August 5, 2008
Middleborough News
Old News
The site to get the news and information about Middleborough, Massachusetts.
|
Older News Items
Older news items will be placed here for future reference.
4th of July a Success - (July 7, 2008) by: Editor
The North Middleborough 79th Annual 4th of July Parade was a success. The morning started off with sometimes heavy rains but it did not keep anyone away from the parade route. The weather was perfect for the kickoff at 10 AM and the parade went along for a good hour. Floats were submitted byt many groups from the Girl Scouts to a working popcorn machine on the "Corniest Float", from Middleborough Friends to Reedy's Archery, there were many smiles that one would expect. After the Parade, activities continued at the Carnival at the Piece Playground with something for everyone. Diving for coins and the Greasy pole. The Carnival always entertains. The Carnival wrapped up its run on Sunday and everyone had a good time.
Middleborough Friends appears on Coffee Shop Talk with Adam Bond - (July 3, 2008) by: Editor
The new community group Middleborough Friends appeared on the WXBR-AM 1460 radio show, Coffee Shop Talk with Adam Bond on Thursday. The group presided over by local resident Helen Belmont has organized in order to strengthen the community. The Middleborough Friends are working on several community events aimed at uniting the community socially at a reasonable cost. Their first evert will be scheduled for the end of September and will be a Pancake Breakfast with a twist. It will not be just Pancakes, there will be something unique which will make the event for the whole family. A Halloween Ball has been scheduled for Saturday, November 1, 2008 at the Haunted Historic Grand Ballroom of the Town Hall. The public is encouraged to participate. Middleborough Friends can be reached through their website at www.middleboroughfriends.com (Note: The Editor of the Middleborough News is the Secretary of the Middleborough Friends) Fireworks on July 2 - (July 1, 2008) by: Editor
As part of the Park Department annual Carnival, Fireworks will once again be launched from Battis Field on July 2. The fireworks should begin sometime after 9 pm and as always it is weather permitting. The carnival begins today and runs through July 6.
Selectmen Sign AMR Contract - (July 1, 2008) by: Editor
Some minor modifications and a week later, the Board of Selectmen have signed a contract with AMR for the next three years. There will be ambulances stationed at all three fire stations in town. When the fire chief was asked by Chairman Bond if he was satisfied with the contract, Chief Russell responded with, "Very". This contract will run through June 30, 2011. Matrix Consulting is currently working on a study of the feasibility for the Town of Middleborough to begin its own town run ambulance service as part of the fire department. The report from Matrix should be received at the beginning of August.
Alls Quiet on the Farm(ers Market) - (July 1, 2008) by: Editor
With many misconceptions and misunderstandings, there was a discussion of issues that recently occurred with the Farmers Market. The market which is run my the Middleborough Agricultural Commission with their two market masters has two markets, one at Cirelli's on Friday afternoons and the other Saturday morning on the Town Hall lawn. What seemed to be the issue is a disagreement between vendors on the location of where to set up at each market. The dispute was based one vendor's medical condition and their proximity to some of the flowers. It seems that the problem has been resolved and a peaceable manner and the farmers market will be in full swing with fresh vegetable on Saturday. Makes one long for the days of unleashed dogs and straying cows.
New Aerial Truck to be an FMC - (July 1, 2008) by: Editor
Chief presented the Board of Selectmen with an award notification that the new aerial platform for the town will be manufactured by FMC. The cost of the truck as bid was $914,000. The other bid received was for a used fire truck with 39 exceptions to the bid document. Two major manufacturers did no even choose to bid. Pierce and Emergency One decided not to submit a bid. In May, Town Meeting authorized up to $950,000 to be spent on a replacement aerial platform truck.
Hearing Monday to allow building within 25 feet of Wetlands - (June 29, 2008) by: Editor
Middleborough Selectmen will hold a hearing to decide whether to allow the resident at 27 Augustus Way to expand construction at the home which was is already in close proximity to the wetlands. The Water Resource Protection District (WRPD) was designed to keep people from infringing on the wetlands in water resource areas. The proposed project is for a 28' x 14' wrap around deck and that the silt fence from construction of the home is still along the top of bank of the adjacent pond. Recent selectmen action on another property refused to allow the home owner to place a well in the 25 foot no touch zone. On resident said, "First it is a well, then it will be a deck and the next thing you know, the corner foundation of a house will be allowed." The selectmen did not allow that resident to place the well in the no touch zone.
