A major focus of the meeting was the introduction and discussion of the host community agreement, a product of over two years of negotiations between the town and PJ Keating, designed to address compliance issues and prevent further litigation. Legal representatives from both sides described the agreement as a comprehensive “playbook” to ensure adherence to regulations and foster cooperative relations. The agreement stipulates operational requirements, including regulated hours of operation, and mandates an annual report from PJ Keating detailing their quarry operations, monitoring results, and any unresolved resident complaints. To balance operational needs with community concerns, blasting operations will be restricted to specific days and times, with no activity permitted on weekends or holidays.

The agreement aims to create a more stable relationship between the town and PJ Keating, benefiting both parties in the long term. The document will be made publicly available for community scrutiny and feedback.

Blasting operations were another topic of discussion. The agreement specifies that blasting may occur only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with an effort to conclude by 1:30 p.m. Exceptions can be made for public safety issues, subject to approval by the fire chief. The company is responsible for notifying town officials by noon the day before any blasting activity. Moreover, PJ Keating must notify relevant town boards at least 45 days before applying for permits that could lead to operational expansion.

Trucking operations were also addressed, with requirements for truck bed coverage to minimize dust and debris. Residents are encouraged to report any uncovered trucks, though it was noted that not all uncovered trucks on town roads originate from PJ Keating’s facility.

The relocation of PJ Keating’s rock crushing operations and Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) plant was another significant agenda item. A feasibility study, due by September 30, 2025, will determine the viability of relocating these operations to reduce their impact on nearby residents. The planned relocation aims to move the plant 1,500 feet east, away from residential areas, potentially improving conditions for local residents. The application process for necessary permits would commence within 30 days of a successful feasibility study, with relocation scheduled during the seasonal shutdown from November 26 to April 2027. If relocations are not completed by April 1, 2027, all nighttime and weekend operations will cease, although delays caused by regulatory agencies could extend these deadlines.

The meeting also covered the resolution of several longstanding lawsuits between the town and PJ Keating. The agreements reached are intended to settle two significant lawsuits through a judgment incorporating alternative dispute resolution measures outlined in the host community agreement. This resolution offers the potential for financial compensation for the town to assist with infrastructure repairs.

The board members expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that led to the agreement and emphasized the progress made in fostering a more cooperative relationship with PJ Keating. The agreement’s terms, including a commitment to allocate funds specifically for infrastructure needs in Acushnet, were highlighted as crucial for maintaining accountability and ensuring community interests are protected. The agreement, set to last for 30 years, will be available for public review, allowing residents to understand its contents, including operational hours and conditions.