Somerset public meetings in 2025

Planning Board

The Somerset Planning Board will conduct a public hearing on a definitive two‑lot subdivision application submitted by Bernard Miranda for owners Roland and Genevieve Costa, located at 544 Elm Street (Assessor’s Map E‑3, Lot 35). The board will also consider voting on the minutes of the Zoning By‑Law Recodification from September 30, 2025, if the material is ready.

• Public hearing on definitive two‑lot subdivision application for 544 Elm Street
• Vote on minutes of Zoning By‑Law Recodification (Sept 30, 2025) if ready

Advisory & Finance Committee

The Advisory and Finance Committee will consider waiving the reading of the July 14, 2025 meeting minutes and vote to approve them as circulated. It will review and vote on recommendations for articles to be presented at the Special Town Meeting. The committee will discuss its membership in the Massachusetts Municipal Association and address members’ email accounts.

• Waive reading and approve minutes from the July 14, 2025 meeting
• Review and vote on recommendation for articles for the Special Town Meeting
• Discuss membership of the committee in the Massachusetts Municipal Association
• Discuss Advisory and Finance Committee members’ email accounts

The Advisory & Finance Committee voted to recommend several Special Town Meeting articles. Articles 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 were approved, while Articles 3, 4, 10 and 11 received no recommendation. Vote tallies ranged from unanimous (7‑0) to majority (6‑1) and a 5‑1 approval for Article 9.

• Recommend Article 1 ($6,678) approved (6‑1)
• Recommend Article 2 ($524) approved (7‑0)
• Recommend Article 3 ($19,347) rejected (2‑5)
• Recommend Article 4 ($100,000) rejected (0‑7)
• Recommend Article 5 ($2,290,470) approved (7‑0)
• Recommend Article 8 ($800,000) approved (7‑0)
• Recommend Article 9 (business incentive grant trust) approved (5‑1, 1 abstain)
• No recommendation for Article 10 (zoning by‑law amendment) (7‑0)

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The board will approve the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting. It will hold an executive session to discuss the reputation, character, physical condition or mental health of Sarah Sprague, as authorized by M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a). The board will also discuss and approve sick leave bank requests.

• Approval of October 28, 2025 minutes
• Executive session to discuss Sarah Sprague per M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)
• Discussion and approval of sick leave bank requests

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will hold a public hearing to determine if a cable television license should be issued to Comcast of Massachusetts II, Inc. The board will also discuss a presentation from Ripple Fiber regarding fiber optic internet.

• Public hearing on Comcast of Massachusetts II, Inc. cable television license
• Discussion and action on Ripple Fiber presentation for Fiber Optic Internet

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet on Dec 18, 2025 at 4:30 PM in the first‑floor hearing room at 140 Wood St., Somerset. The committee will discuss the eligibility of applications for FY 2027 projects, including historic preservation signage ($10,000), a historic building ($100,000), and several recreation projects ranging from $13,591 to $350,000. After discussion, the committee will vote to approve the eligibility of the submitted applications. The agenda also includes confirming the date, time, and place of the next meeting and a period for citizen input.

• Historic Preservation: Signage for Historic Cemeteries in Somerset – $10,000
• Historic Preservation: Swansea Friends Meeting House – $100,000
• Recreation: Pierce Beach Splash Pad – $176,000
• Recreation: Installation of Athletic Lights at O’Neil Field – $350,000
• Recreation: Reconstruction of upper baseball field adjacent to Hot & Cold Lane South Complex – $59,125

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Somerset Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider four petitions. Two special permits request in‑home uses at 17 Desmond Avenue and 112 Marble Street, and two variances request yard‑setback reductions at 891 Chace Street and 170 North Street. The board will also review correspondence, approve invoices, and adopt the minutes from the 11/20/2025 meeting.

• Special Permit for an in‑home residential kitchen at 17 Desmond Avenue (Section 7.6, Residence District)
• Special Permit for an in‑home office for an electrical business at 112 Marble Street (Section 7.6, Residential District)
• Variance to reduce side and rear‑yard setbacks for an above‑ground pool at 891 Chace Street (Section 5.2, Residence District)
• Variance to reduce side and rear‑yard setbacks for a concrete slab supporting a future ADU at 170 North Street (Section 5.2, Residential District)
• Review and approval of invoices and meeting minutes from 11/20/2025

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss and vote on the 2026 trash and recycling schedule and the signing of a Special Town Meeting Warrant. The meeting includes an executive session regarding real property at Riverside Avenue and a review of numerous annual business license renewals.

• Executive session to discuss real property at Riverside Avenue (Assessor’s Map D1, Lot 110)
• Vote to adopt 2026 Trash/Recycling/Yard Waste/Bulk Pickup/Christmas Tree/Amnesty Week schedule
• Acceptance of two $500 donations for the Police Athletic League from Somerset Fire Fighters Local 2649 and Somerset Police Unions
• Agreement for Heating & Air Conditioning units at 140 Wood Street with Energy Conservation Incorporation
• Annual license renewals for liquor, entertainment, common victualer, and auto dealers

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Somerset Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will waive reading of minutes from three recent meetings and consider a series of approvals and discussions. Items include a lead service line notification contract with Wright‑Pierce, a water service agreement for a lot in Swansea, a change order with C. Naughton Corporation for a service‑fee increase on a pump station project, and a vote on authorizing a plant upgrade design to meet NPDES permit requirements. The board will also discuss lease and sludge‑removal RFPs, appoint a new collection system chief operator, and consider a 2% pay raise for the superintendent and annual drain‑layer license renewals.

• Consider approval and sign Wright‑Pierce Task Order No. 32 for Lead Service Line Notifications
• Consider approval and sign Water Service Agreement for Lot 1, Assessor’s Map 31, Plot 2, Swansea, MA 02777
• Consider approval and sign Change Order No. 1 with C. Naughton Corporation for a service fee increase for the High Service Pump Station and Water Mains Project DWSRF No. 7134
• Discuss and vote on authorizing Wright‑Pierce to proceed with plant upgrade design for NPDES permit compliance
• Discussion of RFP for lease of 3256 County Street, Somerset

The Board waived the reading of the November 19 minutes and tabled the December 3 and 4 minutes. It approved a one‑year sewer usage abatement for Carol Francis totaling $1,714.92. Jason Howard was appointed Collection System Chief Operator effective Dec. 22. The Board also approved Wright‑Pierce Task Order 32 for lead service line notifications, a water service agreement for the Pontes Irrevocable Trust, and Change Order 1 with C. Naughton Corp for a $23,908 service‑fee increase. All motions passed unanimously.

• Waived reading of Nov. 19 minutes (all in favor)
• Tabled Dec. 3 and Dec. 4 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved $1,714.92 sewer usage abatement for Carol Francis (all in favor)
• Appointed Jason Howard as Collection System Chief Operator (all in favor)
• Approved Wright‑Pierce Task Order No. 32 for lead service line notifications (all in favor)
• Approved water service agreement for Pontes Irrevocable Trust (all in favor)
• Approved Change Order No. 1 with C. Naughton Corp for $23,908 fee increase (all in favor)

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Greater Fall River Vocational School District Committee will meet on December 17, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. in the District Office Conference Room, 251 Stonehaven Road, Fall River. The agenda allows public comment from up to ten individuals, three minutes each, on agenda items. The committee will discuss an individual employment agreement for Christopher Valton, Accountant. An executive session will be held to plan strategy for negotiations with nonunion personnel, also involving Christopher Valton.

• Individual employment agreement for Christopher Valton, Accountant
• Executive session to plan strategy for negotiations with nonunion personnel (Christopher Valton)
• Public comment limited to ten speakers, three minutes each

Trustees of the Public Library

The Somerset Public Library Board of Trustees will approve the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting and hear the Director’s monthly report for November 2025. The board will address the resignation of Michelle McGowen and the hiring of a new part‑time library assistant. Items also include discussion of a State Aid Award, the FY 2027 budget schedule, and a vote on the Meeting Room Use Policy.

• Approval of November 18, 2025 meeting minutes (vote required)
• Director’s Monthly Report for November 2025 (vote required)
• Resignation of Michelle McGowen and hiring of new part‑time library assistant
• State Aid Award
• FY 2027 budget schedule

The trustees voted to approve the November 18, 2025 meeting minutes and to accept the Director's Report for November 2025 as presented. Both motions passed unanimously. No other formal actions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved November 18, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved Director's November 2025 report (5-0)

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Southeastern Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization is meeting to endorse transit amendments and a series of project changes to the FFY2026-2030 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The body will also consider adopting the 2025 Public Participation and Language Assistance Plans.

• FFY2026-2030 TIP Amendment #2 regarding GATRA and SRTA transit
• Proposed TIP Amendment #3 including Somerset Route 103 stormwater improvements and Route 6/Lees River Ave intersection improvements
• Proposed TIP Amendment #3 including New Bedford bridge replacement (I-195) and Taunton Danforth Street Bridge reconstruction
• 2025 SMMPO Public Participation Plan and Language Assistance Plan
• Critical Rural and Urban Freight Corridor proposed considerations

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The committee will review the November financial statement and updates on excess and deficiencies, capital and stabilization accounts. It will discuss and act on approval of a new student activity account for the Class of 2029, and consider several policy items, including a new school food and nutrition meal modifications policy and amendments to home‑schooling and graduation‑requirements policies. Additional topics include a discussion of Massachusetts proposed graduation requirements, an artificial‑intelligence policy, and staffing changes. The meeting will also include approval of the November 18, 2025 open and executive session minutes.

• Approval of a new Student Activity Account — Class of 2029
• First reading of School Food & Nutrition – Meal Modifications (EFBA) (new policy)
• Amendment of Home Schooling policy (IHBG)
• Amendment of Graduation Requirements policy (IKF)
• Approval of November 18, 2025 Open Session, Joint Open Session, and Joint Executive Session minutes (redacted)

Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee

The Executive Committee will elect a new chair, who will serve until the September 2026 annual meeting. The meeting will also approve the previous minutes and receive updates on coalition attendance, the Local State Advisory Committee, and Budget Period 2 priorities and deliverables. Additional updates will be given by the Health & Medical Coordinating Coalition and the statewide public health coordinator.

• Election of new Executive Committee chair (term until September 2026)
• Approval of meeting minutes
• Review of Budget Period 2 priorities and identification of two training courses
• Health & Medical Coordinating Coalition (HMCC) program update
• Announcement of next Region 5 stakeholder meeting on Jan 9 2026 (Middleborough Town Hall) and coalition meeting on Jan 20 2026 (Lakeville Public Library)

Conservation Commission

The Somerset Conservation Commission will consider three permit requests: a determination of applicability for an 892‑sq‑ft addition with a deck at 740 North St., a notice of intent for a seawall above the high‑water mark plus a handicap path, children’s swings, adult benches, and parking improvements at Massasoit St. (lots 205, 206, 231), and a certificate of compliance for a dock at 362 Main St. The meeting will also include routine items such as roll call, vote, and approval of prior minutes.

• Request for determination of applicability for 892‑sq‑ft addition at 740 North St., near wetlands
• Notice of intent for seawall, handicap path, beach swings, benches, and parking at Massasoit St. lots 205, 206, 231
• Certificate of Compliance request for dock construction at 362 Main St. (DEP file 070‑0531)
• Review and approval of minutes from the previous meeting
• Public input period

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Greater Fall River Vocational School District Committee will discuss MSBA school building expenditures and a prime contract change order. The board will also consider several personnel appointments, policy updates, and a list of surplus equipment for disposal.

• Vote on MSBA Prime Contract Change Order (PCCO) No. 012 and project expenditures
• Personnel appointments for LPN, Plumbing, Molecular Gastronomy, and Graphic Communications instructors
• Proposed policy changes regarding purchasing, graduation requirements, and student activity funds
• Vote on 25/26 school calendar changes and budget amendments
• Review of surplus equipment for disposal, including 3D printers, solar panels, and classroom furniture

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The LPN Sub‑Committee will meet on Dec 11, 2025 to approve the minutes from the Nov 13 meeting, receive an update on the Licensed Practical Nurse program, and consider a vote on relocating the program. The meeting will be held in the District Office Conference Room at 251 Stonehaven Road, Fall River, MA.

• Approval of November 13, 2025 minutes
• Program update for the LPN program
• Discussion of the LPN program
• Potential vote on relocation of the LPN program

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Policy Sub-Committee will discuss and potentially vote on guidelines for Student Activity Agency Accounts. The board will also review policies regarding purchasing, graduation requirements, and student activities.

• Student Activity Agency Account Guidelines & Procedures
• Policy DJ: Purchasing
• Policy IKF: Graduation Requirements and Policy IKFE: Competency Determination
• Policy JJ: Co-Curricular and Extracurricular Activities
• Policy JJF: Student Activities Funds Management and Policy JJH: Student Travel

Housing Authority

The Somerset Housing Authority will approve minutes from the November 25, 2025 special meeting and approve the warrant for November 2025. The meeting includes reports from the Executive Director and the Community Preservation Committee. New business includes a discussion and board vote to review and sign the Participation Agreement for the 2025‑2026 Massachusetts State‑Aided Property Insurance Program. Resident comments will be heard and the next meeting date will be set.

• Approval of minutes from the November 25, 2025 special meeting
• Approval of warrant for November 2025
• Executive Director report on day‑to‑day activities
• Community Preservation Committee update
• Board vote to review and sign the Participation Agreement for the 2025‑2026 State‑Aided Property Insurance Program

The Somerset Housing Authority approved the minutes from the November 25, 2025 special meeting and the November 2025 warrant, both by unanimous vote. The board also voted unanimously to sign the Participation Agreement for the 2025‑2026 Massachusetts State‑Aided Property Insurance Program. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved November 25, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved November 2025 warrant (unanimous)
• Approved signing of 2025‑2026 Massachusetts State‑Aided Property Insurance Program participation agreement (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Registrars

The Board of Registrars will discuss early voting options for the 2026 Annual Town Election and vote on a recommendation to the Board of Selectmen. The meeting agenda also includes a proposed vote to waive the reading of the July 14, 2025, minutes.

• Waive reading of July 14, 2025, minutes
• Discuss early voting options for 2026 election
• Vote on recommendation to Board of Selectmen

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Joint Transportation Planning Group will review minutes, transit authority updates, and public participation plans. The group will also discuss a MassDOT presentation on intersection control and TIP projects from Fairhaven.

• Approval of November 12, 2025 minutes
• 2025 SMMPO Public Participation Plan (vote needed)
• 2025 SMMPO Language Assistance Plan (vote needed)
• MassDOT Intersection Control Evaluation presentation
• Fairhaven TIP projects on Sconticut Neck Road

Playground & Recreation Commission

The commission will discuss new Community Preservation Act (C.P.A.) projects and provide status updates on ongoing C.P.A. initiatives. The meeting also includes updates on facilities and reviews of recent holiday events.

• New C.P.A. projects: Athletic Lights at O’Neill and Splash Pad at Pierce Beach
• C.P.A. project status: Pierce Beach Basketball/Tennis/Pickle Ball Courts
• C.P.A. project status: Bicycle Playground at Pottersville
• C.P.A. project status: Engineered Wood Fiber at Recreation Sites
• Review of New York City Trip on December 13

The Playground & Recreation Commission approved the November 13, 2025 meeting minutes by a unanimous 5‑aye vote. The commission then adjourned the December 10 meeting at 7:09 pm, also by a unanimous 5‑aye vote. No new projects, budgets, or policy items were approved or denied.

• Approved November 13, 2025 minutes (5‑aye)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:09 pm (5‑aye)

Cultural Council

The Somerset Cultural Council will hold a special meeting to present and vote on FY2026 grant applications. The agenda includes a vote to waive reading of the September 30, 2025 minutes and to suspend the regular agenda and public comments. The council will review a spreadsheet of 36 applications requesting a combined $194,781.

• Proposed vote to waive reading of the September 30, 2025 minutes
• Proposed vote to suspend the regular agenda and public comments
• Presentation to the council by Richard Pierce for FOSHP
• Review, discussion, and vote on FY2026 grant applications
• Total requested grant amount of $194,781 across multiple projects

The council waived reading of the September 30, 2025 minutes and suspended the regular agenda to consider grant applications. A letter of support was approved for the Friends Meeting House $80,000 restoration grant. The council then unanimously approved $12,730 in grant awards for various local projects. No action was taken on election appointment dates and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Waived reading of September 30, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Suspended regular agenda to consider grant applications (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Friends Meeting House $80,000 grant (unanimous)
• Approved $12,730 in grant awards (unanimous)
• John L. abstained from voting on historical‑society‑related applications
• Election appointment dates discussed; no action taken
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee will consider solutions for hiring an additional custodian and discuss an artificial‑intelligence policy. The meeting includes a review of the November financial statement and first‑reading votes on a new school food and nutrition meal‑modification ordinance and an amendment to the home‑schooling ordinance. The committee will also accept a $1,000 donation from the Feinstein Foundation for Chace St. School and approve the open‑session minutes from November 18, 2025.

• Discuss and act on solutions/options for hiring an additional custodian
• Discussion on artificial‑intelligence (AI) policy
• November financial statement
• First reading of school food & nutrition – meal modifications (new ordinance)
• Acceptance of a $1,000 donation from the Feinstein Foundation to Chace St. School

The Somerset School Committee voted unanimously to approve the improvement plans for North, South, and Chace schools. It also adopted the Middle School Pathway Exploration policy, approved the first reading of two new policies (School Food & Nutrition – Meal Modification and Home Schooling), accepted a $1,000 donation for Chace Street School, and approved the November 18, 2025 minutes. Discussion on hiring an additional custodian was deferred, and the meeting was adjourned by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved North, South, and Chace school improvement plans (unanimous)
• Adopted Middle School Pathway Exploration policy (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of School Food & Nutrition – Meal Modification policy (EFBA) (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of Home Schooling policy (IHBG) (unanimous)
• Accepted $1,000 donation from Feinstein Foundation to Chace Street School (unanimous)
• Approved November 18, 2025 open and executive session minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0 vote)
• Deferred discussion on hiring an additional custodian (no decision)

Somerset School Committee

The Redistricting Committee will meet to report out and discuss cross-focus group alignments. The committee will also break into subcommittees to analyze the impacts of redistricting on special education, transportation, families, education, and finances.

• Discussion of cross-focus group alignments
• Acceptance of November 18, 2025 minutes
• Special Education focus group analysis
• Transportation and Facilities focus group analysis
• Fiscal Impact and Staffing focus group analysis

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The MSBA School Building Committee will receive project updates from Colliers, Kaestle Boos, and Suffolk Construction. The committee will discuss and potentially vote on three prime contract change orders.

• Project updates from Colliers, Kaestle Boos, and Suffolk Construction
• Vote on Prime Contract Change Order PCCONo. 012
• Vote on Prime Contract Change Order PCCONo. 012.1 (Internal Change Order)
• Vote on PCO 566 regarding Adhesive Upgrade & Moisture Mitigation Scope, LL Seq 1 & Seq 2

Board of Selectmen

The Somerset Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners, meeting jointly with the Board of Selectmen, will hold an executive session. In that session they will consider a purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property needed for an interconnection underground pipe. The property in question is located at 116 Walker Street.

• Consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property for interconnection underground pipe – 116 Walker Street

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen and Water & Sewer Commissioners will hold an executive session to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of the Interconnection Underground Pipe at 116 Walker Street. In the open session they will waive the reading of the October 30, 2025 minutes, hold a public hearing on a Class 11 auto dealer license for C & C Auto Sales at 4053 County Street, and consider several appointments and policy items such as snowplow service rates and a veterans banner program. They will also discuss budget guidelines and review Special Town Meeting warrant articles, including a $2,290,470 request to replace North Elementary School and a $100,000 allocation for building ADA equipment.

• Executive session: consider purchase/lease of Interconnection Underground Pipe, 116 Walker St.
• Public hearing: C & C Auto Sales Class 11 auto dealer license, 4053 County St.
• Appointment: Juan Pheonix Leigh as Firefighter/Paramedic
• Discussion: snowplow and sanding private services compensation rate increase
• Special Town Meeting warrant: $2,290,470 for North Elementary School replacement; $100,000 for building ADA equipment

The Selectmen approved multiple actions, including appointing Juan Pheonix Leigh of Upton as a Firefighter/Paramedic pending required exams and background checks, effective Jan 4 2026. They also appointed Stephen Souza as a Highway Department Laborer, endorsed the Sowams National Heritage Area designation, increased snowplow and sanding contractor compensation, approved a Veterans Advisory Board Hometown Hero Banner program, and rejected a proposed committee‑vacancy policy. All votes were unanimous (3‑0) except the vacancy‑policy rejection, which passed 2‑1.

• Approved executive‑session minutes of Nov 13 2025 (3‑0)
• Waived reading of Oct 30 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Appointed Juan Pheonix Leigh as Firefighter/Paramedic, contingent on exams and background checks (3‑0)
• Appointed Stephen Souza as Laborer 1, Highway Department, effective Dec 8 2025 (3‑0)
• Endorsed Sowams National Heritage Area designation (3‑0)
• Approved snowplow and sanding contractor compensation increase: $1,000 sign‑on bonus and $10 hourly raise (3‑0)
• Approved Veterans Advisory Board Hometown Hero Banner program at $160 cost (3‑0)
• Rejected proposed committee vacancy policy (2‑1)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Somerset Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will hold an executive session with the Board of Selectmen. They will consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property for an interconnection underground pipe located at 116 Walker Street. No decision has been recorded yet.

• Consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property for an interconnection underground pipe at 116 Walker Street

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The joint meeting of the Somerset Board of Selectmen and the Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will hold executive sessions to discuss a property transaction for an interconnection underground pipe at 116 Walker Street and to approve prior executive‑session minutes. In the open session, the board will hold a public hearing on a Class 11 auto dealer license for C & C Auto Sales at 4053 County Street, consider several appointment votes, and review budget guidelines and Special Town Meeting warrant articles, including a $2,290,470 school‑building replacement project.