Selectmen to Finalize Contract with AMR - (June 29, 2008) by: Editor
The Middleborough Board of Selectmen are scheduled to finalize the contract with AMR to provide contract ambulance service for the next three years. After last weeks BOS meeting where changes were requested to be made to the EMS committees negotiated contract, the Board will take up the contract at the their June 30, 2008 meeting on Monday night. Not a day too soon since the current AMR contract expires at 11:59 PM that night.
Lakeville needs Water IMA with Middleborough for $375,000 Grant - (June 28, 2008) by: Editor
Recently the Governor went to Lakeville and presented a ceremonial $375,000 MORE grant for the purposes of road and water infrastructure improvements IF the former Lakeville hospital property is redeveloped and reused. An Inter Municipal Agreement (IMA) with Middleborough for water may stand in its way. Over the past seven years the Town of Lakeville has been reluctant to sign an agreement with the Town of Middleborough to receive water (and Middleborough continues to provide it without agreement). Do the selectmen in Lakeville and the owner of the property (National Development) realize that the Lakeville hospital project may not happen without water from the Town of Middleborough? This may be the catalyst that brings them back to the table to negotiate. The question that should be asked may just be, "If the Town of Middleborough provides water to the project, what benefit do the residents and tax payers of the Town of Middleborough get out of it". It seems the Lakeville BOS do not want to work with the Middleborough Board of Selectmen as shown when Regional Task Force, chaired selectwoman Nancy Yeatts, had the police to a meeting when the Middleborough sent a representative to participate. Back to the main question, What is in it for the Town of Middleborough? Maybe Stop and Shop will leave Middleborough resulting loss of taxes Maybe Route 105 may be more congested resulting in more accidents and more responses by Middleborough Police and Fire. Maybe the Route 495 off ramp will be even more of a nightmare than it already is (see above). There is more to this IMA than just water. There is potential for substantial impact to the Town of Middleborough without any compensation for those impacts.
Carnival Comes to Middleboro July 1st - (June 27, 2008) by: Editor
An annual event in Middleborough comes to Jackson Street. Sponsored by the Middleborough Park Department. CARNIVAL, FIREWORKS AND 4TH OF JULY EVENTS 2008:
Plan your week accordingly and see you on the big slide.
Middleborough Historic Commission Supports Banner Program - (June 25, 2008) by: Editor
The Middleborough Historic Commission voted unanimous support of the Downtown Business Association's "Historic Downtown" banner program at their meeting Tuesday Night. The DBA will be in front of the Board of Selectmen on July 14, 2008 for final approval.
Oak Point Expansion a No Go - (June 25, 2008) by: Editor
At the Planning Board meeting last evening, the Board voted to deny the permit for the proposed expansion of Oak Point across Plain Street and on Thompson Street. A last minute attempt to withdraw the application was not accepted. The denial will not allow the applicant to resubmit plans for two years without major modification. Oak Point residents have become a vibrant part of the Middleborough community. Its including to many organizations including its annual yard sale to help fund scholarships for the schools is a testament to those who live there. Tuesday nights denial was not about Oak Point but about the rural character of Middleborough and not giving special permission to construct residential homes in immediate proximity to a working dairy farm.
More Ghost Stories in the Middleborough Town Hall - (June 25, 2008) by: Editor
A recent wedding in May has given more evidence to ghosts in the Middleborough Town Hall. Photos from the wedding reception have revealed what Ed Beaulieu has identified as orbs. Mr. Beaulieu and his partner created quite a stir this pas winter with their findings and recordings of what they believed to be paranormal activities in the Town Hall Auditorium. These new photos may affirm their original findings. The Enfield Paranormal Society is scheduled to conduct its own investigations on the town hall at an undisclosed time in July. They will be reporting their findings to the Board of Selectmen.
Will Banners Yet Wave on Centre Street? - (June 24, 2008) by: Editor
The Middleborough Downtown Business association has approached the Board of Selectmen with a concept of hanging banners on the light posts of downtown Middleborough. Bob Saquette explained that the material used is a heavy duty canvas material that is durable and would be 18" wide by 36" long. They would hang from the light posts using non destructive brackets. The banner program would run from Everett Square to Main Street and is an attempt to unite the entire center of town. One citizen was excited at what was referred to as a step in the right direction to revitalize the down town. Ms. Jane Lopes asked if they could get an opinion from the Historic Commission (which she is a member of) prior to making a final decision. Mr. Saquette stated that he was going to be in front of the commission the following evening (June 24) and would present the banners at that time. Opinions on the banners were divided. Owners and renters of properties down town seem to be in favor of it.
