Welcome to Fall River Now. Here's your look at the week ahead in Fall River city government.

Tonight at 5:30, the Conservation Commission meets to take up several major project filings. Agenda items include an after-the-fact restoration plan on New Street from Weaver's Cove Industrial Park, a National Grid proposal to separate power lines onto paired monopoles across the Taunton River, and bulkhead repairs with dredging on Shaw Street for McAllister Towing. Commissioners will also discuss an update on Bell Rock Road, outstanding enforcement orders, and the possible adoption of a new fee structure.

Tuesday morning at 8:00, the Tax Increment Financing Board reviews three tax increment exemption agreement requests. The applications cover property at 138 Hartwell Street for the Thomas Alva Edison Building, 109 Howe Street for Charlton Mill Lofts, and 650 Plymouth Avenue for Connell Lofts.

Tuesday evening at 5:00, the City Council Committee on Ordinances and Legislation takes up a packed agenda. Councilors will discuss a proposal to restrict heavy commercial vehicles on Wilson Road, fines exceeding 250 dollars for unauthorized curb removals, and a planned compensation study with the Human Resources department. Also on the docket: splitting the City Operations Department into separate Community Maintenance and Facilities Maintenance departments, a proposed mandate to record all public meetings, and potential updates to the city's noise ordinance.

Also Tuesday at 5:30, the Fall River Sewer Commission considers two substantial contracts with engineering firm Wright Pierce. These include nearly 979 thousand dollars for the Alden Street roadway reconstruction and more than 232 thousand dollars for Ferry Street sewer pump station rehabilitation work.

Tuesday at 6:30, the Watuppa Water Board reviews lead service line replacement agreements totaling over 240 thousand dollars between contracts with Woodard and Curran and Ferreira Construction. The board will also examine leak abatement requests and a license agreement with the Copicut Rifle Association.

Also at 6:30 Tuesday evening, the School Committee's Evaluation Subcommittee meets. The panel plans to enter executive session to interview and consider candidates for the confidential administrative assistant position.

Wednesday evening at 5:30, the Board of Park Commissioners considers several community requests, including a proposal from Director of Veterans' Services Talos Farris to host the annual Veterans Day Parade at Kennedy Park. Commissioners will also review cemetery rules and regulations, requests for metal detecting and pickleball use, and a support letter for a Community Preservation Act project to build a BMX track at Britland Park.

On Thursday at 4:30 in the afternoon, the Fall River Housing Authority board meets. Agenda items include updated payment standards for federal Section 8 housing, modernizing apartment smoke alarms and panel systems, and the purchase of a 2026 Ford Transit cargo van for the facilities department.

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In this episode

• Conservation Commission @ 5:30PM
• Tax Increment Financing Board @8:00 a.m.
• City Council Committee on Ordinances and Legislation @ 5:00 p.m.
• Fall River Sewer Commission @5:30 pm
• Watuppa Water Board@6:30 PM
• Fall River Public Schools Evaluation Subcommittee @ 6:30 p.m.
• Board of Park Commissioners @5:30p.m.
• Fall River Housing Authority @4:30 p.m.

Welcome to Fall River Now. This is our weekly recap for the week ending October 2, 2026, where we cover the most significant local government news.

Topping the news this week, the Fall River Fire Department officially placed its new Engine 9 into service on Thursday. The department held a commissioning ceremony at the fire station on Eastern Avenue, where Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon spoke on the one-hundred-twenty-seven-year history of the engine, traditionally known as Pumper 9.

In city development, the Fall River Planning Board met on Wednesday and took action on local housing infrastructure. The board reviewed a request from AIS Real Estate Development Corporation for completion of the Highland Woods subdivision. Following advice from City Engineer Daniel Aguiar, the board denied the completion request.

Also on Wednesday, the Fall River Redevelopment Authority met to advance several local initiatives. The board authorized regular business and moved forward with ongoing redevelopment and infrastructure contracts across the city.

On the education front, the Fall River School Committee Policy Subcommittee convened Wednesday to review district policies. The panel advanced discussions on state-mandated compliance updates, operational guidelines, and the PROTECT Act, following public input from community members.

City finance and licensing boards also met this week. The Board of Assessors approved tax exemptions and an abatement during their Wednesday session, while the Licensing Board met earlier in the week to approve business licenses and one-day alcoholic beverage permits for local events.

In non-emergency city reports this week, residents filed only a couple of requests through three-one-one, noting a pothole on Meridian Street and raising concerns over the overnight brightness of a new electronic billboard near Route 24.

Looking ahead to next week, local government has a busy slate on Tuesday, October sixth. The Tax Increment Financing Board convenes in the morning, followed by evening meetings for the City Council Committee on Ordinances and Legislation, the Sewer Commission, and the Watuppa Water Board. The Board of Park Commissioners will meet on Wednesday, October seventh, followed by the Fall River Housing Authority on Thursday, October eighth.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Fall River Fire Department Commissions New Engine 9 on October 1, 2026
• Resident Reports Bright Electronic Billboard Near Route 24
• Fall River Redevelopment Authority Approves Contracts on September 30, 2026
• Fall River Planning Board Denies Subdivision Completion on September 30, 2026
• Fall River School Committee Policy Subcommittee Advances PROTECT Act on September 30, 2026
• Fall River Board of Assessors Approves Tax Exemptions and Abatement on September 30, 2026
• Pothole Reported Near Meridian Street in Fall River
• Fall River Licensing Board Approves Event Permits and Business Licenses on September 28, 2026
• Fall River Cultural Council Reviews Grant Guidelines and AI Rules on September 24, 2026

The Fall River Fire Department hosted an in-service ceremony at the Raynham/Eastwood Fire Station on Eastern Avenue to officially commission the new Engine 9 (known traditionally as Pumper 9). Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon spoke on the 127-year history of Pumper 9 in Fall River's Flint neighborhood, tracing its lineage back to horse-drawn apparatus operating from Bogle Hill in 1899. Chief Bacon recognized the efforts of the apparatus committee, previous department leadership, Community Development Director Michael Dion, and local and state delegations for securing the new apparatus.

Mayor Paul E. Coogan offered remarks thanking the firefighters for their ongoing dedication to public safety, specifically citing their recent response to contain a fire on Rodman and South Main Street, and praised the citywide teamwork involved in acquiring modern equipment. Former Fire Department Chaplain Father Michael Racine delivered opening prayers and blessed the apparatus with holy water, while also paying tribute to the late Monsignor Thomas Harrington.

Following traditional fire service customs, firefighters conducted a ceremonial wet-down using water transferred from the outgoing 2017 Pumper 9 to the new truck. Firefighters and attendees then conducted a ceremonial push-in of the apparatus into the station bay. Captain Paul Berube officially contacted fire alarm dispatch to place Engine 9 into active service, and the Honor Guard retired the colors to conclude the ceremony.

Topics discussed

• Welcome and Historical Overview of Engine 9
  Chief Jeffrey Bacon welcomed attendees and detailed the 127-year history of Pumper 9 in the Flint neighborhood, dating back to horse-drawn pumpers in 1899.
• Push-In Ceremony and Placing Engine 9 In Service
  Firefighters participated in the traditional push-in into the station bay, and Captain Paul Berube notified dispatch to officially place Engine 9 into service.
• Remarks from Mayor Paul E. Coogan
  Mayor Paul E. Coogan commended the department for recent firefighting efforts and thanked the state and local officials who supported funding for the new engine.
• Blessing and Wet-Down Ceremony
  Father Michael Racine offered a blessing and sprayed holy water on the apparatus, followed by the traditional wet-down using water from the 2017 engine.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Redevelopment Authority met on September 30, 2026, to conduct regular business and receive updates on ongoing redevelopment and infrastructure projects across the city. The board approved the open session minutes from August 26, 2026, and authorized the September warrant totaling $324,932.59. Staff provided operational updates regarding the 2025 financial audit, the mooring fields installation at City Pier, and progress on the temporary parking lot layout and fire alarm systems at 45 Anawan Street.

The Authority voted on several key contracts and change orders. For the Northfield Point project, the board approved Change Order No. 2 to DaSilva Landscaping and Construction in the amount of $44,700 for grading and material removal, as well as an additional change order not to exceed $3,000 for supplementary plantings and ryegrass seed mix. The board also approved binding a property insurance policy for the vacant buildings at 45 Anawan Street through Bay Coast Insurance for an annual premium of $7,314, following a detailed discussion on coinsurance and policy exclusions led by board member Ben Feitelberg. Additionally, the board awarded a $139,555 contract to GCG Associates for pre-construction engineering services along the Pleasant Street corridor under the Flint Urban Renewal Plan, funded by an MTTA grant.

Executive Director Sarah Page reported on progress in the North Main Street and Purchase Street district (NOMA), including securing a $40,000 planning and design grant, a recent community planter installation, and a planned banner maintenance memorandum of understanding with the city. Page also outlined the schedule for issuing a request for proposals (RFP) for administrative consultant services. Following open session, the board voted to enter executive session to discuss real estate transactions regarding 45 Anawan Street without reconvening in open session.

Topics discussed

• August 26, 2026 Open Session Minutes
  Review and approval of the previous meeting's open session minutes.
• Approve the open session minutes from the August 26, 2026 meeting. — approved
  Approve the open session minutes from the August 26, 2026 meeting.
• September Financial Warrant
  Review and authorization of expenditures totaling $324,932.59 for September 2026.
• Approve the September warrant in the amount of $324,932.59. — approved
  Approve the September warrant in the amount of $324,932.59.
• Fiscal Year 2025 Audit Progress
  Discussion on auditor inquiries and timeline for completion pending the Retirement Board's report.
• Approve Change Order No. 2 to DaSilva Landscaping and Construction in the amount of $44,700 for gravel, material removal, and grading at Northfield Point. — approved
  Approve Change Order No. 2 to DaSilva Landscaping and Construction in the amount of $44,700 for gravel, material removal, and grading at Northfield Point.
• Northfield Point Park Construction and Change Orders
  Status of site preparation, plantings, storm impact, and approvals of two change orders for grading and vegetation stabilization.
• Approve a change order not to exceed $3,000 for DaSilva Landscaping and Construction for additional plantings and ryegrass seed mix at Northfield Point. — approved
  Approve a change order not to exceed $3,000 for DaSilva Landscaping and Construction for additional plantings and ryegrass seed mix at Northfield Point.
• City Pier Mooring Fields and Dinghy Dock
  Update on shop drawings, pile driving, fabrication, and environmental restrictions related to winter flounder spawning.
• Vacant Building Property Insurance Proposal
  Deliberation on cash value property insurance coverage, exclusions, and coinsurance terms for the 45 Anawan Street buildings.
• Authorize the Executive Director to purchase property insurance for buildings at 45 Anawan Street through Bay Coast Insurance for an annual premium of $7,314. — approved
  Authorize the Executive Director to purchase property insurance for buildings at 45 Anawan Street through Bay Coast Insurance for an annual premium of $7,314.
• Flint Urban Renewal Plan Environmental Review
  Update on the Notice of Project Change and regulatory review under state environmental procedures.
• Pleasant Street Pre-Construction Engineering Contract
  Award of engineering design and bid preparation services to GCG Associates funded by grant money.
• 45 Anawan Street Temporary Parking and Utilities
  Discussion of parking configuration, striping, wheelchair accessible spaces, Liberty Gas access, and fire alarm requirements.
• Approve agreement with GCG Associates in the amount of $139,555 for pre-construction engineering activities along Pleasant Street. — approved
  Approve agreement with GCG Associates in the amount of $139,555 for pre-construction engineering activities along Pleasant Street.
• NOMA District Placemaking and Grant Award
  Receipt of a $40,000 design grant, banner program coordination with the city, and planter installations on Purchase Street.
• Administrative Consultant RFP Procurement
  Review of the procurement schedule to re-bid administrative consultant services for a 3-year term.
• Executive Session — Real Estate Negotiations
  Vote to convene in executive session to discuss property transaction strategy for 45 Anawan Street.
• Enter into executive session to approve executive session minutes from August 26, 2026, and discuss real estate strategy for 45 Anawan Street, without returning to open session. — passed
  Enter into executive session to approve executive session minutes from August 26, 2026, and discuss real estate strategy for 45 Anawan Street, without returning to open session.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Planning Board met on September 30, 2026, to address two development items. The board reviewed a request for completion for the Highland Woods subdivision submitted by AIS Real Estate Development Corp. City Engineer Daniel Aguiar advised that while physical construction appeared complete, the Department of Community Utilities required updated as-built drawings demonstrating conformance, including dimension clarifications, drainage pipe locations, and easement conveyance. Following Aguiar's recommendation, the board voted unanimously to deny the completion request for the time being, agreeing to hold an interim technical review meeting with the developer's engineer on October 6 and reconsider surety reduction and project completion at their next regular meeting.

The board also considered a Form A (Approval Not Required) plan of land (File #26-1686) submitted by Madison FR Properties LLC for 420 and 594 Airport Road (Map Z-3, Lots 0008 and 0024). Aguiar explained that the plan involved a lot-line adjustment allowing Invigen at 594 Airport Road to acquire a vacant warehouse and additional parking from 420 Airport Road, with no new lots created and full compliance with frontage, setback, and area requirements following Land Court review. The board voted unanimously to endorse the Form A plan before adjourning.

Topics discussed

• Highland Woods Subdivision Completion and Surety
  City Engineer Daniel Aguiar reviewed outstanding as-built drawing issues and easement requirements with developer representatives Ken Steen and Ian Steen, recommending denial of completion pending a technical review meeting and subsequent surety reduction review.
• Motion to deny the request for completion for the Highland Woods subdivision until outstanding comments and as-built documents are addressed — denied
  Motion to deny the request for completion for the Highland Woods subdivision until outstanding comments and as-built documents are addressed
• Motion to approve and endorse the Form A ANR plan for 420 and 594 Airport Road (File #26-1686) — approved
  Motion to approve and endorse the Form A ANR plan for 420 and 594 Airport Road (File #26-1686)
• Form A Endorsement: 420 and 594 Airport Road (File #26-1686)
  City Engineer Daniel Aguiar presented an ANR plan adjusting lot lines between 420 and 594 Airport Road for Madison FR Properties LLC and Invigen, noting full Land Court review and zoning conformance.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River School Committee Policy Subcommittee met on September 30, 2026, to discuss several district policies, including state-mandated compliance updates, operational guidelines, and committee communications. During citizen input, Keith Michon, President of the Fall River Educators Association, spoke in favor of adopting the PROTECT Act policy to ensure student and family safety regarding civil law enforcement and advocated for superintendent discretion on work-from-home options. The subcommittee voted to refer the PROTECT Act policy to the full School Committee with a recommendation to consider waiving the first reading.

Subcommittee members and district administration discussed the upcoming full policy manual overhaul with the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC), scheduled to begin monthly two-hour review sessions in November once missing policy updates are integrated. Following a discussion on the district's Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan, the subcommittee voted to table the item so the administration could present the formal policy alongside clarification regarding language on students with disabilities. Chief Financial Officer Kevin Almeida also presented a review of cash handling and electronic transaction procedures across school buildings, emphasizing the need for standardized collection, school safes, and centralized software integrations such as ParentSquare.

Finally, the subcommittee addressed policies regarding superintendent-to-committee communications and telework. The subcommittee voted to refer the proposed Superintendent-School Committee Communications Policy to the full committee. The proposed Work From Home Policy was also referred to the full School Committee, with no recommendation on adoption, to allow the entire body to deliberate on administrative discretion and oversight.

Topics discussed

• PROTECT Act Policy (Interacting with Civil Law Enforcement)
  Discussion of state legislation requiring school districts to adopt policies requiring judicial warrants before permitting civil law enforcement or federal immigration enforcement on school grounds.
• Motion to refer the PROTECT Act policy to the full School Committee with a recommendation to consider waiving the first reading — passed
  Motion to refer the PROTECT Act policy to the full School Committee with a recommendation to consider waiving the first reading
• MASC Comprehensive Policy Manual Review
  Discussion of gathering missing policy amendments from past committee minutes to provide MASC with an updated manual ahead of monthly review meetings.
• Superintendent-School Committee Communications Policy
  Proposal to create a formal policy framework governing notification protocols and reporting between the administration and the committee.
• Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan
  Review of the district's bullying plan update, survey data, and concerns regarding language on social skills for students with disabilities.
• Motion to table the bullying item to bring back the specific policy rather than the administrative plan — tabled
  Motion to table the bullying item to bring back the specific policy rather than the administrative plan
• District Cash Handling and Payment Systems
  Assessment of cash collection across school activities and exploring cashless systems and ParentSquare integration for fees and purchases.
• Motion to refer the Superintendent-School Committee Communications Policy to the full School Committee — passed
  Motion to refer the Superintendent-School Committee Communications Policy to the full School Committee
• Motion to refer the Work From Home Policy to the full School Committee with no recommendation on adoption — passed
  Motion to refer the Work From Home Policy to the full School Committee with no recommendation on adoption
• Employee Work From Home Policy
  Deliberation over establishing a formalized work-from-home policy versus leaving remote work arrangements to the discretion of the superintendent.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Board of Assessors convened on September 30, 2026, with Chairman Richard Gonsalves, Nancy L. Hinote, and Richard B. Wolfson in attendance. The board reviewed and signed minutes from the June 17, 2026, and August 24, 2026 meetings, as well as invoice proof lists and monthly reports before voting unanimously to enter executive session at 10:06 a.m. to discuss abatements, exemptions, and Appellate Tax Board matters.

Upon returning to open session at 10:35 a.m., the board voted 3-0 to approve Fiscal Year 2026 statutory exemptions numbered 41 through 52 and approved FY2026 supplemental bill of abatement number 1. The board also authorized and signed a Department of Revenue Gateway letter of authorization for Dan Lane, as well as motor vehicle warrant commitment number 5.

Under unanticipated business, the board signed County of Bristol real estate tax documents totaling $801,140.25 and signed billing sheets for municipal rental properties for boathouses along the water at the request of the tax collector. The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., and the meeting adjourned at 10:39 a.m.

Topics discussed

• Approval of Meeting Minutes
  Review and signing of open and executive session minutes from June 17, 2026, and August 24, 2026.
• Invoice Proof Lists and Monthly Report
  Board members reviewed and signed three invoice proof lists and monthly reporting documents.
• Executive Session
  The board entered executive session under Massachusetts General Laws to review exemptions, abatements, and ATB cases.
• Motion to enter executive session to discuss abatements, exemptions, and ATB matters pursuant to GL c. 30A, § 21(a)(3), GL c. 30A, § 21(a)(7), and GL c. 59, § 60 — approved
  Motion to enter executive session to discuss abatements, exemptions, and ATB matters pursuant to GL c. 30A, § 21(a)(3), GL c. 30A, § 21(a)(7), and GL c. 59, § 60
• Motion to return to open session — approved
  Motion to return to open session
• FY26 Statutory Exemptions and Abatements
  The board approved FY2026 statutory exemptions numbers 41 through 52 and supplemental abatement bill number 1.
• Motion to approve Fiscal Year 2026 statutory exemptions numbers 41 through 52 — approved
  Motion to approve Fiscal Year 2026 statutory exemptions numbers 41 through 52
• Motion to approve Fiscal Year 2026 supplemental bill of abatement number 1 — approved
  Motion to approve Fiscal Year 2026 supplemental bill of abatement number 1
• DOR Gateway Authorization
  The board signed a Department of Revenue authorization letter allowing Dan Lane to sign in the Gateway system.
• Motor Vehicle Warrant Commitment No. 5
  Board members signed and initialed motor vehicle warrant commitment number 5.
• County of Bristol Real Estate Taxes & Boathouse Rentals
  The board signed off on County of Bristol real estate taxes totaling $801,140.25 and city rental property billings for boathouses.
• Next Meeting Date
  The board scheduled its upcoming meeting for October 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
• Motion to adjourn the meeting — approved
  Motion to adjourn the meeting

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Licensing Board met on September 28, 2026, with Chairman Gregory Brilhante and board members Michael Perreira and Melanie C. Cordeiro present. The board heard several requests for one-day alcoholic beverage permits, approving applications for Holy Name School's annual Oktoberfest on October 17, St. Michael School's back-to-school dinner on October 3, four brunch event dates for Taste of Paradise while their state license remains under review, and the City of Fall River's Children's Christmas Parade fundraiser concert at Bristol Community College on October 2. The board also ratified date changes for a previously approved permit for Taste of Paradise.

In business licensing, the board unanimously approved common victualler licenses for Power Up Nutrition at 903 Second Street and Sabor Latino Restaurant at 1858 Pleasant Street. An alteration of premises petition by Fournier's Auto Sales and Service, Inc. to expand vehicle capacity across properties at 605 Globe Street and 26 Kilburn Street was granted conditionally, pending a formal zoning determination letter from Director of Inspectional Services Glenn Hathaway.

Under old and new business, an application for The Tatty Restaurant Inc. at 236 Pleasant Street was tabled due to improper certified mail notification to abutters. The board concluded the meeting by establishing the 2027 license renewal schedule across various commercial and liquor license classes, adopting their 2027 meeting calendar, and approving meeting minutes from July 15, 2026, and August 19, 2026.

Topics discussed

• Approve one-day beer and wine permit for Holy Name School on October 17, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM — approved
  Approve one-day beer and wine permit for Holy Name School on October 17, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Approve one-day beer and wine permit for St. Michael School on October 3, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM — approved
  Approve one-day beer and wine permit for St. Michael School on October 3, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• One-Day Beer and Wine Permits
  The board reviewed and approved one-day beer and wine permits for school functions, community fundraisers, and Taste of Paradise brunch events.
• Approve amended one-day permits for Taste of Paradise for October 17, October 31, November 14, and November 28, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM — approved
  Approve amended one-day permits for Taste of Paradise for October 17, October 31, November 14, and November 28, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
• Ratify date amendment for Taste of Paradise one-day permit from September 5-6 to September 11-12, 2026 — approved
  Ratify date amendment for Taste of Paradise one-day permit from September 5-6 to September 11-12, 2026
• Approve common victualler license for Power Up Nutrition at 903 Second Street — approved
  Approve common victualler license for Power Up Nutrition at 903 Second Street
• Common Victualler Applications
  The board evaluated and approved common victualler licenses for Power Up Nutrition and Sabor Latino Restaurant.
• Approve common victualler license for Sabor Latino Restaurant at 1858 Pleasant Street — approved
  Approve common victualler license for Sabor Latino Restaurant at 1858 Pleasant Street
• Approve one-day beer and wine permit for the City of Fall River at Bristol Community College on October 2, 2026, until 10:00 PM — approved
  Approve one-day beer and wine permit for the City of Fall River at Bristol Community College on October 2, 2026, until 10:00 PM
• Fournier's Auto Sales Alteration of Premises and Zoning Compliance
  Discussion regarding whether the Kilburn Street parcel held proper zoning permissions to support an increase to 30 vehicles, resulting in a conditional approval pending written verification from Glenn Hathaway.
• Approve alteration of premises for Fournier's Auto Sales and Service, Inc. (605 Globe St / 26 Kilburn St) conditional on filing a zoning determination letter from the building inspector — approved
  Approve alteration of premises for Fournier's Auto Sales and Service, Inc. (605 Globe St / 26 Kilburn St) conditional on filing a zoning determination letter from the building inspector
• Table the application of The Tatty Restaurant Inc. (236 Pleasant Street) pending proper abutter certified mail receipts — tabled
  Table the application of The Tatty Restaurant Inc. (236 Pleasant Street) pending proper abutter certified mail receipts
• Abutter Notification Requirements for The Tatty Restaurant Inc.
  Discussion on statutory certified mail abutter notification procedures, resulting in tabling the application due to improper postal submission.
• 2027 Licensing Renewal Deadlines and Schedule
  The board set procedural deadlines for non-alcohol commercial licenses and various alcohol license categories for the 2027 renewal cycle.
• Approve 2027 license renewal schedules for non-alcohol commercial licenses (sent 10/1/26, file by 10/30/26, pickup after 12/10/26) and alcohol licenses (sent 10/30/26, file by 11/28/26, pickup after 12/10/26) — approved
  Approve 2027 license renewal schedules for non-alcohol commercial licenses (sent 10/1/26, file by 10/30/26, pickup after 12/10/26) and alcohol licenses (sent 10/30/26, file by 11/28/26, pickup after 12/10/26)
• 2027 Board Meeting Schedule and Prior Minutes
  Approval of the board's 2027 meeting dates and adoption of open session minutes from July 15, 2026, and August 19, 2026.
• Approve the Licensing Board 2027 meeting calendar — approved
  Approve the Licensing Board 2027 meeting calendar
• Approve Licensing Board meeting minutes from July 15, 2026, and August 19, 2026 — approved
  Approve Licensing Board meeting minutes from July 15, 2026, and August 19, 2026

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

Welcome to Fall River Now. Here's your look at the week ahead in Fall River city government.

