Fall River Commission Awards Scholarships Funded by Fines for Handicap Parking Violations

Overview: At the recent Fall River Commission on Disability meeting, scholarships were awarded to local high school students funded by fines collected from handicap parking violations. Mayor Paul Coogan, along with other city officials, presented the scholarships during the event. Each student received a $1,625 scholarship, with $1,500 coming from the Commission on Disability’s fund and an additional $125 contributed by Bost Bank.

Fall River Board of Health Discusses Opioid Settlement and Fluoride Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Fall River Board of Health focused on the allocation of opioid settlement funds and addressed the ongoing issue of non-fluoridated water in the community. An upcoming public meeting was announced to gather community input on the settlement fund allocation, aligning with an ongoing survey which has already garnered over 400 responses. Additionally, the board noted an increase in fluoride tablet prescriptions due to the water supply’s lack of fluoridation, prompting a discussion on the need for formal updates from the water department.

Fall River Sewer Commission Confronts EPA on Draft Permit

Overview: In the latest meeting of the Fall River Sewer Commission, the most prominent topic of discussion was the commission’s strong opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) draft permit, which proposes nitrogen limits that could necessitate a $250 million facility upgrade. The commission also approved an $88 million contract for wastewater treatment facility management and discussed significant infrastructure projects aimed at flood mitigation in the Stafford Square area.

Fall River Historical Commission Uncovers Historical Gems in Steep Brook Area

Overview: The Fall River Historical Commission meeting on April 30th, 2024, illuminated the history and potential for preservation in the Steep Brook area. A presentation by Roger Williams University students and faculty revealed multiple properties with eligibility for the National Register and the possibility of establishing a new historic district. This comprehensive survey of Steep Brook not only highlighted historic buildings but also outlined the area’s transformation from a native tribal land to a bustling commercial center, emphasizing its connection with significant events like the Underground Railroad.

Fall River Council Addresses Traffic Safety and Crime Concerns

Overview: In a meeting that covered a wide range of topics, the Fall River City Council tackled issues surrounding traffic safety around Diamond Regional Vocational Technical High School, fire station compliance and upgrades, residential safety measures, and a discussion on the city’s approach to tackling crime and firearm violence.