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11h ago

Fall River Now — Weekly Recap, Week Ending July 31, 2026

Transcript Welcome to Fall River Now. This is our weekly recap for the week ending July 31, 2026, where we cover the most significant local government news. Topping the news this week, the City Council gave its final approval to the city budget. Councilors passed a nearly four hundred eighty-four million dollar budget for the next fiscal year at a special meeting on Tuesday. A key point of debate, the school transportation line item, was fully funded at seventeen-point-one million dollars, the amount requested by the School Committee. Also this week, a city council committee heard details on a major proposal to address flooding in the Stafford Square area. The plan, presented to the Committee on Public Safety, carries an estimated cost of thirty-seven million dollars. The committee also discussed the fire department's resource needs and ongoing commuter rail issues. The Fall River Redevelopment Authority is moving forward with a new dock at the city pier. The authority's board voted on Wednesday to award a two hundred twenty-nine thousand dollar contract for the project. In other action, the Board of Health voted Monday to suspend the tobacco license for a city market. The board, with members Thomas Cory and Michael J. Coughlin present, also approved new applications for tattoo practitioners. Looking ahead, several city meetings are on the calendar for next week. The Conservation Commission will meet on Monday, August third, followed by the Board of Park Commissioners on Wednesday, August fifth. A public ceremony to remember those affected by Agent Orange is also scheduled for Monday, August tenth, at the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Wall. The event begins at six p.m. Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information. In this episode Fall River Council Committee Reviews Fire Department Needs, Hears $37M Stafford Square Flood Plan at July 30 Meeting Redevelopment Authority Awards $229,000 Contract for New City Pier Dock at July 29 Meeting Fall River City Council Passes $483.5M Budget, Fully Funds School Transportation on July 28 Fall River Board of Health Suspends Market’s Tobacco License at July 27 Meeting
1d ago · Bonus

7.30.2026 City Council - Committee on Public Safety

Meeting summary The Fall River City Council's Committee on Public Safety met on July 30, 2026, to discuss fire department resources, commuter rail issues, and severe flooding problems. The meeting began with citizen input from Michael O'Regan, who spoke about the fire department's understaffing and aging equipment. He cited a recent fire on Hick Street as an example where increased manpower made a difference but stressed that the department is still overwhelmed, underfunded, and operating with unreliable vehicles. Following his comments, the committee unanimously voted to send a letter to the administration requesting updates on fire apparatus orders, plans for fire protection for the Route 79 waterfront development, the status of turnover gear, and communications with the state about a potential developer-built fire station. The committee then addressed resident complaints about the MBTA commuter rail, including noise from trains idling early in the morning and a reported sewer smell near the layover station. Ann O'Neil-Souza from the mayor's office noted that they forward complaints to state representatives and Keolis, and mentioned a noise mitigation program for which some residents had not applied. The item was ultimately tabled for further discussion. The majority of the meeting was dedicated to a detailed presentation by Paul Furlan, Administrator of Community Utilities, on the chronic flooding at Stafford Square. Furlan outlined the history of the problem, dating back to the early 1900s, and presented a comprehensive engineering plan estimated to cost nearly $37 million. He discussed the extensive efforts to secure federal and state grant funding, noting the city might still need to contribute around $8 million in a best-case scenario. After a lengthy discussion about the project's timeline, cost, and potential interim safety measures, this item was also tabled. Topics discussed Fire Department Staffing and EquipmentMichael O'Regan discussed the fire department's inadequate staffing, aging and unreliable apparatus, gaps in city-wide coverage according to GIS studies, and the need for a new fire station to serve the upcoming Route 79 development. Request for Fire Department UpdatesThe committee voted to send a formal letter to the administration requesting updates on the status of fire apparatus orders, plans for fire protection for the Route 79 development, the status of new turnover gear, and any dialogue with the state about a new fire station. A motion was made to send a letter to the administration and fire chief for an update on fire apparatus ordering and status, plans for fire protection for the Route 79 development, the status of turnover gear orders, and to show communication with the state regarding a new fire station. — passedA motion was made to send a letter to the administration and fire chief for an update on fire apparatus ordering and status, plans for fire protection for the Route 79 development, the status of turnover gear orders, and to show communication with the state regarding a new fire station. Approval of Meeting MinutesThe committee approved the minutes from the meetings on June 16th and June 26th. Motion to approve the minutes from June 16th and June 26th. — passedMotion to approve the minutes from June 16th and June 26th. Motion to table the discussion on MBTA commuter rail safety and noise concerns. — tabledMotion to table the discussion on MBTA commuter rail safety and noise concerns. Motion to lift item 3, regarding MBTA commuter rail issues, from the table. — approvedMotion to lift item 3, regarding MBTA commuter rail issues, from the table. MBTA Commuter Rail IssuesDiscussion of resident complaints regarding noise from idling trains in the early morning, a sewer smell near the Weaver's Cove layover station, and the status of a noise mitigation program for affected residents. Motion to table the discussion on Stafford Square flooding issues. — tabledMotion to table the discussion on Stafford Square flooding issues. Stafford Square FloodingPaul Furlan from Community Utilities gave a detailed presentation on the chronic flooding at Stafford Square, outlining the history, engineering studies, a proposed $37 million solution, and the complex funding strategy involving federal and state grants. Interim Solutions for Stafford Square FloodingCouncilors and city officials discussed potential interim measures to improve safety during flooding events at Stafford Square, such as improved warning signage and proactive road closures, while acknowledging the difficulty of preventing drivers from entering the flooded intersection. Motion to adjourn the meeting. — passedMotion to adjourn the meeting. Links Read the meeting summary Watch the full meeting
1d ago · Bonus

