Bristol County public meetings in 2025

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will review and approve personnel matters such as new hires, retirements, medical leaves, and terminations. They will also examine payroll and accounts payable warrants, and vote to approve the minutes from the December 9th meeting. A facilities superintendent will provide updates, including several invoices for work at Superior Courts and Registries of Deeds. An executive session is scheduled to discuss collective bargaining strategy.

• Review and approve personnel matters (new hires, retirements, medical leaves, terminations)
• Review payroll and accounts payable warrants
• Vote to approve minutes of the December 9, 2025 meeting
• Facilities superintendent update with multiple invoices for court and registry projects
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy

The board approved the County Plan (CP) as presented. They then approved five payroll and accounts‑payable warrants totaling $2,149,624.37. A series of invoices for court facility repairs, plumbing, and an insurance claim were also approved. The meeting was adjourned at 3:30 p.m.

• Approved the County Plan (CP) as presented (motion passed)
• Approved payroll warrant #26064 for $263,878.79 (motion passed)
• Approved payroll warrant #26068 for $244,878.22 (motion passed)
• Approved AP warrant #26057 for $428,171.61 (motion passed)
• Approved AP warrant #26065 for $396,304.15 (motion passed)
• Approved AP warrant #26066 for $816,291.60 (motion passed)
• Approved invoice #2639 from Elite Plumbing & Mechanical for $578.00 (motion passed)
• Approved invoice #2641 from Elite Plumbing & Mechanical for $4,300.00 (motion passed)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet to approve personnel changes and payroll warrants. The body will review facility updates and invoices for courts in Taunton, New Bedford, and Attleboro. An executive session is scheduled to discuss collective bargaining strategy.

• Personnel matters including new hires, retirements, and terminations
• MIAA health insurance invoice for December 2025
• Taunton Superior Court roof invoices from Folan Masonry and RGB
• New Bedford District Court invoices from AirMasters and Tighe & Bond, and a re-lamp proposal from Energy Solutions
• Attleboro District Court invoice from City Wide Glass

The board approved the employment of Kara L. Fitch as Equine Science Teacher. It approved several payroll and accounts‑payable warrants and a $484,512.52 payment from the MIIA Health Benefits Trust for December premiums. The commissioners also approved multiple facility invoices and project costs for district and superior courts. The meeting entered and exited executive session before adjourning.

• Approved employment of Kara L. Fitch, Equine Science Teacher (effective 11/24/25)
• Approved payroll warrants #26056 ($247,137.14) and #26059 ($241,055.32) and AP warrants #26058 ($22,151.25) and #26055 ($94,384.48)
• Approved $484,512.52 payment from MIIA Health Benefits Trust for County health premiums
• Approved Folan Waterproofing invoice $45,288.60 for Taunton Superior Court Masonry Phase 2
• Approved RGB Architects invoice $3,881.25 for Taunton Superior Court roof unforeseen conditions
• Approved Energy Solutions proposal $51,175.00 to re‑lamp New Bedford Third District Court
• Approved City Glass invoice $1,230.00 for Attleboro District Court window repairs
• Approved RGB Architects amendment $9,400.00 for New Bedford Superior Court historic window restoration

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will review personnel matters, payroll, and various invoices. The body will evaluate bids and determine the funding source for the Fall River Children’s Museum roof restoration. They will also consider an amended HVAC controls proposal for the New Bedford District Court.

• Fall River Children’s Museum roof restoration bid evaluation and funding vote
• New Bedford District Court amended HVAC Controls proposal from Tighe & Bond
• Mosaic Municipal Matching Grant Program
• Professional services invoice CLA L251692479
• Invoices from Lynch, Marini & Associates and RGB

The board approved several personnel position changes at the Bristol County Agricultural High School and authorized multiple warrants totaling $2,843,785.16. It also approved a series of invoices, committed $25,000 from the Opioid Abatement Settlement to a grant program, and awarded contracts for a $331,500 roof restoration at the Fall River Superior Court Children’s Museum and a $32,500 HVAC design amendment for the New Bedford District Court.

• Approved position changes for seven staff at Bristol County Agricultural High School
• Approved AP and payroll warrants totaling $2,843,785.16 (Warrant #26050, #26051, #26052, #26043, #26054)
• Approved $2,500 invoice to Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County (invoice BCC01112025)
• Approved $22,151.25 invoice to Clifton Larson Allen LLP (invoice #251692479)
• Committed $25,000 from Opioid Abatement Settlement to Mosaic Municipal Matching Grant Program
• Awarded $331,500 roof restoration contract to Almar LLC for Fall River Superior Court Children’s Museum
• Authorized $32,500 amendment to New Bedford District Court HVAC design to Tighe & Bond
• Approved $15,000 invoice to Lynch Marini & Associates for audit services

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will review personnel matters, payroll warrants, and the 2026 meeting schedule. The body will discuss facility updates for the Fall River Children’s Museum, Taunton Superior Court, Taunton Registry of Deeds, and New Bedford District Court.

• CLA ARPA consulting Invoice # L251548454
• Odyssey Advisors, Inc. actuarial valuation invoice
• Tree removal discussion at Fall River Children’s Museum /Registry
• Crocker Architectural applications 014, 015, and 016 for Taunton Superior Court
• Gorman Construction, Inc. roof and skylight leak work at New Bedford District Court

The board approved 14 staff position and funding changes at the Bristol County Agricultural High School and authorized three AP warrants totaling $302,282.48. They also approved a series of invoices for facility projects, including roof work at the Taunton Superior Court and tree removal at the Fall River Registry/Children’s Museum, and authorized a $486,748.92 payment for county health‑benefits premiums. Finally, they gave Chairman Mitchell authority to endorse the Medex 2 rate renewal for 2026.

