03/16/1998 SELECT BOARD Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Board of Selectmen Minutes March lb, 1998 PUBLIC COMMENT: Beverly Kane requested information pertaining to the proposed zoning change related to Mashpee Commons. It was noted that the Planning Board is expected to schedule a Public Hearing prior to Town Meeting. Michael Evaul, Secretary of the Mashpee Firefighters Union related concern and objection with respect to the plan to move the fire dispatching duties to the Barnstable County Sheriff's Department. Currently, seven dispatchers handle both fire and police calls from the headquarters of the Mashpee Police Department. The County presently fields 911 calls for Mashpee, and dispatches for the Towns of Bourne and Barnstable. The Towns of Centerville, Osterville, Sandwich, and Otis conduct public safety dispatching in-house. Mr. Evaul indicated that local dispatchers have better knowledge of town roads, streets,ancient ways, personnel and equipment. There will be no local control if the dispatching goes to the County level explained Mr. Evaul. Gail McDonald, the Union Steward and Public Safety Dispatcher voiced concern to the proposal to protect the best interest of the Town of Mashpee. Ms. McDonald indicated that the proposal could endanger the safety of the public and firefighters. At this time, there is no agreement with the Union to change the dispatching stated Ms. McDonald. Louisa Oakley, a Public Safety Dispatcher and resident of the Town of Mashpee presented a petition to the Board comprised of 148 signatures in opposition to the change. Voters deserve to know both sides of the story explained Ms. Oakley who requested the Board allow the voters to decide at Town Meeting or defer approval of the change until a full Board is present. Jane Hendrick also insisted that Town Meeting be allowed to make the final determination.