7.29.2026 Redevelopment Authority

Meeting summary The Fall River Redevelopment Authority held its monthly meeting on July 29, 2026, chaired by John R. Erickson. The board began by unanimously approving the minutes from their June 24, 2026 meeting and the July warrant totaling $125,229.10. Project Manager Karen Martin provided several key updates. For the Northfield Point project, the board approved a $43,650 change order to install irrigation and sod, which will allow for public use of the area much sooner than seeding. The board also awarded a $229,000 contract to Kavanaugh Marine for the construction of a new dinghy dock and mooring fields at City Pier, after the lowest bidder was deemed non-conforming. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the newly acquired property at 45 Anawan Street. The Authority discussed plans to secure the site, clean it up, and notify the Fall River Historical Commission of their intent to demolish the five remaining buildings, which are on a local historic register. They also debated the logistics of opening the lot for temporary free parking, including activating an automatic gate and striping the lot, with the goal of creating a paid parking facility after demolition and improvements are completed in 2027. Executive Director Sarah Page reported on persistent bureaucratic hurdles with the state's MEPA review for the Pleasant Street Urban Renewal Plan, prompting legal counsel to offer direct intervention. Page also updated the board on activities in the North Downtown Historic District (NOMA), including an upcoming "Taste of Fall River" event and a new marketing campaign. Finally, the board considered a funding request from the Fall River Arts and Culture Coalition (FRAC) for $17,000 to complete the "Tide Portal" mural project on the Davol Street underpass. After a discussion about the project's merits, its location within a key waterfront investment area, and the precedent of funding outside organizations, the board voted unanimously to provide $5,000 in financial support. The meeting concluded with the board entering an executive session to discuss real estate matters, with no return to open session planned. Topics discussed Approval of MinutesThe board approved the open session minutes from the June 24, 2026 meeting. A motion to approve the June 24th, 2026 open session minutes. — passedA motion to approve the June 24th, 2026 open session minutes. Approval of July WarrantThe board approved the July warrant for $125,229.10. A motion to approve the July warrant in the amount of $125,229.10. — passedA motion to approve the July warrant in the amount of $125,229.10. A motion to approve the change order to remove seed from lawn area and add irrigation and sod in accordance with Da Silva's estimate number 689 dated July 27th, 2026, in the amount of $43,650, and to authorize the chair or executive director to sign change order number 1 to Da Silva's contract for this work. — passedA motion to approve the change order to remove seed from lawn area and add irrigation and sod in accordance with Da Silva's estimate number 689 dated July 27th, 2026, in the amount of $43,650, and to authorize the chair or executive director to sign change order number 1 to Da Silva's contract for this work. Northfield Point Project UpdateThe board discussed construction progress and approved a $43,650 change order to add irrigation and sod to the outdoor classroom area to speed up public access. City Pier Dinghy Dock and Mooring Fields ContractThe board awarded a $229,000 contract to Kavanaugh Marine for the dinghy dock and mooring fields project, as the low bidder submitted a non-conforming bid. A motion to approve awarding the contract in the amount of $229,000 to Kavanaugh Marine Incorporated for the work associated with IFB number 2704 for the new dinghy dock at Norton City Pier 3 mooring fields and to approve the chair or executive director to sign the agreement. — passedA motion to approve awarding the contract in the amount of $229,000 to Kavanaugh Marine Incorporated for the work associated with IFB number 2704 for the new dinghy dock at Norton City Pier 3 mooring fields and to approve the chair or executive director to sign the agreement. Waterfront Event UpdatesA debrief was held on the South Coast Health event, and upcoming events for Bay Coast Bank and the Narrows were mentioned. Cathodic Protection System InspectionThe board was informed that the one-year warranty inspection of the cathodic protection system at the bulkhead was complete and the system is operating properly. 45 Anawan Street Property ManagementA detailed discussion was held regarding the newly acquired 45 Anawan Street property, including securing the site, demolition plans, notifying the Historical Commission, and establishing temporary free parking. Pleasant Street Urban Renewal Plan (MEPA Issues)The board received an update on continued difficulties with the state's MEPA review process, with legal counsel offering to intervene directly with state officials. North Downtown Historic District (NOMA) InitiativesUpdates were provided on NOMA activities, including a "Taste of Fall River" event on August 15th, a banner project, and a $10,000 marketing campaign. FRAC Funding Request for Tide Portal MuralThe board discussed and voted on a request from the Fall River Arts and Culture Coalition (FRAC) for financial support to complete a mural project on the Davol Street underpass. A motion to approve financial support to the Forerunner Arts and Culture Coalition for the Forerunner Development Authority in the amount of $5,000 to the title mural project. — passedA motion to approve financial support to the Forerunner Arts and Culture Coalition for the Forerunner Development Authority in the amount of $5,000 to the title mural project. Executive SessionThe board moved to enter an executive session to discuss real estate transactions related to 0 Davol Street and the Davol Street corridor. A motion to enter into executive session, and we will not return to open session. — passedA motion to enter into executive session, and we will not return to open session. Links
2d ago · Bonus