• Executive session to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property for an interconnection underground pipe at 116 Walker Street
• Public hearing on application for a Class 11 auto dealer license for C & C Auto Sales at 4053 County Street
• Votes to appoint Juan Pheonix Leigh (firefighter/paramedic), Stephen Souza (highway laborer), and members to Cultural Council and Council on Aging
• Discussion of snowplow and sanding private services compensation rates
• Review of Special Town Meeting warrant articles, notably $2,290,470 for North Elementary School replacement and $100,000 for building ADA equipment

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners met with the Board of Selectmen on December 4, 2025. All three commissioners were present. Vice Chairman Bednarik moved, and Clerk Lima seconded, a motion that was approved by all members. No other matters were decided.

• Approved motion to open meeting (3-0)

Historical Commission

The Somerset Historical Commission will hear a representative from Graphic Signs about ordering the first signs for historic cemeteries using 2025 CPA grant funds. The board will review and vote on the draft CPA 2026 Application for Eligibility, which is due on December 5, 2025. Minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting and the Treasurer’s reports for October and November 2025 will also be considered for approval.

• Guest from Graphic Signs to discuss sign details and ordering first historic cemetery signs using 2025 CPA grant funds
• Review draft of CPA 2026 Application for Eligibility, due 12/5/2025, and vote to approve if ready
• Review and vote to approve minutes from 11/6/2025
• Presentation of Treasurer’s Report for Oct. 2025 and Nov. 2025, with vote to approve each
• No meeting in January 2026; next meeting scheduled for 2/5/2025

The Somerset Historical Commission approved the draft Application for Community Preservation Eligibility with a unanimous vote. It also decided on signage details—blue signs with white engraved lettering and a metallic gold date—and approved the November 6 minutes and the October and November Treasurer’s reports unanimously. Digitization of the Book of Records of Shawomet Lands will continue through 2026, and the commission was briefed on a newly discovered historic cemetery at Brayton Point.

• Approved draft Community Preservation Eligibility (4-0)
• Decided signage details: blue signs, white engraved lettering, metallic gold date
• Approved November 6 minutes (4-0)
• Approved October and November Treasurer’s reports (4-0)
• Noted that first four signs will be erected in Spring 2026
• Acknowledged new historic cemetery at Brayton Point
• Provided update on Quaker Meeting House cemetery survey and planned signage

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Somerset Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will consider waiving the reading of recent meeting minutes and approve them as circulated. Commissioners will consider abatements for three properties: 24 Sadie Way, 329 Washington Avenue, and 240 Westhill Avenue. The board will discuss and act on renewing the Water Distribution & Sewage Collection System Emergency Repairs contract with Coastal Water Sewer & Excavation Inc., and will approve a DEP grant payment and a change order for electrical work at the Owen Avenue Pump Station. Routine reports and updates on permits and rate studies will also be presented.

• Consider abatement for Michael Guidotti, 24 Sadie Way
• Consider abatement for Somerset Overseas Veterans, Inc., 329 Washington Avenue
• Consider abatement for William Mullen, 240 Westhill Avenue
• Renew Water Distribution & Sewage Collection System Emergency Repairs contract with Coastal Water Sewer & Excavation Inc.
• Approve DEP Grant No. DWA-24-87, Payment Requisition No. 1 for Somerset Water Treatment Plant Asset Management Plan

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners renewed a one‑year contract with Coastal Water Sewer & Excavation Inc. and approved a $26,974 DEP grant payment and a $6,075.64 change order with Biszko Building Systems. It also approved a $0 National Grid electric work proposal for Millers Lane and entered executive session for real‑property matters. Several minutes were waived or tabled and three abatement requests were tabled.

• Renewed 1‑year contract with Coastal Water Sewer & Excavation Inc.
• Approved and signed DEP grant payment requisition for $26,974 (all in favor)
• Approved and signed Change Order No. 2 with Biszko Building Systems for $6,075.64 (all in favor)
• Approved National Grid Electric Service Proposal No. 311404554 for $0 work at Millers Lane (all in favor)
• Waived reading and approved October 22, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Tabled minutes of November 5 and November 19, 2025 meetings (all in favor)
• Tabled three abatement requests (Guidotti, Somerset Overseas Veterans, Inc., Mullen) (all in favor)
• Entered executive session to approve executive‑session minutes and consider real‑property matters (all in favor)

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Job Description Review Sub-Committee will meet to conduct business in executive session. The primary focus is the review of job descriptions related to DAA.

• Executive session to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining or litigation for DAA job description review

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset Middle School Building Committee will meet to receive reports from the project manager and architect. The committee is scheduled to review and approve construction change orders and owner contingency expenditures.

• Review and approval of construction change orders
• Review and approval of owner contingency expenditures
• Approval of November 3, 2025 School Building Committee minutes

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee will review several agenda items, including a presentation by the Program of Academic Exchange (PAX) to determine whether to approve it as an exchange student organization. The committee will also consider a facility rental fee schedule, discuss promotion and retention of students, and review graduation requirements. The subcommittee will vote on the September 25, 2025 minutes. In a joint session, the committees will address school food and nutrition meal modifications, home schooling policies, and approve the September 25, 2025 joint minutes.

• Presentation by Program of Academic Exchange (PAX) for approval as exchange student organization
• Facility Rental Fee Schedule
• Promotion and Retention of Students
• Graduation Requirements
• School Food & Nutrition – Meal Modifications

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee Policy Subcommittee will discuss several agenda items, including a presentation by the Program of Academic Exchange (PAX) for possible approval as an exchange student organization. The subcommittee will also review a Facility Rental Fee Schedule, promotion and retention policies, and graduation requirements, and vote on September 25, 2025 minutes. In a joint meeting with the Somerset Public Schools Policy Subcommittee, members will address school food and nutrition meal modifications, home schooling matters, and approve joint meeting minutes.

• Consider approval of Program of Academic Exchange (PAX) as an exchange student organization
• Review and possible adoption of Facility Rental Fee Schedule
• Discussion of Promotion and Retention of Students (IKE)
• Review of Graduation Requirements (IKF)
• Meal Modifications under School Food & Nutrition (EFBA)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a joint meeting with the Board of Selectmen to conduct a tax classification hearing. The hearing will take place at the Somerset Public Library Cucinotta Community Room on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 6:00 pm.

• Tax Classification Hearing (joint with Board of Selectmen)

Board of Selectmen

The Somerset Board of Selectmen and Board of Assessors will hold a tax classification hearing as required by state law. The hearing will determine the percentage of the tax burden each class of property will bear for Fiscal Year 2026. The meeting also includes routine citizen input, administrator updates, and other items not pre‑listed.

• Tax Classification Hearing to set FY 2026 property tax burden percentages

The Board of Selectmen voted to adjust the commercial tax shift to 1.72% for fiscal year 2026. The motion was made by Selectman Smith, seconded by Selectman Costa, and approved by a roll‑call vote with all three selectmen voting aye. Additional procedural motions to open and close the tax classification hearing and to adjourn the meeting were also approved.

• Motion to open the meeting approved (Chairman Michael Correia, roll‑call Ayes)
• Motion to open the tax classification hearing approved (Selectman Souza, seconded by Selectman Costa, roll‑call Ayes)
• Motion to adjust commercial tax shift to 1.72% approved (Selectman Smith, seconded by Selectman Costa, roll‑call Ayes)
• Motion to close the public hearing approved (Selectman Souza, seconded by Selectman Costa, roll‑call Ayes)
• Motion by Michael Correia to close Board of Assessors public hearing approved (roll‑call Ayes)
• Motion to adjourn approved (Selectman Souza, seconded by Selectman Costa, roll‑call Ayes)

Housing Authority

The Somerset Housing Authority will meet to approve the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, the Executive Director's salary, and a revised non-smoking policy. The board will also discuss allowing the Executive Director to carry over unused vacation time.

• Approval of FY2026 Budget
• Approval of Executive Director salary
• Approval of revised non-smoking policy
• Allowing Executive Director to carry over vacation time
• Approval of lease addendums for tenants

The board approved the operating budget for fiscal year 2026, requesting a $326,462 subsidy and confirming the Executive Director’s salary of $129,437. It also approved the Executive Director’s vacation carry‑over, the revised smoke‑free policy with lease addendums, and the minutes from the November 6 meeting. All motions passed unanimously except the budget, which passed 5‑0.

• Approved FY2026 operating budget (Revenue $1,243,662; Expenses $1,223,662; subsidy $326,462) – vote 5‑0
• Approved Executive Director’s salary $129,437 for FY2026 – included in budget approval
• Approved carry‑over of Executive Director’s unused vacation time – unanimous
• Approved revised smoke‑free policy and lease addendums – unanimous
• Approved minutes of November 6, 2025 meeting – unanimous
• Adjourned the special meeting – unanimous

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will hold public hearings regarding a utility pole installation and a business license application. The body will discuss and act on these specific petitions during the meeting.

• Petition from National Grid to install one pole on Palmer Street
• Class 11 Auto Dealers license application for C & C Auto Sales at 4053 County Street

The Selectmen opened and then closed a public hearing to approve National Grid's request for a new pole on Palmer Street. They also opened a public hearing for C & C Auto Sales' Class 11 auto dealer license, closed that hearing, and voted to continue the discussion at the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7:08 p.m.

• Open public hearing for National Grid pole (3-0)
• Close public hearing for National Grid pole (3-0)
• Open public hearing for C & C Auto Sales license (3-0)
• Close public hearing for C & C Auto Sales (3-0)
• Continue discussion on C & C Auto Sales until next meeting (3-0)
• Adjourn meeting (2-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider three petitions: an In‑Home Occupation for a realty office at 20 Williamson Drive, an In‑Home Occupation for a charcuterie business at 206 Palmer Street, and a variance to reduce the front‑yard setback at 201 Macarthur Avenue. The board will also address other business, including a request to re‑apply for a previously denied variance at 7 Halsey Avenue, review and approve invoices and meeting minutes, and vote on the date for the December meeting. The meeting will be recorded and streamed live on SATV channel 15.

• Petition for In‑Home Occupation at 20 Williamson Drive (realty office) – Derek Fortuna
• Petition for In‑Home Occupation at 206 Palmer Street (charcuterie business) – Alysa Freni Niles
• Variance request at 201 Macarthur Avenue to reduce front‑yard setback – Bryan Sousa
• Request to re‑apply for previously denied variance at 7 Halsey Avenue – Matthew Silvia
• Review and approve invoices, meeting minutes, and vote on December meeting date

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will meet to review connection applications and a water service agreement. The board will also receive updates on a water and sewer rate study and an NPDES permit for the Water Pollution Control Facility. Executive sessions are scheduled to discuss real property values and Fall River Regionalization.

• Abatement consideration for Michael Guidotti of 24 Sadie Way
• Water Service Agreement for Lot 1, Assessor’s Map 31, Plot 2, Swansea, MA
• New water application for 1901 County Street, Dighton, MA
• Update on Water and Sewer Rate Study
• Executive session regarding real property at 3256 County Street, Somerset, MA

The Board approved a motion to waive reading of the October 8, 2025 minutes and to table the October 22 and November 5, 2025 minutes, each with all members in favor. It tabled three items: an abatement for Michael Guidotti at 24 Sadie Way, a water service agreement for Lot 1 on Assessors Map 3, Plot 2 in Swansea, and a water service application for 1901 County Street, Dighton. The Board then moved into executive session to consider Fall River regionalization and other matters.

• Waived reading of Oct 8 2025 minutes (approved, all in favor)
• Tabled Oct 22 and Nov 5 2025 minutes (approved, all in favor)
• Tabled abatement request for 24 Sadie Way, Somerset (tabled)
• Tabled water service agreement for Lot 1, Assessors Map 3, Plot 2, Swansea (tabled)
• Tabled water service application for 1901 County Street, Dighton (tabled)
• Entered executive session to discuss Fall River regionalization (approved)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review municipal budget updates for July and August, grant expenditures, and gift account records. The board will also discuss operational updates and upcoming holiday programming.

• Municipal Budget updates for July and August
• Grant status and expenditures update
• Gifts account expenditures and receipts
• Discussion of mini unit upgrades
• Planning for Christmas party and Breakfast with Santa

The board voted to accept the July 2025 meeting minutes, with all members in favor. A motion to adjourn the November 19 meeting was then made and approved unanimously. No other formal actions were taken.

• Accepted July 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:17 am (unanimous)

Trustees of the Public Library

The Somerset Public Library Board will approve the October 21, 2025 meeting minutes and hear the Director’s October 2025 monthly report. A presentation by John Larsen on the Sowams National Heritage Area will be given. Trustees will vote to amend the Library Card Policy and the Meeting Room Use Policy. An update on the Digital Navigator position and selection of the next policy for review will also be discussed.

• Approve October 21, 2025 meeting minutes (vote required)
• Director’s October 2025 monthly report (vote required)
• John Larsen presentation – Sowams as a National Heritage Area
• Vote to amend Library Card Policy and Meeting Room Use Policy
• Update on Digital Navigator position

The trustees approved the October 21, 2025 meeting minutes, accepted the Director’s Report, and adopted a revision to the children’s library card policy. They agreed to draft a letter of support for the SOWAMS National Heritage Area proposal. Discussion and vote on the Meeting Room Use Policy were postponed to the December meeting.

• Approved October 21, 2025 minutes (vote: G Bradbury, J Dyl, J Foley, B Marcotte, E Ponte)
• Accepted Director’s Report (vote: G Bradbury, J Dyl, J Foley, B Marcotte, E Ponte)
• Adopted amendment to Library Card Policy for children’s cards (vote: G Bradbury, J Dyl, J Foley, B Marcotte, E Ponte)
• Decided to draft a letter of support for the SOWAMS Heritage Area project
• Tabled discussion and vote on Meeting Room Use Policy until December meeting
• Digital Navigator position filled with Isabella Rocha (19 hours/week)

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Southeastern Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will vote on amendments to the FFY2026-2030 Transportation Improvement Program, including funding for the Mansfield to Logan Shuttle and New Bedford intersection improvements. The body will also endorse transit adjustments and release a proposed amendment to a public comment period.

• Vote to endorse FFY2026-2030 TIP Proposed Amendment #1
• Vote to endorse FFY2026-2030 TIP Proposed Adjustment #2
• Vote to release FFY2026-2030 TIP Proposed Amendment #2 to public comment
• Mansfield to Logan Shuttle Bus (Blue Apple Bus) Year 4 Funding
• New Bedford Intersection Improvements at Mount Pleasant Street and Nash Road

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will review a presentation regarding Salt Cod Storage from FlatIron Energy. The body will also receive updates on the Route 103/Wilbur Avenue project and the Downtown Beautification Program. Several items, including the Slades Ferry Zoning Open House and the Special Town Meeting, have been postponed to January.

• Presentation from FlatIron Energy regarding Salt Cod Storage
• Route 103/Wilbur Avenue Project update
• Downtown Beautification Program status update
• Brightman Bridge Overlook / Fishing Pier update
• 2026 BBQFest Event discussion

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee and Somerset School Committee are holding a joint meeting to recognize retiring and current staff. The regional committee will discuss mathematics graduation requirements, 2025-2026 superintendent goals, and several policy amendments.

• Action on Mathematics Graduation Requirements and commencing class for new requirements
• Action on 2025-2026 Superintendent’s Goals
• Action on Declaration of Trust Amendment for Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB)
• First reading of policies for Competency Determination (IKFE) and Public Participation (BEDH)
• Second reading of policies including School Visitor Policy (KI) and Parent Advisory Councils (KBG)

The school committee voted 5‑1 to make four years of mathematics a graduation requirement for the class of 2028. It also approved the superintendent’s 2025‑2026 goals, expanded the Board of Trustees to twelve members, and moved several policy amendments through first and second readings. Additionally, the committee accepted a bass‑guitar donation, adopted a citation for William Aguiar, and entered then returned from executive session.

• Approved four-year math graduation requirement for class of 2028 (5-1)
• Approved 2025-2026 Superintendent’s Goals (6-0)
• Approved expansion of Board of Trustees to twelve members (6-0)
• Approved first reading of Competency Determination (IKFE) amendment (6-0)
• Approved second reading of multiple policy amendments (6-0)
• Accepted donation of bass guitar to music department (6-0)
• Adopted citation for William Aguiar (unanimous)
• Entered executive session (5-0) and later returned to open session (6-0)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee will consider changes to mathematics graduation requirements and the start of a new class. The meeting also includes recognitions for long‑standing staff, introductions of new food‑service managers, and several policy amendments. Financial matters such as the October financial statement and open‑session minutes will be reviewed.

• Citation for William Aguiar retiring after 57 years of service
• Recognition of Jason Morency for ten years as Food Service Manager
• Introduction of Chartwells Food Service Manager Carl Peterson and Assistant Kerri Martel
• Discussion and action on mathematics graduation requirements and commencement of a new class
• Amendments to policies such as competency determination, athletic concussion, and parent advisory councils

Both the Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee and the Somerset School Committee unanimously adopted the prepared citation honoring William Aguiar. The Somerset School Committee voted 5‑0 to enter Executive Session for collective‑bargaining strategy and will not return to Open Session. The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee voted 6‑0 to enter Executive Session for the same purpose but will return to Open Session.

• Adopt citation for William Aguiar (Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee) – unanimous vote
• Adopt citation for William Aguiar (Somerset School Committee) – unanimous vote
• Enter Executive Session (Somerset School Committee) – 5-0 vote, will not return to Open Session
• Enter Executive Session (Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee) – 6-0 vote, will return to Open Session

Somerset School Committee

The Redistricting Committee will meet to report out and discuss alignments between various focus groups. Members will break into subcommittees to analyze the impacts of redistricting on special education, transportation, facilities, students, families, education, and staffing.

• Discussion of cross-focus group alignments
• Appointment of a point person for Transportation and Facilities to replace Matthew Talbot
• Acceptance of November 5, 2025 minutes
• Analysis of fiscal impact and staffing
• Analysis of special education and educational impacts

Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee

The Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee will receive updates on the Health & Medical Coordinating Coalition (HMCC) program, its budget, and planning activities. The agenda includes reports on training opportunities, inventory status, translation services, and statewide public health information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. No formal decisions are indicated; the meeting is for informational updates and coordination.

• HMCC program updates
• HMCC budget updates
• Planner updates: training opportunities, inventory process, pocket talk translators, translate live units
• Statewide Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) coordinator update
• Announcement of next Region 5 Coalition meeting on Dec 16, 2025

Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee

The Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Executive Committee will review and vote on the final draft of the revised Principles of Operation. The meeting will also cover budget period two priorities, identify two training courses, consider cell phone reimbursement eligibility, and discuss space for a coalition member to attend the NACCHO Preparedness Conference. Updates from the Health & Medical Coordinating Coalition and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health will be presented.

• Vote on the final draft of the revised Principles of Operation (POO)
• Review of Budget Period 2 priorities and deliverables
• Identification of two training courses (TNA)
• Review of cell phone reimbursement eligibility
• Discussion of additional space for a coalition member to attend the NACCHO Preparedness Conference

Conservation Commission

The Somerset Conservation Commission will review a request for a garage addition and a town project for beach and seawall improvements. The commission will also address an emergency repair filing from National Grid.

• Request for Determination for a 624 square foot garage addition at 2626 Riverside Ave.
• Notice of Intent for a seawall, handicap beach path, swings, gliders, and parking improvements at Massasoit St.
• Emergency Certification from National Grid to repair a broken crossarm off Lee’s River Ave.

Board of Selectmen

The Somerset Board of Selectmen will discuss and vote on several items, including appointing members to local committees, adopting a code of conduct, and approving contracts. Key contracts include legal services with Harrington Heep LLP for Brayton Point environmental matters, a bocce court replacement with JAM Corporation, and access‑management lockers for the Somerset Police Department with Real Time Networks, Inc. The board will also review executive‑session minutes and discuss litigation strategy related to Brayton Point LLC.

• Vote to authorize the Town Administrator to sign a legal services agreement with Harrington Heep LLP for environmental regulation and monitoring of Brayton Point LLC (1 Brayton Point Road)
• Vote to appoint Kathleen Souza to the Cultural Council committee (term ending June 30, 2031)
• Vote to approve a contract with JAM Corporation to replace the bocce courts on the Louis Colon Amvets property at 659 Brayton Avenue
• Vote to approve a contract with Real Time Networks, Inc. for purchase and installation of access‑management lockers at the Somerset Police Department
• Discussion of litigation strategy concerning Brayton Point LLC (1 Brayton Point Road)

The Board entered executive session and waived reading of the October 16, 2025 minutes. It approved several actions, including authorizing the Town Administrator to sign a legal services agreement with Harrington Heep LLP, appointing that firm as Special Council, and approving a contract with JAM Corporation to replace the bocce courts at 659 Brayton Avenue. The Board also accepted donations for the Meals that Matter fund and adjourned the meeting.

• Entered executive session (2-0)
• Waived reading of October 16, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign legal services agreement with Harrington Heep LLP (2-0)
• Appointed Harrington Heep LLP as Special Council (2-0)
• Approved contract with JAM Corporation to replace bocce courts at 659 Brayton Avenue (2-0)
• Accepted donations into Meals that Matter fund (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Admissions Sub-Committee will meet to review the minutes from September 9, 2025. The body will discuss and potentially vote on revisions to the admissions policy.

• Discussion and possible revision of Admissions Policy

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The LPN Sub-Committee will meet to review an update on the LPN Program. The board may vote on the relocation of the program.

• Approval of October 9, 2025 minutes
• LPN Program update
• Potential vote on relocation of LPN Program

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Greater Fall River Vocational School District Committee will discuss school improvement and curriculum plans. The board is deciding on MSBA building project expenditures, technology purchase orders, and various staff appointments and resignations.

