The League of Women Voters South Coast hosted a candidates’ night on April 30 at Old Hammondtown School for those seeking election in Mattapoisett’s local elections scheduled for Tuesday, May 20.

            Kris Eastman of the LWV spoke before passing to Moderator Jack Eklund, the recently retired moderator for the Town of Mattapoisett. Eklund, also a member of the LWV, is an attorney and is keeping a busy schedule moderating candidates’ nights across Massachusetts. He also was moderator of Marion’s candidates’ night the day prior.

            The moderator assured the public that all candidates running were invited, though some did not respond. Candidates who participated are seeking election to Town Assessor, Mattapoisett School Committee, Trustees of the Public Library, and two contested races for Board of Health and Old Rochester Regional School Committee.

            In the race for a seat on the Board of Health. Douglas Schneider appeared against Michele Bernier, who is running for re-election. Bernier introduced herself first, saying she bought her current home on Pearl Street in 1987 and commuted to Boston for many years before transitioning to real estate and meeting locals. She was elected to the Select Board, serving from 1996 to 1999.

            “I enjoyed the policy side of government – I got hired as the assistant town administrator in North Attleboro,” noted Bernier, who worked in that position for 20 years until saying her work as solid-waste manager, a role she enjoyed, took up most of her time. This, she said, is what brought her to the Board of Health.

            Schneider spoke next, remarking on moving to the area in 1975 and graduating from ORR. He described his work in commercial development, being a civil engineer, registered land surveyor, certified soil evaluator, and certified septic-system inspector.

            There were four questions asked of the candidates. The first was a multi-part, being: “What are the responsibilities of the Mattapoisett Board of Health? Why are you seeking the position, and what knowledge or skills do you bring to the Board of Health?”

            Schneider answered first, primarily focusing on his experience in community development and desire to learn the job. He also mentioned his daughter being a nurse and looking to draw on and do right by her.

            Bernier went next, speaking of the importance and connection of the Board of Health and its visibility in town with them coming to your home, should a concern arise.

            The second question was: “If elected, what do you hope to accomplish during your three-year term on the Board of Health?” Bernier went first, stating a swap shop is opening soon at the transfer station that she wishes to support. She also mentioned finding new markets for recycled cardboard, as China is no longer viable. Bernier also stated she wants to help in the development of a compost program. Schneider again emphasized his desire to learn but said he has “no specific agenda to accomplish.” He added, “I just want to do what’s best for the town.”

            The third question was: “As a member of the Mattapoisett Board of Health, how would you address any conflict-of-interest issues that may arise in the course of performing your duties on behalf of the town?”

            Schneider answered first, stating, “I feel this question may be addressed to me because I used to run a business in town.” He said he solely does work on Cape Cod and no longer conducts any business in Mattapoisett. Bernier also stated she does not work in town and would face no conflict of interest.

            The final question was: “What are some of the major challenges or concerns that the Board of Health may have to handle within the next two-to-five years, and will the Board of Health have the bandwidth to deal with these challenges or concerns?”

            Bernier answered first, saying she would like to see the board increase membership from three members to five. She also said the hiring of a new Public Health nurse is paramount, with the current nurse leaving soon. Schneider answered next, focusing on regulations regarding the “extremely expensive” septic systems featuring denitrification technology. He stated regulations regarding these systems is forthcoming.

            The candidates running for the ORR School Committee were next to speak. Both candidates are running for the first time for a three-year term. They also had four questions to answer.

            Nina Datshkovsky-Ennis spoke first, saying she wanted to “support every child’s potential academically, physically, and emotionally.” Being a mother of two boys who attended ORR schools, she emphasized the importance of sports and after-school programs. She also discussed her multicultural background, stating that being of Mexican/American descent with Ukrainian-Jewish and Spanish-Catholic heritage gives her a unique and strong appreciation for different cultures.

            Betsy Stewart spoke next, citing her skills as a leader with business-resource management as an important factor. She stated she wants to accelerate learning growth and lessen the town’s tax burden.

            The first question was: “What are the responsibilities of the School Committee? What inspired you to run for the School Committee and what unique perspectives or skills do you bring to the role?” Stewart highlighted the importance of the School Committee’s role in public relations and communication between schools and the public, with Datshkovsky-Ennis also focused on communication, saying it was crucial to policy change and approval.

            The second question was: “As a member of the ORR School Committee, what do you see as your role in ensuring safety for all students, maintaining academic standards while also allowing parental control over what students learn?” Datshkovsky-Ennis spoke first, saying she values the importance of balance with a focus on clear policy and staff training. For parents, she is an advocate for transparency and partnership. Stewart listed many policies and procedures the schools already do to keep kids safe but mentioned the importance of building and HVAC upkeep.

