Raynham's Public Safety Facility Project Advances with State Discussions

Conservation Commission hearing and land trades with state agencies mark progress toward January bid target

RAYNHAM - April 15 - Raynham's public safety facility project continues to move forward with several key developments on the horizon, including a Conservation Commission hearing and upcoming discussions with state agencies about necessary land trades.

Town Administrator Gregory Barnes provided an update on the project during the Board of Selectmen meeting, highlighting the steady progress being made toward putting the project out to bid.

"There will be a hearing tomorrow night involving the Conservation Commission at 5:30," Barnes told the board. "The state will be coming down to talk about the land trades that are in part involve the Public Safety Building."

The land trade discussions will involve representatives from the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAM) and the Department of Agriculture, who are scheduled to visit Raynham on Earth Day next week.

Barnes emphasized that officials are working diligently toward a timeline that would allow the project to go out to bid by early next year.

"We're looking at January as being the date when hopefully we will have bid results and be able to do something to move forward," he said.

The town administrator acknowledged the complexity of the project, noting, "There's a tremendous amount of work involved in all of this, a lot of moving parts, but we are moving forward."

The public safety facility represents a significant infrastructure investment for Raynham, designed to enhance the town's emergency response capabilities.

In other public safety news, Fire Chief Bryan LaCivita reported that the department has welcomed a new hire, Patrick Morton, who has begun his two-week orientation. Morton, described as being "in his 30s," grew up in Raynham.

"We're happy to have him. It was kind of a long process, but he is on his own way to his career," LaCivita said.

The department is also preparing to welcome another new firefighter, Caden Riley from Mansfield, who is scheduled to start in August.

"Outstanding kid. He's going to be a star someday," the chief said of Riley.

When asked by a board member if these hires would bring the department to full staffing levels, LaCivita confirmed they would, adding, "There's something in the works, I believe so. But that's for another day."

The fire department responded to 68 fire incidents and 287 ambulance calls last month, with LaCivita noting they are "up 20 runs from last year." The department has handled 300 runs this year compared to 280 during the same period last year.

In other town business, the Board of Selectmen unanimously voted to dedicate this year's annual town report to Reverend James Tilbe, described as "one of the most respected members of the community."

Selectman Pat Riley, who nominated Tilbe, highlighted his extensive service to Raynham, including his roles as a longtime call firefighter, Fire Department chaplain, and elected member of the Cemetery Commission.

"He's a very concerned and dedicated citizen, and I think he would be a worthy candidate for that honor," Riley said.

Selectman Joseph Pacheco added that Tilbe had also served as a library trustee for over a decade.

"He's synonymous with Raynham and obviously with the Stone Church and certainly a deserving recognition," Pacheco said.

The board also approved the town administrator's recommendation for Citizen of the Year, though the recipient's name will be kept private until the annual town meeting on May 19 at 7:00 p.m. at Raynham Middle School.

Additionally, Barnes announced that the town has received a $2,943.41 grant from the Department of Fire Services for fire safety equipment.

"Not a huge number, but every little bit counts," Barnes said.

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Watch the complete meeting courtesy of the Raynham Channel.