• Vote on MSBA Prime Contract Change Order (PCCO) No. 011 and technology POs for Hub Technical, ProAV Systems, and Harbor IT
• Personnel appointments including Supervisor of Building and Grounds and various instructors
• Vote on the establishment of a Christian Club and the Diman Food Science Course
• Discussion and approval of Policy #JFABG regarding Admission of Staff Children
• Vote on the surplus of three lathes via trade-in

Taunton River Stewardship Council

The council will receive updates on new delegate openings for Freetown and Berkley, and hear reports from various delegates and committees. Coordinator Gloria Bancroft will give an update on the Community Grants Program. The meeting will also allow time for any unanticipated issues and set the date for the next meeting.

• New delegate openings: Freetown and Berkley (Jackie Machamer)
• Delegate and committee updates from NPS, Commonwealth of MA, local councils, and partner organizations
• Coordinator update on the Community Grants Program
• Discussion of any issues not anticipated within 48 hours
• Scheduling of next TRSC meeting for January 8, 2025

Playground & Recreation Commission

The Playground & Recreation Commission will approve the minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting. It will review the status of several Community Preservation Act projects, including a playground at Pottersville, athletic lights at O’Neill, and a splash pad at Pierce Beach. The commission will also receive updates on other recreation facilities and consider holiday event plans such as Letters to Santa and the Holly Jolly Trolley. Citizen input will be invited before the meeting adjourns.

• Approve minutes of the October 15, 2025 meeting
• Discuss Playground at Pottersville (CPA project)
• Discuss Athletic Lights at O’Neill (CPA project)
• Discuss Splash Pad at Pierce Beach (CPA project)
• Review holiday event plans (Letters to Santa, Holly Jolly Trolley)

The commission approved the minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting. It also approved Chief Tedford's proposal for a playground at the South Complex in Pottersville. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved October 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Approved Pottersville playground proposal (unanimous vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)

Board of Assessors

The meeting scheduled for November 12, 2025, was cancelled. The provided agenda is procedural boilerplate.

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Joint Transportation Planning Group will receive an update on the FY2027‑2031 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) development. Members will hear presentations on two intersection improvement projects in Taunton: the Winthrop Street (Route 44) and Highland Street improvements programmed for FY 2030, and the Winter Street and School Street improvements that are not yet programmed. The meeting also includes approval of the October 8, 2025 minutes, a regional transit authorities report, and a community‑of‑practice discussion.

• Approval of minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting (roll‑call vote required)
• Public comments period for attendees to address the JTPG
• Regional Transit Authorities (RTA) report and updates
• FFY2027‑2031 TIP development update
• Presentation on Taunton intersection projects: Winthrop St (Route 44) & Highland St (programmed FY 2030) and Winter St & School St (not programmed)

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional High School Advisory Council will meet on November 12, 2025 at 6:00 pm via Zoom. The agenda lists a discussion on competency determination and a second item labeled “Other.” No further details or decisions are provided in the agenda.

• Competency Determination – topic to be discussed
• Other – unspecified agenda item

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The committee will approve the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting and receive updates on construction projects from Colliers, Kaestle Boos, and Suffolk Construction. It will then discuss and recommend approval of prime contract change orders (PCCO No. 011 and No. 011.1) and several technology purchase orders for the high school, including an IT hub, instructional AV system, and telephone system.

• Approval of October 6, 2025 minutes
• Project updates from Colliers, Kaestle Boos, and Suffolk Construction
• Discussion and approval of Prime Contract Change Order No. 011 and No. 011.1
• Recommendation to approve IT HUB-1 purchase order
• Recommendation to approve AV_PAV-1 and TEL_HAR-1 purchase orders

Housing Authority

The Somerset Housing Authority will meet to discuss and vote on a new no-smoking policy. The board will also consider a contract for tree removal and review the October 2025 warrant.

• Vote to create a No-Smoking policy
• Vote to hire A. Levesque’s Tree Care for $3,100.00 to remove seven cherry and four locust trees
• Approval of October 2025 warrant
• Community Preservation Committee update

The board approved the minutes from the October 9, 2025 meeting and accepted the October warrant. It hired A. Levesques Tree Care to remove seven cherry trees and four locust trees for $3,100. The board adopted a No Smoking Policy and amended it to allow the authority to install smoke‑detector devices at its discretion. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved October 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted October 2025 warrant (unanimous)
• Accepted Report of the Director (unanimous)
• Hired A. Levesques Tree Care to remove seven cherry trees and four locust trees for $3,100 (unanimous)
• Adopted No Smoking Policy (unanimous)
• Amended No Smoking Policy to permit installation of smoke detectors (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Somerset Historical Commission will review Paul Healey's research on the Anthony Cemetery and decide whether it should be one of five cemeteries receiving signage funded by a CPA grant. Commissioners will choose the color, size, and information for the first grant sign and consider applying for an additional CPA grant for more cemetery signage. The board will also discuss plans to digitize historic documents such as the Book of Records and Diane Goodwin’s cemetery binder. Minutes and the Treasurer’s Report for September 2025 will be reviewed and voted on for approval.

• Review Paul Healey’s research on Anthony Cemetery and decide on signage inclusion under CPA grant
• Decide color, size, and content for the first CPA grant sign; determine need for meeting with Jarid of Graphic Signs
• Consider applying for another CPA grant to continue signage for historic town cemeteries
• Discuss strategies to digitize and provide online access to historic documents (Book of Records, cemetery binder, SPL website)
• Review and vote to approve 9/4/2025 minutes and September 2025 Treasurer’s Report

The Somerset Historical Commission voted unanimously to write letters of support for two preservation initiatives and to pursue Community Preservation Act funding for cemetery signage. It also adopted new procedures for reviewing research reports and set the schedule for upcoming meetings.

• Approved letter of support for Friends for Somerset Historic Preservation grant application (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Sowams Heritage Area National Heritage Area feasibility study (unanimous)
• Approved signage for Anthony Cemetery through the Community Preservation Act grant (unanimous)
• Approved application for Community Preservation Eligibility and CPA funds for 2026 (unanimous)
• Adopted process to pre‑read Dr. Healey’s reports and have him summarize at meetings (unanimous)
• Approved September 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Set next meeting dates: Dec 4 2025, skip Jan, Feb 5 2026 (unanimous)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will discuss terminating a contract with Weston & Sampson Services Inc. for wastewater treatment plant operations. Members will also review water treatment plant pilot study options and a water application for 3172 County Street.

• Proposed termination of contract with Weston & Sampson Services Inc. for Temporary Contract Operations Services for Somerset Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Review of Water Treatment Plant Pilot Study options
• Water application for 3172 County Street, Dighton, MA
• Update on Water and Sewer Rate Study
• Executive session to discuss real property at 3256 County Street, Somerset, MA

The Board waived the reading of the September 24, 2025 minutes and tabled the October 8 and October 224 minutes. It voted to terminate the contract with Weston & Sampson Services, Inc. for temporary operations at the wastewater treatment plant. The Board also approved a new water application for 3172 County Street, Dighton, and entered executive session to discuss property at 3256 County Street.

• Waived reading of September 24, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Tabled minutes of October 8 and October 224, 2025 (all in favor)
• Terminated Weston & Sampson Services contract (all in favor)
• Approved new water application for 3172 County Street, Dighton (all in favor)
• Entered executive session to discuss 3256 County Street property (all in favor)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee will consider resolutions from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees and vote on several policy amendments. The meeting includes updates on redistricting and the Middle School Building Committee, as well as staff appointments and resignations.

• MASC Resolutions: Removing Body Mass (BMI) Testing From Schools and other reauthorizations
• Policy votes: Access to Buildings and Grounds, Student Fundraising, and School Visitor Policy
• New Policy: Parent Advisory Councils (KBG) and Middle School Pathway Exploration (IHBB)
• Staff appointments: Madison Gomes, Karen Burks, Michelle Rego, Elizabeth Dourado, Samantha Semple, Brianna Wehner, Kristen McAvoy, and Eden Zaleski
• Review of October Financial Statement

The committee unanimously approved the second readings of several school policies, including Access to Building and Grounds, Gifts to and Solicitations by Staff, Student Fundraising Activities, Athletic Concussion, Relations with Parent/Booster Organizations, School Visitor, and Public Participation at School Committee Meetings, and waived the first reading of a new Parent Advisory Councils policy. It also unanimously authorized its delegate to discuss removing BMI testing, reauthorized previously approved resolutions, appointed Ms. Courville as the alternate voting delegate, and approved the prior meeting minutes before adjourning 5‑0.

• Adopted citation for retiring teacher Cara Hargraves (unanimous)
• Authorized delegate to discuss removal of BMI testing (unanimous)
• Reauthorized previously approved resolutions and gave delegate discretion (unanimous)
• Approved second readings of multiple policies and waived first reading of Parent Advisory Councils (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of Middle School Pathway Exploration policy (unanimous)
• Appointed Ms. Courville as alternate voting delegate (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 14, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee Redistricting Committee will discuss a complaint regarding the failure of subcommittee members to obtain required Open Meeting Law materials. The body will also appoint point persons for five redistricting focus groups and review committee minutes.

• Open Meeting Law complaint filed September 27, 2025 by Patrick Higgins and Associates
• Appointment of focus groups for Special Education, Transportation and Facilities, Impact on Students and Families, Educational Impact, and Fiscal Impact and Staffing
• Acceptance of July 14, 2025 Redistricting Screening Committee minutes
• Acceptance of September 9, 2025 minutes
• Acceptance of October 14, 2025 minutes

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset Middle School Building Committee will receive reports from the owner’s project manager, the architects, and the HVAC/electrical and athletic field teams. The committee will consider and vote on construction change orders. The committee will consider and vote on owner contingency expenditures. The meeting will also approve the October 6, 2025 minutes, set future meeting dates, and allow public input.

• Owner’s Project Manager Report
• Architect’s Update (Ai3 Architects)
• HVAC and Electrical Updates
• Athletic Field Construction and General Lawn Updates
• Review and Approval of Construction Change Orders

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen approved a Water Service Agreement with the Swansea Water District for Pamela A. Campos at 160 Miller ’s Lane. They also approved a Common Victualler License for TNT Grille LLC and appointed Caroline Charest to the Cultural Council by a 2‑1 vote. The board waived reading of the October 1, 2025 minutes and entered executive session unanimously. Discussions on Special Town Meeting dates and warrant articles were held but no final actions were taken.

• Approved Water Service Agreement for 160 Miller ’s Lane (3-0)
• Approved Common Victualler License for TNT Grille LLC (3-0)
• Appointed Caroline Charest to Cultural Council term ending June 30, 2031 (2-1)
• Waived reading of October 1, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss litigation strategy (3-0)

Veterans Advisory Board

The Veterans Advisory Board will review updates on the World War II memorial brick project, including removal of an existing structure on October 27 and drone-assisted grid planning. It will discuss fundraising efforts such as Home Town Hero banners and a donation from Horner Millwork Car show. The board will coordinate veteran outreach events and provide an update on the Veteran Appreciation Cookout scheduled for July 20, 2025. New business includes planning Veterans Day activities: a breakfast, a hometown banner, a VFW chowder fest, and a coffee hour.

• WWII memorial brick list update and October 27 removal schedule
• Drone-assisted grid template creation for brick placement on Oct 26
• Fundraising updates: Home Town Hero banners and Horner Millwork Car show donation
• Veteran outreach coordination and upcoming event list
• Veterans Day planning: breakfast, hometown banner, VFW chowder fest, coffee hour

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is scheduled to meet to review a commitment for a property at 3280 County Street and a scenario worksheet for a classification hearing. The meeting is open to the public.

• Review commitment for Real Estate Commitment Pro Forma (3280 County Street)
• Review Scenario Worksheet for Classification Hearing
• Schedule next meeting

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee Other Post Employee Benefits (OPEB) Trust Subcommittee will meet virtually to discuss investment updates and board expansion. The meeting is scheduled for October 29, 2025, at 4:00 pm.

• Investment update from MA PRIM Senior Client Services Officer
• Discussion on expansion of Board of Trustees
• Approval of August 25, 2025 Open Session Minutes

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Sick Leave Bank Board will hold a regular meeting on October 28, 2025. The board will approve the minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting, hold an executive session to discuss the reputation, character, physical condition or mental health of William Harris, and consider a sick bank request that may require a vote.

• Approval of October 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Executive session to discuss William Harris under M.G.L. c.30A §21(a)
• Discussion and possible vote on a sick bank request

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Somerset Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on three variance petitions: a side‑yard setback for an ADU at 7 Halsey Ave, a front‑yard setback for porch reconstruction at 201 Macarthur Ave, and a planned development with a variance for a 6,080 sf indoor storage facility at 1258 Wilbur Ave. The board will also review and approve invoices and the minutes from the September 25 meeting. Additional business items may be discussed before adjournment.

• Variance for side‑yard setback at 7 Halsey Ave to permit an accessory dwelling unit (Residence District)
• Planned Development and variance for a 6,080 sf indoor storage facility at 1258 Wilbur Ave (Business District)
• Variance for front‑yard setback at 201 Macarthur Ave to allow porch reconstruction (Residence District)
• Review and approval of invoices
• Review and approval of September 25, 2025 meeting minutes

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will discuss personnel appointments and multiple service agreements for water and sewer facility maintenance. The board is also reviewing Special Articles for Town Meeting and a water and sewer rate study update.

• Appointment of Antonio Neves as Plant Manager and Chief Operator
• Contract extension for Weston & Sampson Services Inc. for Wastewater Treatment Plant operations
• Wright-Pierce Task Order 35 for Water Treatment Plant Clarifier and Filter Unit Rehabilitation
• Wright-Pierce Task Order 18A for Hot & Cold Lane High Service Pump Station and Water Main services
• Commercial Gas Service Agreement with Liberty Utilities for 242 Hot and Cold Lane

The Board approved several contracts and financial actions, including a $125,000 task order to rehabilitate the water‑treatment plant clarifier and filter units and a $62,330 order for the booster pump station foundation. They also appointed Antonio Neves as Plant Manager, extended the temporary operations contract for November, and approved special articles to move $800,000 and $1.5 million from retained earnings. A one‑time $1,139.05 abatement was granted to a resident, and the Board voted to abate water and sewer liens on 3280 County Street to enable its sale.

• Waived reading of September 17, 2025 meeting (all in favor)
• Tabled minutes of September 24 and October 8, 2025 meetings (all in favor)
• Approved one‑time $1,139.05 abatement for Joseph Pacheco (all in favor)
• Approved appointment of Antonio Neves as Plant Manager/Chief Operator (all in favor)
• Extended contract with Weston & Sampson Services Inc. for November (all in favor)
• Signed Wright‑Pierce Task Order No.35 for clarifier/filter rehab, $125,000 (all in favor)
• Approved Wright‑Pierce Task Order No.18 for booster pump station foundation, $62,330 (all in favor)
• Abated all water and sewer liens on 3280 County Street to allow property sale (all in favor)

Council on Aging

The Somerset Council on Aging will hold its regular meeting on October 22 at 9:30 a.m. The agenda includes a roll call, recording notice, pledge of allegiance, financial reports, old business, new business, and a citizen input period. No specific proposals, contracts, or votes are noted in the agenda.

• Open meeting roll call
• Financial reports
• Old business discussion
• New business discussion
• Citizen input session

Trustees of the Public Library

The Somerset Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the Director's September report and determine which library policies require updates. The board will also vote on closing the library at 4 p.m. on November 26, 2025.

• Vote on closing the library at 4 p.m. on November 26, 2025
• Review and vote on Director’s Monthly Report for September 2025
• Review of library policies for necessary updates based on revision dates
• Update on Digital Navigator position
• Update on Friends of the Library 40th Anniversary

The board approved the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting. It accepted the September Director’s Report, confirming compliance with state aid requirements and noting new staff computers and program updates. Trustees voted to close the library at 4 PM on Wednesday, November 26, the day before Thanksgiving.

• Approved September 16, 2025 minutes (vote: Dionne, Dyl, Foley, Marcotte, Ponte)
• Approved Director’s September report (vote: Dionne, Dyl, Foley, Marcotte, Ponte)
• Approved closing library at 4 PM on Nov 26 (vote: Dionne, Dyl, Foley, Marcotte, Ponte)

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Southeastern Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization is meeting to discuss regional transit and safety plans. The body will vote on funding adjustments for road improvements and shuttle services, as well as updates to public participation and language assistance plans.

• Draft Regional Evacuation Route Plan for endorsement
• Route 6 corridor improvements in Dartmouth from Faunce Corner Road to Hathaway Road
• New Bedford SS4A demonstration projects funding category change
• Funding for Mansfield to Logan Shuttle Bus (Blue Apple Bus) Year 4
• New Bedford intersection improvements at Mount Pleasant Street and Nash Road

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will review updates on downtown beautification, vacant business locations, and regional planning. The meeting includes a presentation by Steve Nasiff and Elizabeth Paskowski and a notice regarding a Special Town Meeting on November 22.

• Slades Ferry Zoning Open House scheduled for November 12
• Special Town Meeting scheduled for November 22 at 10:00AM
• Route 103/Wilbur Avenue Project update
• Brightman Bridge Overlook / Fishing Pier update
• Downtown Beautification Program status update

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee meeting on Oct 21, 2025 will discuss the superintendent’s goals for the 2026‑2027 school year, review a proposed central office model for administration and support staff, and set the date for future meetings. No formal decisions are indicated; the items are for discussion.

• Discuss Superintendent’s Goals for 2026‑2027
• Review Central Office Model for administration and support staff
• Set date for next meeting(s)

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee will consider and act on several Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) resolutions, including removal of body‑mass‑index testing, reauthorizing sanctuary‑law protections for transgender students, and increasing the maximum balance of the Special Education Reserve Fund. The committee will also discuss the hourly rate for non‑union hallway monitors and provide updates on the 2024‑2025 and 2025‑2026 budgets. Additional agenda items include policy amendments and collaborative reports.

• Consider removal of BMI testing from schools (MASC resolution)
• Reauthorize sanctuary‑law protections for transgender students (MASC resolution)
• Increase maximum balance allowed by the Special Education Reserve Fund (MASC resolution)
• Discuss and act on non‑union personnel hourly rate for hallway monitors
• Amend policies: Access to Buildings & Grounds, Gifts to staff, Student Fundraising, Athletic Concussion, Relations with Parent/Booster Organizations, and add Parent Advisory Councils

The committee voted unanimously to raise hallway monitors’ hourly wage retroactive to Sept. 17, 2025. It also approved the first reading of several policy amendments, accepted the September 16 minutes, and adjourned the meeting. A motion to appoint a voting delegate for the MASS/MASC conference was tabled. No public comments were received.

• Approved hourly rate increase for hallway monitors retroactive to Sept 17 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved first reading of multiple policy amendments (Access to Buildings and Grounds, Gifts to and Solicitation by Staff, Student Fundraising Activities, Athletic Concussion Policy, Relations with Parent/Booster Organizations, Parent Advisory Groups, School Visitor Policy) (5‑0)
• Approved open‑session minutes of Sept 16 2025 (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)
• Tabled appointment of a voting delegate for the annual MASS/MASC Joint Conference resolutions

Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee

The Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee will receive updates on HMCC programs, finances, and state guidance. Members will review the Emergency Response Framework tabletop exercise conducted on October 15, 2025, and identify two training needs. The meeting will also cover a WebEOC Qi drill review, inventory process, and a Local State Advisory Committee update.

• Review of WebEOC Qi drill
• Emergency Response Framework tabletop exercise held Oct 15, 2025
• Identification of two training needs
• Budget updates from HMCC Financial Manager
• Local State Advisory Committee (LSAC) update

Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee

The Executive Committee will review the Budget Period 2 priorities and deliverables. Members will discuss training selections and receive updates on the Inventory Project and the Emergency Response Framework Tabletop Exercise held on October 15, 2025.

• Review of Budget Period (BP) 2 priorities and deliverables
• Discussion on BP2 Training selections
• Update on the Inventory Project
• Review of the Emergency Response Framework Tabletop Exercise held 10.15.25
• Review and revisions of Principles of Operation

Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee

The Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Executive Committee will approve the previous meeting minutes and review coalition attendance. Members will discuss revisions to the Principles of Operation, updates from the Local State Advisory Committee, and the Emergency Response Framework Tabletop Exercise conducted by Crawford & Associates on 10/15/25. The agenda also includes a review of Budget Period 2 priorities, training selections, and inventory project updates, followed by updates from the Health & Medical Coordinating Coalition and the state health department.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Review and revisions of Principles of Operation
• Review of Emergency Response Framework Tabletop Exercise (Crawford & Associates, 10/15/25)
• Budget Period 2 priorities, deliverables, and training selections
• Upcoming HMCC stakeholder meeting on Nov 7, 2025 at Middleborough Town Hall

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider several proposed warrant articles for a Special Town Meeting, including funding for prior year invoices and building repairs. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding a National Grid pole installation.

• Public hearing on National Grid petition to install one pole on the south edge of Owen Avenue
• Proposed Special Town Meeting Article 1 for prior year invoices totaling $6,517.00
• Proposed Special Town Meeting Article 3 for building repairs and ADA equipment totaling $100,000.00
• Common Victualler License application for Bajas Fresh Grill at 899 Grand Army Highway
• Proposed home rule petition change for wine and malt beverage licensing at 2756 County Street

The Selectmen entered executive session and approved the September 17, 2025 executive‑session minutes. They waived the reading of the September 17 minutes, appointed Kimberly Ferreira to the Cultural Council, and approved a Common Victualler License for Bajas Fresh Grill. The board also approved National Grid's petition to install one S0 pole on Owen Avenue, changed the home‑rule petition for a wine and malt license at 2756 County Street, granted a 3% salary increase and $2,500 annuity for Town Administrator Mark Ullucci, and accepted a donated 8×12 American flag.

