Plymouth Tackles Nuisance Bylaw, Allocates Final ARPA Funds
Select Board discusses revised bylaw for dilapidated buildings, receives $1.6 million for sewer project
PLYMOUTH, MA - June 25 - The Plymouth Select Board on Tuesday discussed a revised nuisance bylaw aimed at addressing dilapidated buildings and received an update on the town's final allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funds.
Select Board Vice Chair Kevin Canty and Town Council Kate McKay presented the proposed nuisance bylaw, which would give Plymouth authorities the power to tackle structures creating fire hazards or eyesores.
"We are trying to focus on specifically the buildings because that's what we're getting a lot of discussion about and a lot of complaints about," Canty said. The bylaw would allow the town to impose fines and place liens on non-compliant properties.
The revised bylaw comes after a previous version failed to pass at the fall annual town meeting in October. Canty acknowledged the "uphill battle" in passing such a bylaw, noting skepticism from the legislative branch and some constituents.
Plymouth County Commissioner Jared Valanzola presented the town with its final ARPA allocation of $1.6 million, completing Plymouth's municipal ARPA funding. The money will be used for the Water Street sewer interceptor project.
"Plymouth has now become, I believe, the ninth community in Plymouth County to max out their ARPA allocation," Valanzola said. He praised the town's use of the funds for water and sewer infrastructure.
Valanzola highlighted the county's efficient management of ARPA funds, noting a 1% administrative cost compared to the national average of 7% to 10%. This efficiency has resulted in more money for Plymouth and other member communities.
The Select Board also addressed concerns about traffic volume and speed on South Wareham Road. Canty mentioned residents' worries about increased traffic related to the Redbrook development and highway cut-throughs.
Board Chairman Richard Quintal emphasized the need for developers to address infrastructure improvements during the planning process. "These developers come in, no matter what they're developing, they develop, they take the cash, stuff their pockets, and off they go," Quintal said.
The board agreed to investigate the traffic concerns on South Wareham Road and potentially engage with the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals to address these issues in future development projects.