• Approved 14 position/funding changes for Agricultural High School staff – unanimous
• Approved AP warrants #26046 ($288,807.37), #26047 ($13,367.01), #26048 ($108.11) – unanimous
• Approved $15,364.75 invoice to Clifton Larson Allen LLP – unanimous
• Approved $3,675.00 invoice to Odyssey Advisors, Inc. – unanimous
• Approved removal of two unhealthy trees at Fall River Registry/Children’s Museum – unanimous
• Approved $194,784.20 invoice to Crocker Architectural Sheet Metal for Taunton Superior Court roof – unanimous
• Approved $486,748.92 payment for County health‑benefits premiums (MITA Health Benefits Trust) – unanimous
• Authorized Chairman Mitchell to endorse Medex 2 rate renewal (12.11%) for 2026 – unanimous

Commissioners

The board will review and approve personnel changes for county employees, including new hires and retirements. They will examine payroll and accounts payable warrants. A vote will be taken on the Department of Transportation Order of Taking (Sept. 24, 2025, case 9009). The commissioners will also discuss and approve several invoices and service proposals for county facilities, such as masonry repairs at courts, HVAC upgrades, and electrical work.

• Review and approve personnel matters (new hires, retirements, medical leaves, terminations, classification changes).
• Review Payroll and Accounts Payable Warrants.
• Vote on Department of Transportation Order of Taking (Sept. 24, 2025, case 9009).
• Approve RGB invoices for masonry, roofing, and window repairs at Taunton Superior Court, New Bedford Superior Court, and Fall River Children’s Museum.
• Approve Tighe & Bond proposal for HVAC controls upgrades (B-5079-P004) for New Bedford District Court.

The board approved the employment changes at the Agricultural High School, accepted all payroll and accounts‑payable warrants presented, and authorized Chairman John R. Mitchell to sign the Massachusetts DOT land‑taking certificate for the New Bedford project. Additional motions approved payments for the Children’s Advocacy Center, a law‑firm invoice, and numerous facilities invoices for court‑related repairs and upgrades.

• Approved three employment actions at the Agricultural High School (substitute foreman, temp instructor, resignation)
• Approved payroll warrants #26038, #26041‑Uniform, #26040 as presented
• Approved AP warrants #26018 (revised), #26039, #26030, #26036, #26042 as presented
• Approved and authorized Chairman Mitchell to execute the DOT land‑taking certificate (Order of Taking, Layout #9009) for New Bedford
• Approved payment of $2,500.00 to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County (invoice BCCO1012025)
• Approved payment of $13,206.50 to Clifton Larson Allen LLP (invoice L251615497)
• Approved multiple facilities invoices for Taunton Superior Court, New Bedford Superior Court, and other county facilities totaling over $200,000
• Tabled the New Bedford District Court chiller & boiler upgrade proposal pending funding

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet to approve personnel changes, review payroll warrants, and discuss updates for Taunton and New Bedford courthouses. The body will also consider a collective bargaining executive session.

• Personnel matters: new hires, retirements, and terminations
• Review of Payroll and AP Warrants
• Approval of September 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Payment of October 2025 MIIA Invoice
• Facilities updates for Taunton Superior Court and New Bedford courts

The board unanimously approved the issuance of the FY2026 county tax to all Bristol County municipalities. They also approved a $484,145.63 payment to the MIIA Health Benefits Trust for October 2025 premiums and two payments to Lemieux Heating Inc. for work at the Taunton Superior Court. Additional actions included fee‑waiver for Eagle COH courthouse use and appointments to custodial positions.

• Approved FY2026 county tax issuance to Bristol County municipalities (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $484,145.63 to MIIA Health Benefits Trust for October 2025 premiums (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $27,950.00 to Lemieux Heating Inc. for heating coil replacement at Taunton Superior Court (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $6,950.00 to Lemieux Heating Inc. for filter rack installation at Taunton Superior Court (unanimous)
• Approved waiver of fees for Eagle COH use of Taunton Superior Courthouse on Jan 14, 2026 (unanimous)
• Appointed Berlin Newson to floating custodial position pending replacement hire (unanimous)
• Appointed Sean P. Fagan to vacant custodial position in Attleboro District Court (unanimous)
• Approved CPs, payroll warrant #26035 ($233,176.10) and AP warrants #26034 ($157,711.66) & #26037 ($8,232.00) as presented (unanimous)

Commissioners

The board will review and approve personnel actions such as new hires, retirements, and classifications. They will vote on Department of Transportation orders of taking dated May 28, 2025 and June 25, 2025. Additional items include payroll and warrant review, invoice reviews, a facilities superintendent update, and an ARPA update. An executive session will address collective bargaining strategy.

• Review and approve personnel matters (new hires, retirements, classifications)
• Vote on Department of Transportation Order of Taking – May 28, 2025
• Vote on Department of Transportation Order of Taking – June 25, 2025
• Review Children’s Advocacy Center invoice for September 2025
• Facilities Superintendent updates: RGB masonry services at Taunton Superior Court; Tighe & Bond services invoice at New Bedford Superior Court; Advanced Air emergency repair at New Bedford District Court

The Bristol County Commissioners approved three September 2025 warrants totaling over $800,000, authorized several vendor payments for court facility projects, and endorsed Department of Transportation easement documents. All motions passed unanimously. No other business was taken up.

