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Important News from the Shaftsbury Water Department

Posted: July 17th, 2026

The Shaftsbury Water Department has been working diligently to strengthen our community’s water system and prepare it for the future. We are pleased to share several important updates with you. Together, these improvements will help ensure that our downtown water system remains safe, reliable, and sustainable for the our residents and businesses it serves.

Water Allocation Finalized
We are pleased to announce that the Shaftsbury Water Department has finalized a water allocation agreement with the North Bennington Water Department. We now have secured an allocation of 75,000 gallons per day (GPD). This agreement ensures full compliance with the Vermont State Drinking Water Division and provides the necessary capacity to expand small local projects that were previously restricted.

Infrastructure Funding & Pipe Replacement
We have successfully secured funding through the Vermont Bond Bank for Phase 1 of our Water Pipe Replacement Project. This essential infrastructure upgrade will include:

• The safe removal and disposal of aging asbestos-cement (AC) pipes.
• The installation of brand-new water mains.
• The replacement of specific service line sections.
• Improved tracking system to help account for and reduce lost water.

Hydrant Flushing Program
The Water Department is currently developing a comprehensive hydrant flushing program. This initiative will strongly target the ends of streets and outer boundaries of the system to maintain optimal water quality. A finalized schedule and strategic plan will be shared with the community as soon as it is completed.

Important Updates to Metering and Billing Structures
Please be advised of upcoming adjustments to our billing schedule and rate structures designed to maintain a sustainable water system:

• Quarterly Meter Readings: Water meters will now be read four times a year instead of twice a year. Readings will take place every January, April, July, and October.

• New Billing Structure: Working alongside a state-funded agency, we have adopted a new rate and billing structure to ensure long-term system sustainability and reliable operations.


Posted/Author: Josh Brace, Water Superintendent

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