The Licensing Board meets this evening, Monday at 5:00 PM. Members will take up a request from Jose S. Rosas to transfer a Club All Alcohol License for La Sociedad Privada LLC at 32 Sixth Street. The board will also consider common victualler applications for Power Up Nutrition on Second Street and Sabor Latino Restaurant on Pleasant Street, revisit old business involving The Taty Restaurant, and review several one-day event permits.

Wednesday features a full slate of municipal meetings. It starts at 8:30 AM with the Contributory Retirement Board. The board will review investment performance summaries, approve monthly disbursement warrants, and vote on a superannuation retirement application for Elizabeth Blakely from the School Department. Members will also address Section 91A termination and excess earner notices.

At 10:00 AM on Wednesday, the Board of Assessors gathers. The board will vote on statutory tax exemptions, review a supplemental abatement and Motor Vehicle Warrant Commitment Number 5, and discuss a Department of Revenue authorization letter allowing Dan Lane to sign in the state Gateway system. An executive session is also scheduled to discuss tax abatements, exemptions, and Appellate Tax Board cases.

Wednesday afternoon, the Fall River Redevelopment Authority convenes at 5:00 PM. The authority will review pre-construction proposals for the Pleasant Street and Flint Neighborhood Urban Renewal Plan and receive updates on the North Main Downtown Historic District. Members will also discuss site improvements, mooring fields, and a dinghy dock at 600 Davol Street, consider a Request for Proposals for redevelopment consultant services, and hold an executive session on a potential real estate transaction at 45 Anawan Street.

Also on Wednesday evening, the Fall River Planning Board holds a special meeting at 5:30 PM. The board has a single agenda item: discussing and potentially voting on a Request for Completion for the Highland Woods Subdivision.

Rounding out Wednesday, the Atlantis Charter School Board of Trustees meets, starting with a Finance Committee audit presentation at 4:40 PM. The full board takes over at 5:15 PM to review August financial statements, hear an operational update on MCAS results, and consider the re-appointment of Attorney Matthew F. Burke.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Licensing Board @ 5PM
• Contributory Retirement Board @8:30 A.M.
• Board of Assessors @ 10AM
• Fall River Redevelopment Authority@5:00 PM
• Atlantis Charter School Board of Trustees @ 5:15PM
• SPECIAL MEETING-Fall River Planning Board @5:30 PM

The Fall River Cultural Council held an informational grant workshop and community input meeting to review local guidelines, priorities, and procedural changes for the upcoming grant cycle. The Council emphasized that the strict submission deadline is October 15th at midnight, with funded projects required to take place between December 1, 2026, and December 31, 2027, and final award determinations expected by late January.

Key policy updates and requirements reviewed during the meeting included a new limit of one application per applicant, a requirement that organizations must have operated in their discipline for at least one year, and mandatory written confirmations or permits from venues and property owners (especially for public art and murals). Council members also discussed budget rules, noting that capital expenditure requests require matching funds and that while the Council does not fund transportation, rent, or meals directly, overhead costs may be documented to support stipend requests. The Council outlined a strict policy prohibiting generative artificial intelligence in final products and promotional materials, requiring any conceptual use to be disclosed in the application.

Additional procedures covered included the reimbursement process, which requires projects to be completed in full with receipts and proof of Mass Cultural Council acknowledgment submitted electronically. The Council concluded by detailing specific field trip grant rules for Fall River schools, offering up to $15 per ticket for one grade level per school without covering transportation or chaperone expenses.

Topics discussed

• Grant Application Deadlines and Review Timeline
  Discussion of the firm October 15th midnight grant deadline, the grant cycle window of December 1, 2026 to December 31, 2027, and the decision timeline concluding in late January.
• Local Priorities, Eligibility, and Application Guidelines
  Review of local funding priorities, preference for Fall River-based artists, the one-application-per-applicant limit, venue/permit written confirmation rules, and matching fund requirements for capital expenses.
• Policy on Generative AI Usage
  Discussion on Rule 13 regarding the requirement to disclose any generative AI use in the application and the prohibition of AI in final artistic projects and marketing materials.
• Reimbursement Procedures and Publicity Requirements
  Explanation of the post-project reimbursement process, submission of receipts matching award amounts via email, and mandatory council logo acknowledgment on promotional materials.
• School Field Trip Guidelines
  Presentation of specific grant rules for Fall River school field trips, including a $15 per student ticket cap, one application per grade level per school, and exclusion of transportation costs.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

Welcome to Fall River Now. This is our weekly recap for the week ending September 25, 2026, where we cover the most significant local government news.

Topping the news this week, the Fall River City Council approved a ten-million-dollar street improvement loan during its regular session on Tuesday, September 22. The vote followed a meeting of the Committee on Finance and a citizen input period where residents spoke on city solid waste policy and parking ticket enforcement procedures.

Also on Tuesday, the City Council Committee on Ordinances and Legislation advanced multiple traffic and parking measures. The committee approved its previous minutes, reviewed a slate of proposed handicap parking installations, and considered administrative code amendments.

In housing and land use, the Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals met on September 17 and approved a twenty-two-unit development on Rodman Street. Board Chair Joseph Pereira led the hearing alongside regular members John Frank the third and James C. Calkins, reviewing lot divisions, residential conversions, and special permits across the city.

Earlier in the week, the Fall River Community Preservation Committee met on Monday, September 21. The committee conducted eligibility hearings for new Community Preservation Act funding applications, reviewed project extension requests, and handled administrative matters.

Turning to neighborhood quality of life, city non-emergency logs recorded complaints regarding illegal dumping, including discarded bathroom fixtures left near Griffin Street.

Looking ahead to next week, multiple municipal boards have scheduled public sessions for Wednesday, September 30. The Fall River Contributory Retirement Board will meet at 8:30 a.m. at 21 Father DeValles Boulevard. The Board of Assessors meets at 10 a.m. in the City Council Hearing Room at Government Center. Later that evening at Government Center, the Fall River Redevelopment Authority convenes at 5 p.m., while the Planning Board holds a special meeting in the Atrium at 5:30 p.m.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Fall River City Council Committee Reviews Blight and Illegal Dumping on September 26, 2026
• Fall River City Council Approves $6.88 Million Parking Garage Loan and Confirms Ann O'Neil-Souza as City Administrator
• Fall River City Council Tables Solid Waste Ordinance, Sends $10M Street Loan to Finance
• Fall River City Council Approves $10 Million Street Improvement Loan on September 22, 2026
• Fall River Community Preservation Committee Advances Funding Applications on September 21, 2026
• Fall River City Council Committee Advances Traffic and Parking Measures on September 22, 2026
• Fall River Zoning Board Approves 22-Unit Rodman Street Development on September 17, 2026
• Illegal Dumping Reported on Griffin Street

The Fall River City Council Committee on Health and Environmental Affairs met to review municipal code enforcement practices regarding chronic nuisance properties and evaluate citywide cleanliness, maintenance, and illegal dumping enforcement efforts. Present were Committee Chair Michael G. Canuel and Councilor Christopher M. Peckham, Sr., while Councilor Linda M. Pereira was excused. After approving the minutes from the April 22 meeting, the committee convened with city administrators and department heads.

On the first major discussion item, Interim City Administrator Ann O'Neil-Souza, Minimum Housing Director Fausto Fiore, and Police Chief J.T. Hoar discussed the city's Building Blocks program, nuisance property enforcement protocols, and administrative warrants for blighted properties. Discussions referenced a recent fire at a tax-foreclosed property on South Main Street and vacant storefront conditions. The committee approved a motion requesting Corporation Counsel review whether the city can legally levy recurring fines against property owners who create extended sidewalk closures and safety fencing. Director Fiore also noted data and software tracking challenges within his department.

During the second discussion item, Director of City Operations Al Oliveira, Director of Community Maintenance Chris Hathaway, and DCM Compliance Officer Joe Kennedy presented updates on facility maintenance, park upkeep, pothole repairs, and litter abatement. Officials noted that DCM compliance officers issued nearly 1,300 citations between January and June, while the police department investigated 51 illegal dumping cases year-to-date with a 49 percent solve rate. Oliveira confirmed the DCM incinerator project remained on track for completion and reported that a contract was moving forward with Poulin for Central Fire Station improvements. Both agenda items were tabled following discussions.

Topics discussed

• Adopt the minutes of the April 22nd Health and Environmental Affairs Committee meeting — approved
  Adopt the minutes of the April 22nd Health and Environmental Affairs Committee meeting
• Table Item 3 regarding code enforcement practices — tabled
  Table Item 3 regarding code enforcement practices
• Lift Item 3 from the table — approved
  Lift Item 3 from the table
• Code Enforcement and Nuisance Properties
  Review of the Building Blocks program, minimum housing inspections, property maintenance nuisance ordinances, and administrative warrant procedures for problem properties.
• Legal Inquiry on Fining Prolonged Sidewalk Closures
  The committee moved to ask Corporation Counsel whether fines can legally be assessed to property owners whose safety barriers and scaffolding block public sidewalks for extended periods.
• Send a communication to Corporation Counsel to inquire whether the city can legally issue fines to property owners who force long-term sidewalk closures due to safety fencing or disrepair — approved
  Send a communication to Corporation Counsel to inquire whether the city can legally issue fines to property owners who force long-term sidewalk closures due to safety fencing or disrepair
• Inspectional Services Software and Citation Tracking
  Discussion regarding outdated Access database systems and the need for updated software to better track minimum housing code violations and fine collections.
• Table Item 2 regarding cleanliness, maintenance, and enforcement efforts — tabled
  Table Item 2 regarding cleanliness, maintenance, and enforcement efforts
• City Maintenance, Park Cleanliness, and Illegal Dumping
  Updates on daily DCM maintenance staffing, park trash barrel pickups, pothole patching routes, summer clean-up crews, and illegal dumping investigation statistics.
• Municipal Facility Projects and Central Fire Station Bid
  Updates on closeout of ARPA-funded DCM incinerator work, potential future use of the Pine Street veteran facility, and awarding a Central Fire Station repair bid to Poulin.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River City Council met on September 22, 2026, opening with the Committee on Finance before proceeding to the regular City Council session. During citizen input, residents spoke on solid waste policy and parking ticket enforcement procedures. The Committee on Finance extensively discussed two major initiatives: a $10 million loan order for street improvements across the city and a comprehensive strategy regarding solid waste, cart inventory, and potential fee structures. Director of Engineering and Planning Daniel Aguiar explained that the street loan would allow targeted repairs and milling projects outside rigid Chapter 90 constraints, spending roughly $2 million annually over five years.

The council also reviewed the Q4 FY2026 financial report presented by CFO Emily Arpke, examining encumbrances, snow removal deficits, and the employer health trust fund's cash timing issues. In addition, the council streamlined the policy for retaining outside legal counsel, voting to require a simple majority vote by the full council within authorized budget limits. Later during the regular session, the council enacted the $10 million street improvement loan order (8-1), adopted a revised outside legal counsel policy (8-1), passed an appropriation of $586,600 for PEG access and cable channels (8-1), approved the state election warrant, and advanced several traffic, parking, and ordinance measures.

Topics discussed

• Citizen Concerns on Multi-Family Trash Policy and Fines
  Tiberio Sardina expressed frustration over municipal fines, vehicle towing, and proposed solid waste exclusions targeting 5- and 6-family residences.
• Parking Enforcement Citation Procedures
  Ryan Dart raised issues regarding parking ticket citation appeals, administrative procedures, and communications with Corporation Counsel.
• $10 Million Street Infrastructure Loan Order
  Daniel Aguiar detailed a planned $10 million borrowing program to supplement Chapter 90 funding for roadway repairs, milling, overlay, and sidewalk projects over five years.
• Motion to table the resolution on solid waste and recycling carts in the Committee on Finance — tabled
  Motion to table the resolution on solid waste and recycling carts in the Committee on Finance
• Solid Waste Cart Management and Disposal Cost Reduction
  Discussion led by Special Counsel Matthew Thomas and Director Chris Hathaway regarding uninventoried trash carts, a proposed $200,000 tote audit with Rehrig, and potential universal flat trash fees.
• FY 2026 Q4 Financial Budget Review
  CFO Emily Arpke reviewed year-end encumbrances, snow and ice deficits of $3.3 million, and timing delays in employer trust fund health insurance reimbursements.
• Motion to amend the outside legal counsel policy to require a majority vote of full council not to exceed authorized budget — passed
  Motion to amend the outside legal counsel policy to require a majority vote of full council not to exceed authorized budget
• Motion to adopt the warrant for the state election to be held on November 3, 2026 — adopted
  Motion to adopt the warrant for the state election to be held on November 3, 2026
• Nuisance Property Ordinance Review
  Councilors Raposo and Canuel sponsored a resolution directing the Ordinance Committee to review Chapter 10 nuisance property rules with police and housing officials.
• Motion to adopt resolution regarding review of nuisance properties ordinance — adopted
  Motion to adopt resolution regarding review of nuisance properties ordinance
• Motion to approve invoice from Roselli, Clark & Associates for FY26 audit — approved
  Motion to approve invoice from Roselli, Clark & Associates for FY26 audit
• Motion to approve application for hanging election banners over public ways — approved
  Motion to approve application for hanging election banners over public ways
• PEG Access Cable Funding Appropriation
  Council approved a $586,600 appropriation for PEG access cable television channels following confirmation from the Department of Revenue.
• Motion to lift PEG access appropriation of $586,600 from the table — passed
  Motion to lift PEG access appropriation of $586,600 from the table
• Motion to adopt appropriation order of $586,600 for PEG access and cable channels — adopted
  Motion to adopt appropriation order of $586,600 for PEG access and cable channels
• Roll call vote on motion to lift proposed solid waste ordinance from the table — failed
  Roll call vote on motion to lift proposed solid waste ordinance from the table
• Motion to refer the $10 million street improvement loan order to the full City Council from the Committee on Finance — passed
  Motion to refer the $10 million street improvement loan order to the full City Council from the Committee on Finance
• Outside Legal Counsel Policy Revision
  Council debated procedural requirements for hiring outside legal counsel, agreeing to amend the policy to a simple majority vote within budget limits.
• Motion to adopt the outside legal counsel policy as amended in Committee on Finance and refer to full council — passed
  Motion to adopt the outside legal counsel policy as amended in Committee on Finance and refer to full council
• Roll call vote to adopt the $10 million loan order for street improvements — passed
  Roll call vote to adopt the $10 million loan order for street improvements
• Motion to adopt the revised outside legal counsel policy in full City Council — adopted
  Motion to adopt the revised outside legal counsel policy in full City Council
• Motion to adopt emergency preamble and pass handicap parking ordinance through all readings — passed
  Motion to adopt emergency preamble and pass handicap parking ordinance through all readings

The Fall River Community Preservation Committee met on September 21, 2026, to review project extension requests and conduct eligibility hearings for proposed Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding applications. During administrative matters, the committee accepted the resignation of longtime member Jim Hornsby and approved meeting minutes from the annual meeting and the August 17, 2026 meeting. The committee also received public input from a resident speaking in support of the Bernardo Boxing roof preservation project at the former CYO building.

The committee addressed extension requests from past award recipients. An extension request from the Greater Fall River Art Association was unanimously rejected due to ongoing project delays, lack of current architectural plans, and pricing changes since the original award, with members advising the organization to resolve outstanding invoices and submit a fresh application. Conversely, the committee unanimously approved two-year extensions for the Fall River Water Department's North Watuppa Pond seawall study and historical document archiving projects.

The remainder of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing eligibility for numerous new funding applications spanning historic preservation, recreation, and community housing. Applications advancing to the full application stage included roof and masonry restorations for several historic religious and community structures (Bernardo Boxing, Little Theatre of Fall River, Children's Museum, Lafayette-Durfee House, First Congregational Church, St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Family Service Association, Christ the Rock Church, and Bethel AME Church). The committee also approved eligibility for park and recreational improvements (Maplewood Park lighting and dugouts, Kennedy Park walkways, Abbott Court playground funding, the Marion Institute's school garden program, and a proposed BMX pump track at Woodland/Britland Park) as well as the Academica Building housing project elevator.

Topics discussed

• Adjourn the Community Preservation Committee meeting — approved
  Adjourn the Community Preservation Committee meeting
• Citizen Input: Bernardo Boxing CYO Building Support
  Resident Carrie Rivers spoke in support of Aaron and Samantha Bernardo's grant application to replace the roof at the former CYO building used for youth boxing and tutoring programs.
• Approve minutes from the Annual Meeting — approved
  Approve minutes from the Annual Meeting
• Approve regular meeting minutes from August 17, 2026 — approved
  Approve regular meeting minutes from August 17, 2026
• Greater Fall River Art Association Grant Extension
  Discussion regarding delays, contractor payments, and historic drawings for the Charles M. Cole House project; the committee voted to deny the extension.
• Reject the grant extension request for the Greater Fall River Art Association — passed
  Reject the grant extension request for the Greater Fall River Art Association
• Approve a two-year extension for the Fall River Water Department North Watuppa Pond seawall study — approved
  Approve a two-year extension for the Fall River Water Department North Watuppa Pond seawall study
• Approve a two-year extension for the Fall River Water Department historical documents archiving project — approved
  Approve a two-year extension for the Fall River Water Department historical documents archiving project
• Fall River Water Department Project Extensions
  Request for two-year extensions for the North Watuppa Pond seawall study and historical document digitization projects.
• Approve funding eligibility for Bernardo Boxing Roof Project under Historic Preservation — approved
  Approve funding eligibility for Bernardo Boxing Roof Project under Historic Preservation
• Eligibility: Bernardo Boxing Roof Project
  Proposal seeking $84,381 under Historic Preservation to replace the failing roof on the historic former CYO building on Anawan Street.
• Approve funding eligibility for Little Theatre of Fall River Masonry Restoration under Historic Preservation — approved
  Approve funding eligibility for Little Theatre of Fall River Masonry Restoration under Historic Preservation
• Approve funding eligibility for Maplewood Park Field Lighting and Walkways under Recreation — approved
  Approve funding eligibility for Maplewood Park Field Lighting and Walkways under Recreation
• Eligibility: Little Theatre of Fall River Masonry Restoration
  Application requesting $78,000 toward a $93,000 exterior brick repointing and sealing project at the historic fire barn on Prospect Street.
• Approve funding eligibility for Fall River Children's Museum Southwest Tower Restoration under Historic Preservation — approved
  Approve funding eligibility for Fall River Children's Museum Southwest Tower Restoration under Historic Preservation
• Approve funding eligibility for Lafayette-Durfee House Repairs under Historic Preservation — approved
  Approve funding eligibility for Lafayette-Durfee House Repairs under Historic Preservation
• Approve funding eligibility for St. Luke's Episcopal Church Bell Tower Restoration under Historic Preservation — approved
  Approve funding eligibility for St. Luke's Episcopal Church Bell Tower Restoration under Historic Preservation
• Approve funding eligibility for Abbott Court Playground additional funding under Recreation — approved
  Approve funding eligibility for Abbott Court Playground additional funding under Recreation
• Approve funding eligibility for Bethel AME Church Structural Repairs and Accessibility under Historic Preservation — approved
  Approve funding eligibility for Bethel AME Church Structural Repairs and Accessibility under Historic Preservation
• Approve funding eligibility for Marion Institute Grow Education Gardens under Recreation — approved
  Approve funding eligibility for Marion Institute Grow Education Gardens under Recreation

The Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals met on September 17, 2026, to hear several petitions involving lot divisions, residential conversions, and special permits across the city. Chair Joseph Pereira presided alongside regular board members John Frank III, James C. Calkins, Daniel D. Dupere, and Ricky P. Sahady, with Director of Engineering and Planning Daniel Aguiar in attendance. The board announced at the outset that scheduled executive session matters would not take place.

The board tabled three applications to its October 15, 2026 meeting to allow petitioners time to provide additional documentation. These included a request for 1889 Durfee Street to convert a commercial building's second floor into an apartment, where the board required clear documentation regarding a historical easement for access and parking; a petition for 141–145 Hanover Street to divide a lot containing two three-family dwellings, which required revised plans detailing overlapping access and parking easements; and an application by the Animal Rescue League of Fall River at 452–474 Durfee Street to separate a two-family dwelling from the animal shelter facility, pending clarification of on-site parking and historical zoning relief.

Two matters were approved unanimously by 5-0 votes. The board approved a special permit for 71–73 Dover Street to divide a parcel with two existing three-family dwellings onto separate lots under Section 86-423B, subject to standard conditions. The board also granted a special permit and loading zone waiver for 698 Rodman Street to allow the construction of a six-story, 22-unit residential building with ground-level parking in a Commercial Mill District, despite concerns raised by neighborhood abutters regarding building height, privacy, and traffic.

Topics discussed

• 1889 Durfee Street - Residential Conversion and Parking Easement
  Discussion regarding an application to create a second-floor residential apartment and whether a 1916 easement through neighboring church property permits off-street parking.
• Motion to approve the meeting minutes from August 20, 2026 — approved
  Motion to approve the meeting minutes from August 20, 2026
• Motion to table the petition for 1889 Durfee Street to the October 15, 2026 meeting pending submission of the recorded easement language — tabled
  Motion to table the petition for 1889 Durfee Street to the October 15, 2026 meeting pending submission of the recorded easement language
• 141-145 Hanover Street - Lot Division and Easement Layout
  Review of a proposed lot split between two pre-1950 three-family dwellings, focusing on parking retention, emergency access, and overlapping maintenance easements.
• Motion to approve the Section 86-423B special permit to divide 71-73 Dover Street into two lots with standard conditions — approved
  Motion to approve the Section 86-423B special permit to divide 71-73 Dover Street into two lots with standard conditions
• 71-73 Dover Street - Division of Existing Three-Family Dwellings
  Consideration of a Section 86-423B special permit to place two pre-existing three-family homes onto separate individual lots with utility separation and access easements.
• Motion to table the petition for 141 and 145 Hanover Street to October 15, 2026 to revise plans showing parking and detailed easement agreements — tabled
  Motion to table the petition for 141 and 145 Hanover Street to October 15, 2026 to revise plans showing parking and detailed easement agreements
• 452-474 Durfee Street - Animal Rescue League Lot Separation
  Proposal by the Animal Rescue League to separate a residential two-family dwelling from its shelter facility, requiring examination of existing parking spaces and zoning history.
• Motion to table the petition for 474 and 452 Durfee Street to October 15, 2026 for verification of parking spaces and title history — tabled
  Motion to table the petition for 474 and 452 Durfee Street to October 15, 2026 for verification of parking spaces and title history
• 698 Rodman Street - Six-Story Multi-Family Development
  Hearing on a proposed 22-unit residential apartment building in a Commercial Mill District, addressing zoning compliance, loading space waivers, and abutter concerns over height and traffic.
• Motion to approve the special permit for multi-family residential use and waiver of loading space for 698 Rodman Street — approved
  Motion to approve the special permit for multi-family residential use and waiver of loading space for 698 Rodman Street
• Meeting Minutes Approval
  Voted approval of the minutes from the August 20, 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

Welcome to Fall River Now. Here's your look at the week ahead in Fall River city government.

Tuesday is the busiest day on the calendar, starting with the City Council Committee on Ordinances and Legislation at 5:00 p.m. Councilors will consider an ordinance amendment addressing the appointment, powers, duties, and term of the Chief of Police. They will also review overnight parking rules for commercial vehicles, a request from Corporation Counsel to remove the city code section on hiring outside legal counsel, and several traffic measures creating and removing designated handicapped spaces across the city.

The full City Council meets Tuesday evening at 6:00 p.m. Headlining the docket is a proposed ten-million-dollar loan order to fund construction and improvements for city streets. The Council will also take up a tabled request from the Mayor to appropriate over 586 thousand dollars in cable access funds for FREDTV and FRCMedia, along with a resolution to study the costs and distribution of city trash and recycling carts. In addition, the agenda includes the Fourth Quarter budget report for Fiscal Year 2026, a revised policy from the Council President regarding outside legal counsel, and the official warrant for the upcoming November state election.

