1 00:04:15,780 --> 00:04:55,580 Julie 2 00:05:12,840 --> 00:05:16,600 Langa from Eversource. We are requesting the approval of one fully 3 00:05:16,660 --> 00:05:20,500 owned pole, 108 over 9.5, within the 4 00:05:20,540 --> 00:05:24,140 right of way on Green Street. New pole is required to 5 00:05:24,180 --> 00:05:27,840 support the proposed secondary electric facilities and service 6 00:05:27,920 --> 00:05:31,900 configuration in this area and allow the existing backyard 7 00:05:32,000 --> 00:05:34,100 service arrangement to be reconfigured. 8 00:05:36,460 --> 00:05:36,860 Thank you. 9 00:05:37,960 --> 00:05:40,180 Do we have any questions from the board at this time? 10 00:05:42,220 --> 00:05:42,500 Thank you. 11 00:05:45,640 --> 00:05:49,160 One question I do have, just because this has come up a lot in the past. 12 00:05:49,680 --> 00:05:52,860 Will this require the removal of any trees or 13 00:05:52,980 --> 00:05:56,620 any sort of restructuring to 14 00:05:56,680 --> 00:06:00,500 the infrastructure there besides the moving of the 15 00:06:00,560 --> 00:06:00,820 pole, 16 00:06:02,380 --> 00:06:02,820 Ms. Langa? 17 00:06:11,270 --> 00:06:14,990 No, it's going to be a brand-new pole, and there will be no tree 18 00:06:15,050 --> 00:06:17,230 removal for that to be installed. 19 00:06:18,330 --> 00:06:19,630 Excellent. Okay, thank you. 20 00:06:20,450 --> 00:06:21,350 Any questions from the board? 21 00:06:22,910 --> 00:06:26,350 As this is a public hearing, do we have any questions from the public? 22 00:06:27,930 --> 00:06:30,750 If you could please step forward and just state your name and address for the 23 00:06:30,810 --> 00:06:31,170 record. 24 00:06:31,350 --> 00:06:35,030 Yes. My name is John Heavey. I live at 24 Green Street. Sorry, just one more time. 25 00:06:35,350 --> 00:06:37,650 John Heavey. I live at 24 Green Street. 26 00:06:37,810 --> 00:06:38,310 Thank you. Welcome. 27 00:06:38,320 --> 00:06:38,629 Good evening. 28 00:06:38,830 --> 00:06:40,790 I'm right across the street from where the pole's going up. 29 00:06:40,850 --> 00:06:44,590 I understand the necessity of the electrical service to 26, our next door 30 00:06:44,630 --> 00:06:48,430 neighbor. If she could just clarify, in the backyard, 31 00:06:48,710 --> 00:06:52,690 there is a pole and there are lines that run to 26, but also to 32 00:06:52,930 --> 00:06:56,850 24. So my question is, I think I saw the diagram earlier 33 00:06:56,890 --> 00:06:58,470 in the day that the lines 34 00:06:59,390 --> 00:07:03,110 from the back pole, the backyard pole, to 26 are going to be 35 00:07:03,210 --> 00:07:06,730 removed, but the ones to our property, 24, are going to remain. 36 00:07:07,170 --> 00:07:08,970 Is that clear? Do I have that right? 37 00:07:09,990 --> 00:07:10,990 Salanda, any response? 38 00:07:12,010 --> 00:07:15,790 Yes. We heard from the person for 26, so 39 00:07:15,870 --> 00:07:19,650 that's what we're going to do. If you were interested in having your 40 00:07:19,750 --> 00:07:23,590 service moved to the front of the property, I could have somebody 41 00:07:23,630 --> 00:07:24,830 get in touch with you as well. 42 00:07:26,150 --> 00:07:30,110 Okay. So in other words, if it were moved to the front, 43 00:07:30,470 --> 00:07:32,630 it would eliminate the backyard 44 00:07:33,710 --> 00:07:36,190 service that currently exists going to the back of our house? 45 00:07:38,010 --> 00:07:41,860 Yes. So what's going to happen is 26 is going to have their 46 00:07:41,890 --> 00:07:43,290 line removed from the back- 47 00:07:43,390 --> 00:07:43,400 Right 48 00:07:43,400 --> 00:07:44,690 ... of the house to the front of the house. 49 00:07:45,110 --> 00:07:48,690 If you were interested in doing the same thing, then I could have somebody contact 50 00:07:48,730 --> 00:07:49,190 you as well. 51 00:07:49,840 --> 00:07:50,790 Yes. That'd be great. Thank you. 52 00:07:51,310 --> 00:07:51,490 Okay. 53 00:07:51,530 --> 00:07:52,440 Any further questions for- 54 00:07:52,690 --> 00:07:52,970 That's it. 55 00:07:53,350 --> 00:07:56,690 Okay, thank you. Is there anyone else in the public that wishes to be recognized 56 00:07:56,710 --> 00:07:57,170 from the room? 57 00:07:59,210 --> 00:08:00,390 Is there anyone else on Zoom? 58 00:08:03,770 --> 00:08:06,930 All right. Hearing none, I will now close the public hearing at 59 00:08:07,210 --> 00:08:08,350 6:05 PM. 60 00:08:10,250 --> 00:08:14,050 I will entertain a motion to approve petition for job and work order 61 00:08:14,290 --> 00:08:18,170 number 27795573 from NStar 62 00:08:18,230 --> 00:08:21,910 Electric Company, doing business as Eversource Energy, Verizon New 63 00:08:21,990 --> 00:08:25,730 England Inc, to install one new fully owned pole to be 64 00:08:25,810 --> 00:08:29,450 labeled 108-9.5 in the right of way of Green 65 00:08:29,570 --> 00:08:32,930 Street to provide upgraded electrical service to 26 66 00:08:33,451 --> 00:08:34,150 Green Street. 67 00:08:34,970 --> 00:08:35,430 So moved. 68 00:08:35,630 --> 00:08:35,910 Second. 69 00:08:36,290 --> 00:08:39,640 Motion's been made and seconded. Do we have any further discussion on the motion? 70 00:08:40,910 --> 00:08:42,370 Hearing none, all those in favor? 71 00:08:42,831 --> 00:08:43,691 Aye. 72 00:08:43,750 --> 00:08:45,990 Any opposed? Passes unanimously. 73 00:08:47,190 --> 00:08:47,520 Thank you. 74 00:08:47,520 --> 00:08:49,070 Thank you for joining us. 75 00:08:49,390 --> 00:08:49,959 Okay. Bye bye. 76 00:08:51,350 --> 00:08:54,530 All right. Up next, I will open the meeting for public comment. 77 00:08:54,570 --> 00:08:57,830 Anyone wishing to address the board will be recognized for two minutes. 78 00:08:58,150 --> 00:09:01,550 Please clearly state your name and address for the record. 79 00:09:01,670 --> 00:09:05,590 As a reminder, the board will not engage in public comment tonight, 80 00:09:05,690 --> 00:09:09,260 but will direct you to the appropriate point of contact if 81 00:09:09,350 --> 00:09:12,410 necessary. Please, just name and address for the record. 82 00:09:14,210 --> 00:09:16,890 Okay, I'll try to talk fast. I only have two minutes. 83 00:09:17,290 --> 00:09:18,810 My name is Ray Bermude. 84 00:09:20,710 --> 00:09:22,810 Our domicile is in Springfield, Missouri, 85 00:09:24,210 --> 00:09:28,030 but my wife has owned a condo at 138 86 00:09:28,090 --> 00:09:31,090 Main Street since 2000. 87 00:09:33,470 --> 00:09:36,270 When we're not here, she rents her condo. 88 00:09:38,310 --> 00:09:41,330 The extensive and excessive noise at the 89 00:09:41,350 --> 00:09:44,830 intersection of Main and Huddleston Street 90 00:09:45,810 --> 00:09:46,690 is why I'm here. 91 00:09:47,930 --> 00:09:51,350 The vehicle exhaust noise when taking off, it interrupts 92 00:09:51,410 --> 00:09:53,590 conversations, our sleep, 93 00:09:55,910 --> 00:09:56,170 and 94 00:09:56,990 --> 00:09:59,590 at times in acquiring renters. 95 00:10:00,690 --> 00:10:04,090 So I'm here to express concerns regarding that excessive noise level, 96 00:10:04,670 --> 00:10:08,490 disturbance of the peace, violation of local and state ordinances, 97 00:10:08,520 --> 00:10:11,450 zoning bylaws, breach of quiet hours, et cetera. 98 00:10:13,030 --> 00:10:15,290 So I've done a little bit of research, 99 00:10:16,210 --> 00:10:19,280 and so the ordinance and zoning laws as I understand them, which 100 00:10:20,330 --> 00:10:23,800 here in Fairhaven, is that there are quiet hours between the hours of 9:00 101 00:10:23,830 --> 00:10:25,830 PM and 7:00 AM. 102 00:10:26,890 --> 00:10:29,190 And then a regulation was cited, 103 00:10:30,730 --> 00:10:34,210 C-310 CMR 104 00:10:34,570 --> 00:10:35,630 7.10, 105 00:10:37,670 --> 00:10:41,050 with maximum decibels of 10 dBA, whatever all that means. 106 00:10:42,990 --> 00:10:46,790 And so the law generally measures unreasonable noise 107 00:10:46,870 --> 00:10:50,090 as what a reasonable person would say is unreasonable, 108 00:10:51,390 --> 00:10:53,390 decibel levels, and the time of day. 109 00:10:54,730 --> 00:10:57,330 The Massachusetts law. So, 110 00:11:01,530 --> 00:11:05,410 the administration regulation and enforcement, as I understand it, 111 00:11:06,170 --> 00:11:09,990 is by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, 112 00:11:10,730 --> 00:11:12,220 but they defer to the local 113 00:11:13,570 --> 00:11:16,430 one that I just quoted, 310 CMR 7.10, 114 00:11:17,270 --> 00:11:21,210 has to be less than 10 decibels. I did call and talk to 115 00:11:21,410 --> 00:11:25,380 somebody at the regional office of the Environmental 116 00:11:26,150 --> 00:11:26,819 Protection 117 00:11:27,650 --> 00:11:30,450 Department, and they cited 310 118 00:11:30,510 --> 00:11:34,070 CMR 7.52, which allows local 119 00:11:34,530 --> 00:11:38,430 enforcement of the noise levels, although they have 120 00:11:38,470 --> 00:11:40,610 the jurisdiction, but they allow- 121 00:11:40,730 --> 00:11:43,450 So that is your two minutes. Are you requesting more time from the board? 122 00:11:43,850 --> 00:11:45,470 Yeah, if I could have just a couple more minutes. 123 00:11:45,670 --> 00:11:46,310 Two more minutes? 124 00:11:48,210 --> 00:11:48,870 Let's say three. 125 00:11:49,490 --> 00:11:49,670 Okay. 126 00:11:49,690 --> 00:11:50,360 I'll try to be- 127 00:11:50,530 --> 00:11:51,230 Additional minutes? 128 00:11:51,890 --> 00:11:52,630 I appreciate it. 129 00:11:52,750 --> 00:11:54,390 Additional minutes has been granted, thank you. 130 00:11:54,610 --> 00:11:58,110 Okay. And then there's the motor vehicle registration. 131 00:11:58,600 --> 00:12:01,250 They have requirements in terms of exhaust limits. 132 00:12:01,580 --> 00:12:02,950 This is all from what I understand. 133 00:12:04,950 --> 00:12:08,630 But to your owners, after they pass the vehicle registration, they'll take them 134 00:12:08,670 --> 00:12:12,182 home, they'll modify their exhaust And it gets outrageous. 135 00:12:13,622 --> 00:12:14,762 So basically, 136 00:12:15,862 --> 00:12:18,762 because I've talked to the police in the past, a couple of years I've talked to the 137 00:12:18,822 --> 00:12:22,702 police. I encountered some policemen a couple of weeks ago 138 00:12:22,942 --> 00:12:26,682 who suggested that I come here and talk to you guys, because what I'd like to 139 00:12:26,742 --> 00:12:27,402 see happen, 140 00:12:28,522 --> 00:12:32,342 first of all, is that the laws and the ordinances and whatever would 141 00:12:32,402 --> 00:12:35,182 be enforced, but I understand that's difficult to do. 142 00:12:35,742 --> 00:12:39,512 When I talked to the Department of Environmental Protection, they 143 00:12:39,602 --> 00:12:43,322 definitely sympathized with us and our concerns with the loud 144 00:12:43,402 --> 00:12:46,842 noises. But what I'd really like to see done, because I'm not sure, 145 00:12:47,302 --> 00:12:49,922 the police told me they really didn't feel like... 146 00:12:50,222 --> 00:12:51,951 While it's annoying, there's not a lot they can do about it. 147 00:12:52,002 --> 00:12:55,982 What I'd like to see is a sign posted at that intersection, a 148 00:12:56,102 --> 00:12:59,722 warning sign that says, "If you violate 149 00:12:59,862 --> 00:13:03,222 our noise ordinances, that you will either be cited, 150 00:13:04,242 --> 00:13:06,862 or your license will be suspended, or you'll be fined." So, 151 00:13:08,182 --> 00:13:09,042 that's my presentation. 152 00:13:09,302 --> 00:13:09,942 Thank you very much. 153 00:13:10,362 --> 00:13:10,702 Thank you. 154 00:13:10,872 --> 00:13:14,122 And it looks like you have some listening ears in the room as well too 155 00:13:15,662 --> 00:13:18,442 . Is there anyone else tonight that would like to be recognized for public comment? 156 00:13:18,522 --> 00:13:22,002 Please come forward. Again, just state your name and address for the record. 157 00:13:22,042 --> 00:13:22,822 You have two minutes. 158 00:13:23,022 --> 00:13:26,962 Joan Welch, 138 Main Street. So I want 159 00:13:27,002 --> 00:13:30,882 to reiterate that what you heard was a lot of just mumble jumble, 160 00:13:30,962 --> 00:13:34,782 but there are these drag races that go back and forth over the 161 00:13:34,882 --> 00:13:38,722 bridge really fast, and motorcycle rallies 162 00:13:38,762 --> 00:13:42,542 and things like that. I know a lot of this might die down when it gets colder 163 00:13:42,662 --> 00:13:46,182 for the motorcycles, but I don't know about the drag racing, so 164 00:13:46,642 --> 00:13:47,302 just letting you know. 165 00:13:48,022 --> 00:13:51,462 Thank you very much. Anyone else in the room that would like to be recognized for 166 00:13:51,482 --> 00:13:52,102 public comment? 167 00:13:53,842 --> 00:13:56,942 Anyone online that would like to be recognized for public comment, please indicate 168 00:13:56,982 --> 00:13:58,102 with a raised hand icon. 169 00:14:02,002 --> 00:14:05,502 Seeing none, we are going to move on to our next agenda item. 170 00:14:05,582 --> 00:14:09,192 So under C, Appointments and Community Items, we have appointment 171 00:14:09,202 --> 00:14:11,582 request, Board of Assessors, Rui 172 00:14:11,762 --> 00:14:15,482 Pereira. As the board is aware, there is currently an 173 00:14:15,542 --> 00:14:18,831 opening on the Board of Assessors due to a recent resignation. 174 00:14:18,842 --> 00:14:20,602 The position was advertised, and Mr. 175 00:14:20,861 --> 00:14:23,962 Rui Pereira submitted his letter of interest. 176 00:14:24,402 --> 00:14:28,242 Included in your board materials is a completed volunteer form and resume. 177 00:14:28,822 --> 00:14:32,002 As you will see, Mr. Pereira has several years of experience in the assessing 178 00:14:32,142 --> 00:14:33,662 field. Is Mr. Pereira here tonight? 179 00:14:34,582 --> 00:14:37,782 Please step forward. The podium is yours. Introduce yourself. 180 00:14:39,222 --> 00:14:42,062 Good evening. My name's Rui Pereira. 181 00:14:42,442 --> 00:14:45,722 I currently live at 98 Poplar Road in New Bedford, 182 00:14:45,762 --> 00:14:46,522 Massachusetts. 183 00:14:46,702 --> 00:14:48,302 Can I stop you for just one second? Mr. 184 00:14:48,342 --> 00:14:51,882 Hickey, you reached out to town counsel to confirm there's no residency requirement 185 00:14:51,962 --> 00:14:52,242 for- 186 00:14:53,502 --> 00:14:56,651 I could not reach town counsel, but I did check and 187 00:14:57,342 --> 00:14:58,582 found at least 188 00:14:59,682 --> 00:15:03,252 informally, there is no residency requirement, and 189 00:15:03,662 --> 00:15:05,042 I know we haven't had one either. 190 00:15:05,062 --> 00:15:07,842 Okay. I just wanted to make sure that we were being consistent. Please continue. 191 00:15:07,882 --> 00:15:08,882 Sorry about that. 192 00:15:08,962 --> 00:15:12,792 Like I said, I live at 98 Poplar Road in New 193 00:15:12,842 --> 00:15:16,582 Bedford, Massachusetts. I'm currently the Director of Assessing for the 194 00:15:16,662 --> 00:15:20,642 town of Bourne. I became aware of the board position 195 00:15:20,702 --> 00:15:23,662 here through the internet, and also through Bruce. 196 00:15:23,742 --> 00:15:26,762 I've worked with him in the past. He encouraged me to look into applying. 197 00:15:27,342 --> 00:15:28,162 So I did apply. 198 00:15:29,802 --> 00:15:33,362 My assessing background goes back to 2008, 199 00:15:33,582 --> 00:15:36,762 2009. I've kind of worked my way up the ranks. 200 00:15:37,722 --> 00:15:39,542 This is a little bit different for me on the other side of the hat. 201 00:15:39,662 --> 00:15:41,362 Usually, I'm kind of directing my board. 202 00:15:41,842 --> 00:15:45,342 So now I'm kind of receiving information from the assessor. 203 00:15:45,382 --> 00:15:47,622 So it's a little different hat to wear, but I'm sure I can 204 00:15:48,762 --> 00:15:51,182 be comfortable in understanding how that role works. 205 00:15:51,702 --> 00:15:54,042 Obviously, I'm well aware of the open meeting laws. 206 00:15:55,462 --> 00:15:59,342 As far as also the Board of Assessors duty under Chapter 59, 207 00:15:59,442 --> 00:16:02,602 Section 21, I'm well aware of those duties. 208 00:16:04,622 --> 00:16:05,622 Anybody has any questions? 209 00:16:06,162 --> 00:16:07,722 Any questions from the board for Mr. Pereira? 210 00:16:08,002 --> 00:16:08,562 No, thank you. 211 00:16:08,922 --> 00:16:09,422 Mr. DiCianni? 212 00:16:09,462 --> 00:16:09,582 No. 213 00:16:09,882 --> 00:16:10,122 Ms. Mella? 214 00:16:10,422 --> 00:16:10,782 No. 215 00:16:10,812 --> 00:16:11,002 Mr. Bella? 216 00:16:11,442 --> 00:16:14,252 What are some of the big challenges that you're seeing as an assessor? 217 00:16:14,982 --> 00:16:17,802 It's really catching up with the market sales. 218 00:16:17,982 --> 00:16:21,682 Every year we have to kind of analyze our sales, and I've been seeing a kind of a 219 00:16:21,742 --> 00:16:23,992 stabilization a bit more. For a while, 220 00:16:24,942 --> 00:16:26,882 during those COVID, they call them the COVID sales. 221 00:16:26,922 --> 00:16:29,922 It took a lot of towns and cities to kind of catch up to that activity that was 222 00:16:29,962 --> 00:16:33,302 going. So now we've kind of been seeing somewhat of a stable 223 00:16:35,202 --> 00:16:37,302 values across the board as far as sale prices. 224 00:16:38,522 --> 00:16:41,802 So that's kind of been the biggest challenge, has been that, I would say, and 225 00:16:43,502 --> 00:16:46,002 just the day-to-day operations. So it's a busy office 226 00:16:47,602 --> 00:16:50,962 between processing applications, and we have a lot of for exemptions. 227 00:16:51,842 --> 00:16:53,782 Those have to be handled very delicately. 228 00:16:54,022 --> 00:16:57,041 A lot of timeframe constraints that the day-to-day job the 229 00:16:58,182 --> 00:17:00,602 office handles. That's kind of the challenges. 230 00:17:00,622 --> 00:17:01,422 It's just it's an everyday- 231 00:17:01,502 --> 00:17:02,782 That was going to be my next question. 232 00:17:02,842 --> 00:17:02,932 Yeah. 233 00:17:03,142 --> 00:17:05,642 So are you seeing a lot of exemptions being sent into your office? 234 00:17:05,982 --> 00:17:09,062 Yeah. The town I work for, we did 235 00:17:10,422 --> 00:17:13,402 go into the HEROES Act. So a lot of our exemptions were, 236 00:17:14,222 --> 00:17:18,032 we had the base amount, so then the town voted to go to 100%. 237 00:17:18,113 --> 00:17:21,802 So a lot of them kind of was pretty much a whole 50% swing in the 238 00:17:21,863 --> 00:17:25,742 exemption. So we've definitely seen a lot more applicants. 239 00:17:26,103 --> 00:17:29,342 There's a lot of applicants that are not sure once they get the disability letter 240 00:17:29,402 --> 00:17:32,202 from the VA. There's not a lot of outreach sometimes, so. 241 00:17:32,982 --> 00:17:36,922 But I think that HERO Act, a lot of it was broadcast on the media, and that kind of 242 00:17:36,942 --> 00:17:40,722 got people out to apply. So we've gotten a lot of exemptions that have increased. 243 00:17:40,742 --> 00:17:44,482 I know in my office, probably went up about 10% from just because of that HERO 244 00:17:44,622 --> 00:17:45,532 Act. And then- 245 00:17:45,782 --> 00:17:46,472 Okay 246 00:17:46,502 --> 00:17:50,342 ... with the excise tax too, they get a full exemption off their excise 247 00:17:50,402 --> 00:17:53,102 tax too, or their disability percentage. 248 00:17:53,822 --> 00:17:55,142 Thank you, and thank you for applying. 249 00:17:55,442 --> 00:17:55,882 No problem. 250 00:17:56,254 --> 00:17:59,254 Thank you. And I know that you touched briefly on your familiarity with the open 251 00:17:59,314 --> 00:18:00,314 meeting law and ethics. 252 00:18:00,774 --> 00:18:00,914 Mm-hmm. 253 00:18:00,974 --> 00:18:04,814 One question that we have implemented asking applicants is, how do you approach 254 00:18:04,834 --> 00:18:05,964 situations where 255 00:18:06,994 --> 00:18:10,614 something that you feel you may want to do may contradict with what is stated in 256 00:18:10,694 --> 00:18:14,274 state law? Or if you may have a conflict of interest yourself, how do you typically 257 00:18:14,314 --> 00:18:15,554 go about those situations? 258 00:18:15,774 --> 00:18:19,554 Typically, if it's something I don't feel comfortable voting or anything 259 00:18:19,614 --> 00:18:21,814 like that, especially, I would recuse myself from it. 260 00:18:21,874 --> 00:18:25,734 If I know any particular applicant is applying for, I know with this 261 00:18:25,754 --> 00:18:29,594 position, you may know someone that's applying for an abatement, what they call. 262 00:18:30,094 --> 00:18:33,633 And obviously, you know that person, you may have to recuse yourself from that 263 00:18:34,634 --> 00:18:38,354 decision-making a lot. So that would be something I would 264 00:18:38,574 --> 00:18:40,144 obviously handle very duly, and I 265 00:18:41,374 --> 00:18:42,454 take that very seriously. 