The Hingham Board of Water Commissioners directed more than $636,000 towards major water quality projects and urgent fleet upgrades during its July 29 meeting, tackling issues from future PFAS regulations to the immediate danger of failing vehicles.

In a proactive move to address future drinking water standards, the board committed $180,940 for a comprehensive study of the water treatment plant. The evaluation by Apex Companies LLC will assess the plant’s capacity and explore options for treating PFAS contaminants to meet stricter EPA guidelines required by 2031. Water Superintendent Russ Tierney emphasized the forward-looking nature of the study. We want to get ahead of what we may need to do at the plant, Tierney said, noting the cost would be covered by a recent $2 million PFAS litigation settlement, not a rate increase. Commissioner Bill Ramsey supported the initiative, stating, Obviously, PFAS levels is a big concern. We've heard from our residents and the board's been asking about it for a while. Chair Liz Klein confirmed with staff that public information sessions on the study's progress will be held this fall.

The board also authorized a $248,000 project to improve current raw water quality in Accord Pond. The agreement with Hydra Dive Tech LLC will fund the installation of a new intake pipe 400 feet from the shoreline, replacing an intake discovered to be just 25 feet from shore. We found a spot 400 ft out... that has the highest quality water that we could find in the pond. And the PFAS numbers are lower, Tierney explained, adding the move will reduce treatment costs. After a brief discussion, the board endorsed the plan. A motion made by J. Staley to approve the agreement with Hydra Dive Tech LLC for the Accord Pond Pipe installation in an amount not to exceed $248,000 passed 3-0.

Commissioners also addressed the deteriorating state of the system’s vehicle fleet, spending a combined $207,195 on three new trucks. Two cargo vans were purchased to replace vehicles deemed unsafe for use. Tierney reported a 2011 Chevy van had a cracked frame and a cracked front axle, while a 2013 model had all rotted brake lines and other issues. A third purchase for a new F350 dump truck was an addition to the fleet needed to safely transport heavy materials like hydrants. The board unanimously supported all three vehicle agreements. During the discussion, Commissioner Julie Staley expressed her appreciation that the old vehicles would be sold through the town’s auction cycle.

The board’s focus on long-term infrastructure health drew praise from State Representative Joe Mossino, who was present at the meeting. He commended the commissioners for their professional and thoughtful approach to investing in the system, contrasting it with past practices of only reacting to emergencies.

In other business, Tierney reminded residents that a Level One watering ban remains in effect, limiting outdoor watering to two days per week. He also announced that the planned transition of customer service to the Hingham Municipal Lighting Plant has been postponed by one year. In response to a question from resident Karen Johnson about the Citizens Advisory Board, Tierney confirmed that he and Commissioner Staley are actively working to re-engage the group, with a meeting planned for later this month to discuss the system’s master plan and rate setting.