Voters in the city of Eastham, Massachusetts voters have approved Phase 1 of a $170 million Targeted Watershed Management Plan following a meeting earlier this week, the Cape Cod Times reported. 

The plan encompasses the establishment of a wastewater treatment facility, as well as systems for collection, conveyance, effluent disposal, pumping stations, and associated equipment, along with design, engineering, and incidental costs. This initiative will connect sewer services to 786 properties surrounding Salt Pond and extending along Route 6 to the T-Time property in town.

Projected property tax increases are estimated to be around $1,000 annually, as indicated in the special town meeting warrant.

Mary Shaw, Chair of the Finance Committee, addressed attendees on June 23, acknowledging the financial implications, but emphasized a commitment to minimizing costs. She explained that revenues from short-term rentals and a wastewater stabilization fund worth several million dollars will support the wastewater program. The Finance Committee has been collaborating with town staff on a capital improvement plan to align the timing of wastewater debt with the retirement of water debt. The Finance Committee expressed unanimous support for the proposal.

According to Town Manager Jacqueline Beebe, construction is set to begin in the fall of 2026 and will take approximately three years to complete, with expectations for readiness by winter 2029. The aim of the plan is to eliminate nearly 100% of nitrogen affecting the Salt Pond watershed.