Dartmouth, Massachusetts Development News
GatherGov Agents listens to meetings 24/7 delivering the latest real estate development updates, legislation, and news.
Development News from the latest meeting
Select Board Meeting - July 13, 2026
Published: Jul 13, 2026
Aquaculture Site Approved Conditionally by Select Board
The Board of Selectmen held a public hearing for Jack Condan's application for a half-acre aquaculture site in the Slokums River, located in the intertidal zone within the BB7 conditionally approved area. Condan plans to use bottom-set cages anchored to the sandbar, which would be exposed at low tide. He addressed concerns regarding winter operations, storm protection, seed sourcing, and his experience, emphasizing his passion and network of marine biologists and aquaculture experts. The proposal was ultimately approved unanimously with conditional approval, pending state review. Concerns were raised by board members regarding Condan's lack of direct experience in oyster farming, but his willingness to take on financial risk and surround himself with knowledgeable individuals was noted.
Proposed Rate Increases for Solid Waste, Water, and Sewer Services Discussed
The Board of Public Works and Select Board discussed proposed rate increases for solid waste, water, and sewer services for Fiscal Year 2027. For solid waste (smart program), the annual fee is proposed to increase from $120 to $140, a $20 increase, to maintain consistent annual increases and avoid larger spikes. Orange bag rates remain unchanged. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the proposed increase to cover future capital needs, such as replacing waste vehicles costing around $450,000 each. The board decided to table the solid waste rate discussion until August to further refine the numbers. For water, a 7.5% rate increase is recommended to cover operational costs and build reserves, influenced by the continued purchase of water from New Bedford and the need for routine maintenance. For sewer, a significant 16% increase is recommended, primarily driven by increased costs for bio-solids disposal due to new state regulations banning land application of composted material. The board emphasized the need for rates to cover operational and capital costs, with some members advocating for higher increases to build reserves and address future needs like wastewater treatment plant upgrades, which could cost upwards of $100 million. Water and sewer rates were approved to move forward for further discussion.
Stop Signs Recommended for Mason and Center Street Intersection Following Accident
A request for a stop sign at the intersection of Mason and Center Street was made following a motor vehicle accident. DPW and Diamond Traffic Safety investigated and recommended installing stop signs on both sides of Mason Street entering Center Street due to sight distance issues, overgrown vegetation, and driver inattention. The recommendation was approved.
Water and Sewer Rate Increases Proposed Amidst Infrastructure and Capacity Concerns
Discussions were held regarding the town's water and sewer systems, including proposed rate increases and long-term infrastructure needs. A 7.5% increase for water is recommended to cover operational costs and build reserves, while a significant 16% increase for sewer is proposed primarily due to rising bio-solids disposal costs. Concerns were raised about the capacity of the wastewater treatment plant with projected new housing units and the immense future costs of potential upgrades (over $100 million). The need for consistent rate increases to fund capital improvements and avoid future large spikes was emphasized. Potential interconnections with Fall River and Westport for water supply were discussed as a means to enhance redundancy and potentially secure grant funding, though costs and feasibility require further analysis. The town is also exploring strategies to manage future waste disposal needs beyond the current landfill capacity.
Dartmouth Friends of the Elderly Fund Crucial Council on Aging Upgrades
The Dartmouth Friends of the Elderly donated funds to upgrade the kitchen and community room at the Council on Aging. The initial town allocation of $400,000 for the kitchen project was insufficient when combined with bids and alternates, leaving a $75,000 shortfall. The Friends of the Elderly stepped in to cover this gap and also donated an additional $50,000 to upgrade the main community room. This donation will allow the project to move forward, with contracts expected to be finalized soon.
Get Weekly Development News of Dartmouth
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news.
From $25/year
The Dartmouth News archive
Board of Public Works Meeting July 22, 2026
Conservation Commission Meeting - July 21, 2026
Select Board Recap July 13 2026
Planning Board Meeting July 13, 2026
Town of Dartmouth Select Board Meeting - July 13, 2026
Finance Committee Meeting - July 9, 2026
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news. Get your edge today.
GatherGov Market Intelligence
For Owners & Developers
See entitlement risk and deploy capital where there is the highest probability of return
For AEC
Win more projects by discovering opportunities before your competitors do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dartmouth ,Massachusetts Real Estate Development
Get Weekly Development News of Dartmouth, Massachusetts | From $25/year