ORANGE — The town is staring down the headlights of an oncoming multi-million dollar upgrade to the aging sewer plant, along with associated sewer rate increases.
Consultant David Prickett told the Board of Selectmen last week that they are looking at a $20 million upgrade to the plant, which may be broken into three phases.
Anthony DeSimone of engineering firm Weston & Sampson said the Department of Agriculture is interested in funding 45 to 55 percent of the project. Prickett said that grant funding is critical to the project, and to qualify, the town will have to at least double sewer rates so that the plant is no longer considered underfunded.
The current average residential sewer cost is $380, compared to over $700 statewide, he said.
DeSimone said the upgrade would include a new roof, windows, heating and an ultraviolet system to replace chemical disinfectants.
Ed Billiel, chief water pollution control facility operator, said the plant dates to 1977 and needs a thorough upgrade to last another 40 years.
Selectmen briefly discussed the question of what share residents not connected to the sewer system might be asked to pay, on the argument that commerce and development benefit all, and there would be none without a sewer system.
Selectmen will continue the discussion in their dual roles as selectmen and water commissioners.
DeSimone said the design portion could begin in July and construction in 2018.
You can reach Chris Curtis at:
ccurtis@recorder.com