VIDEO: Selectmen Appoint New Planning Board Member, Question Board of Health

During a joint meeting on Wednesday between the Seekonk Board of Selectmen and the Seekonk Planning Board, members appointed Russell Horsman to the seat vacated by former member Bill Rice.

Attorney Roger Ross and resident Tina Tinley also were interviewed for the position. A former Florida business owner, Tinley said she brought managerial and construction experience to the table; Ross said his familiarity with legalese would be an asset.

The boards ultimately voted in Horsman in an 8-2 vote. Selectmen Francis Cavaco and planning board member Sandra Foulkes cast their ballot to Ross, noting the board could use more diversity.

But the meeting's dialogue became heated after member Bob McLintock said he's been hearing numerous complaints against the Seekonk Board of Health (BOH) from residents and business owners.

Resident Ralph Travers then brought pictures of a septic system that has been constructed near his property line. Sanitarian Beth Hallal said septic system placement does not fall within the BOH purview.

Member John Whalen then said the BOH sanitarian and chairman were "blindsided" by the accusations and would be asked to come back at a later date to answer questions.

Department of Public Works Superintendent Bob Lamoureaux also asked the board to approve an employee hire. Board member Bob McLintock said the motion could not be addressed because the matter wasn't on the agenda.

"It's not that I'm against this, it's just not on the agenda," said McLintock.

Member Bill Rice asked the superintendent if a delay in hiring would affect Department of Public Works operations.

"Well, I'm down one [employee]," he said, explaining a full staff is needed to run day to day operations.

Board of Selectmen also approved warrant articles that residents will get a chance to vote for during the next town meeting.