266 00:18:43,154 --> 00:18:45,534 And obviously, you feel that there's no way that 267 00:18:46,774 --> 00:18:50,664 because you're in a much different area and market than we are now, that being in 268 00:18:50,694 --> 00:18:53,554 this position in Bourne would have any sort of conflict with Fairhaven? 269 00:18:53,594 --> 00:18:55,574 Absolutely not. I actually think it's a benefit. 270 00:18:55,644 --> 00:18:57,994 I understand, really, the coastal community. 271 00:18:58,074 --> 00:19:01,804 I know a lot of properties here, they're affected by the FEMA 50/50% rules, and 272 00:19:01,854 --> 00:19:04,844 it's very similar that we have that issue in Bourne. 273 00:19:05,334 --> 00:19:07,874 So I'm very familiar as far as the waterfront landscape. 274 00:19:07,914 --> 00:19:11,874 I actually work for the city of Fairhaven as well, so I understand that really the 275 00:19:12,034 --> 00:19:14,614 waterfront, the landscape here in this town. 276 00:19:15,534 --> 00:19:16,454 Further questions on the board? 277 00:19:16,894 --> 00:19:17,294 No, thank you. 278 00:19:17,834 --> 00:19:21,194 All right. Hearing none, I'll entertain a motion to appoint Rui Pereira to the 279 00:19:21,234 --> 00:19:23,794 Board of Assessors for a three-year term. 280 00:19:23,854 --> 00:19:25,934 Is it for a three-year term or is it to fill the vacancy? 281 00:19:26,854 --> 00:19:27,513 Three-year term. 282 00:19:27,974 --> 00:19:28,434 So moved. 283 00:19:28,614 --> 00:19:28,854 Second. 284 00:19:29,014 --> 00:19:31,674 Motions are made and seconded. Any further discussion from the board? 285 00:19:32,574 --> 00:19:35,954 Hearing none, all those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? 286 00:19:36,314 --> 00:19:39,434 Thank you. Please make sure you see the town clerk to be sworn in, because you may 287 00:19:39,474 --> 00:19:40,774 actually be here right now if you want to go. 288 00:19:41,994 --> 00:19:42,404 Thank you. 289 00:19:42,424 --> 00:19:44,254 We'll email you your time. Congratulations. 290 00:19:44,954 --> 00:19:45,144 Thank you. 291 00:19:45,144 --> 00:19:46,054 Thank you for volunteering. 292 00:19:46,274 --> 00:19:47,234 Yeah, thank you. 293 00:19:47,314 --> 00:19:50,804 Up next, we have event request. Southeastern Massachusetts Educational 294 00:19:50,914 --> 00:19:54,074 Collaborative Walkathon, October 24th, 2026. 295 00:19:54,494 --> 00:19:56,574 We have a representative from SMEC, Ms. 296 00:19:56,674 --> 00:20:00,514 Kim Wilmot here, contacted the Selectboard office after 297 00:20:00,634 --> 00:20:04,474 speaking with Lieutenant Swain, also here of the Fairhaven Police, to submit an 298 00:20:04,534 --> 00:20:06,574 event request for their walkathon. 299 00:20:06,653 --> 00:20:10,614 Police and fire are in support of the event and have worked with SMEC on details 300 00:20:10,654 --> 00:20:14,414 of the event. The board's packet materials contain their letter and the route 301 00:20:14,474 --> 00:20:15,934 details. Would you like to come up? 302 00:20:17,294 --> 00:20:19,814 Motion's coming up, just to let the board know. 303 00:20:19,874 --> 00:20:22,474 So this has been an event that's gone on for a number of years in the past. 304 00:20:24,294 --> 00:20:28,214 The police department and town offices found out about it, and so we're 305 00:20:28,254 --> 00:20:31,704 just going through the same process we would go through with any other 306 00:20:31,734 --> 00:20:34,354 organizations looking to have some sort of an event like this. 307 00:20:34,494 --> 00:20:38,314 So just to give everybody a sense, this is her first time here and 308 00:20:38,334 --> 00:20:42,094 SMEC's first time here, but it's an event that's gone on now for a 309 00:20:42,134 --> 00:20:43,264 while and been successful. 310 00:20:43,714 --> 00:20:44,293 Excellent. 311 00:20:44,334 --> 00:20:48,154 Thank you. Yes, we were encouraged to be present in case anyone had any 312 00:20:48,234 --> 00:20:52,214 questions. We first started the walk in 2018, so this is 313 00:20:52,254 --> 00:20:55,744 our eighth annual because we did not have one in 2020 for obvious 314 00:20:55,814 --> 00:20:56,314 reasons. 315 00:20:57,634 --> 00:20:59,614 The address at 56 316 00:21:00,934 --> 00:21:04,874 Bridge Street is our student services office. That's the starting and ending point. 317 00:21:05,364 --> 00:21:07,194 The neighbors have been wonderful. 318 00:21:07,514 --> 00:21:11,374 And one day, they actually came out and asked us to turn up the 319 00:21:11,494 --> 00:21:14,954 music so they could dance along with us as we got ready to go. 320 00:21:15,304 --> 00:21:18,894 Minimal disruption. When we first started planning the event, I met with 321 00:21:18,994 --> 00:21:22,874 Lieutenant Sebrell, and we made sure that we had all of the appropriate safety 322 00:21:22,994 --> 00:21:25,454 considerations in place, which is a police detail. 323 00:21:25,554 --> 00:21:29,434 We pay for two cruisers, one at the beginning, one at the end. 324 00:21:29,874 --> 00:21:32,954 But the majority of the walk is actually on the bike path. 325 00:21:33,274 --> 00:21:37,194 So we go down Green Street onto the bike path, loop around, and come 326 00:21:37,234 --> 00:21:41,034 back. Because we do work with a population of individuals 327 00:21:41,114 --> 00:21:44,654 who have a number of differences in their medical and physical 328 00:21:44,734 --> 00:21:48,314 statuses, we have a water stop out on the bike path 329 00:21:48,414 --> 00:21:52,394 staffed by our staff. We have a nurse on site, and we 330 00:21:52,454 --> 00:21:56,334 have a vehicle parked on a side street, so that if anyone isn't able to make 331 00:21:56,344 --> 00:22:00,294 the full route, we have one of our wheelchair-accessible vehicles with a driver who 332 00:22:00,334 --> 00:22:01,534 can bring them back safely. 333 00:22:02,974 --> 00:22:04,034 Do you have any questions from the board? 334 00:22:04,214 --> 00:22:04,794 No, thank you. 335 00:22:06,414 --> 00:22:10,004 Hearing none, I'll entertain a motion to approve the event request for Southeastern 336 00:22:10,054 --> 00:22:13,784 Massachusetts Educational Collaborative Walkathon on October 24th, 337 00:22:13,974 --> 00:22:17,964 2026, with any conditions or requirements from police, fire, and 338 00:22:17,974 --> 00:22:18,583 public works. 339 00:22:19,023 --> 00:22:19,534 So moved. 340 00:22:19,574 --> 00:22:19,954 Second. 341 00:22:19,994 --> 00:22:21,974 The motions are made and seconded. Any discussion? 342 00:22:23,314 --> 00:22:26,074 I have one. I just want to say really quick, congratulations. 343 00:22:26,134 --> 00:22:29,594 It's my understanding this is your first walkathon as the executive director. 344 00:22:29,994 --> 00:22:30,124 It is. Thank you. 345 00:22:30,334 --> 00:22:33,634 So congratulations on your new role. Very well deserved. 346 00:22:34,154 --> 00:22:35,614 No one works harder than this woman here. 347 00:22:35,654 --> 00:22:37,554 I've had the pleasure of knowing her for many years. 348 00:22:38,634 --> 00:22:41,534 Our amazing executive director of 20 years retired. 349 00:22:41,814 --> 00:22:41,934 Mm. 350 00:22:42,074 --> 00:22:42,314 So 351 00:22:43,314 --> 00:22:44,274 yes, it happened. 352 00:22:44,984 --> 00:22:44,984 Great. 353 00:22:44,994 --> 00:22:45,494 She did. 354 00:22:45,894 --> 00:22:46,014 Right. 355 00:22:46,374 --> 00:22:48,174 28th was her last day. Thank you all so much. 356 00:22:48,474 --> 00:22:51,394 All right. All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? 357 00:22:51,714 --> 00:22:53,454 Passes unanimously. Thank you very much. 358 00:22:54,134 --> 00:22:58,083 Up next, we have request for the Fairhaven Police Department to consider 359 00:22:58,114 --> 00:23:00,194 traffic parking control request. 360 00:23:01,374 --> 00:23:04,894 No parking sign, Ash Street at the intersection of Adams. 361 00:23:05,394 --> 00:23:08,774 No left turn, Bridge Street, exit of 240 Bridge Street. 362 00:23:09,334 --> 00:23:12,874 Handicapped parking only sign, 41 Head Street. Lieutenant Swain. 363 00:23:16,774 --> 00:23:18,094 Good evening. Oh, 364 00:23:18,994 --> 00:23:19,254 hello. 365 00:23:21,734 --> 00:23:22,174 Good to see you, sir. 366 00:23:22,184 --> 00:23:24,654 Good. How's it? Selectboard. Mr. Hitch. 367 00:23:25,514 --> 00:23:29,114 Yes, I have to discuss the items in the agenda with you. 368 00:23:29,794 --> 00:23:31,914 Officer Coelho is our safety officer. 369 00:23:32,894 --> 00:23:36,434 When these issues arise, Officer Coelho goes out and does a site visit. 370 00:23:37,674 --> 00:23:39,254 And then we look into if 371 00:23:42,274 --> 00:23:44,514 what's being requested is possible. 372 00:23:46,054 --> 00:23:49,734 We either approve it or deny it based off of the site visit, 373 00:23:50,374 --> 00:23:52,314 and then we come forward to you for approval. 374 00:23:53,694 --> 00:23:57,394 So the first thing we have is a handicap parking sign to be 375 00:23:57,434 --> 00:23:59,254 installed in front of 41 Head Street. 376 00:23:59,594 --> 00:24:02,574 Oh, I'm sorry, we also conversed with the highway department prior to, 377 00:24:02,694 --> 00:24:03,814 so... 378 00:24:05,874 --> 00:24:09,494 So the site survey for 41 Hedge Street for the handicap parking 379 00:24:09,554 --> 00:24:12,634 sign. Hedge Street is a public way in the town of Fairhaven. 380 00:24:12,674 --> 00:24:16,654 The request for the handicap parking sign is for number 41, which is located 381 00:24:16,674 --> 00:24:20,074 between Main Street and Cherry Street on the south side of the road. 382 00:24:20,994 --> 00:24:24,554 It's currently two-sided parking permitted on the street and the block for this 383 00:24:24,574 --> 00:24:28,454 request. The street is approximately 545 feet long 384 00:24:28,534 --> 00:24:32,274 and 24 feet wide. There is no center line striping on the street. 385 00:24:32,284 --> 00:24:34,754 There are multiple single and multi-family houses on Hedge Street. 386 00:24:35,214 --> 00:24:38,074 Many of these homes do not have off-street parking available to them. 387 00:24:39,014 --> 00:24:41,374 There are fire hydrants on the north side of the street. 388 00:24:41,854 --> 00:24:45,794 The request, the applicant is requesting a handicap parking space in front of 389 00:24:45,834 --> 00:24:47,654 her property for use by her, 390 00:24:48,514 --> 00:24:49,214 and 391 00:24:50,074 --> 00:24:54,034 she has a handicap placard. She stated that although there is a driveway she shares 392 00:24:54,054 --> 00:24:57,974 on the property for the elderly father, does not have a placard, and he utilizes 393 00:24:58,034 --> 00:24:58,694 the driveway. 394 00:24:59,734 --> 00:25:03,094 Recommendation, we would support the installation of the handicap sign at this 395 00:25:03,143 --> 00:25:03,694 location. 396 00:25:04,714 --> 00:25:08,404 Recommendation, the sign be placed on the west side of the driveway for 41 Hedge 397 00:25:08,434 --> 00:25:12,394 Street. There is approximately 27 feet of 398 00:25:12,454 --> 00:25:16,264 space between the driveway of 39 and 41 Hedge 399 00:25:16,374 --> 00:25:19,954 Street, allowing for the required five-foot step back from these 400 00:25:19,974 --> 00:25:23,674 driveways. There is approximately 17 feet for vehicle parking. 401 00:25:23,954 --> 00:25:27,634 We do not believe it'll impede the snow removal during the winter months due to 402 00:25:27,714 --> 00:25:29,334 placement of the south side of the roadway. 403 00:25:30,894 --> 00:25:31,934 There are pictures. 404 00:25:32,754 --> 00:25:32,854 Should 405 00:25:34,274 --> 00:25:36,274 have presented prior. So we, 406 00:25:37,554 --> 00:25:41,534 after conversing with the highway department, decided that we fully support 407 00:25:41,654 --> 00:25:44,984 the installation of the handicap parking spots. 408 00:25:46,414 --> 00:25:47,774 Just one procedural question. 409 00:25:49,474 --> 00:25:53,234 I don't see here, similar to the public hearing that we had, that 410 00:25:53,354 --> 00:25:55,954 any of the abutters were notified for any of these positions. 411 00:25:55,974 --> 00:25:56,994 Is that typically not 412 00:25:57,954 --> 00:26:00,174 part of the procedure to notify the abutters or? 413 00:26:02,274 --> 00:26:05,414 I mean, the one on 240, obviously, that's mostly a commercial area, so. 414 00:26:05,474 --> 00:26:05,734 Right. 415 00:26:07,354 --> 00:26:09,814 Not that we don't generally do it for these. 416 00:26:10,114 --> 00:26:13,054 That's a concern. 417 00:26:13,194 --> 00:26:15,974 Just a thought because I know both of those streets, 418 00:26:16,814 --> 00:26:20,374 very heavy neighborhoods where there's a lot of people, and I don't know if they 419 00:26:20,414 --> 00:26:23,234 would have any input. I mean, obviously, 420 00:26:26,274 --> 00:26:28,814 the agenda was posted, and it was shared by Mr. 421 00:26:28,834 --> 00:26:32,774 Hickey on his report, so we didn't get anything, but I was just curious because I 422 00:26:32,794 --> 00:26:36,514 didn't notice any of that, and I feel like it could help prevent further 423 00:26:36,574 --> 00:26:37,303 issues from- 424 00:26:37,454 --> 00:26:40,134 Yeah, something we can suggest going forward. 425 00:26:40,874 --> 00:26:44,214 Do you think it would be something that we should do for these, or would that hold 426 00:26:44,234 --> 00:26:44,974 it up too long? 427 00:26:46,074 --> 00:26:48,724 If it's something that's requested, we could do it. 428 00:26:48,834 --> 00:26:51,494 I don't know if it's necessary. I mean, I guess I would see if the rest of the 429 00:26:51,554 --> 00:26:54,674 board has any questions or comments. Mr. Sanders? 430 00:26:54,954 --> 00:26:55,394 I'm good. 431 00:26:55,534 --> 00:26:55,984 Ms. Teacher? 432 00:26:56,454 --> 00:27:00,273 I mean, I guess the only thing I would say is, does she typically park 433 00:27:00,854 --> 00:27:03,134 in front of her house for the most part anyway? 434 00:27:03,594 --> 00:27:06,954 Well, the other thing to consider too is this handicap spot is not designated 435 00:27:07,074 --> 00:27:07,854 strictly for her. 436 00:27:07,994 --> 00:27:08,134 Right. 437 00:27:08,314 --> 00:27:12,154 It's for anyone who has a placard. And she is well aware of that, 438 00:27:12,164 --> 00:27:15,554 that she may come home, and there could be another vehicle in that spot. 439 00:27:15,894 --> 00:27:19,014 And obviously, the no parking was requested by you for Ash Street. 440 00:27:19,114 --> 00:27:20,364 Yes. And it's a- 441 00:27:20,674 --> 00:27:23,734 The Ash Street is to aid with the bus. Oh, sorry, Ms. Teacher, you said. 442 00:27:23,914 --> 00:27:24,354 Yeah, I 443 00:27:27,894 --> 00:27:31,294 guess what I'm saying is it's not going to increase the amount of cars parking. 444 00:27:31,504 --> 00:27:32,914 Correct. She's in the neighborhood anyway. 445 00:27:32,994 --> 00:27:33,094 Mm-hmm. 446 00:27:33,534 --> 00:27:35,434 It's just designating a spot in front of her house. 447 00:27:35,614 --> 00:27:36,674 Right, for her close to her house. 448 00:27:36,734 --> 00:27:37,354 Mr. Moore? 449 00:27:38,994 --> 00:27:40,054 I'm set. I'm good, thanks. 450 00:27:40,114 --> 00:27:40,234 Okay, 451 00:27:41,214 --> 00:27:44,734 so hearing no further questions, thank you for your time, unless you had anything 452 00:27:44,754 --> 00:27:45,334 else for us. 453 00:27:46,014 --> 00:27:46,614 Yeah, we have two- 454 00:27:46,854 --> 00:27:47,294 Oh, I thought. 455 00:27:47,314 --> 00:27:47,654 Two other ones. 456 00:27:47,674 --> 00:27:48,114 Sorry, continue. 457 00:27:48,194 --> 00:27:49,974 No, no problem. Yeah, so that was- 458 00:27:50,023 --> 00:27:50,394 It's just one 459 00:27:50,434 --> 00:27:51,554 ... specifically for that one. 460 00:27:52,534 --> 00:27:54,754 The next one is for 461 00:27:56,134 --> 00:27:56,474 Adams. 462 00:27:56,694 --> 00:27:57,054 Yeah. 463 00:27:57,894 --> 00:27:59,734 They're going to read the room. They're ready to make a vote here. 464 00:27:59,924 --> 00:28:00,194 Ready to go. 465 00:28:04,334 --> 00:28:05,154 Next one's Bridge Street. 466 00:28:07,534 --> 00:28:08,054 So what we have, 467 00:28:08,094 --> 00:28:12,834 basically 468 00:28:12,874 --> 00:28:16,674 what we have here is we're looking to improve the signage and traffic 469 00:28:16,754 --> 00:28:17,014 flow. 470 00:28:18,634 --> 00:28:22,254 So there currently is a no parking sign on Ash Street. 471 00:28:23,934 --> 00:28:27,834 So basically, we request an updating of the no parking sign on the west end of Ash 472 00:28:27,854 --> 00:28:31,714 Street, near Adams Street, to improve traffic flow while not limiting the 473 00:28:31,754 --> 00:28:33,314 parking for business on the corner. 474 00:28:34,934 --> 00:28:37,824 We've received several complaints from residents that live on Ash Street about 475 00:28:37,834 --> 00:28:41,754 vehicles parked too close to the corner of Adams Street in violation of 476 00:28:42,874 --> 00:28:45,913 town bylaw. Currently, there is no parking here. 477 00:28:46,014 --> 00:28:49,954 The corner sign approximately 110 feet from Ash Street 478 00:28:49,994 --> 00:28:50,754 on the south side. 479 00:28:51,854 --> 00:28:54,734 Vehicles parked in the space on the corner while going to the barber shop, 480 00:28:56,094 --> 00:28:57,374 and then we get the residents' complaints. 481 00:28:57,434 --> 00:28:59,994 So that sign's on Adams, the one you're talking about, right? 482 00:29:00,294 --> 00:29:00,684 No, it's on- 483 00:29:00,694 --> 00:29:01,424 It's 110 from Adams 484 00:29:01,424 --> 00:29:03,114 ... but it's so far down Ash Street. 485 00:29:03,194 --> 00:29:06,394 I don't think people realize the no parking signs there. 486 00:29:06,534 --> 00:29:07,414 Mm-hmm. 487 00:29:08,054 --> 00:29:11,934 So basically, the request that we're asking for that 488 00:29:12,014 --> 00:29:15,254 is to move the sign approximately 29 feet 489 00:29:15,314 --> 00:29:19,214 west. Does not change any of the allowed parking because there is 490 00:29:19,274 --> 00:29:22,874 a wide driveway cut between this new location and the old location. 491 00:29:23,094 --> 00:29:26,824 The reason for the move is to make the sign more obvious to motorists parking on 492 00:29:26,894 --> 00:29:30,834 Ash Street, and the previous just stated it's just too far away 493 00:29:30,874 --> 00:29:31,394 to be seen. 494 00:29:33,214 --> 00:29:36,654 Also, we are looking to install a no park and hit a corner 495 00:29:36,714 --> 00:29:39,174 sign across from the south side 496 00:29:40,054 --> 00:29:43,844 of the north side to allow room for the school buses and other 497 00:29:43,894 --> 00:29:47,594 large trucks to turn onto Ash Street during the 498 00:29:47,634 --> 00:29:50,714 morning and dismissal time. It makes it very difficult for the buses to turn if 499 00:29:50,754 --> 00:29:52,554 there's a vehicle parked there. 500 00:29:53,534 --> 00:29:57,494 And we would also like to add 501 00:29:57,674 --> 00:29:58,134 a 502 00:29:59,434 --> 00:30:03,214 updated sign at the top of Ash Street with the 503 00:30:04,734 --> 00:30:07,894 one-way sign with the hours on it, duplicating the sign on School Street. 504 00:30:08,314 --> 00:30:10,874 The one that currently there is really faded, difficult to read. 505 00:30:11,662 --> 00:30:13,582 The hours are not listed on the Ash Street side. 506 00:30:13,662 --> 00:30:15,402 Yeah, so the one on School Street has the hours. 507 00:30:15,442 --> 00:30:17,722 We just want to just duplicate what's on the 508 00:30:18,622 --> 00:30:19,882 School Street one. 509 00:30:20,262 --> 00:30:21,582 Is that it for the Ash Street one? 510 00:30:21,622 --> 00:30:21,632 Yes. 511 00:30:21,632 --> 00:30:22,932 Questions from the board? 512 00:30:23,982 --> 00:30:27,932 Yeah, I have one question. Right now, is Ash Street a one way at any point in 513 00:30:27,962 --> 00:30:30,402 time? Or is it... So currently it says- 514 00:30:30,422 --> 00:30:33,002 During school hours. So 7:00 to 515 00:30:33,882 --> 00:30:37,702 9:00 and 3:00 to 5:00 or something like that. Yeah. 516 00:30:38,062 --> 00:30:39,162 It just wasn't clear from this. 517 00:30:39,482 --> 00:30:42,462 Yeah, they keep the flow of traffic going. 518 00:30:43,122 --> 00:30:45,772 Well, thank you. Thank you, Mark. 519 00:30:45,772 --> 00:30:46,622 Mr. Chappelle, any questions? 520 00:30:46,662 --> 00:30:50,102 No. I do want to go back to the handicap parking sign though, before. 521 00:30:50,142 --> 00:30:50,902 Okay, please. 522 00:30:52,242 --> 00:30:53,422 Thank you for coming in this evening. 