The allocation of funds for the Christ of Rock Church tower repair was a major focus of the meeting. The church had requested $250,000 for necessary repairs to prevent water intrusion and potential structural issues. However, after a thorough discussion that included the examination of a letter from the church which detailed the proposed approach for stabilizing the tower, the committee decided to earmark only $100,000 to begin the grouting work. This decision was based on the committee’s debate over financial constraints and the impact of partial funding on the project’s progression.

The Children’s Museum also featured prominently in the discussions. The committee considered a funding request for $385,000 from the museum but decided to allocate $250,000 instead. The debate included considerations on the deed restriction duration for the museum project, with a consensus reached on a 30-year restriction. These decisions, like those for the Christ of Rock Church, were made through motions, seconds, and roll call votes.

The committee also approved $230,000 for window replacements and woodwork restoration for the Fall River School Department, and a separate $50,000 for the restoration of the front entrance railing and door frame. Both amounts were adjustments from the initial requests, highlighting the committee’s careful consideration of budget limitations and the prioritization of projects.

Another point of contention was the funding for the Union Belt building’s renovation, which involved the installation of 70 windows. The request was for $53,000, but after deliberation, the committee voted to allocate $156,650. The discussion revealed concerns about depleting reserves and the need for fiscal prudence, which influenced the final decision.

Further allocations were considered for additional projects, including the Corky Row building, the George R. H. Hollis House, and a new pickleball court at Bristol Community College. However, due to uncertainties about the remaining funds and the desire not to exhaust resources, the committee opted to postpone decisions on these projects until a clearer financial picture emerged.

During the meeting, the committee also addressed the potential for emergency funding applications. A request for $55,000 sparked debate due to the limited surplus and necessity for deed restrictions. Ultimately, a motion to fund $50,000 was approved, with the stipulation that applicants could not expend funds until they had received the check and fulfilled all requirements.

The committee concluded its session by suspending further grants for the current period, advising unsuccessful applicants to refine their proposals for the next year. Updates on the progress of ongoing projects, such as those by the Rowing Club and the Greater Fall River Art Association, were also provided. The committee underscored the importance of preserving restrictions and expressed challenges in obtaining financial figures from city and state sources.