7.28.2026 Fall River City Council - Special Meeting

Meeting summary The Fall River City Council held a special meeting primarily to finalize and pass the Fiscal Year 2027 municipal budget. The central point of contention was the school transportation budget. The School Committee had requested $17.1 million, while the mayor's proposed budget allocated $16.65 million, leaving a $450,000 shortfall. After a lengthy discussion with Interim Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith and city CFO Emily Arpke, councilors expressed concern about passing what they considered an unbalanced budget, given that transportation is a mandated cost. Councilor Shawn Cadime proposed moving $450,000 from the city's reserve fund to fully fund the school's request. After a brief recess to amend the appropriation order, the council voted 8-1 to approve the revised budget, which totaled $483,583,582. In other business, the council addressed tensions with the administration by voting 8-1 to adopt a memorandum of agreement with Mayor Paul Coogan regarding the use of outside legal counsel. The agreement was presented as a compromise to establish clear procedures for future councils and administrations. During public comment, School Committee member Collin Dias spoke in favor of the full transportation budget and accused the mayor of bullying the superintendent, a claim that was questioned by several councilors due to a lack of evidence. The council also formally rejected a temporary continuing appropriation order, which was no longer needed, and reconsidered and passed a salary amendment ordinance for the Director of Health and Human Services before adjourning. Topics discussed Meeting LogisticsCouncil President Ponte announced that the City Council chambers were closed to the public until August 11th for maintenance, and the meeting was being held in the City Council hearing room. Citizens' Input on School BudgetSchool Committee Member Collin R. Dias, speaking as a citizen, urged the council to fully fund the school transportation budget at the level approved by the school committee and not the lower amount proposed by the mayor. FY2027 Municipal Budget and School Transportation FundingThe council debated the FY2027 budget, focusing on a $450,000 discrepancy between the mayor's proposed school transportation funding ($16.65M) and the school committee's request ($17.1M). After extensive discussion with school and city finance officials, the council decided to fully fund the request. Allegations of BullyingDuring citizens' input, Collin R. Dias accused Mayor Coogan of bullying the superintendent. Councilors Pereira and Camara questioned him on the claim, asking for proof, which he did not provide, stating he was informed by whistleblowers. A motion to adopt the Memorandum of Agreement with the Mayor regarding outside legal counsel. — passedA motion to adopt the Memorandum of Agreement with the Mayor regarding outside legal counsel. Memorandum of Agreement on Outside Legal CounselThe council discussed and approved an MOA with the mayor's office to create a compromise framework for when and how the council can seek outside legal opinions. Councilor Cadime agreed to withdraw a related ordinance as part of the compromise. Budget Amendment and PassageTo resolve the school transportation funding issue, the council agreed to transfer $450,000 from the reserve fund. After a recess to prepare a revised appropriation order, the council passed the amended FY2027 budget. A motion to approve the amended FY2027 Municipal Budget General Fund Appropriation Order for $483,583,582. — passedA motion to approve the amended FY2027 Municipal Budget General Fund Appropriation Order for $483,583,582. ARPA Funds Expenditure StatusCouncilor Peckham inquired about the status of ARPA fund expenditures ahead of federal deadlines. Interim City Administrator Ann O'Neil-Souza stated that departments are on track and a full report would be provided. A motion to grant the July continuing appropriation order leave to withdraw. — passedA motion to grant the July continuing appropriation order leave to withdraw. A motion to reject the July continuing appropriation order. — passedA motion to reject the July continuing appropriation order. Policy on Use of Outside Legal CounselCouncil President Ponte submitted a communication to initiate the process for the council to develop and adopt its own internal policy regarding the use of outside legal counsel, following the approval of the MOA with the mayor. A motion to accept and place on file the communication regarding a policy on outside legal counsel. — passedA motion to accept and place on file the communication regarding a policy on outside legal counsel. Salary Ordinance for Director of Health and Human ServicesThe council voted to reconsider a salary amendment ordinance for the Director of Health and Human Services, which was then passed through its final readings to be ordained. A motion to reconsider the salary amendment ordinance for the Director of Health and Human Services. — passedA motion to reconsider the salary amendment ordinance for the Director of Health and Human Services. A motion to pass the salary amendment ordinance for the Director of Health and Human Services through second reading and enrollment. — passedA motion to pass the salary amendment ordinance for the Director of Health and Human Services through second reading and enrollment. A motion to pass the salary amendment ordinance for the Director of Health and Human Services to be ordained. — passedA motion to pass the salary amendment ordinance for the Director of Health and Human Services to be ordained. A motion to adjourn the meeting. — passedA motion to adjourn the meeting. Links Read the meeting summary Watch the full meeting
4d ago · Bonus

