The November 19 meeting of the Mattapoisett Select Board found the board fielding questions regarding the selection of Luke Mello as the new Animal Control officer.
Earlier in the proceedings when the agenda item… “possible vote to fill the position” was discussed, Town Administrator Mike Lorenco explained the process used to evaluate two candidates vying for the position. That explanation was followed up with a statement released by Lorenco on November 21. It stated, “The town is issuing this statement regarding the hiring process for the natural resource officer position.”
After extensive consideration, the town posted the position when employment terms could not be mutually agreed upon with an internal candidate as outlined during the November 19 meeting of the Select Board. The town followed the Police Department’s standard interview process to evaluate applicants.
The interview panel consisted of long-term town employees collectively bringing more than 60 years of service to the community, as well as an external representative from a neighboring community. Two of the town employees on the panel are also residents of Mattapoisett, ensuring both professional and local perspectives were represented. Following the panel’s unanimous recommendation, the Select Board moved forward with the appointment, announcing the selection of Mello.
The notice went on to say, “Thomas Gomes is currently a town employee, his existing position has not been eliminated as part of this process. No further comment will be made as the town does not discuss personnel matters beyond the information provided in this release.” Gomes has been performing Animal Control duties.
In other business, the board held a tax classification public hearing, beginning with Chair of the Board of Assessors Ray Andrews and Administrator of Assessing Mia Robertson. After a presentation, it was decided to maintain a single tax rate, which has historically been in place. It was noted that for fiscal year 2026, there was around $2,000,000,000 in real property and that the average home price was $805,000 for a single-family home with an average tax bill of $8,000. New growth stood at $46,000,000.
An update from Charles Engineering regarding Long Wharf was on the agenda. The report stated that the firm has been working on securing permits from various agencies. Select Board member Tyler Macallister asked when construction might begin, given that the project has been on the drawing board since 2012. The board was told that that project is in the design phase and that cost estimates will follow after design is finalized.
Member Jodi Bauer asked how the project will be funded. Lorenco said grants will be sought.
The Select Board also approved a variety of licenses, primarily for the sale and consumption of wine and spirits. Lorenco said that inspection of such establishments will take place before licenses are issued.
Visit the town’s website for details on the tax rate and economic data at www.mattapoisett.gov/157/Assessors.
The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Select Board is scheduled for Tuesday, December 9.
Mattapoisett Select Board & Board of Assessors
By Marilou Newell