Cheshire Finds New Use For Pipeline Funds
CHESHIRE, Mass. — The recent suspension of Kinder Morgan's Northeast Energy Direct pipeline project is freeing up funds for the town's master plan.
The Selectmen received a letter from the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission thanking them for being part of the working group the commission hosted that provided towns affected by the pipeline with counsel and legal representation.
Town Administrator Mark Webber said he spoke with BRPC about the $15,000 the town allocated to join the group and was urged to use the funds for the town's master plan.
"They suggested moving the $15,000 pledge across the hall into their master plan activities fund," Webber said.
The town has pursued the creation of a master plan since earlier this year. Webber said the town should have enough money to hit the anticipated $35,000 price tag on the master plan with state funds, BRPC funds, and the newly freed-up cash.
Webber said he will check with the town auditor to see procedurally what the town has to do to transfer the money.
The letter also stated that BRPC is still trying to clarify what "suspension" of the project really means and will contact the town with its findings.
The selectmen also received a letter from the Berkshire Environmental Task Force asking if it could install a turtle crossing sign on Cheshire-Lanesborough Road.
The letter stated that the task force had received multiple complaints about an unfortunate turtle that was hit while trying to cross the road.
The Selectmen had no issue with the installation of the signs.
"We will put up whatever the signs they want to help the turtles," Chairwoman Carol Francesconi said.
The letter stated that a donor was willing to pay for the signs.
Selectman Paul Astorino said all sports teams that use the concession stand at the elementary school will have to have the stand inspected at the end of the season going forward.
"The Little League had it last year and the thing was spotless inside and they came back this year and it was a filthy mess," Astorino said. "I don't know who used it football, lacrosse, or whatever but ... we have to have more control over that and we need to put a process in place."
Tags: BRPC, gas pipeline, master plan,
