DALTON, Mass. — The Board of Water Commissioners on Wednesday voted to return to the town the balance left of American Rescue Plan Act funds allocated for a ladder ladder truck.
"We appreciate the support and trust the Town of Dalton has consistently extended to our fire and emergency medical services. As stewards of public funds, we recognize the importance of responsible financial management," board Chair James Driscoll wrote to the Select Board.
"We have determined that returning the unutilized ARPA funds aligns with our commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility."
In 2022, the Select Board approved transferring $119,500 in ARPA funds to the Fire District to purchase the "refurbished" ladder truck. The district is a separate governmental body from the town
On Oct.18, 2022, Northern Fire Equipment received a down payment of $77,000; the district will return the unspent $42,500.
The ladder truck was ordered in late 2022, but its delivery date has been changed at least four times. Northern Fire Equipment has said staffing shortages, change orders, and unexpected mechanical malfunctions have contributed to the delay.
The funds were earmarked for a specific purpose that can no longer be completed, so "we must ensure they are used effectively and efficiently," Driscoll wrote.
Last month, the board voted to seek legal action against Northern Fire Equipment for breaching the ladder truck contract in an attempt to recover the ARPA funds. More information here.
"We sincerely thank the Town of Dalton for its unwavering support over the years. Your continued investment in our fire and EMS services enables us to enhance public safety, respond promptly to emergencies, and serve our community with dedication," the letter to the Select Board says.
"Once again, thank you for your partnership and collaboration. We look forward to continuing our work together for the betterment of Dalton and its residents."
The decision to return the funds to the town passed with no discussion.
Town Manager Thomas Hutcheson attended the meeting and expressed how much he enjoyed his interactions with Fire Chief Christian Tobin. He said Tobin is one of the best hires the town has had since he joined.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.
Your Comments
iBerkshires.com welcomes critical, respectful dialogue. Name-calling, personal attacks, libel, slander or foul language is not allowed. All comments are reviewed before posting and will be deleted or edited as necessary.
No Comments
Possible Measles Exposure at Boston, Logan
BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed Wednesday that an out-of-state adult visitor who spent time in Boston and Westborough earlier this month was diagnosed with measles and was present in a number of locations.
This could have resulted in other people being exposed to measles virus.
The visitor arrived at Logan International Airport on American Airlines flight 2384 from Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, on Dec. 11 at 2:39 p.m. They stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Westborough in Westborough and departed the state on Dec. 12 via Logan at 9:19 p.m. on JetBlue flight 117 to Las Vegas.
DPH is working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local partners to identify and notify those who may have been exposed to measles from this individual.
"Measles is a highly contagious, airborne disease, which has increased significantly in the United States because of the unfortunate decrease in vaccination rates. It is also a preventable disease," said Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein. "This current situation serves as an important reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in protecting our communities. While Massachusetts has not had a measles case this year, 2025 saw the highest number of nationwide cases in more than a decade — nearly 2,000 in 44 jurisdictions, and sadly, three deaths.
"Fifteen years ago, measles had been considered eliminated in the United States, but that tremendous progress is at risk. Vaccines are one of the most important public health interventions ever — they are safe, effective, and lifesaving."
Measles is very contagious. However, the risk to most people in Massachusetts is low because the vaccination rate in the state is high. People who are not immune and visited any of the locations on the following dates and times may be at risk for developing measles.
The Select Board signed the sale on the last of what had been known as the Bardin property Monday even as a handful of residents demanded the right to speak against the action. click for more
Police Chief Thomas Dawley will retire next month after 24 years with the Pittsfield Police Department, and the mayor will appoint his successor.
click for more
Last weekend, LaBeau raced in the Mount Zion Snocross National race in Ironwood, Mich., the first of eight races in the national circuit series.
click for more
Brown hopes to one day work in a lab, feeding their strong interest in scientific research and making a positive difference in the world.
click for more
Prior to the ribbon-cutting, public officials and community resource personnel were able to tour the two new permanent supported housing projects — West Housatonic Apartments and The First Street Apartments and Housing Resource Center.
click for more