Town Commissioners — 2022-09-13

This summarizes the Queenstown Commissioners regular meeting on September 13, 2022. Town engineer Robert Rauch presented a preferred water system alternative (seek bids on the USDA water systems improvements project and request additional USDA funding) and several alternatives for phased service and capacity upgrades, including proposed well tests (~$10,000 per drawdown test), increased pump capacity, and a storage plan totaling 225,000 gallons; Commissioners decided to put the new water tower project out for bid to get updated construction costs. Public Works reported a large hole in the SHA right-of-way where an underground stormwater pipe needs replacement (pipe delivered; repair work to be put out to bid) and that treatment membranes were inspected and in good shape. The Planning Commission recommended amending the “home occupation” definition to allow additional uses such as a barbershop on Old Wharf Lane provided parking concerns are addressed, and an ordinance will be drafted for the next meeting. The Harbormaster position remains vacant and Commissioners discussed appointing the Code Enforcement Officer to the compensated Harbormaster role. Town financial balances were reported (General Fund $127,185.10; Water/Sewer Fund $169,821.55; ARPA $685,273.51); the August 24 minutes were tabled. Other items: personnel manual amendment for prorated leave was presented, a request to change 7109 Main St. land use from Residential to Commercial/Residential was raised, Rauch will begin charging $99/month for SmartSite, code enforcement reported vehicle and grass violations, staff will apply for T‑Mobile Hometown Grants, and Old Wharf Lane stormwater and boat ramp improvements remain on the ongoing project list.