VIDEO: Antique Store Owner Says Seekonk Is Far From Business-Friendly

It was newcomers Robert McLintock and Bill Rice's first Board of Selectmen meeting on Wednesday, but members didn't shy away from heated debate. Minutes after the municipal forum began, business owner Patrick Turner said he found the town isn't business-friendly after stumbling upon road blocks while trying to open his antique business.

"When we started this process, we looked on the Web site; it doesn’t tell you anywhere how to start a business in Seekonk," he said.

Member Bill Rice asked members if discussion pertaining to the antique business could be put on the agenda. McLintock said agendas were adhered to for a reason and the business owner could come to next week's meeting. Furthermore, McLintock said he was in the the office of Anne Rogers, the executive secretary to the Board of Selectmen, while she was on the phone with Turner. He said the conversation turned "abusive."

"I thought it was over the top," McLintock said.

"I wouldn't call it abusive," replied Turner.

Rice said he wanted the board to become more proactive in helping small businesses become established in town.

Members also approved Sharon Hall's employment contract for fiscal 2012. 

Superintendent Bob Lamoureux introduced an Adopt-a-Drain program that would rewards residents with a free trash bags for cleaning off problematic storm water drains.