The wind speed meter for the Fountain in Fountain Park has been set to shut the fountain off at winds speeds of 6 mph, differing from the normal 10 mph.

This adjustment has been noticed by residents and visitors who are finding it harder to see the fountain in operation.

Town Interim Community Services Director Rachael Goodwin said the change was implemented due to the gusty winds that cause the water plume to blow outside of the boundaries of the lake.

“Any water that travels outside of the boundaries of the lake is a violation of the town’s effluent water permit,” Goodwin said.

Sanitary District officials have reported complaints about the overspray on vehicles, according to Goodwin.

“As part of those reports, we have been reminded that any overspray is in violation of our permit and we must take corrective action right away,” she said.

The wind speed meter will remain at the 6 mph sensitivity until the season’s windy conditions have ended.

Mayor Linda Kavanagh has been a strong supporter of allowing the fountain to run as often as possible, and she is unhappy with the situation.

“Due to a few complaints about occasional overspray from the fountain from nearby residents, the wind gauge was reduced to 6 mph,” Kavanagh said. “This may in fact severely reduce the number of times that our fountain will come on, depriving residents and visitors the pleasure of seeing it. The town has tried to reach a compromise wind speed but with unpredictable gusts, it’s almost impossible to ensure compliance 100 percent of the time.

“I’m very disappointed that it was necessary to take this drastic step to avoid state fines.”

The wind gauge that controls the fountain is located at the pump house near the Veterans Memorial. It can be seen sitting fairly high above the building.

Wind speeds are measured there and not on the park lawn.

Goodwin said staff is conducting research on a more effective long-term solution that will allow the fountain to run at a reduced height during gusty winds.