Seekonk News Notes – October 2017

Town Officials Want New Fire Station in South Seekonk
Fire Chief Michael Healy and the board of selectmen discussed the need for a new fire station in the south end of town, according to an article in the Sun Chronicle. The facility is expected to cost approximately $2.2 million. A new fire engine and rescue vehicle would be needed and eight new firefighters would have to be hired. Healy said the former school administration building on School Street could be a possible location. A new station would improve response times in emergencies, reduce the need for mutual aid assistance, and offer the town better protection, say officials.

Selectmen Recognize Seekonk Police Officers
The board of selectmen at a recent meeting recognized the following officers: Det. Sgt. David Enos, Lt. David Dyson, Sgt. Gregory Casper and Patrolman Benjamin Mello. They were commended for their actions in November 2015 when police were dispatched to a call about a suicidal man. Sgt. Enos also received the Seekonk police department board of selectmen medal for his actions.

Benny’s Will Close By End of Year
Benny’s announced it will close all of its stores by the end of the year. The reason for the closure is the changing retail environment with more customers choosing to make purchases online. Benny’s has 31 stores throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. Benny’s has been in business for 93 years. The chain is known for offering a diverse selection of items, from auto products to household items to bikes and toys.

Howitzer to Remain at Veterans Memorial Park for Now
The howitzer located near the Veteran’s Memorial will remain where it is for now, according to an article in the Sun Chronicle. Michael Durkey, chairman of the Library Board of Trustees, told selectmen recently that he is going to get feedback from the public before deciding what to do about the gun. There has been some controversy in town about the howitzer since it was placed there at the end of July. The 155 mm howitzer, which dates back to the 1920’s, is on permanent loan from the Massachusetts National Guard. Some residents are not comfortable with the gun being there and others feel it belongs there because it is a part of military history. It is not clear how the board of trustees plans to solicit public feedback.

Honey Dew Donuts in North Seekonk Robbed
There was a reported armed robbery at the Honey Dew donuts at Central Avenue near Bakers Corners on Wednesday, Sept. 26, according to a news release from the Seekonk Police Dept. It was reported that a male suspect entered the business, brandished a firearm and demanded cash. He fled with an undisclosed amount of money westbound on Central Avenue toward Pawtucket. The suspect is described as a white male, possibly in his early to mid 20’s, wearing a white t-shift, blue jeans, Boston Red Sox baseball hat and sunglasses. The suspect also has multiple tattoos (sleeved) on both arms and a tattoo on the left side of his neck. The Seekonk Police Detective Division is conducting the investigation. If you have any information related to the identity of the suspect contact the Seekonk Police at 508-336-8123 or email tips@seekonkpd.com

Viera Announces He Will Seek Re-election to Board of Selectmen
Selectman David Viera announced he will be seeking re-election to the board next April, according to an article in the Sun Chronicle. Viera reportedly made the announcement early because people had been asking him his future plans. Viera, a former Seekonk fire chief and longtime chairman of the Memorial Day parade committee, wants to continue to work for the town and assist in the completion of the town’s new animal shelter as well as a new fire station on the south end.

Seekonk Police K-9 Dog Retires
The Seekonk Police Department’s K-9, Kilo, has retired, according to a Sun Chronicle article. He worked for the department for three years, as Patrolman Adam Laprade’s partner. Kilo will still live with Laprade. Kilo participated in many drug seizures over the years. The department radioed Kilo’s last call and held a brief ceremony in front of the police station. Officers from several other area departments attended the ceremony.