• Approved executive‑session minutes of Sep 17, 2025 (3‑0)
• Waived reading of Sep 17, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Appointed Kimberly Ferreira to Cultural Council (term to Jun 30, 2031) (3‑0)
• Approved Common Victualler License for Bajas Fresh Grill, pending admin review (3‑0)
• Approved National Grid petition to install 1 S0 pole on south edge of Owen Avenue near 1140 Riverside Avenue (3‑0)
• Approved changes to home‑rule petition for wine & malt license at 2756 County Street (3‑0)
• Approved 3% salary increase and $2,500 annuity for Town Administrator Mark Ullucci (3‑0)
• Accepted donation of 8×12 American flag from Paul Cadieux (3‑0)

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Sick Leave Bank Board will meet on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. in the District Office Conference Room, 251 Stonehaven Road, Fall River. The agenda includes approval of the June 18, 2025 meeting minutes, an executive session under M.G.L. c.30A to discuss the reputation, character, physical condition or mental health of Sarah Sprague, and discussion and approval of sick leave bank requests.

• Approval of June 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Executive session to discuss Sarah Sprague per M.G.L. c.30A, §21(a)
• Discussion and approval of sick leave bank requests

Playground & Recreation Commission

The Playground & Recreation Commission will receive updates on town facilities and programs, review the status of existing Community Preservation Act projects and consider new CPA proposals, and hear about upcoming community events such as the Soap Box Race, the Somerset Annual Fall Extravaganza, and several holiday workshops and outings.

• Status of Community Preservation Act (C.P.A.) projects
• New Community Preservation Act (C.P.A.) projects
• Update on Soap Box Race
• Update on Somerset Annual Fall Extravaganza (S.A.F.E)
• Upcoming events: Gingerbread House Workshop (Dec 6), Holly Jolly Trolley (Dec 6), New York City Trip (Dec 13)

The Playground & Recreation Commission approved support for the Somerset Baseball League’s South Complex Upper Field renovation as a Community Preservation Act project. It also approved support for the South Complex Big Field renovation under the same program. Both motions passed with four members voting aye and one member (Darlington) abstaining. The board additionally approved the September 17 minutes for Town Offices and the Library Community Room and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved support for South Complex Upper Field renovation (C.P.A.) – 4 ayes, 1 abstain
• Approved support for South Complex Big Field renovation (C.P.A.) – 4 ayes, 1 abstain
• Approved September 17, 2025 Town Offices minutes – unanimous aye
• Approved September 17, 2025 Library Community Room minutes – unanimous aye
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed – unanimous aye

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee will discuss articles for a Special Town Meeting and act on several school policies. The body is also reviewing staff appointments, budget updates for FY25 and FY26, and the annual 8th grade trip to Washington, D.C.

• Articles for Special Town Meeting regarding MSBA funding for North Elementary replacement windows, traffic signals, and Capital Revolving Fund replenishment
• Approval of annual Grade 8 trip to Washington, D.C.
• Approval of revolving funds for South Fence
• Staff appointments including a Speech & Language Pathologist and various paraprofessionals and food service workers
• First reading of policy amendments for building access, student fundraising, and athletic concussion policy

The committee unanimously approved the annual Grade 8 Washington, D.C. trip and a $9,884.22 fence project. It also voted to request three articles for the upcoming Special Town Meeting—MSBA funding for a North Elementary window replacement, traffic signals, and payment of a prior invoice—while tabling the capital revolving fund replenishment. Additional actions included appointing a MASC voting delegate and alternate, and approving several policy first‑readings and meeting minutes.

• Approved annual Grade 8 Washington, D.C. trip (unanimous)
• Approved $9,884.22 fence from revolving account (unanimous)
• Requested three Special Town Meeting articles: MSBA window funding, traffic signals, prior invoice payment (unanimous)
• Appointed Ms. Ashley as MASC voting delegate and Mr. Gaw as alternate (unanimous)
• Approved draft BEDH Public Participation policy first reading (unanimous)
• Approved first readings of multiple policies (Access to Building and Grounds, Gifts to and Solicitations by Staff, Student Fundraising Activities, Athletic Concussion Policy, Relations with Parent/Booster Organizations, Parent Advisory Groups, School Visitor Policy) (unanimous)
• Approved open session minutes of September 9, 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved executive session minutes of August 12, 2025 with redactions (5‑0)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee will hear public input, elect a chair and vice chair, and discuss organizational options for future research. It will also consider the formation of working groups and outline next steps for the committee's work.

• Public input session
• Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion of organizational options for future research
• Consideration of working groups and members
• Planning next steps

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to conduct an executive session. The board will discuss litigation strategy regarding Brayton Point LLC and review a request for the release of 2025 executive session minutes.

• Litigation strategy regarding Brayton Point LLC (1 Brayton Point Road)
• Review and potential release of 2025 Executive Session Meeting Minutes requested by Patrick Higgins

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Greater Fall River Vocational School Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss the MSBA school building project, including amendments to the Project Funding Agreement and the Project Debt Schedule. The agenda also includes votes on personnel appointments, policy approvals, and the acceptance of gifts.

• MSBA Project Funding Agreement Second Amendment
• MSBA Project Debt Schedule Update
• Discussion and Approval of Kaestle Boos, Inc. Amendments
• Personnel appointments and resignations
• Policy Sub-Committee Report

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Diman Housebuilding/Facilities Subcommittee will meet on Oct. 9, 2025 to approve the September 11, 2025 minutes and receive updates on community projects and the 2025‑26 housebuilding project. No formal actions or votes are listed beyond the routine approvals.

• Approval of September 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Community Projects Update
• 2025‑26 Housebuilding Project Update

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The LPN Sub-Committee will meet to review the LPN Program. The discussion will focus on a program financial analysis and a building lease.

• Approval of December 12, 2024 minutes
• LPN Program financial analysis
• LPN Program building lease

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Policy Sub-Committee will meet to discuss and potentially vote on the approval of eight specific district policies. These policies cover areas ranging from building access to student fundraising.

• Policy ECAB: Access to Building and Grounds
• Policy EFBA: School Food and Nutrition — Meal Modifications
• Policy GBEBC: Gifts to and Solicitations by Staff
• Policy JFABG: Admission of Staff Children
• Policy JJE: Student Fundraising Activities

Housing Authority

The Somerset Housing Authority will discuss and vote on establishing a no-smoking policy and contracting Metropolitan for phone service. The board will also address the designation of the agency's signatory and authorized officer.

• Vote to create a No-Smoking policy
• Vote to contract Metropolitan for phone service
• Vote acknowledging the Signatory, Chairman, and Authorized officer
• Discussion on fire hydrants at John F. Kennedy Terrace
• Approval of the September 2025 warrant

The board unanimously confirmed Lynn Berube as signatory, Matthew Aspden as chairman, and Nancy Ludwig as authorized officer. It also unanimously approved a contract with Metropolitan Telephone to provide phone service for the housing authority. Earlier motions to accept prior minutes, the August warrant, and the director’s report all passed unanimously. No vote was taken on the proposed no‑smoking policy.

• Confirmed Lynn Berube as Signatory, Matthew Aspden as Chairman, Nancy Ludwig as Authorized Officer (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Metropolitan Telephone for phone service (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the September 19, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved warrant for August 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved report of the Director (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will meet to discuss personnel appointments and a sewer connection application. The board will also review reports from the Superintendent and Wright-Pierce.

• Appointment of Mark Carvalho as Laborer at the Water Department
• Abatement for Jennifer Tripp of 98 O’Neil Road
• New sewer application for 75 Captains Way
• Update on Water and Sewer Rate Study

The Board approved the September 10 meeting minutes and tabled the September 17 and 24 minutes. It appointed Mark Carvalho as a Water Department laborer and approved a one‑time sewer abatement for Jennifer Tripp ($149.38). The Board also extended the Weston and Sampson Contracting services contract at the Sewer Department by 30 days and approved a sewer application for 75 Captains Way.

• Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled September 17 & 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Mark Carvalho as Water Department laborer (unanimous)
• Approved one‑time sewer abatement for Jennifer Tripp, $149.38 (unanimous)
• Approved sewer application for 75 Captains Way (motion made and seconded; outcome not recorded)
• Extended Weston and Sampson Contracting services contract at Sewer Department by 30 days (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:03 PM (unanimous)

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Joint Transportation Planning Group will meet to approve minutes from September and vote on recommending two draft plans to the Southeastern Metropolitan Planning Organization for a 45-day public comment period. The agenda also includes a presentation on a transit-accessible park map and a discussion on regional transit authorities.

• Approval of September 10, 2025 minutes
• Vote to recommend Draft SMMPO Public Participation Plan
• Vote to recommend Draft SMMPO Language Assistance Plan
• Presentation on Interactive Transit-Accessible Park Finder Map
• Community of Practice discussion on transit projects

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional High School Advisory Council will meet to discuss the opening of school. The body will also review School Improvement Plan Goals and Competency Determination.

• School Improvement Plan Goals
• Competency Determination
• Opening of School

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The MSBA School Building Committee will meet to receive project updates from Colliers, Kaestle Boos, and Suffolk Construction. The committee will discuss and potentially vote on designer amendments and prime contract change orders.

• Amendment 8: Additional Reimbursable Services
• Amendment 9: Gym Equipment and Flooring Finish Revisions (zero cost)
• Prime Contract Change Order No. 010
• Prime Contract Change Order No. 010.1 (Internal Change Order)
• PCO 471: Moisture Mitigation for Flooring Using Ardex, MC Rapid and Laticrete

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset Middle School Building Committee will meet to receive reports from the project manager and architects. The committee will discuss HVAC, electrical, and athletic field updates. Members will review and approve construction change orders and owner contingency expenditures.

• Review and approval of construction change orders
• Review and approval of owner contingency expenditures
• HVAC and electrical updates
• Athletic field construction and general lawn updates
• Project warranty update

Historical Commission

The Somerset Historical Commission will review research on the Anthony Cemetery to determine if it will receive signage via a CPA grant. Members will discuss the design of the first grant-funded sign and the possibility of applying for additional CPA grants. The board will also discuss strategies for digitizing historic documents for online access.

• Review of Anthony Cemetery research for CPA grant signage eligibility
• Determination of color, size, and content for the first CPA grant sign
• Discussion on applying for another CPA grant for Historic Town Cemeteries signage
• Strategies for digitizing the Book of Records and Diane Goodwin’s cemetery binder
• Update on Quaker Meeting House grounds and cemetery

Board of Selectmen

The Somerset Board of Selectmen will consider several actions, including waiving the reading of the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes. They will review an Open Meeting Law complaint from Patrick Higgins dated September 21, 2025. The board will discuss votes on Old Town Hall maintenance, changing meeting days, and a speed limit on Riverside Avenue. A key decision will be setting the date for a Special Town Meeting and the deadline for citizen petition articles.

• Waive reading of September 10, 2025 meeting minutes and approve as circulated
• Acknowledge and review Open Meeting Law complaint from Patrick Higgins (Sept 21, 2025)
• Vote on maintenance and event coordination for Old Town Hall
• Set date for Special Town Meeting and deadline for Citizens Petition Articles
• Consider speed limit change on Riverside Avenue

The Board of Selectmen voted 3‑0 to let Town Administrator Mark Ullucci finalize the sale of 3280 County Street. They also approved moving Board meetings to Thursdays, setting the citizen‑petition deadline for the Special Town Meeting (Oct. 15, 2025), and returning maintenance and event coordination of the Old Town Hall to the Board. Additional actions included waiving the reading of the September 10, 2025 minutes and adjourning the meeting at 7:07 p.m.

• Approved Town Administrator to finalize sale of 3280 County Street (3-0)
• Moved Board of Selectmen meetings to Thursday effective immediately (3-0)
• Set citizen‑petition article deadline for Special Town Meeting to Oct. 15, 2025 at noon (3-0)
• Returned maintenance and event coordination of Old Town Hall to the Board (3-0)
• Waived reading of September 10, 2025 Board minutes and approved them as circulated (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:07 p.m. (3-0)

Cultural Council

The Somerset Cultural Council will vote to waive the reading of the June 30, 2025 meeting minutes and approve the treasurer’s report on grant payments and current balances. It will also discuss election and appointment dates, receive a subcommittee report on council‑sponsored activities, and allow public comments.

• Waive reading of June 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approve treasurer’s report on grant payments and balances
• Discuss election and appointment dates
• Subcommittee report on council‑sponsored activities
• Public comment period

The council voted to waive the reading of the June 30 secretary’s report, with the motion passing after a second and one member abstaining. A motion to accept the treasurer’s report also passed. Discussion on recruiting new members and election appointments was tabled until spring. The council agreed to use the existing grant funding for the postponed genealogy program without requiring a new application.

• Waived reading of June 30 secretary’s report (motion passed; Shannon abstained)
• Accepted treasurer’s report (motion passed)
• Tabled discussion on election/appointments until spring
• Approved use of existing grant funds for genealogy program; no re‑application needed
• Motion to adjourn the meeting (passed)

Planning Board

The Somerset Planning Board will discuss an informal prospective subdivision at 544 Elm Street, Lot 35. It will continue its recommendation on a Planned Development Permit for a 6,080 square‑foot indoor storage facility with parking at 1320 Wilbur Avenue in the Business Zoning District. The board will also consider the Town Planner update and vote on the minutes from the August 26 meeting.

• Informal discussion of prospective definitive subdivision at 544 Elm Street, Assessor’s Map E-3, Lot 35
• Planned Development recommendation for a 6,080 sf indoor storage facility with parking at 1320 Wilbur Avenue, Business Zoning District
• Vote on minutes of the 8/26/25 meeting
• Town Planner update (if any)
• Next meeting scheduled for later in 2025

The Board voted unanimously to recommend a Planned Development Permit for SAMARJJ LLC’s proposed 6,080‑square‑foot indoor storage facility at 1320 Wilbur Avenue in the Business‑Zoning District, subject to ten conditions listed by the Town Planner. The motion was approved with all five members voting aye. The Board also approved the minutes from the August 26 meeting and adjourned to the next meeting on October 28, each by unanimous vote. An informal discussion was held on a prospective subdivision at 544 Elm Street, but no vote was taken.

• Approved Planned Development Permit for SAMARJJ LLC indoor storage (unanimous)
• Approved August 26, 2025 Planning Board minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting to October 28, 2025 (unanimous)
• Held informal discussion on subdivision at 544 Elm Street (no vote)
• Received public request to recommend exclusion of 294 Slades Ferry Blvd from overlay (no decision)
• Noted request to add rezoning Light Industry discussion to next agenda (no decision)

Somerset Health Plan Group

The Somerset Health Plan Group Board will meet on September 30, 2025. The board will discuss and possibly vote to approve the minutes from the June 26, 2025 meeting, review the financial monitoring report through August 2025, and consider the results of the 2026 Medicare RFP and a renewal approval. An open session will allow topics not submitted at least 48 hours in advance.

• Possible vote to approve minutes of the June 26, 2025 meeting
• Review of the Financial Monitoring Report through August 2025
• Consideration of 2026 Medicare RFP results and possible renewal approval
• Open session for topics not reasonably anticipated 48 hours in advance

Conservation Commission

The Somerset Conservation Commission will continue a technical review by ROUX Associates Inc. regarding a minor modification request. This request concerns changes to work previously proposed by Brayton Point LLC under DEP File Number 070-0546.

• Technical review by ROUX Associates Inc. for Brayton Point LLC (DEP File Number 070-0546)

Veterans Advisory Board

The Veterans Advisory Board is meeting to coordinate updates on the WW2 Memorial and plan for upcoming events. The board is discussing the removal of an existing structure and the creation of a brick grid template. Discussions include fundraising, outreach to local groups, and Veterans Day preparations.

• WW2 Memorial: Ludlow scheduled to remove existing structure on October 27
• WW2 Memorial: Drone assistance for brick grid template on September 26
• Veterans Day planning for breakfast at Venus
• Updates on Home Town Hero Banners
• Coordination for VFW chowder fest

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Somerset Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on September 25, 2025 to consider several petitions. Items include a variance to reduce side‑yard setback for an attached accessory dwelling unit at 7 Halsey Avenue, a planned development and special permit for a drive‑thru oil‑change facility at the northeast corner of Route 6 and Brayton Point Road, and a planned development and variance for a 6,080 sf indoor storage facility on the northeast side of Wilbur Avenue (continuance requested). The board will also address tree‑clearing proposals, review minutes from the August 28 meeting, and handle routine correspondence and invoices.

• Variance request for side‑yard setback to allow an attached ADU at 7 Halsey Ave (Residence District)
• Planned Development Permit and Special Permit for a drive‑thru oil‑change facility at the NE corner of Route 6 (GAR Highway) and Brayton Point Rd. (Business District)
• Planned Development and Variance for a 6,080 sf indoor storage facility on vacant land on the NE easterly side of Wilbur Ave (Business District) – continuance to October meeting requested
• Proposed additional tree clearing (~100 ft × 160 ft) on Washville (Assessor’s Map A9, Lot 226) – determination of minor/major status
• Review and approval of minutes from 8/28/25 and any correspondence/invoices

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee and Somerset School Committee Joint Policy Subcommittee will meet to discuss various district policies. The agenda focuses on student health, staff conduct, and school facility access.

• Life-Threatening Allergy Policy (JLC-1)
• Concussion Management Policy and Procedures (JJIF)
• Establishment of a Staff Travel Policy
• Gifts to and Solicitation by Staff (GBEBC)
• Access to Buildings and Grounds (ECAB)

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee Policy Subcommittee is meeting to discuss school property usage. This is the only substantive topic listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of School Property Usage

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee and Somerset School Committee Joint Policy Subcommittee will meet on September 25, 2025 via Zoom to consider a series of policy items. Items include a life‑threatening allergy policy, concussion management procedures, a staff travel policy, rules on gifts and solicitation by staff, and student fund‑raising activities. The agenda also lists topics on building access, visitor protocols, school food nutrition modifications, parent advisory groups, and approval of prior minutes. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Life‑Threatening Allergy Policy
• Concussion Management Policy and Procedures
• Establishment of a Staff Travel Policy
• Gifts to and Solicitation by Staff
• Student Fund‑Raising Activities

Board of Assessors

The Somerset Board of Assessors will enter an executive session under General Laws Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(7) to review pending Appellate Tax Board cases. The meeting will also include routine items such as calling the meeting to order, scheduling the next meeting, and adjourning. No other substantive matters are on the agenda.

• Executive session to review pending Appellate Tax Board cases
• Schedule next Board of Assessors meeting

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Somerset Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will consider waiving the reading of minutes from three September meetings and approve them. They will discuss appointing Sean Pires of 118 Carroll Street, New Bedford as Plant Manager and Chief Operator at the Water Pollution Control Facility. The board will receive a superintendent report, updates on the NPDES permit phase and the water and sewer rate study, and consider a new drainlayer license for WW Contracting Corp. An executive session will address collective‑bargaining strategy.

• Waive reading and approve minutes for September 2, 10, and 17, 2025 meetings
• Consider appointment of Sean Pires (118 Carroll St, New Bedford) as Plant Manager and Chief Operator
• Superintendent report presentation
• Update on Phase I of the NPDES permit for the Water Pollution Control Facility
• Consider approval of a new drainlayer license for WW Contracting Corp., 2 Wood St, Upton

The commissioners appointed Sean Pires as the Water Pollution Control Facility’s Plant Manager and Chief Operator. They approved a Drainlayer License for WW Contracting Corp. The board then entered executive session to discuss collective bargaining and litigation strategy.

• Appointed Sean Pires as Plant Manager and Chief Operator at the Water Pollution Control Facility
• Approved Drainlayer License for WW Contracting Corp (2 Wood Street, Upton)
• Entered executive session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee will review the superintendent’s goals for the 2026‑2027 school year. It will also examine the proposed Central Office Model for administration and support staff. Finally, the committee will set dates for upcoming meetings.

• Discuss Superintendent’s Goals 2026‑2027
• Discuss Central Office Model (Administration and Support Staff)
• Set date for next meeting(s)

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee Strategic Planning Subcommittee is meeting to review the 2021-2026 Strategic Plan. Members will also discuss the development of a new 2026-2031 Strategic Plan.

• Review of progress on 2021-2026 Strategic Plan
• Discussion on development of 2026-2031 Strategic Plan

Board of Assessors

The meeting scheduled for September 18, 2025, has been postponed to September 24, 2025. The original agenda included a potential executive session to review pending Appellate Tax Board cases.

• Postponement of meeting to September 24, 2025
• Proposed executive session regarding Appellate Tax Board cases

Housing Authority

The Somerset Housing Authority will vote to approve the completion of an American Rescue Plan Act project and consider hiring the Taunton Housing Authority for staff training. The board will also vote on a $500,000 grant application for security upgrades.

• Vote to approve Certificate of Substantial Completion for ARPA Project #273065
• Vote to approve $500,000 High Leverage Asset Grant for security upgrades
• Discussion on fire hydrants at John F. Kennedy Terrace
• Vote to hire Taunton Housing Authority for recertifications
• Vote to hire Taunton Housing Authority for paperless agency training

At the September 18, 2025 meeting, the Somerset Housing Authority unanimously approved a $500,000 High Leverage Asset Grant application earmarked for security upgrades. The board also approved certificates of substantial and final completion for Project #273065, a $100 per month contract for a monthly newsletter with Marissa Chappell, and a hire of the Taunton Housing Authority to assist with rent recertifications for neighboring authorities. All motions were passed with unanimous roll‑call votes.

