Somerset Scorecard: Weekly update on politics, community events, and all things Somerset

This is a weekly update on all things Somerset, shared each Wednesday. If you have news that is related to Somerset, inbox us at info@fallriverreporter.com. 

Don’t Dock It ‘Till You Try It

Town Administrator Mark Ullucci says that docks that may be owned by the seemingly defunct Spirt of Somerset organization will be removed from town property. The docks, which were used for the annual event when the Block Island Ferry offered rides up and down the Taunton River for event goers, have been wrongfully stored on town property despite not being owned by the town. The event was cancelled this year after event owner David Berube asked the town to help cover costs for the event and the town Advisory and Finance Committee did not approve the funding. Ullucci says that the docks will be removed, and any costs associated with their removal will be assessed.

Good Brief!

Former Board of Selectman Holly McNamara is being sued in Bristol County Superior Court by local attorney and former Somerset Zoning Board of Appeals member Joseph P. Fingliss for defamation. Court documents filed by Fingliss allege that McNamara stated in a podcast that he was a “twice disbarred attorney”, causing him harm. Fingliss has never been disbarred. Fingliss is representing himself in the matter and McNamara has enlisted Attorney Patrick Driscoll of the Boston law firm Boyle Shaughnessy.

I Can Buy Myself Flowers

Shawomet Gardens, the 240-unit apartment complex located in the center of town, has sold for a whopping $35 million dollars. SMG Real Estate purchased the 12-acre property, which closed on October 8th. No word on whether or not this will impact rental rates for existing or incoming renters. The property had been owned by the same family for decades.

Let’s Give Them Something To Talk About…..Or Not

It looks like a debate between Democratic incumbent Patricia Haddad and Republican newcomer Justin Thurber isn’t going to happen. Haddad released a video on her campaign Facebook page this week saying that the invite to debate by the Somerset Republican Town Committee was the only invite she received, debunking Thurber’s claim that he asked her to debate. Thurber says he is ready to debate and Haddad asks voters to instead look at her record. With less than 20 days to go until the election day and no scheduled debate in sight, it looks like voters won’t get a chance to hear the candidates on a stage anytime soon.

Some Are Set

Congratulations to Somerset and Somerset Berkely Superintendent Jeffrey Schoonover on his whopping 6.5% salary increase.

Show Us What You Got!

Looking for something fun to do with the family this weekend? Head over to Bristol Aggie for their annual Fall Show. The event showcases the work by students in each program. Campus events include kids tree climbing, pumpkin painting, cow chip bingo, live music and food. Many Somerset students attend Aggie so go show them your support. The campus is amazing! The event takes place this Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Visit their website to learn more.

That’s all for this week, townies. See you soon.