Farmer's Market Coming to Whitman Town Park This Fall

Board Defers Action on Treasurer's suggested $10 hike in late payment charges, following neighboring towns' lead

WHITMAN, MA - May 21 - Whitman officials are considering a proposal to increase demand fees for late bill payments from $15 to $25, a move that could generate additional revenue for the town but has raised concerns about its impact on residents already struggling financially.

If implemented, the change could bring in an extra $47,700 to the general fund and $5,200 to the enterprise fund annually. Town Administrator Mary Beth Carter explained the rationale behind the proposed increase.

"This is not a change that affects anyone who pays their bills timely and is a one-time fee," Carter said. "It is only added once to each bill."

The demand fees are essentially late fees added to unpaid bills that are at least two weeks overdue. These can include real estate, personal property, excise, boat, trash, and water sewer bills.

Carter noted that neighboring towns have made similar moves. Hanson plans to raise its fees from $15 to $30, while East Bridgewater considered an increase from $15 to $20.

However, the proposal faced scrutiny from Board member Laura Howe, who expressed concerns about the impact on residents already struggling to pay their bills.

"I have a problem with putting fees on people that already can't pay," Howe said. "When people can't pay their bills and that's why they're late, adding more fees just exasperates the problem."

Howe likened the increase to predatory bank fees, stating, "It's like those bank fees where if you can't pay something and then all of a sudden you're $35 more in the hole. It just breaks my heart."

The board ultimately decided to postpone voting on the measure to allow for further consideration and to ensure all members could be present for the decision.

In other business, the Select Board approved a request to hold a farmer's market in Whitman Town Park on four Thursdays in September. The event, proposed by Melissa Strickland, aims to bring fresh produce and local goods to residents while utilizing the town's park space.

"We're looking to test out this year with a shorter period, hopefully be able to bring it back annually," Strickland said. "We think it'll be something very good and we appreciate the support."

The farmer's market will take place on Sept. 5, 12, 19, and 26, from 4 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., including setup and cleanup time. The approval is subject to DPW and Board of Health permits, with the town requiring $1 million in liability insurance.

Board member Justin Evans expressed enthusiasm for the project and suggested reaching out to local organizations for collaboration.

The meeting, which lasted just 16 minutes, concluded with a motion to adjourn.