• Approved AP Warrant #26027 for $571,366.66 (unanimous)
• Approved AP Warrant #26031 for $29,179.54 (unanimous)
• Approved Payroll Warrant #26032 for $233,291.78 (unanimous)
• Approved $2,500 payment to Children’s Advocacy Center (unanimous)
• Approved $7,762.50 design services for Taunton Superior Court Masonry Phase II (unanimous)
• Approved $8,232 payment to Tighe & Bond Designer Services for HVAC design at New Bedford 3rd District Court (unanimous)
• Approved $58,662.50 payment to East Coast Masonry & Restoration for New Bedford Superior Court façade restoration (unanimous)
• Authorized chair to endorse DOT Taking in Layout 9105 in Attleboro (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will review personnel actions, payroll warrants, and approve the minutes of the August 19, 2025 meeting. They will vote on an amendment to the FY25 end‑of‑year budget closing and transfer request. The agenda also includes discussion of the Purdue direct opioid settlement and several facility‑related payment proposals.

• Review and approve personnel matters (new hires, retirements, medical leaves, terminations)
• Vote to amend FY25 End of Year Budget Closing & Transfer Request
• Consider National Opioids Settlement: Purdue Direct Settlement
• Approve Lunch, Marini & Associates invoice for year‑end services
• Facilities Superintendent updates: payment applications for Taunton Superior Court (Folan #5, Crocker PCO #6‑8) and advanced air & heat proposals for New Bedford courts

The Bristol County Commissioners approved several facility maintenance contracts, including gutter restoration and HVAC repairs. They also authorized a budget transfer for Bristol Aggie and an application for the National Opioids Settlement.

• Approved 11 employment matters for Bristol County Agricultural High School (Unanimous)
• Approved Payroll and AP warrants totaling $522,135.23 (Unanimous)
• Approved encumbering $576,076.17 for FY26 Bristol Aggie payroll and transferring $479,518.32 to Chapter 6 Account (Unanimous)
• Authorized application for National Opioids Settlement: Purdue Direct Settlement (Unanimous)
• Approved $185,041.00 for gutter restoration and waterproofing by Crocker Architectural Sheet Metal Company (Unanimous)
• Approved $29,179.54 for Folan Waterproofing & Construction (Unanimous)
• Approved snow removal proposals for Reis Property Management and Gary Ford (Unanimous)
• Approved $476,691.12 for September 2025 MIIA Health Benefits Trust premiums (Unanimous)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will vote on FY25 budget closing and transfer requests. The body will also review invoices and repair authorizations for several county courthouses and the Fall River Children’s Museum.

• FY25 End of Year Budget Closing & Transfer Request
• FY2026 Taunton Deeds Excise Revenue letter from Department of Revenue
• New Bedford District Court rail system repairs and emergency electrical repairs
• RGB invoices for Fall River Children’s Museum, Taunton Superior Court, and New Bedford Superior Court
• CLA ARPA consulting Invoice # L251488233

The commissioners unanimously approved employment appointments for the Bristol County Agricultural High School, adopted several payroll and accounts payable warrants, and authorized FY25 end‑of‑year budget transfers totaling $1.41 million. They also approved multiple facility invoices and repair quotes, accepted surplus technology equipment, ratified contracts with four labor unions, and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved nine employment appointments for the Agricultural High School (unanimous)
• Approved payroll and AP warrants totaling $2,224,247.78 (unanimous)
• Approved FY25 budget closing and transfers: $574,292.23 payroll encumbrance, $481,302.26 transfer to Chapter 6, $355,711.97 excess revenue transfer (unanimous)
• Approved payment of invoice $14,290.50 to Clifton Larson Allen LLP (unanimous)
• Approved facility invoices: $13,745.00 (Fall River Children’s Museum), $11,530.00 (Taunton Superior Court Roof), $2,000.00 (New Bedford Superior Court) (unanimous)
• Approved repair quotes for New Bedford District Court: $4,866.89 (iron rail), $1,732.46 (electrical), $660.00 (door closer) (unanimous)
• Approved surplus technology equipment memo (unanimous)
• Ratified contracts with Teamsters Local 59, United Autoworkers Local 1596, OPEIU Local 6, and Segreganset Teachers Association (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will review personnel matters and payroll warrants. The body will also vote on funding for facility repairs at several county locations.

• Personnel matters including new hires, retirements, and terminations
• Window repairs at the Fall River Children’s Museum
• Storage shed and associated work at Attleboro District Court
• $948 for the replacement of the South Exterior Door at New Bedford Registry of Deeds
• MIIA Invoice for August 2025

The board approved several payroll and accounts‑payable warrants totaling $540,207.03. They also approved the August MIIA invoice for $486,379.94 and a second $400,000 payment to WPI for the New Bedford Superior Court repair contract. All motions passed with unanimous support from Commissioners Mitchell, Ruggiero, and Saunders.

• Approved Payroll Warrant #26012 for $235,806.85 (unanimous)
• Approved Payroll Warrant #26015 for $224,778.58 (unanimous)
• Approved AP Warrant #26013 for $74,558.13 (unanimous)
• Approved AP Warrant #26014 for $4,864.47 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of August MIIA Invoice $486,379.94 (unanimous)
• Approved second payment $400,000 to WPI for New Bedford Superior Court repairs (unanimous)
• Approved $8,065 payment to East Coast Shed Inc. and RM Ryan Earthworks for storage shed at Attleboro District Court (unanimous)
• Approved $948 payment to Ironmonger for South Exterior Door repair at New Bedford Registry of Deeds (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet to approve personnel changes and payroll warrants. The body will discuss several facility maintenance awards and contracts across county courthouses and registries of deeds. The meeting includes the appointment of the new county administrator as records access officer.

