Fall River Council Debates Homelessness and Historic Preservation

Overview: One notable issues at the recent Fall River City Council meeting included the city’s approach to addressing homelessness, the protection of historic properties, and concerns surrounding the appointment of a new member to the Sewer Commission. The council also discussed the potential sale of city-owned land and the confirmation of appointments to various commissions.

Fall River Board of Health Addresses Tobacco Violation, Chicken Keeping Variance

Overview: In a recent Fall River Board of Health virtual meeting, the board discussed a range of issues including a tobacco violation at Atlas Smoke Shop and requests for the keeping of chickens on residential properties. The tobacco violation, which was a second offense for Atlas Smoke Shop, involved the presence of flavored tobacco products which have been banned for several years. Although the shop had paid the required $2,000 fine, the board deliberated over imposing a seven-day suspension.

Fall River Licensing Board: Cornerstone Lounge Prevails in Parking Requirement Debate

Overview: The Fall River Licensing Board, in a recent meeting, voted unanimously to approve the liquor license for the new business, Cornerstone Lounge, and to waive its parking requirements. This decision followed a discussion that considered the history of the parking requirement, the business owner’s investment and efforts to comply with regulations, and the impact of parking availability on the establishment’s future success.

Fall River Authority Plans Shoreline and Urban Renewal Projects

Overview: The Fall River Redevelopment Authority’s recent meeting unveiled plans for significant shoreline repairs and an urban renewal project. The discussions centered on repairing the rock face of the Shoreline with an agreement approved for Beta at the cost of $267,900, funded partly by a larger grant. Additionally, the authority is moving forward with a $150,000 OneStop Grant application for the master plan on Pleasant Street, with a commitment of $15,000 from the city if the grant is received. These projects are part of a broader initiative to revitalize key areas in Fall River, focusing on long-term sustainability and community engagement.

Fall River Historical Commission Plans for Iconic Building’s Future

Overview: The most recent meeting of the Fall River Historical Commission centered on several issues facing the city’s historic preservation efforts, with the future of a prominent local building and the expansion of the Highlands local historic district taking center stage. The commission deliberated on the involvement of various city stakeholders in a special meeting dedicated to the preservation and public accessibility of a building.