Acushnet Housing Authority Targets Upgrade with $75,000 Grant and Seeks Additional Funds

Overview: In a recent Acushnet Housing Authority meeting, board members voted to apply for a state grant that could potentially double the $75,000 in funding already secured from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This additional funding, if matched by the High Leverage Asset Preservation Program (High LAAP), would be used for property upgrades, including the installation of vinyl siding and new screening porches. The meeting also addressed the issue of missing utility bills and discussed ongoing maintenance efforts.

Dighton Stormwater Commission Approves Waivers

Overview: The Dighton Stormwater Commission recently convened to discuss several matters, the most significant being the approval of various waivers related to stormwater management for ongoing projects, including the debated Elm Street project and solar farms. The waivers granted involve the construction of stormwater basins with greater depths than typically allowed and the introduction of slopes that deviate from standard requirements. Additionally, the Commission addressed modifications to stormwater basins to resolve ponding issues and reviewed a proposal for TSS removal and flow rate concerns. Notably, the meeting evolved into a broader discussion on the future role and focus of the Stormwater Commission itself, with some members advocating for a return to its core responsibilities.

Freetown Board Grapples with Scrapyard Compliance and Town Funding

Overview: The Freetown Board of Selectmen’s recent meeting brought to the fore several issues, most notably the ongoing compliance challenges with a local scrapyard operation and the management of town resources, including funding requests for senior services, fire department equipment, and a dispute over the seasonal hours for the transfer station.

Norton Plans New Zoning District, Eyes Multifamily Housing and Smart Road District

Overview: The Norton Planning Board has discussed the establishment of a new zoning district aimed at creating multifamily housing and a Smart Road District. The meeting, held remotely via Zoom, saw the presentation of potential sites and mechanisms for compliance with state housing mandates, as well as the discussion of various considerations for the new zoning, including its structure, housing types permitted, and inclusionary components.

Dighton Approves Stormwater Management Variance Amid Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Dighton Board of Selectmen, notable decisions and discussions took place regarding the town’s solid waste management and stormwater management variance for a property on Elm Street. The board approved a variance request for an open stormwater basin associated with a commercial storage building project, despite concerns over current regulations and the need for a surrounding fence. In addition, there were deliberations on holding a joint meeting with the Board of Health and the Solid Waste committee to discuss recommendations for the solid waste program before finalizing the trash bag vendor agreement. Furthermore, the board addressed a public health concern regarding a farm property on Pleasant Street, with plans to invite both the complainant and the property owner to the next meeting to discuss the issue of potential contamination to the Taunton River from animal waste.