• Issuance of a county credit card to the new county administrator
• Appointment of new county administrator as records access officer
• Massachusetts Clean Water Trust net loan repayment
• Facility awards for HVAC repair at Fall River Registry of Deeds and PTAC unit replacement at Attleboro District Court
• Authorization for CPC Window Restoration agreement at New Bedford Superior Court

The Bristol County Commissioners unanimously approved a series of financial warrants, employment notices, and contract awards. They authorized a county credit card for the new County Administrator and appointed him as records access officer. Major awards included a $100,000 historic window preservation project in New Bedford and a $33,500 roof replacement for the Fall River Children’s Museum.

• Approved employment notices (terminations, promotions, reclassifications) from the Agricultural High School (unanimous)
• Approved payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $600,000 (unanimous)
• Authorized issuance of a county credit card for the new County Administrator and appointed him as records access officer (unanimous)
• Authorized acceptance of a $100,000 award for the New Bedford Superior Court historic window preservation project (unanimous)
• Awarded $8,000 abatement design to RGB for the Taunton Superior Court masonry project (unanimous)
• Awarded service contracts to Commercial Boiler Systems for court and registry VRF maintenance totaling $4,300 (unanimous)
• Approved $2,490 wall restoration and $1,160.05 carpet tile installation for the Assistant Chief Court Officer’s office (unanimous)
• Awarded $33,500 to RGB for the Fall River Children’s Museum roof replacement (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet to address personnel changes, payroll, and budget transfers. The board will also consider a surplus property request from the Bristol County Agricultural School.

• Change orders from Crocker Sheet Metal for the Taunton Superior Court roof project
• Surplus property request from the Bristol County Agricultural School
• FY’26 building and officers liability insurance invoices
• Invoice from MIIA for July 2025 health insurance
• Invoice from Clifton, Larson and Allen for June

The Commissioners approved several FY 2025 budget transfers and encumbrances for the Agricultural High School and various court buildings. They also authorized insurance premiums for FY 2026 and approved two change orders for roofing and masonry work at the Taunton Superior Court.

• Approved FY 2026 insurance premiums totaling $348,548.28 (3-0)
• Approved $18,066.30 invoice for Clifton Larson Allen LLP (3-0)
• Approved $477,411.83 for MIIA Health Benefits Trust July premiums (3-0)
• Approved $593,019.63 to encumber FY 2026 summer payroll for Agricultural High School (3-0)
• Approved $33,827.00 change order #5 for Crocker Architectural Sheet Metal Company (3-0)
• Approved $50,459.05 change order #4 for Crocker Architectural Sheet Metal Company (3-0)
• Approved FY 2025 budget and expense transfers for various registries and the print shop (3-0)
• Amended FY 2026 Buildings Budget to $3,880,945.14 for custodian overtime (3-0)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet to address the retirement of the current County Administrator and the process for hiring a replacement. The body will also review a revised encumbered vote for work in Taunton.

• Revised encumbered vote for work in Taunton
• Retirement of County Administrator
• Hiring of new County Administrator

The commissioners rescinded the June 24, 2025 vote on Air Masters and Elite Plumbing, then approved new contracts for valve work totaling $9,852 and $6,943 for the Taunton Superior Court and Registry of Deeds buildings. They accepted the resignation of County Administrator Gomes and appointed Paul B. Kitchen as the new administrator at an annual salary of $77,500. The meeting was adjourned at 11:44 pm.

• Rescinded the June 24, 2025 vote on Air Masters and Elite Plumbing (unanimous)
• Approved Air Masters valve contract totaling $9,852.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Elite Plumbing valve installation contract totaling $6,943.00 (unanimous)
• Accepted County Administrator Gomes' resignation effective July 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Paul B. Kitchen as County Administrator effective July 3, 2025 with salary $77,500.00 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:44 pm (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners are meeting to conduct an executive session. The purpose of this session is to conduct negotiations with non-union individuals.

• Executive session for negotiations with non-union individuals

Commissioners

The Commissioners will conduct budget reviews for the Commissioner's Office, Treasurer's Office, Print Shop, Buildings, and the registries of deeds for Taunton, New Bedford, and Fall River. The body will also vote on invoices and personnel matters.

• Vote to pay WPI Construction Inc. invoice
• Audit Engagement letter from Lynch Marini & Associates, Inc.
• Invoice from the Children’s Advocacy Center for June 2025
• Change order proposal from Air Masters for Taunton Superior Court projects
• Budget reviews for seven county departments

The board ratified a $339,000 payment to WPI Construction for a court roof project and approved vacation carry‑over for several BCAHS employees. It also approved payments for a children’s advocacy center, carpet cleaning, museum repairs, and steam‑valve work. The commissioners adopted FY2026 budgets for all county registries, the print shop, the treasurer’s office, the commissioner’s office, and the building budget, and increased the county treasurer’s salary by $12,000.

• Ratified $339,000 payment to WPI Construction for New Bedford Superior Court roof replacement (approved)
• Approved vacation carry‑over request for listed BCAHS administrators and assistant (approved)
• Approved $3,500 payment to Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County (approved)
• Approved $3,955 carpet‑cleaning contract for New Bedford 3rd District Court (approved)
• Approved $11,761 painting/repair contract for Fall River Children’s Museum Water Room (approved)
• Approved repair of steam valves at Taunton Superior Court and Northern Registry of Deeds, up to $20,000 total (approved)
• Approved FY2026 budgets: Northern Registry of Deeds $2,608,620.81; Southern Registry $2,163,602.29; Fall River Registry $1,469,900.31; Print Shop $107,700.00; Treasurer’s Office $618,078.51; Commissioner’s Office $418,200.58; Building $3,845,945.14 (approved)
• Increased County Treasurer Christopher Saunders base salary by $12,000 for FY2026 (approved)

Commissioners

The Commissioners are meeting to hold an executive session. The purpose of the session is to discuss potential litigation.

