The Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s (MASS DOT) report on the status of the East Street and Pine Street bridges were given to the Halifax Highway Department. Town Administrator Charlie Seelig announced the results at last Tuesday’s Board of Selectmen meeting.
The bridge on East Street was deemed “satisfactory” by MASS DOT, Seelig said. There are a few defects that should be fixed, but overall the bridge is in stable condition.
The Pine Street bridge’s condition was is in more dire straits, the report said. According to Seelig, the deficiencies are at a “critical level.”
It’s recommended that the Highway Department hire a design engineering firm to start making a plan to address the bridge. Seelig had not checked in with the Highway Department as of Tuesday, and said it’s possible the department has already taken steps towards this. He said he would ask the department for a status report on the Board’s behalf.
Earth Removal Permits
John Makepeace and his representative came in to discuss renewing his existing earth removal permit. The extension was granted by the Board of Selectmen for a year, with stipulations from the Highway Department.
According to Makepeace, he is continuing the construction of a reservoir for his cranberry operation at White Dog Cranberry Ltd.
So far, Makepeace said he has removed 20,500 yards of earth to date. The operation requires 64,000 yards be removed. He said he believes he’s on schedule for completion within the year.
The Board of Selectmen gave abutters an opportunity to voice questions and concerns to Makepeace and his representation.
One abutter asked if there was a plan for overflow when there are heavy rains. She was concerned about the potential for more stagnant water in the area attracting mosquitos. She said she doesn’t think this would necessarily be a problem but wanted to make sure.
According to Makepeace’s representative, water elevation should be lower than the ground.
“It’s mostly ground rather than surface water,” he said.
Business License Revocation Hearings
Evergreen Beverage/ Twin Lake Liquor’s license has not been revoked, as Seelig said their payment is not due yet.
The hearing will continue at the next Board of Selectmen meeting. They were put on the schedule for 7:40 p.m.
Davis Automotive’s license was revoked with a unanimous vote from the Board. Seelig said a check due to the town bounced and the issue has not been corrected, despite several letters being sent.
The hearing however was left open and will be on the agenda for the Nov. 27 meeting. Selectman Chair Kim Roy said revocations can be rescinded.
Other News
Selectmen signed the state reimbursement forms for Chapter 90 state road/bridge funding. These forms were for repavement projects on roads including South Street, Elm Street, and Oak Street.
Three Cultural Council Reappointments were made. Seelig was reappointed until Nov. 26, 2019 while Linda Redding’s term runs through November 26, 2021. Patricia Murphy’s term is until Dec. 8, 2021.
The ceremony to swear in new Police Chief Joao A. Chaves was scheduled for Nov. 27 in the Great Hall. It starts at 6 p.m., and is open to the public. The Board of Selectmen meeting that night will follow.