Molly’s Cove, located off Anchorage Way and Tara Road, has been on the town’s and the Mattapoisett Land Trust’s radar for a number of years. A compromised culvert and the possible flooding issue during storms are just two of the concerns facing the water feature, but help may on the way at long last.
MLT president Mike Huguenin came before the Select Board on June 25 to ask if the MLT could move forward seeking a grant from the Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program. He explained that the grant application requires the municipal partnerships but that management of the project and preparation of the grant will fall to the MLT.
From Huguenin’s written description, he stated that a paved section would be removed since the road is not necessary. In fact, the road alters the natural north-south flow of the original, forested wetlands.
Grants awarded from the program range from $60,000 to $90,000. Huguenin said that, by allowing a more natural flow to return, invasive plant species could be better controlled. Plans would include preparing a report on existing conditions, followed by creation of a restoration plan and careful interfacing of restored wetlands.
The board approved the MLT’s pursuit of a grant.
Later in the proceedings, it was noted by resident Bonne DaSousa that the town has received a Mass Trails grant in the amount of $202,000 to be used in support of engineered plans for the next phase of the bike path.
The agenda included discussion of the soon-to-be-created committee for the village street project. However, Select Board members wished to table the matter until the full board was seated. Absent this night was Tyler Macallister. There were questions from interested parties regarding how the new committee members will be selected and if there is a schedule for next steps.
Highway Surveyor Garrett Bauer said, “There’s nothing to discuss until the 25-percent (design) is done.” Collyer said of the town’s engineering firm, “We are overdue to have VHB come in and talk about their subpar performance.”
A request by the Old Rochester Regional High School Alumni Association for a one-day liquor license was denied. The board was in agreement that alcohol is not allowed on school grounds.
A request from the Lions Club to add three more Harbor Days events (a flower fundraiser, a children’s movie night, and an event from the Mattapoisett Museum) were all approved.
The board accepted the donation of a service window from a local glass vendor. The board also heard from Kate Sousa regarding early plans for a 50th anniversary celebration of Survival at Ned’s Point sometime in August.
The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Select Board is scheduled for Tuesday, July 9, at a time to be announced.
Mattapoisett Select Board
By Marilou Newell