• Approved $500,000 High Leverage Asset Grant for security (unanimous)
• Approved certificates of substantial and final completion for Project #273065 (unanimous)
• Approved $100 monthly contract with Marissa Chappell for a newsletter (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Taunton Housing Authority to assist with rent recertifications (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen will hold an executive session to discuss a property transaction for an underground pipe at 116 Walker Street and to approve prior executive session minutes. They will review the Town Administrator’s annual performance and consider appointments to fill vacancies on the Playground & Recreation and Conservation commissions. An update on Community Preservation Act projects will be given, and the board will vote to accept a $15,000 donation from the Estate of Charles Grocott for the Veterans’ Services Department.

• Consider purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property for Interconnection Underground Pipe at 116 Walker Street (executive session)
• Approve executive session minutes from September 10, 2025
• Conduct contract negotiations with non‑union personnel (Town Administrator Mark Ullucci)
• Discuss and act on appointment to fill Playground & Recreation Commission vacancy (candidate James Pereira)
• Accept $15,000 donation from the Estate of Charles Grocott for Veterans’ Services Department (Veterans Donation Account #29-3580-543)

The Selectmen waived the reading of the August 27, 2025 meeting minutes and approved it 3‑0. They appointed Jim Pereira as interim member of the Playground & Recreation Commission until April 13, 2026, and recessed that commission meeting, both unanimously. The Board accepted a $15,000 donation from the Estate of Charles Grocott for Veterans Services, approved 3‑0, and appointed Attorney Patrick McDonald to the Conservation Commission, approved 2‑1. The open session was adjourned and the board entered executive session, approved 3‑0.

• Waived reading of August 27, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Appointed Jim Pereira interim to Playground & Recreation Commission (unanimous)
• Recessed Playground & Recreation Commissioners meeting at 6:30 pm (unanimous)
• Accepted $15,000 donation from Estate of Charles Grocott for Veterans Services (3‑0)
• Appointed Attorney Patrick McDonald to Conservation Commission (2‑1)
• Adjourned open session and entered executive session (3‑0)
• Entered executive session to discuss underground pipe purchase (3‑0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Somerset Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will hold an open session roll‑call at 4:30 p.m. They will then enter an executive session to consider a purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property for an interconnection underground pipe located at 116 Walker Street, under M.G.L. chapter 30A, section 21(a)(6). No other agenda items are listed.

• Executive session to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property for an interconnection underground pipe at 116 Walker Street

At 4:34 p.m., the Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners moved to enter executive session to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property for an interconnection underground pipe at 116 Walker Street. The motion was moved by Clerk Lima, seconded by Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, and was approved unanimously by all three commissioners. The Chairman also stated the Board will not reconvene in open session after the executive session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session on 116 Walker St underground pipe purchase (3‑0)
• Decided not to reconvene in open session after the executive session (3‑0)

Playground & Recreation Commission

The Playground & Recreation Commission and the Board of Selectmen are holding a joint meeting. The body will discuss and act on filling a vacancy created by the resignation of Robert Camara.

• Appointment of James Pereira to the Board of Playground & Recreation for a term ending April 13, 2026

The joint meeting approved James (Jim) Pereira as a member of the Playground & Recreation Commission, with a term ending April 13, 2026. The appointment was approved unanimously by all members present. The commission also voted to recess the meeting at 6:30 pm, which passed unanimously.

• Approved James Pereira appointment to Playground & Recreation Commission (term ends Apr 13, 2026) – unanimous vote
• Approved motion to recess meeting at 6:30 pm – unanimous vote

Playground & Recreation Commission

The commission will consider proposals for a photo shoot at Pierce Beach and a stick skills program. The body will also review field permits for the Somerset Baseball League and the Somerset-Berkley Softball League.

• Proposal from Pretty Nerdy Photography for Pierce Beach photo shoot
• Proposal from Phil Strangolagall for Stick Skills Program
• Proposal from Marge Cardoza for Middle School Washington DC Plunge
• Field permits for Somerset Baseball League (South Complex) and Somerset-Berkley Softball League (Ashton Field)
• Status updates on Community Preservation Act (C.P.A.) projects including O’Neill Field Building repainting

The Playground & Recreation Commission approved the August 27 minutes and appointed Jim Perreira to the vacant Board of Commissioners seat. It also approved a family photo shoot by Pretty Nerdy Photography at Pierce Beach, a DC dunk event for Somerset Middle School, and field‑use permits for the Somerset Baseball League and the Somerset‑Berkley Softball League.

• Approved August 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Jim Perreira appointment to Board of Commissioners (unanimous)
• Approved Pretty Nerdy Photography family photo shoot at Pierce Beach (unanimous)
• Approved Middle School DC Dunk event at Pierce Beach on Jan 10 (unanimous)
• Approved Somerset Baseball League field permits (2‑1; Darlington abstained)
• Approved Somerset‑Berkley Softball League field use through Oct 31 (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Somerset Council on Aging meeting set for September 17, 2025 was cancelled. Consequently, no financial reports, facility updates, or other agenda items will be discussed or decided at this time.

• Financial reports: municipal budget updates for July and August
• Grant status update and gifts account expenditures
• Facilities maintenance report for July and August
• Update on mini‑split HVAC units
• Discussion of Christmas party and COA policy update

Trustees of the Public Library

The Board of Trustees will meet to discuss how changes to Selectmen’s Meetings may affect library hours. The board will also vote on the approval of June 17, 2025 minutes and monthly reports for June, July, and August.

• Vote on June 17, 2025 minutes
• Vote on Director's Monthly Reports for June, July, and August
• Discussion of library hours relative to Selectmen’s Meetings
• Policy Review Plan update
• Carpet update

The trustees approved the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting. They also accepted the Director's Reports for June, July and August 2025. A letter from the Library Director about a possible change in Selectmen meeting day was tabled until September 17. No other actions were taken.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Accepted Director's Report June 2025 (unanimous vote)
• Accepted Director's Report July 2025 (unanimous vote)
• Accepted Director's Report August 2025 (unanimous vote)
• Tabled Library Director's correspondence on Selectmen meeting change until Sep 17

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Southeast Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will approve the August 19, 2025 meeting minutes and hear public comments. It will receive a report from the Regional Transit Authorities and present the FY 2025 Unified Planning Work Program close‑out. A draft Regional Evacuation Route Plan will be presented, with a roll‑call vote to release it for a 21‑day public comment period. Updates on several Phase 1 transportation plans will also be discussed.

• Approval of minutes from August 19, 2025 (roll‑call vote needed)
• Roll‑call vote to release Draft Regional Evacuation Route Plan for 21‑day public comment
• FFY 2025 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) close‑out presentation
• Food Access and Security in Transportation Plan (Phase 1) update
• Parking Lot Utilization Plan (Phase 1) update (link provided)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will discuss the creation of a Small Business Day to provide recognition and resources for local businesses. The body will also conduct annual policy reviews and receive updates on several town infrastructure and beautification projects.

• Brainstorming for Somerset Small Business Day
• Annual Policy Reviews
• Route 103/Wilbur Avenue Project update
• Brightman Bridge Overlook / Fishing Pier update
• Downtown Beautification Program status

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee will discuss and act on a revision to the 2025‑2026 Student & Family Handbook and on hourly rates for non‑union personnel such as van drivers and crossing guards. It will also appoint a voting delegate for the annual MASS/MASC Joint Conference, receive updates on enrollment, staffing, and building inspections, and review budget updates and several policy items.

• Discuss and act on revision to 2025‑2026 Student & Family Handbook
• Consider and act on appointing a voting delegate for resolutions at the Annual MASS/MASC Joint Conference
• Discuss and act on non‑union personnel hourly rates (special education van drivers, crossing guards, hall monitors, lunchroom supervisors, non‑union cafeteria workers, substitutes)
• Policy Subcommittee report on Facility Rental Fee Schedule
• Consider approval and release/redaction of August 19, 2025 Joint Open Session and Executive Session minutes

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee voted unanimously to adopt the proposed non‑union personnel hourly rates for FY26. It also approved the revised 2025‑2026 Student & Family Handbook and gave second‑reading approval to several policy items and the facility‑rental fee schedule. The appointment of a delegate to the MASS/MASC joint conference was tabled, and the minutes from August 19, 2025 were approved. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved revision to 2025‑2026 Student & Family Handbook (5‑0)
• Tabled appointment of a voting delegate for the MASS/MASC Joint Conference (5‑0)
• Approved non‑union personnel hourly rates for FY26 (5‑0)
• Approved second reading of Attendance & Extracurricular (JH), Promotion & Retention (IKE), Commencement Exercise Participation (IKF) and Background Checks (ADDA) policies (5‑0)
• Approved second reading of facility rental fee schedule revisions (5‑0)
• Approved open‑session minutes of August 19, 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved release with redactions of joint executive‑session minutes of August 19, 2025 (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee Policy Subcommittee will meet to discuss turf availability and facility rental policies, review school attendance rules, and approve new student exchange program companies.

• Turf availability and facility rental policy discussion
• School attendance and extracurricular policy review
• Approval of new student exchange program companies
• Approval of July 15, 2025 minutes

Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee

The Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee will hear updates from the HMCC program and financial managers. It will consider and approve the budget for the Massachusetts Health Officers Association conference. The meeting will also review the Emergency Response Framework tabletop exercise scheduled for October 15, 2025, and receive state health updates.

• Budget approval for the MHOA conference
• Save‑the‑date for Emergency Response Framework tabletop exercise on Oct 15, 2025
• Review of WebEOC drill requirement
• Identification of two training needs
• Next coalition meeting scheduled for Oct 21, 2025

Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Committee

The Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Executive Committee will meet on September 16, 2025 at the Lakeville Public Library. The agenda includes reviewing minutes, logistic plan revisions, budget period 2 priorities, and a proposal from Crawford & Associates for an Emergency Response Framework tabletop exercise. The committee will also receive updates from the Health & Medical Coordinating Coalition and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Upcoming meetings and a tabletop exercise are scheduled for October.

• Review of Emergency Response Framework Tabletop Exercise proposal (Crawford & Associates)
• Review of Budget Period 2 priorities and deliverables
• Review of Logistic Plan revisions
• Health & Medical Coordinating Coalition (HMCC) update
• Save the date for Tabletop Exercise on October 15, 2025

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset Middle School Building Committee will receive reports from the project manager and architects. The committee is scheduled to review and approve construction change orders and owner contingency expenditures. Members will also discuss building committee membership and approval limits for the construction subcommittee.

• Review and approval of construction change orders
• Review and approval of owner contingency expenditures
• Consideration of revised approval limits for the construction subcommittee
• Discussion and action on building committee membership
• Updates on HVAC, electrical, and athletic field construction

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Diman Housebuilding/Facilities Subcommittee will meet on September 11, 2025. The agenda includes approval of the June 12, 2025 meeting minutes and updates on community projects and the 25/26 housebuilding project. No specific decisions beyond the minutes approval are indicated.

• Approve June 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Community Projects Update
• 25/26 Housebuilding Project Update

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Greater Fall River Vocational School Committee will consider several pending items, including a vote to reaffirm Prime Contract Change Order (PCCO) No. 009 and a vote on MSBA project expenditures. The committee will also review multiple personnel appointments and resignations, and vote on various operational matters such as an individual employment agreement for the Director of Finance, student travel requests, and use of facilities. The meeting includes routine approvals of recent meeting minutes and public comment limited to ten speakers.

• Reaffirmation of Prime Contract Change Order (PCCO) No. 009 — vote if necessary
• MSBA Project Expenditures — vote if necessary
• Personnel appointments (e.g., Randall Allender, HVAC Instructor; Victoria Castro, Administrative Assistant)
• Individual Employment Agreement – Melissa Petrasso, Director of Finance — vote if necessary
• Student Travel Requests — vote if necessary

Board of Selectmen

The Somerset Board of Selectmen will discuss and vote on several items, including a Chapter 90 request for road work on multiple streets, a contract with D.D.S. Industries to install mini‑splits at the Council on Aging building, and a temporary use application for a car show at Slades Ferry Park & Ride. They will also address a waiver of reading minutes, a non‑compliance hearing for Lit Vape Smoke Shop, and follow‑up on soil reports from the Brayton Point site.

• Waive reading of July 10 and July 30, 2025 Board of Selectmen minutes
• Non‑compliance hearing for Lit Vape Smoke Shop, 1140 Riverside Avenue
• Chapter 90 request for road work on Brayton Point Road and several local streets
• Vote to sign agreement with D.D.S. Industries for mini‑split installation at the Council on Aging building
• Application for temporary use of Slades Ferry Park & Ride for a car show on September 21, 2025

The Selectmen unanimously approved the Chapter 90 request for road repairs on multiple streets. They also approved an agreement with D.D.S. Industries to install mini‑split units at the Council on Aging building. The Board of Health sustained a complaint against Lit Vape Smoke Shop, upholding a $1,000 fine, and approved the Wilbur Avenue Associates propane‑storage application with detailed conditions. Additionally, the Board waived reading of the July 10 and July 30, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved Chapter 90 road work request (3-0)
• Approved agreement with D.D.S. Industries for mini‑splits at Council on Aging building (3-0)
• Sustained complaint against Lit Vape Smoke Shop, upholding $1,000 fine (3-0)
• Approved Wilbur Avenue Associates propane‑storage application with conditions (3-0)
• Waived reading of July 10, 2025 and July 30, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Opened Lit Vape Smoke Shop health hearing (3-0)
• Closed Lit Vape Smoke Shop health hearing (3-0)
• Adjourned Board of Health meeting (3-0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Somerset Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will waive reading the minutes from the August 13, August 27, and September 2, 2025 meetings and approve them as circulated. Commissioners will discuss the September 2 presentation and public comments, receive routine reports including the superintendent report, an update on the NPDES permit for the water pollution control facility, and a water and sewer rate study. They will consider a sewer connection application for 722 Wood Street and note the discontinuation of IT consulting services from Scott N. Cheetham.

• Waive reading and approve minutes from Aug 13, Aug 27, Sep 2, 2025 meetings
• Update on Phase I of NPDES permit for the Water Pollution Control Facility
• Update on Water and Sewer Rate Study
• Consider approval of sewer connection application for 722 Wood Street
• Notice of discontinuation of IT consulting services from Scott N. Cheetham

The Board waived reading of the August 13, 2025 minutes and approved them. It also tabled the minutes from the August 27 and September 2, 2025 meetings. The Board approved the sewer application for 722 Wood Street. The meeting was adjourned at 5:01 pm.

• Waived reading of August 13, 2025 minutes – approved (Clerk Lima, Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Chairman Cadorette all yes)
• Tabled minutes of August 27 and September 2, 2025 – approved (Clerk Lima, Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Chairman Cadorette all yes)
• Approved sewer application for 722 Wood Street – approved (Clerk Lima, Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Chairman Cadorette all yes)
• Adjourned meeting – approved (Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Clerk Lima, Chairman Cadorette all yes)

Board of Health

The Somerset Board of Selectmen and Board of Health will consider several items, including a vote to sign an agreement with D.D.D. Industries of Fall River for installing mini‑splits at the Council on Aging building. They will also discuss a Chapter 90 road request covering multiple streets, a propane storage application at 329 Wilbur Avenue, a hearing on a non‑compliance violation at Lit Vape Smoke Shop (1140 Riverside Avenue), and a temporary use request for a car show at Slades Ferry Park & Ride on September 21, 2025.

• Vote to sign agreement with D.D.D. Industries for mini‑split installation at Council on Aging building
• Chapter 90 request for road work on Brayton Point Road, Keene, Anawan, Pocasset, Massasoit, O’Neil, Spruce, Sycamore, Cypress, Scenic, Redwood, Shawomet, Buxton, Grandview, Harrison, and Linden streets
• Application by Wilbur Avenue Associates to store propane at 329 Wilbur Avenue
• Hearing on first violation for Lit Vape Smoke Shop, 1140 Riverside Avenue, for flavored tobacco product sale
• Temporary use application by Nick Soares for Big Daddy Car Show at Slades Ferry Park & Ride, Slades Ferry Avenue, September 21, 2025

The Board unanimously approved the Chapter 90 request to fund road work on Brayton Point Road and numerous other streets. It also approved an agreement with D.D.S. Industries to install mini‑splits at the Council on Aging building. The Board sustained the complaint against Lit Vape Smoke Shop, issuing a $1,000.00 fine. Finally, the Board approved Wilbur Avenue Associates' propane‑storage application with detailed monitoring conditions.

• Approved Chapter 90 road request for listed streets (3‑0)
• Approved agreement with D.D.S. Industries to install mini‑splits at Council on Aging building (3‑0)
• Sustained complaint against Lit Vape Smoke Shop, issuing $1,000.00 fine (3‑0)
• Approved Wilbur Avenue Associates propane‑storage application with monitoring conditions (3‑0)
• Waived reading of July 10 and July 30, 2025 Selectmen minutes (3‑0)
• Approved executive‑session minutes of August 27, 2025 (3‑0)

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Joint Transportation Planning Group will discuss regional transit updates and several transportation plans. The body is deciding whether to recommend the Draft Regional Evacuation Route Plan to the SMMPO for a 21-day public comment period.

• Vote on Draft Regional Evacuation Route Plan recommendation
• FFY 2025 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) Close Out Presentation
• Food Access and Security in Transportation Plan (Phase 1) Update
• Parking Lot Utilization Plan (Phase 1) Update
• Age-Friendly Mobility Plan (Phase 1) Update

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee and Somerset School Committee Sick Bank Committee will meet virtually. The session includes an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy regarding the Somerset Teachers Association Unit A sick bank.

• Executive session regarding Somerset Teachers Association Unit A sick bank replenishment

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee will hold an executive session to develop strategy related to collective bargaining or litigation. The focus is the Somerset Teachers Association Unit A's request to replenish its sick bank. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Executive session: strategy discussion for replenishing Somerset Teachers Association Unit A sick bank

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Admissions Sub‑Committee will hold a regular meeting on September 9, 2025. The committee will approve the minutes from the August 14, 2025 meeting. Members will discuss the current admissions policy and may vote on any revisions. The meeting will be accessible via a Zoom link provided in the notice.

• Approval of August 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of admissions policy with possible vote on revisions
• Public access via Zoom link (https://us0O2web.zoom.us/s/87213899074?pwd=bGTIU8W7Rag70msLYwoXst9auXyFjT.1, passcode 928825)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee will hear the superintendent’s report, including the award of a $298,200 PRISM 2 grant for reading success. The committee will consider and act on items such as approval of the 2025‑2026 elementary handbook, revision of the middle school handbook, and feedback on the superintendent evaluation. Financial agenda items include review of the 2024‑2025 budget, update on the 2025‑2026 budget, and actions on prepayment of special education tuitions and non‑union personnel hourly rates. Additional topics cover updates on redistricting, building inspections, and second readings of the community‑use‑of‑schools fee schedule and background‑check policy.

• Award of $298,200 PRISM 2 Grant for Partnership for Reading Success
• Discuss and act on approval of 2025‑2026 Elementary Handbook
• Discuss and act on approval of prepayment of special education tuitions
• Discuss and act on second reading of Community Use of Schools (KF) fee schedule
• Review of 2024‑2025 budget and update on 2025‑2026 budget

The Somerset School Committee voted unanimously to set a $20 per hour rate for ESY paraprofessionals who are not district employees and to provide an $880 stipend for each coordinator. It also approved a request to the MSBA to separate the South and North window projects into separate projects, confirmed the redistricting subcommittee members, and adopted the June 3, 2025 open‑session minutes. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved request to MSBA to separate South and North window projects (5-0)
• Approved $20/hr rate for ESY paraprofessionals and $880 coordinator stipend (5-0)
• Approved redistricting subcommittee members as presented (5-0)
• Approved open‑session minutes of June 3, 2025 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee meeting on September 9, 2025 will include public input, introductions of members, and the establishment of collaboration norms. The committee will appoint a chair and vice chair and discuss next steps for the district. No specific policy decisions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Public input
• Introduction of members
• Establish norms of collaboration
• Appointment of chair and vice chair
• Discussion of next steps

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to reorganize the board and discuss available funds for Fiscal Year 2026. The body will also review project submission requirements and application deadlines.

• Re-organization of the Community Preservation Board
• Discussion of available Community Preservation Funds for Fiscal year 2026
• Review of project submission guidelines and requirements
• Discussion of application deadlines for eligibility and funding
• Status review of existing Community Preservation Act Projects

The committee postponed discussion of Item 6 (project status) to the December 18, 2025 meeting. The board unanimously approved the minutes from April 11, 2025, nominated a new Chair and Clerk, and approved adding a 12‑month start‑time limit to the project guide. The meeting was adjourned at 4:53 PM.

• Approved minutes for April 11, 2025 (unanimous approval)
• Nominated Turner as Board Chair (unanimous approval)
• Nominated Jordan as Clerk (unanimous approval)
• Added 12‑month project start‑time limit to guide (unanimous approval)
• Postponed Item 6 discussion on project status to Dec 18, 2025 (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:53 PM (unanimous approval)

Historical Commission

The Somerset Historical Commission will review research on the Bowers Cemetery to determine if it will receive signage via a CPA grant. The board will also receive updates on the Quaker Meeting House and discuss information dissemination with guest George Austin.

• Discussion on Bowers Cemetery signage eligibility under CPA grant
• Updates on Quaker Meeting House and grounds/cemetery
• Discussion with George Austin regarding project information dissemination
• Review and vote on August 7, 2025 minutes
• Review and vote on August 2025 Treasurer’s Report

The commission approved the August 7, 2025 meeting minutes and the August 2025 Treasurer’s report unanimously. Commissioners agreed that Bower’s Cemetery will be the first cemetery to receive signage through the Historical Commission’s CPA grant. The next meeting was scheduled for October 2, 2025.