AMR Contract Discussion Gets Heated - (June 24, 2008) by: Editor
The EMS Committee chaired by Chief Warner (retired) presented the Board of Selectmen with the ambulance service contract as negotiated with American Medical Response. The three year contract amounts to annual costs of $238,000, $239,000 and $249,000 per year over the three year contract. When it was announced that AMR was not going to housed in the North or South Fire Stations by request of the Fire Department, the selectmen took notice and were vehemently opposed to not having ambulances at those stations. Chief Warner said that under the direction of the Board of Selectmen, they met with the current Chief who as a department head, said that he would not like them in those stations since they are generally closed most of the time. The Selectmen have chosen to keep them in the stations. AMR will pay back the town $2,400 per month for garaging their ambulances in the fire stations. This is a roll over from previous contracts and a price that the EMS committee thought was more than fair based on current cost for commercial rental properties in Middleborough. Concerns over the June 30, 2008 expiration of the current contract was discussed and an extension was offered by AMR if necessary.
Selectmen Take a Tough Stand on Underage Smoking - (June 24, 2008) by: Editor
A report by the Middleborough Health Department explained results of a sting operation of minors purchasing tobacco products in Middleborough. Four sales locations were noted as to have sold to the minor. The Board of Selectmen have decided to hear from the retail sales locations on July 14th and to hand down punishment. Under the current bylaw, locations are to verify that anyone under the age of 27 is legal to purchase tobacco products. The four offending locations will have to at minimum devise a plan to quell underage tobacco purchases in the future.
Selectmen to Discuss AMR Ambulance Service at June 23 Meeting - (June 23, 2008) by: Editor
The Selectmen will kick off their June 23 meeting with discussion of the ambulance contract with American Medical Response (AMR). The EMS committee has been negotiating with AMR since the Board instructed them to do so last month. The current contract for service expires on June 30, 2008 and is currently provided by AMR. The Town has selected Matrix Consulting from Andover to conduct a study of feasibility to commence a town-run ambulance in Middleborough in conjunction with the proposed Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Resort Casino.
Middleborough Welcomes Cristello - (June 19, 2008) by: Editor
Middleborough welcomed Charles Cristello as their new Town Manager, with an informal reception at the historic Town Hall Wednesday night. Mr. Cristello was accompanied by his wife and was talked candidly with those who attended. From the selectmen to department heads to citizens at large, there was a steady flow of people throughout the early evening, with well wishes and concerns which they will ask for him to address. Mr. Cristello's starts his tenure as Middleborough's new Town Manager on July 17.
Citizen's Environmental Health Committee Reports on Rockland Industries - (June 17, 2008) by: Editor
A report of the Citizen's Environmental Health Committee was offered to the selectmen about the status of the Rockland Industries site on Plymouth Street, Middleborough. A history of the site was given as it was a chemical plant from 1966 until it was closed down and forced to clean up by court order in 1980. The site is 59 acres of which about 42 acres are wetlands and tributary to Purchade Brook which is a cold water trout hatchery. The levels of chemical detection as well as concerns for citizen's health are on the rise. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection is scheduled to come before the Board of Selectmen in July to discuss the site. The Middleborough Conservation Commission has ordered clean up of the wetlands under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 131, Section 40 which keep the heat on for the next two years.
Enfield Paranormal Society to Investigate the Town Hall - (June 17, 2008) by: Editor
The Enfield Paranormal Society will be looking for spirits in the Middlebrough Town Hall in July. This will be the second Ghost Hunting exercise this year. They EPS, will come in on a Friday night (to be determined) and will not make media event out of it. They will provide video to the town for their use. The EPS conducted a similar investigation on the Cohasset Town Hall which is of similar vintage to the one in Middleborough with great success.
Middleborough on the Move to Meet Wednesday at 5 PM - (June 16, 2008) by: Editor
Middleborough on the Move has scheduled an open meeting for residents at the Town Hall on Wednesday June 18 at 5:00 PM. The meeting will be just before the Town Manager Reception and the public is encouraged to attend. Middleborough on the Move is a 501(c)3 nonprofit group chartered for the betterment of downtown Middleborough and is currently beginning to restructure to include all of Middleborough.