Tonight, the Community Preservation Committee meets at 6:00 p.m. The committee will hold eligibility hearings for projects seeking Community Preservation funding. Members will also vote on project extension requests from the Fall River Art Association and the Fall River Water Department, which is working on North Watuppa Pond seawalls and historic documents.

On Thursday, the City Council Committee on Health and Environmental Affairs meets at 5:30 p.m. The committee will sit down with the Director of Inspectional Services and administration officials to review code enforcement practices, along with ongoing cleanliness and maintenance efforts across the city.

Also on Thursday, the Cultural Council meets at 6:30 p.m. to host a grant writing workshop for the Fiscal Year 2027 grant cycle, outlining priorities and application guidelines for local cultural projects.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Community Preservation Committee @ 6:00 p.m.
• City Council Committee on Ordinances and Legislation @ 5:00 p.m.
• City Council Meetings @ 6:00 P.M.
• City Council Committee on Health and Environmental Affairs @ 5:30 p.m.
• Cultural Council @ 6:30 pm

Welcome to Fall River Now. This is our weekly recap for the week ending September 18, 2026, where we cover the most significant local government news.

Topping the news this week, the Fall River Housing Authority approved a security camera contract worth four hundred and sixty thousand dollars during its meeting on Monday. Commissioners also heard from a resident raising concerns about early-morning trash pickup noise in violation of city ordinances.

In education news, the Fall River School Committee met Wednesday to approve alternative education budgets. Interim Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith and district staff presented updates on start-of-the-year operations, enrollment trends, and staffing contracts.

At Government Center, the City Council Committee on Public Safety met Tuesday. Chaired by Councilor Christopher M. Peckham, Sr., along with Councilors Andrew J. Raposo and Michael G. Canuel, the committee reviewed proposals for installing automated external defibrillators in public parks and evaluated local emergency response plans.

Also this week, the Traffic Board approved curb cuts on Fenmore Street and for the Massachusetts Army National Guard, alongside reviews for residential handicap parking. The Historical Commission voted unanimously to support a restoration project at Park View, while the Conservation Commission tabled multiple filings during a brief session.

On the civic side, the city observed National POW/MIA Recognition Day on Friday with a memorial service at the veterans' monument park, featuring Mayor Paul E. Coogan and local clergy.

In neighborhood service requests, residents submitted reports this week regarding illegal trash dumping near Hargraves Street, a leaking roadway on Hughes Street, and a persistently flickering streetlight on Stevens Street.

Looking ahead to next week, the Community Preservation Committee meets Monday evening at Government Center, followed by a full meeting of the Fall River City Council on Tuesday night.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Fall River Observes National POW/MIA Recognition Day at Ceremony on September 18, 2026
• Fall River Traffic Board Approves Parking Changes and Curb Cuts on September 16, 2026
• Fall River Historical Commission Backs Park View Restoration on September 15, 2026
• Illegal Dumping Reported Near Hargraves Street
• Fall River School Committee Approves Alternative Education Budgets on September 16, 2026
• Fall River City Council Committee Reviews Park AEDs and Emergency Plans on September 15, 2026
• Fall River Housing Authority Approves $460,000 Security Camera Contract on September 14, 2026
• Fall River Conservation Commission Tables Multiple Filings on September 14, 2026
• Flickering Streetlight Reported Near Stevens Street
• Street Water Leak Reported Near Hughes Street

The Fall River School Committee met on September 16, 2026, to discuss start-of-the-year operations, enrollment trends, policy updates, alternative education restructuring, and district personnel and contracts. Interim Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith and staff presented an update on district enrollment (standing around 10,886 students across 17 buildings), noting enrollment dips in kindergarten and English Language Learners compared to previous years. The committee debated facilities progress, including safety and costs associated with playground construction at Henry Lord Community School and the newly unified Early Learning Center at Bishop Stang/Bishop Connolly.

Key actions included approving separate budget line breakdowns and cost centers for Evolve Academy ($1,874,156), Resiliency Preparatory Academy (RPA), and the Fall River Public School Virtual High School ($2,476,508 combined for RPA and Virtual), along with approximately $745,000 in identified potential savings. The committee also debated and approved revisions to the Durfee High School Athletic Handbook tightening academic eligibility, adopted an updated Attendance Policy while voting to reinstate the community Attendance Task Force, and approved job descriptions and postings for an Associate Director of Human Resources ($110,000 to $140,000 salary range).

Significant debate occurred regarding the governance structure of the Administrative Assistant/Executive Secretary to the School Committee. The committee voted 5-2 to waive policies GCE, GCF, GDE, and GDF to place direct hiring and day-to-day oversight under the School Committee, designating the Vice Chair as the primary supervisor point of contact. The committee also accepted various entitlement and competitive grants, approved district contracts including DocuSign, UAspire, and custodial suppliers, and recognized outgoing administrative assistant Deb Cabral before entering executive session.

Topics discussed

• MASC Conference Voting Delegate
  The committee unanimously voted to appoint Shanell J. Stewart as the voting delegate for the upcoming November MASC conference.
• Appoint Shanell J. Stewart as the voting delegate for the MASC conference — approved
  Appoint Shanell J. Stewart as the voting delegate for the MASC conference
• District Enrollment & Demographic Bubble
  Brian Michael Azak reported enrollment at 10,886 students, discussing a drop in ELL enrollment by approximately 500 students and a 5th-grade cohort bubble that will impact 6th-grade middle school staffing.
• Playground & Facility Upgrades
  COO Ken Pacheco updated the committee on the $800,000 Henry Lord playground project, the Early Learning Center playground paving/fencing, and grounds maintenance challenges.
• Alternative Education Restructuring & Budget
  Interim RPA Principal Rob Correa, staff, and CFO Aldo Petronio presented updates on Evolve Academy, RPA, and Virtual High School budgets, staffing models, and attendance re-engagement strategies.
• Approve five travel requests — approved
  Approve five travel requests
• Accept donations from Rep. Carole Fiola ($2,488.50), DonorsChoose ($565 and $236.60), and BayCoast Bank (10 Surface Pro devices) — approved
  Accept donations from Rep. Carole Fiola ($2,488.50), DonorsChoose ($565 and $236.60), and BayCoast Bank (10 Surface Pro devices)
• Acceptance of Educational Donations
  The committee formally accepted donations including $2,488.50 from Rep. Carole Fiola for CTE Prom/beauty services, DonorsChoose classroom supplies, and 10 Microsoft Surface Pro laptops from BayCoast Bank.
• Approve selection and appointment of John Kobianchi as school nurse — approved
  Approve selection and appointment of John Kobianchi as school nurse
• Approve use of Durfee High School Nagel Auditorium for Christmas concert — approved
  Approve use of Durfee High School Nagel Auditorium for Christmas concert
• Approve budget line breakdown as amended (relabeling savings to potential savings and ensuring 4 core teachers for virtual school) for Evolve Academy, RPA, and Virtual High School across 3 distinct cost centers — approved
  Approve budget line breakdown as amended (relabeling savings to potential savings and ensuring 4 core teachers for virtual school) for Evolve Academy, RPA, and Virtual High School across 3 distinct cost centers
• Approve Durfee High School Athletic Handbook update regarding credit recovery and seasonal eligibility — approved
  Approve Durfee High School Athletic Handbook update regarding credit recovery and seasonal eligibility
• Durfee High School Athletic Eligibility Standards
  Athletic Director and administration outlined handbook changes removing immediate credit recovery eligibility loopholes during active athletic seasons.
• Student Attendance Policy & Task Force Reinstatement
  Assistant Superintendent Amy Bronhardt detailed attendance updates and chronic absenteeism reductions; the committee voted to re-establish the district Attendance Task Force.
• Adopt amendment to reinstitute the district Attendance Task Force — approved
  Adopt amendment to reinstitute the district Attendance Task Force
• Approve updated Attendance Policy as amended — approved
  Approve updated Attendance Policy as amended
• Refer Public Comment Policy (7.5) back to Policy Subcommittee — referred
  Refer Public Comment Policy (7.5) back to Policy Subcommittee
• Approve Expense Reimbursement Policy (DKC) requiring annual CFO adjustments/manual updates — approved
  Approve Expense Reimbursement Policy (DKC) requiring annual CFO adjustments/manual updates
• Approve Destruction of Property Policy without the $500 minimum reporting threshold to record all vandalism — approved
  Approve Destruction of Property Policy without the $500 minimum reporting threshold to record all vandalism
• Vandalism & Damage Reporting Threshold
  The committee voted to amend the destruction of property policy to document all instances of vandali...

The Fall River City Council Committee on Public Safety met on September 15, 2026, chaired by Councilor Christopher M. Peckham, Sr., with Councilors Andrew J. Raposo and Michael G. Canuel present. The committee first addressed a resolution regarding the installation and maintenance of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in city-owned parks. Parks Director Darren Medeiros presented options ranging from outdoor heated, monitored Save Station kiosks costing several thousand dollars to providing units inside facilities used by active athletic leagues. Following discussions on liability, capital funding, and grant eligibility, the committee approved a motion requesting an inventory of active sports leagues from the Parks Director and a legal opinion from Corporation Counsel regarding municipal liability before tabling the matter.

The committee then reviewed the city's strategic Emergency Response Plan and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) protocols with public safety leadership, reflecting on operational lessons learned during a recent major blizzard. Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Director Rick Aguiar presented a completed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) manual and Emergency Response Plan addendum for the EOC. Key discussion points included communication redundancies, hardline phone needs, utilizing mobile command trailers, and establishing clear thresholds and mandates for department heads reporting to the EOC during declared states of emergency.

Finally, the committee received quarterly operational updates from the police, fire, and emergency medical services departments. Acting Police Chief J.T. Hoar reported on "Operation Restore the Row" in the Corky Row neighborhood, which resulted in 40 arrests, the ongoing hiring of 26 to 27 officers, and plans to strengthen enforcement of the city's nuisance property ordinance. Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon detailed 10 upcoming recruit hires, the delivery and impending in-service ceremony of Engine 9, supply chain delays on Ladder 4 from Spartan Fire Apparatus, new state sprinkler regulations resulting from the Gabriel House fire investigation, and the transition to PFAS-free turnout gear. EMS leadership also noted heavy summer event coverage and fleet challenges after three ambulances were damaged in collisions.

Topics discussed

• Adjourn the Public Safety Committee meeting. — passed
  Adjourn the Public Safety Committee meeting.
• Approve the minutes of the August 25, 2026 Public Safety Committee meeting. — approved
  Approve the minutes of the August 25, 2026 Public Safety Committee meeting.
• AED Installation in Municipal Parks
  Discussion on providing AEDs at city parks, focusing on costs of heated outdoor Save Station units, priority access for youth sports leagues, maintenance monitoring, and city liability.
• Request an updated list of active youth and adult leagues from the Parks Director and a legal opinion from Corporation Counsel regarding municipal liability for AED placement in parks. — passed
  Request an updated list of active youth and adult leagues from the Parks Director and a legal opinion from Corporation Counsel regarding municipal liability for AED placement in parks.
• Table Item 3 regarding park AEDs. — tabled
  Table Item 3 regarding park AEDs.
• Lift Item 4 regarding the Emergency Response Plan from the table. — passed
  Lift Item 4 regarding the Emergency Response Plan from the table.
• Emergency Operations Center Protocols and SOP
  Review of the EOC Standard Operating Procedure manual developed by EMA, focusing on phone line redundancies, tabletop training exercises, and unified command during severe weather emergencies.
• Table Item 4 regarding the Emergency Response Plan. — tabled
  Table Item 4 regarding the Emergency Response Plan.
• Table Item 5 following departmental updates. — tabled
  Table Item 5 following departmental updates.
• Lift Item 5 regarding quarterly public safety updates from the table. — passed
  Lift Item 5 regarding quarterly public safety updates from the table.
• Operation Restore the Row and Nuisance Property Enforcement
  Acting Police Chief J.T. Hoar reported on a multi-agency crackdown in Corky Row yielding 40 arrests, and discussed partnering with code enforcement to hold absentee landlords accountable under the nuisance ordinance.
• Fire Department Equipment, Facilities, and Safety Standards
  Chief Jeffrey Bacon provided updates on new recruit classes, the arrival of Engine 9, manufacturer delays on Ladder 4, new statewide sprinkler recall regulations, and transitioning to Morning Pride PFAS-free turnout gear.
• EMS Operations and Ambulance Fleet Status
  EMS leadership reviewed summer special event deployments, winter storm preparedness planning, and fleet repair challenges following three ambulance collisions.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Housing Authority held a regular meeting on September 14, 2026. During resident input, Bob Tavares of Cape Dune Park raised concerns regarding Republic Services waste trucks operating as early as 6:00 a.m. in violation of the city's noise ordinance, as well as questions about seasonal air conditioner removal and billing fees. The board noted that formal complaints and fines would be pursued for ordinance violations and clarified the spread-out billing schedule for air conditioning.

The Executive Director provided departmental updates, noting the hiring of three management clerks, one plumber, and a temporary Clerk of the Works for the upcoming federalization of Bishop Ead and Corky Rowe. The director also announced upcoming flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinics, rescheduled the October board meeting to October 8, and led a moment of silence for deceased 23-year maintenance employee Ed Ferreira.

In business actions, the board approved several major procurement and contract items. These included awarding a $460,000 contract to American Electrical Construction, Inc. for security camera installation at Maple Gardens/Maple Bottoms, approving a certificate of completion for MV Electrical Contractors, Inc. for $218,865 regarding smoke detector replacements at Father Diaferio Village, and awarding 6-month supply contracts for electrical and plumbing inventory not to exceed $50,000 per vendor.

Topics discussed

• Noise Complaints and AC Unit Policy (Resident Input)
  Discussion regarding early morning trash collection noise by Republic Services in violation of city ordinance, and clarification of seasonal air conditioner fees and removal policies.
• Approve the minutes of the previous regular meeting. — approved
  Approve the minutes of the previous regular meeting.
• Approve the bills and communications vouchers. — approved
  Approve the bills and communications vouchers.
• Accept the management reports. — approved
  Accept the management reports.
• Approve the monthly financial reports for July 2026. — approved
  Approve the monthly financial reports for July 2026.
• Executive Director Monthly Report and Staff Recognition
  Updates on personnel hires, upcoming health clinics, October meeting scheduling, and a moment of silence for late employee Ed Ferreira.
• Security Camera Installation Contract Award (Maple Gardens)
  Award of a $460,000 contract to American Electrical Construction, Inc. for security camera installation at Maple Gardens.
• Award the security camera installation project contract at Maple Gardens to American Electrical Construction, Inc. in the amount of $460,000. — approved
  Award the security camera installation project contract at Maple Gardens to American Electrical Construction, Inc. in the amount of $460,000.
• Father Diaferio Village Smoke Detector Project Completion
  Approval of the final completion certificate for MV Electrical Contractors, Inc. totaling $218,865.
• Approve the certificate of completion consolidated for smoke detector replacements at Father Diaferio Village to MV Electrical Contractors, Inc. in the final amount of $218,865. — approved
  Approve the certificate of completion consolidated for smoke detector replacements at Father Diaferio Village to MV Electrical Contractors, Inc. in the final amount of $218,865.
• Electrical and Plumbing Inventory Supply Contracts
  Procurement awards for 6-month contracts for electrical supplies and plumbing supplies, capped at $50,000 per vendor.
• Award a 6-month electrical inventory supply contract to Electrical Wholesalers, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $50,000. — approved
  Award a 6-month electrical inventory supply contract to Electrical Wholesalers, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $50,000.
• Award 6-month plumbing supply contracts to Winsupply of Fall River, Plumbers' Supply Company, Supply New England, Seekonk Supply, Inc., and Republic Plumbing Supply in an amount not to exceed $50,000 each. — approved
  Award 6-month plumbing supply contracts to Winsupply of Fall River, Plumbers' Supply Company, Supply New England, Seekonk Supply, Inc., and Republic Plumbing Supply in an amount not to exceed $50,000 each.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Conservation Commission held a brief regular meeting on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 1 Government Center. Present were Commission members Luis Ferreira, John Brandt, James Cusick, and Drew Carline, with Christopher Boyle and Timothy McCoy noted absent. Recording Secretary Patti Aguiar was also present.

Due to a lack of updates, the Commission reviewed multiple old business and Notice of Intent items to update their status. The Commission voted to table items 1 through 7, including tree planting updates on Bell Rock Road, discussions regarding fee structures and enforcement orders, and Notice of Intent filings for Weaver Cove Industrial Park LLC (SE-24-855), Liberty Utilities (SE-24-857), National Grid (SE-24-861), and McAllister Towing and Transportation (SE-24-875). Additionally, the Commission voted to remove from the agenda a Request for Certificate of Compliance (SE-24-207) for 4041 North Main Street until the original documents can be located.

To conclude the meeting, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the meeting minutes from August 3, 2026. With no citizen input submitted, the meeting was adjourned.

Topics discussed

• Bell Rock Road Tree Planting Update
  The Commission noted that there were no new updates regarding requested tree plantings on Bell Rock Road following an email from August 13th.
• Motion to table Old Business Items 1 through 7 — tabled
  Motion to table Old Business Items 1 through 7
• Review and Discussion of Adopting Fee Structures
  The Commission noted there were no new updates on adopting fee structures.
• Review of Outstanding Enforcement Orders
  The Commission noted no new updates regarding outstanding enforcement orders.
• Notice of Intent: SE-24-855 (Weaver Cove Industrial Park, LLC - New Street)
  Proposal for after-the-fact restoration of an area cleared of vegetation on New Street (Map T-2, Lot 001).
• Notice of Intent: SE-24-857 (Liberty Utilities / Spectrum Realty - 994 Jefferson Street)
  Proposal to install 222 feet of 4-inch carrier pipe with a 2-inch gas main via horizontal directional drilling on Jefferson Street.
• Notice of Intent: SE-24-861 (National Grid - Sky Road Substation to Somerset)
  Proposal for the separation of existing N12 and N13 transmission lines and paired structures within an existing right-of-way over the Taunton River.
• Notice of Intent: SE-24-875 (McAllister Towing and Transportation - 1 Shaw Street)
  Proposal to repair and replace a sheet pile bulkhead, elevate site portions, repair piers, install fendering systems, reinforce ballasts, dredge terminal basin, and improve shore power utilities.
• Request for Certificate of Compliance: SE-24-207 (James Vaillancourt - 4041 North Main Street)
  Request for a Certificate of Compliance for 4041 North Main Street (Map X-03-0042), which was removed from the agenda pending original records.
• Motion to remove Item 8 (Request for Certificate of Compliance SE-24-207 for 4041 North Main Street) from the agenda — passed
  Motion to remove Item 8 (Request for Certificate of Compliance SE-24-207 for 4041 North Main Street) from the agenda
• Approval of August 3 Minutes
  Vote to approve the minutes of the Conservation Commission meeting held on August 3, 2026.
• Motion to approve the meeting minutes from August 3, 2026 — approved
  Motion to approve the meeting minutes from August 3, 2026

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

Welcome to Fall River Now. Here's your look at the week ahead in Fall River city government.

Tonight at four-thirty, the Fall River Housing Authority board meets to consider major contract awards. The board will vote on awarding a four hundred sixty thousand dollar contract to American Electrical Construction for security cameras at Maple Gardens. Commissioners will also review a certificate of completion for two hundred eighteen thousand eight hundred sixty-five dollars with M-V Electrical Contractors for smoke detector work at Father Diaferio Village, along with several fifty thousand dollar procurement contracts for electrical and plumbing supplies.

Also tonight at five-thirty, the Conservation Commission takes up multiple notices of intent. Filings include Weaver's Cove Industrial Park for vegetation restoration on New Street, Liberty Utilities for horizontal directional drilling of gas lines on Jefferson Street, National Grid for transmission line monopoles over the Taunton River, and McAllister Towing for pier repairs and dredging on Shaw Street. The commission will also discuss a new fee structure and active enforcement orders.

At the same time tonight, the Greater Fall River Vocational School District MSBA School Building Committee meets at five-thirty. Members will receive construction updates and weigh prime contract change orders covering lockdown indicator lights, student parking lot revisions, flood contingency adjustments, and upgrades to track surfaces.

On Tuesday afternoon at twelve-thirty, the Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness group gathers to review recent events, crisis communication procedures, and budget priorities. They will follow up with the broader Coalition meeting at one-thirty to discuss regional public health emergencies and planning efforts.

Also Tuesday at one o'clock, the Southern Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization meets. The board will hold votes to endorse both the draft Southeastern Massachusetts Congestion Management Plan and the regional Food Access and Security in Transportation Plan.

Tuesday evening at five-thirty, the City Council Committee on Public Safety meets with city department heads. The committee will discuss a strategic emergency response plan, quarterly updates from police, fire, and emergency medical leadership, and a resolution to install automated external defibrillators in all city-owned parks.

At six o'clock Tuesday, the Historical Commission convenes. The agenda features a presentation by the Public Archaeology Laboratory on the proposed 40C historic district expansion, demolition notices involving the Redevelopment Authority and the Bedford Street Police Station, and repair discussions for Park View Apartments and Oak Grove Cemetery.

On Wednesday, regional health officials gather for the Southcoast Public Health Coalition at two o'clock to review performance standard survey data.

Wednesday at four o'clock, the Traffic Board will take up curb cut applications on Fenmore and Dwelly Streets, business loading zone requests on Fifth and Bedford Streets, and multiple petitions for new and rescinded residential handicap parking spaces across the city.

At five o'clock Wednesday, the Fall River Licensing Board meets to review one-day permits for city and school events, a common victualler license for Power Up Nutrition on Second Street, and an alcohol license transfer to La Sociedad Privada on Sixth Street.

On Thursday evening at five-thirty, the Zoning Board of Appeals meets. The board will hold executive sessions on appeals regarding Holy Name Church and Madison Street, followed by public hearings on a proposal by Rodman Street LLC for a six-story, twenty-two-unit apartment building, along with multiple lot division and variance petitions on Durfee, Hunter, and Dover Streets.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Fall River Housing Authority @4:30 PM
• Conservation Commission @5:30 PM
• Greater Fall River Vocational School District-MSBA School Building Committee @5:30 PM
• Southern Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization @1:00p.m.
• Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition @ 1:30PM
• City Council Committee on Public Safety @ 5:30 p.m.
• Historical Commission @6:00 PM
• Southcoast Public Health Coalition @ 2PM
• Traffic Board @4:00 p.m.
• Fall River Licensing Board @5:00 PM
• Zoning Board of Appeals @ 5:30pm

Welcome to Fall River Now. This is our weekly recap for the week ending September 11, 2026, where we cover the most significant local government news.

Topping the news, the Fall River City Council met Tuesday and once again tabled a five hundred eighty-six thousand dollar cable funding request during its regular session. Councilors also held a public hearing regarding utility pole petitions from National Grid and Verizon, an auto repair shop license, and a curb removal request.

In council committee action, the Committee on Public Works and Transportation voted to table an ongoing access and maintenance dispute regarding Arruda's Lane, following approval of its previous meeting minutes.

In education news, the School Committee's Facilities and Operations Subcommittee met this week, where Chief Operating Officer Ken Pacheco provided updates on capital projects, including the administration building window replacement. The Technology Subcommittee also gathered to review district software use, school opening infrastructure, administrative systems, and Yondr pouches.

At the board level, the Planning Board tabled a roadway proposal by Tiverton Investments on Spring Street while approving covenant releases for subdivisions. Meanwhile, the Commission on Disability elected new officers and tabled a three thousand dollar funding request presented by Diman Regional Vocational High School Superintendent-Director Brian Bentley. The Library Board of Trustees also met to handle operational statistics and administrative reporting.

Also this week, Fall River marked the twenty-fifth anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks with its annual Rite of Reflection ceremony on the grounds of the Battleship Massachusetts, featuring the traditional striking of the four fives.

In neighborhood maintenance, resident non-emergency reports were light this week. Requests focused primarily on park upkeep, including multiple calls for fresh paint and mulch at playgrounds near Locust and Seabury streets, dead tree branches at Ruggles Park, and a single report of illegal dumping on Hargraves Street.

