8.25.2025 board of health

Fall River Government TV Aug 25, 2025 YouTube Report Issue

The Fall River Board of Health held a virtual meeting on Monday, August 25th, 2025. The meeting was largely dominated by contentious discussions regarding three separate requests for variances to keep chickens in residential areas. The board first approved the minutes from the July 28th, 2025 meeting with a unanimous 3-0 vote. The most extensive debate centered on David Pimento's request to keep 30 chickens at 435 David Street. Neighbors, including Paul Barabby, Donna Howell, and Kimberly, voiced strong opposition, citing concerns about unsanitary conditions, potential predators, and a significant increase in rodent activity since the chickens arrived. Mr. Pimento defended his practices, explaining his waste management system and noting pre-existing rodent issues in the neighborhood. Despite the objections and a letter of opposition from five out of 48 notified abutters, the board approved the variance with a unanimous 3-0 vote, allowing Mr. Pimento to keep 30 chickens. Similar discussions followed for Monica Fernandez's request to keep chickens at 598 South Almond Street and Anna Martins' request for six chickens at 225 High Street. Abutters for Ms. Fernandez's application expressed concerns about the coop's proximity to a swimming pool and potential odors. Both applications were approved by the board, with Ms. Fernandez's approval implied by the transition to the next item after a motion and roll call, and Ms. Martins' approval by a unanimous 3-0 vote. The meeting concluded with the introduction of Crystal Stone as the new Youth Services Coordinator, who shared her extensive background in primary prevention and her plans for the role.

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