Bellingham Housing Authority

The commission reviewed updates from the DPW Director regarding a proposed agreement with the local schools, which outlines maintenance responsibilities for various streets and properties, including snow removal, salting, and stormwater basin care. Discussion also focused on hiring strategies for summer staff to assist with park maintenance, trash pickup, and stormwater basin upkeep. Additionally, the commission discussed the standardization of signs for town recreation areas in coordination with the Transportation Advisory Committee and the Open Space Recreation Plan Committee, and touched upon website updates.

The meeting included a review of the Treasurer's Report detailing monthly general fund expenditures and balances for various revolving accounts, with discussion on maintaining positive balances. The Chairman's Report highlighted the success of the recent Chili Cook-off and provided updates on upcoming events such as the St. Patrick's Day event and a Vietnam War Veteran Recognition Event. The Senior Center Director's Report summarized weather challenges in January 2026, confirmed the success of the first Chili Cook Off, and detailed plans for expanding the parking lot, supported by a $65,000 earmark obtained with assistance from Senator Becky Rausch's office. Updates were also provided on new lunch services, the 'Thrive After Therapy' program, and documentary screenings for Black History Month. Business included a report from the BESG President on fundraising and upcoming catered events. Other business addressed issues concerning improperly parked vehicles and the acquisition and use of a police vehicle for medical transport appointments.

The meeting commenced with a Public Hearing Continuation regarding the Blackstone Street Improvements proposed by Wall Street Development Corp., which was subsequently continued to February 12, 2026, due to the need for peer review response. In General Business, the Planning Board unanimously endorsed the ANR Submittal for the proposed subdivision of the property at 5 Scott Street into two approximately six-acre lots. Additionally, members of the Open Space Committee presented information on the Community Preservation Act, and the Planning Board unanimously expressed support for the Act, noting its alignment with and potential funding for the Open Space and Recreation Plan.

The meeting involved continuation public hearings for several properties on Hartford Avenue. For 190, 194, and 198 Hartford Avenue, an applicant sought a Special Permit for a 10,000 +/- s.f. retail building. For 182-186 Hartford Avenue, an applicant sought a Special Permit for a 3,500 +/- s.f. bank with a drive-through; these hearings were continued to February 26, 2026. A significant continuation public hearing was held for 180 Paine Street regarding a Special Permit and Stormwater Management Permit for 1,600 age-restricted housing units. Discussions focused heavily on traffic, including Pulaski Boulevard signal operations, impacts to Wrentham Road, and a proposed emergency access route, with input provided by the traffic peer reviewer. Public comments raised concerns regarding overall project size, traffic increase, sidewalk provision, snow removal, and cut-through traffic on neighborhood roads. In general business, the Board considered whether a request to increase a pylon sign height from 40 feet to 100 feet at 250 Hartford Ave. constituted a major or minor modification, with a site visit suggested. The Board also unanimously approved the SNETT Trail Estate Bond at an adjusted amount of $418,792.

Key discussions during the meeting included voting on a proposed wage increase to be brought to Town Meeting, reviewing the 2025 Annual Report, and setting the 2026 Town Cleanup Date and Rain Date. Under Health Agent updates, topics covered were a PHEP Supplies Request, the MEHA -- Title V Seminar, and a discussion regarding the utilization of the Planet Aid Fund collected from home pick-ups. Correspondence reviewed included a notice from MHOA regarding a tobacco sale to a minor. The meeting also involved reviewing correspondence, plan reviews for 61 Lawrence Street, and paying outstanding bills.