Looking ahead to next week, municipal meetings pick up on Monday with the Greater Fall River Voc-Tech School Building Committee, the Housing Authority, and the Conservation Commission. On Tuesday, the Southern Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Bristol County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition, and the Historical Commission are all scheduled to meet, followed by the Traffic Board on Wednesday.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Fall River Commemorates 25th 9/11 Anniversary at Battleship Massachusetts on September 11, 2026
• Fall River School Committee Technology Panel Reviews Software and Yondr Pouches on September 10, 2026
• Fall River School Committee Subcommittee Reviews Facility Projects on September 9, 2026
• Fall River Planning Board Tables Spring Street Proposal, Releases Subdivision Covenants on September 9, 2026
• Fall River Commission on Disability Tables Diman Funding Request, Elects Officers on September 9, 2026
• Fall River Library Trustees Review Operations and Tuition Aid on September 9, 2026
• Fall River City Council Re-Tables $586K Cable Funding Request on September 8, 2026
• Fall River City Council Committee Tables Arruda's Lane Dispute on September 8, 2026
• Playground Near Locust Street in Need of Maintenance, Resident Reports
• Resident Report Cites Worn Equipment and Paint at Locust Street Playground
• Maintenance requested for playground near Seabury Street
• Dead Tree Branches Reported at Ruggles Park
• Illegal dumping reported near Hargraves Street

The City of Fall River held its annual Rite of Reflection ceremony on the grounds of the Battleship Massachusetts to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The event commenced with the traditional striking of the four fives by Mike Arruda to render final honors to fallen first responders, followed by the national anthem sung by Rachel Raposo and an opening invocation delivered by Father Mike Racine.

Public safety leaders and municipal officials delivered remarks reflecting on the legacy and lessons of September 11. Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon spoke about the importance of remembering the national unity and shared humanity that emerged after the attacks, encouraging attendees to make a service pledge through 9/11 Day. Acting Police Chief J.T. Hoar, EMS Chief Fons, Bristol County Sheriff Heroux, and Mayor Paul E. Coogan offered tributes to the 2,977 victims, fallen emergency personnel, surviving responders battling chronic illnesses, and local victims connected to the Greater Fall River community.

Guest speaker Darlene Tetreault, founder of the South Coast Nurse Honor Guard, delivered a keynote address recognizing the critical contributions of nurses, healthcare professionals, and search-and-rescue canine teams during and after the tragedy. The ceremony concluded with a wreath presentation by EMA Chief Aguiar and Commander Caron at the contemplative circle, a 21-gun battery salute, the playing of Taps, a benediction by Father Rob Nemcovich, a release of peace doves, and musical performances of 'Amazing Grace' and 'God Bless America.'

Topics discussed

• Striking of the Four Fives and Final Honors Tradition
  Mike Arruda explained the historical origins of the fire service tradition of the 'four fives' bell toll dating back to 1865.
• National Anthem and Invocation
  Rachel Raposo performed the national anthem, followed by an invocation from Father Mike Racine reciting prayers offered at Ground Zero.
• Fall River Police Department Remarks
  Acting Police Chief J.T. Hoar spoke on the oath of public safety and honoring first responders and survivors suffering from post-9/11 illnesses.
• Fall River Fire Department Remarks
  Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon reflected on the 25th anniversary of 9/11, honoring Cantor Fitzgerald victim John Farrell and encouraging community service.
• Fall River EMS and Bristol County Sheriff Remarks
  Chief Fons and Bristol County Sheriff Heroux honored emergency responders, search and rescue canines, and the need to preserve history and national unity.
• Mayoral Address and First Responders Reflection
  Mayor Paul E. Coogan and Father Rob Nemcovich shared reflections honoring the victims, Gold Star families, and public safety personnel.
• Keynote Address by South Coast Nurse Honor Guard
  Darlene Tetreault spoke on the contributions of nurses and healthcare professionals on 9/11, remembering local victims Christopher D. Mello and Rev. Francis Grogan.
• Wreath Laying, Battery Salute, Taps, and Concluding Observances
  The ceremony concluded with a wreath placement, a 21-gun battery salute, Taps, a benediction, a dove release, and closing musical tributes.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River School Committee Technology Subcommittee met on September 10, 2026, to review district software usage, school opening operations, technology infrastructure, and administrative systems. The committee reviewed an executive summary detailing over 3.5 million recorded student engagements across ten major platforms during the previous school year, with discussions highlighting ST Math, Lexia Core 5, Carnegie Learning MATHia, Satchel Pulse social-emotional learning screeners, and Lightspeed classroom monitoring software. Committee members emphasized the need for regular monthly and quarterly data monitoring to ensure software effectiveness and fiscal accountability.

District administration presented enrollment updates indicating a total enrollment of 10,977 students across 17 active buildings and alternative programs, including the Resiliency Preparatory Academy (RPA), Evolve, and the virtual high school. The committee discussed technology deployment for the new school year, including Promethean board installations, classroom phone setup, staff device distribution, and the purchase and replacement of student ID card printers. Significant discussion took place regarding management and tracking of Yondr cell phone pouches, with members emphasizing the need for standard operating procedures, clear building-level principal accountability, and formal tracking of replacement fees.

The committee also addressed ongoing public compliance issues regarding missing School Committee meeting minutes on the district website and the Diligent platform. The administration committed to working with staff to ensure all past minutes from 2024 through 2026 are fully accessible to the public. The meeting concluded with a unanimous roll call vote to adjourn.

Topics discussed

• Educational Software Platforms and Usage Data
  The committee reviewed usage data for major software programs including ST Math, Lexia Core 5, Carnegie Learning, and Lightspeed, discussing monitoring processes and pedagogical effectiveness.
• School Committee Meeting Minutes Access on Diligent
  Committee members raised concerns regarding missing School Committee meeting minutes from 2024 through 2026 on the public portal.
• District Enrollment and Alternative School Programs
  The committee reviewed opening-of-school enrollment figures across all 17 buildings and alternative placements such as RPA, Evolve, and the virtual high school.
• Hardware Setup, ID Printers, and Copier Leases
  Administrators provided updates on Promethean boards, phone installations, failing student ID printers, and plans to assess district-wide copier and printer leases.
• Yondr Cell Phone Pouches Administration and Tracking
  Committee members discussed inventory control, replacement fee collection procedures, and principal accountability for Yondr pouch distribution.
• Motion to adjourn the Technology Subcommittee meeting — passed
  Motion to adjourn the Technology Subcommittee meeting

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River School Committee's Facilities and Operations Subcommittee met on September 10, 2026, to discuss multiple district capital, operational, and facility matters. Chief Operating Officer Ken Pacheco provided an update on the administration building window replacement project funded in part by Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds, explaining that bids for installation came in significantly higher than the initial $400,000 estimate—ranging from $700,000 to $1.3 million. Committee members discussed purchasing the custom windows directly, phasing installations, addressing lead abatement, and updating building safety access and handicap entry door push-pad protocols. The subcommittee also reviewed school traffic flow and arrival/dismissal operations following a $65,000 engineering traffic study, noting marked improvements at schools like Fonseca, Greene, and Letourneau.

Updates were provided on the Early Learning playground at the Bishop Connolly site, where work was temporarily delayed after hitting an unmarked water valve, prompting committee requests for temporary safety fencing around the construction zone. Member Collin R. Dias raised concerns regarding the pending Purchase and Sale agreement for the Bishop Connolly property and requested that school administration obtain the draft contract from Corporation Counsel Alan Rumsey to review potential long-term facility-use covenants before it reaches final diocesan and Vatican approval. The committee voted unanimously to refer the purchase and sale update to the full School Committee.

Finally, the committee discussed renovations at the PACE facility, where Room 62 was being converted for approximately $20,000 to $23,000 into consolidated director office spaces, prompting discussion on creating a multi-year facilities plan averaging $600,000 to $800,000 annually across the district's 19 buildings. The subcommittee concluded with a review of summer overtime expenditures across custodial, transportation, and groundskeeping departments, addressing approval protocols and maintenance at B.M.C. Durfee High School before adjourning.

Topics discussed

• Administration Building Window Project and Accessibility
  COO Ken Pacheco reviewed the CPC grant window project, high vendor bids, lead paint abatement, and electronic handicap push-pad operation at building entrances.
• Districtwide Traffic and School Access Study
  Discussion of arrival and dismissal traffic management, traffic engineering study findings, and staff safety gear during inclement weather.
• Bishop Connolly Early Learning Playground Construction
  Update on site prep, unforeseen water line repairs, paving timelines, and installation of temporary construction fencing for student safety.
• Bishop Connolly Property Purchase and Sale Terms
  Committee members inquired into legal review of the draft P&S agreement for Bishop Connolly to ensure district rights regarding building use and community permitting.
• Motion to refer the request to review the Bishop Connolly draft Purchase and Sale agreement to the full School Committee for an update at the next meeting. — passed
  Motion to refer the request to review the Bishop Connolly draft Purchase and Sale agreement to the full School Committee for an update at the next meeting.
• PACE Center Room 62 Renovation and Long-Term Facilities Plan
  Discussion on an estimated $20,000 to $23,000 conversion of storage space into centralized administrative cubicles and establishing a 5-year capital facilities cost center.
• Summer Overtime Breakdown and Authorization Procedures
  Review of overtime logs from July through September across custodial, clerk, paraprofessional, and grounds staff, alongside procedural compliance discussions.
• Motion to adjourn the meeting. — passed
  Motion to adjourn the meeting.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Planning Board met on September 9, 2026, to address several old and new business items concerning subdivision approvals, surety releases, and roadway reconstruction applications. The board reviewed a proposal by Tiverton Investments, LLC to reconstruct approximately 550 feet of roadway on Spring Street extending into Tiverton, Rhode Island, utilizing pervious asphalt for stormwater management. Due to outstanding engineering and maintenance concerns raised by City Engineer Daniel Aguiar, the matter was tabled to October to allow for a technical working meeting between the applicant and city staff.

The board also tabled an incomplete roadway reconstruction application for wooded lots off Bark, Norwood, and Monarch Streets, as well as a surety release request for the Highland Woods subdivision pending final review. In other actions, the board approved the release of covenants on lots 1 through 14 of the King Philip's Estate subdivision (Princeton Circle) in exchange for a $200,000 letter of credit from BayCoast Bank, and endorsed an Approval Not Required (ANR) Form A plan for 311 Crescent Street. The board concluded the meeting by adopting the 2027 meeting calendar and approving the August 12, 2026 meeting minutes.

Topics discussed

• Table the Spring Street roadway reconstruction plan to the October meeting — tabled
  Table the Spring Street roadway reconstruction plan to the October meeting
• Spring Street Roadway Reconstruction and Stormwater Management
  Applicant Tiverton Investments, LLC presented revised plans to construct 550 feet of road with pervious asphalt. Daniel Aguiar raised concerns regarding maintenance, standards, and runoff into Bolduc's Lane, leading to a vote to table.
• Table the Bark, Norwood, and Monarch Streets roadway reconstruction application to the next meeting — tabled
  Table the Bark, Norwood, and Monarch Streets roadway reconstruction application to the next meeting
• Bark, Norwood, and Monarch Streets Roadway Reconstruction
  The board tabled the proposal because only conceptual drafts had been submitted and the applicant was not present.
• King Philip's Estate Subdivision Covenant Release and Surety
  Developer Robert Cafori requested the release of lots 1–14 by providing an irrevocable letter of credit for $200,000 from BayCoast Bank to cover remaining road paving and infrastructure work.
• Accept $200,000 letter of credit from BayCoast Bank and release covenant for Lots 1 through 14 of King Philip's Estate subdivision — approved
  Accept $200,000 letter of credit from BayCoast Bank and release covenant for Lots 1 through 14 of King Philip's Estate subdivision
• Highland Woods Subdivision Surety Release
  Request tabled pending complete review of final as-built plans by the Department of Community Utilities and City Engineer.
• Table Highland Woods subdivision surety release request to the next meeting — tabled
  Table Highland Woods subdivision surety release request to the next meeting
• Endorse Form A ANR plan (File No. 26-1685) for 311 Crescent Street — approved
  Endorse Form A ANR plan (File No. 26-1685) for 311 Crescent Street
• 311 Crescent Street ANR Plan
  Board endorsed an ANR plan following a discussion regarding a typographical error in the recorded zoning variance concerning street frontage.
• 2027 Meeting Schedule Adoption
  The board reviewed and approved the 2027 meeting dates, typically held on the second Wednesday of each month.
• Approve 2027 Planning Board meeting schedule — approved
  Approve 2027 Planning Board meeting schedule
• August 12, 2026 Minutes Approval
  Board members reviewed and accepted the minutes from the August 12, 2026 meeting.
• Approve meeting minutes from August 12, 2026 — approved
  Approve meeting minutes from August 12, 2026

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Commission on Disability met on September 9, 2026, to address funding requests, elect officers, and review departmental updates. Superintendent-Director Brian Bentley of Diman Regional Vocational High School presented a request for approximately $3,000 to purchase a Stryker evacuation chair for Diman's new four-story facility, supplementing three existing chairs previously funded by the commission. Following discussion regarding whether commission funds can assist a regional school where approximately 76.5% of students are Fall River residents, the commission voted 3-0 (with Vice Chair Debbie Pacheco abstaining due to employment conflict) to table the request and seek guidance from Corporation Counsel.

The commission approved the meeting minutes from June 24, 2026, and conducted annual officer elections. Dennis Polselli was re-elected Chair, Debbie Pacheco was re-elected Vice Chair, Lisa Silva was elected Secretary, and Dan Robillard was reappointed Treasurer. The commission also received updates concerning the planned sensory playground at Abbott Court, scholarship distributions (seven of nine disbursed to educational institutions), and ongoing website transition work with the Health and Human Services department.

Topics discussed

• Commission Officer Elections
  Dennis Polselli was elected Chair, Debbie Pacheco was elected Vice Chair, and Lisa Silva was elected Secretary for the upcoming year.
• Motion to take agenda items out of order to address the Diman funding request first — passed
  Motion to take agenda items out of order to address the Diman funding request first
• Diman Evacuation Chair Request and Residency Fund Restrictions
  Superintendent Brian Bentley detailed the need for a fourth Stryker evacuation chair at Diman Regional Vocational High School. Commissioners debated legal guidelines surrounding whether handicap parking revenue funds can support regional schools serving multiple towns.
• Motion to table the Diman evacuation chair funding request until the October meeting and seek an opinion from Corporation Counsel — tabled
  Motion to table the Diman evacuation chair funding request until the October meeting and seek an opinion from Corporation Counsel
• Meeting Minutes Approval
  The commission voted to adopt the meeting minutes of June 24, 2026.
• Motion to approve the meeting minutes of June 24, 2026 — approved
  Motion to approve the meeting minutes of June 24, 2026
• Election of Dennis Polselli as Chair of the Commission on Disability — passed
  Election of Dennis Polselli as Chair of the Commission on Disability
• Election of Debbie Pacheco as Vice Chair of the Commission on Disability — passed
  Election of Debbie Pacheco as Vice Chair of the Commission on Disability
• Election of Lisa Silva as Secretary of the Commission on Disability — passed
  Election of Lisa Silva as Secretary of the Commission on Disability
• Abbott Court Sensory Playground Update
  Commission members scheduled a meeting with Mike Dion and a grant writer to discuss progress on the Abbott Court sensory playground project.
• Scholarship Distribution and Website Updates
  The commission discussed that seven of nine scholarships were distributed to higher education institutions, and Commissioner Robillard reported progress on updating the commission's municipal webpage.
• Motion to adjourn the meeting — passed
  Motion to adjourn the meeting

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Library Board of Trustees met on September 9, 2026, to review meeting minutes, operational statistics, annual reporting procedures, and administrative updates. The board approved the minutes from the June 10 regular meeting and the July special meeting, with minor date corrections noted.

Library Director Fellisha Desmarais presented the library's recent statistics and operational highlights. Discussions focused on increased print circulation driven by summer reading, the success of the Kanopy streaming platform (costing approximately $3,000 annually), potential adjustments to VHS-to-digital conversion fees, and the impending October shutoff of Verizon hardline fax services, which will necessitate moving to cellular/remote solutions. The board also reviewed the draft of the annual report compiling past administrative updates and approved tuition reimbursement requests for staff members Kyla and Diana.

Under new business, Desmarais presented draft designs for distinct letterheads for the Library Foundation, the Friends of the Library, and official library administration. The distinct letterheads aim to eliminate recurring donor confusion between the two support organizations. Following brief trustee feedback, the meeting adjourned.

Topics discussed

• Adjournment of the meeting — approved
  Adjournment of the meeting
• Meeting Minutes Approval
  Review and acceptance of minutes from previous summer meetings.
• Approval of the June 10, 2026 meeting minutes — approved
  Approval of the June 10, 2026 meeting minutes
• Approval of the July special meeting minutes with typographical date correction — approved
  Approval of the July special meeting minutes with typographical date correction
• Verizon Fax Line Termination
  Discussion regarding the termination of underground hardline fax service by Verizon in October and transition plans to cellular remote faxing.
• Circulation, Programming, and Resource Statistics
  Report on increased summer reading circulation, Kanopy streaming use, bookmobile visits, and collection development during the interim budget period.
• Annual Report Review
  Discussion regarding whether to summarize monthly administrator reports or include introductions and staff/donor lists in the annual report.
• Staff Course Reimbursement
  Board consideration and approval of reimbursement for coursework undertaken by library employees Kyla and Diana.
• Approval of course reimbursement for library staff members Kyla and Diana — approved
  Approval of course reimbursement for library staff members Kyla and Diana
• Official Letterhead Standardization
  Presentation of separate letterheads for the Library Foundation, Friends of the Library, and the Library Director to avoid donation confusion.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River City Council held a public hearing, a Committee on Finance meeting, and a regular City Council meeting on September 8, 2026. The public hearing covered multiple National Grid and Verizon pole petition requests, an auto repair shop license, a curb removal application, and a license for the relocation of the Savers secondhand store to 133 Mariano Bishop Boulevard. A resident objected to a proposed utility pole near her driveway on Bedford Street, prompting the Council to refer that specific petition to the Committee on Public Works and Transportation for further review.

During the Committee on Finance meeting, the Council presented a citation honoring Anthony F. Cordeiro as the recipient of the Roger Valcourt Outstanding Citizenship Award. Public citizens brought forward concerns regarding administrative procedures and parking citation appeals in the Traffic and Parking Department. The committee also discussed funding for May's Playground, reviewing inactive capital accounts and potential state ADA and park grant applications totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.

In the regular City Council session, members approved various committee appointments, an online public auction for surplus property, and fiber optic cable attachments. The Council adopted resolutions requesting an open checkbook financial transparency portal, an audit and comprehensive plan for solid waste and recycling carts, discussions on an HR compensation study, and traffic safety reviews. After debating whether funds could legally be expended prior to the next fiscal year without explicit Department of Revenue guidance, the Council voted 8-1 to re-table a $586,600 appropriation from the PEG Access and Cable Related Fund.

Topics discussed

• Bedford Street Pole Opposition
  Resident Eileen Pacheco of 1139 Bedford Street voiced concerns that a proposed pole would block her driveway and sightlines, leading to referral to committee.
• Refer Bedford Street utility pole petition (Item 19C) to Public Works and Transportation Committee — referred
  Refer Bedford Street utility pole petition (Item 19C) to Public Works and Transportation Committee
• National Grid & Verizon Pole Petitions
  National Grid and Verizon petitioned for utility poles across six city locations to install electrical reclosers for circuit reliability.
• Savers Relocation
  Savers District Manager Julia Cotto presented plans to relocate their store and donation intake operation next door at 133 Mariano Bishop Boulevard.
• Roger Valcourt Citizenship Award Presentation
  The City Council presented a citation honoring Anthony F. Cordeiro for receiving the Roger Valcourt Outstanding Citizenship Award for community development and philanthropy.
• Citizen Input: Traffic & Parking Department Oversight Requests
  Residents Ryan Duarte and Veda Boulet requested City Council oversight into administrative procedures, citation appeals, and RMV registration holds.
• May's Playground Capital Funding
  Councilors discussed allocating $50,000 from inactive park capital project funds and tracking $675,000 in pending state grants for May's Playground.
• Confirm reappointment of Christopher Antao to the Cultural Council — approved
  Confirm reappointment of Christopher Antao to the Cultural Council
• Confirm reappointment of Vania M. Noverca-Viveiros to the Cultural Council — approved
  Confirm reappointment of Vania M. Noverca-Viveiros to the Cultural Council
• Confirm reappointment of Ken Shadegg to the Historical Commission — approved
  Confirm reappointment of Ken Shadegg to the Historical Commission
• Confirm reappointment of Richard R. Mancini to the Historical Commission — approved
  Confirm reappointment of Richard R. Mancini to the Historical Commission
• Refer FY26 quarterly budget report to Committee on Finance — referred
  Refer FY26 quarterly budget report to Committee on Finance
• $10M Street Improvement Loan Order
  Mayoral loan order of $10,000,000 for street construction and improvements referred to the Committee on Finance.
• Authorize $10,000,000 street construction and improvement loan order to be published and referred to Committee on Finance — referred
  Authorize $10,000,000 street construction and improvement loan order to be published and referred to Committee on Finance
• Approve request to conduct public online auction for surplus property — approved
  Approve request to conduct public online auction for surplus property
• Refer Traffic Commission recommendations to Committee on Ordinances and Legislation — referred
  Refer Traffic Commission recommendations to Committee on Ordinances and Legislation
• Refer revised outside legal counsel policy to Committee on Finance — referred
  Refer revised outside legal counsel policy to Committee on Finance
• Outside Legal Counsel Policy
  Councilors debated proposed procedural rules and voting thresholds governing when the City Council can retain second legal opinions or outside counsel.
• Refer proposed removal of Section 2-33 (outside legal counsel) to Committee on Ordinances and Legislation — referred
  Refer proposed removal of Section 2-33 (outside legal counsel) to Committee on Ordinances and Legislation
• Solid Waste & Recycling Cart Audit and Policy
  Council Vice President Dionne introduced a resolution to inventory excess municipal trash carts and conduct a comprehensive cost analysis instead of eliminating 5- and 6-family pickups.
• Adopt resolution for solid waste cart inventory and comprehensive financial analysis — passed
  Adopt resolution for solid waste cart inventory and comprehensive financial analysis
• Motion to reject/grant leave to withdraw proposed ordinance amending Section 62-2C regarding solid waste collection — failed
  Motion to reject/...

The Fall River City Council Committee on Public Works and Transportation met to address curb removal requests and ongoing access and maintenance disputes regarding Arruda's Lane. The committee first approved the meeting minutes from July 2, 2026, and noted that no residents signed up for citizen input.

The committee took Item 4 out of order regarding an after-the-fact curb removal application submitted by Timothy R. Long for 677 Meridian Street. The applicant sought approval for the removal of 9 feet 1 inch of curbing to create a total opening of 24 feet 1 inch. Because the work had already been executed prior to receiving city approval, the committee voted to recommend that the City Council approve the request subject to a standard penalty of a double permit fee.

The remainder of the meeting centered on Item 3, a resolution discussing access and roadway conditions affecting residents on Greenleaf Street and Judd Street. Residents presented a PowerPoint outlining historical road acceptance dating back to 1977 and requested immediate roadway repairs and brush clearing on Arruda's Lane, a private way situated across the state line in Tiverton, Rhode Island. Corporation Counsel Alan Rumsey and Director of Engineering and Planning Daniel Aguiar emphasized legal and jurisdictional boundaries, explaining that Fall River is not legally obligated to maintain a private out-of-state way and cautioning against municipal liability and improper expenditure of public funds. The committee ultimately voted to table the matter for 30 to 45 days to allow city officials to research viable legal options.

Topics discussed

• Citizen Input Time
  Public comment period conducted with no registered speakers.
• July 2, 2026 Committee Minutes
  Vote to accept the committee meeting minutes from July 2, 2026.
• Acceptance of committee minutes from July 2, 2026 — approved
  Acceptance of committee minutes from July 2, 2026
• Motion to take Item 4 out of order — passed
  Motion to take Item 4 out of order
• After-the-Fact Curb Removal at 677 Meridian Street
  Timothy R. Long addressed the committee regarding a 9-foot-1-inch curb cut completed without prior authorization, agreeing to pay an additional permit fee.
• Recommendation to full City Council to approve curb removal at 677 Meridian Street with stipulation of an additional double permit fee ($250) — approved
  Recommendation to full City Council to approve curb removal at 677 Meridian Street with stipulation of an additional double permit fee ($250)
• Motion to table the resolution regarding Arruda's Lane / Greenleaf Street and Judd Street for further legal and engineering review — tabled
  Motion to table the resolution regarding Arruda's Lane / Greenleaf Street and Judd Street for further legal and engineering review
• Arruda's Lane Maintenance and Legal Jurisdiction
  Greenleaf Street and Judd Street residents requested Fall River pave and maintain Arruda's Lane in Tiverton, RI, while city officials detailed legal constraints regarding spending city funds on out-of-state private ways.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

Welcome to Fall River Now. Here's your look at the week ahead in Fall River city government.