523 00:30:54,722 --> 00:30:57,922 In front of our town hall, we have that beautiful space that's open. 524 00:30:58,942 --> 00:31:02,742 Any chance we could look at or put handicap parking signs 525 00:31:02,762 --> 00:31:05,602 around town hall? I haven't seen any. 526 00:31:05,662 --> 00:31:08,842 Yeah, I actually looked into that, at the request of the select board. 527 00:31:08,882 --> 00:31:09,202 Okay. 528 00:31:10,382 --> 00:31:13,222 There's currently a handicap sign on 529 00:31:14,802 --> 00:31:18,502 William Street, which coincides with the handicap entrance to Town 530 00:31:18,542 --> 00:31:18,822 Hall. 531 00:31:19,102 --> 00:31:19,242 Okay. 532 00:31:19,272 --> 00:31:21,622 The reason there isn't one in the front of the building is because there's, I 533 00:31:21,642 --> 00:31:23,522 believe, seven or eight steps- 534 00:31:23,582 --> 00:31:23,702 Mm-hmm 535 00:31:23,862 --> 00:31:25,262 ... to get into Town Hall from the front. 536 00:31:25,272 --> 00:31:25,402 Right. 537 00:31:25,762 --> 00:31:29,102 So it really doesn't warrant a handicap spot in the front of Town Hall. 538 00:31:30,362 --> 00:31:31,602 But there is one on the side. 539 00:31:31,882 --> 00:31:32,082 Okay. 540 00:31:32,252 --> 00:31:35,882 And one is the compliant number according to the building 541 00:31:35,942 --> 00:31:39,582 inspector for the number of employees that we have here 542 00:31:39,682 --> 00:31:40,872 at Town Hall. 543 00:31:41,522 --> 00:31:44,662 I was thinking not so much the employees, but visitors, people coming in. 544 00:31:44,702 --> 00:31:47,042 Yeah, it goes based on the usage of the building. 545 00:31:47,182 --> 00:31:47,462 Thank you. 546 00:31:48,222 --> 00:31:51,082 And I spoke with the highway department, and when they re... 547 00:31:51,142 --> 00:31:55,122 After the gas job is done in there, with that street, they're going to improve 548 00:31:55,202 --> 00:31:56,562 that handicap spot with 549 00:31:57,382 --> 00:31:59,842 additional signage and street markings. 550 00:32:00,202 --> 00:32:00,542 Thank you. 551 00:32:01,882 --> 00:32:02,382 Sorry for that. 552 00:32:02,882 --> 00:32:03,422 No, no problem. 553 00:32:04,922 --> 00:32:07,042 If you want to jump right into Bridge. 554 00:32:08,542 --> 00:32:10,582 So the request for Bridge Street, 555 00:32:11,422 --> 00:32:13,582 this is a request directly from us. 556 00:32:14,122 --> 00:32:17,782 So we're looking to install an enforceable no left turn sign 557 00:32:18,682 --> 00:32:20,321 on Bridge Street coming out of the 558 00:32:22,202 --> 00:32:25,862 T-Mobile/CAN Plaza. The issue, what's 559 00:32:25,882 --> 00:32:28,842 happening right now is, vehicles are pulling out. 560 00:32:29,622 --> 00:32:31,692 They're taking a left going across those 561 00:32:32,542 --> 00:32:33,742 three lanes of traffic. 562 00:32:35,162 --> 00:32:37,142 So they go south and then start heading east. 563 00:32:37,842 --> 00:32:39,551 They go south out of the parking lot and then- 564 00:32:39,642 --> 00:32:39,942 Yes. 565 00:32:40,182 --> 00:32:40,192 East. 566 00:32:40,202 --> 00:32:44,162 Yes. And we've had a few accidents where the first lane of 567 00:32:44,202 --> 00:32:46,602 traffic stops to tell them to go- 568 00:32:46,822 --> 00:32:47,402 The other one doesn't 569 00:32:47,422 --> 00:32:51,062 ... and realize there's another lane of traffic coming, and they get hit. 570 00:32:51,102 --> 00:32:51,942 At a bang, at a boom. 571 00:32:52,082 --> 00:32:55,482 Right. So just for the safety of that, that's a very busy 572 00:32:55,522 --> 00:32:56,242 intersection. 573 00:32:57,242 --> 00:33:00,162 We're looking to put something there that's not DOT 574 00:33:00,202 --> 00:33:01,382 regulated. 575 00:33:01,962 --> 00:33:05,862 The property owner did put up a sign that's not enforceable 576 00:33:05,962 --> 00:33:09,362 from our perspective because it hasn't gone in front of the select board. 577 00:33:09,822 --> 00:33:13,242 So basically, it's merely a make places, merely a 578 00:33:13,662 --> 00:33:16,722 recommendation, suggestion. But we're looking for something that's legally 579 00:33:16,742 --> 00:33:17,362 enforceable. 580 00:33:19,262 --> 00:33:19,891 Any questions from the board? 581 00:33:19,922 --> 00:33:22,641 I do. So I know just to the east, Alden, 582 00:33:23,382 --> 00:33:27,342 GMC, Mazda, they have a similar type sign where you cannot 583 00:33:27,482 --> 00:33:28,122 take the left. 584 00:33:28,302 --> 00:33:28,402 Mm. 585 00:33:28,602 --> 00:33:31,802 I think it's actually engineered into their curb cut. 586 00:33:32,122 --> 00:33:35,982 Is that a sign that's what I'll call enforceable, or is that a 587 00:33:36,022 --> 00:33:37,042 non-enforceable sign? 588 00:33:37,382 --> 00:33:38,022 I believe it is. 589 00:33:38,322 --> 00:33:40,702 Without looking at it, I'm going to go with probably not. 590 00:33:40,842 --> 00:33:44,682 A lot of the ones you see in businesses, coming out of 7-Eleven and all those, it's 591 00:33:44,722 --> 00:33:45,942 just a recommendation that- 592 00:33:46,442 --> 00:33:49,362 I'm sure it was a function of the planning board when they approved the development 593 00:33:49,382 --> 00:33:52,422 in the first instance because you're not going to purposely build that into your- 594 00:33:52,642 --> 00:33:52,762 Right. 595 00:33:52,862 --> 00:33:56,662 So my question is, if that one isn't legally 596 00:33:56,702 --> 00:33:58,482 enforceable, should we do the same thing 597 00:33:59,362 --> 00:33:59,922 in the future? 598 00:34:00,822 --> 00:34:02,782 It's something we could definitely look into. 599 00:34:03,002 --> 00:34:06,862 I think right over there, the way the curb cut is, it kind of makes traffic have to 600 00:34:07,002 --> 00:34:07,142 go- 601 00:34:07,152 --> 00:34:08,602 Take it away. 602 00:34:08,662 --> 00:34:09,243 Sort of allow. 603 00:34:09,303 --> 00:34:10,422 Doesn't mean you do it, though. 604 00:34:10,462 --> 00:34:10,982 Yeah. 605 00:34:12,322 --> 00:34:15,422 But yeah, it's absolutely something that we can also look into. 606 00:34:15,662 --> 00:34:16,042 Thank you. 607 00:34:18,102 --> 00:34:20,182 Any other questions from the board? 608 00:34:21,922 --> 00:34:22,442 Mr. Chappelle? 609 00:34:23,062 --> 00:34:23,783 No, thank you, sir. 610 00:34:24,322 --> 00:34:25,303 Anything further from- 611 00:34:26,203 --> 00:34:28,122 No, those are the three that we have. 612 00:34:28,902 --> 00:34:32,382 Right. So I will entertain a motion to approve the following traffic parking 613 00:34:32,442 --> 00:34:34,482 control request from the Fairhaven Police Department. 614 00:34:34,971 --> 00:34:38,312 If anyone wants to hold on any of these three, just say hold, otherwise, we'll take 615 00:34:38,342 --> 00:34:42,142 it as one motion. No parking sign, Ash Street at the intersection of Adams. 616 00:34:43,803 --> 00:34:46,303 No left turn, Bridge Street exit of 240 Bridge. 617 00:34:47,422 --> 00:34:50,382 Handicap parking only sign, 41 Head Street. 618 00:34:51,263 --> 00:34:51,962 Do we have a motion? 619 00:34:52,362 --> 00:34:52,743 So moved. 620 00:34:53,122 --> 00:34:53,362 Second. 621 00:34:53,542 --> 00:34:55,723 Motions are made and seconded. Any further discussion? 622 00:34:56,322 --> 00:34:58,282 Hearing none, all those in favor? 623 00:34:58,382 --> 00:34:58,522 Aye. 624 00:34:58,602 --> 00:35:02,482 Any opposed? Passed unanimously. Thank you. 625 00:35:02,492 --> 00:35:02,492 Thank you. 626 00:35:02,542 --> 00:35:03,302 Thank you for your time. 627 00:35:04,422 --> 00:35:04,762 Good night. 628 00:35:05,722 --> 00:35:08,832 Up next, we have Consider Creation of Fairhaven Tourism Committee. 629 00:35:08,922 --> 00:35:12,042 Resident Jennifer Cardoza contacted the Selectboard office 630 00:35:12,582 --> 00:35:16,302 requesting the Selectboard consider establishing a Fairhaven Tourism Committee. 631 00:35:16,882 --> 00:35:20,862 Included in your board materials is a detailed proposal provided by Ms. 632 00:35:21,102 --> 00:35:23,802 Cardoza. 633 00:35:25,122 --> 00:35:28,842 Upon receiving Ms. Cardoza's email expressing her interest in a 634 00:35:28,862 --> 00:35:32,222 tourism committee, the town administrator shared that the Economic Development 635 00:35:32,322 --> 00:35:36,162 Committee has shared their interest in providing some of the activities formerly 636 00:35:36,242 --> 00:35:39,302 provided by the tourism department and suggested 637 00:35:41,162 --> 00:35:44,382 she reach out to a member of the Economic Development Committee to discuss 638 00:35:44,402 --> 00:35:48,262 collaborating efforts. The town administrator is unsure if the two parties 639 00:35:48,302 --> 00:35:48,982 have spoken. 640 00:35:50,802 --> 00:35:54,592 Okay. So we did not speak. I'm sorry. We did not have time to reach out to them. 641 00:35:55,542 --> 00:35:57,782 We started school, and it's been really busy. 642 00:35:58,402 --> 00:36:01,732 I brought this proposal forward because I saw that 643 00:36:01,882 --> 00:36:05,122 Middleborough does this. They have a whole group that is 644 00:36:05,622 --> 00:36:09,542 Discover Middleborough. Wareham also has a volunteer tourism group. 645 00:36:10,522 --> 00:36:14,342 I understand we have EDC, but this would be a completely different 646 00:36:14,402 --> 00:36:14,942 charge- 647 00:36:16,130 --> 00:36:18,739 I feel that events are really important to the town. 648 00:36:19,150 --> 00:36:21,190 Promoting the town is really important. 649 00:36:21,230 --> 00:36:24,840 Not just big businesses like Big Y and all those things coming in, but other small 650 00:36:24,930 --> 00:36:27,550 businesses and taking the time to promote their events. 651 00:36:28,330 --> 00:36:31,310 I don't think EDC does that. I don't even think they have a Facebook page. 652 00:36:32,510 --> 00:36:32,789 They do. 653 00:36:34,290 --> 00:36:38,040 Correct me if I'm wrong. But Discover Middleborough and The Wareham, they do 654 00:36:38,070 --> 00:36:40,950 almost similar what Fairhaven was doing. They do similar events. 655 00:36:42,850 --> 00:36:43,450 It would be a 656 00:36:44,250 --> 00:36:47,859 complete different charge. Economic development is more business growth and 657 00:36:47,870 --> 00:36:50,510 development, attracting businesses and customers. 658 00:36:50,530 --> 00:36:53,840 The tourism committee would be tourism and destination promotion, attracting 659 00:36:53,850 --> 00:36:56,130 visitors, and showcasing what Fairhaven already has. 660 00:36:56,500 --> 00:37:00,270 History, culture, attractions, bringing back the beach events, 661 00:37:00,670 --> 00:37:02,629 old time holiday, things like that. 662 00:37:03,670 --> 00:37:04,210 Questions? 663 00:37:05,810 --> 00:37:06,730 Just to open it up, 664 00:37:07,610 --> 00:37:10,710 one comment I have is that I know the EDC 665 00:37:10,790 --> 00:37:14,050 is trying to continue some of the events that you listed. 666 00:37:14,090 --> 00:37:15,900 Ribbon cuttings, old time holiday. 667 00:37:16,010 --> 00:37:17,230 I actually received an email that- 668 00:37:17,370 --> 00:37:21,150 I'm not saying that we would do ribbon cuttings. Like that should be EDC. 669 00:37:21,170 --> 00:37:21,180 Okay. 670 00:37:21,190 --> 00:37:24,950 Like that should definitely be economic development, because that's not even what 671 00:37:25,350 --> 00:37:27,900 Discover... Discover Fairhaven was doing that, but they were doing it because they 672 00:37:27,970 --> 00:37:30,800 had Fairhaven TV backing them and doing all that and promoting. 673 00:37:31,170 --> 00:37:31,180 Sure. 674 00:37:32,090 --> 00:37:32,420 I think 675 00:37:33,230 --> 00:37:36,350 there is a bit of legwork to be done before approving this tonight. 676 00:37:36,490 --> 00:37:40,280 I think because it's kind of up in the air right now who's 677 00:37:40,310 --> 00:37:44,190 taking over some of the activities from what technically was Discover 678 00:37:44,270 --> 00:37:47,570 Fairhaven and what fell under EDC or what shouldn't. 679 00:37:47,630 --> 00:37:51,590 I also think this is a conversation that this board needs to have about this 680 00:37:51,850 --> 00:37:55,500 is an opportunity to say, "Is this what we want our economic 681 00:37:55,570 --> 00:37:59,460 development committee doing?" Do we want our economic development committee doing 682 00:37:59,490 --> 00:38:02,910 Discover Fairhaven, Harbor Fest, food trucks, or do we want to 683 00:38:02,990 --> 00:38:04,660 create a separate thing like this? 684 00:38:04,730 --> 00:38:08,700 Because right now that would be duplicating efforts, and if we do want 685 00:38:08,730 --> 00:38:12,670 to create this committee, what do we want 686 00:38:12,710 --> 00:38:14,650 the economic development committee to focus on? 687 00:38:14,690 --> 00:38:18,430 Because right now it's been very what Discover Fairhaven was 688 00:38:18,450 --> 00:38:21,710 doing. Whether or not that's what it should be, that's what it is. 689 00:38:22,410 --> 00:38:25,210 So that's sort of where I'm from. I'm going to open up to the board for questions 690 00:38:25,230 --> 00:38:26,850 and comments. Mr. Sanders, if you have any? 691 00:38:27,550 --> 00:38:27,850 Thank you. 692 00:38:27,990 --> 00:38:28,469 Ms. DiCi- 693 00:38:29,050 --> 00:38:31,250 So yeah. Thank you, Mr. Chair. 694 00:38:32,150 --> 00:38:33,270 So, thanks for your idea. 695 00:38:34,710 --> 00:38:38,270 So I'm the liaison to the EDC, and I haven't attended a meeting yet, 696 00:38:38,730 --> 00:38:39,130 because it- 697 00:38:39,310 --> 00:38:40,270 Because they met pre- 698 00:38:40,370 --> 00:38:40,470 They 699 00:38:41,570 --> 00:38:44,750 met one time right after I was appointed, and I was in New York. 700 00:38:44,760 --> 00:38:45,650 So they haven't met, 701 00:38:46,810 --> 00:38:49,110 until their meeting this week, actually. 702 00:38:49,790 --> 00:38:52,850 But I did have a little bit of back and forth with Ms. 703 00:38:52,910 --> 00:38:56,830 Melanson around sort of what was happening, in part because I'm also involved 704 00:38:56,850 --> 00:38:58,530 in one of the other activities for old time. 705 00:38:59,210 --> 00:38:59,360 And 706 00:39:00,610 --> 00:39:04,390 it does sound like they have some activities that are already planned that 707 00:39:04,450 --> 00:39:06,610 they're planning on moving forward with. 708 00:39:06,640 --> 00:39:08,660 That seems to be where some of the energy is going. 709 00:39:08,830 --> 00:39:10,250 I'm only getting this through email. 710 00:39:10,410 --> 00:39:13,690 I haven't been a part of the meeting, so I would be really interested to sort of 711 00:39:13,770 --> 00:39:14,010 see, 712 00:39:14,860 --> 00:39:18,530 too, what they are thinking their charge is going 713 00:39:18,610 --> 00:39:21,610 forward in terms of what Mr. Romano was just alluding to. 714 00:39:22,930 --> 00:39:26,550 I also think that we did have some conversation with the City of New Bedford around 715 00:39:26,990 --> 00:39:30,130 the sort of promotion of activities and what they're doing in their tourism. 716 00:39:30,330 --> 00:39:32,050 We haven't really fleshed that out too much. 717 00:39:32,570 --> 00:39:36,190 I think it would be useful or helpful for us to kind of understand what 718 00:39:36,490 --> 00:39:38,490 sort of good collaborate, you know, what collaborative 719 00:39:39,390 --> 00:39:42,950 activities could happen before we charge the group to do 720 00:39:43,590 --> 00:39:47,550 things. I think it'd be sort of nice to solidify that, so then we can 721 00:39:47,830 --> 00:39:51,220 come back to the table both with, you know, what does EDC really want to-- 722 00:39:52,850 --> 00:39:56,340 Should they really be focusing on where do we want them to go, as well as, and 723 00:39:56,570 --> 00:39:59,270 then see where there's a void, really. 724 00:39:59,330 --> 00:40:01,670 Because I think it sounds to me like that's sort of what you're thinking about. 725 00:40:01,710 --> 00:40:05,459 You're like how do we fill a void of not having some of 726 00:40:05,490 --> 00:40:07,399 the robust things that we're taking- 727 00:40:07,470 --> 00:40:10,780 I mean, it's like the void of the events and the promotion, because now no one's 728 00:40:10,810 --> 00:40:12,730 running the Discover Fairhaven Facebook page. 729 00:40:13,050 --> 00:40:13,250 Right. 730 00:40:13,330 --> 00:40:14,350 The website's 731 00:40:15,430 --> 00:40:18,710 gone I think in December. So I mean, who's really going to take that 732 00:40:18,970 --> 00:40:19,590 message? 733 00:40:19,630 --> 00:40:21,010 Yeah, I think I'm sorry to interrupt you. 734 00:40:21,040 --> 00:40:21,040 No. 735 00:40:21,070 --> 00:40:24,970 I do think that's probably part of the conversation we 736 00:40:24,990 --> 00:40:28,980 should have at EDC too. Like do they envision, are they envisioning that 737 00:40:28,990 --> 00:40:30,830 they're going to continue with the Facebook page? 738 00:40:30,950 --> 00:40:33,429 If so, how is that going to happen? You know, all of those kinds of things. 739 00:40:33,470 --> 00:40:33,590 So, 740 00:40:34,970 --> 00:40:36,650 that's kind of where I stand. I 741 00:40:37,510 --> 00:40:40,380 do think that there's some more conversation that needs to happen before we- 742 00:40:41,390 --> 00:40:45,070 Yeah. And just to clarify my comment, I am 100% not a 743 00:40:45,190 --> 00:40:45,430 no. 744 00:40:45,910 --> 00:40:46,230 Yeah, no. 745 00:40:46,470 --> 00:40:50,410 I feel like I'm a not right now. Let's figure out that and then 746 00:40:50,490 --> 00:40:52,970 bring this back. But Ms. Mello, do you have anything to add? 747 00:40:53,370 --> 00:40:56,090 Yeah, I mean, thank you for bringing this forward. 748 00:40:58,510 --> 00:41:01,870 I think we do need to have more discussion about what roles are. 749 00:41:01,880 --> 00:41:03,130 I also have a concern 750 00:41:04,950 --> 00:41:08,830 that even if it were a volunteer committee, if this is done under the 751 00:41:08,910 --> 00:41:11,910 auspices of the Slack board, there are still going to be resources that are 752 00:41:12,010 --> 00:41:15,110 required from the town to have this done. 753 00:41:15,170 --> 00:41:18,810 You make mention of town administrator time, town council 754 00:41:18,930 --> 00:41:19,270 time. 755 00:41:20,610 --> 00:41:24,210 So I would be the last person to get in the way of a 756 00:41:24,250 --> 00:41:27,190 volunteer group that wanted to get together to do this. 757 00:41:27,730 --> 00:41:28,750 I'm not sure 758 00:41:31,050 --> 00:41:34,690 with the information I have available to me right now that that needs to be 759 00:41:34,710 --> 00:41:36,509 something that comes from Town Hall. 760 00:41:37,380 --> 00:41:40,650 If that makes any sense. Those are my questions that I need 761 00:41:40,670 --> 00:41:41,510 answered. 762 00:41:41,770 --> 00:41:44,310 Ms. Lopes, before we recognize you, I'm going to recognize to see if Mr. 763 00:41:44,510 --> 00:41:48,370 Chapella has anything. Ms. Lopes, did you have something that you wanted to add to 764 00:41:48,430 --> 00:41:48,710 this? 765 00:41:53,090 --> 00:41:55,970 Hi. Yes, I did. I just wanted to mention, 766 00:41:57,490 --> 00:42:01,290 this is a great thought process and I understand 767 00:42:01,370 --> 00:42:05,330 the complexity of possibly duplicating 768 00:42:05,450 --> 00:42:08,110 some different things, and you don't necessarily want to. 769 00:42:08,350 --> 00:42:10,610 I agree with what Pam was saying as well. 770 00:42:11,790 --> 00:42:15,710 I think that Jen's idea and where the direction that could 771 00:42:15,790 --> 00:42:19,670 be headed could be great for those lost areas without the 772 00:42:19,810 --> 00:42:23,430 Office of Tourism now being there, or Discover Fairhaven. 773 00:42:24,890 --> 00:42:28,628 I love it It's a fantastic idea, and it also 774 00:42:28,678 --> 00:42:31,718 helps other groups come together throughout the 775 00:42:31,778 --> 00:42:32,698 town. 776 00:42:33,598 --> 00:42:37,418 Like local vendors who have local businesses, and promoting those 777 00:42:37,458 --> 00:42:40,658 businesses within the town could also help as well. 778 00:42:40,958 --> 00:42:44,628 We are seeing loss now without 779 00:42:44,658 --> 00:42:46,628 Discover Fairhaven for promotions. 780 00:42:47,168 --> 00:42:50,858 But we also think of it too, when you're coming together as 781 00:42:50,878 --> 00:42:54,358 volunteers, this also gives different groups and opportunities to start 782 00:42:54,438 --> 00:42:58,278 working together collaboratively, and 783 00:42:58,378 --> 00:43:02,098 giving the opportunity for incorporating some sustainability and 784 00:43:02,198 --> 00:43:06,118 reuse for different events throughout the town for holidays 785 00:43:06,158 --> 00:43:09,628 and decorations and supplies, things of that nature. 