• Executive Session regarding potential litigation

Commissioner Saunders moved, and Commissioner Ruggatore seconded, to enter executive session at 4:17 p.m. to discuss potential litigation. All three commissioners voted yes, so the motion passed. The meeting then continued in closed session.

• Approved executive session to discuss potential litigation (3-0)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to discuss priority needs for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The body will also review accounts payable and payroll warrants.

• Priority Needs Hearing for the FY ’26 Budget
• Approval of AP and Payroll warrants

The commissioners read into the record Payroll Warrant #25135, which had been approved on June 16, 2025 for $230,407.28. A motion to close the public hearing and adjourn the meeting was made, seconded, and unanimously approved by both commissioners.

• Approved Payroll Warrant #25135 for $230,407.28 (previously approved on 6/16/25)
• Motion to close public hearing and adjourn passed (both commissioners voted yes)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet to review personnel changes, payroll, and various invoices. The body will also receive updates on courthouse projects in Taunton and New Bedford.

• Cardozo Contracting estimate for AC removal and replacement at New Bedford Superior Court
• FY’26 building/liability insurance rates
• Invoice from the Bristol County Retirement Board for FY’26
• Invoice from Clifton Larson and Allen for May 2025
• Invoice from MIIA Health for June 2025

The Bristol County Commissioners approved several high-value appropriations for retirement systems and health benefits. They also authorized a new insurance program for FY 2026 and hired a manager for the County Print Shop.

• Approved $2,417,274.00 for Sheriff’s Department Unfunded Liability to Retirement System
• Approved $1,537,668.00 appropriation for County of Bristol Retirement System
• Approved $438,044.29 for June 2025 MIIA Health Benefits Trust premiums
• Authorized FY 2026 Commercial Insurance Program renewal with Alera Group for $348,548.28
• Approved hiring Victoria Bradshaw for Print Shop manager at $36.00/hour (25 hours/week)
• Approved $1,560.00 contract with Jose Cardozo Contracting Co. for AC unit at Taunton Superior Court
• Approved $12,492.50 payment to Clifton Larson Allen LLP
• Approved vacation carry-over for specific Registry of Deeds and County staff through Sept 30, 2025

Commissioners

The Commissioners will discuss preliminary budget reports and various facility maintenance proposals. The body is also reviewing personnel matters and ARPA votes. An executive session is scheduled to discuss litigation and contract negotiations.

• Advance Air & Heat proposal for chiller repairs at New Bedford Superior Court
• J. Roia Electrical proposal for electric work at the Attleboro District Court
• 4-year lease contract for a Ricoh copier in the County Commissioner’s Office
• Mass DOT Order of Taking-Town of Mansfield # 9004
• R.A. Mitchell invoice for generator service at New Bedford 3rd District

The Commissioners approved several facility maintenance contracts, including a major restoration project in New Bedford and a window study in Taunton. They also authorized the use of ARPA funds for emergency masonry repairs and approved multiple payroll and AP warrants.

• Awarded $1,235,000 contract to East Coast Masonry & Restoration, Inc. for New Bedford Superior Court façade restoration
• Approved $398,070.25 in ARPA funds for emergency Phase 2 Masonry project repairs by Folan Waterproofing & Construction Co. Inc.
• Approved $15,670.00 contract with RGB Architects for a window study at Taunton Registry of Deeds
• Approved 4-year lease with Ricoh USA, Inc. for $87.75/month for the County Commissioner’s Office
• Approved $7,130.00 estimate from Advance Air & Heat Company Inc. for roof exhaust fans at New Bedford 3rd District Court
• Approved $1,900.00 estimate from J. Roia Electrical for work at Attleboro 4th District Court
• Approved $560.28 invoice from R.A. Mitchell for generator servicing at New Bedford Third District Court
• Approved vacation carry-over requests for Treasurer’s Office staff and Taunton Registry of Deeds employees

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet on May 13, 2025, to vote on personnel changes, approve payroll and accounts payable warrants, and review minutes from prior meetings. They will also consider invoices for the FY'24 audit and monthly services, and receive updates on courthouse projects, including an emergency waiver for masonry repairs and a vote on scaffolding. The meeting includes an executive session for litigation strategy and union contract negotiations.

• Review and approve personnel matters (new hires, retirements, medical leaves, terminations)
• Lynch Marini invoice for FY'24 audit
• DCAMM emergency waiver approval on Masonry Phase 2 project
• Vote on Crocker scaffolding and discussion of emergency repairs
• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy and union contract negotiations

The Commissioners authorized the use of ARPA returned funds and state sustainable funds for emergency Phase 2 masonry repairs. They also approved several facility maintenance contracts and various payroll and accounts payable warrants.

• Approved $526,333 for emergency repair Phase 2 masonry project (3-0)
• Approved $57,650 proposal from Robinson Green Beretta Corp. for Phase 2 emergency repair services (3-0)
• Authorized bidding process for Phase 3 Masonry re-pointing at Taunton Superior Court (3-0)
• Approved $20,261 payment to Clifton Larson Allen LLP (3-0)
• Approved $6,000 payment to Lynch Marini & Associates, Inc. for FY2024 Audit (3-0)
• Approved $2,500 for Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County May operating expenses (3-0)
• Approved Comcast contract for modem/gateway rental at New Bedford Superior Court (3-0)
• Approved unpaid leave of absence for Michael Vining through June 30, 2025 (3-0)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet on May 8, 2025 at the Taunton Superior Courthouse to review current building construction issues at that courthouse. Public input and press time are scheduled. The next regular meeting is set for May 13.