Tuesday evening at 5:55, the City Council takes up a heavy agenda headlined by big-money proposals and local business hearings. Mayor Paul E. Coogan has submitted a ten-million-dollar loan order for street construction and improvements across the city. Councilors will also review a proposal to allocate fifty thousand dollars in inactive parks capital funds to support Mae's Playground, and consider a tabled request for five hundred eighty-six thousand six hundred dollars from the cable access fund for FREDTV and FRCMedia. In addition, the council will hold public hearings for an auto repair shop license at 830 Globe Street and a secondhand store license for Savers on Mariano Bishop Boulevard, alongside several utility pole petitions and mayoral reappointments to the Cultural Council and Historical Commission.

Before the full council convenes, the Committee on Public Works and Transportation meets Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. Committee members, the City Engineer, and legal counsel will sit down with local residents to address concerns about poor road conditions near Greenleaf Street and Judge Street.

On Wednesday afternoon at 2:00, the SRPEDD Joint Transportation Planning Group meets to discuss regional transit updates and review an administrative modification to the regional transportation improvement program for GATRA support equipment and bus capital items. The group will also talk about forming a Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee and hear a presentation on an age-friendly mobility plan.

At 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, two city boards meet simultaneously. The Fall River Commission on Disability convenes to hold officer elections for chair, vice chair, and secretary, while receiving updates on ADA matters, finances, and outreach. At the exact same time, the Board of Library Trustees meets to review the Library Director's annual report, discuss updates on building repairs, and consider two educational reimbursement requests.

Wednesday wraps up at 5:30 p.m. with the Fall River Planning Board. The board will review roadway reconstruction plans for Spring Street as well as vacant wooded lots off Bark, Norwood, and Monarch streets. Board members will also consider requests to release lots in the King Philip Estates subdivision and release posted surety for the Highland Woods subdivision.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• City Council Committee on Public Works and Transportation @ 5:00 p.m.
• City Council Meetings @ 5:55 P.M.
• SRPEDD Joint Transportation Planning Group @ 2PM
• Fall River Commission on Disability @3:00 PM
• Board of Library Trustees @3:00 PM
• Fall River Planning Board @ 5:30PM

Welcome to Fall River Now. This is our weekly recap for the week ending September 4, 2026, where we cover the most significant local government news.

Topping the news this week, the Fall River Park Board met on Wednesday, September second, taking action on several municipal park matters. The board approved park usage permits and reviewed capital project submissions, along with requests regarding cemetery alterations and tree removals. The board also heard citizen input during the session, including a proposal from Westport resident Alex regarding an upcoming charity food drive planned for October tenth.

Also this week, the Fall River Board of Health held a virtual meeting on Monday, August thirty-first. The board denied an appeal related to a housing inspection and approved several licensing items, including a tattoo establishment application for Christina Fazzina Aesthetics at Biomed Spa on Rhode Island Avenue.

In civic milestones, the city held a ceremony on August thirty-first marking the twentieth anniversary of the Portas da Cidade monument dedication on Ponte Delgada Boulevard. The event celebrated the Gates of the City landmark alongside other major historical milestones.

Looking ahead to next week's public meetings, the Fall River City Council is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, September eighth, at five fifty-five in the evening in the Council Chamber at Government Center.

On Wednesday, September ninth, three separate boards are set to convene. The Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District Joint Transportation Planning Group will hold a hybrid meeting starting at two in the afternoon. At three o'clock, the Fall River Board of Library Trustees will meet at the Fall River Public Library on North Main Street, while the Fall River Commission on Disability holds a remote meeting by phone at the same time.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Fall River Park Board Approves Park Projects and Permits on September 2, 2026
• Fall River Board of Health Denies Housing Inspection Appeal, Approves Licenses on August 31, 2026
• Fall River Celebrates 20th Anniversary of Portas da Cidade on August 31, 2026

The Fall River Park Board met on September 2, 2026, to address permit requests for park usage, capital project submissions, cemetery alterations, and tree removal requests. During citizen input, Westport resident Alex presented a proposal for an October 10th charity food drive and car show at Kennedy Park, receiving guidance on department coordination with the city's events coordinator, traffic division, and emergency services before formally submitting paperwork for the October board meeting.

The board approved several permit requests, including an annual procession from Kennedy Park to St. Mary's by the Diocese of Fall River on October 12th, an outdoor rosary service by Holy Name Church at Lafayette Park on October 10th, and fall adult soccer permits for Jeremy Messier at Britland and Travassos parks with a condition to ensure fields are cleaned after games. Additionally, the board approved two Community Preservation Act (CPA) project applications submitted by Parks Director Darren Medeiros for new lighting and improvements at Maplewood's Gilly Amaral Baseball Field and sidewalk replacements at upper Kennedy Park, as well as a request from Oak Grove Cemetery to convert 30 double grave lots into 60 single graves.

In old business, the board addressed a tabled request from the Department of Community Maintenance regarding tree removal in the 300 block of Mount Hope Avenue. Following discussion on sidewalk accessibility and safety hazards near a driveway, the board voted 2-1 to approve the removal of one hazardous tree near the driveway, with Commissioners Victor Farias and Helen Rego voting in favor and Chairman John Sylvia opposed.

Topics discussed

• Approve previous meeting minutes — approved
  Approve previous meeting minutes
• Kennedy Park Car Show and Food Drive Proposal
  Alex presented an event concept for a car show and food drive at Kennedy Park on October 10th. Commissioners discussed logistics, parking locations along Park Drive, and instructed him to coordinate with Sarah Martin and municipal departments.
• Diocese of Fall River Procession Permit
  The board reviewed and approved the Diocese of Fall River's request to use Kennedy Park for a procession to St. Mary's on October 12, 2026.
• Approve Diocese of Fall River procession request for Kennedy Park on October 12, 2026 — approved
  Approve Diocese of Fall River procession request for Kennedy Park on October 12, 2026
• Lafayette Park Holy Name Church Event
  Susan Belmore requested permission on behalf of Holy Name Church to hold an outdoor rosary service at Lafayette Park on October 10, 2026.
• Approve Holy Name Church outdoor rosary permit for Lafayette Park on October 10, 2026 — approved
  Approve Holy Name Church outdoor rosary permit for Lafayette Park on October 10, 2026
• CPA Applications for Maplewood and Kennedy Parks
  Parks Director Darren Medeiros presented two CPA funding requests: one for ball field lighting at the Gilly Amaral Baseball Field at Maplewood Park and another for new sidewalks at upper Kennedy Park.
• Approve submission of two CPA park project applications for Maplewood Gilly Amaral field lights and upper Kennedy Park sidewalks — approved
  Approve submission of two CPA park project applications for Maplewood Gilly Amaral field lights and upper Kennedy Park sidewalks
• Oak Grove Cemetery Layout Conversion
  Discussion and approval of converting 30 double grave lots into 60 single grave lots at Oak Grove Cemetery to meet single plot demand.
• Approve conversion of 30 double grave lots to 60 single graves at Oak Grove Cemetery — approved
  Approve conversion of 30 double grave lots to 60 single graves at Oak Grove Cemetery
• Britland and Travassos Soccer League Usage
  The board approved Jeremy Messier's request to hold soccer games on Sundays at Britland Park and Mondays/Wednesdays at Travassos Park, with an agreement that teams clean up after games.
• Approve Jeremy Messier's soccer permit for Britland Park and Travassos Park conditional on post-game cleanup — approved
  Approve Jeremy Messier's soccer permit for Britland Park and Travassos Park conditional on post-game cleanup
• Mount Hope Avenue Tree Removal
  The board deliberated the removal of a tree on Mount Hope Avenue near a driveway deemed a traffic and safety hazard, approving removal by a 2-1 vote.
• Approve removal of one tree next to the driveway on Mount Hope Avenue — approved
  Approve removal of one tree next to the driveway on Mount Hope Avenue

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Board of Health met virtually on August 31, 2026, and approved previous meeting minutes as well as multiple licensing applications. The Board approved a tattoo establishment application for Christina Fazzina Aesthetics at Biomed Spa located at 400 Rhode Island Avenue, along with tattoo practitioner licenses for Christina Fazzina and Andrea. Additionally, the Board voted to approve a local upgrade request for 115 Newhall Street upon the recommendation of City Engineer Daniel Aguiar.

The Board considered an appeal from Isaac Silva regarding a July 24, 2026 housing inspection report for his apartment at Cardinal Medeiros Towers (1197 Robeson Street). Silva requested that the inspection report finding no code violations regarding roaches be struck or amended due to alleged inaccuracies and structural pest breaches. After hearing testimony from the inspector and housing authority management, the Board explained that ongoing professional extermination meets code compliance requirements and voted unanimously (3-0) to deny the request to strike or alter the public report.

During the Director's Report, Director of Health and Human Services Tess Curran updated the Board on the state's recent designation of kratom as a Schedule I substance effective August 28, noting that local health inspectors are preparing guidance and compliance memos for local retailers. Curran also announced an upcoming Massachusetts Department of Public Health statewide community health survey to be promoted locally through Mass in Motion.

Topics discussed

• Approval of Meeting Minutes
  The Board voted to approve minutes from May 18, 2026, June 29, 2026, and July 27, 2026.
• Approval of meeting minutes from May 18, 2026 and June 29, 2026 — approved
  Approval of meeting minutes from May 18, 2026 and June 29, 2026
• Approval of meeting minutes from July 27, 2026 — approved
  Approval of meeting minutes from July 27, 2026
• Tattoo Establishment Application - 400 Rhode Island Avenue
  Board considered and approved a tattoo establishment application for Christina Fazzina Aesthetics at Biomed Spa.
• Approval of tattoo establishment license for Christina Fazzina Aesthetics at Biomed Spa at 400 Rhode Island Avenue — approved
  Approval of tattoo establishment license for Christina Fazzina Aesthetics at Biomed Spa at 400 Rhode Island Avenue
• Tattoo Practitioner Licenses
  Board approved tattoo practitioner licenses for Christina Fazzina and Andrea.
• Approval of tattoo practitioner license for Christina Fazzina — approved
  Approval of tattoo practitioner license for Christina Fazzina
• Approval of tattoo practitioner license for Andrea — approved
  Approval of tattoo practitioner license for Andrea
• Housing Inspection Appeal - 1197 Robeson Street
  Isaac Silva requested to strike a housing inspection report from the public record concerning roach issues at Cardinal Medeiros Towers, which the Board denied.
• Denial of Isaac Silva's request to strike or amend the housing inspection report of July 24, 2026 — denied
  Denial of Isaac Silva's request to strike or amend the housing inspection report of July 24, 2026
• Local Upgrade Request - 115 Newhall Street
  Board approved a local upgrade request for 115 Newhall Street recommended by City Engineer Daniel Aguiar.
• Approval of local upgrade request for 115 Newhall Street — approved
  Approval of local upgrade request for 115 Newhall Street
• Kratom Regulation and DPH Community Survey
  Director Tess Curran discussed local enforcement of the state's Schedule I classification of kratom and promotion of a statewide health survey.
• Motion to adjourn meeting — passed
  Motion to adjourn meeting

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

On August 31, 2026, the City of Fall River held a ceremonial event celebrating the 20th anniversary of the dedication of the Portas da Cidade (Gates of the City) monument on Ponta Delgada Boulevard. The celebration aligned with several major milestones, including the 50th anniversary of political autonomy for the Azores and Madeira and the 40th anniversary of the Great Feast of the Holy Ghost of New England. The ceremony featured national anthems and the raising of the flags of the United States, Portugal, Fall River, and Ponta Delgada, accompanied by the Fall River Police Department Honor Guard, as well as a moment of silence for deceased committee members Raul Benevides, Liberal Silva, Alfredo Alves, and Fernando Garcia.

Keynote addresses and greetings were delivered by local and international dignitaries, including Fall River Mayor Paul E. Coogan, Ponta Delgada Municipal Council Vice President Dr. Pedro Furtado, Massachusetts State Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, former Fall River Mayor Edward Lambert, President of the Regional Government of the Azores Dr. José Manuel Bolieiro, and former President of Portugal Professor Dr. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. Speakers reflected on the sister-city partnership established in 1978, the 2006 construction of the monument using authentic Azorean basalt stone, and the deep cultural, historic, and economic connections linking Fall River with the Azores and Portugal.

The event concluded with formal recognitions of visiting diplomats, state legislators, members of the Portas da Cidade Advisory Committee, and cultural organizations including the Prince Henry Society and Casa dos Açores da Nova Inglaterra.

Topics discussed

• Remarks by Professor Dr. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Former President of Portugal
  Former President Rebelo de Sousa delivered an address on the symbolic importance of the gates representing openness, historical friendship, and gratitude to the Portuguese-American diaspora.
• Remarks by Mayor Paul E. Coogan
  Mayor Coogan welcomed attendees, celebrated two decades of the Gates of the City landmark, and praised the enduring ties between Fall River and Ponta Delgada.
• Remarks by Dr. Pedro Furtado, Vice President of the Municipal Council of Ponta Delgada
  Dr. Furtado discussed the historical sister-city relationship formalized in 1978, the history of the original 1783 gates in Ponta Delgada, and current demographic and economic growth in the Azores.
• Opening Remarks and Moment of Silence
  Opening remarks highlighting the 20th anniversary of the Portas da Cidade, followed by a moment of silence honoring deceased committee members Raul Benevides, Liberal Silva, Alfredo Alves, and Fernando Garcia.
• National Anthems and Flag Raising Ceremony
  The raising of the national and municipal flags of Portugal, Ponta Delgada, the United States, and Fall River accompanied by the Fall River Police Department Honor Guard.
• Dignitary Recognitions and Closing Remarks
  Formal recognition of attending diplomats, advisory committee members, state representatives, and cultural organizations, along with concluding remarks.
• Remarks by State Senator Michael J. Rodrigues
  Senator Rodrigues spoke on behalf of the Massachusetts state legislative delegation, reflecting on the 20-year history of the monument and the bilateral relationship with Portugal and the Azores.
• Remarks by Dr. José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Regional Government of the Azores
  President Bolieiro reflected on the cultural identity, immigration history, and deep shared roots linking Azoreans with the United States and Fall River.
• Historical Perspective by Former Mayor Edward Lambert
  Former Mayor Lambert recounted the origins of the replica monument project initiated with former Ponta Delgada Mayor Berta Cabral and the construction efforts by local committee leaders.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

Welcome to Fall River Now. Here's your look at the week ahead in Fall River city government.

The Board of Health meets this afternoon, Monday, at 3:30. Board members will consider business and practitioner licenses for Kristina Fazzina Aesthetics at BioMedSpa on Rhode Island Avenue. They will also review a separate practitioner license application for Andreea Furtado at the same location. In addition, the board will hear an appeal from Isaac Silvia regarding a July housing inspection report for an apartment on Robeson Street, and receive a regular report from the department director.

On Wednesday evening at 5:30, the Board of Park Commissioners takes up several park improvements and event requests. Parks Director Warren Medeiros is seeking approval for two Community Preservation Act projects. Those include new ballfield lighting and improvements at the Maplewood Gilly Amaral baseball field, as well as sidewalk removal and replacement. The board will also hear a request from Oak Grove Cemetery to convert 30 two-grave lots into 60 single-grave lots, and consider a request from the Department of Community Maintenance to remove three trees on Mount Hope Street.

Also before the park board on Wednesday: permit requests for upcoming community gatherings. The Diocese of Fall River is asking to use Kennedy Park for an October 12 procession to Saint Mary's Cathedral. Holy Name Church is seeking permission to use the upper section of Lafayette Park for an outdoor rosary service on October 10. Jeremy Messier has requested field use at Britland Park on Sundays and Travassos Park on Mondays and Wednesdays for soccer games.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Board of Health @3:30p.m.

The Fall River Redevelopment Authority meeting began with a unanimous vote to enter an executive session to approve minutes from July 29, 2026, and to discuss real estate strategy for 45 Annawan Street. Upon returning to the open session, the board unanimously approved the open session minutes from July 29, 2026, and the August warrant totaling $230,305.18.

Project Manager Karen Martin provided updates on two major projects. The Northfield Point site improvements are progressing, with work set to resume on September 8 and a target for substantial completion by the end of the month, aiming for a Columbus Day weekend opening. The dinghy docks project is scheduled to begin in mid-to-late September, with completion expected in October. The board also discussed the recently acquired property at 45 Annawan Street, which will be opened for temporary public parking soon, pending line striping. They debated signage, agreeing on "no overnight parking" and mentioning the use of security cameras.

Executive Director Sarah Page updated the board on several initiatives. The draft Urban Renewal Plan has received comments from the state's Department of Housing (HLC), which are being addressed. A discussion arose regarding HLC's request to prioritize acquisition properties, which the board questioned the necessity of. Page also reported on the successful grand opening of the Night Owl restaurant, the receipt of a $200,000 grant for the Pleasant Street corridor improvement plan, and a schedule of upcoming events for the NOMA district, including "Brick and Brush" in September, a Harvest Market in October, "Thanksmas" in November, and a Christmas event. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn.

Topics discussed

• Executive Session
  The board entered an executive session to approve minutes from July 29, 2026 and to discuss real estate strategy for property at 45 Annawan Street.
• Motion to enter into executive session. — passed
  Motion to enter into executive session.
• Approval of July 29, 2026 Minutes
  The board approved the open session minutes from their previous meeting on July 29, 2026.
• Approval of August Warrant
  The board approved the August warrant for payments totaling $230,305.18.
• Northfield Point Site Improvements Update
  An update was provided on the Northfield Point project, with work resuming September 8th and a target opening of Columbus Day weekend. Discussion included plantings, change orders for fill removal, and installation of an osprey nest pole.
• Motion to approve the July 29, 2026 open session minutes. — approved
  Motion to approve the July 29, 2026 open session minutes.
• Motion to approve the August warrant amount of $230,305.18. — approved
  Motion to approve the August warrant amount of $230,305.18.
• Dinghy Docks Project Update
  The board received an update on the dinghy docks project. Construction is set to begin in mid-to-late September and finish in October, within the window for driving piles.
• 45 Annawan Street Temporary Parking
  The board discussed the plan to open the recently acquired property at 45 Annawan Street for temporary public parking. They decided on signage indicating "no overnight parking" and the use of security cameras.
• Urban Renewal Plan (URP) Update
  Sarah Page reported that the draft URP received comments from the state's Department of Housing (HLC). The board questioned HLC's request to prioritize properties on the acquisition list.
• Night Owl Restaurant Opening
  Sarah Page reported on the successful grand opening of the Night Owl restaurant, which was well-attended by officials and the community.
• Pleasant Street Corridor Grant
  The authority received a $200,000 MTTA grant to fund an existing condition survey and pre-construction plans for improvements along the Pleasant Street corridor.
• NOMA District Events Update
  An update was given on events in the North of Main (NOMA) district, including a recap of a recent market and a preview of upcoming events: Brick and Brush, a Harvest Market, Thanksmas, and a Christmas event.
• Motion to adjourn. — passed
  Motion to adjourn.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River School Committee's Policy Subcommittee met on August 26, 2026, to review several key district policies. The most significant discussion centered on the student attendance policy. The administration presented data showing a decrease in chronic absenteeism from 37.3% to 25.4% and an increase in daily attendance to 91.6% over three years. A major point of contention was the "D4 buyback" program, which reduces a passing student's grade to a 65 after their fourth unexcused absence. After a lengthy debate about the program's effectiveness and fairness, the subcommittee voted to refer an amended version of the policy to the full committee, removing the punitive D4 section and delegating such consequences to individual school handbooks.

The subcommittee also reviewed and advanced other items. They approved referring the Durfee High School Athletic Handbook to the full committee with a recommendation to add specific language about eligibility requirements. An expense reimbursement policy was also referred forward, amended to state that the CFO will issue an annual guide on per diem rates based on federal guidelines. A policy on the destruction of property was advanced with a new provision to track vandalism incidents costing over $500 via the district's maintenance ticket system. A proposed work-from-home policy was tabled for further review of existing staff attendance policies. The meeting concluded with a discussion prompted by community complaints about staff smoking, vaping, and littering near schools, with the administration committing to reinforce existing rules.

Topics discussed

• Attendance Policy and D4 Buyback Program
  A detailed presentation and discussion on the district's attendance policy, focusing on proposed changes and the controversial D4 buyback program, which penalizes students for unexcused absences. The committee decided to remove the D4 section from the policy and leave it to individual school handbooks.
• To refer the attendance policy to the full committee with the amendment to remove the D4 buyback section (and everything after page 16), with that component to be handled in individual school handbooks. — passed
  To refer the attendance policy to the full committee with the amendment to remove the D4 buyback section (and everything after page 16), with that component to be handled in individual school handbooks.
• To table agenda item 3-2 to the next meeting. — passed
  To table agenda item 3-2 to the next meeting.
• To refer the Durfee High School Athletic Handbook to the full committee with the recommendation to add or link to the specific academic eligibility requirements. — passed
  To refer the Durfee High School Athletic Handbook to the full committee with the recommendation to add or link to the specific academic eligibility requirements.
• Athletic Handbook and Eligibility
  Review of the Durfee High School Athletic Handbook, with a focus on clarifying academic eligibility rules for student-athletes. A change was made to prevent credit recovery from affecting eligibility in the same term.
• Expense Reimbursement Policy
  Discussion on updating the expense reimbursement policy to use a standardized per diem rate based on federal guidelines, rather than collecting individual receipts, to simplify the process.
• MASC Policy Services Contract
  An update was provided on the status of the contract with the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) for policy review services.
• To refer the expense reimbursement policy to the full committee with the recommended change to add a sentence stating the CFO will provide an annual guide for reimbursement rates. — passed
  To refer the expense reimbursement policy to the full committee with the recommended change to add a sentence stating the CFO will provide an annual guide for reimbursement rates.
• Destruction of Property Policy
  The committee discussed the policy on vandalism and property destruction, deciding to implement a data collection system for incidents costing over $500 by adding a 'vandalism' tag to the SchoolDude maintenance system.
• To refer the destruction of property policy as discussed and amended to include data collection for vandalism incidents over $500 via the SchoolDude system. — passed
  To refer the destruction of property policy as discussed and amended to include data collection for vandalism incidents over $500 via the SchoolDude system.
• Work From Home Policy
  A debate on whether to create a formal work-from-home policy. The consensus was that staff should be present, with exceptions only under superintendent discretion for special circumstances. The item was tabled.
• To table the work from home policy for further review. — passed
  To table the work from home policy for further review.
• Hiring and Job Descriptions
  A discussion about ensuring new hires meet the required qualifications listed in job descriptions. The administration affirmed its commitment to following hiring protocols, and no policy was deemed necessary.
• Staff Handbook Update
  The committee confirmed the need for an updated staff handbook, separate from the student handbook, and the administration committed to providing a draft by October.
• Drug, Alcohol, and Vaping Policies
  In response to public complaints at a City Council meeting, the committee discussed reinforcing policies against smoking, vaping, and alcohol use by staff and parents on or near school grounds.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

This video is a promotional piece celebrating the 80th anniversary of the United Way of Greater Fall River. Kim Smith, the Executive Director, and Rachel Medeiros, the Marketing and Communications Coordinator, narrate the video, reflecting on the organization's history of building partnerships and connecting resources since 1947. They emphasize the United Way's role in supporting local programs that enhance health, youth opportunity, financial security, and community resiliency.

The video serves as a call to action, encouraging the public to contribute to the community's well-being. Viewers are invited to participate in events like the United We Move Trailfest, which kicks off the annual fundraising campaign, to volunteer their time, or to make financial donations. The message underscores that collective effort is essential for creating lasting positive impact and helping individuals and families thrive.

Topics discussed

• United Way of Greater Fall River 80th Anniversary
  The video celebrates the 80th anniversary of the United Way of Greater Fall River, highlighting its work and partnerships since 1947.
• Call to Action for Community Involvement
  The video encourages viewers to take action, get involved, and give back to ensure everyone in the community has an opportunity to thrive.
• Fundraising and Volunteering Opportunities
  Specific ways to contribute are mentioned, including participating in the United We Move Trailfest, volunteering, and making financial investments in the United Way.
• Community Support Focus Areas
  The United Way's efforts are directed at supporting local programs that strengthen health, youth opportunity, financial security, and community resiliency.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River City Council's Committee on Public Safety met to discuss traffic issues, downtown lighting, and fire department equipment. The meeting began with public input from several residents of Progress Street, including David Burns, Gerald Montigny, and Saima Beer, who detailed significant problems with traffic, parking, littering, and public nuisances related to the Letourneau Elementary School. They cited issues with both parents and school staff monopolizing parking, blocking access, and engaging in smoking and alleged marijuana use on the street.