            The third question was: “How would you prioritize educational programs and operational needs when federal funding to the state has been cut off, and what plans do you have to seek alternative funding sources to address gaps left by the federal funding shortfall?” Stewart dismissed worries of federal funding cuts, emphasizing Massachusetts’s independence and reliance on the federal government for 5% of funding. Her priorities for funding are staffing and staff healthcare. She also spoke of the importance of maintaining student services and Individual Education Plans. Datshkovsky-Ennis focused on Title 1 and the protection of low-income families, also stating that she is not concerned with a lack in federal funding. She would prioritize teacher support, special education, and classroom needs.

            The final question was: “The Massachusetts Civil Learning Coalition reported (a) 2015 survey of Massachusetts District Superintendents found that 60% rated levels of civil learning in their districts as ‘insufficient,’ and 65% reported offering few or limited or occasional opportunities for civic learning. What do you know about the civil learning opportunities offered and taught at ORR?”

            Datshkovsky-Ennis began, “we can do better.” She wants more hands-on curriculum and mock debates. She added, “We must raise students to be informed and engaged citizens with respect for diverse perspectives and a commitment to the democratic process.” Stewart followed, focusing on cooperation with new state-led initiatives and more community participation. She also approves of lower-grade programs to build up a “strong base” so more advanced topics can be tackled in high school.

            Before the candidates in the two contested races spoke, the audience heard from other candidates for public office.

            The first candidate to address the audience was Cary LeBlanc, running unopposed for town assessor. LeBlanc is running for her fifth term and stated she has sat on the board for 15 years. She stated her parents and grandparents were born and raised in Mattapoisett, with her living in the town since high school. LeBlanc emphasized her desire to give back to the town and mentioned she, in conjunction with her duties for the town, has worked as a residential real estate attorney for 24 years in Marion.

            Next was Mackenzie Emmons, running for one of two open seats on the Mattapoisett School Committee. Emmons spoke on the importance of keeping kids safe in school and remarked on her work in special education for 16 years. For the last seven years, she has served as a BCBA (board certified behavior analyst). She stated, “throughout my career, I focused and deeply rooted ethically in representing individualized education for children with developmental disabilities and behavior disorders.” She also serves as the vice president of the Mattapoisett PTA and a youth basketball coach. She had also served on the NCAA’s Student Athletic Advisory Committee before her professional career. Also running is Cristin Cowles, who was not present.

            Jeanne Hopkins, running for Library Trustee, was up next, who began by quoting Michelle Obama, saying, “I want to state Michelle Obama recently reminded us, ‘if you don’t like what you see happening, do something about it.’” She spoke of the importance of libraries to her and of receiving her first library card at the age of five. In terms of her motivation for running, she said, “I believe in keeping our library strong, well supported, and responsive to the needs of everyone in our town.”

            Eklund stated that mail-in ballot requests must be completed by Friday, May 9, with the last day to vote by mail being May 13 at 5:00 pm. The Mattapoisett Town Election will be held on Tuesday, May 20, from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm at Old Hammondtown School.

Mattapoisett Candidates Night

By Sam Bishop

            The Marion Planning Board met on Monday night to hold a continued public hearing for a special permit request that would allow an association pier for two dwellings at 61 and 63 Oakdale Avenue. After last hearing on April 22, the construction representative declared a series of changes had been made from last meeting.

            Firstly, the length of the pier had been shrunk about 40 feet; to 96 feet, down from 127 feet. To accommodate kayakers, the pier plans elevated the pier by 5 feet about the waterline. There would also be added lighting to define the pier to channel users. Instead of a ramp down the hill from the shore, stairs would be installed. After the talk of plan changes, a lengthy discussion was carried out between the properties’ representative, members of the public, and board members.

            Member Dale Jones had been to the sight and talked to the Harbormaster. Speaking of the aforementioned alterations to the plan, he said, “these adjustments should work a lot better.” He added, “I think this is a good compromise.”

            Following Jones’ comments, members Ryan Burke and Doug Guey-Lee discussed the creation and legality of the proposed association. 61 and 63 Oakdale Avenue would form an association for joint use of the pier. There had been questions as to the reasoning for the association creation at the last Planning Board meeting, with Chair Daniels having said an association seemed like a “loophole.”

            Clerk Eileen J. Marum questioned pier orientation. She was answered east-west. The Clerk said it should really be north-west facing, as sunlight interference would be minimized to protect marine life. There were also other concerns levied for marine life and wildlife. The property representative said he had already gone through numerous channels and received certifications from the Army Corp of Engineer and the Conservation Commission, “which cover a lot of your concerns.” It was also asked whether the construction and final product would “minimize impacts to sensitive habitats?” The representative stated the position of the pylons is at the minimum number to reduce interference. A neighbor later stated they had seen osprey and worried of the pier’s impact on them.

            A member of the public and neighbor on Oakdale rose, saying “It is not two single-family homes.” He carried, stating the two properties contain a two-family dwelling, an auxiliary dwelling, and another single-family dwelling unit.

            Another local spoke of there being no large piers on Hammetts Cove currently. “The western shore is very congested” though there is no current construction on the east side. They also defended the public beach, saying the pier may be too close to the beach legally. They added the lot is non-conforming for a pier.