• Review of building construction issues at Taunton Superior Courthouse

The Bristol County Commissioners approved a contract for emergency masonry repairs to the inner dome bricks and steel beams at the Taunton Superior Court. The project will be awarded to Folan Waterproofing and Construction Co., Inc. and funded via ARPA funds.

• Approved Phase 2 emergency masonry repair at Taunton Superior Court to Folan Waterproofing and Construction Co., Inc. for $434,856.00

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will vote on personnel matters, payroll warrants, and minutes from April 15. They will consider a bond for Register of Deeds Mello, approve a CPA award for window restoration at New Bedford Superior Court, and review an actuarial valuation proposal. Facilities updates include projects at Taunton and New Bedford courthouses, plus a discussion on health care enrollment policy changes. An executive session is scheduled for litigation and contract negotiations.

• Bond received for Register of Deeds Mello
• CPA Award letter for window restoration at New Bedford Superior Court
• Request to declare as surplus ride-on lawnmower at New Bedford 3rd District Court
• GASB 74/75 actuarial valuation services proposal
• Discussion on updating policy on health care enrollment pre & post retirement

The Commissioners approved several payroll and AP warrants, health benefit payments, and a contract for actuarial services. They also authorized the acceptance of a $100,000 grant for window preservation at the New Bedford Superior Court.

• Approved $437,694.72 for May County of Bristol Monthly Membership Premiums
• Approved $7,350 contract with Odyssey Advisors for actuarial valuation and consulting services
• Authorized acceptance of $100,000 from City of New Bedford for historical Window Preservation Project
• Approved Payroll Warrants #25117 ($230,569.53) and #25118 ($219,968.22)
• Approved AP Warrants #25114 ($46,878.46) and #25115 ($30,083.66)
• Authorized hiring of Advance Air & Heat Inc. for AC4 unit repair not to exceed $2,500
• Declared old Husqvarna ride on lawn mower at New Bedford 3rd District Court as surplus
• Tabled discussion on pre and post-retirement health enrollment policy

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will vote on personnel changes, payroll warrants, and minutes from April 1. They will discuss contract negotiations with the Register of Deeds, review the June 30, 2024 final audit, and revisit a prior bond vote involving Lemieux. Other items include requests to use a courtroom, a boiler repair quote, a lawnmower purchase, and masonry repairs. An executive session is scheduled for litigation, union contract negotiations, and a personnel matter.

• Request from David Santoro to use Attleboro 4th District Courtroom on May 20, 2025
• Fall River Children’s Museum boiler repair quote
• Purchase of a replacement ride-on lawnmower for New Bedford 3rd District Court
• Next stage of masonry repair at Taunton Superior Court
• M-V Electrical proposal for relay replacement at New Bedford 3rd District Court

The Commissioners approved several maintenance contracts, including a boiler replacement for the Fall River Children’s Museum and a new lawnmower for the New Bedford 3rd District Court. They also authorized $25,000 for the Bristol County Fire Chiefs Association from the FY 2026 budget.

• Approved $19,224 boiler section replacement at Fall River Children’s Museum (George T. Wilkinson, Inc.)
• Authorized $25,000 for Bristol County Fire Chiefs Association from FY 2026 budget
• Approved $2,896.04 for John Deere lawn tractor for New Bedford 3rd District Court (United Ag & Turf NE)
• Approved $16,400 payment to Clifton Larson Allen LLP
• Approved $2,500 for Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County March operating expenses
• Approved $280 for relay replacement at New Bedford 3rd District Court (M-V Electrical Contractors, Inc.)
• Approved $838 for Taunton Superior Court coil replacement performance bond (Lemieux Heating, Inc.)
• Approved use of Attleboro 4th District Court for Eagle Court of Honor on May 20, 2025

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet to review personnel matters, payroll, and the county purchase order system. The body will discuss updates on ARPA funds and facility projects at the Taunton Superior Court and New Bedford court house. The meeting includes an executive session regarding litigation and contract negotiations.

• Review of personnel matters including new hires and retirements
• Update on ARPA funds
• Facilities updates for Taunton Superior Court and New Bedford court house projects
• Discussion on the Climate Coalition
• Review of the County Purchase Order System

The Commissioners approved three payment warrants totaling $1,213,855.43 and voted to join the Transatlantic Climate Alliance. They also authorized specific facility repairs and staff training costs.

• Approved Payroll Warrant #25108 ($229,190.13), AP Warrant #25107 ($447,886.55), and AP Warrant #25106 ($536,778.75) (3-0)
• Approved minutes of March 25, 2025 (3-0)
• Authorized outside contractor Victoria Bradshaw for part-time Print Shop coverage (3-0)
• Voted to join the Transatlantic Climate Alliance (3-0)
• Approved $800 separate invoice for Lemieux Heating performance bond at Taunton Superior Court (3-0)
• Tabled Children’s Museum boiler replacement quotes until April 15th (3-0)
• Approved $60 training fee plus mileage for two custodians to attend MFAA Training in Bourne, MA (3-0)
• Tabled discussion on the electronic Purchase Order system (3-0)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will discuss facility updates for the Taunton Superior Court and New Bedford 3rd District Court. The body will also review health insurance for FY 2026 and a software contract for the Northern District Register of Deeds.

• 5-year Software Serving Contract for Northern District Register of Deeds
• Proposals to replace Steam Coil Unit and remove AC at Taunton Superior Court
• MV Electrical proposal to replace relay switches at New Bedford 3rd District Court
• FY 2026 health insurance review
• Request from BCAHS to declare items as surplus

The Commissioners approved several facility repairs, including a $27,950 heating coil replacement for Taunton Superior Court. The board also accepted FY2026 health benefit rates and authorized a five-year software maintenance contract for the Northern Bristol County Register of Deeds.

