Selectman Patrick News Today

Despite some upbeat comments on town improvements from seasonal homeowners , tempers flared over an accessory dwelling unit bylaw proposal that would limited to permanent residents.

A two-hour discussion included extensive debate on the pros and cons of revenue-producing events at two of the town’s non-profits.

Madison Czopek Apr 20, 2021 New Police Chief Walter Correia (left) and retired former Chief John Walcek (right). Photos courtesy: Wareham Police Department and Meghan Neely Out with the old guard and in with the new: Wareham officially has its next chief of police.  The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved hiring Walter Correia — who has served in the department for years, most recently as a lieutenant — to replace former Chief John Walcek, who retired April 17. During the Ap...

STOCKBRIDGE — A guru of old-growth forests, Robert T. Leverett recalls first stepping into Ice Glen back in the early 1990s and thinking to himself, “Oh, my God. This is the real deal.” He declared it one of the most spectacular woodland stands in New England. But, today, he speaks with the funereal gloom of this misty-cloaked cleft just south of the village. Quote “It’s sad when an icon of the Northeast forest is lost. That’s what’s at stake here.” â€�...

This bioretention bed features plants similar to those proposed for Besse Park. Photo courtesy: Horsley Witten Group The selectmen spoke favorably on Feb. 9 about proposed upgrades to Besse Park that would reduce pollution from stormwater runoff that is channeled into the Agawam River. Besse Park, the strip of land at the end of Main Street that features picnic tables and a fishing pier, is also home to two storm drains that discharge directly into the river. Those drains significantly pollute ...

STOCKBRIDGE — In a move intended to protect residential areas from late-night music and noise, the Select Board has reinstated its policy of limiting annual entertainment licenses to an 11 p.m. curfew. But, for weddings, late-running theater productions or special events, board Chairman Ernest “Chuckie” Cardillo encouraged destinations like Tanglewood, the Berkshire Theatre Festival and the Wheatleigh resort to apply for special licenses allowing extended hours, when needed. He i...