Freetown Board Votes on Town Hall Space Crunch Solutions

Overview: The Freetown Board of Selectmen addressed the critical space shortages at Town Hall by discussing and voting on several measures to alleviate the situation. The board considered moving some town departments to the fire station number two and other locations to create more room. The space constraints, particularly acute in the Planning Department located on the third floor, pose evacuation challenges in the event of a fire. To combat these issues, the fire department offered space at their station to be converted into offices. The board also discussed potential improvements such as adding windows, an ADA-compliant bathroom, and a secure public access system to ensure the safety of town employees and the public.

Freetown Selectmen Approve Police Station Construction Bid

Overview: In a move, the Freetown Board of Selectmen convened on July 1, 2024, to discuss and approve several significant agenda items that will impact the town’s infrastructure and services. Among the topics, the most notable was the awarding of the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the construction of police station number three, a step that marks a development in the town’s long-term public safety planning.

Freetown Approves Key Infrastructure and Community Project Contracts

Overview: In a move to enhance community facilities and services, the Freetown Board of Selectmen approved several significant contracts during their June 17th, 2024, meeting. Among these were agreements for essential stone foundation repairs on a historic schoolhouse, curbside trash and recycling services, preventive maintenance for the police station’s HVAC system, and an online permitting system for conservation. The board also addressed preparations for the town’s Fourth of July celebrations, approved a series of reappointments, and ratified financial adjustments and employment offers.

Freetown Commission Approves Septic Upgrades and Tree Removal

Overview: The Freetown Conservation Commission meeting recently concluded with a series of approvals for property modifications, addressing community concerns about septic systems, dead tree removal, and water flow management. Topics included the approval of septic system repairs and replacements at three locations—35 Central Avenue, 18 Leonard Street, and Roundville Drive—with conditions for erosion and siltation control, and the removal of five dead trees on Cliff Drive after deliberation about the accuracy of their assessment. Additionally, the public hearing for water flow concerns on Walnut Street was continued pending further investigation and proposal of a solution.

Freetown Grapples with Housing: Zoning and Infrastructure at Forefront

Overview: The Freetown Board of Selectmen’s recent meeting brought to the fore issues surrounding zoning bylaws, the potential development of 750 housing units, infrastructure capacity, and compliance with the state’s Supreme Judicial Court order. The discussions centered on the town’s obligations to amend zoning bylaws to permit multifamily housing as a right in at least one district, a mandate which the town had not yet met, and the implications of non-compliance, including the possibility of fines and the withholding of grant money.