Rehoboth News Notes

Rehoboth and Attleboro Officials Meet to Discuss Gas Pipeline Project

Selectman Chairman Skip Vadnais met with Attleboro Mayor Kevin Dumas and State Rep. Steven Howitt to discuss the proposed gas compressor station that is expected to be built near the Rehoboth-Attleboro line, according to an article in the Sun Chronicle. The station is part of the proposed $3 billion Access Northeast pipeline expansion project. No details were available on the discussion.

Timilty Proposes Amendment on Gas Pipeline

State Sen. James Timilty has sponsored an amendment to the Senate budget that prohibits natural gas pipelines within one mile of a playground, church, school and day care center.  The amendment was adopted by the Senate, but it is not part of the House version of the budget.  Algonquin Gas has plans to construct a natural gas pipeline through several towns in the area as part of the Access Northeast expansion project.

Massachusetts May Not Offer Sales Tax Holiday This Year

The annual summer sales tax holiday may not happen this year. State officials report that the tax holiday costs $25 million a year, according to media reports. During the tax holiday, which took place last year on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 15-16, consumers don’t have to pay the 6.25 percent tax on all retail items priced $2,500 or less. Since the state is facing a budget shortfall, Governor Baker and others have indicated the holiday may need to be cancelled this year. Supporters say the tax holiday boosts the economy and helps local business, but some say the state can’t afford the loss of revenue this year. 

Town to Issue Citations to Owners of Unlicensed Dogs

The town is warning all owners of unlicensed dogs to register their pets as soon as possible or non-criminal citations will be issued. There are reportedly 180 unlicensed dogs in Rehoboth. The deadline for dog licenses was June 1.  Late licenses are charged a $15 late fee and those who receive citations will be charged an additional $25.  State law allows towns to seize dogs that are unlicensed.

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Holds Graduation for Class of 2016

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School held graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2016 on Saturday, June 4.  There were 209 graduates.  The valedictorian was Sara Enos and the salutatorian was Antonia Scott.  The class motto was from Maya Angelou: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you do, but people will never forget how you made them feel,"

Rehoboth Police Investigating Incidents Involving Damaged Windshields

On Wednesday, June 22, there were several reports to police of someone throwing rocks or shooting a BB gun at cars along Route 118, damaging windshields.  No one was hurt.  Anyone with information about the incidents should call Rehoboth Police at 508-252-3722.

Construction Underway on Blanding Library Expansion

Construction on the planned capital development campaign at Blanding Library has begun.  The project involves building an addition to the rear of the building that will include a handicapped entrance to the children’s room and a handicapped-accessible bathroom off Goff Hall.  The expansion is being paid mostly through donations from individuals, local businesses and community organizations.  Construction is expected to be completed this summer.