Douglas Water Commission to Pursue Synagro Biosolids Deal, Orders Cost Analysis

DOUGLAS — October 14, 2025 — Douglas Water Sewer Commission opens path to Synagro biosolids deal while flagging rising disposal costs. The three-member commission — Chair Phil Stitchfield, Systems Manager Bob Sullivan, and Commissioner Kyle LaHouse — agreed at its October 14 meeting to submit an application to Synagro and conduct a formal cost analysis before committing to a long-term disposal contract, with the central sticking point being a 4 percent minimum solids-content threshold that could trigger higher septic-rate billing if not met. Sullivan, who described biosolids disposal as the department's single largest operating expense, argued that building on-site thickening infrastructure to meet the threshold would require significant capital outlay for a building, electrical systems, and chemicals — with paid disposal costs remaining regardless. The commission also confirmed that lifting the town's 2001 irrigation ban requires a town meeting bylaw vote, not an internal policy change, and agreed to prioritize the Synagro work first. The November regular meeting was rescheduled from Veterans Day, November 11, to November 18 at 8 a.m.