786 00:43:09,818 --> 00:43:13,028 So I understand Jen's idea, but I also 787 00:43:13,078 --> 00:43:16,648 understand your aspect of things, and 788 00:43:17,318 --> 00:43:21,198 waiting to see how EDC plans to go about for the future 789 00:43:21,358 --> 00:43:23,678 of what they would pick up for the, 790 00:43:24,918 --> 00:43:26,918 Discover Fairhaven aspect of things. 791 00:43:27,018 --> 00:43:30,818 But I just wanted to give my input, and I thank you all for your time. 792 00:43:30,858 --> 00:43:34,538 Before you mute, name and address for the record, 793 00:43:34,598 --> 00:43:34,858 please. 794 00:43:35,498 --> 00:43:37,558 Christina Lopes, 12 Bernie Street. 795 00:43:37,598 --> 00:43:40,298 Thank you very much. Mr. Chipola, did you have anything in response? 796 00:43:40,358 --> 00:43:42,938 Yes. Jen, awesome idea. Thank you. 797 00:43:44,758 --> 00:43:48,618 I personally believe that economic development 798 00:43:49,218 --> 00:43:52,258 is a completely different activity than tourism. 799 00:43:53,118 --> 00:43:56,938 I look at economic development, and I would like to hear from them as you did 800 00:43:57,498 --> 00:44:01,348 state, Mr. Chair, so we have a clear line of responsibilities 801 00:44:01,358 --> 00:44:05,038 for economic development. And hopefully, if we can approve this tourism 802 00:44:05,078 --> 00:44:05,408 committee, 803 00:44:06,748 --> 00:44:10,058 that their focus is on the big picture items for the town of Fairhaven, 804 00:44:11,598 --> 00:44:15,338 development, plazas, businesses, things like that. 805 00:44:16,098 --> 00:44:17,198 Whereas tourism, 806 00:44:18,378 --> 00:44:19,408 we're a coastal community, 807 00:44:20,298 --> 00:44:24,188 attracting people to come into our beach, the festivals that 808 00:44:24,218 --> 00:44:27,298 we do. So I agree with you, Mr. Chair, that if we 809 00:44:27,338 --> 00:44:31,178 could ask both entities to really define 810 00:44:31,238 --> 00:44:35,228 what their roles and responsibilities would be and their focus, I think it 811 00:44:35,258 --> 00:44:38,838 would be very productive for the town so that you're not 812 00:44:38,938 --> 00:44:42,238 overlapping one another's activities. But great idea, Jen. 813 00:44:42,578 --> 00:44:43,498 Awesome. Thank you. 814 00:44:44,058 --> 00:44:47,718 Something else I just want to throw out there too is we currently have a 815 00:44:48,798 --> 00:44:51,658 Cable Advisory Committee that is struggling- 816 00:44:52,258 --> 00:44:52,468 Cable what, sir? 817 00:44:52,468 --> 00:44:55,218 Cable Advisory Committee, which struggles to get membership, 818 00:44:56,658 --> 00:44:58,348 because of what its current charge is. 819 00:44:58,638 --> 00:45:02,298 Cable Advisory has an aspect that needs to be the 820 00:45:02,358 --> 00:45:04,658 negotiation of contracts with Comcast. 821 00:45:04,718 --> 00:45:08,198 But it doesn't have to fall under the Cable Advisory, that's just sort of where it 822 00:45:08,238 --> 00:45:09,548 has ended up. But 823 00:45:10,438 --> 00:45:13,638 as someone who's been the liaison to that board for the last two years, I can tell 824 00:45:13,678 --> 00:45:16,818 you a big thing of what they talk about is how to promote community events and how 825 00:45:16,838 --> 00:45:20,488 to work within that. We almost have an opportunity to sort of restructure that 826 00:45:20,538 --> 00:45:24,418 board too, to work together with this committee and say, "Okay, we have these 827 00:45:24,458 --> 00:45:27,778 events. Now how do we get Fairhaven TV covering it?" So just part of a 828 00:45:28,238 --> 00:45:30,158 maybe bigger conversation. Mr. Sanders? 829 00:45:30,178 --> 00:45:33,828 So, yeah, thank you for your idea. I agree with what everybody said. 830 00:45:33,878 --> 00:45:37,427 It'd be helpful though if you had said Middleborough 831 00:45:37,958 --> 00:45:40,638 is very successful at this, and you know Wareham doing it too. 832 00:45:42,218 --> 00:45:45,878 Given what you've heard from the board today, if you could, I'll give you a little 833 00:45:45,918 --> 00:45:49,058 homework assignment. You don't have to do it if you don't want to, but could you 834 00:45:49,238 --> 00:45:51,707 let us know how Middleborough works? 835 00:45:51,818 --> 00:45:54,918 Do they have the same dynamic between economic development and 836 00:45:54,958 --> 00:45:57,468 tourism? Same thing with Wareham. That'd be helpful. 837 00:45:57,548 --> 00:45:58,978 Yeah. Completely, it's separate. 838 00:45:59,038 --> 00:45:59,558 It's two- 839 00:45:59,738 --> 00:46:00,018 So they have both 840 00:46:00,028 --> 00:46:01,958 ... completely separate charges. They have both. 841 00:46:01,978 --> 00:46:02,338 Okay. 842 00:46:02,578 --> 00:46:04,298 Middleborough is super successful. 843 00:46:04,318 --> 00:46:05,268 Their Facebook page has 844 00:46:06,178 --> 00:46:09,718 thousands of followers, and they promote every event, and they're 845 00:46:09,858 --> 00:46:13,658 literally a volunteer group that promote events, put out events. 846 00:46:14,178 --> 00:46:16,678 I didn't look into Wareham too much, but Middleborough is huge. 847 00:46:17,098 --> 00:46:20,198 Right. That's good context. Thank you. Good question. 848 00:46:20,458 --> 00:46:24,338 So with that being said, would you like us to move forward with any sort of motion 849 00:46:24,378 --> 00:46:27,398 tonight, or would you agree that should we-- Something to add themselves? 850 00:46:28,458 --> 00:46:28,998 Yeah, I think, 851 00:46:29,898 --> 00:46:33,698 so to Mr. Sanders' point, I think it would be, it would 852 00:46:33,718 --> 00:46:37,488 almost be helpful to understand how they've separated the charge too, because 853 00:46:37,498 --> 00:46:39,698 there's so much overlap there. There appears to be. 854 00:46:40,138 --> 00:46:43,067 Like I said, I haven't been to a meeting, so I'm just basing off what I've seen on 855 00:46:43,978 --> 00:46:47,798 TV and had communication on. So I think I'd feel more 856 00:46:47,858 --> 00:46:51,668 comfortable sort of understanding the dynamic and then helping 857 00:46:51,718 --> 00:46:55,478 to determine that charge. I don't disagree with you that there should be a 858 00:46:55,518 --> 00:46:59,018 more designated focus on the bigger development pieces. 859 00:46:59,398 --> 00:47:03,278 But how do we get there before we kind of move to another 860 00:47:03,318 --> 00:47:06,818 committee that could have overlap and then confusion. That's my feeling. 861 00:47:06,918 --> 00:47:10,858 I think it's something we could consider going forward once we do that. 862 00:47:11,778 --> 00:47:14,348 Would you like us to table, or would you like us to move forward without- 863 00:47:14,478 --> 00:47:17,298 You can table it. I was just bringing an idea to everyone. 864 00:47:17,318 --> 00:47:18,358 I just wanted to put it out there. 865 00:47:18,398 --> 00:47:21,618 So, yep. Let's not set a deadline, so that way we can work through these 866 00:47:21,658 --> 00:47:23,798 conversations. Let's table it sort of 867 00:47:25,498 --> 00:47:28,778 indefinitely, so that way the board can bring it back up once we sort of work 868 00:47:28,838 --> 00:47:32,197 through with the economic development committee to drive a different comment. 869 00:47:32,238 --> 00:47:32,958 That's a different comment. 870 00:47:33,158 --> 00:47:33,168 Okay. 871 00:47:33,168 --> 00:47:36,108 I just wanted to just ask, would you be willing to come back when we're ready to 872 00:47:36,478 --> 00:47:38,718 take this up once we've had more conversations? 873 00:47:39,118 --> 00:47:39,458 Yeah. 874 00:47:39,498 --> 00:47:39,928 Please. 875 00:47:39,948 --> 00:47:40,218 Okay, awesome. Yeah. 876 00:47:40,258 --> 00:47:40,598 Thank you. 877 00:47:40,638 --> 00:47:40,818 Okay. 878 00:47:41,098 --> 00:47:44,198 All right, so do we have a motion to table indefinitely? 879 00:47:44,538 --> 00:47:44,998 So moved. 880 00:47:45,708 --> 00:47:45,898 Second. 881 00:47:46,418 --> 00:47:47,638 Motions are made and seconded. 882 00:47:47,918 --> 00:47:49,038 Just to table. 883 00:47:49,298 --> 00:47:50,578 Okay, it's a motion to table. 884 00:47:51,418 --> 00:47:55,098 Any further discussion? All those in favor? Aye. 885 00:47:55,138 --> 00:47:58,218 Any opposed? Thank you so much for your time. We'll definitely be in touch. 886 00:47:58,318 --> 00:47:58,348 Thank you. 887 00:47:58,348 --> 00:47:59,278 Thanks. Thank you. 888 00:47:59,318 --> 00:48:00,318 Thank you, Jen. 889 00:48:00,358 --> 00:48:03,258 All right, next we have use of auditorium request. 890 00:48:03,358 --> 00:48:07,018 Millicent Library, October 22nd, 2026 for an author talk 891 00:48:07,078 --> 00:48:07,378 event. 892 00:48:08,258 --> 00:48:11,278 The Millicent Library is seeking the board's approval for the use of the town hall 893 00:48:11,338 --> 00:48:15,038 auditorium on October 22nd, 2026 for an author 894 00:48:15,138 --> 00:48:18,288 talk. Details of the author and the forthcoming 895 00:48:18,838 --> 00:48:21,738 details on the author are forthcoming, which they are on your blotter tonight. 896 00:48:22,688 --> 00:48:26,218 A flyer with additional details was provided to the office today on the 897 00:48:26,278 --> 00:48:29,968 board's blotter. Do we have anyone here online to discuss this 898 00:48:29,998 --> 00:48:30,278 event? 899 00:48:32,166 --> 00:48:35,466 I don't believe so. Do we have any questions from the board? 900 00:48:35,526 --> 00:48:35,966 This is a 901 00:48:36,866 --> 00:48:39,326 similar style event that has been hosted in the past. 902 00:48:40,126 --> 00:48:41,246 Any questions from the board? 903 00:48:44,586 --> 00:48:48,386 No? All right. Hearing none, I will entertain a motion to approve the 904 00:48:48,486 --> 00:48:51,566 use of Town Hall Auditorium by the Millicent Library on October 905 00:48:51,746 --> 00:48:55,646 22nd, 2026, contingent upon payment of the custodian 906 00:48:56,146 --> 00:48:59,626 and audiovisual fees in accordance with the town's policy as outlined in the 907 00:48:59,666 --> 00:49:00,666 application. 908 00:49:00,746 --> 00:49:01,186 So moved. 909 00:49:01,226 --> 00:49:01,786 Second. 910 00:49:01,796 --> 00:49:04,046 Motion's been made and seconded. Any further discussion? 911 00:49:04,826 --> 00:49:06,306 Hearing none, all those in favor? 912 00:49:06,826 --> 00:49:07,106 Aye. 913 00:49:07,496 --> 00:49:09,666 Aye. Opposed? Passes unanimously. 914 00:49:09,726 --> 00:49:12,806 Before we go into executive session, we have review of open volunteer 915 00:49:12,866 --> 00:49:16,306 opportunities. As part of the board's effort to highlight volunteer 916 00:49:16,366 --> 00:49:19,206 opportunities, the board's packet contains a list of recent 917 00:49:19,226 --> 00:49:22,596 resignations and openings that appear on the Volunteer 918 00:49:22,666 --> 00:49:25,506 Opportunities page of the website. 919 00:49:25,516 --> 00:49:26,426 The town's website, 920 00:49:27,766 --> 00:49:31,346 as of the morning of the agenda as posted, is listed as part of the packet. 921 00:49:31,716 --> 00:49:34,086 The list may change as openings are identified. 922 00:49:34,146 --> 00:49:38,046 Interested applicants should review the page and can contact the town 923 00:49:38,086 --> 00:49:39,886 administrator's office with any questions. 924 00:49:40,526 --> 00:49:44,306 Resignations since last meeting, we have a Cultural Council, two members, Catherine 925 00:49:44,386 --> 00:49:47,786 Tebbs and Donna Cicerone. Probably butchering that, I 926 00:49:47,846 --> 00:49:51,646 apologize. I just want to read through really quickly that we are accepting 927 00:49:51,746 --> 00:49:55,706 applications for all positions. Special Bylaw Review Committee, open 928 00:49:55,766 --> 00:49:58,186 until filled, one member through term completion. 929 00:49:58,586 --> 00:50:00,986 Belonging Committee, one member, open until filled. 930 00:50:01,786 --> 00:50:03,505 Board of Assessors has been filled tonight. 931 00:50:04,106 --> 00:50:05,746 So that has been- 932 00:50:05,866 --> 00:50:06,906 That has been filled, yep. 933 00:50:06,946 --> 00:50:07,646 Okay, thank you. 934 00:50:08,506 --> 00:50:11,366 Table Advisory Committee, two members, open until filled. 935 00:50:11,666 --> 00:50:14,916 Cultural Council, two members, three-year term, open until filled. 936 00:50:15,426 --> 00:50:19,346 Historic Commission, associate members not to exceed number of full members, open 937 00:50:19,386 --> 00:50:23,186 until filled. Lagoa Friendship Pact Committee, one member, open 938 00:50:23,246 --> 00:50:27,226 until filled, and Livable Streets Committee, unlimited availability, open 939 00:50:27,366 --> 00:50:31,286 until filled. I also would like to indicate for the public tonight that 940 00:50:31,586 --> 00:50:35,126 we said at our last meeting of October 941 00:50:35,246 --> 00:50:38,986 10th that we would be doing a boarding committee reappointment night. 942 00:50:39,626 --> 00:50:42,926 That has been finally, definitely scheduled for 943 00:50:42,986 --> 00:50:44,606 October 14th, 944 00:50:45,506 --> 00:50:49,486 2026 at 6:00 PM. That is the Wednesday following 945 00:50:49,546 --> 00:50:53,486 our Tuesday night meeting. That night has changed if you are 946 00:50:53,526 --> 00:50:55,886 an applicant, so you will be getting notified. 947 00:50:56,046 --> 00:50:59,446 We will also be extending the application period by one week. 948 00:51:00,506 --> 00:51:04,066 Any members of the public who are listening, 949 00:51:04,286 --> 00:51:06,955 any position that had ended 950 00:51:08,186 --> 00:51:11,686 in May that we have extended through the September date, 951 00:51:12,196 --> 00:51:14,146 that is considered an open position. 952 00:51:14,566 --> 00:51:16,986 Members who have that seat may reapply. 953 00:51:17,686 --> 00:51:18,086 Members 954 00:51:19,166 --> 00:51:22,786 of the public who would like to apply can apply for any of those open seats and 955 00:51:22,826 --> 00:51:24,806 will be considered that evening. 956 00:51:25,786 --> 00:51:29,766 If a member who is up for reappointment does not reapply, 957 00:51:29,846 --> 00:51:32,226 they've been given over a month's notice to do so. 958 00:51:32,666 --> 00:51:36,386 So if we do not receive it by the October date, we will assume that that 959 00:51:36,426 --> 00:51:39,086 person is no longer interested in reapplying. 960 00:51:39,136 --> 00:51:39,206 They 961 00:51:40,606 --> 00:51:44,526 will be receiving up to two to three emails by the time the application 962 00:51:44,566 --> 00:51:48,266 period closes. So all applicants will have an opportunity to reapply. Ms. Mellor? 963 00:51:49,406 --> 00:51:53,286 I had a question of the Historical Commission about whether we were going 964 00:51:53,346 --> 00:51:57,226 to organize it by time so people would know when to show up, 965 00:51:57,246 --> 00:52:00,186 so that someone doesn't come from the beginning of the meeting and has to sit there 966 00:52:00,226 --> 00:52:01,006 for two and a half hours. 967 00:52:01,026 --> 00:52:04,526 So how we were doing it was alphabetical order of committee. 968 00:52:05,826 --> 00:52:07,486 Are we going to announce that? 969 00:52:07,676 --> 00:52:10,346 That's how we announced it to all the applicants who have- 970 00:52:10,356 --> 00:52:10,356 Oh, okay 971 00:52:10,356 --> 00:52:14,066 ... applied. We're going in alphabetical order of how it will appear. 972 00:52:14,126 --> 00:52:17,196 So, assessors A, B, C, down the line. 973 00:52:17,946 --> 00:52:19,206 Unfortunately, 974 00:52:20,106 --> 00:52:24,096 we're making a recommendation of how long we think it may take based on how 975 00:52:24,106 --> 00:52:28,086 many applicants we receive, but that also depends on if all the applicants show 976 00:52:28,206 --> 00:52:28,386 up 977 00:52:30,966 --> 00:52:33,166 and how quickly some of the conversation goes. 978 00:52:33,286 --> 00:52:35,286 So we're not saying at 6:15- 979 00:52:35,446 --> 00:52:35,526 No. 980 00:52:35,926 --> 00:52:36,586 Boom. Okay. 981 00:52:36,786 --> 00:52:36,795 No. 982 00:52:36,806 --> 00:52:37,086 Thank you. 983 00:52:37,116 --> 00:52:38,286 It is going to go in alphabetical order. 984 00:52:38,666 --> 00:52:40,466 We start at 6:00 PM? 985 00:52:40,506 --> 00:52:41,466 That'll be at 6:00 PM. 986 00:52:41,626 --> 00:52:41,886 Thank you. 987 00:52:41,926 --> 00:52:42,066 Yep. 988 00:52:43,006 --> 00:52:45,586 Further questions from the board regarding open positions? 989 00:52:46,786 --> 00:52:47,906 All right. Hearing none, 990 00:52:49,246 --> 00:52:49,545 we have 991 00:52:50,826 --> 00:52:52,566 executive session. 992 00:52:53,566 --> 00:52:57,186 I will entertain a motion to enter into executive session pursuant to 993 00:52:57,266 --> 00:53:01,206 General Law Chapter 30A, subsection 21A3, to 994 00:53:01,266 --> 00:53:05,186 discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining or litigation if an 995 00:53:05,266 --> 00:53:09,066 open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining and 996 00:53:09,106 --> 00:53:12,786 litigating position of the public body, and the chair so declares, 997 00:53:13,646 --> 00:53:17,626 AFSCME Highway and Atlas Tech, and to 998 00:53:17,666 --> 00:53:20,666 return to open session. Do we have a motion? 999 00:53:21,586 --> 00:53:24,986 Just to be clear, we're just doing item D, we're not doing item K, 1000 00:53:25,546 --> 00:53:26,256 because we have two executive- 1001 00:53:26,286 --> 00:53:27,636 Correct. We'll go back and do it separately. 1002 00:53:27,926 --> 00:53:28,346 Okay. So moved. 1003 00:53:28,646 --> 00:53:28,886 Second. 1004 00:53:29,506 --> 00:53:31,596 Motion's been made and seconded. Any further discussion? 1005 00:53:32,226 --> 00:53:34,376 Hearing none, I'll call for a roll call vote. Mr. Sanders? 1006 00:53:34,566 --> 00:53:35,526 Newtown moves in favor. 1007 00:53:35,706 --> 00:53:36,866 I think Peter, yes. 1008 00:53:37,046 --> 00:53:37,506 Ms. Mellor? 1009 00:53:37,566 --> 00:53:38,366 Madelyn Mellor, aye. 1010 00:53:38,686 --> 00:53:39,526 Mr. Ed Chappel, yes. 1011 00:53:39,786 --> 00:53:43,466 Andrew Romano, aye. 6:51, we are now in executive session. 1012 01:44:47,236 --> 01:44:49,416 We're going to move into E, action discussion items. 1013 01:44:49,536 --> 01:44:53,176 Up first, we have consider amendment to collective bargaining agreement for the 1014 01:44:53,256 --> 01:44:56,406 American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees 1015 01:44:56,956 --> 01:45:00,936 Highway, AFSCME. Public Works Director Vinnie Furtado 1016 01:45:00,976 --> 01:45:04,956 will present amendments to the collective bargaining agreement included in our 1017 01:45:05,016 --> 01:45:08,996 board and material packets is the supporting information on the 1018 01:45:09,036 --> 01:45:10,716 proposed amendments. Mr. Furtado. 1019 01:45:13,936 --> 01:45:15,226 Good evening. 1020 01:45:15,316 --> 01:45:17,136 Good evening, everybody. 1021 01:45:17,236 --> 01:45:21,046 So as provided in everyone's packet, I'm 1022 01:45:21,076 --> 01:45:24,556 here on behalf of the Board of Public Works to request 1023 01:45:25,316 --> 01:45:28,736 the reclassification of our garage 1024 01:45:28,836 --> 01:45:32,796 mechanic positions from that of a grade seven 1025 01:45:33,356 --> 01:45:34,996 to that of a grade nine. 1026 01:45:36,936 --> 01:45:40,656 It wouldn't happen as a rite of passage for 1027 01:45:40,716 --> 01:45:44,456 everybody. There would have to be X number of years 1028 01:45:44,656 --> 01:45:48,516 that would have to be satisfied and some 1029 01:45:49,176 --> 01:45:52,996 certifications and whatnot that would have to be achieved. 1030 01:45:53,016 --> 01:45:56,655 But once that level of proficiency was 1031 01:45:56,726 --> 01:45:59,336 achieved, then we're looking for the 1032 01:45:59,376 --> 01:46:03,216 capabilities to promote the staff, 1033 01:46:03,996 --> 01:46:05,606 give them a growth opportunity, 1034 01:46:07,316 --> 01:46:09,676 because nowadays, like I mentioned 1035 01:46:10,596 --> 01:46:11,536 to the board, 1036 01:46:12,436 --> 01:46:14,636 when it comes to vehicle repair, 1037 01:46:15,556 --> 01:46:19,316 you have to be more than someone who can turn a wrench. 