Reports of Two People Shot in Middleborough - (June 15, 2008) by: Editor
Two people were shot in the vicinity of Cherry Street and Wareham Street on Friday night, sparking a manhunt for the alleged shooter. Status of the two persons shot is unknown at this time. Police have apprehended a resident of Cherry Street who will be arraigned on Monday in Wareham District Court. This latest act of violence comes on the heals the slaying of a local resident this past week for undisclosed reasons and a shooting back in May which was allegedly drug related.
Selectmen to Discuss Route 79 Relocation Monday - (June 14, 2008) by: Editor
The relocation of Route 79 from Middleborough into Lakeville will be discussed on Monday at the Board of Selectman meeting. The plans are a 75% design submittal. Planning for the relocation was done without comment by the Board until it was asked how they wanted the newly created dead end in Middleborough designed. Additional comments will be taken into consideration but major changes in design concepts are not generally accepted after the 25% mark unless there are major safety, construction or cost issues.
Selectmen Approve Change in Water Main Project and Save $30,000 - (June 14, 2008) by: Editor
The Board approved a change in the Wareham-Spruce Streets water main project at the railroad crossing. At a request by the new owners of the railroad crossing, the town will use convention construction methods to install the water main under the tracks. The conventional method will save the town about $30,000.
Selectmen Award Ambulance Study to Matrix - (June 10, 2008) by: Editor
Last evening the Board of Selectmen voted to award the Ambulance Study contract to Matrix Consulting. The Resort Advisory Committee had unanimously recommended Matrix for the study. Selectman Bruenell stated that the Matrix proposal included some preliminary work that shows they "want to work here" and it gives them a " leg up". Resort Committee Chairman Brian Giovanoni stated that the Matrix proposal was more expensive but requires much less work from Town Employees and "time is money". Money for the study is funded through the preplanning section of the Intergovernmental Agreement between the Town and the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.
North Middleborough 4th of July Parade on Schedule - (June 10, 2008) by: Editor
The 79th Annual forth of July parade in North Middleborough is on schedule for another patriotic event. The parade is scheduled to commence at 10 AM from the Pratt Free School and the Titicut Green, crossing Route 18, turning at Titicut Street and returning back up Plymouth Street to the Pratt Free School. They parade committee will be selling Parade Tags in order to offset the costs of the paid marching units.
Tispaquin Family Campground Denied Permit - (June 10, 2008) by: Editor
In the ongoing saga that is the Tispaquin Family Campground, the Board of Selectmen have denied the permit until such time as a ruling by the judge presiding over the case is handed down. The Tispaquin Family Campground has been operating off Purchase Street for over 25 years. The last few have been contentious between the Town and the owner.
Resort Advisory Committee Unanimously Recommends Matrix for Ambulance Study - (May 28, 2008) by: Editor
The Resort Advisory Committee met last night and discussed three proposals received by experienced independent consultants. The three consultants were selected based on the local consulting experience with EMS. The Committee voted unanimously to recommend award to Matrix Consultants Inc in the amount of $24,900. They based their recommendation on their understanding of the project, personnel education and experience, references and time for completion. It was also noted that Matrix does not require substantial work and information from town employees. The Committee will also be meeting again on June 18, 2008 at 7:30 PM at the Town Hall.
Selectmen Exercise Option to Purchase Thompson Street Property - (May 27, 2008) by: Editor
The Board of Selectmen held a hearing to and voted to officially exercise its right of first refusal option for 12.2 acres of property on Thompson Street. The Town Meeting held two weeks ago gave the selectmen the authority to spend the money. The formal hearing is part of the procedure for purchasing the land which was in a Ch. 61 exemption from full property tax payment. One citizen inquired about the conservation (and agriculture) restriction which was part of the motion at town meeting. His concern shows the attentiveness with which the citizens of the Town of Middleborough are offering. It seems that he will be watching to make sure all of the steps are followed through.