7.27.2026 Board of Health

Meeting summary The Fall River Board of Health held a virtual meeting on July 27, 2026, with members Thomas Cory and Michael J. Coughlin present. The board began by approving the minutes from their May 18, 2026 meeting. They then approved tattoo practitioner applications for Aaron Gerard and Lawrence Ford. Three applications for the keeping of animals were also approved: Jessica Perez for up to 8 hens, Jose Calheta for an amended request of 18 chickens and 5 ducks, and Raymond Leboy for 8 hens, despite letters of opposition from neighbors concerned about vermin. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a tobacco violation hearing for Farm Market at 223 Durfee Street. This was the store's second offense, involving the sale of flavored vapes. The owner, Tanvir Sajib, claimed the items were leftover from a previous owner. The board found the offense credible, upheld a mandatory $2,000 fine, and imposed a 7-day suspension of their tobacco license. The board also heard from Paul Furlan, Administrator of Community Utilities, regarding beaver activity causing flooding and potential road damage near Mill Pond and Bell Rock Road. The board voted to issue an emergency letter to the Conservation Commission to allow for the installation of "beaver deceiver" solutions. Furlan also provided a brief update, stating that water fluoridation could resume within a few months after a multi-year hiatus.The meeting concluded with a director's report from Tess Curran on departmental activities, including the Mass in Motion program, and the scheduling of the next meeting for August 31, 2026. Topics discussed Meeting Opening and Roll CallThe meeting was called to order by Thomas Cory, and a roll call was conducted, establishing a quorum with Michael J. Coughlin also present. Approval of MinutesThe board voted to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026 meeting as presented. Approval of the minutes from the meeting of May 18, 2026. — passedApproval of the minutes from the meeting of May 18, 2026. Tattoo Practitioner Application: Aaron GerardThe board approved a tattoo practitioner application for Aaron Gerard to work at Up in Flames, noting all his paperwork was in order. Approval of the tattoo practitioner application for Aaron Gerard. — approvedApproval of the tattoo practitioner application for Aaron Gerard. Tattoo Practitioner Application: Lawrence FordThe board approved a tattoo practitioner application for Lawrence Ford to work at Painted Savage Tattoo after he successfully completed his apprenticeship. Approval of the tattoo practitioner application for Lawrence Ford. — approvedApproval of the tattoo practitioner application for Lawrence Ford. Animal Keeping Permit: Jessica PerezThe board approved an application for Jessica Perez to keep up to 8 hens at 37 Smith Street, with conditions including no roosters and a rodent control contract. Approval of the application for the keeping of animals for Jessica Perez. — approvedApproval of the application for the keeping of animals for Jessica Perez. Approval of the amended application for the keeping of animals for Jose Calheta (18 chickens, 5 ducks). — approvedApproval of the amended application for the keeping of animals for Jose Calheta (18 chickens, 5 ducks). Animal Keeping Permit: Jose CalhetaThe board approved an amended application for Jose Calheta at 36 Forestry Way to increase his animal count from 12 chickens to 18 chickens and 5 ducks, with a neighbor speaking in support. Animal Keeping Permit: Raymond LeboyThe board approved an application for Raymond Leboy to keep 8 hens at 578 Penn Street after reading two letters of opposition from neighbors concerned about vermin. Approval of the application for the keeping of animals for Raymond Leboy. — approvedApproval of the application for the keeping of animals for Raymond Leboy. Motion to close the tobacco violation hearing. — passedMotion to close the tobacco violation hearing. Tobacco Violation Hearing: Farm MarketThe board conducted a hearing for Farm Market's second tobacco violation, which involved possessing flavored vapes. The board imposed a $2,000 fine and a 7-day license suspension. Motion to open the tobacco violation hearing. — passedMotion to open the tobacco violation hearing. Motion to uphold the mandatory fine and impose a 7-day suspension for Farm Market's tobacco violation. — passedMotion to uphold the mandatory fine and impose a 7-day suspension for Farm Market's tobacco violation. Beaver Management at Mill PondPaul Furlan of Community Utilities requested and received approval for an emergency letter to install 'beaver deceiver' solutions to mitigate flooding and potential road damage caused by beaver dams. Motion to provide the Department of Community Utilities with an emergency letter to install beaver solutions. — passedMotion to provide the Department of Community Utilities with an emergency letter to install beaver solutions. Scheduling Next MeetingThe board set its next meeting date for August 31, 2026. Water Fluoridation UpdatePaul Furlan provided an update on water fluoridation, stating a new product has been sourced and the system could be operational again within a couple of months after a long hiatus. Director's ReportTess Curran reported on departmental activities, including filling a Mass in Motion position, community outreach on tick-borne diseases, and a successful youth bike safety event. Motion to adjourn the meeting. — passedMotion to adjourn the meeting. Links Re...
4d ago

