Douglas Planning Board Moves Toward Fire Cistern Rules for New Subdivisions

DOUGLAS -- May 13, 2026, Douglas Planning Board moves toward fire cistern regulations for subdivisions lacking hydrant access. Deputy Chief Kelly of the Douglas Fire Department told the board Wednesday that roughly 72 percent of Douglas has no municipal hydrant coverage, prompting a push to add cistern requirements to the town's subdivision rules and regulations for new developments located 1,000 feet or more from a municipal water supply. A typical underground cistern costs approximately $30,000, and the board discussed models from Mendon, which collects a $5,000 developer deposit for fire-department maintenance, and Holden, which uses a returnable developer bond. Board members expressed skepticism about relying on homeowners associations for long-term upkeep, favoring a town-ownership model similar to how Douglas handles detention ponds. Staff and the fire department were directed to begin drafting language for the May 27 meeting. Separately, the board signaled it will vote May 27 on whether to initiate the process of taking a $24,000 cash bond to complete unfinished roadwork and rear-property access at the Witten Reservoir Estates subdivision.