1038 01:46:19,416 --> 01:46:23,236 You have to have, with the modernization of the vehicles, 1039 01:46:23,736 --> 01:46:25,796 you need to have the prowess to be 1040 01:46:27,196 --> 01:46:30,676 technologically savvy for the computer systems that are 1041 01:46:30,696 --> 01:46:34,536 located therein. So, as part of 1042 01:46:35,356 --> 01:46:38,956 what has been delegated to the Selectboard, 1043 01:46:39,376 --> 01:46:40,556 as far as 1044 01:46:42,416 --> 01:46:46,236 signing off on what's ultimately negotiated 1045 01:46:46,296 --> 01:46:50,036 by the Board of Public Works, I'm asking since 1046 01:46:50,516 --> 01:46:54,236 the negotiation won't happen until a couple of years from now, give or 1047 01:46:54,336 --> 01:46:57,976 take the beginning of '28, and the sign 1048 01:46:58,076 --> 01:46:58,346 off, 1049 01:46:59,216 --> 01:47:02,976 if the board so approved, wouldn't occur until two 1050 01:47:03,076 --> 01:47:06,736 years from now. Rather than wait the two years, I'm 1051 01:47:06,776 --> 01:47:10,396 hoping that the board will approve the request that 1052 01:47:11,316 --> 01:47:14,876 the Board of Public Works made via the town administrator, 1053 01:47:15,656 --> 01:47:18,816 that you would sign off that if any of our employees 1054 01:47:19,276 --> 01:47:20,756 achieved the required 1055 01:47:22,536 --> 01:47:26,356 certifications and capabilities to work on the 1056 01:47:26,396 --> 01:47:30,156 computers, that there would be a growth opportunity within the 1057 01:47:30,216 --> 01:47:31,776 department. Which again, 1058 01:47:32,656 --> 01:47:36,456 I firmly believe, and the numbers will demonstrate 1059 01:47:36,536 --> 01:47:40,436 that for a small raise, the 1060 01:47:40,496 --> 01:47:44,216 town's going to save thousands of dollars in what would be 1061 01:47:44,556 --> 01:47:45,676 funneled out to 1062 01:47:46,856 --> 01:47:48,476 private concern. Right now, 1063 01:47:49,536 --> 01:47:53,436 every vehicle that we repair in town, they don't pay for 1064 01:47:53,496 --> 01:47:57,276 labor. Obviously, the labor is handled by the staff that we have in 1065 01:47:57,356 --> 01:47:57,496 the 1066 01:47:58,476 --> 01:48:00,836 highway department, the vehicle repair staff. 1067 01:48:01,306 --> 01:48:05,276 And the gentlemen that we have, the whole crew, but especially the 1068 01:48:05,316 --> 01:48:09,116 gentleman that we have heading up the garage, he's really a crackerjack 1069 01:48:09,136 --> 01:48:11,656 with repairs and with the 1070 01:48:14,056 --> 01:48:17,016 computer stuff. So we're really... 1071 01:48:17,096 --> 01:48:20,896 Key DAU folks have asked us to try to look at ways 1072 01:48:21,036 --> 01:48:24,476 we can save money, that we're doing this right now, 1073 01:48:24,976 --> 01:48:28,696 and really with a small shift, 1074 01:48:29,396 --> 01:48:31,516 it's a net savings for the town. 1075 01:48:32,596 --> 01:48:33,356 Questions from the board? 1076 01:48:33,436 --> 01:48:34,036 So, yeah. 1077 01:48:36,056 --> 01:48:39,276 I'll consider this direct examination questions, which are the easiest ones to 1078 01:48:39,296 --> 01:48:39,716 answer. 1079 01:48:41,696 --> 01:48:45,516 Could you explain for the people 1080 01:48:45,636 --> 01:48:46,076 watching 1081 01:48:46,916 --> 01:48:50,496 that although it's the Board of Public Works that's coming in front of us asking 1082 01:48:50,656 --> 01:48:53,886 for this authority to create the position with inside the Board of Public Works, 1083 01:48:55,236 --> 01:48:58,596 is it true that all of the 1084 01:48:58,676 --> 01:48:59,336 town's 1085 01:49:00,256 --> 01:49:01,916 automobiles or vehicles 1086 01:49:02,736 --> 01:49:06,036 are serviced or repaired by the Board of Public Works? 1087 01:49:06,616 --> 01:49:10,356 Maybe that's a bad question. The police cruisers, the fire 1088 01:49:10,376 --> 01:49:11,656 trucks, the ambulances- 1089 01:49:11,736 --> 01:49:12,516 Some schools 1090 01:49:12,576 --> 01:49:16,556 ... all of those automobiles would 1091 01:49:16,596 --> 01:49:17,616 be serviced by these- 1092 01:49:17,836 --> 01:49:18,666 If they're serviced- 1093 01:49:18,715 --> 01:49:19,076 ... positions 1094 01:49:19,085 --> 01:49:20,436 ... if, yes. 1095 01:49:21,536 --> 01:49:24,986 And the alternative is if we don't have someone to service these, 1096 01:49:25,706 --> 01:49:29,636 what I'll say, more technologically advanced vehicles, we would have to 1097 01:49:29,676 --> 01:49:33,656 hire an outside vendor to service those 1098 01:49:33,716 --> 01:49:34,496 correctly. 1099 01:49:34,516 --> 01:49:38,376 Right. Whereas you would pay the parts and the labor, and the labor 1100 01:49:38,396 --> 01:49:40,576 would be a lot more than the- 1101 01:49:40,616 --> 01:49:41,396 Well, it's going to be much- 1102 01:49:41,446 --> 01:49:42,776 ... for $3 that- 1103 01:49:43,096 --> 01:49:47,036 Based upon training and experience over the last 40 years, do you think it would be 1104 01:49:47,056 --> 01:49:48,306 a net savings to the town? 1105 01:49:48,336 --> 01:49:49,336 Yes, I do. 1106 01:49:49,416 --> 01:49:49,976 Thank you. 1107 01:49:50,076 --> 01:49:51,936 And that's not me just trying to sell it. 1108 01:49:52,016 --> 01:49:52,896 I believe you. 1109 01:49:53,076 --> 01:49:54,076 I truly believe that. 1110 01:49:55,756 --> 01:49:55,806 Thank you. 1111 01:49:55,816 --> 01:49:56,676 Other questions from the board? 1112 01:49:58,056 --> 01:50:01,536 All right. Hearing none, I will entertain a motion to approve 1113 01:50:02,016 --> 01:50:05,776 establishing a senior mechanic position to be placed grade 1114 01:50:05,876 --> 01:50:09,676 nine of the existing wage scale Further, to create a senior 1115 01:50:09,716 --> 01:50:13,596 working foreman position to be placed in grade 10 of the existing 1116 01:50:13,636 --> 01:50:14,276 wage scale. 1117 01:50:14,296 --> 01:50:14,856 So moved. 1118 01:50:14,916 --> 01:50:15,176 Second. 1119 01:50:15,396 --> 01:50:17,436 Motions are made and seconded. Any further discussion? 1120 01:50:18,426 --> 01:50:19,776 Hearing none, all those in favor? 1121 01:50:20,076 --> 01:50:20,426 Aye. 1122 01:50:20,426 --> 01:50:22,096 Aye. Opposed? Carries unanimously. 1123 01:50:22,116 --> 01:50:22,896 Thank you, everybody who- 1124 01:50:23,086 --> 01:50:23,086 Good night. 1125 01:50:23,116 --> 01:50:25,456 I saw a couple of things later on the agenda, so- 1126 01:50:26,356 --> 01:50:27,016 More than you want. 1127 01:50:28,136 --> 01:50:28,516 All right. 1128 01:50:37,116 --> 01:50:37,676 All right, up next. 1129 01:50:39,916 --> 01:50:39,996 Mr. 1130 01:50:41,456 --> 01:50:43,896 Picado, what item are you sticking around for? 1131 01:50:47,516 --> 01:50:48,396 Here for the agenda. 1132 01:50:48,696 --> 01:50:52,496 This would be a draft local aid letter holding a regional meeting, wastewater 1133 01:50:52,576 --> 01:50:53,316 issues. Is that you? 1134 01:50:53,376 --> 01:50:53,655 Sure. 1135 01:50:53,876 --> 01:50:55,616 Thank you. 1136 01:50:55,956 --> 01:50:58,636 I'd like to entertain a motion to take item E3 out of order. 1137 01:50:58,896 --> 01:50:59,136 Ooh. 1138 01:50:59,216 --> 01:50:59,736 So second. 1139 01:50:59,996 --> 01:51:03,976 Motions were made and seconded. Any further discussion? Hearing none, aye. 1140 01:51:04,026 --> 01:51:04,026 Aye. 1141 01:51:04,056 --> 01:51:04,456 Aye. 1142 01:51:04,916 --> 01:51:08,736 Opposed? Passes unanimously. Mr. Picado, the floor is yours. 1143 01:51:08,816 --> 01:51:09,136 We are going to- 1144 01:51:09,616 --> 01:51:12,356 Well, I didn't want to, since it said wastewater- 1145 01:51:12,555 --> 01:51:12,676 Yeah. 1146 01:51:12,716 --> 01:51:14,956 You know, I didn't want to leave- 1147 01:51:15,196 --> 01:51:15,816 Yeah, so let me- 1148 01:51:15,826 --> 01:51:17,326 In case you had any questions about it. 1149 01:51:17,326 --> 01:51:20,636 Yeah. So we're going to enter into discussion on holding a regional meeting to 1150 01:51:20,676 --> 01:51:24,656 discuss solutions to wastewater issues impacting Fairhaven and other South 1151 01:51:24,716 --> 01:51:28,536 Coast communities. Member Rick Chipillo and Town Administrator Hickey met with 1152 01:51:28,636 --> 01:51:32,596 two members of the New Bedford Public Works to discuss ongoing and future 1153 01:51:32,676 --> 01:51:36,616 wastewater concerns. Member Chipillo is seeking board support 1154 01:51:36,626 --> 01:51:40,116 to contact Representative Silvia and Senator Montigny's offices 1155 01:51:40,576 --> 01:51:44,276 to organize a meeting of elected and appointed officials on the South 1156 01:51:44,376 --> 01:51:47,916 Coast to discuss seeking federal aid to address the 1157 01:51:47,956 --> 01:51:51,056 expected increase in costs to treat and dispose of wastewater. 1158 01:51:51,096 --> 01:51:52,556 So I guess I'll turn it over to you first. 1159 01:51:52,976 --> 01:51:56,226 I think that's everything we asked for. That's the description. 1160 01:51:56,456 --> 01:51:58,436 We met last week with 1161 01:51:59,896 --> 01:52:01,816 the City of New Bedford, excuse me. 1162 01:52:03,596 --> 01:52:05,936 We started with CSO 1163 01:52:06,776 --> 01:52:10,676 discharge. We ended up with wastewater costs 1164 01:52:11,156 --> 01:52:12,176 to 1165 01:52:13,116 --> 01:52:16,196 dispose of the variety of types of wastewater. 1166 01:52:18,556 --> 01:52:18,836 Cake. 1167 01:52:19,136 --> 01:52:20,005 Cake remnants. 1168 01:52:21,126 --> 01:52:22,576 Not from Holiday Bakery, though. 1169 01:52:22,716 --> 01:52:26,476 And it was a really good conversation 1170 01:52:26,516 --> 01:52:30,416 about the fact that the opportunities for 1171 01:52:30,496 --> 01:52:33,176 us to dispose of this wastewater waste 1172 01:52:34,216 --> 01:52:38,156 is potentially going to be narrowed and become much 1173 01:52:38,176 --> 01:52:38,936 more expensive. 1174 01:52:39,876 --> 01:52:39,956 So- 1175 01:52:39,996 --> 01:52:41,445 For the town of Fairhaven to get rid of? 1176 01:52:41,606 --> 01:52:41,606 Both. 1177 01:52:42,396 --> 01:52:42,576 Okay. 1178 01:52:42,696 --> 01:52:46,216 Every community that operates a wastewater 1179 01:52:46,336 --> 01:52:50,176 plant is going to potentially face significant increases in the 1180 01:52:50,236 --> 01:52:52,936 cost of disposing of waste 1181 01:52:53,796 --> 01:52:54,856 from the wastewater plant. 1182 01:52:55,736 --> 01:52:56,796 So we, 1183 01:52:58,816 --> 01:53:02,756 during our conversation, suggested to the City of New Bedford, does 1184 01:53:02,816 --> 01:53:05,696 it make any sense? Would they be willing to at least start a 1185 01:53:05,736 --> 01:53:09,256 conversation with other South Coast 1186 01:53:09,266 --> 01:53:11,706 communities to see if we can try to solve that problem as a- 1187 01:53:11,756 --> 01:53:13,196 To regionalize them? 1188 01:53:13,316 --> 01:53:14,626 And they 1189 01:53:15,556 --> 01:53:18,916 seemed interested. Again, just like I'm not, they weren't the 1190 01:53:18,956 --> 01:53:22,246 decision-makers, but they, I think, are willing 1191 01:53:22,296 --> 01:53:26,196 to support at least exploring 1192 01:53:26,206 --> 01:53:28,496 the opportunities to find a solution. 1193 01:53:28,596 --> 01:53:29,306 And so what 1194 01:53:30,276 --> 01:53:33,996 I think we're asking for this evening from the board is 1195 01:53:34,376 --> 01:53:35,476 to allow, 1196 01:53:37,196 --> 01:53:39,556 ultimately, representatives from this board, probably Mr. 1197 01:53:40,516 --> 01:53:44,116 Picado, a member or two of the Board of Public Works, and 1198 01:53:44,156 --> 01:53:45,776 potentially me to 1199 01:53:46,636 --> 01:53:49,676 meet with other South Coast communities 1200 01:53:49,716 --> 01:53:53,666 to brainstorm to see if there's a way that we can work 1201 01:53:53,696 --> 01:53:57,636 with either our local or even our state or federal government 1202 01:53:58,536 --> 01:54:02,396 to provide some financial assistance to 1203 01:54:04,036 --> 01:54:07,836 ultimately reduce the cost of disposal for South 1204 01:54:07,896 --> 01:54:11,636 Coast communities. But didn't want to do that without coming to this board 1205 01:54:11,696 --> 01:54:12,285 first and 1206 01:54:13,216 --> 01:54:16,426 making you aware of what occurred last week and what 1207 01:54:17,176 --> 01:54:19,596 direction we'd like to at least go 1208 01:54:21,096 --> 01:54:25,056 moving forward. Through you, Mr. Chair, can I just give 1209 01:54:25,096 --> 01:54:25,656 you some... 1210 01:54:25,696 --> 01:54:26,526 Yes. 1211 01:54:26,975 --> 01:54:29,076 So right now, the Town of Fairhaven, 1212 01:54:29,975 --> 01:54:33,456 City of New Bedford too, they have a contract with Synagro. 1213 01:54:34,116 --> 01:54:34,736 Synagro 1214 01:54:35,576 --> 01:54:38,756 are the folks who transport our 1215 01:54:38,796 --> 01:54:42,656 waste to an incinerator in Woonsocket, Rhode 1216 01:54:42,776 --> 01:54:42,966 Island, 1217 01:54:43,776 --> 01:54:47,416 and we pay the transportation over there. 1218 01:54:47,516 --> 01:54:50,896 And based on the level of 1219 01:54:51,576 --> 01:54:55,056 dryness, if you will, that we can 1220 01:54:55,116 --> 01:54:55,936 achieve, 1221 01:54:57,116 --> 01:55:00,156 there's a percent solids calculation, 1222 01:55:00,896 --> 01:55:04,776 and the drier, the easier it is to incinerate than if it 1223 01:55:04,816 --> 01:55:05,696 were wet. 1224 01:55:06,296 --> 01:55:06,556 Right. 1225 01:55:07,116 --> 01:55:07,356 But this- 1226 01:55:07,596 --> 01:55:07,836 No. 1227 01:55:08,036 --> 01:55:11,456 It's true. But the balance is 1228 01:55:11,856 --> 01:55:12,276 when 1229 01:55:13,236 --> 01:55:14,036 the material 1230 01:55:15,076 --> 01:55:18,776 is taken away, here in New Bedford and everywhere that has a 1231 01:55:18,836 --> 01:55:22,716 contract with Synagro, it goes in an enclosed 1232 01:55:22,776 --> 01:55:25,676 tanker, like those 9,000-gallon gas tankers. 1233 01:55:26,186 --> 01:55:30,136 So it has to be wet enough to be able to pump, because you're not shoveling it 1234 01:55:30,156 --> 01:55:33,916 into the back of a truck. So it has to be wet enough to be 1235 01:55:33,976 --> 01:55:37,736 pumped into the tanker and 1236 01:55:37,956 --> 01:55:40,136 then brought to Woonsocket. So- 1237 01:55:41,136 --> 01:55:43,756 Woonsocket may be going away, which- 1238 01:55:43,936 --> 01:55:45,016 That is the whole thing 1239 01:55:45,136 --> 01:55:48,916 ... cause additional transportation costs, which what we would like to 1240 01:55:48,936 --> 01:55:51,066 explore, keeping- 1241 01:55:51,516 --> 01:55:51,936 Right 1242 01:55:51,946 --> 01:55:54,276 ... disposal more in the region. 1243 01:55:54,356 --> 01:55:58,206 There is talk that Woonsocket is no longer 1244 01:55:58,236 --> 01:56:01,336 going to be processing the waste 1245 01:56:01,836 --> 01:56:05,736 in 2029. The coach may turn into 1246 01:56:05,796 --> 01:56:09,756 a pumpkin in 2029. So it could be sooner than that. 1247 01:56:09,916 --> 01:56:13,604 Pumpkin. Yes. Did you have anything to add? I'm sorry. 1248 01:56:13,684 --> 01:56:15,013 No, so because of that, 1249 01:56:16,444 --> 01:56:20,344 there are other options. There's Blackstone, there's 1250 01:56:21,904 --> 01:56:25,884 Lowell, there's Cranston, but you'd have 1251 01:56:25,924 --> 01:56:29,724 to jockey for position. So it's a great idea, honestly, to 1252 01:56:29,784 --> 01:56:33,204 see if we can go collectively elsewhere, 1253 01:56:33,364 --> 01:56:34,624 especially 1254 01:56:35,984 --> 01:56:39,744 joining with New Bedford, because we give 1255 01:56:39,864 --> 01:56:41,244 about 10 1256 01:56:42,564 --> 01:56:45,404 trucks per week, give or take, to Synagro. 1257 01:56:45,444 --> 01:56:49,184 About two a day, sometimes a little more, whereas New Bedford's 1258 01:56:49,204 --> 01:56:51,364 probably eight, nine, 10 a day- 1259 01:56:51,784 --> 01:56:51,864 Mm 1260 01:56:52,024 --> 01:56:55,844 ... with the amount of volume. So they would be the 1261 01:56:55,884 --> 01:56:59,624 lead dog. And whatever ultimately would 1262 01:56:59,684 --> 01:57:00,064 happen, 1263 01:57:01,164 --> 01:57:04,984 if we joined with them, they would have more saying power, if you 1264 01:57:05,064 --> 01:57:07,364 will, because they'd be a bigger customer. 1265 01:57:08,104 --> 01:57:10,964 We are just 25 million gallons a day. 1266 01:57:11,004 --> 01:57:13,444 We're three million gallons a day, not that kind. 1267 01:57:13,904 --> 01:57:16,424 Mr. Trapani, did they cover it or do you have anything to add? 1268 01:57:16,604 --> 01:57:17,184 Yes, I do. 1269 01:57:18,544 --> 01:57:19,944 Thank you, Mr. Furtado, as always. 1270 01:57:21,144 --> 01:57:25,004 Mr. Hickey, thank you for allowing me to attend the meeting over in New Bedford 1271 01:57:25,014 --> 01:57:25,424 this past- 1272 01:57:25,444 --> 01:57:26,964 Happy to have you. 1273 01:57:27,044 --> 01:57:30,964 We first went there, Mr. Furtado, and to the board to discuss 1274 01:57:31,044 --> 01:57:34,664 a letter that we were contemplating sending out to EPA 1275 01:57:35,284 --> 01:57:37,164 to get their assist 1276 01:57:38,164 --> 01:57:41,824 in pushing New Bedford to resolve their discharge during rain 1277 01:57:41,884 --> 01:57:42,264 events. 1278 01:57:43,364 --> 01:57:46,244 We met with Mr. Pont, and he's an absolute 1279 01:57:46,284 --> 01:57:49,454 gentleman. And he brought up to us in the meeting, 1280 01:57:51,224 --> 01:57:55,124 residents of Bedford are heavily taxed now for their upgrades to their system. 1281 01:57:58,344 --> 01:58:01,864 They're doing as much as they can with the EPA orders that they have in 1282 01:58:02,004 --> 01:58:02,384 place. 1283 01:58:03,344 --> 01:58:04,974 And Mr. Pont, and please correct me, Mr. 1284 01:58:06,024 --> 01:58:07,824 Hickey, I'm looking at my notes from the meeting. 1285 01:58:08,504 --> 01:58:10,684 He really referenced their discharge, Mr. 1286 01:58:10,744 --> 01:58:14,244 Furtado, as impacting the shellfish. 1287 01:58:15,184 --> 01:58:15,484 And 1288 01:58:16,824 --> 01:58:20,624 he brought up that the regulations for shellfishing had changed, 1289 01:58:20,684 --> 01:58:21,824 making it more stringent. 1290 01:58:22,944 --> 01:58:24,564 And I said, "Okay, I understand that." 1291 01:58:25,624 --> 01:58:27,444 I said very respectfully, I said, 1292 01:58:28,544 --> 01:58:32,404 "In the town of Fairhaven, we have invested some $70 million 1293 01:58:32,824 --> 01:58:34,504 for our nitrogen compliance, 1294 01:58:35,304 --> 01:58:37,064 plus a new plant." 1295 01:58:38,024 --> 01:58:38,414 I said, 1296 01:58:39,284 --> 01:58:42,344 "In the city of New Bedford," I said, "Your plant 1297 01:58:43,344 --> 01:58:46,684 does need upgrades because it has no nitrogen capability." 1298 01:58:47,704 --> 01:58:51,484 And I referenced in the month of July that you have 1299 01:58:51,604 --> 01:58:54,744 discharged approximately 130 million gallons of waste. 1300 01:58:56,344 --> 01:59:00,134 His focus was really not on the dumping of that waste, 1301 01:59:00,424 --> 01:59:02,384 but really on the impact to shellfishing. 1302 01:59:03,504 --> 01:59:07,344 And my end is both on the shellfishing, but what dumping 1303 01:59:07,404 --> 01:59:10,684 that waste, the human waste, the chemicals, et cetera, 1304 01:59:10,864 --> 01:59:14,004 plus the nitrogen into the bay does. 1305 01:59:16,444 --> 01:59:18,124 And I certainly didn't want to be rude, 1306 01:59:19,104 --> 01:59:20,764 Mr. Hickey, because he's a gentleman. 1307 01:59:21,204 --> 01:59:25,064 I could see in his face that he was doing absolutely the best he 1308 01:59:25,164 --> 01:59:28,984 could. He's a good guy. He has limited amount of money for 1309 01:59:29,084 --> 01:59:31,584 110,000 population city. 1310 01:59:33,464 --> 01:59:34,824 So, 1311 01:59:35,784 --> 01:59:36,604 to this board, 1312 01:59:38,764 --> 01:59:41,464 I would not propose sending the letter that I had drafted. 1313 01:59:43,224 --> 01:59:44,524 I think it would be 1314 01:59:47,084 --> 01:59:47,944 antagonistic, 1315 01:59:48,804 --> 01:59:50,524 and I don't think it would serve any purpose. 1316 01:59:51,844 --> 01:59:55,514 I really think that if this board, and perhaps Mr. 1317 01:59:55,764 --> 01:59:58,114 Saunders and Ms. Keicher, with your contacts, 1318 01:59:59,984 --> 02:00:01,964 if we could try to... What's the expression? 1319 02:00:02,204 --> 02:00:04,644 You can bring a horse to water, but you can't make them drink. 1320 02:00:06,004 --> 02:00:09,344 Perhaps if we could have some meetings with the city of New Bedford 1321 02:00:10,144 --> 02:00:13,884 to get their focus more off of the issue of, well, they 1322 02:00:13,944 --> 02:00:17,774 changed the regulation on shellfishing, which is making it now more apparent that 1323 02:00:17,784 --> 02:00:20,804 every time it rains, they shut down the shellfishing beds. 1324 02:00:21,544 --> 02:00:25,404 To recognize that it's really not healthy 1325 02:00:25,444 --> 02:00:28,604 to the whole Buzzards Bay community, from Wareham to Westport, 1326 02:00:30,644 --> 02:00:32,724 to allow the plant to continue the way it is. 1327 02:00:33,824 --> 02:00:35,844 And perhaps that's a conversation with 1328 02:00:36,824 --> 02:00:40,704 your contact with the mayor, because the mayor has now appointed to talk about 1329 02:00:40,744 --> 02:00:40,964 this. 1330 02:00:42,144 --> 02:00:46,064 I referenced a meeting that Mr. Pont was in to Mr. 1331 02:00:46,284 --> 02:00:47,444 Hickey when we were there, that 1332 02:00:48,524 --> 02:00:52,484 Mr. Rasmussen from Buzzards Bay Coalition facilitated a meeting, 1333 02:00:52,544 --> 02:00:55,044 Mr. Furtado, about a year and a half ago, two years. 