Fall River Now — Week Ahead, July 27, 2026

Transcript Welcome to Fall River Now. Here's your look at the week ahead in Fall River city government. The City Council holds a special meeting Tuesday evening at five-thirty to address major financial decisions. On the agenda is a third revised version of the proposed municipal budget for Fiscal Year 2027. Councilors will also vote on a continuing appropriation order to keep the city funded through July. Also Tuesday, the council will consider an agreement with Mayor Paul E. Coogan regarding the use of outside legal counsel. The council will take a second vote on a proposed salary amendment for the Director of Health and Human Services. That measure failed to pass in a four-to-four vote earlier this month. Earlier on Tuesday, at five o'clock, the Fall River Public Schools Policy Subcommittee meets. The committee will discuss and review the attendance policy for all grade levels. It will also review the district's cell phone policy, which involves the use of YONDR pouches. Members will also discuss potential new policies on destruction of property and working from home. The City Council Committee on Public Safety meets Thursday afternoon at two. The committee will again take up a resolution to discuss safety and noise concerns around the new commuter rail line with MBTA and city representatives. They will also address a resolution on long-standing flooding issues at Stafford Plaza, Pleasant Street, and Quarry Street. The Fall River Redevelopment Authority gathers Wednesday at five p.m. The board will consider a request for financial support for a new mural in the Davol Street Corridor. It is also scheduled to go into a private executive session to discuss potential real estate transactions along that same corridor. Kicking off the week, the Board of Health meets this afternoon, Monday, at three-thirty. The board will hold a public hearing for the Farm Market on Durfee Street, which faces a second alleged violation of the state's tobacco control act. Members will also review several applications from residents for keeping animals, and applications for two tattoo practitioners. The Fall River Contributory Retirement Board will meet Wednesday morning at eight-thirty. The board will discuss and vote on its election procedures and timeline. It will also review several superannuation retirement applications and plans to enter an executive session to discuss disability retirement cases. Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information. In this episode Board of Health @3:30p.m. Fall River Public Schools Policy Subcommittee@ 5:00 p.m. Special Meeting of the City Council @ 5:30 p.m. Fall River Contributory Retirement Board @8:30 a.m. Fall River Redevelopment Authority @5:00 PM City Council Committee on Public Safety @ 2:00 p.m.
5d ago · Bonus

Committee on Ordinances & Legislation 7.23.2026

Meeting summary The Fall River Committee on Ordinances & Legislation, chaired by Councilor Andrew J. Raposo, primarily focused on school transportation funding, billboard regulations, and waterfront development. Following public comment from School Committee member Collin R. Dias regarding a dispute over the school transportation budget, the committee held a lengthy discussion with city and school finance officials. The conversation highlighted a breakdown in communication over the transportation budget, which is not part of net school spending. Ultimately, the committee voted to request the full City Council establish a temporary, one-year ad hoc school transportation committee to foster collaboration and review expenses, with its permanence to be reviewed after the trial period. A significant portion of the meeting was also dedicated to outdoor advertising. Resident Joseph Cavallo spoke at length during citizen input, condemning a new electronic billboard on the Route 79/Duval Street corridor as visual blight and a safety hazard that detracts from the waterfront and nearby veterans' memorials. In response, the committee later discussed a resolution from Councilor Linda M. Pereira and voted to refer the city's ordinances on billboards to the Corporation Counsel for review, seeking to strengthen regulations and prevent the proliferation of such signs, particularly along the