The committee then addressed these concerns with school and city officials. Interim Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith apologized and committed to addressing the behavior of school staff. School officials, including COO Ken Pacheco, presented a new traffic flow plan for the school to be implemented on the first day of the new school year. Long-term solutions, such as leasing parking space from the nearby Market Basket, were also discussed. The committee, along with Police Sergeant Thomas Ferris and Traffic Director Stephanie MacArthur, agreed to increase police and parking control presence during the first few weeks of school to enforce the new plan. The matter was tabled for future review.
The committee also received an update on downtown lighting from City Administrator Ann O'Neil-Souza and Director of Community Maintenance Chris Hathaway. A plan to replace 58 lights on South Main Street is in the capital improvement plan, with $200,000 in free cash allocated for fiscal year 2027. Finally, Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon updated the committee on the acquisition of new PFAS-free turnout gear. He explained that the department is carefully trialing gear from different manufacturers to ensure firefighter safety and comfort before making a large purchase. The administration has committed to funding the new gear once a selection is made, with a plan to phase the purchases over several years.

Topics discussed

• Public Input: Progress Street School Parking & Signs
  Resident David Burns described issues with misplaced parking signs and traffic congestion caused by parents and teachers from Letourneau Elementary School.
• Public Input: Progress Street School Nuisance Issues
  Residents Gerald Montigny and Saima Beer detailed problems with school staff monopolizing parking, smoking/vaping on the street, littering, and residents being unable to park near their homes.
• Approval of Meeting Minutes
  The committee approved the minutes from the July 30, 2026 meeting.
• Approval of the minutes from the July 30, 2026 meeting. — approved
  Approval of the minutes from the July 30, 2026 meeting.
• Motion to table the discussion on traffic and parking conditions on Progress Street. — tabled
  Motion to table the discussion on traffic and parking conditions on Progress Street.
• Letourneau School Traffic & Parking Plan
  School officials, police, and traffic department representatives discussed ongoing issues on Progress Street and presented a new traffic flow plan, including potential long-term solutions like leasing parking from Market Basket.
• Downtown Lighting Improvements
  The committee discussed the plan to replace 58 lights on South Main Street, which is included in the capital improvement plan for 2027 with a $200,000 allocation from free cash.
• Motion to table the discussion on improving downtown lighting. — tabled
  Motion to table the discussion on improving downtown lighting.
• Fire Department Turnout Gear
  Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon updated the committee on the process of acquiring new PFAS-free turnout gear, including trialing different manufacturers' products and securing a funding commitment from the administration.
• Motion to adjourn the meeting. — passed
  Motion to adjourn the meeting.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Board of Assessors held a brief public meeting with members Richard Gonsalves and Nancy L. Hinote present; Richard B. Wolfson was absent. Due to Mr. Wolfson's absence, the board was unable to approve the executive session minutes from June 17, 2026. The members reviewed an invoice proof list and noted they had already signed the motor vehicle and supplemental warrants.

Several agenda items were postponed until after the executive session, including the monthly reports (items 5 and 6), the motor vehicle warrant discussion (item 7), and another unspecified item (item 9). The board then voted unanimously (2-0) to enter into executive session at 10:06 AM. The stated purpose of the executive session was to discuss abatements, exemptions, and Appellate Tax Board (ATB) matters, with the board noting they would reconvene in public session afterward. The provided transcript concludes as the board enters the executive session.

Topics discussed

• Roll Call
  A roll call was conducted, with Richard Gonsalves and Nancy L. Hinote present and Richard B. Wolfson absent.
• Approval of Minutes
  The approval of the June 17, 2026 executive session minutes was postponed due to the absence of board member Richard B. Wolfson.
• Invoice Proof List
  The board briefly reviewed the invoice proof list.
• Postponement of Agenda Items
  Agenda items 5, 6, 7, and 9 were postponed until after the conclusion of the executive session.
• Warrant Signatures
  Board members confirmed they had already signed the motor vehicle warrant and the supplemental warrant.
• Executive Session
  A motion was made and passed to enter executive session to discuss abatements, exemptions, and ATB matters, with the intent to reconvene in public session afterward.
• Motion to go into executive session to discuss abatements, exemptions, and ATB matters. — passed
  Motion to go into executive session to discuss abatements, exemptions, and ATB matters.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The meeting was a ceremony to present plaques to various Fall River organizations that had received Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding for projects. The plaques were intended to be displayed on the buildings or sites to acknowledge the CPA's contribution. The presenter called up representatives from each recipient one by one to receive their award. The projects were broadly categorized into historic preservation and open space improvements.

For historic preservation, plaques were awarded to numerous entities including the Fall River Historical Society, Lafayette Durfee House, Central Fire Station, Dr. Fisk House, the school administration building, Fall River Fire Museum, Handy Art School, Oak Grove Cemetery, Fall River Library, and St. Ann's Church, among others. Open space projects recognized included the Quicksand Rail Trail, lighting upgrades at Maplewood Park and Father Kelly Park, the Waterville Rowing Club, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, Adam Court Sensory Park, and court repaving at Griffin, Highland, and Troop Parks. The event was a celebration of the community improvements made possible through CPA funds.

Topics discussed

• CPA Plaque Presentations for Historic Preservation
  A series of plaques were presented to organizations that received CPA funds for historic preservation projects, including museums, historic homes, churches, and municipal buildings.
• CPA Plaque Presentations for Open Space
  A series of plaques were presented for projects funded by the CPA related to open space, including parks, trails, and memorials.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Tax Increment Finance Board held a brief meeting on August 25, 2026. The board began by approving the minutes from their previous meeting on June 12, 2026, with a unanimous 6-0 vote. The primary agenda item was an Open Meeting Law complaint filed by Collin R. Dias.

The complaint alleged that two board members, Ann O'Neil-Souza and Frank Marchione, had not filed their Open Meeting Law certifications. An unidentified speaker explained that Mr. Marchione, appointed in 2014, had received the required materials but had not signed the certification, which has since been sent to him to rectify. Ms. O'Neil-Souza had recently signed her certification. Following this explanation, the board voted unanimously, 6-0, to refer the matter to the Law Department for a formal response. With no other business, the meeting was promptly adjourned.

Topics discussed

• Call to Order and Roll Call
  The meeting was called to order, followed by a roll call of the board members.
• Approval of Minutes
  The board reviewed and approved the minutes from the June 12, 2026 meeting.
• Motion to adjourn the meeting. — passed
  Motion to adjourn the meeting.
• Approval of the minutes of the June 12th, 2026 meeting. — passed
  Approval of the minutes of the June 12th, 2026 meeting.
• Open Meeting Law Complaint
  A complaint from Collin R. Dias was discussed, alleging that members Ann O'Neil-Souza and Frank Marchione had not signed their Open Meeting Law certifications. The board referred the complaint to the Law Department.
• Refer the Open Meeting Law complaint from Collin Dias to the Law Department for response. — passed
  Refer the Open Meeting Law complaint from Collin Dias to the Law Department for response.
• Adjournment
  With no further business, the board voted to adjourn the meeting.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

Welcome to Fall River Now. Here's your look at the week ahead in Fall River city government.

We start with downtown real estate and city development. The Fall River Redevelopment Authority meets Wednesday evening at 5. The board will go into a private executive session to discuss a potential real estate transaction at 45 Anawan Street. Later in the public session, they will debate potential future uses for that property. The board is also scheduled to approve August bills and discuss site improvements, mooring fields, and a dinghy dock at 600 Davol Street. Members will close out their agenda with updates on the Pleasant Street and Flint Neighborhood Urban Renewal Plan, and the North Main Downtown Historic District.

On Tuesday evening at 5:15, the City Council Committee on Public Safety tackles downtown visibility. The committee will meet with city administrators, Director of City Operations Al Oliveira, and police department representatives to discuss improving lighting in the downtown area. Councilors will also discuss the protective turn-out gear used by the Fall River Fire Department. In neighborhood issues, the committee will review a resident's communication about traffic and parking problems on Progress Street.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Tax Increment Financing Board meets at 8 a.m. The primary agenda item to watch is a discussion regarding an Open Meeting Law complaint filed by Collin Dias.

Finally, the Atlantis Charter School Board of Trustees meets Wednesday afternoon at 5:15. The board will discuss preparations for the start of the 2027 school year. David Hutchinson is scheduled to present the July financial statements, and John Gonet will lead a discussion regarding his own reappointment to the board.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Tax Increment Financing Board @ 8:00 a.m.
• City Council Committee on Public Safety @ 5:15 p.m.
• Fall River Redevelopment Authority @ 5PM
• Atlantis Charter School Board of Trustees @ 5:15p.m.

The Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals, chaired by Joseph Pereira, convened on August 20, 2026, to review a series of property development petitions. The board approved several projects, including two revised proposals on Durfee Street. The first, at 333 Durfee Street, was unanimously approved to convert an auto repair shop into four residential units, creating a nine-unit property, after the petitioner increased the proposed parking to 14 spaces. The second, at 637 Durfee Street, saw a proposal for a new apartment building reduced from 12 to 8 units, which eliminated the need for several waivers and earned unanimous approval for the remaining setback variance and parking special permits.

The board also unanimously granted variances for subdividing a lot with three multi-family dwellings at 424 3rd Street, converting an office building into a four-unit apartment at 550 Locust Street, and dividing a lot to build a new single-family home at 302 Orchard Street. A special permit was granted for an electronic sign at 483 Bedford Street. A petition for a new apartment unit with no off-street parking at 189 Durfee Street was tabled until the September 17th meeting, following public opposition and board concerns about access and parking. The board also granted a two-year extension for a previously approved project on Duval Street.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a discussion led by Director of Engineering and Planning Daniel Aguiar about recent amendments to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40A. The new law replaces the strict "hardship" standard for variances with a more lenient "practical difficulty" standard, a change intended to spur housing development across the Commonwealth, which will significantly impact the board's ability to deny housing-related projects.

Topics discussed

• To adjourn the meeting. — passed
  To adjourn the meeting.
• To waive the reading of the minutes from the previous meeting and approve them. — approved
  To waive the reading of the minutes from the previous meeting and approve them.
• Petition for 333 Durfee Street
  Discussion and approval of a revised plan to convert an auto repair facility into a 4-unit dwelling, adding to an existing 5-family home, with an increased parking plan of 14 spaces for the total 9 units.
• To grant a variance for residential use at 333 Durfee Street. — passed
  To grant a variance for residential use at 333 Durfee Street.
• To grant a special permit for expansion, height increase, and parking reduction at 333 Durfee Street, conditioned on the resignation of the auto dealer's license. — passed
  To grant a special permit for expansion, height increase, and parking reduction at 333 Durfee Street, conditioned on the resignation of the auto dealer's license.
• Petition for 424 3rd Street
  Discussion and approval of a variance to subdivide one lot with three existing multi-family buildings into three separate lots, which also added four off-street parking spaces.
• To table the petition for 189 Durfee Street to the September 17, 2026 meeting and waive the tabling fee. — tabled
  To table the petition for 189 Durfee Street to the September 17, 2026 meeting and waive the tabling fee.
• To grant a variance for building setbacks at 637 Durfee Street. — passed
  To grant a variance for building setbacks at 637 Durfee Street.
• Petition for 637 Durfee Street
  Discussion and approval of a revised plan to build an 8-unit apartment building, reduced from 12 units, requiring variances for setbacks and special permits for parking layout.
• To grant a special permit for parking waivers (aisle width, setback, elimination of loading space) at 637 Durfee Street. — passed
  To grant a special permit for parking waivers (aisle width, setback, elimination of loading space) at 637 Durfee Street.
• To grant a variance to subdivide the property at 424 3rd Street into three lots, with conditions including no ADUs and fencing restrictions. — passed
  To grant a variance to subdivide the property at 424 3rd Street into three lots, with conditions including no ADUs and fencing restrictions.
• To grant a variance to waive minimum lot area and convert an office building to a 4-unit residential building at 550 Locust Street. — passed
  To grant a variance to waive minimum lot area and convert an office building to a 4-unit residential building at 550 Locust Street.
• To grant a special permit to allow required parking for 550 Locust Street to be located on a separate lot across the street. — passed
  To grant a special permit to allow required parking for 550 Locust Street to be located on a separate lot across the street.
• Petition for 550 Locust Street
  Discussion and approval of a variance to convert an office building into a 4-unit apartment building and a special permit to use a commonly-owned parking lot across the street.
• Petition for 302 Orchard Street
  Discussion and approval of a variance to subdivide a lot to create a new buildable lot for a single-family home, with waivers for lot area, frontage, and coverage.
• To grant a variance to divide the property at 302 Orchard Street into two lots, with the stipulation of no ADUs. — passed
  To grant a variance to divide the property at 302 Orchard Street into two lots, with the stipulation of no ADUs.
• To grant a special permit to install an electronic sign at 483 Bedford Street. — passed
  To grant a special permit to install an electronic sign at 483 Bedford Street.
• Petition for 483 Bedford Street
  Discussion and approval of a special permit to install an electronic sign for Spindle City Auto Glass in a medical zoning district.
• Petition for 189 Durfee Street
  Discussion of a proposal to create a one-bedroom apartment on the second floor of a commercial building with no off-street parking, which was ultimately tabled due to concerns over access, parking, and property maintenance raised by the public and the board.
• Petition for 577-609 Duval Street

Welcome to Fall River Now. This is our weekly recap for the week ending August 21, 2026, where we cover the most significant local government news.

Topping the news this week, official minutes released by the city confirm the City Council has officially passed a revised municipal budget for Fiscal Year 2027. Councilors had previously rejected a continuing budget because of missing documentation and concerns over school transportation and police funding. However, during a special meeting, the council reversed course and approved the revised budget in an eight to one vote. City Councilor Christopher M. Peckham, Sr. cast the sole dissenting vote.

Over at the schools, the Fall River School Committee greenlit a major financial agreement. During their regular Wednesday meeting, the committee approved a thirty million dollar energy contract. Members also debated state education reports and heard a resident's plea regarding Durfee High School. In a separate subcommittee meeting, school officials challenged budgets for the district's alternative education programs and discussed a new waste removal contract ahead of the academic year.

In other city business, the Traffic Board recommended an amendment to the commercial parking ordinance. The Fall River Historical Commission backed tax credits for the Charlton Mill. And the Community Preservation Committee granted a two year project extension for window work by Forward Preservation, though they delayed their financial report because the city's chief financial officer was absent. Meanwhile, the Licensing Board approved multiple restaurant and liquor licenses, operating with a strict two member quorum of Chairman Gregory Brilhante, Esq. and Michael Perreira. With only two members present, all approvals required a unanimous vote.

On the streets, residents filed a handful of non emergency reports this week, primarily focused on road hazards and illegal dumping. Complaints included multiple potholes near Hargraves, Quarry, and Bedford streets, a sunken drain on Stevens Street, overhanging barbed wire, and a discarded box spring dumped late Monday night.

Looking ahead, demolition of the former police station at 158 Bedford Street brings temporary street closures. Traffic in front of the building is shut down for two days to accommodate the tear down. Finally, the annual Great Feast of the Holy Ghost returns to Kennedy Park next week. The five day festival kicks off Wednesday evening, August 26th, and runs through Sunday night.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Fall River Licensing Board Approves Multiple Restaurant and Liquor Licenses on August 19, 2026
• Fall River Traffic Board Recommends Commercial Parking Ordinance Amendment on August 19, 2026
• Fall River School Committee Approves $30M Energy Contract, Debates DESE Reports on August 19, 2026
• Fall River School Committee Challenges Alternative Education Budgets at the August 19, 2026 Meeting
• Fall River Historical Commission Backs Charlton Mill Tax Credits at August 18, 2026 Meeting
• Sunken Drain Reported on Stevens Street as Road Damage Complaints Rise
• Fall River Community Preservation Committee Reelects Officers at August 17, 2026 Meeting
• Fall River Community Preservation Committee Grants Project Extensions on August 17, 2026
• Barbed Wire Reported Overhanging Sidewalk Near Hargraves Street
• Box Spring Illegally Dumped Near Hargraves Street
• Fall River City Council Rejects Fiscal Year 2027 Continuing Budget Under Deficit Concerns
• Fall River City Council Passes Revised Fiscal Year 2027 Budget
• Pothole Reported Near Quarry and Bedford Streets
• Multiple Potholes Reported Near Hargraves Street

The Fall River Licensing Board, meeting with a two-member quorum consisting of Chairman Gregory Brilhante, Esq. and member Michael Perreira, conducted its business on August 19, 2026. Due to the two-member board, all approvals required a unanimous vote, and applicants were given the option to table their petitions for a full board, though none chose to do so. The board approved several license applications and transfers. New Asia One Inc. at 1355 South Main Street was granted both an all-alcoholic beverage license and a common victualler's license to resume their dining operations. Taste of Paradise, located at 1335 Pleasant Street, received its all-alcoholic common victualler's license after completing significant renovations. The board also granted Taste of Paradise a series of one-day liquor permits for several weekends in August and September to allow them to operate before their full license is approved by the state, waiving the police detail requirement unless deemed necessary by the police department.

The board also handled several license transfers. A Class 2 auto sales license for Fortier Auto Sales and Service at 605 Globe Street was transferred from father to son, continuing a nearly 100-year-old family business. A beer and wine license was approved for transfer from Moe's Mini Mart to MRS Inc. (DBA Supreme Mott) at 1012 Beaufort Street, which included a change of location and manager. Another beer and wine license was transferred for the property at 1363 South Main Street to Sharab Inc. (DBA Ameristore). Additionally, Baja's Fresh Grill was granted a common victualler's license for its new location at 933 Pleasant Street, and TTC Entertainment LLC received approval for a pledge of collateral on its license. An entertainment license application for Danny's Dockside Inc. was tabled at the applicant's request as the establishment is not yet open.

Topics discussed

• Opening Procedures
  Chairman Brilhante opened the meeting, read the open meeting law notice, and noted that with only a two-member board present, all votes must be unanimous.
• New Asia One Inc. License Applications
  The board unanimously approved an all-alcoholic beverage license and a common victualler's license for New Asia One Inc. at 1355 South Main Street, allowing them to reopen their dining room.
• A motion to grant an all-liquor license to New Asia One Incorporated at 1355 South Main Street. — passed
  A motion to grant an all-liquor license to New Asia One Incorporated at 1355 South Main Street.
• A motion to grant a common victualler's license to New Asia One Incorporated at 1355 South Main Street. — passed
  A motion to grant a common victualler's license to New Asia One Incorporated at 1355 South Main Street.
• Taste of Paradise All-Alcoholic Common Victualler's License
  Following the completion of required renovations, the board unanimously approved an all-alcoholic common victualler's license for Taste of Paradise at 1335 Pleasant Street.
• A motion to grant a new all-alcohol common victualler's license to Taste of Paradise at 1335 Pleasant Street. — passed
  A motion to grant a new all-alcohol common victualler's license to Taste of Paradise at 1335 Pleasant Street.
• Taste of Paradise One-Day Liquor Permits
  The board granted a series of one-day liquor permits for multiple dates in August and September to allow the restaurant to serve alcohol before its full license is approved by the ABCC, with a waiver for the police detail requirement.
• A motion to grant one-day liquor permits for Taste of Paradise for specified dates in August and September 2026, with a waiver of the police detail requirement unless deemed necessary by the police department. — passed
  A motion to grant one-day liquor permits for Taste of Paradise for specified dates in August and September 2026, with a waiver of the police detail requirement unless deemed necessary by the police department.
• Fortier Auto Sales and Service License Transfer
  A Class 2 license was transferred from Robert Fortier to his son, Justin Fortier, for the family's auto business. A request to increase the number of cars on the lot was deferred pending an inspection.
• A motion to transfer the Class 2 license for Fortier Auto Sales and Service, Inc. — passed
  A motion to transfer the Class 2 license for Fortier Auto Sales and Service, Inc.
• A motion to grant a common victualler's license to Baja's Fresh Grill at 933 Pleasant Street. — passed
  A motion to grant a common victualler's license to Baja's Fresh Grill at 933 Pleasant Street.
• Baja's Fresh Grill Common Victualler's License
  The board approved a common victualler's license for a new restaurant at 933 Pleasant Street, contingent upon final approval from the health inspector.
• TTC Entertainment LLC Pledge of Collateral
  The board approved a request to pledge the establishment's liquor license as collateral to satisfy a bank loan requirement.
• A motion to grant the pledge of collateral to TTC Entertainment LLC at 1019 South Main Street. — passed
  A motion to grant the pledge of collateral to TTC Entertainment LLC at 1019 South Main Street.
• MRS Inc. (Supreme Mott) License Transfer
  A beer and wine license was transferred to MRS Inc., along with approvals for a change of location to 1012 Beaufort Street and a change of manager.
• A motion to transfer the license, transfer the location of the license, and transfer the manager of the license for MRS Inc. to 1012 Beaufort Street. — passed
  A motion to transfer the license, transfer the location of the license, and transfer the manager of the license for MRS Inc. to 1012 Beaufort Street.
• Sharab Inc. (Ameristore) License Transfer
  The board approved the transfer of a beer and wine license and a change of manager to Sharab Inc. for the location at 1363 South Main Street.
• A motion to transfer the license and the manager for Sharab Inc. at 1363 South Main Street. — passed
  A motion to transfer the license and the manager for Sharab Inc. at 1363 South Main Street.
• Danny's Dockside Inc. Entertainment License
  An application for an entert...

The Fall River Traffic Board held its meeting on August 19, 2026, chaired by Stephanie McArthur, Director of Traffic and Parking. The board began by approving the minutes from the July 15th meeting. They then approved a curb cut application for Jessica and Mark Forslund at 498 Reading Street to add a 12-foot driveway on Montgomery Street. A request from Peter Amaral of Shoreline Solutions for a loading zone at 4510th Street was also approved for the hours of 6 AM to 7 PM, seven days a week.

The board approved a request from the Veterans Association of Bristol County for prohibited parking along their new property on King Street to ensure safe access for trucks. The restriction will be in effect Monday through Friday, from 7 AM to 6 PM. A significant discussion was held regarding City Ordinance 70-319, concerning the all-night parking of commercial vehicles. The board voted to recommend an amendment to the ordinance, changing the restriction to apply to vehicles over 30 feet in length or over 5 tons, an increase from the current 2.5-ton limit. Two other traffic safety and parking requests were tabled due to the applicants' absence.

The latter half of the meeting was dedicated to handicap parking spot applications. The board approved new spots at 124 Eagle Street, 1427 North Main Street, 6 Kishan Street, 322 Brownell Street, 949 Locust Street, 298 Mulberry Street, 12 June Street, and 293 Mulberry Street. An application for 54 Kellogg Street was tabled. The board also approved a request from the traffic department to rescind nine outdated handicap spots across the city. The meeting was then adjourned.