Mosquito Season is Here - (May 27, 2008) by: Editor
Mosquito season has arrived in Southeastern Massachusetts. Those little annoying pests who cause the itch in your arms, legs or wherever else they can sink their biting finger. People should dress appropriately when enjoying outdoor activities during twilight hours. A variety of insect repellants are available. From products with DEET to citronella and eucalyptus oils the choices are endless. The Plymouth County Mosquito Control Project is getting underway treating with Anvil by truck mounted sprayers. People who wish to be classified for no spray should contact the Town Clerk. To request spraying, contact 781-585-5450 in Plymouth County. They also recommend that home owners walk around their house to make sure there are no issues of ponding water where mosquitoes can breed.
Memorial Day in Middleborough - (May 22, 2008) by: Editor
Monday is Memorial Day which is much more than just kick off to summer or a day off from work or school. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance to those who gave their life in the service of our country. Memorial Day was originally know as Decoration Day but was changed to Memorial Day by General John Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic on May 30, 1868. Not until World War I was it recognized throughout the United States. The red poppies that symbolize the day originated from a poem by Moina Michael:
On Monday, May 26, 2008 there will be a parade and ceremony in Middleborough in remembrance of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the rest of us. If you cannot participate in the ceremony, please take a moment and remember. This also kicks off the week that the Traveling Wall will be visiting Middleborough at Battis Field.
Resort Advisory Committee Receives Proposals for Ambulance Study - (May 21, 2008) by: Editor
The Middleborough Resort Advisory Committee reported to the Board of Selectmen that three proposals were received from consultants for the studying the feasibility of a town-run ambulance service. Under the Intergovernmental Agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, the Town of Middleborough can provide ambulance service to the resort facility and will receive monetary compensation and two advance life support (ALS) ambulances. The purpose of the study by an outside consultant is to have an objective report conducted independent of any town department. Funding for the study will be through the preplanning monies provided by the IGA. The Resort Advisory Committee will be discussing the three proposals at their May 28, 2008 meeting (7:30 PM at the Town Hall). The Committee is planning to provide a recommendation of award to the Board of Selectmen at their June 2, 2008 regular meeting.
Bureau of Indian Affairs Issues Regulation Revision - (May 21, 2008) by: Editor
On Tuesday, May 20, 2008, the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs issued revised regulations titled "Gaming on Trust Lands After October 17, 1988; Final Rule". The posting was made in the Federal Register and can be found here (A PDF will open in a new browser window). The regulations are 28 pages and should be reviewed with a copy of 25 CFR Part 292 in hand to allow for easier understanding of the contextual changes incorporated in the new regulations. An article written about the effects of this revision can be found on Indianz.com.
Winthrop-Atkins Offers Town Space - (May 20, 2008) by: Editor
Winthrop-Atkins, located at 35 Main Street in Middleborough has offered the Town of Middleborough an opportunity to have some of the space at their facility. The business has been consolidating and upgrading equipment (smaller and more efficient) over the past few years and the space they have is much larger than they need. Winthrop Atkins is continuing operations in Middleborough. The buildings offered to the town are the older more historic buildings that have been walked through by several department heads (including the building inspector) as well as the Historic Commission. One of the buildings dates back before 1900 but it is noted that all of the buildings are in great shape. The 21E, environmental site assessment will be conducted by Winthrop-Atkins at no cost tot he town. Mass Development and the Weir Corporation of Taunton have been through the facilities to give the town some general ideas. The Office of Economic and Community Development received authorization by the Board of Selectmen last night to spend grant monies to conduct a preliminary feasibility study of the buildings. One suggestion by Selectman Rogers was that the Town has been looking for a good location for a teen center for years.
Selectmen Choose AMR for Ambulance Service - (May 20, 2008) by: Editor
Last evening the Board of Selectmen heard a recommendation by the EMS committee Chairman to for Alert Ambulance to provide ambulance service to the Town of Middleborough. The committee vote was 5-2 for Alert. A dissenting opinion was offered by one of the members of the committee in favor of continuing with AMR, even at a high cost. The Board then heard from both company spokespersons about their level of service they can provide and then asked questions. After over an hour of discussion, the Board chose to select AMR's proposal based on their long term history in the town, their size and depth of ability to provide ambulance service in Middleborough and subject to negotiation of the cost with the EMS committee and ratification by the Board of Selectmen.