1334 02:00:55,944 --> 02:00:59,834 In which they said the solution for a holding tank, upgrade to that plant, 1335 02:01:00,084 --> 02:01:03,204 because the residents there have issues with smell, et cetera. 1336 02:01:03,764 --> 02:01:04,584 It's a billion too. 1337 02:01:05,684 --> 02:01:09,364 And Mr. Pont says, "Brett, we don't have that money." And 1338 02:01:09,524 --> 02:01:13,364 I respect that. The residents, the taxpayers in New 1339 02:01:13,384 --> 02:01:14,524 Bedford don't have that money. 1340 02:01:15,564 --> 02:01:18,804 But the residents along the South Coast do not. 1341 02:01:19,864 --> 02:01:20,694 So at that meeting, 1342 02:01:21,604 --> 02:01:23,124 Mr. Saunders, and to the board, 1343 02:01:24,064 --> 02:01:27,844 we did talk about, and Mr. Montigny, Senator Montigny, 1344 02:01:28,104 --> 02:01:29,284 Representative Silvia, 1345 02:01:30,524 --> 02:01:32,884 Mr. Markey, Representative Markey, had talked about 1346 02:01:33,724 --> 02:01:37,584 funding, maybe setting up an MWRA, something on a 1347 02:01:37,684 --> 02:01:41,384 more regional or federal basis to really try to 1348 02:01:41,444 --> 02:01:42,364 help the biggest 1349 02:01:43,644 --> 02:01:47,594 city on the South Coast that has a very antiquated wastewater treatment 1350 02:01:47,594 --> 02:01:51,364 plant. So on the issue of the agenda tonight, 1351 02:01:52,824 --> 02:01:56,624 I do not want to send that letter out. I think it would be... 1352 02:01:57,424 --> 02:01:58,784 I don't think it would serve any purpose. 1353 02:01:58,864 --> 02:02:00,774 I think it would just aggravate the situation. 1354 02:02:01,504 --> 02:02:05,044 That I really think if we could do some brainstorming with Mr. Hickey and Mr. 1355 02:02:05,104 --> 02:02:08,804 Furtado and this board to try to find 1356 02:02:08,904 --> 02:02:12,764 some way to get that city and our elected 1357 02:02:12,784 --> 02:02:16,284 officials to try to resolve that problem, I think that's the best way to do it. 1358 02:02:17,644 --> 02:02:21,524 To go on just to further the conversation, it did come up with the cake, 1359 02:02:21,584 --> 02:02:22,384 Mr. Potato, 1360 02:02:23,264 --> 02:02:23,644 and 1361 02:02:25,224 --> 02:02:28,944 everybody talking about that capability to burn the waste from the treatment 1362 02:02:29,004 --> 02:02:32,704 plant and our collaboration. And then he also did share that that 1363 02:02:32,724 --> 02:02:36,484 wastewater treatment plant, the City of New Bedford has outsourced in 1364 02:02:36,524 --> 02:02:40,424 terms of their ability to find that they thought 1365 02:02:40,444 --> 02:02:41,724 that was the better way to do it. 1366 02:02:41,964 --> 02:02:42,924 Well, they thought they- 1367 02:02:43,544 --> 02:02:46,784 Really quickly, I'm sorry. Before you respond, I just want to check. 1368 02:02:47,504 --> 02:02:50,824 I feel like we're going down a good path, but a path that's a little off what we're 1369 02:02:50,964 --> 02:02:51,924 talking about tonight. 1370 02:02:52,514 --> 02:02:52,514 I apologize. 1371 02:02:52,544 --> 02:02:56,224 So specifically, we're talking about discussion of holding a regional 1372 02:02:56,264 --> 02:02:58,024 meeting to discuss these solutions. 1373 02:02:58,284 --> 02:02:58,524 Yes. 1374 02:02:58,584 --> 02:03:02,464 Are there any questions from members of the board against moving that forward or 1375 02:03:02,524 --> 02:03:04,543 in favor of moving that forward, Mr. Sanders? 1376 02:03:04,604 --> 02:03:06,544 No, I'm going to stay neutral. 1377 02:03:06,624 --> 02:03:08,824 I think the only question that I have, and I agree- 1378 02:03:08,864 --> 02:03:10,154 I have a question, but you go ahead. 1379 02:03:10,164 --> 02:03:11,863 No. No, go ahead, Mr. Sanders. Go ahead. 1380 02:03:11,944 --> 02:03:13,504 No, you finish. You finish. 1381 02:03:13,584 --> 02:03:17,244 I was just curious because I 1382 02:03:17,424 --> 02:03:19,304 thought a committee had been put together, 1383 02:03:20,324 --> 02:03:23,744 and that was maybe that Buzzards Bay meeting, that Buzzards Bay Coalition 1384 02:03:23,804 --> 02:03:26,574 facilitated meeting. I thought there had been a committee that- 1385 02:03:27,114 --> 02:03:27,114 Mm 1386 02:03:27,114 --> 02:03:30,284 ... came together but never actually met. 1387 02:03:30,324 --> 02:03:33,704 Good point, Ms. Kuechle. It was an excellent meeting that 1388 02:03:35,404 --> 02:03:36,924 Mr. Rasmussen put together. 1389 02:03:38,664 --> 02:03:40,144 It was the first and the last meeting. 1390 02:03:40,464 --> 02:03:40,684 Okay. 1391 02:03:40,864 --> 02:03:44,544 And I think that if that meeting could maybe happen again 1392 02:03:45,164 --> 02:03:48,764 to say, "Hey, how can we..." Because there was people in attendance from Westport 1393 02:03:48,844 --> 02:03:49,324 to Wareham. 1394 02:03:49,364 --> 02:03:49,564 Yeah. 1395 02:03:50,364 --> 02:03:51,804 So nothing really happened from it. 1396 02:03:52,024 --> 02:03:55,884 What you're referring to is, yes, we have, it's called the Buzzards Bay 1397 02:03:55,944 --> 02:03:59,784 Water Quality Working Group. Ms. Mello is the current liaison to that, 1398 02:03:59,884 --> 02:04:02,504 but I don't believe that has been a committee that has been meeting. 1399 02:04:02,764 --> 02:04:04,604 Has not met since I've been on the board. 1400 02:04:04,864 --> 02:04:05,964 Okay. All right. 1401 02:04:06,404 --> 02:04:09,084 So that is something that we have. I don't know if that's something we consider 1402 02:04:09,864 --> 02:04:13,444 disbanding and going this route instead. It sounds like this may be more effective. 1403 02:04:13,684 --> 02:04:13,904 I mean, my- 1404 02:04:14,044 --> 02:04:14,664 But Ms. Kuechle, back to you. 1405 02:04:14,844 --> 02:04:18,744 Yeah. My belief is that working together 1406 02:04:18,784 --> 02:04:22,124 with the city and the other communities is the best route to go. 1407 02:04:22,204 --> 02:04:22,724 I've felt that- 1408 02:04:22,784 --> 02:04:23,104 Bill 1409 02:04:23,114 --> 02:04:23,644 ... from the beginning. 1410 02:04:23,714 --> 02:04:23,714 Mm-hmm. 1411 02:04:23,744 --> 02:04:27,704 So I think it's, I'm encouraged to hear that we're headed down that 1412 02:04:27,744 --> 02:04:29,634 road and that this meeting took place and Mr. 1413 02:04:30,704 --> 02:04:32,664 Pont was open and willing to discuss it. 1414 02:04:32,704 --> 02:04:36,684 So I think, based on that, I think that's probably the 1415 02:04:38,124 --> 02:04:41,104 way that we're going to get to some kind of help New Bedford get to some kind of 1416 02:04:41,144 --> 02:04:41,964 solution, I think. 1417 02:04:42,024 --> 02:04:43,144 Mr. Sanders, your question? 1418 02:04:43,224 --> 02:04:45,564 Yeah. Mine wasn't a question, it was more of an observation. 1419 02:04:46,104 --> 02:04:46,344 So, 1420 02:04:47,824 --> 02:04:50,104 yeah. I think we should talk with New Bedford. 1421 02:04:50,144 --> 02:04:50,264 Yes. 1422 02:04:50,664 --> 02:04:53,864 But we also need to invite, if Fairhaven's going to do it, we have to invite 1423 02:04:53,884 --> 02:04:54,393 Mattapoisett- 1424 02:04:54,414 --> 02:04:54,464 Mm 1425 02:04:54,504 --> 02:04:56,714 ... because we have an intermunicipal agreement with Mattapoisett. 1426 02:04:57,104 --> 02:05:00,863 We take their waste here. My question to you, if you could, please, if you know the 1427 02:05:00,924 --> 02:05:04,444 answer, just tell the board, where does Acushnet's waste go? 1428 02:05:04,524 --> 02:05:07,764 I believe Acushnet waste goes to New Bedford. Where does Dartmouth's waste go? 1429 02:05:07,884 --> 02:05:10,764 I know it stays in Dartmouth. Where does Westport's waste go? 1430 02:05:10,824 --> 02:05:14,104 Just so that we can understand the context of how many 1431 02:05:14,164 --> 02:05:17,644 municipalities might be involved in these discussions. 1432 02:05:17,744 --> 02:05:21,524 Well, Acushnet goes to, those folks who have sewage is tied 1433 02:05:21,584 --> 02:05:22,044 into 1434 02:05:23,224 --> 02:05:23,904 New Bedford. 1435 02:05:24,744 --> 02:05:28,704 Dartmouth is either septic systems or they have their 1436 02:05:28,744 --> 02:05:31,504 own treatment plant, so it would go there. 1437 02:05:31,564 --> 02:05:35,424 Mattapoisett, those folks who are tied into the sewer all 1438 02:05:35,464 --> 02:05:36,284 come our way, 1439 02:05:37,084 --> 02:05:40,784 about 550,000 gallons, give or take. 1440 02:05:41,604 --> 02:05:42,344 But yeah. 1441 02:05:43,364 --> 02:05:44,924 So thank you for that. But my other... 1442 02:05:46,044 --> 02:05:46,694 I'll give you another, 1443 02:05:48,184 --> 02:05:50,914 a piece of history. So again, when 1444 02:05:51,784 --> 02:05:55,064 I was going through law school, I worked in the Massachusetts State Senate in 1445 02:05:55,104 --> 02:05:55,904 1988, 1446 02:05:56,964 --> 02:06:00,584 1989, 1990. The City of New Bedford 1447 02:06:00,684 --> 02:06:02,304 had some pretty hellacious 1448 02:06:03,304 --> 02:06:06,724 enforcement orders against them from the EPA, and what that 1449 02:06:06,764 --> 02:06:10,484 resulted was the City of New Bedford basically said, "We don't have the money," 1450 02:06:10,584 --> 02:06:14,144 just like Jamie Pont is saying today, and I agree with you, Jamie Pont is a great 1451 02:06:14,204 --> 02:06:14,354 guy. 1452 02:06:14,354 --> 02:06:14,904 Great guy. 1453 02:06:15,054 --> 02:06:17,504 All right? But the EPA finally said, "Look, 1454 02:06:18,524 --> 02:06:22,144 that's all well and good, but we're going to force you to make the money, 1455 02:06:22,384 --> 02:06:25,684 to find the money, or make the politically tough decision." 1456 02:06:26,284 --> 02:06:30,044 And what they did and what DEP did was they took away New Bedford's general 1457 02:06:30,144 --> 02:06:34,124 permit to issue sewer connections with inside 1458 02:06:34,164 --> 02:06:37,264 the city. Not a sewer extension, but a sewer connection. All right? 1459 02:06:37,303 --> 02:06:40,244 There was a general permit, they took that away, and in essence what that did was 1460 02:06:40,284 --> 02:06:41,194 that shut down- 1461 02:06:41,504 --> 02:06:41,644 Oh 1462 02:06:41,804 --> 02:06:45,744 ... the ability, exactly. You could not issue any new building permits in the City 1463 02:06:45,784 --> 02:06:49,464 of New Bedford. And as John Bullard was the mayor at the time, he 1464 02:06:49,524 --> 02:06:53,414 made the very, very politically tough decision, which was in the 1465 02:06:53,444 --> 02:06:56,044 right interest of the City of New Bedford. 1466 02:06:56,064 --> 02:06:59,244 And if you asked him this today, he would tell you this, but it cost him the 1467 02:06:59,284 --> 02:06:59,924 election. 1468 02:07:00,124 --> 02:07:00,244 Mm-hmm. 1469 02:07:00,304 --> 02:07:04,154 He got beat as the thing. So that's probably, that is the, well, 1470 02:07:04,284 --> 02:07:07,984 I know that's the political quagmire that 1471 02:07:08,204 --> 02:07:12,044 we're not going to face. The City of New Bedford's elected officials will face 1472 02:07:12,084 --> 02:07:13,324 that. I'm just putting it out there- 1473 02:07:13,604 --> 02:07:13,654 Thank you 1474 02:07:13,654 --> 02:07:16,563 ... because that is the message we have to manage. 1475 02:07:16,684 --> 02:07:17,584 I did not know that, sir. 1476 02:07:17,684 --> 02:07:18,344 We have to manage. 1477 02:07:19,144 --> 02:07:20,164 Ms. Mello, did you have a question? 1478 02:07:20,544 --> 02:07:22,864 Yeah. Well, I just, to respond- 1479 02:07:22,984 --> 02:07:23,034 There are tools 1480 02:07:23,034 --> 02:07:26,503 ... that's why the current mayor doesn't want to talk about it at the moment. 1481 02:07:26,584 --> 02:07:27,503 Mm-hmm. 1482 02:07:27,564 --> 02:07:28,364 But I 1483 02:07:29,964 --> 02:07:33,904 agree with Ms. Kuechle as far as this approach I'm much happier with 1484 02:07:33,924 --> 02:07:35,264 than sending threatening letters. 1485 02:07:35,344 --> 02:07:35,764 I think this 1486 02:07:37,164 --> 02:07:40,994 will yield more progress. My question, and 1487 02:07:41,064 --> 02:07:44,844 I've heard this bandied about, and maybe this was just because 1488 02:07:44,904 --> 02:07:48,624 it's catchy, but when you talk about regional, you just talked about a few 1489 02:07:48,684 --> 02:07:52,503 towns, but are we still talking Wareham to Westport or are we tightening 1490 02:07:52,584 --> 02:07:53,484 that up a little bit? 1491 02:07:53,604 --> 02:07:55,724 We only have so much capacity, too. 1492 02:07:56,384 --> 02:07:58,184 We could take a 1493 02:07:59,384 --> 02:08:02,384 south end of Acushnet, if you will, because- 1494 02:08:02,424 --> 02:08:04,064 I'm talking about this regional meeting- 1495 02:08:04,744 --> 02:08:05,044 Oh 1496 02:08:05,054 --> 02:08:08,454 ... is what I'm talking about. So I don't know if that question is for you or if 1497 02:08:08,504 --> 02:08:09,544 it's for Mr. Tripillo. 1498 02:08:11,044 --> 02:08:13,304 I think there's two separate issues. 1499 02:08:14,504 --> 02:08:17,664 First, the issue on the waste removal, 1500 02:08:18,644 --> 02:08:22,244 I think that's separate from this conversation on the CSO discharge- 1501 02:08:22,284 --> 02:08:22,424 Yeah 1502 02:08:22,584 --> 02:08:23,184 ... in New Bedford. 1503 02:08:24,532 --> 02:08:28,312 That issue, for me, is an issue that we need to 1504 02:08:28,392 --> 02:08:31,772 bring in our colleagues from Wareham to Westport. 1505 02:08:31,782 --> 02:08:33,932 They were at that meeting that Buzzards Bay 1506 02:08:35,412 --> 02:08:39,252 had some year and a half, two years ago, because the water impacts the 1507 02:08:39,292 --> 02:08:41,252 whole South Coast community, so I would bring them in. 1508 02:08:41,892 --> 02:08:43,722 I'd bring in Falmouth and Bourne. 1509 02:08:43,892 --> 02:08:44,172 Thank you. 1510 02:08:44,372 --> 02:08:46,472 Because they're on the east side of Buzzards Bay. 1511 02:08:46,672 --> 02:08:46,932 Correct. 1512 02:08:47,162 --> 02:08:47,592 Are they not? 1513 02:08:48,012 --> 02:08:49,592 You're right, Mr. Saunders. So- 1514 02:08:49,632 --> 02:08:50,762 Can I follow up? 1515 02:08:51,042 --> 02:08:51,042 Yeah. 1516 02:08:51,072 --> 02:08:54,192 So as far as the wastewater, which is what you started talking about, which is 1517 02:08:54,212 --> 02:08:55,492 separate from the CSO, 1518 02:08:56,932 --> 02:08:59,752 that's where you're saying that there are particular communities that would be 1519 02:08:59,792 --> 02:09:00,672 involved in this conversation. 1520 02:09:00,792 --> 02:09:04,732 I'm talking about our plant. What he's talking about was New 1521 02:09:04,812 --> 02:09:07,892 Bedford's CSOs and their wastewater plant. 1522 02:09:10,612 --> 02:09:11,632 I guess I'm going to- 1523 02:09:11,832 --> 02:09:15,492 What Mr. Furtado-- There was two different conversations 1524 02:09:15,772 --> 02:09:19,612 with Mr. Ponte, and the primary one was the CSO. 1525 02:09:20,432 --> 02:09:22,392 But then we had a nice conversation. 1526 02:09:22,432 --> 02:09:26,232 He's a great guy, and he was having an open conversation with our 1527 02:09:26,252 --> 02:09:30,212 town administrator to say, "Mr. Hickey, something else that you need 1528 02:09:30,272 --> 02:09:33,692 to be thinking of with Mr. Furtado," because he thought highly of 1529 02:09:33,712 --> 02:09:35,272 Vinnie, "is 1530 02:09:36,772 --> 02:09:40,322 we don't know what we're going to be able to do with our waste," and it's referred 1531 02:09:40,352 --> 02:09:41,382 to as a cake, 1532 02:09:42,752 --> 02:09:44,732 with how that's transported out of the town. 1533 02:09:44,782 --> 02:09:48,452 So, that was the secondary issue that Mr. 1534 02:09:48,492 --> 02:09:51,752 Hickey apprised us on, that that's going to come down the road as a 1535 02:09:51,792 --> 02:09:52,632 cost. 1536 02:09:52,952 --> 02:09:53,512 Can I ask a quick- 1537 02:09:53,612 --> 02:09:53,892 Yes, sir. 1538 02:09:53,992 --> 02:09:55,352 Really quick. Mr. Trapillo, 1539 02:09:56,672 --> 02:10:00,192 what's being proposed tonight, tell me if this covers, to approve Selectboard 1540 02:10:00,272 --> 02:10:03,562 Member Trapillo to contact Senator Montigny and Representative 1541 02:10:03,652 --> 02:10:07,562 Silvia, seeking their assistance to set a meeting of South Coast elected and 1542 02:10:07,592 --> 02:10:11,512 appointed officials to discuss working together to address the cost to 1543 02:10:11,572 --> 02:10:12,532 dispose of wastewater. 1544 02:10:12,592 --> 02:10:12,912 That is- 1545 02:10:12,932 --> 02:10:13,652 Do you feel that covers it? 1546 02:10:13,692 --> 02:10:14,132 Yes, sir. 1547 02:10:14,172 --> 02:10:15,932 Okay. So, did you have something to add, or- 1548 02:10:16,162 --> 02:10:18,972 No, that's fine. I don't want to disagree with Vinnie. 1549 02:10:19,012 --> 02:10:19,252 I think 1550 02:10:20,732 --> 02:10:24,092 there's two issues, and the CSO, I think, was kind of pushed to the side a little 1551 02:10:24,172 --> 02:10:24,472 bit. 1552 02:10:24,512 --> 02:10:24,752 Yes. 1553 02:10:26,372 --> 02:10:30,292 I think what we're trying to find is a solution, a more economical 1554 02:10:30,372 --> 02:10:33,112 solution, to properly dispose of- 1555 02:10:33,612 --> 02:10:34,252 The waste 1556 02:10:34,492 --> 02:10:34,732 Right. 1557 02:10:34,752 --> 02:10:35,252 Yeah. 1558 02:10:35,332 --> 02:10:35,952 So what we feel- 1559 02:10:36,452 --> 02:10:40,412 And maybe I'm just naive, and Vinnie's more of an expert 1560 02:10:40,452 --> 02:10:40,772 than I, 1561 02:10:41,732 --> 02:10:44,772 the more communities we get involved, the less expensive it's going to be per 1562 02:10:44,852 --> 02:10:45,492 community. 1563 02:10:45,692 --> 02:10:46,252 100%. 1564 02:10:46,312 --> 02:10:46,932 Okay. 1565 02:10:47,032 --> 02:10:50,201 I think it's a matter of reaching out to whoever's interested in looking at this, 1566 02:10:51,112 --> 02:10:54,652 and it could be as far as Westport 1567 02:10:54,672 --> 02:10:56,392 to Wareham. 1568 02:10:58,932 --> 02:11:02,732 Every community who has a wastewater plant, my understanding is, is going to face 1569 02:11:02,752 --> 02:11:04,201 the same challenge as we're talking about. 1570 02:11:04,322 --> 02:11:05,052 100% agree. 1571 02:11:05,152 --> 02:11:09,112 So the more communities we can get in, I think the more economical, 1572 02:11:09,272 --> 02:11:11,382 and I think the better chance we have of getting some 1573 02:11:12,192 --> 02:11:13,981 state or federal monies to assist us. 1574 02:11:14,012 --> 02:11:17,152 So it seems like the board is pretty much in agreement. 1575 02:11:17,172 --> 02:11:17,872 Yep. 1576 02:11:18,332 --> 02:11:22,282 It seems as though the motion that we have drafted will cover what we're looking 1577 02:11:22,312 --> 02:11:23,292 to do as a first step. 1578 02:11:23,362 --> 02:11:23,552 Mm-hmm. 1579 02:11:23,692 --> 02:11:27,372 Does anyone have any questions regarding something that will pertain to this 1580 02:11:27,412 --> 02:11:29,352 motion, but maybe we haven't discussed tonight? 1581 02:11:29,972 --> 02:11:31,462 Or do I think this is good to get the ball- 1582 02:11:31,532 --> 02:11:32,302 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 1583 02:11:32,552 --> 02:11:36,212 Okay. I will entertain a motion to approve Selectboard Member Trapillo to 1584 02:11:36,252 --> 02:11:40,092 contact Senator Montigny and Representative Silvia, seeking their assistance to 1585 02:11:40,132 --> 02:11:44,052 set a meeting of South Coast elected and appointed officials to discuss working 1586 02:11:44,092 --> 02:11:47,112 together to address the cost to dispose of wastewater. 1587 02:11:47,492 --> 02:11:47,892 So moved. 1588 02:11:48,412 --> 02:11:48,672 Second. 1589 02:11:48,852 --> 02:11:51,712 Motions been made and seconded. Any further discussion on the motion? 1590 02:11:52,592 --> 02:11:55,492 Hearing none, all those in favor? Aye. Opposed? 1591 02:11:55,632 --> 02:11:57,292 Passes unanimously. Mr. Trapillo- 1592 02:11:57,632 --> 02:11:58,432 Thank you. 1593 02:11:58,472 --> 02:11:59,172 Get to work. 1594 02:12:00,752 --> 02:12:00,962 Thank you. 1595 02:12:00,962 --> 02:12:02,932 Thank you, Mr. Furtado, for being here tonight. 1596 02:12:02,992 --> 02:12:03,272 Thank you. 1597 02:12:03,282 --> 02:12:04,921 You're welcome, Mr. Trapillo. 1598 02:12:05,052 --> 02:12:06,232 Back to chemistry class. 1599 02:12:06,832 --> 02:12:07,552 Liquids and gases. 1600 02:12:07,562 --> 02:12:08,992 This is going on off of- 1601 02:12:09,072 --> 02:12:12,152 Uh-oh. Uh-oh. Come on, 8:00. 1602 02:12:12,692 --> 02:12:13,242 It's already 8:00. 1603 02:12:13,732 --> 02:12:14,432 Here's trouble. 1604 02:12:14,612 --> 02:12:15,492 Mr. Furtado, please. 1605 02:12:15,572 --> 02:12:15,772 Yeah. 1606 02:12:17,072 --> 02:12:19,932 Just two, because I heard a couple of things. 