Board of Public Works — September 28, 2026

The Fairhaven Board of Public Works met on September 28, 2026, to address a variety of municipal infrastructure and operational items. Nils Isaacson, representing the Fairhaven Improvement Association, requested the removal of green mesh trash barrels near Town Hall and Center Street due to unpleasant sights, odors, and dog waste. The board agreed to temporarily reduce the number of barrels from five down to two, placing them off the main street while awaiting delivery of solar-powered Big Belly compacting receptacles funded by the Community Preservation Committee. The board also approved 80 hours of vacation carryover each for the highway superintendent and the garage supervisor.

Discussions were held regarding motorized vehicles and e-bikes on the town rail trail following concerns raised by the Select Board. The board decided to table the item to seek formal input and guidance from the Police Department, Select Board, and town counsel before attempting any regulatory changes or speed limits. Significant attention was given to reports that the town's budget working group and Select Board had discussed privatizing or contracting out operations at the wastewater treatment plant. Superintendent Vincent Furtado and board members expressed strong opposition to privatizing wastewater operations, noting that past regional attempts (such as New Bedford's) were neither cheaper nor practical, and asserted that decisions regarding the sewer department fall under the authority of the Board of Public Works as sewer commissioners.

In business decisions, the board approved two work change directives for the wastewater treatment facility upgrades totaling $104,278.40 (Directive No. 8) and $112,556.71 (Directive No. 9), as well as a contract and notice to proceed for $23,715 with Maher Services LLC for cleaning and redeveloping Wolf Island Well No. 1. Board members also reflected on the recent successful opening of the new BMX pump track at Macomber Park, discussed persistent drainage issues on Sconticut Neck Road near Jerusalem Road, and scheduled their next meeting for October 5, 2026, before adjourning.

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