In response to tightening federal water quality standards, Duxbury voters approved Article 19, authorizing $1.6 million for the design and engineering of PFAS treatment facilities. The funding will target the Depot Street and Tremont Street wells, which require remediation to meet a 2031 federal compliance deadline for forever chemicals.

Consultant Brian Weiner of Tighe & Bond explained that while the project is primarily driven by PFAS removal, the new systems will also address long-standing issues with iron and manganese in the water supply. Water and Sewer Superintendent Mark Cloud clarified that because Duxbury uses a combined system, the benefits will be town-wide. No one gets one specific well pumped to their house, Cloud said. We are building treatment at these wells so we can take the Lakeshore Drive well offline.

The $1.6 million will be funded through water retained earnings. This design phase is the first step in a massive infrastructure undertaking, with total remediation costs for the town previously estimated to reach as high as $100 million in the coming years. The article passed with overwhelming support.

Motion: I move that the town approve Article 19.

Vote: Passed 141-3