1607 02:12:20,972 --> 02:12:24,652 Bully lost the election because he decided to locate the 1608 02:12:24,692 --> 02:12:28,642 plant where it was, and where it is, not the standard time scale. 1609 02:12:28,792 --> 02:12:29,872 You remember that. 1610 02:12:30,052 --> 02:12:30,062 True. 1611 02:12:30,062 --> 02:12:33,852 The reason why this all came to a hullabaloo is because the Conservation Law 1612 02:12:33,952 --> 02:12:37,872 Foundation of New England sued the EPA for not imposing the 1613 02:12:37,912 --> 02:12:39,372 Clean Water Act in New Bedford. 1614 02:12:39,412 --> 02:12:40,171 We talked about that outside. 1615 02:12:40,192 --> 02:12:40,432 Okay. 1616 02:12:42,332 --> 02:12:45,872 And as part of all of that, the reason why there's a contract operator 1617 02:12:45,912 --> 02:12:48,852 there is because in lieu of a penalty, 1618 02:12:50,132 --> 02:12:53,942 in lieu of New Bedford being fined, they were forced, the first 1619 02:12:53,992 --> 02:12:57,732 seven years of operation, to have a contract operator. 1620 02:12:58,492 --> 02:13:00,962 And that's why they embarked on that. 1621 02:13:00,992 --> 02:13:02,712 It wasn't because it was any cheaper. 1622 02:13:03,112 --> 02:13:05,252 It was because that's what they were forced to do. 1623 02:13:05,722 --> 02:13:08,272 And they have a residency requirement over there. 1624 02:13:08,332 --> 02:13:09,902 And if you're a wastewater guy- 1625 02:13:10,112 --> 02:13:10,372 Yes, sir 1626 02:13:10,452 --> 02:13:13,012 ... and the city leaves you, where are you going to go? 1627 02:13:14,212 --> 02:13:16,652 So they took a lot of the employees. 1628 02:13:17,132 --> 02:13:20,832 So when the seven years had elapsed, where are these people going to go? 1629 02:13:21,132 --> 02:13:21,332 Away. 1630 02:13:21,372 --> 02:13:25,212 So they stayed there. And with the residency requirement, the city didn't have 1631 02:13:25,252 --> 02:13:26,352 enough folks to fill it. 1632 02:13:26,472 --> 02:13:26,962 Thank you. 1633 02:13:26,972 --> 02:13:30,552 But I wanted to make that clear, because I know somebody who lived through all of 1634 02:13:30,592 --> 02:13:30,972 that. 1635 02:13:30,992 --> 02:13:31,372 Here you go. 1636 02:13:31,692 --> 02:13:32,092 Thank you. 1637 02:13:32,952 --> 02:13:36,352 All right, moving back, we are going to go back to E2, discussion 1638 02:13:36,412 --> 02:13:39,152 on draft local aid letter. 1639 02:13:40,192 --> 02:13:44,072 Selectboard member, Rick Trapillo, will review a draft letter seeking the support 1640 02:13:44,132 --> 02:13:47,592 of other South Coast communities to forward to their legislative 1641 02:13:47,692 --> 02:13:50,422 delegation, seeking additional funding from the Commonwealth. 1642 02:13:50,492 --> 02:13:50,682 Thanks. 1643 02:13:51,412 --> 02:13:53,121 Mr. Trapillo, really quickly, 1644 02:13:54,472 --> 02:13:58,452 I did see an email from Ms. Hart asking if you had an 1645 02:13:58,512 --> 02:14:01,552 updated letter. We don't have anything in our packet tonight. 1646 02:14:01,732 --> 02:14:04,142 Would you like to table this conversation, or do you have something? 1647 02:14:04,192 --> 02:14:06,532 I think that letter would be counterproductive right now. 1648 02:14:07,292 --> 02:14:08,871 This is pertaining to local aid? 1649 02:14:09,832 --> 02:14:10,542 This is the local aid letter. 1650 02:14:10,552 --> 02:14:13,812 We're back to discussion on draft local aid letter, not the CSO. 1651 02:14:13,912 --> 02:14:15,212 Oh, I apologize. My- 1652 02:14:15,332 --> 02:14:15,992 But we don't have a- 1653 02:14:16,052 --> 02:14:16,792 Still thinking. 1654 02:14:16,872 --> 02:14:19,932 That's okay, but we don't have a draft letter today, so I don't know if it's been 1655 02:14:19,942 --> 02:14:19,942 updated. 1656 02:14:20,012 --> 02:14:21,212 I did not update it, 1657 02:14:22,132 --> 02:14:23,292 but it is September. 1658 02:14:24,252 --> 02:14:24,432 Yep. 1659 02:14:24,712 --> 02:14:28,612 We did say, I think when we first met in June, that we would look at it 1660 02:14:28,652 --> 02:14:29,452 this fall. 1661 02:14:30,100 --> 02:14:31,150 It's getting a little cooler. 1662 02:14:33,000 --> 02:14:36,910 I don't think it would hurt us to perhaps at our next meeting and 1663 02:14:36,940 --> 02:14:37,690 earn to say, 1664 02:14:38,920 --> 02:14:42,340 we need to do something to reach out to our elected officials to increase our 1665 02:14:42,800 --> 02:14:44,500 local funding. So, 1666 02:14:45,940 --> 02:14:49,640 I'm in favor of working with the draft that I submitted some time 1667 02:14:49,680 --> 02:14:53,480 ago or waiting to our next select board meeting. 1668 02:14:54,000 --> 02:14:55,280 But it's something I think we should do. 1669 02:14:55,340 --> 02:14:58,540 I think it's something that we could galvanize some support from our elected 1670 02:14:58,580 --> 02:14:59,760 officials to get funding. 1671 02:14:59,800 --> 02:15:00,720 Could you do me a favor? 1672 02:15:00,820 --> 02:15:01,120 Yes, sir. 1673 02:15:01,200 --> 02:15:05,050 Could you, after this meeting, but before the next one, go just 1674 02:15:05,080 --> 02:15:06,530 take one more pass through your letter- 1675 02:15:06,860 --> 02:15:07,050 Yes 1676 02:15:07,140 --> 02:15:09,740 ... make sure it's where you want it. Send it to Amy for us to review. 1677 02:15:09,780 --> 02:15:09,980 Okay. 1678 02:15:10,250 --> 02:15:12,320 And then that way we can vote on that. I agree with you. 1679 02:15:12,440 --> 02:15:14,780 I think we did say we're going to push it to the fall. 1680 02:15:15,720 --> 02:15:15,980 I think- 1681 02:15:16,180 --> 02:15:17,149 Done. I'll do that. Thank you. 1682 02:15:17,160 --> 02:15:20,270 Perfect. Just so that way we have it in front of us to go over. 1683 02:15:20,270 --> 02:15:20,899 I just have a question on this. 1684 02:15:20,940 --> 02:15:21,080 Yep. 1685 02:15:21,900 --> 02:15:22,300 Nope, you. 1686 02:15:22,400 --> 02:15:22,780 No, go ahead. 1687 02:15:22,810 --> 02:15:22,810 I'm sorry. 1688 02:15:24,020 --> 02:15:25,260 No, you're good. Go right ahead. 1689 02:15:25,860 --> 02:15:28,900 I was just curious because I know one of the things we talked about related to this 1690 02:15:29,040 --> 02:15:32,720 was sort of talking further with MMA about what their- 1691 02:15:33,180 --> 02:15:33,190 Mm-hmm 1692 02:15:33,260 --> 02:15:33,640 ... advocacy 1693 02:15:34,500 --> 02:15:37,600 sort of program, what they were planning on doing for the fall. 1694 02:15:38,700 --> 02:15:41,490 I don't know if you had had a chance to have that conversation or if there's 1695 02:15:41,520 --> 02:15:42,460 somebody that- 1696 02:15:42,740 --> 02:15:43,400 I haven't, but I can. 1697 02:15:44,060 --> 02:15:44,340 Yeah. 1698 02:15:44,400 --> 02:15:44,720 Yeah. 1699 02:15:44,820 --> 02:15:45,440 Would you be able to- 1700 02:15:45,470 --> 02:15:46,860 Share that with Mr. Trapelo. 1701 02:15:47,040 --> 02:15:48,130 Yeah, I think it would be helpful. 1702 02:15:48,130 --> 02:15:49,040 Prior to the next meeting? 1703 02:15:49,180 --> 02:15:49,440 Yes, sir. 1704 02:15:49,600 --> 02:15:50,660 Thank you. Mr. Savitz? 1705 02:15:50,700 --> 02:15:53,260 My only comment was, it's a timing comment. 1706 02:15:53,340 --> 02:15:54,760 I think it's a good time to do this now. 1707 02:15:55,540 --> 02:15:59,040 The budgets go into effect in July of a given year. 1708 02:15:59,610 --> 02:16:03,020 The governor will be submitting his or her budget, I think it's going to be a her 1709 02:16:03,060 --> 02:16:03,400 budget, 1710 02:16:04,940 --> 02:16:08,440 probably in January or February. They're writing that 1711 02:16:08,600 --> 02:16:09,620 budget currently, 1712 02:16:10,720 --> 02:16:14,340 so now is the time to sit down with members of her staff 1713 02:16:14,880 --> 02:16:18,740 presently that are writing that budget to say, "Hey, we need more local aid." But 1714 02:16:18,760 --> 02:16:19,820 yeah, the sooner the better. 1715 02:16:20,160 --> 02:16:20,720 So, if you could 1716 02:16:21,540 --> 02:16:24,980 contact MMA and you could send the draft, maybe you guys could discuss before 1717 02:16:25,020 --> 02:16:25,320 sending it- 1718 02:16:25,340 --> 02:16:25,410 Sure 1719 02:16:25,580 --> 02:16:27,520 ... to the board and then... Okay, excellent. 1720 02:16:27,640 --> 02:16:28,250 Good suggestion. 1721 02:16:28,540 --> 02:16:29,560 So we will table... 1722 02:16:30,420 --> 02:16:33,740 Well, I guess, do we have a motion to table E2? 1723 02:16:34,121 --> 02:16:34,480 Removed. 1724 02:16:34,660 --> 02:16:34,861 Second. 1725 02:16:34,960 --> 02:16:38,279 Motions are made and seconded for the discussion. All those in favor? 1726 02:16:38,701 --> 02:16:41,059 Aye. Passes unanimously. All right. 1727 02:16:41,660 --> 02:16:45,460 Up next, consider proposal to transition correspondence from the 1728 02:16:45,541 --> 02:16:48,300 select board agenda to the town website. 1729 02:16:48,441 --> 02:16:52,191 In support of the town administrators goals, specifically goal number five, 1730 02:16:52,660 --> 02:16:55,800 improve public communication and transparency, Ms. 1731 02:16:55,861 --> 02:16:59,680 Hart has proposed transitioning the board's correspondence from an agenda item to 1732 02:16:59,720 --> 02:17:03,330 the town's website. This initiative would provide a central 1733 02:17:03,380 --> 02:17:07,361 location and ongoing access versus searching through agendas, packets, 1734 02:17:07,420 --> 02:17:08,100 or attachments 1735 02:17:09,041 --> 02:17:12,630 into the board's minutes. The board's packet contains a memo outlining the 1736 02:17:12,701 --> 02:17:13,201 details 1737 02:17:14,140 --> 02:17:18,000 and benefits of this proposal. So just to provide you all just a 1738 02:17:18,060 --> 02:17:21,960 little bit more background, I had a conversation, it was brought 1739 02:17:21,980 --> 02:17:22,760 up by Ms. Hart, 1740 02:17:23,680 --> 02:17:27,420 just in an effort to avoid any confusion, but also 1741 02:17:29,041 --> 02:17:31,861 make this easier to find. I appreciate 1742 02:17:32,060 --> 02:17:35,600 her being very proactive with this and putting this 1743 02:17:35,621 --> 02:17:39,460 together. I know it seems like a small change, but I think it would 1744 02:17:39,820 --> 02:17:43,680 be very beneficial in the future, especially 1745 02:17:43,800 --> 02:17:47,420 as items keep coming back around. This will put a central 1746 02:17:47,480 --> 02:17:50,861 location instead of saying, "We discussed that sometime in 1747 02:17:50,980 --> 02:17:54,281 2024, dig in." It'll all be there. So any 1748 02:17:54,361 --> 02:17:56,660 further questions from the board, or did that pretty much- 1749 02:17:56,740 --> 02:17:57,621 I think it's a good idea. 1750 02:17:58,240 --> 02:17:59,441 Questions from the board on this side? 1751 02:18:00,520 --> 02:18:01,380 All right. Hearing none, 1752 02:18:02,340 --> 02:18:05,861 I will entertain a motion to approve to transition board correspondence 1753 02:18:06,300 --> 02:18:10,260 from the select board agenda to the town website, providing a central location for 1754 02:18:10,361 --> 02:18:11,281 access to the public. 1755 02:18:11,560 --> 02:18:13,600 We got it. 1756 02:18:13,680 --> 02:18:14,900 Oh, sorry. Oh, 1757 02:18:16,020 --> 02:18:18,121 Ms. Carr? 1758 02:18:24,121 --> 02:18:24,800 Hi. Thank you. 1759 02:18:26,340 --> 02:18:26,781 Can you hear me? 1760 02:18:27,220 --> 02:18:29,000 Yes. Do you have your name and address for the record, please? 1761 02:18:29,500 --> 02:18:32,260 Erin Carr, A Marina Drive, Mattapoisett. 1762 02:18:32,941 --> 02:18:36,240 I was curious if the board would consider keeping it in a 1763 02:18:36,281 --> 02:18:39,810 centralized location, but also keeping it on 1764 02:18:39,900 --> 02:18:43,861 the select board's packet, since some residents go through the 1765 02:18:43,900 --> 02:18:47,460 packets, and it helps them become aware of certain 1766 02:18:47,500 --> 02:18:47,900 things. 1767 02:18:49,020 --> 02:18:52,900 Otherwise, they'd have to proactively be going on the website 1768 02:18:53,201 --> 02:18:57,041 and might not consider doing that, or remember to do that. 1769 02:18:58,740 --> 02:19:02,640 I think the thought process is that this would be in a similar spot, like it 1770 02:19:02,660 --> 02:19:06,320 would be sort of instead of where you would go to find the packet, you would go 1771 02:19:06,580 --> 02:19:07,220 here instead. 1772 02:19:07,250 --> 02:19:07,250 Okay. 1773 02:19:07,281 --> 02:19:10,340 So it would be kind of the same process for pulling it up. 1774 02:19:11,260 --> 02:19:12,050 It'd actually be easier. 1775 02:19:12,060 --> 02:19:16,020 Yeah, it would be easier than having to search through the packet. 1776 02:19:17,640 --> 02:19:18,900 Does anyone on the board have any- 1777 02:19:19,020 --> 02:19:19,361 No. 1778 02:19:21,201 --> 02:19:23,441 I like the transparency issue, and I like the ease issue. 1779 02:19:24,800 --> 02:19:26,180 Okay. So just to make sure. 1780 02:19:28,320 --> 02:19:29,400 Do we have a motion? 1781 02:19:31,281 --> 02:19:31,350 So moved. 1782 02:19:31,350 --> 02:19:32,121 Second. 1783 02:19:32,340 --> 02:19:34,680 Motions are made and seconded. Any further discussion? 1784 02:19:35,660 --> 02:19:39,380 All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Passes 1785 02:19:39,460 --> 02:19:42,740 unanimously. Moving on. Town administrator report, Mr. Hickey. 1786 02:19:42,960 --> 02:19:45,910 Mr. Chair, just to let the board know, I attended the first 1787 02:19:46,960 --> 02:19:50,660 budget working group meeting on September 8th, and the members 1788 02:19:50,700 --> 02:19:52,790 agreed to meet every other week on Tuesday evenings. 1789 02:19:53,570 --> 02:19:56,640 The next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 22nd. 1790 02:19:57,620 --> 02:20:00,500 Anne Carrero and I plan to attend each of those meetings. 1791 02:20:01,420 --> 02:20:05,160 Unfortunately, our conservation agent, Kelly Camara, 1792 02:20:05,580 --> 02:20:07,220 has put in her resignation letter. 1793 02:20:07,420 --> 02:20:09,120 I believe we have a question on that, Adam. 1794 02:20:09,160 --> 02:20:12,340 Sorry. I was just curious as to whether the budget working group may determine who 1795 02:20:12,360 --> 02:20:13,020 their chair is. 1796 02:20:13,460 --> 02:20:15,060 Yes. Ken Blanchard is the chair. 1797 02:20:16,740 --> 02:20:18,140 Thank you. 1798 02:20:18,180 --> 02:20:21,760 Mr. Lopes is the vice chair, and Mr. Gallagher is the clerk. Perfect. 1799 02:20:22,720 --> 02:20:23,040 Thank you. 1800 02:20:25,580 --> 02:20:28,680 Our conservation agent, Kelly Camara, has unfortunately tendered her resignation. 1801 02:20:28,740 --> 02:20:30,340 Her last day of employment was last week. 1802 02:20:31,140 --> 02:20:33,700 We are looking at different options to fill that role 1803 02:20:35,172 --> 02:20:36,832 The building commissioner, the health agent. 1804 02:20:37,392 --> 02:20:38,692 Do you mind if I add something really quick? 1805 02:20:38,722 --> 02:20:38,972 Agreed. 1806 02:20:39,852 --> 02:20:42,462 In a similar timeline, 1807 02:20:44,152 --> 02:20:47,592 it sort of happened reversed. We had a conservation agent, and we had a 1808 02:20:47,612 --> 02:20:51,432 planning director resign. That sort of became a land use thing. 1809 02:20:52,052 --> 02:20:55,272 Now we're seeing the reverse, where we have a new planner and the conservation 1810 02:20:55,332 --> 02:20:59,252 agent is resigning. I just want to stress, I don't think it would be a 1811 02:20:59,272 --> 02:21:01,782 good idea to go back to that land use agreement. 1812 02:21:01,782 --> 02:21:01,782 Agreed. 1813 02:21:01,852 --> 02:21:04,062 Okay. I just wanted to put that out there because- 1814 02:21:04,252 --> 02:21:04,612 I appreciate that 1815 02:21:04,892 --> 02:21:06,992 ... I don't think that would be... I think it'd be going backwards. 1816 02:21:07,452 --> 02:21:08,172 No, I appreciate that. 1817 02:21:08,252 --> 02:21:08,531 Thank you. 1818 02:21:10,392 --> 02:21:12,892 Our building commissioner, health agent, public works director, and I will be 1819 02:21:12,912 --> 02:21:15,792 hosting a meeting tomorrow night, West Island residents, 1820 02:21:16,692 --> 02:21:20,662 here at the town office building at 6:00 to discuss their concerns over current and 1821 02:21:20,732 --> 02:21:24,052 possible future development and the impact on the environment it's having on and 1822 02:21:24,072 --> 02:21:24,732 around the island. 1823 02:21:26,952 --> 02:21:28,452 It'll be held upstairs in the auditorium. 1824 02:21:29,132 --> 02:21:31,772 I don't have a number of how many people are going to be there at this point, but 1825 02:21:32,232 --> 02:21:35,792 I've asked if they could provide us a ballpark so we can make sure we've got the 1826 02:21:35,832 --> 02:21:36,412 room set up 1827 02:21:37,252 --> 02:21:38,092 to have enough people. 1828 02:21:39,512 --> 02:21:40,772 Hoping it'll be a productive meeting. 1829 02:21:41,032 --> 02:21:41,272 Yes. 1830 02:21:41,632 --> 02:21:43,072 And continue to fast forward, I feel- 1831 02:21:43,172 --> 02:21:44,992 I just wanted to make a comment to the board on that. 1832 02:21:45,112 --> 02:21:47,771 I know we have all been contacted by members of West Island. 1833 02:21:48,652 --> 02:21:52,492 If you're planning on attending this meeting, please let 1834 02:21:52,692 --> 02:21:56,452 Mr. Hickey know, because right now we do not have a posted select board meeting. 1835 02:21:57,012 --> 02:21:59,832 So if we have more than three of us- 1836 02:22:00,172 --> 02:22:01,071 Well, the two of you. 1837 02:22:01,332 --> 02:22:05,052 More than two of us go for a discussion that we've all already started 1838 02:22:05,112 --> 02:22:06,832 engaging in, I'm not. We- 1839 02:22:07,712 --> 02:22:10,252 So I'm planning on going, because I was the one who invited Mr. 1840 02:22:10,272 --> 02:22:12,792 Hickey to the meeting on West Island that we had. 1841 02:22:13,012 --> 02:22:14,632 So I would like to follow up with that. 1842 02:22:16,192 --> 02:22:19,642 I would like to attend. So if either of you were also planning on attending- 1843 02:22:19,752 --> 02:22:20,552 I'm going to be out of town. 1844 02:22:20,582 --> 02:22:22,692 And I'm going to be in a library trustee. So, all right. 1845 02:22:22,732 --> 02:22:25,192 So you two will be good to attend, and we won't have to post a meeting. 1846 02:22:25,592 --> 02:22:26,292 Thank you, Mr. Hickey. 1847 02:22:26,452 --> 02:22:29,432 No worries. Hopefully it's a productive meeting. 1848 02:22:30,972 --> 02:22:34,912 There's a lot of questions that I think that they have, and hoping 1849 02:22:34,952 --> 02:22:36,712 that they get a lot of answers out to them, 1850 02:22:38,212 --> 02:22:39,772 so at least they understand the process. 1851 02:22:40,072 --> 02:22:42,812 May not always agree with everything that's being said, but at least they'll have a 1852 02:22:42,852 --> 02:22:43,752 better understanding. 1853 02:22:44,932 --> 02:22:48,652 The latest appeal on the sale of the Rogers School was held on 1854 02:22:48,692 --> 02:22:52,252 September 10th. Attorney Wade indicated that the judges on the panel 1855 02:22:52,272 --> 02:22:55,812 were well-informed and hopeful of the decision we made in favor of the town. 1856 02:22:55,872 --> 02:22:57,812 She felt good about the presentation. 1857 02:22:58,472 --> 02:23:02,262 The appeals court takes typically about 130 days to render a decision, so we're 1858 02:23:02,292 --> 02:23:03,242 looking at sometime around 1859 02:23:04,292 --> 02:23:07,052 January, unfortunately for that. 1860 02:23:07,512 --> 02:23:11,032 And I also was invited to attend a business 1861 02:23:11,152 --> 02:23:14,552 breakfast and panel discussion that's been organized by 1862 02:23:14,852 --> 02:23:17,052 Senator Mark Silvia, I apologize for the typo, 1863 02:23:18,312 --> 02:23:21,372 and the Economic Development Committee on Thursday the 17th of September. 1864 02:23:22,262 --> 02:23:25,341 The Vice President of Business Development for Mass Development and the Regional 1865 02:23:25,412 --> 02:23:26,992 Director of the South Coast, 1866 02:23:29,612 --> 02:23:32,492 Cape and Islands, another typo, sorry, 1867 02:23:33,352 --> 02:23:36,802 for Massachusetts Office of Business Development will be guest speakers. 1868 02:23:37,452 --> 02:23:41,092 Anne and I have had meetings already with the two 1869 02:23:41,132 --> 02:23:45,052 individuals from the Commonwealth about some of the local 1870 02:23:45,912 --> 02:23:49,832 commercial properties that are in town, both in the 40R districts and 1871 02:23:50,292 --> 02:23:53,532 as well as some other properties that are eligible to be developed. 