An interesting proposal before the Town of Freetown is a request for $5 million to implement a water line from the New Bedford Pump Station down Braley Road, then to Chace Road in Freetown. This line would become the central water supply to the police station, the Council On Aging and hundreds of acres along the way. It would replace wells currently in use. An engineering examination of these wells stated the wells are not compromised and are able to deliver more than adequate water to the town buildings – including the proposed new Police Station Facility.

In addition to the pipeline would come the need to purchase the water from the City of New Bedford’s municipal water supply.

While ensuring a safe water supply for all is critical to the future of our town, the intent behind the multi-million dollar request is unclear. Engineers have declared the existing aquifers more than adequate to deliver any necessary water requirements, with a nominal upgrade. This, of course, would be based on existing 1 ¾ acre minimum lot sizes. Should the future hold high rise apartment buildings, higher density population developments and all of the associated trappings, perhaps there is a need. As it stands now, this $5 million dollar project simply appears unnecessary and wasteful of limited town funds.

If there is more to the project, let’s ensure it is all put out for reasonable consideration in light of overall town needs.

Quick facts to consider:

* Cost: $5 Million plus interest for bonding;

* Total Cost for ALL Real Estate, Residential and Business alike, before interest payment on any bonding will be approximately 25% of current tax bill;

* Cost to upgrade current well system instead of the $5Million water line: 1.25% of current tax bill with the elimination of added water bill.

* If this project is to benefit our regional school, the cost to Lakeville should be assessed.

 

Carol Woldorf

Finance Committee, Freetown