developing waterfront. The committee also tabled a discussion on the broader development of the Route 79 corridor, awaiting a report from a separate working group. Additionally, the committee handled several other pieces of legislation. They approved ordinances establishing new handicap parking spaces and removing others. They also reviewed the city's ordinance for naming public properties, referring it to the Corporation Counsel to clarify procedures and the respective jurisdictions of the City Council and the Park Board. The meeting concluded after addressing all items on the agenda. Topics discussed School Transportation Budget DisputeSchool Committee member Collin R. Dias spoke during citizen input about a disagreement between the school committee and the mayor's office over transportation funding, alleging the city cut the budget and that the mayor claimed a "deal" was cut with the council. Electronic Billboards and Waterfront BlightResident Joseph Cavallo spoke against a new electronic billboard on Route 79, arguing it is a safety hazard, creates light pollution, and is a form of urban blight on the developing waterfront near veterans' memorials. Route 79 / Duval Street Corridor DevelopmentCouncilor Pereira raised concerns about public input, zoning, and parking for the major waterfront redevelopment project. The item was tabled pending more information. Approval of Meeting MinutesThe committee approved the minutes from its June 23, 2026 meeting. Approval of the minutes for the June 23rd, 2026 meeting. — passedApproval of the minutes for the June 23rd, 2026 meeting. Handicap Parking OrdinancesThe committee approved ordinances to add five new handicap parking spots and remove seven existing ones across the city. Motion that the handicap parking ordinance be accompanied by an emergency preamble. — passedMotion that the handicap parking ordinance be accompanied by an emergency preamble. Motion to pass the handicap parking ordinance through all readings. — passedMotion to pass the handicap parking ordinance through all readings. Motion to pass the handicap parking removal ordinance through first reading. — passedMotion to pass the handicap parking removal ordinance through first reading. Creation of Ad Hoc School Transportation CommitteeA lengthy discussion was held with city and school officials about creating a committee to improve communication and oversight of the school transportation budget, which is not part of net school spending. The committee voted to recommend its creation. Motion to request the council establish an order to create an ad hoc school transportation committee for a one-year trial period. — passedMotion to request the council establish an order to create an ad hoc school transportation committee for a one-year trial period. Motion to table the resolution on Route 79 development. — tabledMotion to table the resolution on Route 79 development. Review of Billboard OrdinancesThe committee discussed the need for stricter regulations on billboards to prevent visual blight, particularly on the waterfront, and voted to refer the matter to the Law Department for review. Motion to send a letter to Corporation Counsel with the resolution on billboards for them to investigate possible ordinances. — passedMotion to send a letter to Corporation Counsel with the resolution on billboards for them to investigate possible ordinances. Motion to table the resolution on billboard ordinances in committee. — tabledMotion to table the resolution on billboard ordinances in committee. Motion to table the resolution on naming city properties in committee. — tabledMotion to table the resolution on naming city properties in committee. Review of Ordinance for Naming City PropertiesThe committee discussed amending the city code for naming public properties, focusing on clarifying the process and the roles of the Park Board and City Council. The ordinance was referred to the Law Department for review. Motion to refer the ordinance on naming city properties to Corporation Counsel for review. — referredMotion to refer the ordinance on naming city properties to Corporation Counsel for review. Motion to adjourn the meeting. — passedMotion to adjourn the meeting. Links Read the meeting summary Watch the full meeting
Jul 24