Middleborough-Lakeville T Station at Capacity? - (May 19, 2008) by: Editor
In a recent article it was mentioned that the Middleborough-Lakeville MBTA station was being used at or near capacity. The reason given was the most recent rise in ridership was the price of fuel. In January and February of this year the Massachusetts Executive Office of Transportation and Public Works was holding hearings and meetings on expanded rail to New Bedford and Fall River. It was at these meetings where it was pointed out that ridership at the Middleborough-Lakeville T station is extremely high. Most likely due to the fact that it is the end of the line. Riders drive up to 30 minutes to park and take the train into Boston. The price of gas should increase ridership but at near capacity, parking and service expansion is an option. Expansion to Wareham is also an option. Rail service to New Bedford and Fall River is inevitable, just not until 2015 or 2017.
Town Meeting Protects Land - (May 16, 2008) by: Editor
Two articles at last nights town meeting shows the length at which the Town of Middleborough will go to protect its historic ties. Article 31 allowed the Town to partner with the Nature Conservancy and the Wildland Trust of Southeastern Massachusetts to protect an historic home and homestead built in 1762 at the headlands of the Nemasket River. Article 30 passed by a 186 to 2 vote. In Article 30, the townspeople chose to take the first steps to protecting Thompson Streets agricultural history. 12.2 acres of land will be set aside with a conservation / farming restriction in perpetuity. Thompson Street is home to several farms and the only remaining dairy farm in Middleborough. Article 30 was passed unanimously.
Middleborough to Get New Ladder Truck
- (May
16, 2008)
by: Editor
At last evenings Town Meeting, the voters of Middleborough approved the funding of up to $950,000 for a new aerial platform fire truck. The article passed unanimously but not without substantial debate. Chief Russell explained need for the new fire truck, including reference to the Town's mutual aid agreement that lists that we have an available ladder truck. The Chief also explained that due to citizens' comments he investigated the possibility of purchasing a used piece. He stated one was found in Alabama which was a 6-year old refurbished E-One piece for $599,000 that came with a 30 day warrantee (which he didn't recommend). The new E-One unit (like the picture to the right) has a life expectancy of 18 to 20 years with maintenance. One suggestion offered on the floor of town meeting was to replace the entire frame of the truck which was purchased in 1989 from Maxim Motors of Middleborough. One question asked was what would become of the old ladder truck. This writer suggests that it be given to the Middleborough Historic Commission as a moving museum of a bygone industry of Middleborough. The last fire truck off the Maxim Motors assembly line.
Route 44 Work Scheduled This Year - (May 15, 2008) by: Editor
A public hearing held on May 15 at the Middleborough Town Hall. Massachusetts Highway Department conducted the hearing in order to discuss the plans for the four intersections on Route 44 between Route 58 and the Rotary. A brief presentation was given stating that the plans were at 75% design completion and that there are currently no scheduled land takings required. The project engineer discussed how the Routes 44 and 105 intersection has twice the intersection accident rating of the statewide average and how the plans do not take into consideration the building ofa a casino along Route 44. He said that a casino would require "substantially more mitigation". Dedicated left hand and right hand turn lanes are the proposed alternative to reduce traffic queue (time spent waiting) which in turn will reduce air pollution. It will allow the free flow of traffic through the lights. A question from the SRPEDD representative, indicated that the plan will have four way red lights (also known as a delayed green light). This coupled with a signalization plan with traffic loops to "watch" traffic and reduce collisions. Concern for pedestrian and bicycle access across Route 44 was brought up by the Middleborough Town Planner and it was going to be taken under advisement. A tentative schedule has the project completed and bid this fall with construction to begin within 120 days of the receipt of bid.
Town Meeting Night 1 - (May 14, 2008) by: Editor
The first night of town meeting went without surprise. The Special Town Meeting was completed with little debate. The Annual started strong with a balanced budget for Article 2. Working methodically through each department, the citizen's of Middleborough (sum 250 strong) passed the budget without change. Dr. Sullivan spoke about the schools and as usual was very respectful and passionate for the children of the community. He is encouraging the return to better than minimum staffing (recovery plan) but did not attempt to throw the budget out of balance. Several other Articles were debated, most hotly was the 43D proposal for the Middleborough Park at 495 Industrial Park. Citizens and even one selectmen showed concern that they did not know enough about the program to support it. Article 18, rezoning the property across from Stop and Shop (on Route 28) from mostly rural residential (RR) to commercial with emphasis on retail. Article 18 required a two-thirds vote and passed by one vote (101 to 50). The warrant was cleared up through Article 19, when due to the late hour, it was motioned for a recess to Thursday night at 7:00 PM at the High School when Town Meeting will be taking up Article 20 and the leash law.