• Approved August 7, 2025 minutes unanimously
• Approved August 2025 Treasurer’s report unanimously
• Agreed Bower’s Cemetery will receive signage via CPA grant

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Somerset Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners heard Wright‑Pierce engineers’ updated draft report on wastewater regionalization with the City of Fall River. The engineers concluded that regionalization is not favorable for Somerset. After the presentation and public comments, the board voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting. No other actions or approvals were taken.

• Motion to adjourn meeting approved (Clerk Lima – aye, Vice‑Chairman Bednarik – aye, Chairman Cadorette – aye)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to consider several variance requests for residential properties and special permits for business developments. The board will also review correspondence, invoices, and previous meeting minutes.

• Planned Development and Special Permit for a drive-thru oil change facility at Route 6 and Brayton Point Rd.
• Planned Development and Variance for a 6,080 s.f. indoor storage facility on Wilbur Avenue.
• Variance request for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) at 87 Foley Avenue.
• Variance request for an attached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at 7 Halsey Avenue.
• Variance request for shed renovation setbacks at 244 Denham Avenue.

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen approved the executive‑session minutes from July 23, 2025 (3‑0). They appointed Interim Building Inspector James Aguiar as Building Commissioner/Zoning Enforcement Officer effective September 15, 2025 and approved his employment contract (both 3‑0). The Board also approved a license‑name change for Car Connections to Auto Select LLC (3‑0), accepted a $4,052 donation for the Veterans Services Department (3‑0), and approved temporary use of town property for bowling‑fundraiser signs (3‑0). Additionally, the ABCC advisory item was withdrawn from the agenda (3‑0) and the Lit Vape Smoke Shop health hearing was postponed (3‑0).

• Approved executive‑session minutes of July 23, 2025 (3‑0)
• Appointed James Aguiar as Building Commissioner/Zoning Enforcement Officer (3‑0)
• Approved employment contract for James Aguiar as Building Commissioner (3‑0)
• Amended Car Connections license to Auto Select LLC (3‑0)
• Accepted $4,052 donation from Horner Millwork/North Atlantic Corp for Veterans Services (3‑0)
• Approved temporary use of town property for bowling‑fundraiser signs (3‑0)
• Withdrew ABCC advisory item from agenda (3‑0)
• Postponed Lit Vape Smoke Shop Board of Health hearing (3‑0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will consider funding for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit requirements. The body will also review a sewer connection application and a drainlayer license. Personnel changes including a resignation and retirement will be noted.

• Wright-Pierce Task Order 34 for NPDES Permit Requirements funding
• Sewer connection application for 7 Deer Street
• Drainlayer license for Biszko Contracting Corp.
• Abatement request for 91 Hemlock Street
• Update on Water and Sewer Rate Study

The Board waived the reading of the July 16 minutes and approved them as circulated. It tabled the July 30 and August 13 minutes. The Board approved a $30,000 increase to the NPDES permit funding, an abatement payment of $173.32 for a sewer fee, a new drain‑layer license for Biszko Contracting, and a sewer connection payment of $220 for 7 Deer Street.

• Waived reading and approved July 16 minutes (Clerk Lima yes; Chairman Cadorette yes)
• Tabled July 30 and August 13 minutes (Clerk Lima yes; Chairman Cadorette yes)
• Approved $30,000 increase to NPDES permit funding (from $282,600 to $312,600) (Clerk Lima yes; Chairman Cadorette yes)
• Approved sewer/infra fee abatement for Natasha Joseph – $173.32 (Clerk Lima yes; Chairman Cadorette yes)
• Approved new drain‑layer license for Biszko Contracting Corp., 20 Development St. (Clerk Lima yes; Chairman Cadorette yes)
• Approved sewer connection for 7 Deer St. – $220 payment to town (Clerk Lima yes; Chairman Cadorette yes)

Playground & Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission approved field permits for Somerset Flag Football, the Somerset Baseball League (pending a schedule estimate), and the Brian Rose Baseball League. The minutes from the July 29 meeting were also approved. Proposals for a Pierce Beach photo shoot and a graffiti art project were tabled for future consideration.

• Approved July 29, 2025 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Approved Somerset Flag Football field permit (Aspden aye, Kardel aye, Darlington abstain, Gaw aye)
• Approved Somerset Baseball League field permit, pending schedule estimate by Sep 5 (Aspden aye, Kardel aye, Darlington abstain, Gaw aye)
• Approved Brian Rose Baseball League field permit (Aspiden aye, Kardel aye, Darlington aye, Gaw aye)
• Tabled Pretty Nerdy Photography proposal for Pierce Beach holiday photos
• Tabled Elizabeth Paskowski graffiti art project proposal
• Tabled Berkley Softball League application (no application submitted)
• Adjourned meeting (all members aye)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee voted to remove $42,500 from the Capital Reserve fund to cover 60% of the design development phase for the North Elementary School window replacement project. The motion, moved by Ms. Ashley and seconded by Mr. Ventura, passed unanimously (5‑0). The committee also voted unanimously (5‑0) to adjourn the meeting.

• Approved removal of $42,500 from Capital Reserve for North Elementary window design (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board unanimously approved amendments to its Rules & Regulations for Special Permits for Mixed Use Development and for Subdivision of Land, adding language that any initial application fee is non‑refundable regardless of outcome. The Board also voted to continue the hearing on the 1320 Wilbur Avenue planned development to the September 23, 2025 meeting and approved the appointment of a zoning recodification committee using the same members as the Battery storage committee.

• Continued Planned Development hearing for 1320 Wilbur Ave to Sept 23, 2025 (unanimous)
• Amended Special Permits for Mixed Use Development rules to make initial application fee non‑refundable (unanimous)
• Amended Subdivision of Land rules to make initial application fee non‑refundable (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of recodification committee members same as Battery storage committee (unanimous)
• Approved amended minutes for May 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for May 20, 2025, waiving reading (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for June 24, 2025, waiving reading (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for July 22, 2025, waiving reading (vote 4‑0, McDonald abstained)

Housing Authority

The board unanimously approved the 2025 Fiscal Year End report, the top five salaries, the lead‑paint certifications, and the wage‑match program. All four motions were accepted without dissent. The meeting then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved 2025 Fiscal Year End report (unanimous)
• Approved Top Five Salaries (unanimous)
• Approved Lead Paint Certifications (unanimous)
• Approved Wage Match (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Greater Fall River Vocational School District Committee will hold a special meeting to conduct an interview for the Director of Finance position. The committee will also enter executive session to approve amended minutes from May 8, 2025.

• Interview of Melissa Petrasso for Director of Finance
• Approval of amended May 8, 2025 minutes in executive session

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Southeastern Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will discuss regional route planning and the MassDOT LEAP program. The body will vote on proposed adjustments and amendments to project costs within the FFY2025-2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).

• FFY2025-2029 TIP Proposed Adjustment #3 for GATRA & SRTA FFY2025 and 2026 project cost modifications
• FFY2025-2029 TIP Proposed Amendment #5 for SRTA FFY2025 project cost modifications
• Regional Evaluation Route Plan presentation and discussion
• MassDOT Local Early-Stage and Actionable Planning (LEAP) Program presentation

Somerset School Committee

The committee entered executive session twice, once for each district, to discuss collective‑bargaining strategy. Both the Somerset School Committee and the Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee approved a 5% salary increase for Superintendent Dr. Jeffrey Schoonover for July 1 2025 – June 30 2026. Each board also approved the positions and salaries of non‑aligned personnel as listed on the superintendent’s spreadsheet. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously.

• Entered executive session (Somerset School Committee, 5‑0)
• Entered executive session (Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee, 5‑0)
• Approved 5% salary increase for Dr. Schoonover (Somerset School Committee, 5‑0)
• Approved 5% salary increase for Dr. Schoonover (Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee, 5‑0)
• Approved non‑aligned personnel positions and salaries (Somerset School Committee, 5‑0)
• Approved non‑aligned personnel positions and salaries (Somerset Berkley Regional School Committee, 5‑0)
• Tasked policy subcommittees to draft an employee travel policy (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (Somerset School Committee, 5‑0)

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee voted 5‑0 to approve the FY25 circuit breaker reimbursement of $1,055,805, applying the extra $155,805 to FY26 out‑of‑district special‑education tuitions. It also approved the 2025‑2026 Student & Family Handbook, the first reading of several updated policies, and the prepayment of FY26 special‑education tuitions for up to three months. The minutes of the July 15, 2025 open session were approved unanimously.

• Approved $1,055,805 circuit breaker funds for FY26 out‑of‑district tuitions (5‑0)
• Approved 2025‑2026 Student & Family Handbook (5‑0)
• Approved first reading of updated attendance, promotion, graduation, background‑check and facility‑rental policies (5‑0)
• Approved prepayment of FY26 special‑education tuitions for up to three months (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of July 15, 2025 open session (5‑0)

Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School Board

The Greater Fall River Vocational School District Committee will discuss MSBA school building project updates and vote on contract change orders. The board is also reviewing a large list of personnel appointments for teachers, coaches, and staff, as well as the selection of a Director of Finance.

• Vote on MSBA Prime Contract Change Orders (PCCO) No. 007 and No. 008
• MSBA project expenditures for Colliers, Kaestle Boos, Moody’s Ratings, Suffolk, and Yankee Engineering
• Appointments for various instructional staff, including a District Instructional Technology Specialist and multiple teachers
• Vote on FY24-27 Medical Emergency Response Plan, FY25-28 Professional Development Plan, and FY26-28 School Improvement Plan
• Vote on Policy IHAQA-R regarding rules for owners during school-built home construction

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will discuss a Sewer Intermunicipal Agreement with the Town of Swansea. Members will consider payments for a water treatment plant asset management plan and technical assistance. The board will also review abatement requests for two residential properties.

• Sewer Intermunicipal Agreement discussion with Swansea Sewer Commission and Director of Engineering & Highway Services
• Payment Request No. 1 for Grant Project No. DWSRF-16771 (Somerset Water Treatment Plant Asset Management Plan)
• Wright-Pierce Task 33 for Water and Wastewater Technical Assistance and Plan Reviews
• Abatement requests for 1907 Brayton Point Road and 84 Wood Street
• Update on Water and Sewer Rate Study

The Board voted to approve Payment Requisition No. 1 for Grant Project DWSRF‑16771, authorizing a $27,587 payment for the Somerset Water Treatment Plant Asset Management Plan. It also approved a Wright‑Pierce task order for up to $15,000 for water and wastewater technical assistance, and a one‑time $164.65 abatement for Joanne Ganem’s toilet leak. Minutes from the July 16 and July 30 meetings were tabled.

• Approved $27,587 grant payment (all in favor)
• Approved Wright‑Pierce task order up to $15,000 (all in favor)
• Approved one‑time $164.65 abatement for Joanne Ganem (all in favor)
• Tabled minutes of July 16, 2025 meeting (all in favor)

Southeast Regional Planning & Economic Development

The Joint Transportation Planning Group will meet to review transportation updates and planning programs. The session includes a presentation and discussion on a draft Regional Evacuation Route Plan.

• Presentation and discussion of the Draft Regional Evacuation Route Plan
• MassDOT Local Early-Stage and Actionable Planning (LEAP) Program presentation
• FFY2025-2029 TIP Projects status updates
• Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) report

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee approved several financial and policy actions. It authorized a $630,383 circuit breaker reimbursement to offset FY26 out‑of‑district tuition and a $163,052 carryover to fund a social worker for FY26‑27. The committee also authorized prepayment of special‑education tuition, adopted a childcare contract, and approved first readings of two new policies.

• Approved $163,052 emergency assistance fund carryover for a social worker FY26‑27 (4‑0)
• Approved $630,383 FY25 circuit breaker reimbursement to offset FY26 out‑of‑district tuition (4‑0)
• Authorized prepayment of special‑education tuition for up to three months (4‑0)
• Approved contract with KCE Champions, LLC for before‑ and after‑school childcare Jan 1 2026‑June 30 2028 (4‑0)
• Approved first reading of policy KF – Community Use of School Facilities – Fee Schedule (4‑0)
• Approved first reading of ADDA – Background Checks policy (4‑0)
• Adopted citation for Jo‑Ellen Paterno (4‑0)
• Approved open‑session minutes of July 22 2025 (4‑0)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset Middle School Building Committee will meet to discuss construction progress, including HVAC and electrical updates, athletic field construction, and project warranties. The agenda includes reviewing construction change orders and contingency expenditures.

• Review and Approval of Construction Change Orders
• Review and Approval of Owner Contingency Expenditures
• HVAC and Electrical Updates
• Athletic Field Construction and General Lawn Updates
• Project Warranty Update

Historical Commission

The commission decided to focus on researching individual town cemeteries rather than continuing the Book of Records project. Dr. Healey will study cemeteries without abutters, and the chair will provide a preliminary list. The May 8, 2025 and July 3, 2025 minutes and the July 2025 Treasurer’s report were approved unanimously.

• Approved May 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 3, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 2025 Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Decided to focus research on individual town cemeteries
• Directed Dr. Healey to research cemeteries without abutters
• Chair to forward preliminary list of cemeteries without abutters to Dr. Healey
• Chair to contact other town clerks about on‑site digitizing of the Book of Records
• Chair to invite Somerset Sentinel editor George Austin to the next meeting

Housing Authority

The Somerset Housing Authority board approved the minutes from the June 12 meeting and accepted the June and July 2025 warrants. It hired Demelo Construction for the John F. Kennedy Terrace sidewalk improvement at $86,900 and hired Levesques Tree Care to remove dead trees at Eugene Murphy Village. The board also extended Executive Director Lynn Berube’s contract through June 30 2026. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved June 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted June and July 2025 warrants (unanimous)
• Approved Demelo Construction sidewalk contract $86,900 (unanimous)
• Approved Levesques Tree Care tree removal contract (unanimous)
• Extended Executive Director contract to 06/30/2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen approved borrowing $5,024,834 through the Mass Clean Water Trust to refurbish five pump stations. They also appointed Jameson Rose as a patrolman, authorized health actions against the Brayton Point site, and approved a petition to seek a state exemption to end water fluoridation. Additional actions included approving election worker appointments, a town road‑race event, and contracts for fuel and fencing supplies.

• Waived reading of May 14 & 28 meeting minutes (2‑0)
• Appointed Jameson Rose as Patrolman, effective Aug 17, 2025 (2‑0)
• Approved $5,024,834 loan for pump‑station upgrades via Mass Clean Water Trust (2‑0)
• Authorized health actions, including cease‑and‑desist, against Brayton Point (2‑0)
• Approved appointment of election workers for 2025‑2026 term (2‑0)
• Approved temporary use of town property for 10K Road Race on Sep 20, 2025 (2‑0)
• Awarded SERSG fuel contract to Dennis K Burke Inc (2‑0)
• Adopted petition to seek state exemption to stop water fluoridation (2‑0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board approved moving into executive session to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property at Brook Street, Dighton Well. It also approved the revised abatement policy, specific resident abatements, Amendment #3 with Synagro Northeast LLC, and a $3,500 engagement for a rental rate assessment. Minutes from June 25 and July 2 were waived, and the July 16 minutes were tabled.

• Approved executive session to discuss Brook Street property (all in favor)
• Approved revised abatement policy (all in favor)
• Approved $129.99 abatement for Karen Croteau (all in favor)
• Approved $121.32 abatement for Guy Poisson (all in favor)
• Approved Amendment #3 with Synagro Northeast LLC (all in favor)
• Approved $3,500 Letter of Engagement for rental rate assessment (all in favor)
• Waived reading and approved minutes of June 25 and July 2 meetings (all in favor)
• Tabled minutes of July 16 meeting (all in favor)

Council on Aging

The board accepted the June 2025 meeting minutes after correcting the allocation of CPA and free‑cash funds. It approved a revised political‑activity policy that requires a moderator and includes both Republican and Democratic candidates. The board combined the two draft policies into a single document, withdrew the earlier motion on campaign use of the COA, and adopted a rewrite that moves background discussion to a separate reference. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted June 2025 minutes with CPA fund correction (all in favor)
• Approved revised political‑activity policy with moderator requirement (all in favor)
• Combined two draft policies into one (decision, no vote recorded)
• Withdrew previous motion on COA political campaign use (all in favor)
• Accepted rewrite to place background discussion in separate document (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Playground & Recreation Commission

The Playground & Recreation Commission approved the July 1, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved a field permit for South Coast Elite Flag Football and two beach party permits (Tavares Birthday Party and Snell Birthday Party). All motions passed with unanimous support.

• Approved July 1, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved South Coast Elite Flag Football field permit (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved Tavares Birthday Party beach permit (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved Snell Birthday Party beach permit (unanimous 4‑0)

Planning Board

The board voted to continue the public hearing on amending fee rules and the planned development hearing for 1320 Wilbur Avenue to the August 26 meeting. It also postponed approval of the May 20 and June 24 minutes and placed the May 13 minutes on the August 26 agenda. The meeting was adjourned until the next session on August 26, 2025.

• Continue public hearing on fee‑rule amendment to Aug 26 (unanimous)
• Continue Planned Development hearing for 1320 Wilbur Ave to Aug 26 (unanimous)
• Continue approval of May 20, 2025 minutes to Aug 26 (unanimous)
• Continue approval of June 24, 2025 minutes to Aug 26 (unanimous)
• Place approval of May 13, 2025 minutes on Aug 26 agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting until Aug 26, 2025 (unanimous)

Somerset School Committee

The School Committee approved several actions, including adopting the citation for retiring custodian Michael Alves and appointing Dr. Resnik as school physician for FY 2025‑26. It voted unanimously to request the Massachusetts School Building Authority separate the South and North window replacement projects, allowing the North project to proceed in summer 2026. Additional approvals covered ESY paraprofessional rates, a boiler/burner services contract with Arden Engineering, and a $1,000 donation to South Elementary.

• Adopt citation for Michael Alves (5-0)
• Appoint Dr. Resnik as school physician (5-0)
• Request MSBA separate South and North window projects (5-0)
• Approve purchase of chairs, floor protection and storage for assemblies (5-0)
• Set ESY paraprofessional rate $20/hr and $880 coordinator stipend (5-0)
• Approve boiler/burner services contract with Arden Engineering (5-0)
• Accept $1,000 donation from Feinstein Foundation to South Elementary (5-0)
• Approve open session minutes of June 3, 2025 (5-0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board approved a $40,000 proposal from The Abrahams Group for water and sewer rate analysis. They also voted to enter executive session to discuss the Brook Street, Dighton Well property purchase. The meeting waived the reading of the June 18, 2025 minutes, approved them, and tabled the June 25 and July 2 minutes; no routine vouchers were signed.

• Approved $40,000 Abrahams Group rate analysis proposal (Clerk Lima, Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Chairman Cadorette – all yes)
• Entered executive session to discuss Brook Street, Dighton Well property (Clerk Lima, Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Chairman Cadorette – all yes)
• Waived reading of June 18, 2025 minutes and approved as circulated (Clerk Lima, Chairman Cadorette – both yes)
• Tabled minutes of June 25 and July 2, 2025 meetings (Clerk Lima, Chairman Cadorette – both yes)

Somerset Berkley Regional High School Committee

The school committee approved a new boiler and burner services contract with Arden Engineering for July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. It also set a $20 hourly rate for extended school year paraprofessionals and an $880 stipend for each coordinator. Dr. Staci Resnick was appointed school physician for the same period, and the second reading of the JIC Student Discipline policy was approved. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved boiler/burner services contract with Arden Engineering (6-0)
• Approved $20/hr rate for ESY paraprofessionals and $880 stipend per coordinator (6-0)
• Appointed Dr. Staci Resnick as school physician (6-0)
• Approved second reading of JIC – Student Discipline policy (6-0)
• Approved two change orders for turf field irrigation system
• Approved Open Session minutes of June 10, 2025 (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Advisory & Finance Committee

The Advisory & Finance Committee unanimously approved the minutes from prior meetings. It then approved a series of year‑end budget transfers for the Police Department, Treasurer/Tax Collector, Town Administrator Office, Legal Department, and Highway Department. All motions passed with a 6‑0 AYE vote. The meeting adjourned at about 6:00 p.m.

• Approved May 8 and May 19, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0 AYE)
• Approved March 13 and April 10, 2025 amended minutes (4‑0 AYE, 1 abstain)
• Approved Police Department retroactive pay transfer of $15,000.00 (6‑0 AYE)
• Approved five Treasurer/Tax Collector invoice processing transfers totaling $8,321.18 (6‑0 AYE)
• Approved Town Administrator Office retiree buyout transfer of $19,200.00 (6‑0 AYE)
• Approved Legal Department budget transfers totaling $57,661.80 (6‑0 AYE)
• Approved Legal Department fuel oil transfer of $914.15 (6‑0 AYE)
• Approved Highway Department reserve fund transfer of $834.76 (6‑0 AYE)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen approved Memoranda of Agreement with the AFL‑CIO State Council 93 Local 1701 for the Highway Union, Water Department Union, and Water Pollution Control Union, each by a 3‑0 roll‑call vote. They also approved nine year‑end budget transfers totaling $66,897.48, all by unanimous vote. The board unanimously authorized the Southeast Regional Services Group paper contract with W.B. Mason. The meeting was adjourned at 7:13 p.m. by a unanimous vote.

• Approved Highway Union MOA (3‑0)
• Approved Water Department Union MOA (3‑0)
• Approved Water Pollution Control Union MOA (3‑0)
• Approved nine year‑end budget transfers totaling $66,897.48 (3‑0)
• Approved paper contract with W.B. Mason (3‑0)
• Designated Selectman Souza to sign union MOAs tonight
• Designated Selectmen Smith and Costa to sign later
• Adjourned meeting at 7:13 p.m. (3‑0)

Historical Commission

The commission created a subcommittee of Paul Healey, John Larsen and Marybeth Rua‑Larsen to continue research on the Book of Records. The May 8, 2025 minutes were tabled and the May and June 2025 Treasurer’s Report was approved unanimously. Future meetings will start at 5 p.m., and the next meeting was set for August 7, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.