Topics discussed

• Approval of Minutes
  The board approved the minutes for the July 15th, 2026 meeting.
• Approval of the July 15th agenda. — approved
  Approval of the July 15th agenda.
• Curb Cut Request at 498 Reading Street
  A request by Jessica and Mark Forslund for an additional 12-foot curb cut on Montgomery Street was approved, following a review by the engineering department which found no issues.
• Approval of curb cut application for 498 Reading Street. — approved
  Approval of curb cut application for 498 Reading Street.
• Loading Zone Request at 4510th Street
  Peter Amaral of Shoreline Solutions requested a loading zone in front of his business for loading and unloading. The board approved the zone for 6 AM to 7 PM, seven days a week.
• Approval of a loading zone for Shoreline Solutions at 4510th Street. — approved
  Approval of a loading zone for Shoreline Solutions at 4510th Street.
• Traffic Safety Evaluation at 3960 North Main Street
  A request for a traffic safety evaluation was tabled as the applicant was not present.
• Table the traffic safety evaluation for 3960 North Main Street. — tabled
  Table the traffic safety evaluation for 3960 North Main Street.
• Prohibited Parking for Veterans Association on King Street
  Sandy Curry of the Veterans Association of Bristol County requested prohibited parking at their new location to address blind spots and turning radius issues for trucks. The board approved prohibited parking from 7 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Friday.
• Approval of prohibited parking on King Street for the Veterans Association, Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 6 PM. — approved
  Approval of prohibited parking on King Street for the Veterans Association, Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 6 PM.
• Prohibited Parking Request on Wilson Road
  A resident's request for prohibited parking near Gina's Restaurant on Wilson Road was tabled due to their absence.
• Table the request for prohibited parking on Wilson Road. — tabled
  Table the request for prohibited parking on Wilson Road.
• Amendment to Commercial Vehicle Parking Ordinance 70-319
  The board discussed amending the ordinance for all-night parking of commercial vehicles. They recommended increasing the weight limit from 2.5 tons to 5 tons and adding a length restriction of 30 feet to target larger vehicles like tractor-trailers, not standard work vans.
• Recommendation to amend City Ordinance 70-319 to restrict commercial vehicles over 30 feet in length or 5 tons from all-night parking. — approved
  Recommendation to amend City Ordinance 70-319 to restrict commercial vehicles over 30 feet in length or 5 tons from all-night parking.
• Approval of a handicap parking spot at 124 Eagle Street. — approved
  Approval of a handicap parking spot at 124 Eagle Street.
• Approval of a handicap parking spot at 949 Locust Street. — approved
  Approval of a handicap parking spot at 949 Locust Street.
• Approval of a handicap parking spot at 12 June Street. — approved
  Approval of a handicap parking spot at 12 June Street.
• Table the request for a handicap parking spot at 54 Kellogg Street. — tabled
  Table the request for a handicap parking spot at 54 Kellogg Street.
• Approval of a handicap parking spot at 293 Mulberry Street. — approved
  Approval of a handicap parking spot at 293 Mulberry Street.
• Approval of a handicap parking spot at 1427 North Main Street. — approved
  Approval of a handicap parking spot at 1427 North Main Street.
• Handicap Parking Spot Applications
  The board reviewed and approved eight applications for new handicap parking spots and tabled one. A resident at 6 Kishan Street also requested 'autistic child' signage, which the Director agreed to install.
• Approval of a handicap parking spot at 6 Kishan Street. — approved
  Approval of a handicap parking spot at 6 Kishan Street.
• Approval of a handicap parking spot at 322 Brownell Street. — approved
  Approval of a handicap parking spot at 322 Brownell Street.
• Approval of...

The Fall River School Committee held a regular meeting on August 19, 2026, addressing a wide range of topics from citizen concerns to detailed district reports. The meeting began with resident Pamela Nickerson pleading with the committee to reopen the Durfee High School's Jarabek Memorial Pool for public swim and lessons, which has been closed to the public since December 2025. Committee members expressed support for reopening the pool and requested a plan from the administration.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith delivered an extensive report covering preparations for the new school year. This included a new opening day event for all staff at the Durfee football field on September 1st, updates on 17 summer capital improvement projects which employed 14 students, and an enrollment update projecting a decrease of approximately 100 students, raising budget concerns of over $2 million for FY28. The committee also received updates on hiring, with 101 new hires since the last meeting, and the ongoing redesign of 290 Rock Street.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to contentious discussions about two DESE district review reports from November 2024 and May 2026. School Committee Vice President Kevin Aguiar argued that the committee was unfairly criticized and targeted in the reports, particularly regarding fiscal oversight policies he believes are strengths that prevent deficits. Mayor Paul E. Coogan countered, stating the reports highlighted a lack of respect and an adversarial culture, and urged the committee to focus on moving forward rather than dwelling on past issues. The committee also approved numerous items, including the School Resource Officer MOU, a $30 million energy service agreement with Ameresco for Green Elementary School, various job descriptions, and appointed members Collin R. Dias and Kevin Aguiar to a city-wide ad hoc transportation committee.

Topics discussed

• Citizen's Input: Durfee Pool Closure
  Resident Pamela Nickerson addressed the committee about the closure of the Durfee High School's Jarabek Memorial Pool to the public since December 2025, urging them to reopen it for swim lessons and public use.
• Subcommittee Report: Facilities and Operations
  Kevin Aguiar reported that the subcommittee forwarded job descriptions, the SRO MOU, and the Green Elementary service agreement to the full committee for approval.
• School Committee Meeting Calendar 2026-2027
  The committee reviewed and approved the meeting calendar for the upcoming school year, with an amendment to reschedule the September and November meetings.
• Superintendent's Report: District Updates
  Dr. Kathleen Smith provided updates on the Administrators Institute, plans for the opening day of school, strategic planning progress, summer capital projects, and a student summer employment program.
• Enrollment Update and Projections
  The committee received a presentation on current enrollment, which is projected to be down by about 100 students, potentially creating a $2.2 million budget deficit for FY28.
• Hiring Update
  Dr. Godino reported that the district has had 101 new hires, 33 resignations, and 1 retirement since the last meeting, and highlighted the hard work of the Human Resources department.
• 290 Rock Street Program Update
  Dr. Bronhard provided an update on the Innovation Education Task Force and the programs at 290 Rock Street, noting the recent appointment of the former principal to Morton Middle School.
• Approval of Meeting Minutes and Compliance
  The committee approved seven sets of minutes and discussed the need to stay in compliance with the Open Meeting Law regarding timely approval and public posting of minutes.
• Approval of travel request. — passed
  Approval of travel request.
• Approval of first and third donation items. — passed
  Approval of first and third donation items.
• Approval of second donation item. — passed
  Approval of second donation item.
• MASC Services Discussion
  Glenn Kuchar, Executive Director of MASC, answered committee questions about the services, training, and resources covered by the district's annual membership dues.
• School Resource Officer (SRO) MOU
  The committee approved the memorandum of understanding with the Fall River Police Department for SROs, which was previously vetted in subcommittee.
• Approval of the School Resource Officers Memorandum of Understanding. — passed
  Approval of the School Resource Officers Memorandum of Understanding.
• Green Elementary School Energy Service Agreement
  The committee approved a service agreement with Ameresco for a grant-funded energy project at Green Elementary, expected to lower energy spending by 60% with no cost to taxpayers.
• Approval of the service agreement with Ameresco for the Green Elementary School energy project. — passed
  Approval of the service agreement with Ameresco for the Green Elementary School energy project.
• Approval of an amended motion to hire two nurses and authorize the superintendent to hire a third. — passed
  Approval of an amended motion to hire two nurses and authorize the superintendent to hire a third.
• Appointment of School Nurses
  The committee approved two nurses and, after a candidate rescinded their offer, authorized the superintendent to hire a third nurse without needing a subsequent committee vote.
• Approval of 4 grant contracts (Justice Resource, Katie Brown, etc.). — passed
  Approval of 4 grant contracts (Justice Resource, Katie Brown, etc.).
• Deputy Superintendent Job Description
  The committee approved an updated job description for the Deputy Superintendent, solidifying their oversight of alternative education programs.
• Approval of the Deputy Superintendent job description. — passed
  Approval of the Deputy Superintendent job description.
• Amendment ...

The Fall River School Committee's Finance Subcommittee met to discuss several key financial matters ahead of the new school year. The primary topics included a new waste removal contract, the budgets for the district's alternative education programs, and the end-of-year financial report for fiscal year 2026. Chief Operating Officer Ken Pacheco detailed the new 3-year city contract with Capital Waste, which he said would provide greater accountability through individual weighing of school waste. However, committee members, led by Kevin Aguiar, expressed significant concern that the School Committee had no input on the contract and requested a five-year history of waste removal costs.

A major point of contention arose regarding the budgets for the Evolve, Resiliency Preparatory Academy (RPA), and new virtual school programs. Committee members argued that the administration was reallocating the approximately $3.3 million budget from the former RPA program to create new, separate budgets for the three schools without the required approval of the School Committee, circumventing their budgetary authority. The new CFO, Mr. Petronio, explained he was creating new cost centers and moving budgeted funds as staff were assigned. Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith acknowledged the committee's concerns and committed to providing a full budgetary breakdown for their approval at a future meeting. The CFO also presented the FY26 end-of-year report, which showed a balanced budget, and a comprehensive list of the district's revolving accounts, which sparked a discussion on McKinney-Vento transportation funds and varying school utility costs. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn.

Topics discussed

• Waste Removal Contract
  Ken Pacheco explained the new city contract with Capital Waste, which includes weighing school waste for better accountability. Committee members expressed concern about lack of input and requested historical data.
• Recycling and Composting in Schools
  The committee discussed recycling mandates, the separation of cardboard, and the lack of a composting program, with suggestions to explore composting in the future to reduce waste.
• Special Waste Disposal
  A brief discussion confirmed that special waste, such as from acid waste tanks, is handled by a separate vendor and is not part of the general waste removal contract.
• Repairs and Upgrades at 290 Rock Street
  An update was provided on the status of facility upgrades at 290 Rock Street, which houses the alternative programs, indicating work was nearly complete pending the arrival of some doors.
• Budget for Alternative Programs (Evolve, RPA, Virtual School)
  Committee members raised concerns that the administration was reallocating an approximate $3.3 million budget for three alternative schools without a vote from the School Committee, violating their budgetary authority.
• FY26 End-of-Year Financial Report
  The CFO presented the final financial report for FY26, showing the district balanced its budget to zero, with a $1.2M salary surplus covering a deficit in non-salary contracted services.
• Revolving and Special Revenue Accounts
  The CFO provided a comprehensive list of all school department revolving accounts, which he is in the process of reviewing to determine their status and potential use.
• McKinney-Vento Transportation Funds
  Discussion about the McKinney-Vento revolving account, its $715,000 balance, and how funds are used for transportation reimbursement for homeless students.
• School Heating and Utility Costs
  A committee member questioned the large variance in heating and utility costs between schools, with some bills reaching $20,000.
• Stone Tuition Fund
  A question was raised about the Stone Tuition fund showing no expenditures, despite a vote to purchase vans from it; it was clarified the vans had not been paid for yet.
• Protocol for New Job Descriptions
  It was noted that a new job description was being fast-tracked through the Finance Committee instead of its relevant subcommittee due to the urgency of hiring before school starts.
• Motion to adjourn the Finance Subcommittee meeting. — passed
  Motion to adjourn the Finance Subcommittee meeting.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Historical Commission held its August 18, 2026 meeting, chaired by Rick Mancini. The commission first addressed a demolition and construction request for stairs at 529 High Street. The homeowner, Mary Beth Bulio, explained the existing brick stairs were a safety hazard. The discussion revealed that the city's building inspector, Frank Calario, had issued an order declaring the stairs unsafe, which legally superseded the commission's authority. While expressing concern about the precedent, the commission tabled the matter, allowing the homeowner to proceed with the work while requesting detailed drawings for their records.

The majority of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing requests for letters of support for state and federal historic tax credits. Joel Solomon of Parallel Products presented a $50 million plan to convert the Charlton Mill at 109 House Street into 147 residential units, which was met with approval. Emily Dominiani of Ryan LLC provided updates and secured letters of support for the Sanford Spinning Mill, Algonquin Mills, and Horton Building projects. Similarly, Nathan Kerwin of Heritage Consulting Group received letters of support for four projects: 135 Alden Street, 110 Chase Street, 80-84 Main Street, and 650 Plymouth Avenue.

The commission also handled correspondence, approved its 2027 meeting schedule, and received several updates on ongoing preservation projects. Key updates included the 40C Historic District expansion plan awaiting state approval, the imminent retrieval of the historic Freeman's Purchase marker, ongoing work at the Fire Museum and Little Theater, and the salvaging of artifacts (the Eagle sculpture, bricks, a column, and a jail cell) from the recently demolished police station. The meeting was adjourned at 7:13 PM.

Topics discussed

• Meeting Opening and Roll Call
  The meeting was called to order, the Open Meeting Law notice was read, and a roll call of commissioners was conducted.
• Approval of July 21st Minutes
  The commission unanimously approved the minutes from their previous meeting on July 21st.
• Approval of the July 21st minutes. — passed
  Approval of the July 21st minutes.
• Demolition and Construction at 529 High Street
  Homeowner Mary Beth Bulio presented plans to replace hazardous brick stairs with historically appropriate mahogany stairs. The commission's authority was superseded by a building inspector's order declaring the stairs unsafe, leading the commission to table the item while allowing work to proceed.
• 40C Historic District Expansion Update
  An update was given on the 40C district expansion plan, which is under review by the state. The commission discussed the timeline for public hearings and outreach, which will begin after state approval is received.
• Motion to table the discussion on the demolition and construction at 529 High Street until the September meeting. — tabled
  Motion to table the discussion on the demolition and construction at 529 High Street until the September meeting.
• Charlton Mill (109 House Street) Historic Tax Credit Support
  Joel Solomon of Parallel Products presented a $50 million project to convert the Charlton Mill into 147 residential units. The commission voted to provide a letter of support for state tax credits.
• Motion to provide a letter of support for the Charlton Mill project at 109 House Street. — passed
  Motion to provide a letter of support for the Charlton Mill project at 109 House Street.
• Motion to provide letters of support for the Sanford Spinning Mill, Algonquin Mills, and Horton Building projects. — passed
  Motion to provide letters of support for the Sanford Spinning Mill, Algonquin Mills, and Horton Building projects.
• Ryan LLC Projects Historic Tax Credit Support
  Emily Dominiani of Ryan LLC provided updates on the Sanford Spinning Mill, Algonquin Mills, and Horton Building projects. The commission voted to issue letters of support for all three.
• Heritage Consulting Group Projects Historic Tax Credit Support
  Nathan Kerwin of Heritage Consulting Group gave updates on projects at 135 Alden St, 110 Chase St, 80-84 Main St, and 650 Plymouth Ave. The commission approved letters of support and requested drawings for two of the projects.
• Motion to provide letters of support for projects at 135 Alden Street, 110 Chase Street, 80 & 84 Main Street, and 650 Plymouth Avenue. — passed
  Motion to provide letters of support for projects at 135 Alden Street, 110 Chase Street, 80 & 84 Main Street, and 650 Plymouth Avenue.
• Correspondence Review
  The chair summarized recent inquiries, confirming no historic restrictions apply to 753 Rock Street or a fence at 754 Highland Avenue, and that a request to move a headstone in North Burial Ground was resolved with the headstone remaining in place.
• Family Services CPC Funding Request
  A brief mention that Family Services will be seeking CPC funding for an elevator project and will likely request a letter of support at the September meeting.
• Approval of 2027 Meeting Schedule
  The commission reviewed and unanimously approved the proposed meeting schedule for 2027, setting meetings for the third Tuesday of each month.
• Motion to adopt the proposed 2027 meeting schedule. — passed
  Motion to adopt the proposed 2027 meeting schedule.
• Freeman's Purchase Marker Update
  The commission was informed that final approval has been received to retrieve the historic Freeman's Purchase marker, dating to 1653, and move it to the Historical Society.
• Various Project Updates
  Brief status updates were provided for several ongoing projects: Central Fire Station (no change), Fire Museum (window replacement), Little Theater (roof work), Bioreserve (archaeological research), and the old Police Station (artifacts saved from demolition).
• Motion to adjourn the meeting. — passed
  Motion to adjourn the meeting.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch ...

The Fall River Community Preservation Committee held its annual meeting on August 17, 2026. The meeting began with a roll call of the members present. The committee's financial report was postponed to a future date as the city's CFO was unable to attend. The Chair read a prepared statement reflecting on the committee's progress over the past year, thanking the committee members, applicants, residents, and the administrative aide, Sandy Dennis, for their contributions to preserving the city's historic assets, expanding recreation, and enhancing quality of life through the Community Preservation Act.
The primary order of business was the nomination and election of officers. A motion was made to keep the current chair, vice-chair, and clerk in their positions for another term. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously following a roll call vote of 9-0. After the election, the committee voted to adjourn the annual meeting.

Topics discussed

• Opening of Meeting and Roll Call
  The meeting was called to order, and a roll call was conducted to establish a quorum.
• Financial Report Postponement
  The committee deferred the financial report to a future meeting due to the absence of the city's CFO.
• Chair's Annual Report
  The Chair delivered a prepared statement summarizing the committee's accomplishments, thanking members, city partners, and residents for their collaboration and support of CPA projects.
• Election of Officers
  The committee conducted its annual election of officers, voting to retain the current chair, vice-chair, and clerk for another term.
• A motion to keep the current chair, vice-chair, and clerk in their positions. — passed
  A motion to keep the current chair, vice-chair, and clerk in their positions.
• A motion to adjourn the annual meeting. — passed
  A motion to adjourn the annual meeting.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Community Preservation Committee met to review project extensions, approve annual dues, and set the upcoming funding schedule. The committee approved a two-year extension for Forward Preservation to finish window work and another two-year extension for the Fall River Historical Society's $389,943 roof project, which was delayed to accommodate an HVAC system installation. Requests from the Fall River Arts Association and the Fall River Water Department for its Watuppa Pond seawall and historical documents projects were tabled, with the committee requesting representatives to attend the next meeting to answer questions about project progress.

Al Oliveira, Director of City Operations, provided updates on several city projects seeking extensions. The committee granted a two-year extension for the Central Fire Station facade, a 17-month extension for the Fall River Fire Museum's roof and window projects, a one-year extension for work at the Fall River Veterans Center, and a one-year extension for the School Administration Building window installation. The committee also unanimously approved the payment of $4,350 in annual dues to the Community Preservation Coalition. Finally, the committee established the key dates for the FY28 funding cycle, with eligibility applications due September 9th and funding applications due February 4th.

Topics discussed

• Roll Call
  A roll call of committee members was conducted to establish a quorum.
• Approval of Minutes
  The committee approved the minutes from the June 15th meeting.
• Approval of the minutes from the June 15th meeting. — approved
  Approval of the minutes from the June 15th meeting.
• Forward Preservation Extension Request
  The committee approved a two-year extension for Forward Preservation to complete window work, after one member recused themselves due to a board affiliation.
• A 2-year extension for Forward Preservation. — passed
  A 2-year extension for Forward Preservation.
• Fall River Arts Association Extension Request
  The committee discussed concerns about a lack of progress on the project and voted to table the extension request, requiring a representative to appear at the next meeting.
• Table the extension request for the Fall River Arts Association until the next meeting. — tabled
  Table the extension request for the Fall River Arts Association until the next meeting.
• Fall River Historical Society Extension Request
  A two-year extension was granted for a $389,943 roof project, which was delayed to accommodate the installation of a new HVAC system.
• A 1-year extension for the School Administration Building window project. — passed
  A 1-year extension for the School Administration Building window project.
• A 1-year extension for the Fall River Veterans Center project. — passed
  A 1-year extension for the Fall River Veterans Center project.
• A 2-year extension for the Fall River Historical Society. — passed
  A 2-year extension for the Fall River Historical Society.
• Fall River Water Department Extension Requests
  Extension requests for the Watuppa Pond Seawall historical documents project and the North Watuppa Pond seawalls project were both tabled pending more information and updates.
• Table the extension request for the Fall River Water Department's Watuppa Pond Seawall historical documents project. — tabled
  Table the extension request for the Fall River Water Department's Watuppa Pond Seawall historical documents project.
• Table the extension request for the Fall River Water Department's North Watuppa Pond seawalls project. — tabled
  Table the extension request for the Fall River Water Department's North Watuppa Pond seawalls project.
• DCM Facilities - Fall River Fire Museum Extension
  The committee discussed the progress on the window and roof projects at the Fire Museum, debating the extension length before granting a 17-month extension.
• A 2-year extension for the Fall River DCM facilities Central Fire Station facade project. — passed
  A 2-year extension for the Fall River DCM facilities Central Fire Station facade project.
• DCM Facilities - Central Fire Station Extension
  Al Oliveira provided an update on the Central Fire Station facade project, noting bidding issues but confirming work would proceed. A two-year extension was granted.
• A 17-month extension, until the end of December 2027, for the Fall River Fire Museum roof and window projects. — passed
  A 17-month extension, until the end of December 2027, for the Fall River Fire Museum roof and window projects.
• DCM Facilities - Fall River Veterans Center Extension
  A one-year extension was granted to use remaining funds from a previous roofing project to address asbestos found in the stone caps on the roof.
• DCM Facilities - School Administration Building Extension
  A one-year extension was approved for the school department to complete the installation of already-purchased windows using in-house staff.
• Community Preservation Coalition Dues
  The committee approved the payment of $4,350 for annual membership dues to the statewide Community Preservation Coalition for technical support and advocacy.
• Payment of $4,350 for the FY27 annual membership dues to the Community Preservation Coalition. — passed
  Payment of $4,350 for the FY27 annual membership dues to the Community Preservation Coalition.
• FY28 Funding Schedule
  The committee established the dates for the upcoming FY28 funding cycle, setting deadlines for eligibility applications (Sept. 9), funding applications (Feb. 4), hearings, and deliberations.
• Project Updates
  Members provided updates o...

Welcome to Fall River Now. Here's your look at the week ahead in Fall River city government. The Community Preservation Committee meets twice on Monday evening. At 5 o'clock, the committee will vote on funding extension requests and set funding dates for fiscal year 2028. An hour later at 6 o'clock, members will elect committee officers and hear a financial report from the city finance department. On Tuesday afternoon at 1 o'clock, the Southeastern Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization meets. They plan to vote on releasing two draft plans for a 21-day public comment period, one covering regional congestion management and another on food access and security in transportation. At 5:30 Tuesday evening, the Fall River Cultural Council gathers to review and revise their cultural funding priorities and guidelines for fiscal year 2027. The Historical Commission meets at 6 o'clock on Tuesday. Commissioners will review a request from the parks department to remove a historic headstone from a family plot at the North Burial Grounds, and another from the Cambodian Temple on Highland Avenue about fence repair regulations. The commission will also review support letters for various local mill sites, including Charlton, Sanford, and Algonquin mills, and get updates on the demolition of the Bedford Street Police Station. Wednesday starts at 8:30 in the morning with the Fall River Contributory Retirement Board. The board will review its second-quarter budget, PRIM investment performance, and vote on a retirement application for Steven Desmarais from the Police Department. An executive session is scheduled to discuss disability retirement applications for Jonathan Sousa and Sean Kenyon. The Southcoast Public Health Coalition meets Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock to review its 2026 annual report and vote on proposed spending. At 4 o'clock on Wednesday, the Traffic Board takes up several parking and safety issues. The board will discuss amending the city ordinance on all-night parking for commercial vehicles. Members will also review a request for a traffic safety evaluation on North Main Street, multiple requests for prohibited parking zones on King Street and Wilson Road, and nine applications for new handicap parking spaces. The Licensing Board meets at 5 o'clock Wednesday evening. Agenda items include all-alcohol and common victualler license applications for New Asia One on South Main Street and Taste of Paradise on Pleasant Street. The board will also review a common victualler application for Bajas Fresh Grill Twelve and an entertainment license application from Kara O'Connell for Danny's Dockside on River Street. Finally, on Thursday evening at 5:30, the Zoning Board of Appeals will hear a heavy slate of development requests. Luis Gonsalves is seeking a variance to convert an auto repair facility into a nine-unit multifamily dwelling. Dylan Estates on the River is applying to demolish an existing structure to build a five-story, twelve-unit apartment building. In other business, Broken Glass LLC is asking for a special permit to install a 38-foot by 76-foot electronic sign, and the board will discuss amendments to state zoning laws.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Community Preservation Committee @5:00
• SRPEDD-Southeastern Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization @1:00
• Fall River Cultural Council @5:30 PM
• AGENDA - Historical Commission @ 6PM
• Fall River Contributory Retirement Board @8:30a.m.
• Southcoast Public Health Coalition @2:00
• Traffic Board @ 4PM
• Licensing Board @ 5p.m.
• Zoning Board of Appeals @ 5:30pm

Welcome to Fall River Now. This is our weekly recap for the week ending August 14, 2026, where we cover the most significant local government news.

Topping the news this week, Fall River has officially filled a top municipal post. On Tuesday, the City Council confirmed Ann O'Neil-Souza as City Administrator. Her confirmation came during a packed session that also included hearings on utility work and local business licenses.

Also at the City Council, the Committee on Ordinances and Legislation is weighing a major change to city services. Members advanced a proposal to end municipal trash collection for five- and six-family homes. The committee also heard a citizen pitch to tighten regulations on electric bicycles, with one resident suggesting they be treated like motorcycles.

Over at the School Department, the Facilities and Operations Subcommittee moved forward with a new agreement for School Resource Officers. The updated agreement was drafted in collaboration with the Fall River Police Department. The subcommittee also approved two new administrative positions during its Monday meeting.

