Fall River City Council Faces Staffing Challenges and Budget Scrutiny Amidst Public Safety Concerns

Overview: In a discussion during the recent Fall River City Council meeting, attention was given to the staffing and operational challenges faced by the city’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and police department, alongside financial scrutiny related to salary appropriations and public safety measures.

Fall River City Council Considers Salary Cap Adjustment for Veterans Service Officer

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Fall River City Council addressed topics including a proposed salary cap adjustment for the Veterans Service Officer (VSO) position, revisions to traffic and parking ordinances, and the establishment of a revolving fund for library programming. The council deliberated on transitioning the VSO position from a contract role to an ordinance-defined role with a “not to exceed” salary, while also discussing the need for competitive compensation. Additionally, the council reviewed changes to traffic regulations and a new library fund aimed at improving community services.

Fall River Board of Health Approves Chicken Permits Amid Resident Concerns

Overview: During the recent Fall River Board of Health meeting, considerable debate arose over requests for permits to keep chickens at two different properties, resulting in the board approving both applications despite vocal opposition from residents.

Fall River Residents Rally Against Proposed Medical Office Building in Residential Area

Overview: The Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on August 21, 2025, was marked by community opposition to a proposed medical office building on Highland Avenue. The application, presented by Attorney Peter Celino on behalf of ACN Tra LLC, sought a variance to construct a chiropractic and wellness center within a single-family zoning district. The plan revived a previously approved but unexecuted 2015 proposal and sparked a debate among residents and board members.

Fall River Tackles Inactive Voter Challenge as Municipal Elections Approach

Overview: The recent Fall River Board of Election Commissioners meeting focused on the challenge of inactive voters, with 26,000 out of 59,642 registered voters in the city currently listed as inactive due to non-response to the annual municipal census. This issue not only plagues Fall River but also neighboring communities like New Bedford. To address this, the city has initiated confirmation mailings, yet only about 5,000 responses have been received. The inactive voters are required to present valid identification and complete an affirmation of residency to vote in the upcoming elections.