At the forefront of the meeting was the Acushnet Fire Department’s endeavor to bolster the town’s emergency management capabilities. The Fire Chief presented a draft Request for Proposals (RFP) tied to a substantial hazard mitigation plan grant awarded by FEMA through the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). This $177,100 grant is designed to enhance the community’s resilience against potential disasters, a step given that Acushnet is among the few communities in Massachusetts lacking such a plan. The Chief highlighted collaboration with the town planner, who possesses relevant experience to guide the RFP process.

In conjunction with these plans, the Fire Department is also grappling with immediate vehicle maintenance challenges. The replacement of the engine for Rescue 2, totaling approximately $19,700, alongside towing expenses of $750, has stressed the department’s budget. The Chief requested a $60,000 reserve fund transfer to address these costs and provide a financial buffer for ongoing maintenance until the fiscal year ends on June 30. The board approved this transfer.

The meeting also shed light on staffing changes within the town’s administrative framework. The board accepted the resignation of Assistant Treasurer-Collector Colin Morel, effective January 3, 2025, and of Manuel Gula from the Golf Management Committee, effective December 19, 2024. Both departures were acknowledged with regret, with board members expressing gratitude for their contributions and noting that their presence would be missed.

Attention then shifted to the Master Plan Committee, which has garnered significant interest from the community. The board deliberated on appointments to the committee but decided to defer decisions on at-large positions to thoroughly review submitted letters of interest. A notable discussion centered around Ryan Resendes, a candidate for the committee who had recently resigned from the Conservation Commission. The board debated the appropriateness of appointing Resendes amidst his resignation status, emphasizing the importance of selecting candidates who fully represent their respective commissions.

This debate highlighted a broader issue of ensuring the legitimacy of committee proceedings. Concerns were raised about conducting a scheduled meeting for the Master Plan Committee without an officially formed and sworn-in membership. The board agreed to cancel the meeting to uphold procedural integrity.

A broader discussion on the board’s agenda included the seasonal snow parking ban, crucial for ensuring emergency access during winter conditions. The board reiterated the importance of keeping fire hydrants unobstructed. Additionally, the board approved the hiring of a seasonal snow plow driver at a rate of $30 per hour, with overtime at $45 per hour.

The board concluded with administrative updates, including the approval of an updated timekeeping payroll policy to mitigate future grievances. They also called for community involvement, urging residents to apply for vacancies on various town committees, such as the Finance Committee and the Conservation Commission, to maintain active local governance.