Acushnet Planning Board Eyes Zoning Changes to Boost Business Growth

Overview: The Acushnet Planning Board’s recent meeting focused on proposed zoning changes aimed at stimulating economic development by diversifying the town’s tax base and reducing the residential tax burden. The board discussed strategies to attract retail, commercial, and industrial development and considered changes to the permitting process to encourage business growth.

Fall River Residents Rally Against Proposed Medical Office Building in Residential Area

Overview: The Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on August 21, 2025, was marked by community opposition to a proposed medical office building on Highland Avenue. The application, presented by Attorney Peter Celino on behalf of ACN Tra LLC, sought a variance to construct a chiropractic and wellness center within a single-family zoning district. The plan revived a previously approved but unexecuted 2015 proposal and sparked a debate among residents and board members.

Fall River Tackles Inactive Voter Challenge as Municipal Elections Approach

Overview: The recent Fall River Board of Election Commissioners meeting focused on the challenge of inactive voters, with 26,000 out of 59,642 registered voters in the city currently listed as inactive due to non-response to the annual municipal census. This issue not only plagues Fall River but also neighboring communities like New Bedford. To address this, the city has initiated confirmation mailings, yet only about 5,000 responses have been received. The inactive voters are required to present valid identification and complete an affirmation of residency to vote in the upcoming elections.

Dighton Stormwater Commission Shifts Oversight Roles Amidst Project Approvals

Overview: The Dighton Stormwater Commission meeting focused on the transition of oversight responsibilities from the commission to other town entities, alongside detailed presentations on development projects and updates on compliance with stormwater regulations. The commission’s role in future site visits will diminish, with town engineers taking on greater inspection duties.

Acushnet Housing Authority Secures Additional State Funding for Security and Accessibility Projects

Overview: The Acushnet Housing Authority announced during its recent meeting that it has successfully secured additional state funding to enhance security and accessibility features in its properties. The authority will receive $259,000 for the installation of advanced buzzer systems and security cameras, surpassing the initial grant of $139,000. Moreover, grant money has been utilized to convert tubs to walk-in showers in ground-floor apartments, improving accessibility for residents.