By Beth David, Editor
The Fairhaven Select Board heard a proposal at its 7/13/26 meeting to use Community Preservation Act funds to pay for a bond for the Millicent Library’s HVAC project.
The plan would require the town to take out a loan (bond) for the $1.748 million project to add dehumidification, fresh air, and cooling to the Millicent Library. The historic building has no air conditioning for patrons or employees, so the library closes on hot days. The Library trustees have embarked on a fund-raising campaign to raise the money.
CPA funds can be used for the historic building, but the available funds are not enough to fund the whole project. CPA funds average around $500K per year, with a state match that varies. This year’s appropriation totaled $825,505; last year’s was $936,720. CPA funds are collected from a 2% surcharge on property taxes, with the first $100K exempt.
Bob Kenworthy, Treasurer of the Millicent Library Board of Trustees, told the board at the meeting and in a letter, that the Millicent will file an application with the Community Preservation Committee in the current round.
He noted that the trustees have paid for a number of improvements that support the HVAC project, including the heating system that will integrate with the AC.
He noted that although Fairhaven h as not used a bond for CPA funds, many towns to it. The trustees are recommending a 12 to 15 year bond that would cost about $150K per year.
Ann Richard, the chairperson of the CPC, also met with the board. She said that when they met with the Finance Committee during budget rounds, she gave them a heads up that the CPC bond is being considered.
“We have not met to discuss it this year,” said Ms. Richard, adding she anticipated they would talk about it at their August meeting.
The bond would be taken out by the town and paid for with CPC funds. All borrowing requires a 2/3 vote at Town Meeting.
In another matter, the board voted to accept the recommendation of Town Administrator, Keith Hickey, to hire Down Quirk as Town Planner.
The town has been without a planner for more than a year. Mr. Hickey held off on posting the position because of turmoil on the Planning Board (PB).
Ms. Quirk told the board she felt “well positioned” to help with the potential bylaw changes that the PB has been talking about.
SB member Rick Trapilo said he had a concern with Ms. Quirk’s lack of experience as a planner, as the department has “had some challenges.”
Ms. Quirk said she was confident in the role, noting that the town has a lot of planning expertise.
She said she has the ability to understand conflicts and regulations.
She said she excels in operational concepts and how things come to fruition. Maybe there is an undercurrent of dissatisfaction.
“I think I might be the right person at this time,” because the town is ready to “launch in a new direction.”
She said she is “really good” on reporting out on things and keeping people abreast so there are never any surprises.
SB member, Natalie Mello, said she was on the screening committee and they asked the same questions.
“And we were very satisfied in her answers,” said Ms. Mello, adding the committee had full confidence”‘ in her ability.
The board voted unanimously to approve the appointment.
The board also approved the alcohol license and hours for the Our Lady of Angels Feast on September 5, 6, 7.
Police Chief, Daniel Dorgan, told the board that last year’s security plan worked well.
Last year, the town beefed up security in and around the feast grounds because the year before there had been a couple of disturbances.
The plan calls for increased police on site, metal detectors at the gate, bags checked at the gate, only one entrance, and ID checks and wrist bands for alcohol use.
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