• Awarded $27,950 heating coil replacement contract to Lemieux Heating Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved 5-year software maintenance contract with Avenu Insights & Analytics, LLC (Unanimous)
• Accepted FY2026 MIIA Health Benefits Trust rates with a 9.92% premium increase (Unanimous)
• Approved $7,850 emergency boiler repair at Fall River Registry of Deeds via Lemieux Heating Inc. (Unanimous)
• Wrote off $17,948.98 in uncollected out-of-county tuition debt (Unanimous)
• Approved $437,746.85 payment to MITA Health Benefits Trust for April premiums (Unanimous)
• Authorized installation of vending machines at Taunton and New Bedford Superior Courts (Unanimous)
• Approved $1,740 for AC unit removal at Taunton Superior Court and $1,680 for electrical repairs at New Bedford 3rd District Court (Unanimous)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will hold a statutory meeting to vote on routine personnel and financial items, including payroll warrants and minutes. They will discuss and potentially vote on proposals for facility upgrades at the Taunton Superior Court and New Bedford 3rd District Court, including steam coil replacement, AC removal, and relay switch replacement. The board will also review health insurance options for FY2026 and enter executive session for litigation, contract negotiations, and a personnel matter.

• Vote to approve minutes of March 4, 2025
• Proposals to replace steam coil unit at Taunton Superior Court
• Proposal for AC removal in Taunton Superior Courtroom
• Proposal from MV Electrical to replace relay switches at New Bedford 3rd District Court
• Discussion of health insurance for FY2026

The Commissioners approved several facility repairs, including a heating coil replacement and boiler repair. They also authorized a five-year software maintenance contract for the Northern Bristol County Register of Deeds and approved various payroll and expense warrants.

• Awarded $27,950 heating coil replacement contract to Lemieux Heating Inc. (Unanimous)
• Authorized 5-year software maintenance contract with Avenu Insights & Analytics, LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved $7,850 emergency boiler repair at Fall River Registry of Deeds via Lemieux Heating Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved $1,740 to Jose Cardozo Contracting, Co to remove AC units at Taunton Superior Court (Unanimous)
• Approved $1,680 to M-V Electrical Contractors, Inc. for relay replacement at New Bedford 3rd District Court (Unanimous)
• Wrote off $17,948.98 in uncollected out-of-county tuition debt (Unanimous)
• Approved MIIA Health Benefits Trust rates for FY 2026, reflecting a 9.92% premium increase (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of $393.19 office chair for County Administrator (Unanimous)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will vote on personnel changes, payroll warrants, and minutes from the previous meeting. They will also discuss several capital and operational items including three MassDOT property takings in Swansea and Easton, an air quality report for the New Bedford 3rd District Court, a contract extension for elevator services, and an ARPA contract addendum. The board will consider health insurance for FY2026 and hold an executive session on litigation and contract negotiations.

• Three MassDOT Orders of Taking in Swansea (two) and Easton (one)
• Discussion on ARPA contract addendum draft
• Health insurance for FY2026
• Air quality report and estimate for New Bedford 3rd District Court
• Delta Beckwith Elevator Company contract extension

The Commissioners authorized land taking certificates for projects in Swansea and Easton and awarded an elevator maintenance contract to Delta-Beckwith Elevator. They also approved several payroll and AP warrants and a contract addendum for ARPA compliance.

• Approved $8,099.88 annual elevator maintenance contract with Delta-Beckwith Elevator
• Approved $28,876.00 change order for Taunton Superior Court dome repair
• Authorized land taking certificates for Layout #9080 and #8885 in Swansea
• Authorized land taking certificate for Layout #9012 in Easton
• Approved $444,629.75 payment to MITA Health Benefits Trust for March 2025 premiums
• Approved ARPA Contract Addendum for future contract amendments
• Approved payroll and AP warrants totaling $675,141.65
• Tabled FY 2026 health insurance rate discussion until March 25, 2025

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will review and vote on several administrative and financial items, including personnel changes, payroll warrants, and the approval of prior meeting minutes. Notable discussions include a mortar repair estimate for Attleboro 4th District Court, a letter from the New Bedford Preservation Committee regarding the New Bedford Superior Court project, and facilities updates such as a torch installation and change order at Taunton Superior Court. The board will also consider a bond for Derek Costa and close out a workers' compensation case. An executive session is scheduled to discuss litigation, security strategies, and contract negotiations.

• Review and approve personnel changes (new hires, retirements, medical leaves, terminations)
• Vote to approve minutes of February 4, 2025
• Consider estimate for mortar repair at Attleboro 4th District Court
• Facilities update: torch installation and change order from Thielsch at Taunton Superior Court
• Letter from New Bedford Preservation Committee on New Bedford Superior Court project

The Bristol County Commissioners approved several facility contracts, including a temperature control system for the Northern Registry of Deeds and Taunton Superior Court. They also accepted $100,000 in CPA funds for window restoration at the New Bedford Superior Courthouse and authorized multiple emergency roof repairs.

