Acushnet Faces Critical Decision on $288 Million High School Project Amid Financial Concerns

Overview: The Acushnet Board of Selectmen, in conjunction with the finance committee, convened to address an upcoming vote on November 18th regarding the future of the Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School. The session focused on financial implications, educational needs, and community impact, as the town deliberated over a proposed $288.7 million project to construct a new high school to replace the aging facility opened in 1975. The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has committed to reimbursing approximately $129 million, covering around 60.5% of eligible costs, should the project proceed. However, failure to secure approval could result in Acushnet shouldering the entire burden of maintaining the current, inadequate building, estimated at over $134 million without state assistance.

Acushnet Planning Board Deliberates Renaming Business Village District Amid Zoning Debates

Overview: The Acushnet Planning Board meeting on November 6, 2025, engaged in discussions about zoning regulations, focusing particularly on renaming the business village district and addressing the implications of mixed-use developments.

Acushnet Secures $1 Million from MassDOT for Key Infrastructure Project

Overview: In a development during the recent Acushnet Board of Selectmen meeting, the town announced it will receive $1 million from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) for an important infrastructural project. This funding comes after persistent advocacy efforts by state representatives, who highlighted the project’s critical nature for the community. The board expressed its gratitude for the successful securing of the funds, which had been a key area of focus for the town’s representatives.

Acushnet Faces Inspector General Complaint Over Civil War Monument Procurement

Overview: The Acushnet Board of Selectmen’s meeting on October 31, 2025, was marked by the announcement that a town resident had filed a complaint with the Office of Inspector General regarding the procurement process for a Civil War monument. The complaint alleges that the town violated procurement policy, prompting the board to forward the issue to town counsel and prepare necessary documentation for the Inspector General’s office. Members acknowledged the situation, noting that while they had reviewed the documentation, the complaint was still pursued by the resident.

Acushnet Housing Authority Faces Architectural Oversight and Prepares for Staff Retirement

Overview: The Acushnet Housing Authority meeting highlighted two developments: a costly architectural oversight in an electrical project and the upcoming retirement of a key maintenance supervisor. The authority approved a change order of $46,054.19 to address the oversight, and plans are underway to find a replacement for the retiring supervisor, Michael Chopper.