• Formed subcommittee (Healey, Larsen, Rua‑Larsen) to research Book of Records
• Tabled May 8, 2025 minutes
• Approved May 2025 and June 2025 Treasurer’s Report unanimously
• Decided future meetings will begin at 5 p.m.
• Scheduled next meeting for August 7, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen unanimously approved a motion to revise the language of Article 48 for a fluoride ballot question. They also approved a $10,000 police donation, budget transfers totaling $34,200, a fee increase for Weights and Measures inspections, and tabled three labor agreements. Committee assignments were confirmed and the meeting was adjourned.

• Waived reading of May 6 & 7, 2025 meeting minutes – approved 3-0
• Approved FY 2025 committee assignments – approved 3-0
• Accepted $10,000 donation from Senator Michael Rodrigues for Police Department – approved 3-0
• Approved year‑end budget transfers: $15,000 from Police wages to E911 Dispatch wages and $19,200 from Town Administrator wages to Selectmen’s wages – approved 3-0
• Tabled three AFSCME Local 1701 memoranda of agreement (Highway, Water, Water Pollution Control) – approved 3-0
• Accepted proposed Weights and Measures inspection fee increase – approved 3-0
• Authorized Town Administrator to work with Town Council to revise Article 48 language on fluoride ballot question – approved 3-0
• Adjourned the meeting – approved 3-0

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The commissioners approved the June 4, 2025 meeting minutes and postponed approval of the June 18 and June 25 minutes. They appointed Christopher Wickman as Superintendent of the Water and Sewer Departments effective July 1, 2025. They also approved signing the operational‑services contract with Weston & Samson for the Water Pollution Control Facility. All three votes were recorded as aye.

• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (Lima‑aye, Bednarik‑aye, Cadorette‑aye)
• Tabled approval of June 18 and June 25 minutes (Lima‑aye, Bednarik‑aye, Cadorette‑aye)
• Appointed Christopher Wickman as Superintendent, effective July 1, 2025 (Lima‑aye, Bednarik‑aye, Cadorette‑aye)
• Signed operational‑services contract with Weston & Samson for Water Pollution Control Facility (Bednarik‑aye, Lima‑aye, Cadorette‑aye)

Playground & Recreation Commission

The Playground & Recreation Commission approved the June 4 minutes and an Eagle Scout project for Gaga Ball pits. It hired Elizabeth Darlington as a beach supervisor and approved permits and facility use for several community events and youth sports leagues.

• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (5 aye, 0 abstain) – motion passed
• Approved Eagle Scout project for Gaga Ball pits (5 aye, 0 abstain) – motion passed
• Approved Buster Book Club field permit for July 18 (5 aye, 0 abstain) – motion passed
• Hired Elizabeth Darlington as beach supervisor (4 aye, 1 abstain) – motion passed
• Approved use of Pierce Beach for Education Foundation Chalk Walk (4 aye, 1 abstain) – motion passed
• Approved use of Pierce Beach for Shirley May France 10K race route (5 aye, 0 abstain) – motion passed
• Approved Somerset Youth Basketball Summer League courts at Pottersville (4 aye, 1 abstain) – motion passed
• Approved Somerset Flag Football League use of Pottersville or O’Neill Field (4 aye, 1 abstain) – motion passed

Cultural Council

The council unanimously waived the reading of the minutes, approved the treasury report, and approved a $350 allocation for promotional materials. No action was taken on the proposed $1,700 historical placards. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Waived reading of minutes (unanimous)
• Approved treasury report (unanimous)
• Allocated $350 for promotional materials (unanimous)
• No action on $1,700 historical placards (no decision)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The board waived reading of the May 21, 2025 minutes and approved them as circulated. It tabled the minutes of the June 4 and June 18, 2025 meetings. Commissioners approved a new sewer connection application for 8 Vanhoe Avenue. They also voted to enter executive session to discuss the Brook Street, Dighton Well property.

• Waived reading and approved May 21, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Tabled June 4 and June 18, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved new sewer connection at 8 Vanhoe Avenue (all in favor)
• Entered executive session to consider Brook Street, Dighton Well property (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted to continue the hearing on the SAMARJJ LLC Planned Development permit to the July 22, 2025 meeting. The Board also moved to defer the May 20, 2025 draft minutes to the July 22 meeting. Finally, the Board adjourned the session until July 22, 2025, with all motions passing unanimously.

• Continue Planned Development hearing to July 22, 2025 (unanimous 5-0)
• Continue May 20, 2025 draft minutes to July 22, 2025 (unanimous 5-0)
• Adjourn session until July 22, 2025 (unanimous 5-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen waived the reading of the April 30, 2025 minutes and approved several licenses and temporary use applications. They declared a town vehicle surplus, approved annual appointments, set a MassDOT meeting date, and authorized the Town Administrator to sign a Blue Cross/Blue Shield fitness contract. All motions were approved unanimously or by roll‑call vote where noted.

• Waived reading of April 30, 2025 Board minutes (motion approved, no vote recorded)
• Approved Common Victualler License for Upcycle Edibles LLC d/b/a Railway Pie (2-0)
• Approved temporary use of town property for Somerset Music Festival Parade (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved temporary use of town property for Girl Scout Troop 1163 car wash fundraiser (2-0)
• Declared 2008 White Chevrolet Colorado VIN 1GCCS14E188157083 surplus property (2-0)
• Approved annual appointments as posted on website (2-0)
• Scheduled meeting with MassDOT on Aug 19, 2025 to discuss intersection changes (decision, no vote recorded)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign Blue Cross/Blue Shield Fitness Course Contract (2-0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Water and Sewer Commissioners voted to enter executive session at 5:06 p.m. to discuss collective bargaining strategy for the Water Department and the Laborers International Union. The motion was moved by Clerk Robert Lima, seconded by Vice‑Chairman Joseph Bednarik, and approved unanimously (3‑0).

• Approved motion to enter executive session on collective bargaining strategy (3-0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board waived reading of the May 12 minutes and approved them, while tabling the May 21 and June 4 minutes. Routine vouchers of $40,858.18 for water and $116,262.97 for sewer were approved. The Board appointed a new clerk, approved an easement relocation at 115 Walker Street, set FY26 water and sewer rates, authorized surplus disposal, and approved new connections at 365 Pilot Drive.

• Waived reading and approved May 12 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled minutes of May 21 and June 4 meetings (unanimous)
• Approved routine vouchers: $40,858.18 water, $116,262.97 sewer (unanimous)
• Appointed Melissa Albert as Clerk of Water Pollution Control Dept (unanimous, pending background check)
• Approved easement relocation agreement for sewer easement at 115 Walker Street (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 water rate $6.33/1,000 gal (up $0.11) and sewer rate $7.10/1,000 gal (up $0.40) (unanimous)
• Approved surplus items for advertisement or disposal (unanimous)
• Approved water and sewer connections at 365 Pilot Drive (unanimous)

Trustees of the Public Library

The trustees approved the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting and accepted the Director’s Report for May. They also approved the purchase of 35 Clatina Big & Tall chairs and 50 stackable chairs for the Cucinotta and Shipyard Rooms, funded by the $10,000 donation from the Estate of Laurence P. Carvalho.

• Approved May 20, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by John Foley, second by Norbert Dionne)
• Approved Director’s Report for May 2025 (motion by Norbert Dionne, second by Bridget Marcotte)
• Approved purchase of 35 Clatina Big & Tall chairs and 50 stackable chairs for library rooms, funded by donation (motion by Bridget Marcotte, second by John Foley)

Housing Authority

The Somerset Housing Authority board unanimously approved a $78,049 payment to Bristol County Retirement for the 2026 pension fund. It also approved amendment #14 to a financial assistance contract for $23,800, a 6‑month maintenance management agreement with the Fall River Housing Authority, and a service agreement for the Residential Retrofit Round III Grant. Additionally, the board accepted the March, April, and May 2025 warrants and agreed to place a $125 ad in the MassNAHRO program book.

• Approved $78,049 payment to Bristol County Retirement (unanimous)
• Approved amendment #14 to Contract for Financial Assistance, $23,800 (unanimous)
• Approved 6‑month maintenance management agreement with Fall River Housing Authority (unanimous)
• Approved service agreement for Residential Retrofit Round III Grant (unanimous)
• Approved $125 advertisement in MassNAHRO program book (no vote required)
• Accepted March 2025 warrant (unanimous)
• Accepted April 2025 warrant (unanimous)
• Accepted May 2025 warrant (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen unanimously approved the town's water and sewer treatment chemical contract and the Department of Public Works supply contract with Southeastern Regional Services Group. They also approved a liquor license for Slade’s Ferry Grille, accepted two $10,000 donations from the Estate of Laurence P. Carvalho for the Library and the Council on Aging, and appointed Amy Messier as the town representative to the Joint Transportation Planning Group.

• Approved water & sewer treatment chemical contract with SERSG (3-0)
• Approved Department Public Works supply contract with SERSG (3-0)
• Approved Slade’s Ferry Grille liquor license (3-0)
• Accepted $10,000 donation to Somerset Public Library (3-0)
• Accepted $10,000 donation to Council on Aging (3-0)
• Appointed Amy Messier as JTPG representative, Christopher Simons alternate (3-0)
• Waived reading of April 16 and 23, 2025 Board minutes (3-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (3-0)

Council on Aging

The board accepted the May 2025 meeting minutes with all members in favor. Joan Cowen was nominated and seconded as interim co‑chair until a new co‑chair can be voted on, with unanimous support. The meeting was adjourned at 9:58 am by unanimous vote.

• Accepted May 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Appointed Joan Cowen as interim co‑chair (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:58 am (all in favor)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board waived reading the May 7 minutes and approved them as circulated, and tabled the May 12 and May 21 minutes. Routine vouchers totaling $122,918.97 for the Water Department and $128,393.85 for the Sewer Department were approved. The Board also approved two National Grid service agreements ($0.00 and $5,572.56) and new water and sewer connections at 663 Whetstone Hill Road. The appointment of a new superintendent was postponed pending contract review.

• Waived reading of May 7 minutes and approved as circulated (all in favor)
• Tabled minutes of May 12 and May 21 (all in favor)
• Approved routine water vouchers $122,918.97 (board approval)
• Approved routine sewer vouchers $128,393.85 (board approval)
• Approved National Grid Service Agreement $0.00 for 0 Millers Lane (all in favor)
• Approved National Grid Service Agreement $5,572.56 for 0 Owen Avenue (all in favor)
• Approved water connection for 663 Whetstone Hill Road (all in favor)
• Approved sewer connection for 663 Whetstone Hill Road (all in favor)

Playground & Recreation Commission

The Playground & Recreation Commission approved the May 7 meeting minutes. It approved Montella Karate Academy's summer program for ages 5‑12 at $60 per participant. The commission also approved a field permit for a Pagan Family wedding, promoted Jack Hansen and Kellen Kardel to supervisor roles, approved a permit for the Somerset Berkley Softball League, and approved placement of an equipment bin for the Share the Game project.

• Approved May 7, 2025 minutes (all five members aye)
• Approved Montella Karate Academy summer program ($60) (all five members aye)
• Approved field permit for Pagan Family wedding (all five members aye)
• Promoted Jack Hansen and Kellen Kardel to supervisor roles (Kardel abstained, others aye)
• Approved Somerset Berkley Softball League permit (all five members aye)
• Approved placement of equipment bin for Share the Game (Darlington abstained, others aye)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:19 pm (all five members aye)

Somerset School Committee

The committee unanimously approved the May 30 budget amendments, contracts for electrical and plumbing services, and the 2025‑2026 middle school handbook and improvement plan. It also appointed Superintendent Schoonover to the South Coast Educational Collaborative board and accepted a revised redistricting survey to be posted online. Citations for the student representative and retiring staff were adopted as well.

• Approved budget amendments per May 30, 2025 memo (5‑0)
• Approved electrical repairs contract with Boston Electric and Telephone Corp (BETCO) (5‑0)
• Approved plumbing services contract with D.D.S. Industries (5‑0)
• Approved 2025‑2026 Somerset Middle School Student and Parent/Guardian Handbook (5‑0)
• Approved 2025‑2026 Somerset Middle School School Improvement Plan (5‑0)
• Appointed Superintendent Schoonover to South Coast Educational Collaborative Board (5‑0)
• Accepted redistricting survey and set posting deadline June 10 (5‑0)
• Adopted citations for Student Rep Emily Souza and retirees (5‑0)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen unanimously approved a purchase and sales agreement to sell the town‑owned former gas station site at 3280 County Street. The sale proceeds will first repay a state grant for remediation, with any remainder going to the town. The agreement was signed following a motion that received a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved entry into executive session (3-0)
• Waived reading of April 9, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved public hearing for Upcycle Edibles wine & malt license (3-0)
• Closed public hearing for Upcycle Edibles wine & malt license (3-0)
• Approved Wine & Malt Beverages License for Upcycle Edibles d/b/a Railway Pie at 938 Lees River Ave (3-0)
• Approved purchase & sales agreement for town land at 3280 County Street (3-0)
• Approved appointment of Marybeth Buglio as part‑time Tobacco Inspector (term ending June 30, 2026) (3-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (3-0)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee voted 5-0 to award the North Elementary Guard/Handrail project to Collins Construction Company for $149,873. It also approved the Northeast Balcony concrete repair to East Coast Masonry & Restoration for $298,600, with a $31,527 construction contingency. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Approved award of $149,873 handrail contract to Collins Construction Company (5-0)
• Approved award of $298,600 balcony concrete contract to East Coast Masonry & Restoration with $31,527 contingency (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The board waived reading of the April 16 and April 23 minutes and tabled the May 7 and May 12 minutes. Routine vouchers of $28,352.94 for Water and $86,477.91 for Sewer were approved. The board approved a $150,000 task order with Wright‑Pierce, appointed a Collection System Technician, granted a $554.61 sewer abatement, approved a $1,261.70 payment to BAL Laboratory, and authorized advertising the Collection System Chief Operator position. An executive session was called to discuss real‑property matters at 3256 County Street.

• Waived reading of April 16 and April 23 minutes (all in favor)
• Tabled minutes of May 7 and May 12 (all in favor)
• Approved routine vouchers: $28,352.94 Water, $86,477.91 Sewer (all in favor)
• Approved Task Order No. 30 – $150,000 with Wright‑Pierce (all in favor)
• Appointed Austin T. Silvia as Collection System Technician (all in favor)
• Approved $554.61 sewer abatement for Denise Medeiros (all in favor)
• Approved $1,261.70 payment to BAL Laboratory (all in favor)
• Authorized advertisement of Collection System Chief Operator position (all in favor)

Trustees of the Public Library

The trustees approved the minutes from the April 22, 2025 meeting. They also approved the Director’s Report for April 2025. Finally, the board elected officers for the 2025‑2026 term: Chairman Gayle Bradbury, Vice‑Chairman Norbert Dionne, and Secretary Elizabeth Ponte.

• Approved minutes of April 22, 2025 (vote: G Bradbury, N Dionne, J Dyl, J Foley, B Marcote, E Ponte)
• Approved Director’s Report for April 2025 (vote: E Almeida, G Bradbury, N Dionne, J Dyl, J Foley, E Ponte)
• Elected officers for 2025‑2026: Chairman Gayle Bradbury, Vice‑Chairman Norbert Dionne, Secretary Elizabeth Ponte

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the January 14, February 11, March 11, and April 22, 2025 meetings by unanimous vote. No vote was taken on the Chapter 91 Waterways License application for the Ripley Street dock; discussion ended without a decision. The board then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Approved Jan 14, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Feb 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Mar 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Apr 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Advisory & Finance Committee

The committee voted unanimously to recommend Article 35, which would create a new Grade B, Step 3‑4 position at the Water Pollution Control Facility. It also approved a year‑end transfer of $1,422.12 from expense line 205.400.5212 to line 205.110.5113 to cover a custodian wage shortfall.

• Recommended Article 35 to create new Water Pollution Control Facility position (8‑0 AYE)
• Approved year‑end transfer of $1,422.12 from line 205.400.5212 to line 205.110.5113 (8‑0 AYE)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee entertained a motion to adjourn. The motion was moved by Ms. Courville, seconded by Ms. Ashley, and passed unanimously with a 5-0 roll‑call vote. The meeting adjourned at 5:04 p.m.

• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen entered executive session and unanimously approved the April 9, 2025 executive‑session minutes. They also waived and approved the reading of the April 2, 2025 minutes. The Board unanimously approved a $1,422.12 transfer from the Fire/Police Complex Natural Gas account to the Fire/Police Complex Wages Full‑Time Personnel account, and they approved a temporary use permit for the Halloween 5K & Walk at Pierce Beach Park, South Street and Riverside Avenue on Oct 25, 2025. The meeting was adjourned at 6:53 pm.

• Approved executive‑session minutes for April 9, 2025 (3‑0)
• Waived reading and approved minutes for April 2, 2025 (3‑0)
• Approved $1,422.12 budget transfer from Natural Gas to Wages Full‑Time Personnel (3‑0)
• Approved temporary use of Pierce Beach Park, South Street, Riverside Avenue for Halloween 5K & Walk (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:53 pm (3‑0)

Planning Board

The Board unanimously adopted a set of conditions to forward to the Zoning Board of Appeals for the Take 5 Oil Change Planned Development Permit. It also voted 3‑2 to continue the Chapter 91 waterway license hearing to the May 20 meeting. The Board approved the April 15 and April 22 Planning Board minutes and adjourned the session.

• Adopted conditions for Take 5 Oil Change permit (unanimous, 5‑aye)
• Continued Chapter 91 waterway license hearing to May 20 (3‑2)
• Approved April 15 Planning Board minutes (unanimous, 5‑aye)
• Approved April 22 Planning Board minutes (unanimous, 5‑aye)
• Adjourned meeting to May 20 (unanimous, 5‑aye)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board heard Wright‑Pierce engineers present a draft report on regionalizing Somerset's wastewater system with the City of Fall River, covering options, costs, and timelines. Public members asked questions about costs, flow rates, and permitting, which the engineers and Chairman Cadorette answered. No formal motions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the meeting. The Board noted that design funds have been allocated previously and that $3.5 million is planned for allocation at the upcoming Town Meeting.

Housing Authority

The Somerset Housing Authority unanimously approved hiring J & R Resendes Corporation for the underline water replacement project at Eugene Murphy Village. It also approved a change order for fire alarm upgrades, a pest‑control contract, an emergency and on‑call maintenance policy, and a unit‑inspection contract with Assabet Valley. No action was taken on a proposed maintenance contract with Fall River Housing Authority.

• Approved award of underline water replacement project #273068 to J & R Resendes Corp. (unanimous)
• Approved no‑cost change order extending Federal Pacific Panels and Fire Alarm System upgrades by 120 days (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Flynn Pest Control for $2,395 to address insect issue (unanimous)
• Approved acknowledgment of Public Housing Notices 2023‑03 and 2019‑16 (unanimous)
• Adopted Emergency Policy adding “No Electricity” to after‑hours repairs (unanimous)
• Adopted On‑call Maintenance Policy requiring one‑hour response for emergencies (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Assabet Valley Housing Inspections at $23 per unit for both developments (unanimous)
• No action taken on proposed maintenance contract with Fall River Housing Authority (deferred)

Advisory & Finance Committee

The Advisory & Finance Committee approved the minutes of the April 30 meeting (5‑0). It unanimously approved a series of annual appropriations, including $32,077,458 for General Government and $25,958,017 for the School Department. The committee also approved multiple transfers of free cash for projects such as town‑office windows and HVAC ($1.5M), road and sidewalk improvements ($500K), and a police cruiser ($70K). A $10,000 reserve‑fund transfer was authorized for tree removal work.

• Approved April 30 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved $32,077,458 General Government appropriation (6‑0)
• Approved $25,958,017 Somerset School Department appropriation (6‑0)
• Approved $1,500,000 transfer for Town Office windows/HVAC (6‑0)
• Approved $500,000 transfer for road/sidewalk improvements (6‑0)
• Approved $70,000 transfer for police cruiser purchase (6‑0)
• Approved $10,000 reserve‑fund transfer for Tree Warden removals (6‑0)
• Approved construction of Bike Park at Pottersville School (6‑0)

Historical Commission

The commission approved the minutes from December 4, 2024; February 5, 2025; March 5, 2025; and April 3, 2025 unanimously. The April 2025 Treasurer’s Report was also approved unanimously. Commissioners agreed to take Mr. Sowersby’s idea for the Fire Barn under advisement.

• Approve Dec 4 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approve Feb 5 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approve Mar 5 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approve Apr 3 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approve April 2025 Treasurer’s Report (unanimous)
• Take fire barn proposal under advisement (no vote)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen approved the executive session minutes from April 2, 2025 and granted a one‑day wine and malt beverage license for June 28, 2025. They appointed Timothy Turner to the Council on Aging Board, set a fixed date for the Annual Town Meeting, and named Christopher Simons (with alternate Scott Santos) as the town’s representative to the Joint Transportation Planning Group. The Board also nominated Chairman Allen Smith for the SMMPO, and adjourned the meeting at 7:23 pm, all by unanimous 3‑0 votes.

• Approved executive session minutes of April 2, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved special one‑day Wines & Malt Beverages Only License for June 28, 2025 (3-0)
• Appointed Timothy Turner to the Council on Aging Board, term ending June 30, 2027 (3-0)
• Signed the Annual Town Meeting Warrant (3-0)
• Set Annual Town Meeting adjournment to May 21, 2025 at 6 pm, Somerset Berkley Regional High School (3-0)
• Appointed Christopher Simons (alternate Scott Santos) as Board’s Representative to the Joint Transportation Planning Group, term ending May 31, 2026 (3-0)
• Nominated Chairman Allen Smith to apply to the SMMPO (3-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:23 pm (3-0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board approved a change to the sewer abatement policy, removing the plumber‑receipt requirement for outside hose or irrigation leaks and eliminating pool‑filling from the policy. Routine vouchers totaling $36,734.21 for water and $63,749.96 for sewer were approved. Individual one‑time lifetime abatements were approved for Lydia Freitas ($580.61) and Robert Maynard ($606.61). The Board also authorized electronic processing of bills without initializing each warrant.

