Montpelier Schedules Smoke Testing in 3–4 Weeks to Diagnose Sewer Problems

From the Montpelier Board of Works & Safety meeting on July 15, 2026

Water Superintendent Chase Perry announced that smoke testing on the northwest end of town will begin in approximately three to four weeks. The testing will cover the stretch from Green Street south, focusing on an area where sewer and stormwater separation issues have persisted for decades.

A former Cooley employee who previously conducted smoke testing will perform the work. Perry said he wants to "lay eyes on the stuff" rather than rely on incomplete records, since Cooley "exchanged hands numerous times" and testing records were lost. The ground needs to be as dry as possible for accurate results.

A resident identified as Gary West raised concerns about ongoing sewer backup problems on South Main Street in the Standard Oil area. He noted that smoke testing has been done at least twice before, and a car wash connection issue was found during one round but may never have been fixed. Perry said backflow preventers are being considered for three affected houses, and additional problem spots will be tested after the initial run.

Residents within a couple blocks of the testing area will be notified door-to-door, as smoke may enter houses through sewer connections.

Source: YouTube transcript — Montpelier - Board of Works & Safety - July 15, 2026

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.