            Land-based herbivores also migrate along the shore, another abutter said. “If you allow this owner to have a pier, other owners can as well.” They added, “who’s gonna police who’s on the pier?” citing the increased need of harbormaster resources to monitor pier usage and safety.

            A member of the public was upset by there only being one member of the two properties present, arguing it’s “not an association” due to no other member of it being present. Also, there was discussion over wording in the Special Permit request. A section mentioned giving power to the property the pier would be built on to dictate the times of other members of the association can access it. The member said it did not seem like a fair and equal agreement.

A final neighbor worried of the change of environmental views. They stated the view of the cove would be impaired, “like building a bridge across the cove.” They also cited “the largest pier Hammetts Cove is something like 50 feet.”

            Andrew Daniel then arrived later into the meeting. He mentioned having spoken with Town Council regarding the pier’s practicality and legality. He stated the pier would not conform to existing bylaws. A continuance was requested due to these concerns and the others. Member Ryan Burke said, “I don’t see this in front of us as something that should be continued – or considered.” That being said, the request was continued for June 2 with a vote of 5 for and 2 against.

            The next meeting of the Marion Planning Board will be on Monday, May 19 at 7:00 pm in the Marion Police Department.

Marion Planning Board

By Sam Bishop

            The Marion Select Board met on Tuesday for a long list of action items and correspondences, which served as their last meeting before the Annual Town Meeting scheduled on the following Monday (May 12).

            Before adjournment, it was announced that this was Vice Chair Carleton “Toby” Burr Jr.’s last regular meeting of the Select Board. He received an ovation from the room and thanks from many.

            Following the approval of minutes from their April 15 meeting, the board began with a Water/Sewer abatement for 270 Delano Road. It was stated the water meter had not been checked by a representative of the town prior to the meeting. The homeowner was present and stated the typical water bill hovers around $2,500 with the home being seasonally used. The house has recently been winterized after previously having issues. The homeowner said the bill signifies “five weeks of water coming through in a matter of days” with further clarification from Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman signifying 8-gallons-per-minute of usage, that being similar to a running faucet.

            The owner and a family friend who works in construction both stated they found no evidence of the water arriving in the house, nor water damage. Chair Norman Hills pushed for the water meter to be checked and “we’ll get back together.” No decision was made at this time.

            The next item was for a Performance Extension of 30 minutes for Tabor Academy’s alumni weekend on June 7. This was approved unanimously. The board then also approved its Annual Water Restriction Schedule unanimously.

            A discussion began for Town Meeting Warrant Article 17, regarding work on Town House compliance. The chair of the Finance Committee, Shay Assad, was present with other members to discuss their findings.

            “We believe there is going to be substantial capital requirements for the schools. We only should be spending money on what’s absolutely necessary.” Assad and the committee sought to split the costs of the article, that being HVAC, a sprinkler system, and compliance, into different articles to give the people “a choice.” He later cited HVAC installation as 30% of total costs and asked if the town could put out for a re-bid and have the voters decide in the October Town Meeting on separate works.

            “We don’t believe we should be going forward with the package as it’s currently constructed,” said Assad, who then brought up tariffs and the possibility of those affecting costs, or “unknown costs,” he added. “They need to realize there’s going to be some substantial capital costs coming down,” he reiterated, citing Town Counsel’s need to advise the populous on the forthcoming effects of tariffs.

            “Schools aren’t the only thing we’re facing,” Hills added.

            There was a disagreement over the communication of information regarding school-related cost increases between Assad and Select Board member Randy Parker, who was upset that he was only finding out about rising school costs now (Assad cited a $6,000,000 rise). He stated it seemed like an “excuse” to go after Article 17, with Assad opposing the accusation.

            Assad and the Select Board with the town administrator argued over the dissemination of information to each other, with neither party arriving at an agreement. Gorman stated the Finance Committee had received all of the Article 17 bid information “months ago,” with Assad denying anyone had spoken to him directly about it.

            At the end of the discussion, the Select Board agreed to take the Finance Committee’s recommendation but chose not to act and allow voters to decide whether or not to approve the package bid under Article 17. Assad finalized his statements by assuring he has faith in the Marion people and “feels very fortunate” to be able to rely on them to make the decision they feel is right. Finance Committee member Thomas Crowley then spoke, warning of tariff costs and unforeseen consequences of such without knowing any exact protections in the original bid contract.

            The Select Board then approved five Special One Day Alcohol Beverage Licenses. They were for ICJ Corp at the Marion Music Hall on May 17 for a hall of fame induction, for the Marion Social Club at 44 Pumping Station Road on May 31 for a graduation party, for ICJ Corp at the Marion Music Hall on June 7 for a wedding, for the Marion Social Club at 44 Pumping Station Road on July 20 for a pig roast, and finally another for the Marion Social Club at 44 Pumping Station Road on August 17 for a chicken bake.

            The next meeting of the Marion Select Board will take place after the elections and Town Meeting, and is currently scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, at 6:00 pm in the Marion Town House Conference Room.

Marion Select Board

By Sam Bishop