PJK Press Release

PRESS RELEASE

STATEMENT FROM THE ACUSHNET BOARD OF SELECTMEN REGARDING QUARRY OPERATIONS AT 72 SOUTH MAIN STREET

DATE: September 24, 2020

            The Town of Acushnet Board of Selectmen, Board of Health, and Soil Board announced today that the Town and P.J. Keating have come to a temporary agreement regarding quarry operations at 72 South Main Street. The Acushnet Board of Health, Conservation Commission, and Soil Conservation Board recently issued health and environmental enforcement orders aimed at addressing serious concerns raised by Town residents and corroborated by Town officials. Quarry operations have also been effected by ongoing litigation between the parties in the Bristol County Superior Court.

            After extensive review of P.J. Keating’s operating procedures, and cooperative and productive conversations between the parties, the Town has agreed to temporarily lift the enforcement orders so that P.J. Keating may continue operations at the property, in recognition of and in exchange for commitments made by P.J. Keating.

            Specifically, P.J. Keating has agreed to implement or improve on-site security, dust and erosion controls, environmentally responsible street sweeping practices, and waste disposal procedures. Further, P.J. Keating has agreed to cease all quarry operations on Sundays, and limit the majority of its quarry operations between the hours of 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. This agreement has been endorsed by the Bristol County Superior Court.

            The Board of Selectmen and P.J. Keating Company are optimistic that future conversations between municipal officials, Town residents, and P.J. Keating leadership will result in an ultimate solution that not only supports local businesses and their employees, but that will also protect the health, safety, and well-being of the general public.