NEW GLOUCESTER — Tests are being done on wells at the former fairgrounds to see if they have sufficient clean water to supply residents, businesses and the school in Upper Gloucester village, Town Planner Paul First said Thursday.

After reviewing the results, planners will determine if a local water system is warranted or if hooking into the Auburn Water District supply is preferred. Connecting to a system would be voluntary on the part of the 90 households, Memorial School and business establishments along Route 100 in the village, he said.

The investigation into a clean, reliable water supply was prompted after area wells were contaminated in the 1980s by gasoline and salt leaking from storage facilities in the 1980s.

First said Drumlin Engineering is completing testing on the wells located on 32 acres of town property on Bald Hill Road. The town and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection are funding the $58,000 study.

“There have been a few holdups due to technical challenges,” he said. “It would be nice if it went faster, but in reality you are at the mercy of Mother Nature and what’s available.”

First said a survey has been mailed to 90 households to determine if the area is eligible for Community Development Block Grant funding, based on income. Residents are urged to return the survey forms immediately, or call First at the 926-4126, ext. 4, or Ellie Fellers at 926-4776.