CHARLEMONT — The Cold River Pool located at Mohawk Trail State Forest remains closed to the public while the state Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks to modify a water vault that allows the agency to fill the swimming area. Work is expected to be completed later this month.
BUCKLAND — Now that all eight member-towns in the Mohawk Trail Regional School District have approved a regional agreement change that could be used to re-admit Rowe to the regional district, the ball is in Rowe’s court.
Superintendent Michael Buoniconti said he has informed Rowe School Committee Chairwoman Susan Zavotka of the unanimous vote. “She indicated that she would bring the matter to the Board of Selectmen for possible action,” he said.
If Rowe were to vote in favor of re-joining Mohawk, and the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education approves the regional agreement revision, it’s possible that Rowe could join the Mohawk district a year from now, Buoniconti said.
SHELBURNE — Selectmen accepted with regret John Taylor’s resignation from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Taylor mentioned time restraints as his reason for leaving the board. However, since the ZBA currently has no alternate member, Taylor said he is willing to temporarily serve as a ZBA alternate member until all the ZBA positions are filled.
Also, the board accepted the resignation of Highway Department worker Mark Nelson, who left after a year with the town to take another job.
SHELBURNE — Selectmen unanimously approved a new Visitors Code of Conduct policy, to ensure that town offices, as a workplace, are conducive to personal safety and free from intimidation, threats or violence.
The conduct code prohibits visitors to town offices from causing disturbances, being disrespectful, being discourteous, lewd or offensive. Also, smoking, drinking alcohol, or appearing to be under the influence of an illegal substance is prohibited, and violators could be asked to leave the building.
Also, anyone bringing complaints to the town or sending letters to town officials must sign the letters, because unsigned letters and anonymous messages will not be reviewed or considered.
SHELBURNE — Selectman Andrew Baker praised Tax Collector Maureen Pike for collecting $130,000 worth of back taxes and interest that had been in arrears going back to 2000. According to Baker, there are about $140,000 back taxes left to be collected, going back to about 2008. He said there are 10 properties now going through Land Court for tax title.