Fall River Now — Weekly Recap, Week Ending July 24, 2026

Transcript Welcome to Fall River Now. This is our weekly recap for the week ending July 24, 2026, where we cover the most significant local government news. Topping the news, a City Council committee is backing the creation of a new panel to oversee school transportation funding. The Committee on Ordinances and Legislation, chaired by Councilor Andrew J. Raposo, also ordered a review of the city's billboard regulations this week. The moves followed public comment from School Committee member Collin R. Dias regarding a dispute over school transportation costs. Also this week, the Fall River School Committee voted to lower the number of graduation credits required for students at the Evolve Academy. The committee, led by Mayor Paul E. Coogan, also authorized spending up to one hundred fifty thousand dollars for technology following a report from its Policy Subcommittee. The city’s Historical Commission gave its support for two local projects at its meeting on Tuesday. The commission backed a resident's proposal to turn the former police station site at 158 Bedford Street into a memorial green space. It also gave its backing to the Globe Mills project. The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a petition to create a new single-family home lot on Crescent Street. At the same meeting, the board denied a request for a variance on Augusta Street. Several other petitions were continued to a future meeting. On city streets, resident complaints about potholes more than doubled from the previous week. Reports cited road damage near Highland Avenue and at the corner of Valentine and Robeson streets. One resident also filed a report about a bush at New Boston Road and Garden Street that is blocking drivers' view of oncoming traffic. Looking ahead, it will be a busy week at Government Center. The full City Council has scheduled a special meeting for Tuesday, July 28th. Other boards meeting next week include the Redevelopment Authority, the School Policy Subcommittee, the Board of Health, and the City Council's Public Safety Committee. Fall River Now generates content via AI, like this podcast. Check FallRiverNow.com for more information. In this episode Fall River Council Committee Backs New School Transportation Panel, Orders Billboard Ordinance Review on July 23 Fall River School Committee Lowers Graduation Credits for Evolve Academy on July 22 Fall River Historical Commission Backs Memorial Green, Globe Mills Project at July 21 Meeting Resident Reports Bush Obstructing View at New Boston Road Intersection Pothole Reported Near Highland Avenue Amid Rise in Complaints Pothole Reports Rise; New Damage Sighted at Valentine and Robeson Streets Fall River Zoning Board Approves Crescent Street Home Lot, Denies Augusta Street Variance on July 16

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