In other city business, the Fall River Housing Authority, led by Stephen R. Long, quickly approved a new legal contract and more than 380-thousand dollars in project work. Meanwhile, the Planning Board, chaired by John Ferreira, hit pause on a proposed seven-home development on vacant lots off Box Street. The board tabled the project following concerns raised by residents.

It was also a week of remembrance in Fall River. The city held a solemn ceremony at Bicentennial Park on Purple Hart Day to honor recipients, featuring a special welcome home tribute for World War Two veteran and Fall River native, Army Private First Class Canuel Pacheco. A few days later, residents gathered again at the park for Agent Orange Awareness Day, honoring Vietnam veterans exposed to toxins. On a lighter note, organizers announced the third annual Take Me to the River festival. The free cultural event will return to the Tom Norton Pier.

On the streets, road damage is driving a trend in the city's 3-1-1 system. Reports spiked this week after zero complaints the week prior. Residents flagged two developing sinkholes near Central and Johnson streets, along with a cluster of potholes on Elm Street.

Looking ahead to next week, several city boards are scheduled to meet. The Community Preservation Committee meets Monday evening at One Government Center. On Tuesday, the Historical Commission and the Cultural Council both hold public sessions. Finally, on Wednesday morning, the Contributory Retirement Board convenes, followed by a Fall River Traffic Board meeting at four o'clock to tackle local parking and signage issues.

Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information.

In this episode

• Third Annual 'Take Me to the River' Festival Announced at August 13 Press Conference
• Fall River Planning Board Tables 7-Home Development After Resident Concerns on August 12
• Veterans Honored at Fall River Agent Orange Awareness Day Ceremony on August 10
• Fall River City Council Confirms Ann O'Neil-Souza as City Administrator on August 11
• City Council Committee Advances Proposal to End Trash Collection for 5- and 6-Family Homes on August 11
• Sinkhole Reported Near Central Street
• Sinkhole Reported Near Johnson Street
• Fall River Housing Authority OKs Legal Contract, Over $380,000 in Project Work on August 10
• Potholes Reported on Elm Street Amid Rise in Complaints
• School Subcommittee Advances SRO Pact, Approves Two New Administrative Posts on August 10
• Fall River's Purple Hart Day Ceremony on August 7 Honors WWII Soldier Canuel Pacheco

Patrick Norton, Executive Director of the Narrows Center for the Arts, hosted a press conference to announce the 3rd annual "Take Me to the River" event, a free festival on the Tom Norton Pier. Norton emphasized the event's dual purpose of providing a high-quality cultural experience for all community members regardless of socioeconomic status and boosting the local economy by attracting visitors. He noted that the previous year's event drew 2,000 attendees, with 35% traveling from over 35 miles away. Norton also highlighted the positive impact of the recently completed Route 79 project and the availability of multimodal transportation options, including boats, the MBTA train, and the Fore River Trolley, which enhance access to the venue.

Mayor Paul E. Coogan spoke in support of the event, thanking the Narrows Center and the presenting sponsor, Mechanics Bank. He encouraged residents to attend the free day of food, music, and fun, and credited former Senator Tom Norton for his vision in establishing the pier. A representative from Mechanics Bank, identified as Josh, reiterated the bank's pride in sponsoring the event for the third consecutive year. He formally invited the public to attend on Saturday, August 22nd, at the Tom Norton Pier.

Topics discussed

• 3rd Annual "Take Me to the River" Event Announcement
  The 3rd annual free music festival was announced, with speakers highlighting the improved venue access due to the completed Route 79 project and its growth over the years.
• Community and Economic Impact
  The event was described as a way to build community by being free and accessible, while also bringing new economic activity and tourism dollars to Fall River.
• Event Sponsorship
  Mechanics Bank was announced and thanked as the presenting sponsor, whose financial support makes the free community event possible.
• Transportation and Infrastructure
  The completion of the Route 79 project and the availability of multimodal transport options like boats, the MBTA train, and the Fore River Trolley were discussed as major enhancements for event access.
• Mayoral Endorsement
  Mayor Paul Coogan praised the event, the organizers, and the sponsors, encouraging residents to attend and enjoy the city's waterfront.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Planning Board meeting on August 12, 2026, chaired by John Ferreira, addressed several development projects, tabling the most significant ones for further review. The main item of discussion was a new roadway reconstruction project for vacant lots off Box, Norwood, and Monarch Streets. The project, presented by engineer Alex Karadeski on behalf of owner Timothy DeSova, aims to construct roads and develop seven single-family homes on a property known for its significant ledge. A resident, Jeremy Corriveau, raised numerous concerns regarding the project's history, notification process, traffic impact near Talbot School, and potential damage to nearby homes from ledge removal. City Engineer Daniel Aguiar explained the rationale for the proposed road layout, which aims to eliminate existing dead ends, and noted that the project still requires review from the Department of Community Utilities and the Fire Department. The board voted unanimously to table the matter until the next meeting to allow for this review.

In other business, the board unanimously voted to table three other items pending further information and review: the roadway reconstruction on Spring Street, a request to release lots 1-14 for the King Philip Estate subdivision, and a request for a full release of surety for the Highland Woods subdivision. The board did, however, approve several Form A applications. They endorsed a revised plan for 1300 Newhall Street required by the Massachusetts Land Court, a plan to merge two lots on Jones Street for owner Victor Souza, a plan to subdivide a lot at 99 Jones Street into two conforming lots for Jason DuBois, and a subdivision at 458 Buffington Street for Eric DeMaranville Jr., which had previously received a frontage variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals. The meeting concluded after the approval of the July 8th meeting minutes.

Topics discussed

• Roll Call and Opening Statements
  The meeting was called to order, with statements regarding open meeting law and public comment policy. Roll call was taken, with members Gloria Pacheco, Beth Andre, Michael Farias, Orlando Rodriguez, and John Ferreira present.
• To approve the minutes of the July 8, 2026 meeting. — approved
  To approve the minutes of the July 8, 2026 meeting.
• To adjourn the meeting. — passed
  To adjourn the meeting.
• Roadway Reconstruction, Spring Street
  The board discussed the status of the Spring Street project, noting it was waiting on revised plans from the engineer, and subsequently voted to table it until the September meeting.
• To table the roadway reconstruction plan for Spring Street until the next meeting. — tabled
  To table the roadway reconstruction plan for Spring Street until the next meeting.
• To table the roadway reconstruction application for vacant lots off Box, Norwood, and Monarch Streets until the next meeting. — tabled
  To table the roadway reconstruction application for vacant lots off Box, Norwood, and Monarch Streets until the next meeting.
• Roadway Reconstruction, Box, Norwood, and Monarch Streets
  A preliminary plan for a 7-lot single-family development was presented, involving new road construction to connect several dead-end streets. The project requires extensive ledge removal and is pending review from utilities and other departments.
• Public Comment on Box/Norwood/Monarch Development
  Resident Jeremy Corriveau presented a list of questions and concerns about the development, focusing on the project's history, notification process, traffic, and potential damage to homes with fieldstone foundations due to ledge removal.
• King Philip Estate Subdivision Lot Release
  A request to release lots 1-14 in exchange for a letter of credit was tabled because as-built plans were only just received and require review before a surety amount can be determined.
• To table the request to release lots 1-14 for the King Philip Estate subdivision. — tabled
  To table the request to release lots 1-14 for the King Philip Estate subdivision.
• Highland Woods Subdivision Surety Release
  A request for a full release of the letter of credit for the long-standing Highland Woods subdivision was tabled pending receipt and review of a revised as-built plan.
• To table the request for a full release of surety for the Highland Woods subdivision. — tabled
  To table the request for a full release of surety for the Highland Woods subdivision.
• To endorse the Form A ANR plan for 1300 Newhall Street. — approved
  To endorse the Form A ANR plan for 1300 Newhall Street.
• Form A Plan Endorsement: 1300 Newhall Street
  The board endorsed a revised ANR plan for a property on Newhall Street. The revision was required by the Massachusetts Land Court to add an additional survey monument to the plan.
• Form A Plan Endorsement: Jones Street Lot Merger
  The board endorsed a plan to merge two lots on Jones Street back into one parcel, reversing a previous subdivision, likely to allow for multifamily construction.
• To endorse the Form A ANR plan to subdivide the lot at 99 Jones Street. — approved
  To endorse the Form A ANR plan to subdivide the lot at 99 Jones Street.
• To endorse the Form A ANR plan to merge two lots on Jones Street. — approved
  To endorse the Form A ANR plan to merge two lots on Jones Street.
• Form A Plan Endorsement: 99 Jones Street Subdivision
  The board endorsed a plan to subdivide a large parcel at 99 Jones Street into two lots, both of which meet zoning requirements for frontage and area.
• To endorse the Form A ANR plan to subdivide the lot at 458 Buffington Street. — approved
  To endorse the Form A ANR plan to subdivide the lot at 458 Buffington Street.
• Form A Plan Endorsement: 458 Buffington Street Subdivision
  The board endorsed a plan to subdivide a parcel on Buffington Street, creating a new lot that had previously received a frontage variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
• Approval ...

A ceremony was held at Bicentennial Park in Fall River for Agent Orange Awareness Day to honor Vietnam veterans and all veterans exposed to toxins. The event began with an opening prayer by Reverend Rob, who asked for comfort and healing for those affected. The main speaker, identifying himself as a regional director for the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), then provided a detailed history of the chemical defoliants used during the Vietnam War, including Agents Pink, Purple, Blue, White, and Orange. He detailed the millions of gallons sprayed and the development of the toxins by companies like Monsanto and Dow Chemical Company through British and American collaboration.

The speaker discussed the vast impact of the exposure, citing a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) presumption that over 5.3 million service members who served in Vietnam between January 1962 and May 1975 were exposed. He also touched upon the devastating effects on the Vietnamese population, with estimates of 4.8 million people exposed and up to six generations suffering from health issues. He noted that while Vietnam veterans had to wait decades for recognition and benefits, their advocacy paved the way for current service members exposed to toxins to receive care more quickly. The ceremony concluded with a final prayer from Reverend Rob, remembering the fallen and those still suffering, and a call to continue supporting all veterans.

Topics discussed

• Agent Orange Awareness Day Ceremony Opening
  The ceremony began at Bicentennial Park to honor veterans exposed to Agent Orange and other toxins during the Vietnam War.
• Opening Prayer
  Reverend Rob delivered an opening prayer, asking for comfort and healing for veterans and their families affected by toxic exposure.
• History and Impact of Agent Orange
  A speaker detailed the history of various chemical agents used in Vietnam, including the quantities sprayed and their development for military use.
• Statistics on Veteran and Civilian Exposure
  The speaker presented statistics from the VA, stating over 5.3 million U.S. veterans are presumed exposed, and discussed the multi-generational impact on millions in Vietnam.
• Legacy of Vietnam Veterans' Advocacy
  The speaker reflected on how the struggle of Vietnam veterans for recognition and benefits has helped pave the way for current service members exposed to toxins.
• Closing Prayer
  Reverend Rob delivered a closing prayer, giving thanks for the remembrance and asking for blessings upon all veterans and their families.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River City Council meeting on August 11, 2026, consisted of a public hearing, a Committee on Finance meeting, and a full council session. The meeting began with a public hearing on an auto body shop license, a utility pole installation, and a curb removal, all of which were later approved by the full council. The Committee on Finance meeting featured a commendation for Juliana Madera, a high school student who raised $35,000 via a GoFundMe for residents displaced by a fire on Hick Street. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to resident concerns about the dangerous condition of Aruta Lane, a private road in Tiverton that provides the only access for 20 Fall River households on Greenleaf and Judge Streets. After discussion on the jurisdictional complexities, the council passed a resolution to refer the matter to the Committee on Public Works and Transportation.

The council also received extensive updates on the Route 79 corridor project. Director of Engineering Dan Aguiar discussed the final construction punch-list items, while Ken Fiola of the Bristol County Economic Development Consulting detailed the state's bidding process for the 19 acres of new developable land. Multiple councilors expressed strong disappointment that the city would not have a representative on the state's committee for selecting the developer, despite being a key partner in the project. During the full council meeting, Ann O'Neil-Souza was officially confirmed as the new City Administrator by a 7-0-1 vote. The council also approved a $6,883,400 loan order for repairs and renovations to the 3rd Street parking garage. An Open Meeting Law complaint filed by School Committee member Collin R. Dias against the council, alleging intimidation by Corporation Counsel Alan Rumsey, was referred to the law department for review. Various other licenses, ordinances, and administrative items were also addressed.

Topics discussed

• Public Hearing: Auto Genie LLC Auto Body Shop License
  A public hearing was held for an auto body shop license at 235 John Street. The applicant's attorney, Peter Salino, explained they had already received a variance from the ZBA.
• License to operate an auto body shop at 235 John Street for Auto Genie LLC was approved. — approved
  License to operate an auto body shop at 235 John Street for Auto Genie LLC was approved.
• Petition for jointly owned pole locations on South Beacon Street was approved. — approved
  Petition for jointly owned pole locations on South Beacon Street was approved.
• Public Hearing: National Grid/Verizon Pole Installation
  A hearing was held for the installation of three new poles and two anchors on South Beacon Street to provide power to a new 17-home condo development.
• Public Hearing: Curb Removal at 89 McDonald Street
  Property owner Nelson Cabral requested to widen a curb opening from approximately 10 feet to 25 feet to improve driveway access and encourage off-street parking.
• Citation for Juliana Madera
  The City Council recognized student Juliana Madera with a citation for organizing a GoFundMe that raised $35,000 for victims of the Hick Street fire.
• Aruta Lane Road Conditions
  Resident Jennifer Dutra and her neighbors from Greenleaf and Judge Streets requested help addressing the dangerous condition of Aruta Lane, their only access road. The council discussed the jurisdictional issue, as the road is a private lane in Tiverton, and ultimately referred the matter to the Public Works committee.
• Zoning Amendment Petition Correction
  Resident Ian Tompkins addressed the council regarding his zoning amendment petition, which was not sent to the planning board in time. He agreed to accept a refund of his fees and resubmit a revised petition later.
• Loan order for $6,883,400 for repairs to the 3rd Street Garage was adopted by the full council. — passed
  Loan order for $6,883,400 for repairs to the 3rd Street Garage was adopted by the full council.
• Loan Order for 3rd Street Parking Garage
  A loan order for $6,883,400 for repairs, renovations, and maintenance of the 3rd Street parking garage was discussed and ultimately approved by the full council. The work is hoped to be completed by November.
• Loan order for $6,883,400 for the 3rd Street parking garage was referred from the Committee on Finance to the full council. — referred
  Loan order for $6,883,400 for the 3rd Street parking garage was referred from the Committee on Finance to the full council.
• Route 79 Corridor Construction Update
  Director of Engineering Dan Aguiar provided an update on the Route 79 project, noting that it is about 90% complete. He detailed ongoing work on punch list items and safety enhancements for shared-use path crossings, which MassDOT agreed to reconstruct to original specifications.
• Route 79 Land Development Plan
  Ken Fiola briefed the council on MassDOT's invitation to bid for the development of the 19-acre Route 79 corridor. Councilors expressed significant concern and disappointment that the city will not have a representative on the state's proposal evaluation committee.
• Appointment of City Administrator
  The City Council confirmed the Mayor's appointment of Ann O'Neil-Souza as the new City Administrator.
• Confirmation of the appointment of Ann O'Neill-Souza as City Administrator. — approved
  Confirmation of the appointment of Ann O'Neill-Souza as City Administrator.
• A request to reconsider a zoning map amendment petition was accepted and placed on file, effectively granting the petitioner a refund. — approved
  A request to reconsider a zoning map amendment petition was accepted and placed on file, effectively granting the petitioner a refund.
• Former Police Station Update
  A communication from the interim city administrator regarding updates on the former police station on Bedford Street was accepted and placed on file.
• Handicapped Parking Ordinance
  The council passed a proposed ordinance for handicapped parking through all readings with an emergency preamble.
• Adoption of an emergency preamble for a proposed ordinance on handicapped parking. &mda...

The Fall River City Council Committee on Ordinances & Legislation convened to discuss several proposed ordinances and a resolution. The meeting began with citizen input from Alphonse Hathaway, who proposed stricter regulations for electric bicycles, suggesting they be treated like motorcycles with requirements for registration, insurance, licensing, and increased fines for violations. The committee then discussed a proposed ordinance concerning all-night parking for commercial vehicles. Stephanie MacArthur, Director of Traffic and Parking, answered questions about enforcement based on vehicle weight versus commercial plates. Councilors raised concerns about emergency service vehicles and the definition of a commercial vehicle. The item was ultimately tabled for the traffic department to revise it based on suggestions regarding vehicle length and emergency carve-outs.

The most significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a proposed ordinance to eliminate city solid waste collection for 5 and 6-family properties. Special Counsel Matt Thomas presented a detailed financial analysis, comparing the city's potential costs to provide the service ($317.50 per quarter for one 95-gallon bin) versus private haulers like E.L. Harvey ($225 per quarter) and United States Bins ($262.36 per quarter). The discussion was contentious, with councilors debating the fairness of the proposal, the financial impact on tenants, and the potential for the city to offer a paid opt-in service. A motion to table the item failed in a 2-3 vote. Subsequently, a motion to recommend the ordinance be passed to a second reading was approved with a 3-2 vote.

Finally, the committee addressed a resolution regarding the City Council's authority to approve department head contract renewals for terms less than three years. After it was revealed that the Mayor's administration had verbally agreed to bring any such contracts back before the council, the committee voted to table the resolution. The meeting was then adjourned.

Topics discussed

• Citizen Input on Bicycle and E-Bike Laws
  A resident, Alphonse Hathaway, proposed a new ordinance to regulate electric bikes like motorcycles, requiring registration, insurance, and licenses, and suggested increasing the fine for riding on sidewalks.
• Approval of Meeting Minutes
  The committee approved the minutes from the July 23, 2026 meeting.
• Approval of the minutes from the July 23rd, 2026 meeting. — passed
  Approval of the minutes from the July 23rd, 2026 meeting.
• Motion to lift item 3 (commercial vehicle parking ordinance) from the table. — passed
  Motion to lift item 3 (commercial vehicle parking ordinance) from the table.
• Motion to table the proposed ordinance for all-night parking of commercial vehicles. — passed
  Motion to table the proposed ordinance for all-night parking of commercial vehicles.
• Commercial Vehicle Parking Ordinance
  The committee discussed an ordinance to regulate overnight parking of commercial vehicles, debating definitions, enforcement, and potential impacts on emergency services. The item was tabled for revision.
• Motion to table the proposed ordinance amending solid waste collection. — failed
  Motion to table the proposed ordinance amending solid waste collection.
• Solid Waste Collection for 5 & 6-Family Homes
  A lengthy debate occurred over a proposal to eliminate city trash collection for 5 and 6-family homes, with discussion on financial impacts, equity, and comparisons to private sector costs. The committee ultimately voted to recommend the ordinance.
• Motion to recommend the ordinance amending solid waste collection be passed through second reading and enrollment. — passed
  Motion to recommend the ordinance amending solid waste collection be passed through second reading and enrollment.
• Council Authority on Department Head Contracts
  A resolution to give the council approval power over contract renewals of less than three years was discussed and tabled, following a report of a verbal agreement with the mayor on the matter.
• Motion to table the resolution regarding city council's authority over department head contract renewals. — passed
  Motion to table the resolution regarding city council's authority over department head contract renewals.
• Motion to adjourn the meeting. — passed
  Motion to adjourn the meeting.

Links

• Read the meeting summary
• Watch the full meeting

The Fall River Housing Authority Commission held a brief meeting, lasting approximately 15 minutes. The board, led by Chairman Stephen R. Long, moved quickly through a series of routine approvals, including the minutes from the July 13, 2026 meeting, bills and vouchers, and various management and financial reports for June 2026. All these items were passed unanimously without discussion.

Executive Director Mr. Spadella provided an update, inviting the commissioners to the annual employee cookout. He highlighted two significant achievements: the Section 8 department, led by Carrie Farias, received a perfect score of 100 on its SEMAP assessment, earning a "high performer" designation. Additionally, the authority's state properties received an outstanding score of 92 on their annual performance management review. Mr. Spadella and Chairman Long publicly thanked the staff involved for their excellent work. The commission then approved several modernization items, including a certificate of completion for electrical upgrades at the Edward F. Doolin Apartments for $153,340, certificates of final completion for site improvements at three locations totaling $116,275, and a change order for fire-damaged apartments at Maple Gardens increasing a contract by $115,415.79. Finally, the board approved a new three-year contract with KP Law for labor attorney services at a rate of $255 per hour, not to exceed $50,000 annually.

Topics discussed

• Call to Order and Roll Call
  The meeting was called to order and roll call was taken, establishing a quorum with Commissioner Burns noted as absent.
• Citizen and Resident Input
  The chair opened the floor for citizen and resident input, but no members of the public or residents came forward to speak.
• Approval of Minutes, Vouchers, and Reports
  The commission quickly and unanimously approved the minutes from the July 13, 2026 meeting, bills and vouchers, management reports, June 2026 financial reports, and the quarterly modernization report.
• To accept the minutes of the regular meeting held on July 13th, 2026. — passed
  To accept the minutes of the regular meeting held on July 13th, 2026.
• Motion to adjourn the meeting. — passed
  Motion to adjourn the meeting.
• To accept the bills and communication vouchers. — passed
  To accept the bills and communication vouchers.
• To accept the management reports as stated. — passed
  To accept the management reports as stated.
• To accept the monthly financial reports for June 2026. — passed
  To accept the monthly financial reports for June 2026.
• To approve the state quarterly modernization report for the period ending 6/30/26. — approved
  To approve the state quarterly modernization report for the period ending 6/30/26.
• Executive Director's Report
  Executive Director Mr. Spadella invited commissioners to an employee cookout and praised staff for achieving a perfect score of 100 on the Section 8 SEMAP assessment and a score of 92 on the state performance review.
• Certificate of Completion: Doolin Apartments Electrical Upgrades
  The board approved the certificate of completion for electrical work at Doolin Apartments, with a final contract amount of $153,340 paid to MV Electrical Contractors, Inc.
• To approve the certificate of completion for electrical infrastructure upgrades at Doolin Apartments with a final contract amount of $153,340. — approved
  To approve the certificate of completion for electrical infrastructure upgrades at Doolin Apartments with a final contract amount of $153,340.
• Certificate of Final Completion: Site Improvements & Tree Removal
  The board approved certificates of final completion for site work at Maple Gardens ($27,355), Elmer Corbett Street ($41,125), and Bullock Oak Grove Avenue ($47,795).
• To approve the certificate of final completion for site improvements and tree removal at Maple Gardens ($27,355), Elmer Corbett Street ($41,125), and Bullock Oak Grove Avenue ($47,795), contingent upon final approval of EOHLC. — approved
  To approve the certificate of final completion for site improvements and tree removal at Maple Gardens ($27,355), Elmer Corbett Street ($41,125), and Bullock Oak Grove Avenue ($47,795), contingent upon final approval of EOHLC.
• Approval of Security Camera Software at Maple Gardens
  The commission approved a request to designate the Hanwha Wave video management software as a priority item for the security camera installation at Maple Gardens.
• To approve the Hanwha Wave video management software for security camera installation at Maple Gardens. — approved
  To approve the Hanwha Wave video management software for security camera installation at Maple Gardens.
• Change Order for Maple Gardens Fire Damage Repair
  A change order was approved to increase a contract by $115,415.79 to cover the costs of reconstructing two fire-damaged apartments, including demolition and abatement.
• To approve change order number 5 for Maple Gardens, increasing the contract amount by $115,415.79 for reconstruction of fire-damaged apartments, contingent upon EOHLC approval. — approved
  To approve change order number 5 for Maple Gardens, increasing the contract amount by $115,415.79 for reconstruction of fire-damaged apartments, contingent upon EOHLC approval.
• To award a 3-year contract to KP Law for labor attorney services at an hourly rate of $255, not to exceed $50,000 annually, with two 1-year renewal options. — approved
  To award a 3-year contract to KP Law for labor attorney services at an hourly rate of $255, not to exceed $50,000 annually, with two 1-year renewal options.
• Labor Attorney Services Contract
  The board awarded a three-year contract to KP Law for labor attorney services at a rate of $255 per hour, not to exceed $50,000 per year, with two one-year renewal options.

Links

• Read the meeting summary