The Rochester Police Department welcomed its newest member of the force on November 5 when the Rochester Board of Selectmen appointed Michelle Donovan as a new part-time officer.
Rochester Police Chief Robert Small made the recommendation to appoint Donovan, who sponsored herself at the part-time police academy and finished two months ago.
“We’ve done a lot of hiring this year and we’ve had all the spots filled,” said Small, adding that Donovan “scored well” on the police exam and has a bachelor’s degree from UMASS Amherst. “She was very ambitious,” continued Small. “She’s been very motivated.”
With her parents, brother, and boyfriend in attendance, Small gave Donovan her badge and congratulated her.
In other matters, the board postponed appointing three names to the Agricultural Commission until Selectman Brad Morse, who was absent this night, could join the board in voting.
The board renewed its annual agreement with the Lakeville Animal Shelter for another year. Szyndlar recommended the renewal, saying, “It’s been working out fine for the town. … This is our best option.”
The board was also pleased to receive an additional $60,000 in Chapter 90 funding from the governor, bringing the total for fiscal year 2019 to just over $362,000.
The launch date for the new textile recycling program provided by WasteZero is December 7. There will be a community access announcement recorded and run on ORCTV, and the Town will be following up by posting the video to its Facebook page and Town website. The service will be provided to the town at no cost to taxpayers.
The next meeting of the Rochester Board of selectmen is scheduled for November 19 at 6:00 pm at the Rochester Town Hall.
Rochester Board of Selectmen
By Jean Perry