• Approved revision to abatement policy: no plumber receipt needed for outside leaks; pool filling removed (vote 3‑yes)
• Approved routine water vouchers $36,734.21 and sewer vouchers $63,749.96 (no vote recorded)
• Approved one‑time lifetime abatement for Lydia Freitas, $580.61 (vote 3‑yes)
• Approved one‑time lifetime abatement for Robert Maynard, $606.61 (vote 3‑yes)
• Authorized Superintendent to approve all bills on a warrant electronically (vote 3‑yes)
• Waived reading of April 9, 2025 minutes and approved them as circulated (vote 3‑yes)
• Tabled minutes of April 16 and April 23, 2025 meetings (vote 3‑yes)
• Moted to enter executive session at 6:15 PM for contract negotiations (vote 3‑yes)

Playground & Recreation Commission

The Playground & Recreation Commission approved the South Elementary School All‑Day Summer Program proposal. It also approved field permits for the Bocce League, Potterville baseball field, South Complex lower field, and O’Neil Field. A birthday party at Pierce Beach and a $100 donation for O’Neill field flowers were approved as well. All motions passed with the recorded vote tallies.

• Approved South Elementary School Summer Program proposal (all 5 members aye)
• Approved Bocce League field permit (all 5 members aye)
• Approved Potterville field permit for Saturdays and Sundays, May 7–June 22 (2 aye, 2 abstain, 1 aye)
• Approved South Complex lower field permit for Sundays, May 7–June 22 (2 aye, 2 abstain, 1 aye)
• Approved O’Neil Field use on Tuesday nights, May 7–June 21 with lights (2 aye, 2 abstain, 1 aye)
• Approved Pierce Beach birthday party on June 21, 2025 (all 5 members aye)
• Approved allocation of $100 donation to flowers for O’Neill field (all 5 members aye)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting at 9:02 pm (all 5 members aye)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen and School Committee approved a motion to call the meeting to order at 6:33 p.m. by a roll‑call vote of Souza, Costa and Smith. Later they approved a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:47 p.m. with a unanimous 3‑0 vote. No other actions, such as budget approval, were decided.

• Approved motion to call meeting to order at 6:33 pm (3-0 roll call)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting at 7:47 pm (3-0 unanimous)

Economic Development Committee

The committee unanimously approved an $850 expenditure for Riverwalk consultant services. It also unanimously approved the minutes from the April 1 and April 15 meetings. No other motions were decided during the session.

• Approved $850 Riverwalk consultant expense (unanimous)
• Approved April 1 and April 15 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Somerset School Committee

The Somerset School Committee voted unanimously on several motions, including adopting a citation for Kimberly Ferreira and allowing the chair to respond to an Open Meeting Law complaint. It approved new pay rates tied to entitlement and competitive grants, accepted the 2025‑2026 meeting schedule, and passed the second reading of the Budget Transfer (DBJ) policy that mandates committee approval for budget adjustments over ten percent. The committee also approved the minutes from recent sessions and adjourned.

• Adopt citation for Kimberly Ferreira (5‑0)
• Allow Chair to issue response to Open Meeting Law complaint (5‑0)
• Approve pay rates for entitlement and competitive grants (5‑0)
• Accept 2025‑2026 meeting schedule (5‑0)
• Approve second reading of Budget Transfer (DBJ) policy (5‑0)
• Approve April and March minutes and joint session minutes (5‑0)
• Adjourn meeting (5‑0)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen approved the March 19, 2025 executive session minutes and waived the reading of those minutes. They appointed George Andes as the town's Veterans' Graves Officer for a two‑year term. The Advisory and Finance Committee approved a $32,097.52 reserve fund transfer for a retirement cost and authorized the Town Administrator to sign the town's electrical agreements.

• Approved March 19, 2025 executive session minutes (3-0)
• Appointed George Andes as Veterans’ Graves Officer (3-0)
• Waived reading of March 19, 2025 meeting minutes and approved them (2-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved $32,097.52 reserve fund transfer for retirement cost (9-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign electrical agreements as executor (3-0)

Playground & Recreation Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the April 9 meeting and confirmed staffing for the All Day Summer Program, Beach, and Special Events/Lifeguard programs for 2025. A $1 hourly wage increase for supervisors was approved. The board also appointed new officers and closed the meeting at 7:50 p.m.

• Approved April 9 minutes (3 aye, 1 abstain)
• Approved All Day Summer Program staff (unanimous)
• Approved Beach staff (unanimous)
• Approved Special Events and Lifeguard staff (unanimous)
• Approved $1 hourly wage increase for supervisors (unanimous)
• Appointed Maryellen Aspden as Chair (4 aye, 1 abstain)
• Appointed Jen Gaw as Clerk (4 aye, 1 abstain)
• Appointed Jeff Kardel as CPA representative (4 aye, 1 abstain)

Advisory & Finance Committee

The Advisory & Finance Committee voted unanimously (9‑0) to transfer $32,097.52 from the town reserve fund to cover retirement costs for Captain Paul Thibault. The committee also approved the minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting by a vote of 7 in favor, 1 abstention, and 1 no response. The meeting was adjourned unanimously (9‑0) at about 7:46 p.m.

• Approved $32,097.52 fire department reserve fund transfer (9-0)
• Approved April 10, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0-1 abstain-1 no response)
• Adjourned meeting (9-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen unanimously approved adding a Historical Easement article to the Town warrant. They also authorized the Town Administrator to sign all related grant documents. Fees at the town transfer station were increased, and May 18‑24, 2025 was designated Emergency Medical Services Week. A $350 donation to the Police Department was accepted and deposited.

• Approved Historical Easement article for Town warrant (3-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign Historical Easement grant documents (3-0)
• Approved increase of fees at Transfer Station (3-0)
• Designated May 18‑24, 2025 as Emergency Medical Services Week (3-0)
• Accepted $350 donation from Our Lady of Peace Church for Police Department (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:14 pm (3-0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board approved routine vouchers of $31,561.96 for Water and $90,767.98 for Sewer. It approved a memorandum of agreement to compensate the Senior Operator for duties performed between Jan. 3 and Feb. 10, 2025. The Board adopted M.G.L. c. 41 § 56, designating Chairman Cadorette to approve all bills. Several other items, including various abatements and bylaw discussions, were tabled for future consideration.

• Approved routine Water Department voucher $31,561.96 (unanimous)
• Approved routine Sewer Department voucher $90,767.98 (unanimous)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement for Senior Operator compensation (Clerk Lima yes, Chairman Cadorette yes)
• Adopted M.G.L. c. 41 § 56 to let Chairman approve all bills (Clerk Lima yes, Chairman Cadorette yes)
• Waived reading and approved March 26, 2025 minutes (Clerk Lima yes, Chairman Cadorette yes)
• Tabled April 9 and April 16, 2025 minutes (Clerk Lima yes, Chairman Cadorette yes)
• Tabled discussion on potential ADU water and sewer bylaw requirements (no vote recorded)
• Tabled several individual abatements (e.g., Robert Maynard, Lydia Freitas) for future agenda

Council on Aging

The council accepted the March 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. A subcommittee of Joan Cowen, Tracey Costa, and Tony Kucikas was formed to interview prospective board members. The panel chose Kenneth Menard as the part‑time van driver, with a start date of April 28 pending a background check. The board decided to prohibit campaigning at the COA while allowing question‑and‑answer office hours for selectmen.

• Accepted March 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Formed subcommittee (Joan Cowen, Tracey Costa, Tony Kucikas) to set up board member interviews
• Selected Kenneth Menard as part‑time van driver; start date April 28 pending CORI
• Prohibited campaigning at the COA but permitted Q&A office hours for selectmen
• Adjourned meeting at 10:19 am (unanimous)

Trustees of the Public Library

The trustees unanimously approved the minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting. They also unanimously accepted the Library Director’s March 2025 report. Finally, the Board unanimously approved the Collection Development Policy after minor wording changes.

• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Library Director’s March 2025 report (unanimous)
• Approved amended Collection Development Policy (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved numerous amendments to the Slades Ferry Overlay District bylaw, including commercial‑only street‑level use, lot‑frontage wording, and removal of nursing‑home language. It accepted the SRPEDD‑proposed housing density (4‑1) and adopted the board’s revised bylaw (unanimous). The Board then voted 4‑1 to make a favorable recommendation of the revised bylaw to the town meeting. Additional motions on recording language and adjournment passed unanimously.

• Add paragraph requiring street‑level commercial use (unanimous)
• Change Minimum Lot Frontage entry from "N/A" to "any" (unanimous)
• Strike "nursing home facilities" from permitted uses (unanimous)
• Accept SRPEDD‑proposed housing density (4‑1)
• Accept board‑made changes to the Slades Ferry bylaw (unanimous)
• Recommend revised Slades Ferry zoning bylaw to town meeting (4‑1)
• Delete recording discrepancy clause from official minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board reorganized its leadership, naming Selectman Smith as Chairman, Selectman Costa as Chairman of the Board of Health, and Selectman Souza as Secretary. It unanimously approved a Special One Day All Alcohol License for an event on May 10, 2025 at Slades Ferry Park. The Board also unanimously approved new prices for town trash bags ($2.25 for small bags, $3.50 for large bags). Finally, five individuals were appointed as Inspectors of Animals for terms ending April 30, 2026.

• Approved Selectman Smith as Chairman of the Board (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Selectman Costa as Chairman of the Board of Health (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Selectman Souza as Secretary of the Board (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Special One Day All Alcohol License for May 10, 2025 event (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved new town trash bag prices: small $2.25, large $3.50 (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Lisa White, Lisa Cabral, Natasha Moniz, Ashley Benevides, and Chloe Plummer as Inspectors of Animals (3‑0 unanimous)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The board appointed Steven Cadorette as chairman, Joseph Bednarik, Jr. as vice‑chairman, and Robert E. Lima as clerk, with unanimous roll‑call votes. The board voted to table the minutes from the March 26 and April 9, 2025 meetings. The board approved an eight‑week contract extension for temporary wastewater operator services with Weston & Sampson Services Inc., also unanimously.

• Appointed Steven Cadorette as Chairman (unanimous)
• Appointed Joseph Bednarik, Jr. as Vice‑Chairman (unanimous)
• Appointed Robert E. Lima as Clerk (unanimous)
• Tabled minutes of March 26 and April 9, 2025 meetings (unanimous)
• Approved 8‑week contract extension to Weston & Sampson Services Inc. (unanimous)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee voted unanimously to approve a $1,000 expenditure from its budget to Rhode Races and Events for management services for the Somerset 10K Road Race. The motion was made by Jeff Marques and seconded by Heather Robertson. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved $1,000 deposit to Rhode Races and Events for 10K race management (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board elected Gary Simons as Chairperson, Timothy Turner as Vice Chairperson, and Lloyd Mendes as Clerk. It also appointed William Raposa to the SRPEDD commission and Gary Simons to the Somerset Community Preservation Committee. Additionally, the Board voted to continue two pending hearings to future dates.

• Elected Gary Simons as Chairperson – unanimous (Mendes, McDonald, Raposa, Turner, Simons)
• Elected Timothy Turner as Vice Chairperson – unanimous (Mendes, McDonald, Raposa, Turner, Simons)
• Appointed Lloyd Mendes as Clerk – unanimous (Mendes, McDonald, Raposa, Turner, Simons)
• Appointed William Raposa as Planning Board commissioner to SRPEDD – unanimous (Mendes, McDonald, Raposa, Turner, Simons)
• Appointed Gary Simons as Board representative to Somerset Community Preservation Committee – unanimous (Mendes, McDonald, Raposa, Turner, Simons)
• Continued Slade's Ferry Crossing District Bylaw public hearing to April 22, 2025 – unanimous (Mendes, McDonald, Raposa, Turner, Simons)
• Continued Planned Development permit hearing for Jay Patel to May 13, 2025 – unanimous (Mendes, McDonald, Raposa, Turner, Simons)
• Agreed to add an agenda item for Town Planner updates at future meetings

Somerset School Committee

The committee appointed Victor Machado, Jr. as Chair and Robert Gaw as Vice Chair, each by a 5‑0 vote. It approved two town‑meeting appropriations totaling $700,000 for the capital account and special‑education vans, also 5‑0. The committee voted 5‑0 to have Somerset Public Schools not participate in the School Choice program for 2025‑2026. Additional items such as appointments to the regional school committee, a recording secretary, and policy readings were approved unanimously.

• Appointed Victor Machado, Jr. as Chair (5-0)
• Appointed Robert Gaw as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Appointed Jennifer Ashley and Christine Courville to regional school committee (5-0)
• Appointed Robin Vaccaro as recording secretary (5-0)
• Approved $500,000 capital account and $200,000 special‑education van appropriations (5-0)
• Decided Somerset Public Schools will not join School Choice for 2025‑2026 (5-0)
• Approved first reading of Budget Transfer Authority policy (5-0)
• Approved April 1, 2025 open‑session minutes (5-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The board unanimously approved the minutes from 11/21/24 and 2/27/25. It then approved the FY 2027 funding amounts as presented, allocating $128,391 across open space, historic, and housing categories. The committee also set the Annual Meeting for August 7, 2025 at 140 Wood St., and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved 11/21/24 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2/27/25 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2027 funding plan with $427,970 total (unanimous)
• Scheduled Annual Meeting for 8/7/25 at 140 Wood St. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:55 PM (unanimous)

Advisory & Finance Committee

The Advisory & Finance Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 13, 2025 meeting. The committee also unanimously appointed Brian Johnson as the new secretary. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved March 13, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Appointed Brian Johnson as secretary (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board unanimously approved a price increase for town trash bags, raising small bags from $1.25 to $1.75 and large bags from $2.50 to $3.00. It also promoted Patrol Officer Eli Fishbein to Sergeant, reappointed Richard Peirce to the regional planning board, and approved the executive‑session minutes and a waiver of the March 5 meeting reading. The meeting was adjourned at 8:24 pm.

• Approved executive session minutes of March 5, 2025 (3-0)
• Waived reading of March 5, 2025 meeting minutes and approved as circulated (3-0)
• Promoted Patrol Officer Eli Fishbein to Sergeant effective April 13, 2025 (3-0)
• Reappointed Richard Peirce as Board representative to SE Regional Planning & Economic Development District (3-0)
• Approved increase in trash bag prices: small $1.25→$1.75, large $2.50→$3.00 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:24 pm (3-0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The commissioners approved routine vouchers totaling $56,093.84 for the Water Department and $34,922.93 for the Sewer Department. They appointed two new operators, approved a grease‑trap plan for Brasas Meat Market pending an engineer’s letter, and authorized Task Order No. 28 with Wright‑Pierce to pilot a Total Organic Carbon removal study. The board also adopted digital signing of warrants and entered executive session for collective‑bargaining preparation.

• Waived reading and approved March 12, 13, 19 minutes (all three commissioners voted yes)
• Tabled March 26 minutes (all three commissioners voted yes)
• Approved routine vouchers $56,093.84 (Water) and $34,922.93 (Sewer)
• Approved grease‑trap for Brasas Meat Market contingent on engineer letter (Clerk Lima, Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Chairman Cadorette all yes)
• Appointed Christopher Holland and David Melo as Operators pending background check (Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Clerk Lima, Chairman Cadorette all yes)
• Approved and signed Task Order No. 28 with Wright‑Pierce for TOC pilot study (Clerk Lima, Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Chairman Cadorette all yes)
• Adopted digital reviewing and signing of warrants (Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Clerk Lima, Chairman Cadorette all yes)
• Moted to enter Executive Session at 5:44 PM for collective‑bargaining preparation (Clerk Lima, Vice‑Chairman Bednarik, Chairman Cadorette all yes)

Playground & Recreation Commission

The commission approved the Somerset Berkley Education Foundation’s Halloween Road Race field permit for October 25, with three ayes and one abstention. They also approved a butterfly release event at Pierce Beach on May 18, pending insurance liability, with all members voting aye. The Easter Egg Hunt was postponed to April 26 at 9 a.m., and opening days were set for baseball on April 18 at 5 p.m. and softball on April 26 at 10 a.m. The March 19, 2025 meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved March 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Halloween Road Race field permit for Oct 25 (3‑aye, 1 abstain)
• Approved butterfly release at Pierce Beach on May 18 (unanimous)
• Postponed Easter Egg Hunt to April 26 at 9 a.m.
• Set baseball opening day for April 18 at 5 p.m.
• Set softball opening day for April 26 at 10 a.m.

Historical Commission

The commission tabled the minutes from December 4, 2024, February 5, 2025, and March 5, 2025. The Treasurer’s Report for February and March was approved unanimously. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Tabled December 4, 2024 minutes
• Tabled February 5, 2025 minutes
• Tabled March 5, 2025 minutes
• Approved Treasurer’s February report (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s March report (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen unanimously approved the warrant for the April 14, 2025 municipal election. They also approved a letter to the Democratic and Republican town committees to obtain candidate lists for election officers, appointed Ken Oehmen to the Veterans Advisory Board, and signed a license agreement with the Somerset Baseball League for the South Complex concession stand. Earlier, the Board entered executive session and waived reading of February meeting minutes, each by a 3‑0 vote.

• Entered executive session (3-0)
• Waived reading of February 24, 25, 26, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved warrant for the April 14, 2025 town election (3-0)
• Approved letter to party chairs to acquire election officer candidates (3-0)
• Appointed Ken Oehmen to the Veterans Advisory Board (3-0)
• Approved license agreement with Somerset Baseball League for South Complex concession stand (3-0)

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board waived the reading of the February 26 minutes and approved them as circulated. Routine vouchers of $109,365.85 for Water and $38,177.03 for Sewer were approved. Several items were approved, including a Davis‑Bacon change order, surplus vehicle and generator disposition, and a Memorandum of Agreement allowing higher‑step hires for the Wastewater Department. Discussions on service requirements and grease‑trap needs were tabled.

• Waived reading of Feb 26 minutes and approved as circulated (Clerk Lima yes, Vice‑Chair Bednarik yes)
• Tabled minutes of March 12, 13, 19 meetings (Clerk Lima yes, Vice‑Chair Bednarik yes)
• Approved routine vouchers: $109,365.85 Water Dept, $38,177.03 Sewer Dept
• Approved Change Order No. 1 with Biszko Building Systems for Davis‑Bacon wage rates (Clerk Lima yes, Vice‑Chair Bednarik yes)
• Approved surplus items (2009 Ford Explorer, 2011 Ford F250, 2011 Ford F150, Kohler 35 kW generator) for advertisement or disposal (Clerk Lima yes, Vice‑Chair Bednarik yes)
• Tabled water and sewer service requirements for Multi‑Family Residences at Slades Farm (Clerk Lima yes, Vice‑Chair Bednarik yes)
• Tabled discussion on grease‑trap need at 1100 County St (Clerk Lima yes, Vice‑Chair Bednarik yes)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with Wastewater Dept AFSCME Local 1701 to allow higher‑step hires (Clerk Lima yes, Vice‑Chair Bednarik yes, Chairman Cadorette yes)

Cultural Council

The council unanimously approved the meeting minutes as presented. The treasurer’s report was also approved unanimously. No discussion of specific grant awards took place. Officers will be elected at the next meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved treasurer's report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:03 (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen approved the executive‑session minutes from Jan. 29, 2025 (2‑0). They waived reading of the Feb. 24‑25 meetings and approved a change of manager for Chili’s Grill & Bar (2‑0). They also voted to refer the proposed zoning article for the Slades Ferry District to the Planning Board (2‑0). The joint Water & Sewer budget meeting was closed by unanimous vote.

• Approved Jan. 29 executive‑session minutes (2‑0)
• Waived reading of Feb. 24‑25 Board minutes (2‑0)
• Approved Chili’s Grill & Bar manager change (2‑0)
• Moved Slades Ferry District zoning article to Planning Board (2‑0)
• Closed Water & Sewer budget meeting (unanimous)
• Acknowledged resignation of Fire Captain Paul Thibault (no vote)
• Acknowledged resignation of Veteran’s Advisory Board member Tom Santos (no vote)
• Announced Veteran’s Advisory Board vacancy; applications due Apr 9, 2025

Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board voted unanimously to open the Water & Sewer Commissioners meeting with the Board of Selectmen. A discussion of the FY 2026 water and sewer budgets followed, but no budget items were voted on. The Board then voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 7:53 PM.

• Approved opening meeting with Board of Selectmen (all in favor)
• Approved adjournment of meeting at 7:53 PM (all in favor)

Playground & Recreation Commission

The commission approved a series of field permits for local sports leagues, including softball, baseball, village T‑Ball, Pierce Beach, and flag football, with votes ranging from unanimous to majority support. It also approved a $285.50 reimbursement for O’Neill jersey barrier supplies and contracted portable restroom and dumpster services for the town. Additional approvals included the Blue Raiders Volleyball Clinic and a Tiverton Middle School field trip.

• Approved Somerset Softball League field permit (5‑0)
• Approved Somerset Baseball League field permit (majority in favor, 3‑0‑2)
• Approved Village T‑Ball field permit (majority in favor, 3‑0‑2)
• Approved Pierce Beach field permit (majority in favor, 3‑0‑2)
• Approved Somerset Flag Football field permit (majority in favor, 4‑0‑1)
• Approved $285.50 reimbursement for O’Neill jersey barrier supplies (4‑1)
• Approved portable restroom contract with Throne Depot ($120/month) (5‑0)
• Approved Republic Dumpster Service contract (5‑0)