• Approved $45,250 contract with Air Masters HVAC of N.E. Inc for temperature control systems (3-0)
• Accepted $100,000 in CPA funds from the City of New Bedford for courthouse window restoration (3-0)
• Approved payment of $1,640 to Gorman Construction for emergency roof repair at Attleboro 4th District Court (3-0)
• Approved payment of $1,960 to Gorman Construction for emergency roof repair at Fall River Registry of Deeds (3-0)
• Approved $17,234 invoice from Clifton Larson Allen LLP (3-0)
• Approved $8,000 invoice from Lynch Marini & Associates, Inc. for audit services (3-0)
• Approved $2,500 for Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County operating expenses (3-0)
• Approved payroll and AP warrants totaling $1,314,848.53 (3-0)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will vote on personnel changes, warrants, and minutes, and consider a bond for Derek Costa. They will also review invoices for worker's compensation closeout, facility repairs at Attleboro 4th District Court, and an update on Taunton Superior Court projects. An executive session is scheduled to discuss litigation, security, and contract negotiations.

• Review and approve personnel matters including new hires, retirements, and terminations
• Bond for Derek Costa
• Estimate for mortar repair at Attleboro 4th District Court
• Letter from New Bedford Preservation Committee on New Bedford Superior Court project
• Facilities update: torch installation and change order from Thielsch at Taunton Superior Court

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will meet to approve personnel actions, payroll warrants, and minutes from January 21. They will also discuss a travel/phone allowance for the Assistant Facilities Director, MIIA health insurance invoice, website annual fee, a tax deduction incentive request, and a disciplinary form. A proposal for elevator preventative maintenance at the NB Registry of Deeds and a discussion on MIIA insurance rates are on the agenda. Facilities updates include change orders for Taunton Superior Court projects and a site plan discussion for the HVAC project at New Bedford 3rd District Court, along with surplus property requests from BCAHS and NB 3rd Dist. Court. The meeting will also enter executive session to discuss litigation and contract negotiations.

• Review and approve personnel matters including new hires, retirements, medical leaves, and terminations
• Change Order from Crocker for Taunton Superior Court projects
• Change Order from Thielsch for Taunton Superior Court projects
• Travel and phone allowance for Assistant Facilities Director/Senior Building Custodian
• Surplus property requests from BCAHS and New Bedford 3rd District Court

The Bristol County Commissioners approved several payroll and AP warrants and a payment for February health membership premiums. The board also authorized facility maintenance, approved personnel appointments for the Agricultural High School, and declared several sets of technology equipment as surplus.

• Approved $441,186.20 for MITA Health Benefits Trust February premiums (3-0)
• Approved Payroll Warrants #25088, #25090 and AP Warrants #25086, #25087 (3-0)
• Approved employment of Dawnne Steele, Amy Sirois, and Jorge Cardenas; Christine Carley placed on hold (3-0)
• Approved $200 monthly travel and $40 monthly phone allowance for Brian Moniz (3-0)
• Approved $2,990 annual fee for Revize LLC website service (3-0)
• Approved preventative elevator maintenance for New Bedford Register of Deeds (3-0)
• Declared technology equipment from Bristol County Agricultural High School and items from New Bedford 3rd District Court as surplus (3-0)
• Tabled Crocker Architectural Sheet Metal Company Inc. change order for scaffolding rental (3-0)

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will discuss and vote on administrative items including personnel changes, payroll warrants, and approval of prior meeting minutes. They will also consider a bond for Register Amaral, review a change order for scaffolding at Taunton Superior Court, and receive updates on the FY'26 budget preliminary draft schedule and facilities projects.

• Bond for Register Amaral
• FY'26 Budget preliminary draft schedule
• Change order discussion — Scaffolding at Taunton Superior Court
• Proposal for Fall River Registry building fire alarm panel
• Invoices for legal services and facility repairs

The Commissioners approved several warrants and invoices for legal, plumbing, and security services. They awarded a lighting replacement contract for the New Bedford 3rd District Court and tabled a roof proposal for the Fall River Children’s Museum due to lack of funds.

• Approved Payroll and AP Warrants totaling $1,144,203.27
• Awarded $8,150 lighting replacement bid for New Bedford 3rd District Court to J. Roia Electrical
• Approved $30,476 payment to Clifton Larson Allen LLP
• Approved $1,360 proposal for fire alarm control panel at Fall River Registry of Deeds
• Approved $2,500 for Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County operating expenses
• Approved $2,425 for legal services from Attorney Robert Novack
• Approved three plumbing invoices from Elite Plumbing & Mechanical, LLC totaling $7,409.00
• Tabled RGB proposal for Fall River Children’s Museum roof repair pending available funds

Commissioners

The Bristol County Commissioners will hold their first meeting of 2025, beginning with the election of a chairperson as required by state law. They will also swear in registers of deeds for multiple districts, review personnel changes, approve payroll and warrants, consider an invoice from Elite Plumbing for Taunton Superior Court, and discuss court house projects. Additionally, they will take up bonds for Register McDonald and Mello, receive a pension appropriation notice, and review ARPA matters.

• Election of County Commissioner Chairperson (MGL Chapter 34, Section 4)
• Swearing in of Register of Deeds for Northern, Southern, and Fall River districts
• Invoice from Elite Plumbing & Mechanical for Taunton Superior Court
• Bonds for Register McDonald and Register Mello
• Old Business: Taunton and New Bedford courthouse projects

The Commissioners appointed a new chairman and swore in three Registers of Deeds. The board approved several payroll and AP warrants and established a new review process for CLA LLP invoices.

• Named John R. Mitchell as Chairman
• Swore in Barry J. Amaral, Sherrilynn M. Mello, and Bernard J. McDonald III as Registers of Deeds
• Approved personnel changes (CPs) as presented
• Approved payroll and AP warrants including AP Warrant #25074 for $8,155,441.01
• Approved minutes from December 27 and December 30, 2024
• Tabled item #6
• Placed bonds for Register of Deeds Mello and McDonald on file
• Voted to require review of all Clifton Larson Allen LLP invoices from December 1, 2024, before payment (3-0)