legal advice, Motion Made by J. Brown that the board take no action in the matter. Motion Passed 5-0.

In his report, Town Manager Chenard updated the board on a massive $126 million MassDOT project to replace the bridge over the North River on Route 3. While at least one lane will remain open during the multi-year construction process, Chenard warned that traffic will be restricted. He also announced that the town’s new website and a transition to .gov email addresses are expected to go live in early March. Regarding land use, the board addressed concerns about the Plain Street 40B project. Member Daniel Trabucco clarified that even if the current owners sell the property, the friendly 40B permit remains with the land. The deal remains in the best interest of the town, Trabucco noted.

Other business included a slate of warrant article recommendations for the upcoming Town Meeting. Motion Made by D. Trabucco to move favorable action for Articles 6, 7, 8, 15, and 16. Motion Passed 5-0. These articles cover trust fund transfers for OPEB and capital stabilization, Community Preservation Fund allocations, and revolving fund limits. Member Sean Keegan also highlighted the success of the new Community Center, noting that Senior Services now sees nearly 120 participants daily. There is tons of programming happening, from pedicures to reflexology, Keegan said. Chair Marino added a call for student volunteers to assist the Council on Aging with snow shoveling, noting a current shortage of help for local seniors.