Acushnet Board of Selectmen Maintains 135% Tax Classification Amid High School Funding Uncertainty

Overview: In a decision aimed at minimizing financial strain on residents, the Acushnet Board of Selectmen voted to maintain the current 135% tax classification split. This choice was influenced by the ongoing discussions surrounding funding for a new high school, with board members expressing concern over the potential impact on residential taxpayers.

Acushnet Faces Critical Decision on $288 Million High School Project Amid Financial Concerns

Overview: The Acushnet Board of Selectmen, in conjunction with the finance committee, convened to address an upcoming vote on November 18th regarding the future of the Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School. The session focused on financial implications, educational needs, and community impact, as the town deliberated over a proposed $288.7 million project to construct a new high school to replace the aging facility opened in 1975. The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has committed to reimbursing approximately $129 million, covering around 60.5% of eligible costs, should the project proceed. However, failure to secure approval could result in Acushnet shouldering the entire burden of maintaining the current, inadequate building, estimated at over $134 million without state assistance.

Acushnet Secures $1 Million from MassDOT for Key Infrastructure Project

Overview: In a development during the recent Acushnet Board of Selectmen meeting, the town announced it will receive $1 million from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) for an important infrastructural project. This funding comes after persistent advocacy efforts by state representatives, who highlighted the project’s critical nature for the community. The board expressed its gratitude for the successful securing of the funds, which had been a key area of focus for the town’s representatives.

Acushnet Faces Inspector General Complaint Over Civil War Monument Procurement

Overview: The Acushnet Board of Selectmen’s meeting on October 31, 2025, was marked by the announcement that a town resident had filed a complaint with the Office of Inspector General regarding the procurement process for a Civil War monument. The complaint alleges that the town violated procurement policy, prompting the board to forward the issue to town counsel and prepare necessary documentation for the Inspector General’s office. Members acknowledged the situation, noting that while they had reviewed the documentation, the complaint was still pursued by the resident.

Acushnet Board of Selectmen Discusses $288.7 Million Proposal for New Old Colony School

Overview: In a joint meeting with the Finance Committee, the Acushnet Board of Selectmen scrutinized the proposition to fund a new Old Colony school building, with a proposed budget of approximately $288.7 million. The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has pledged to cover about $129 million, or 55% of eligible costs, leaving the remaining amount to be raised locally, a task that could impact local tax rolls significantly. The decision, set for a vote on November 18th, carries implications for the educational future of students across Acushnet, Carver, Lakeville, Mattapoisett, and Rochester.