The board discussed plans to designate Dighton as a Purple Heart community on November 12, emphasizing the importance of honoring local veterans. The event will include guest speakers and a ceremony to recognize families of Purple Heart recipients. The board members deliberated on the logistics of the event and the installation of signage to mark Dighton’s new status. A proclamation to formalize the designation is set to be voted on the same day. The board also considered whether a formal vote was needed to place a Purple Heart flag in the town hall, deciding they would display the flag respectfully. The ceremony aims to underscore the historical significance of Purple Heart recipients within the community.

Another issue at the meeting was the proposal to increase fees at the transfer station and health department. The board discussed the necessity of reviewing these fees annually to ensure they cover operational costs. Rising transportation costs necessitated proposed increases for items like mattress disposal, with fees suggested to rise from $40 to $50. The board acknowledged the need for immediate implementation to improve cash flow, noting the town’s financial struggles. Concerns were raised regarding adequate notice to residents about the fee changes, with differing opinions on whether immediate adjustments or extended public awareness should take precedence.

The meeting also addressed infrastructure improvements, particularly the reconfiguration of Main Street and Pleasant Street. A consensus emerged about removing a portion of the road near Main Street for upcoming work. Plans for the road work included two proposed scenarios, one involving a curve affecting a nearby fire hydrant. The construction timeline aimed to begin as soon as possible, with completion targeted within three weeks. The board addressed concerns about paving over a septic tank, clarifying that previous upgrades minimized future excavation risks. Members also discussed the maintenance workload for new walkways and grassy areas, highlighting the potential need for additional resources during winter months. A motion to accept the reconfiguration plan was seconded and unanimously passed.

In other business, the board considered relocating the Medal of Honor display from the police station to the town hall to increase public accessibility. The board agreed on the move, recognizing the importance of making the medal more visible to residents. Furthermore, the board welcomed Robert Gear as an associate member of the Economic Development Committee, appreciating his enthusiasm and vision for enhancing the town’s business landscape.

A public hearing addressed the proposed fee increases, with one participant emphasizing the town’s responsibility to correct financial deficits sooner rather than later. The board of health’s fee schedule was also discussed, with comparisons to neighboring towns revealing slightly lower fees. Some participants expressed confusion over the rationale for certain fee increases, leading to the decision to table the discussion for further review.

The meeting included updates from a local scout, Paul Patricio, who presented his completed Eagle project, expressing gratitude for the town’s support. Infrastructure concerns were also addressed, with plans to relocate public ways at the Pleasant Street intersection to enhance safety and functionality. The board acknowledged the importance of preserving historical monuments while ensuring the project’s progress.