DPW Director Tim Barber told the Planning Board a recent flow-and-loading study shows the wastewater plant’s permitted discharge (4.2 million gpd) would be pushed beyond 80% average by a group of upcoming developments, raising the prospect of state-ordered or town-imposed moratoria and substantial capital upgrades.

The Dartmouth Board of Public Works approved a 7.5% water rate increase and a 16% sewer rate increase, both effective 07/01/2026, citing higher purchased-water costs from New Bedford, a new biosolids disposal expense and multimillion‑dollar capital needs.

The board approved a $97,400 construction‑administration amendment with Weston & Sampson, an $18,200 USGS river‑level monitoring agreement, a sewer pump‑station SCADA design contract (amounts reported inconsistently in the record), licensed Danella Line Services and rejected bituminous bids to re‑advertise; a $627,200 CWMP proposal from Ty and Bond was tabled pending an independent fee estimate.

After a detailed presentation on FY27 forecasts showing proposed 7.5% water and about 15% sewer increases, the Board of Public Works voted to table final action and hold a joint meeting with the Select Board on July 13 to review supporting analyses and outreach materials.