Only two residents showed up to ask questions for the Ascertainment Hearing at the Mattapoisett Board of Selectmen’s regular meeting on Tuesday, September 11 in the Mattapoisett Library. The hearing was held to hear resident’s concerns regarding the upcoming five-year contract that the town will be signing with Comcast regarding cable television access.
Both residents expressed a desire to inquire the possibility of getting basic cable while also getting some cable channels a la carte. They are not interested in paying for the 15 – 20 channels that they do not use.
“Is there any way we can unbundle some of the channels a la carte instead of paying an exorbitant fee?” asked Mattapoisett resident Herb Webb.
There were no Comcast representatives on site to answer questions; however, a stenographer recorded the questions to bring back to the company so they can keep them in mind during contract negotiations. Mattapoisett signed a contract with Comcast in 2008 for five years. In 2013, they will need to renew their contract.
In other news, the Board approved a motocross event to be held on October 28, 2012 at the Mattapoisett Landfill. After a successful event last spring, Bruce Rocha, Jr. is hoping to repeat the event in the fall and potentially again in April 2013.
“It was all positive feedback,” said Selectman Jordan Collyer. “Everybody was pleased. The conditions were good. There was no damage reported.”
The Board also approved a 5K that is tentatively planned for next October. The 3.2-mile race will benefit the Healing Little Hearts Organization. The organization raises money for pediatric cardiac research for the Children’s Hospital in Boston. Kelly Weglowski and her husband Marc started the organization in 2007 when their son Brady was born with a rare heart defect. Kelly will team up with Kathleen McArdle to coordinate the event
“I think it would be great event for the town,” said Weglowski.
Recreation Department Chairman Jeremy Collier met with the Board to give an update on Fall/Winter programs for the town of Mattapoisett. Residents can look forward to adult yoga and cooking classes this coming winter. Also, gymnastics, Irish step dancing, hip-hop dance and Special Olympics will be available for children starting this fall.
“We’ve been very hard at work. We’ve got a refreshed board. We want to know what the town wants,” he said.
Collier also mentioned that the Recreation Department is seeking two members to fill vacancies.
On Sunday, October 14 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm, a Scallop Fest will be held in Shipyard Park. A variety of seafood will be available for purchase and entertainment will be provided. All proceeds raised will benefit the Town Tree Lighting.
The Mattapoisett Board of Selectmen will meet again on Tuesday, September 25 at 7:00 pm in Mattapoisett Town Hall.
By Katy Fitzpatrick