1872 02:23:53,592 --> 02:23:57,472 So we're looking forward to putting some faces with names and attending that 1873 02:23:57,512 --> 02:24:00,732 meeting, and hopefully garnering some interest in ferry. 1874 02:24:01,792 --> 02:24:03,292 Be happy to answer any questions anybody has. 1875 02:24:05,052 --> 02:24:05,872 Questions from the board? 1876 02:24:06,792 --> 02:24:06,992 All right. 1877 02:24:07,292 --> 02:24:07,632 Well, thank you. 1878 02:24:07,662 --> 02:24:10,952 With that, we will be moving on to board member items, committee liaison reports. 1879 02:24:10,972 --> 02:24:11,672 Mr. Sanders. 1880 02:24:11,822 --> 02:24:14,662 I don't have anything to add. Didn't have any meetings that 1881 02:24:14,932 --> 02:24:17,892 occurred. Marine Resources was canceled. 1882 02:24:17,952 --> 02:24:21,621 There was a conflict with the harbor master. Thank you. 1883 02:24:21,621 --> 02:24:22,372 Thank you. Ms. Keches. 1884 02:24:23,932 --> 02:24:27,382 There is an EDC meeting this week. I unfortunately will be away, 1885 02:24:27,752 --> 02:24:31,672 so I don't have anything to add. They have not met since 1886 02:24:31,772 --> 02:24:33,052 the meeting 1887 02:24:33,972 --> 02:24:34,212 Mm-hmm. 1888 02:24:34,272 --> 02:24:37,152 So, I did have a question, though. 1889 02:24:37,612 --> 02:24:38,382 Mm-hmm. 1890 02:24:38,732 --> 02:24:41,952 As we are proceeding and we talked about having the joint 1891 02:24:42,072 --> 02:24:44,872 meetings with Fin Com and school committee, 1892 02:24:45,872 --> 02:24:49,592 have we made any decisions about sort of like the format and the things that 1893 02:24:49,612 --> 02:24:51,832 we're going to discuss at those meetings and- 1894 02:24:52,112 --> 02:24:52,352 Yes 1895 02:24:52,952 --> 02:24:55,882 ... and when they're happening and all of that? 1896 02:24:56,052 --> 02:24:57,412 Like, where are we at with it? 1897 02:24:58,432 --> 02:24:58,632 So, 1898 02:24:59,872 --> 02:25:01,012 I reached out to the school, 1899 02:25:04,232 --> 02:25:04,832 more than once. 1900 02:25:05,512 --> 02:25:05,562 Mm-hmm. 1901 02:25:05,562 --> 02:25:06,432 Asking for 1902 02:25:08,052 --> 02:25:11,902 your interest and a timeline. I've given 1903 02:25:11,932 --> 02:25:13,172 them a couple of dates. 1904 02:25:13,432 --> 02:25:13,682 Mm-hmm. 1905 02:25:13,992 --> 02:25:16,572 Late September, which will have to be revised to October. 1906 02:25:16,872 --> 02:25:17,372 Yeah. 1907 02:25:17,412 --> 02:25:21,302 I haven't heard back. The finance committee, I'm sure, is absolutely going to 1908 02:25:21,332 --> 02:25:24,732 need and is going to do that for the challenging board or the 1909 02:25:25,572 --> 02:25:26,612 board that I think is going to 1910 02:25:28,052 --> 02:25:31,412 have more of a challenge in trying to establish a meeting date with the school 1911 02:25:31,472 --> 02:25:31,792 committee. 1912 02:25:31,852 --> 02:25:31,981 Mm-hmm. 1913 02:25:32,412 --> 02:25:35,862 I'm hoping that at their meeting Wednesday evening we'll have that 1914 02:25:35,912 --> 02:25:37,792 discussion and try to 1915 02:25:39,272 --> 02:25:40,172 provide some dates- 1916 02:25:40,612 --> 02:25:40,652 Mm-hmm 1917 02:25:40,671 --> 02:25:42,492 ... to the select board. I think that 1918 02:25:45,712 --> 02:25:49,552 we've had it once. There were some good points and bad points probably with 1919 02:25:49,612 --> 02:25:51,032 that, and if we can try to take 1920 02:25:51,832 --> 02:25:54,981 away and figure out how to improve on those. 1921 02:25:55,132 --> 02:25:56,682 Mm-hmm. 1922 02:25:56,852 --> 02:26:00,052 And I don't know of any format that's really been formally discussed and decided 1923 02:26:00,072 --> 02:26:03,192 upon. Whatever, hopefully, it's just going to be an open, honest 1924 02:26:04,772 --> 02:26:07,312 conversation about where we stand and what the goals are. 1925 02:26:07,792 --> 02:26:08,992 Okay. Thank you. 1926 02:26:10,072 --> 02:26:13,902 I did happen to have a quick conversation with the chair of the school committee, 1927 02:26:13,992 --> 02:26:17,812 not related necessarily to this, but just mentioned that we had 1928 02:26:17,852 --> 02:26:19,402 been having conversations- 1929 02:26:20,422 --> 02:26:24,232 ... and keeping it open to look forward to the opportunity- 1930 02:26:24,292 --> 02:26:24,302 Great 1931 02:26:24,302 --> 02:26:24,752 ... to have this. 1932 02:26:25,652 --> 02:26:29,592 So I know that in their budget process, typically they're just in 1933 02:26:29,612 --> 02:26:32,752 the early stages developing the upcoming year's budget. 1934 02:26:32,772 --> 02:26:33,112 Mm-hmm. 1935 02:26:34,976 --> 02:26:38,736 I think my comment would be that they may not be as far along 1936 02:26:38,796 --> 02:26:38,976 as 1937 02:26:39,856 --> 02:26:42,216 perhaps we might be in terms of thinking 1938 02:26:43,056 --> 02:26:43,616 ahead, but 1939 02:26:44,676 --> 02:26:46,616 just knowing how that process typically works. 1940 02:26:47,316 --> 02:26:50,996 So I would just, if there's anything I can do to help facilitate that- 1941 02:26:51,036 --> 02:26:51,046 Sure 1942 02:26:51,046 --> 02:26:51,956 ... I'm happy to do that. 1943 02:26:52,176 --> 02:26:52,436 Sure. 1944 02:26:52,856 --> 02:26:56,756 Yeah, and look forward to seeing what 1945 02:26:57,156 --> 02:26:57,746 road that takes. 1946 02:26:59,456 --> 02:27:03,056 Starting early and being clear about the parameters and 1947 02:27:03,796 --> 02:27:05,446 who's got what responsibility- 1948 02:27:05,496 --> 02:27:05,506 Mm 1949 02:27:05,506 --> 02:27:09,496 ... and all of that, I think is really helpful in thinking about where 1950 02:27:09,556 --> 02:27:12,096 we have to go and the obligations that we have- 1951 02:27:12,196 --> 02:27:12,206 Absolutely 1952 02:27:12,736 --> 02:27:15,276 ... in terms of unions and all of that. 1953 02:27:15,356 --> 02:27:17,026 So thanks, Paula. 1954 02:27:18,276 --> 02:27:19,406 Yeah. So I've been 1955 02:27:20,756 --> 02:27:20,996 busy. 1956 02:27:21,016 --> 02:27:21,436 Busy. 1957 02:27:24,016 --> 02:27:27,456 I attended the Commission on Disability, which met on 1958 02:27:27,656 --> 02:27:31,456 September 10th. They will meet again on October 1959 02:27:31,776 --> 02:27:31,896 8th. 1960 02:27:33,276 --> 02:27:35,396 There weren't any major issues that 1961 02:27:36,816 --> 02:27:40,646 need to be reported on. I also went to the Historical 1962 02:27:40,756 --> 02:27:44,476 Commission meeting, which was on September 1963 02:27:44,636 --> 02:27:48,156 8th, and I do want to make people aware 1964 02:27:48,776 --> 02:27:52,476 that Chris Kelly, who was the former director of the local 1965 02:27:52,556 --> 02:27:56,036 government programs at the Massachusetts Historical Commission, he has been hired 1966 02:27:56,056 --> 02:27:59,876 as a consultant to the town through CPC funds, 1967 02:28:01,216 --> 02:28:04,916 to help to update the survey of historical properties 1968 02:28:04,956 --> 02:28:07,656 throughout town. So he has already been to town. 1969 02:28:07,696 --> 02:28:10,656 You may see people out taking photos, but he's going to be doing a 1970 02:28:10,676 --> 02:28:14,516 presentation on October 20th at 6:00 1971 02:28:14,596 --> 02:28:17,156 in Town Hall that's open to everyone. 1972 02:28:17,236 --> 02:28:21,216 So he will be explaining what he's doing, what's supposed to come out of it, 1973 02:28:21,276 --> 02:28:23,666 and if you have any questions or any interest in that, 1974 02:28:24,516 --> 02:28:24,956 please 1975 02:28:25,816 --> 02:28:26,836 attend that meeting. 1976 02:28:29,096 --> 02:28:32,296 I will be attending the SRTA meeting 1977 02:28:33,116 --> 02:28:36,076 next week on September 24th at 2:00. 1978 02:28:36,096 --> 02:28:39,476 And then just that meeting that I attended on Ross Island on 1979 02:28:39,836 --> 02:28:43,336 September 3rd with five folks that has 1980 02:28:43,396 --> 02:28:45,855 progressed to this meeting that Mr. Hickey has coordinated. 1981 02:28:46,436 --> 02:28:46,656 So 1982 02:28:47,836 --> 02:28:48,716 that's what I've been up to. 1983 02:28:49,166 --> 02:28:49,166 Busy. 1984 02:28:50,106 --> 02:28:50,106 Mr. Cannella? 1985 02:28:50,496 --> 02:28:52,356 Three updates. Thank you again, Mr. 1986 02:28:52,576 --> 02:28:56,056 Hickey, for allowing me to go to the meeting with Mr. Jamie Point. 1987 02:28:56,876 --> 02:29:00,796 Meetings like that can only be helpful to both the town 1988 02:29:00,816 --> 02:29:03,316 of Fairhaven and the city of New Bedford. 1989 02:29:04,076 --> 02:29:06,856 Not to belabor it, but the issue with the CSO, 1990 02:29:07,736 --> 02:29:10,816 I think the board's made the right decision with how we proceed, and thank you, Ms. 1991 02:29:10,896 --> 02:29:12,546 Keichler, for that advice. 1992 02:29:13,476 --> 02:29:17,296 Also, the secondary conversations that come out were invaluable 1993 02:29:17,356 --> 02:29:21,276 with the disposal of the cake and why they still keep 1994 02:29:21,376 --> 02:29:23,776 that wastewater treatment plant privatized. 1995 02:29:24,636 --> 02:29:27,086 The second meeting I had was with CIRPTED. 1996 02:29:27,536 --> 02:29:31,476 I am on the nomination committee for their commissioners, and we did select 1997 02:29:31,485 --> 02:29:35,056 the nominees that will be announced next week at their gala dinner. 1998 02:29:35,126 --> 02:29:38,536 So if anybody wants to attend that, it's kind of a fun night. 1999 02:29:39,216 --> 02:29:43,196 Mr. Mark Silvia, Representative Silvia, will be a guest speaker, so that's 2000 02:29:43,256 --> 02:29:47,196 a nice event. And lastly, I want to thank the board 2001 02:29:47,256 --> 02:29:50,816 sincerely for supporting the budget working group. 2002 02:29:53,096 --> 02:29:56,826 I was sitting there and looking at the quality of the people 2003 02:29:57,656 --> 02:30:01,396 that the town had stepped forward to volunteer their 2004 02:30:01,456 --> 02:30:01,716 time, 2005 02:30:02,596 --> 02:30:04,496 and I was so impressed. 2006 02:30:05,516 --> 02:30:08,776 Every one of them understood the severity of the situation. Mr. 2007 02:30:08,976 --> 02:30:12,876 Hickey gave a great presentation on the budget. Thank you. Mr. 2008 02:30:13,076 --> 02:30:17,016 Hickey answered some pretty tough questions in terms of where he would look at 2009 02:30:17,556 --> 02:30:19,036 for some out-of-the-box thinking. 2010 02:30:19,916 --> 02:30:23,236 And everybody on the group said that they're looking not to be FinCom 2011 02:30:23,456 --> 02:30:27,346 2.0, but to really look at contributing new ideas to 2012 02:30:27,416 --> 02:30:31,176 the long-term health and viability of the 2013 02:30:31,216 --> 02:30:35,156 town. And everybody spoke from their hearts, stating that they 2014 02:30:35,176 --> 02:30:39,096 have children, they have grandchildren, and they're doing this for those grandkids. 2015 02:30:39,176 --> 02:30:41,716 So it was really quite a group of people. 2016 02:30:42,236 --> 02:30:44,956 So we did elect a chair, Mr. Blanchard, 2017 02:30:46,076 --> 02:30:47,216 a vice chair, Mr.- 2018 02:30:49,656 --> 02:30:50,266 Lopes 2019 02:30:50,266 --> 02:30:53,345 ... Lopes, sorry, and clerk, Mr. Gallagher. 2020 02:30:53,895 --> 02:30:55,296 So we're meeting. 2021 02:30:56,196 --> 02:30:59,256 Mr. Hickey has already sent out some information on the town of Dedham 2022 02:31:00,056 --> 02:31:04,036 for their budget working group, because so many municipalities are facing this 2023 02:31:04,136 --> 02:31:07,736 issue. So thank you again to this board for putting that group 2024 02:31:07,756 --> 02:31:09,556 together, and now the work begins. 2025 02:31:12,016 --> 02:31:15,916 For myself, no sustainability meeting yet, but we do have a Halloween 2026 02:31:16,056 --> 02:31:19,936 costume swap Dropbox in the lobby 2027 02:31:19,976 --> 02:31:22,316 of the town hall and also in other town buildings. 2028 02:31:23,176 --> 02:31:26,816 The Library Board of Trustees meeting is tomorrow. I will be attending that. 2029 02:31:27,476 --> 02:31:31,316 Belonging committee, like I had mentioned in a previous meeting, had taken some 2030 02:31:31,376 --> 02:31:34,496 time off, but we'll be revamping and meeting in 2031 02:31:35,916 --> 02:31:39,876 October. I do have, and I don't believe this is something 2032 02:31:39,916 --> 02:31:43,836 that we can vote on tonight, Ms. Hart, unless you can clarify, but I 2033 02:31:43,896 --> 02:31:46,736 do believe it would be in the board's best interest to 2034 02:31:47,956 --> 02:31:50,666 formally dissolve the Dog Park Study Committee. 2035 02:31:51,936 --> 02:31:55,806 We have had such a challenge getting members and 2036 02:31:55,996 --> 02:31:59,816 a lot of frustration from members who have stepped up and not been 2037 02:31:59,896 --> 02:32:02,936 able to do anything because we've been unable to get a quorum. 2038 02:32:02,976 --> 02:32:06,336 And I think now that we are seeking applicants for 2039 02:32:06,476 --> 02:32:09,636 positions, it would be in our best interest to just sort of say we're no longer 2040 02:32:09,716 --> 02:32:11,196 seeking applicants for that committee. 2041 02:32:12,056 --> 02:32:15,896 We don't have the funds to start a dog park right now, and I think that the 2042 02:32:15,956 --> 02:32:19,836 BPW has been tasked with doing an overhaul of the parks and doing a 2043 02:32:19,916 --> 02:32:23,276 study there. So I think that's an opportunity for it to come back if it ever needs 2044 02:32:23,316 --> 02:32:24,626 to. Do we 2045 02:32:26,556 --> 02:32:27,516 need to vote on that or? 2046 02:32:28,476 --> 02:32:29,116 Okay, so 2047 02:32:30,276 --> 02:32:31,956 just a thought from the board. I don't know if you 2048 02:32:32,856 --> 02:32:35,036 have any strong feelings either way, send it my way. 2049 02:32:36,036 --> 02:32:37,496 Office hours I had today, 2050 02:32:38,456 --> 02:32:42,116 I would call it another success. I had four total attendees. 2051 02:32:42,900 --> 02:32:44,600 Three in person, one on Zoom. 2052 02:32:45,800 --> 02:32:48,320 Nice full discussion, a lot of it surrounding 2053 02:32:49,480 --> 02:32:51,000 traffic on Route 6, 2054 02:32:52,940 --> 02:32:54,940 specifically during 2055 02:32:56,520 --> 02:32:59,880 the turn off of Mill Road and the turn off of over 2056 02:32:59,890 --> 02:33:03,460 near East Haven Schools. I said I would send these concerns 2057 02:33:03,560 --> 02:33:07,000 over to the proper areas. And also just about 2058 02:33:07,080 --> 02:33:09,340 how we make our appointments, 2059 02:33:10,540 --> 02:33:12,580 and questions surrounding the appointment process. 2060 02:33:12,640 --> 02:33:16,440 So that was good to be able to have those conversations. Do you have a comment? 2061 02:33:17,400 --> 02:33:18,730 I have an addition to what I said. 2062 02:33:18,760 --> 02:33:22,700 Okay. And then the last thing I just want to put out is just a reminder to 2063 02:33:22,740 --> 02:33:25,060 the board, as per our protocols, 2064 02:33:26,020 --> 02:33:29,680 make sure that you're sending requests for department heads, 2065 02:33:30,300 --> 02:33:33,940 either to Mr. Hickey to facilitate to department heads or to 2066 02:33:33,980 --> 02:33:37,880 myself to pass to the appropriate channels to try to set 2067 02:33:37,920 --> 02:33:41,520 up to put on an agenda. We want to make sure that we're not sending 2068 02:33:41,600 --> 02:33:45,360 requests to department heads directly, as such to not give kind of confusion on 2069 02:33:45,380 --> 02:33:46,639 where the orders are coming from. 2070 02:33:46,720 --> 02:33:46,830 Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. 2071 02:33:48,260 --> 02:33:51,300 But so that was just a request I said I would mention 2072 02:33:52,180 --> 02:33:53,420 before. Do you have one more thing to add? 2073 02:33:53,980 --> 02:33:55,940 I did, and I wonder if we can add this to it. 2074 02:33:56,000 --> 02:33:59,760 I don't expect a conversation about it, but I wonder if we could add this to a 2075 02:33:59,820 --> 02:34:03,000 future agenda, is I've been asked by more than one constituent 2076 02:34:03,040 --> 02:34:05,940 about if we have any policies on AI. 2077 02:34:06,680 --> 02:34:06,870 Mm-hmm. 2078 02:34:07,540 --> 02:34:10,720 And so nobody's prepared to talk about it tonight, 2079 02:34:11,220 --> 02:34:12,880 but I will write something. 2080 02:34:12,920 --> 02:34:13,760 Maybe type something in if you want. 2081 02:34:14,360 --> 02:34:15,640 I can go to ChatGPT. 2082 02:34:16,760 --> 02:34:19,280 What I would ask, if you could just send to- 2083 02:34:20,060 --> 02:34:20,940 You and Mr. Hickey 2084 02:34:21,200 --> 02:34:22,100 ... Mr. Hickey and myself as well. 2085 02:34:22,130 --> 02:34:22,200 Yep. 2086 02:34:22,240 --> 02:34:25,700 Just sort of specifically what you're like, is it how it 2087 02:34:25,720 --> 02:34:29,340 pertains to board and committees? Is it who's using it? Is it when it can be used? 2088 02:34:29,400 --> 02:34:31,660 Just so that way we have some guidelines on the conversation. 2089 02:34:31,940 --> 02:34:32,570 Happy to, thank you. 2090 02:34:32,600 --> 02:34:35,920 Because I think if we have an overarching AI conversation, we'll be here well past 2091 02:34:36,020 --> 02:34:36,280 8:05. 2092 02:34:36,320 --> 02:34:36,800 Yep. 2093 02:34:38,120 --> 02:34:40,970 Anything else to add for board and committee members? Good to move on? 2094 02:34:41,890 --> 02:34:42,080 All right. 2095 02:34:42,920 --> 02:34:46,720 We have our minutes. We have to accept the open 2096 02:34:46,760 --> 02:34:49,080 session minutes of August 24th, 2026. 2097 02:34:49,120 --> 02:34:53,080 I'll entertain a motion to accept the open session minutes as 2098 02:34:53,139 --> 02:34:53,620 presented. 2099 02:34:53,740 --> 02:34:54,120 Moved. 2100 02:34:54,220 --> 02:34:54,440 Second. 2101 02:34:54,720 --> 02:34:56,870 Motions are made and seconded. Any further discussion? 2102 02:34:57,560 --> 02:34:59,570 Hearing none, all those in favor? Aye. 2103 02:35:00,030 --> 02:35:00,030 Aye. 2104 02:35:00,060 --> 02:35:03,709 Opposed? Passes unanimously. Next, we have executive 2105 02:35:03,780 --> 02:35:07,480 session minutes. I will entertain a motion to accept the executive session minutes 2106 02:35:07,520 --> 02:35:10,700 of August 24th, 2026 as presented. 2107 02:35:11,120 --> 02:35:11,420 Moved. 2108 02:35:11,600 --> 02:35:11,860 Second. 2109 02:35:12,240 --> 02:35:14,489 Motions are made and seconded. Any further discussion? 2110 02:35:14,900 --> 02:35:16,600 Hearing none, all those in favor? 2111 02:35:16,640 --> 02:35:17,980 Aye. 2112 02:35:17,989 --> 02:35:17,989 Aye. 2113 02:35:18,020 --> 02:35:21,460 We have email, Moore Town's pause/terminate flock 2114 02:35:21,500 --> 02:35:24,240 agreements. Office of Attorney General open meeting log 2115 02:35:24,500 --> 02:35:28,280 2026-112. I will entertain a motion to 2116 02:35:28,320 --> 02:35:30,900 accept the correspondence as listed on the agenda. 2117 02:35:31,100 --> 02:35:31,620 Moved. 2118 02:35:31,700 --> 02:35:32,000 Second. 2119 02:35:32,460 --> 02:35:34,800 Motions are made and seconded. Any further discussion? 2120 02:35:35,540 --> 02:35:37,820 Hearing none, all those in favor? Aye. 2121 02:35:37,960 --> 02:35:38,180 Aye. 2122 02:35:38,190 --> 02:35:38,190 Aye. 2123 02:35:38,200 --> 02:35:40,580 Any opposed? Passes unanimously. 2124 02:35:41,040 --> 02:35:44,960 Our next regularly scheduled select board meeting is Monday, September 28th, 2125 02:35:45,180 --> 02:35:48,950 2026 at 6:00 PM. Lastly, we have an executive session. 2126 02:35:49,020 --> 02:35:52,800 I will entertain a motion to enter into executive session pursuant to 2127 02:35:52,840 --> 02:35:55,660 General Law Chapter 30A, subsection 2128 02:35:55,800 --> 02:35:59,769 21A3, to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining 2129 02:35:59,800 --> 02:36:03,460 or litigation if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect 2130 02:36:03,920 --> 02:36:07,160 on the bargaining or litigation position of the public body and the chair. 2131 02:36:07,260 --> 02:36:10,880 So declares ABCC, re: Fourth and Long Inc., 2132 02:36:11,020 --> 02:36:14,690 DBA Rescue Inn's Tavern, and not to return to open session. 2133 02:36:14,960 --> 02:36:15,250 Moved. 2134 02:36:15,500 --> 02:36:15,730 Second. 2135 02:36:15,860 --> 02:36:18,070 Motions are made and seconded. Any further discussion? 2136 02:36:18,660 --> 02:36:21,200 Hearing none, we're going to call for a roll call vote. Mr. Sanders? 2137 02:36:21,220 --> 02:36:22,420 Andrew Sanders, in favor. 2138 02:36:22,510 --> 02:36:22,840 Ms. Pichler? 2139 02:36:22,980 --> 02:36:23,920 Pam Pichler, in favor. 2140 02:36:23,960 --> 02:36:24,440 Ms. Mello? 2141 02:36:25,160 --> 02:36:25,930 Natalie Mello, aye. 2142 02:36:25,940 --> 02:36:26,549 Mr. Chiappetta? 2143 02:36:26,860 --> 02:36:27,640 Carlo aye. 2144 02:36:27,720 --> 02:36:30,370 Germano, aye. It is 8:33. We are adjourned.