In a recent session, board addressed a request from the Dighton Lions Club for a waiver of fees associated with the use of town facilities for their events. Deb, a representative of the Lions Club, highlighted the organization’s extensive contributions to the community, emphasizing their financial impact, which includes more than $300,000 donated to local causes. These contributions fund school programs, police and fire department needs, and the operation of a food bank. She argued that 80% of the funds raised by the club at events remain in Dighton.

Ed, another club member with a long history in the organization, supported Deb’s statements by detailing various community projects completed by the club, such as the construction of a basketball court and a playground, all provided at no cost to the town. He also highlighted the club’s role in funding essential equipment for the fire department and local educational facilities. Ed proposed that if the board insisted on the $75 fee, they should bill him personally rather than the club.

The board acknowledged the Lions Club’s contributions and expressed a willingness to exempt them from fees, with one selectman admitting a lack of awareness of the club’s extensive work. The board’s decision to support the Lions Club’s request reflects their recognition of the club’s dedication and impact on the Dighton community.

The meeting also addressed broader concerns about the implications of proposed rental fees for town facilities, particularly for nonprofits. Representatives from various community organizations, including the Dighton Historical Society and a veterans group, expressed concerns about the financial burden such fees could impose. Irene Alli from the Historical Society described the financial strain due to increased costs for maintaining their historical building. Tony Rosario, representing a veterans organization, noted the challenges in organizing community events due to potential fees, which could detract from their scholarship funding.

A selectman acknowledged the compelling arguments made by these nonprofits. The board expressed a desire to balance maintenance costs with the financial realities faced by local organizations, concluding with a consensus to revisit the fee structure in future meetings.

In another important agenda item, the board considered a junk dealer’s license application for Joseph Frisado on Cobb Lane. Despite the chair noting a lack of known complaints against Frisado’s business, a split sentiment emerged among board members due to a neighbor’s complaint about operating hours. This led to a procedural nuance where a lack of motion would result in an automatic denial of the license.

The meeting also included the appointment of Wilton F. Gray III as a special police officer. Gray, recently retired after a 31-year career with the Environmental State Police, came highly recommended. The board unanimously approved his appointment.

Additionally, the board authorized the Open Space Committee to establish a Facebook page to facilitate communication about open space initiatives. The board approved this unanimously, recognizing the importance of digital outreach.

The meeting further involved discussions about barn permits, initially discontinued due to low demand and administrative burdens. Tammy Bell from the Board of Health opposed reinstating them, citing a lack of enforceability and practical relevance compared to stable permits. The board agreed to vote on reimbursing those who recently paid for barn permits.

Finally, the board accepted a donation from Mechanics Bank for the fire and police departments to address communication issues due to water tower connection problems. This donation, valued at approximately $15,000, was met with gratitude from the board, who proposed sending a thank-you letter to the bank.