Norton Planning Board Examines Housing Density and District Boundaries

Overview: The Norton Planning Board recently convened to address critical town planning issues, including the establishment of district boundaries and the implementation of affordable housing density bonuses. The meeting centered on two proposed boundary scenarios and the implications of various building regulations, parking requirements, and the potential for a green space mandate. The board’s discussions revealed a focus on meeting state compliance by December 31, 2024, to avoid the loss of funding, and a commitment to engaging the community in the decision-making process.

Fall River Licensing Board Approves Belmont Club’s Event With Safety Measures

Overview: In a meeting of the Fall River Licensing Board, the Belmont Club received a green light for a one-day entertainment permit, with a condition that set the safety tone for the session. The permit’s approval, crucial for the club’s event planned for August 18th, 2024, came with the stipulation of hiring a firefighter to monitor the building’s capacity.

Westport Planning Board Deliberates Marot Drive Subdivision Proposal

Overview: The Westport Planning Board meeting, held on July 16th, was primarily centered around the public hearing for the contentious Marot Drive subdivision proposal. The proposal, which had been previously continued, faced scrutiny over the location of the road and the need for waivers from town zoning bylaws. Despite the applicant’s offer to grant the town a full easement for public access through the proposed private road, the Planning Board clarified that accepting easements falls within the jurisdiction of the select board. Public input featured prominently, with attendees raising concerns about the project.

Fall River Park Board Deliberates Park Improvements and Events

Overview: The Fall River Park Board convened on July 16th, 2024, to discuss a variety of topics concerning the city’s parks, including requests for park use, improvements to facilities, and addressing damage to park property. The board’s deliberation on the organization and impact of a new pickleball league at Kennedy Park stood out as a noteworthy topic, requiring further information before a decision could be made. In addition, improvements to Griffin Park, the approval of Bristol Community College’s request to use Britland Park for soccer games, and concerns about the Vietnam Wall at Bicentennial Park were also points of discussion.

Westport Personnel Board Approves Part-Time Animal Control Pay Rate

Overview: In a recent session, Westport Personnel Board has unanimously approved a $25 per hour pay rate for the part-time Animal Control Officer (ACO) position. The meeting also addressed the need for utilizing a recent compensation study to correct salary discrepancies across various town departments, including the underpaid position of the Town Administrator.