Attleboro, Massachusetts Development News
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Attleboro City Council Meeting 07-21-2026
Published: Jul 21, 2026
Utility Pole Installations and Flood Plain Ordinance Updates Approved
The City Council received a petition from National Grid and Verizon New England requesting permission to install new utility poles and underground telecommunications conduit in various locations. Specifically, a new Joe Pole is proposed on Menden Road to replace and relocate an existing pole, and another new Joe Pole is planned for Brown Street for redundant feeder connections. Petitions for underground conduit placement were also received for Doro Lane and Joe Paul Drive. All petitions were referred to the Public Works Committee and public hearings were scheduled. The council also approved amendments to the city's zoning ordinance concerning flood plain districts, updating references to reflect new FEMA flood insurance rate maps and flood insurance studies, which is essential for maintaining eligibility for federal flood insurance programs.
Attleboro Addresses Budget Deficit with Health Insurance Reforms and Fund Transfers
The council discussed projected budget deficits and potential cost-saving measures for health insurance. Conversations are set to begin in late August with unions regarding premium split ratios and program offerings, with the aim of achieving significant savings. The Mayor also reported on the zoo's finances, noting the use of $50,000 from the budget for professional services to fund the new marketing and outreach coordinator position. A transfer of $25,650 from professional services to zoo salary and wages is proposed. Additionally, a transfer of $400,000 from the wastewater enterprise fund reserve to cover a workers' compensation case settlement was approved.
Capron Park Zoo Updates: New Marketing Hire, Potential Partnerships, and Event Sustainability Challenges
The Mayor provided an update on the Capron Park Zoo, including the recent hiring of a part-time marketing and outreach coordinator to boost membership, revenue, and social media presence. The Mayor also discussed the formation of the Capron Park Zoological Society and potential conflicts with the existing 'Friends of Capron Park City' group regarding events and scheduling. A license agreement for the Zoological Society is under review. The city is also issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to explore public-private partnerships for operating the zoo, which is a step towards assessing the viability of privatization. Recent improvements include painting the pavilion and plans to redo the roof. The Mayor also highlighted the success of the July 4th celebration but noted challenges in continuing such events due to budget constraints and staff layoffs, seeking ideas and partnerships for future events.
Traffic Sign Changes Debated; 'No Parking' on Stops Drive Approved
The Traffic and Transportation Committee discussed multiple items related to traffic control. A motion to amend ordinances to add northbound and southbound stop signs on Benefit Street at Oak Street was debated due to resident concerns about stopping the main road traffic instead of the side street. It was noted that the request originated from residents on Benefit Street who cited a fatal accident from 20 years prior. The committee decided to withdraw the motion pending further investigation or clarification from Chief Hegny. A motion to prohibit southbound left turns from Pleasant Street into the Stop and Shop driveway was discussed but did not receive a second. Finally, a motion to adopt a traffic study commission recommendation to add 'no parking' restrictions on Stops Drive leading into Commonwealth Avenue was approved.
Attleboro Considers Temporary Moratorium on Data Center Development Amidst Resident Concerns
The City Council held a joint public hearing to consider an amendment to the city's zoning ordinance by adding a new section titled 'Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers.' Several residents spoke in favor of the moratorium, citing concerns about water usage, electrical power demand, noise pollution, and potential utility rate increases. The proposed moratorium aims to provide the city with time to study the impacts of data centers before allowing any to be built within the city limits. A year-long moratorium is requested, with some suggesting a permanent ban. The council also discussed the state's framework for data center development. The decision to approve the moratorium was based on a desire for preventative measures and to learn from other communities' experiences with data centers.
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The Attleboro News archive
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Attleboro City Council Meeting 07-21-2026
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