American Rescue Plan funding has been supporting cities and towns since COVID began damaging the financial stability of our country. But use of funds, which is audited, must follow guidelines. Two major areas of spending allowed by the federal government are roads and infrastructure.
On September 1 as the Mattapoisett Select Board met, critical agenda items included the appropriation of APRA funds for roads and computer upgrades.
The board voted to spend $4,539.30 for costs related to Communication Enhancements at Old Rochester Regional High School. These enhancements will allow for improved communication between the school and the Police Department. The board also voted to spend $59,652.34 for costs associated with the installation of a generator at the Housing Authority residences.
The Water and Sewer Department will receive $400,000 for related expenses for a new headquarters building. And last on the agenda list was the approval of $15,000 for technology upgrades such as new laptops and docking stations for municipal employees. Town Administrator Mike Lorenco reported that $90,000 remains in the fund.
Coming before the board was Ken Motta of Field Engineering to bring the board up-to-date on roadway work and sewer construction at the intersection of Pearl and Church Street. Motta said that bid documents are complete and bidding should begin by year’s end.
Regarding impact to residents living in the congested neighborhood, Motta said the driveways for the most part will be smoothly transitioned. He said there will need to be some bushes and possible trees removed, but it was premature to get into those details at this time. The massive sewer/storm water project is being coordinated with the Highway Department and the engineering firm VHB who has been designing the village roads project for several years.
Lorenco also announced that the town has received a grant in the amount of $41,662 for repairs to the Pine Island Culvert. The Police Department has also received a grant in the amount of $20,000 that will be used for training.
Early voting at Town Hall is scheduled for October 19, 8 am to 4 pm, October 21 – October 25, 8 am to 4 pm and October 28 through November 1, 8 am to 4 pm.
Flu clinics will soon be open, but preregistration is required. Visit the town’s website to register. Free COVID test kits are available at Town Hall, Lorenco announced.
Visit the town’s website for scallop fishing details which opens on October 15 for recreational fishing only.
Mattapoisett Select Board
By Marilou Newell