MINUTES

BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING

Friday, July 9, 2010

6:30 p.m.

EMERGENCY MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING

The meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held at 6:30 pm in the Sharon Town Hall with Chairman Walter “Joe” Roach, Selectman Richard A. Powell and Selectman William A. Heitin and Town Administrator Benjamin Puritz.

UNATTENDED IRRIGATION USE BAN

In attendance: Department of Works Superintendent Eric Hooper, Water Supervisor David Masciarelli

The BOS reviewed memorandum from Superintendent Hooper titled "Unattended Irrigation Use Ban".  Superintendent Hooper stated that the pumps cannot maintain water tank level due to high water use and suspected leak in system.  He said that there has generally been a high level of compliance with the in-place odd/even day watering regulations with few citations issued.  However, last night (Thursday July 8th) a low water alarm was triggered at the Hampton Road tank and at 7:30 pm the tank was near empty. It was explained that all of the Town’s wells are on line.  Extensive water system leak testing is underway including using acoustical listening devices, inspecting manholes/water gates and valves and directional flow tests.  Additional assistance is being sought from the Town of Easton's Water Department and is expected to be provided next week.  The Board discussed the priority of providing sufficient pressure in the system for firefighting purposes.

In view of all the above factors the Board took the following vote.

VOTED: (Heitin/Powell) Voted unanimously to accept Superintendent Hooper's recommendation, effective immediately and for an indefinite period to prohibit the use of unattended irrigation systems, including individual sprinklers.  Hand held hose use only is permissible. 

The Board of Selectmen also requested that notification of its emergency action be provided as quickly as possible via SCTV, Town's website, notice to Sharon Advocate and use of seasonal staff to leaflet the Town with informational fliers beginning Monday.  As circumstances warrant the Board may reconsider, modify or rescind this emergency order.  Selectmen Heitin indicated he had been in contact with Water Management Advisory Committee Chair David Crosby and would further apprise him concerning this matter and that in turn David Crosby will be advising the Water Management Advisory Committee of the latest information and actions taken by the Board of Selectmen

VOTED: (Heitin/Powell) Voted unanimously to adjourn for the evening.

The Board adjourned at 6:49 p.m.

Roach:    Aye

Powell:  Aye

Heitin:   Aye