Seekonk Selectmen Have a Productive Summer

Committee Exploring Possibility of New Library

A committee involved in a facilities study of the Seekonk Public Library is considering expanding or finding a new location for the library. Voters approved $25,000 for the study in 2013. Library Director Peter Fuller reported on the study at a selectmen’s meeting last month. The facilities study committee will make a presentation on the topic at next year’s annual town meeting. If voters decide to move forward with the project, funding would have to be approved. For now, selectmen are only committed to the study.

Residents Complaining About Unpermitted Yard Sales

Selectman Dave Parker wants the town to enforce the bylaw on yard sales. Residents are required to obtain a permit before having a yard sale and signs are not allowed on telephone poles or personal property. Parker said he’s been getting calls from residents who complain that they followed the bylaw and did everything right, but others in town do not. The bylaw is usually enforced by the building inspector, but the position is currently vacant. Selectmen decided the best course would be to have residents call the Police Department with a complaint. Then officers can check whether someone having a yard sale has a permit.

Police Department to Get ATM machine

Selectmen approved a request to have an ATM machine installed in the Police Department so individuals in custody can make bail. It will not cost the department anything except in electricity and it is expected to save money in overtime costs. Also, the police union will receive a $1 from each transaction which will go towards their charitable efforts. Selectmen requested that an annual report on the funds be put together.

Selectmen Discuss Getting Generator for Town Hall

Selectmen discussed a need for a generator for town hall. Selectman David Viera said it has been needed for some time. Town Administrator Shawn Cadime told selectmen that the Fire Department has a generator that may be able to be used, but it needs some work. They will determine whether retrofitting that generator will be more cost effective than purchasing a new one.  Selectmen hope to have the generator in place before the winter.