Halifax Selectmen Tackle Town’s Water Supply Challenges
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
03/26/2024
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Recording Published:
04/01/2024
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Duration:
60 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Plymouth County
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Towns:
Halifax
- Meeting Overview:
At a recent meeting, the Halifax Board of Selectmen addressed several issues, with the town’s water supply challenges taking precedence. The board discussed the necessity of purchasing water from Brockton to meet peak demand that exceeds the capacity of some of Halifax’s operational wells. This matter was part of a broader conversation that included various topics such as the town’s budget adjustments, contractual discussions, and the enhancement of local committees and projects.
The water supply discussion underscored a infrastructure concern, as the town’s reliance on Brockton for additional water supply points to limitations in Halifax’s current water system. The Selectmen expressed interest in a joint meeting with the Water Commission to further explore water quality, well status, repairs, and ongoing contract negotiations. The concerns voiced about water sources and potential supply issues underlined the need for strategic planning and investment in the town’s water infrastructure.
A highlight of the meeting was the consideration of installing fast electric vehicle (EV) chargers at a local playground, reflecting Halifax’s engagement with green initiatives. However, financial considerations, such as the regulations regarding charging for electricity, were debated.
Another environmentally focused initiative was the approval of the beautification committee’s request to use the town green for a town-wide cleanup. This unanimous decision supports Halifax’s efforts to maintain and improve the aesthetic and environmental quality of the town’s public spaces.
The meeting also covered the functioning of local government and community engagement. There was an announcement of a forthcoming community page on the town’s website, designed to facilitate communication between residents and the Selectmen. This platform is set to ensure that residents have their questions answered within a 48-hour timeframe.
Deliberations included the issue of the library’s plumbing system, with the Selectmen discussing the ongoing problems and potential solutions. The installation of a porta potty served as a temporary measure while the board considered the feasibility of adding more permanent restrooms in public areas to alleviate similar issues in the future.
In terms of local governance and representation, the Selectmen heard from Eric Mosino, a candidate for State Representative, who shared his perspective on uniting Halifax as one precinct and his stance against MBTA zoning. While the details of the members’ responses to Mosino’s presentation were not specified, it was noted that there was agreement with his views on the need for improved representation at the state and federal levels.
The town’s capital plans and appropriations were also a point of focus, with discussions on the budget and funding for various projects. The Selectmen previewed the draft warrant for the town meeting, which laid out articles and plans that would affect Halifax’s future operations and initiatives, including the Greater Attleboro Transit Authority (GATRA) contract. Although a request was made to table the approval of the GATRA contract until further review, it was eventually approved unanimously.
Furthering the town’s cultural and historic preservation efforts, the Selectmen interviewed and unanimously appointed a new member to the Air Wife Restoration Project committee. The candidate’s background and enthusiasm for the project were noted as key factors in his appointment.
The meeting also touched on the administrative side of town operations, with a suggestion to have someone else handle responses to community inquiries during vacations.
In closing, the Selectmen provided updates on the MBTA action plan, zoning bylaw review committee, Morris Brothers’ operation, and training for boards and committees.
Cody Haddad
City Council Officials:
Naja Nessralla, John Bruno, Jonathan H. Selig
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
03/26/2024
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Recording Published:
04/01/2024
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Duration:
60 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Plymouth County
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Towns:
Halifax
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