Citizen's for Limited Taxation Poll Tells Mass Gaming Story- (May 12, 2008) by: Editor
It was reported in the Standard-Times, that the watchdog group, Citizen's for Limited Taxation, paid for a poll of Massachusetts residents which showed that they favor expanded gaming (61% favor to 32% oppose) as a means to provide relief to the budget crisis the state is currently facing. This comes on the heals of Dr. Clyde Barrow's UMass Dartmouth Center for Policy Analysis (CFPA site here) April 2008 casino update showing statewide polling at 57% in favor to 30% against.
Resort Advisory Committee to Back Town Meeting Article - (May 9, 2008) by: Editor
The Middleborough Resort Advisory Committee voted last night to support Article 30 of the Annual Town Meeting to be held on Tuesday May 13, 2008 at the Middleborough High School. The members believe that Thompson Street is a resource of the community in both its rural character and its agricultural richness which should preserved. The motion for support was passed unanimously by the attending members.
Back to Back BIA Casino Approval Announcements - (May 8, 2008)
In as many days, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) has announced its determination to acquire Land into Trust for two Native American Casino projects in the Federal Register. Announced in the May 7, 2008, Federal Register:
Announced in the May 8, 2008, Federal Register:
What this means for the Town of Middleborough is unknown. Since January, there has been much more action at the BIA. I am sure there will be more details coming.
Moving Wall coming to Middleborough May 29 through June 2 - (May 8, 2008) by: Editor
The Moving Wall will be hosted at Battis Field in Middleborough, Massachusetts for viewing beginning after our Opening Ceremonies on Thursday, May 29th through Monday until noon on June 2nd. Staff and security will be on duty 24 hours a day. You may choose to visit the Wall any time, day or night.
For additional information or to volunteer go to Lowrider's website at www.docslowriders.com.
Signs for the Town Meeting Appearing - (May 6, 2008) by: Editor
Red and white signs informing people about the upcoming town meeting in Middleborough are appearing all over town. These signs were not paid for by the town but were the brainchild of a citizen, who wanted to make sure the people knew about the meeting. He solicited donations and ordered the signs. He also printed stickers for the date and time area which will allow the signs to be reused at a future date (with a new sticker). The signs inform the voters of the Annual Town Meeting on Tuesday May 13, 2008 at 7:00 PM at the High School.
Selectmen Post Hearing Information - (May 6, 2008) by: Editor
The Board of Selectmen provided the citizens of Middleborough the electronic copies of the paperwork accompanying the hearing held at their May 5, 2008 meeting on the Town of Middleborough website. This is a first and also a trial. I for one felt more informed about two WRPD hearings and the liquor license hearing which was held. For those viewing at home, they had the ability to have the information without attending the meeting. I suggest that the Board of Selectmen continue this practice and ask for people to write them and ask them to keep providing the information. Agenda, meeting minutes and hearing information can be found on the Selectmen's section of the Town website or by clicking here.
Annual Town Meeting - May 13, 2008 - (May 1, 2008) by: Editor
The Town of Middleborough is holding it's Annual Town Meeting (ATM) on Tuesday May 13, 2008 at 7:00 PM at the High School. There are 43 articles on the warrant which includes (but not limited to) the annual budget, several zoning articles, animal control by-laws and a petition article for a new ladder truck. The ATM will be preceded by the Special Town Meeting with 8 Articles, which are mostly house cleaning prior to the end of the fiscal year. Both warrants can be viewed, downloaded or printed from the Town Website by clicking this link.
Selectmen Choose Hingham Town Manager - (May 1, 2008) by: Editor
The Middleborough Board of Selectmen chose Mr. Charles Cristello as their first choice as the new Town Manager. Mr. Cristello is currently the Town Manager for Hingham and prior to that was the Acting Town Manager in Watertown. The Town Manager Search Committee will be meeting with Mr. Cristello on Wednesday to negotiate a contract. It is expected that the new Town Manager will be working prior to the new fiscal year which begins July 1.
Middleborough May Get Expanded Rail - (April 30, 2008) by: Editor
At an anniversary event in Fall River, it was announced that Middleborough may be the future path of rail service to Fall River and New Bedford. The newly released South Coast Rail - Phase 1 Report, found here, also shows the potential for expanded service to Wareham and Buzzards Bay.
|
