Historic Preservation Projects in Fall River Face Challenges and Progress Amid Community Engagement

Overview: The Fall River Historical Commission meeting on April 15, 2025, focused on numerous historic preservation efforts across the city, featuring discussions on significant projects and community engagement initiatives. Members reviewed ongoing projects, approved letters of support for historic tax credits, and planned community surveys to inform local historic district expansions.

Fall River TIF Board Approves Housing Projects, Denies Cook Pond Tax Break

Overview: The Fall River Tax Increment Financing Board approved a tax increment financing (TIF) agreement for the redevelopment of the historic Globe Street Mill into 89 market-rate residential units. However, the board denied a TIF request for the Overlook at Cook Pond project, a new townhouse development on South Main Street.

Fall River Watuppa Water Board Addresses Budget Revisions Amid Funding Challenges

Overview: The Fall River Watuppa Water Board discussed budget revisions to address concerns raised by the city council. The board has decided to reduce the proposed water rate increase from 8% to 4% and approved a revised budget of $16,571,442. These changes were made following a review of the budget and the need to minimize the impact on ratepayers while acknowledging potential risks to infrastructure funding.

Fall River Sewer Commission Revises Budget, Reduces Rate Increase for Residents

Overview: The Fall River Sewer Commission meeting on April 10 focused on the approval of a revised budget for fiscal year 2026, which resulted in a reduced rate increase for residents. Initially set for a 5% rate increase, the commission cut the increase to 3.9%, amounting to an average annual increase of $16.96 per household for sewer services. The combined water and sewer rate increase is now projected to be 2.9% for the average household.

Fall River Planning Board Approves Key Subdivision Plans, Allowing New Housing Developments

Overview: The Fall River Planning Board convened to endorse several subdivision plans, paving the way for new housing developments on Duth Street, Mason Road, and Belmont Street. These approvals followed zoning relief grants by the Board of Appeals.