Dighton Select Board Approves Two Solar Pilot Agreements Worth Over $2 Million

DIGHTON -- June 25, 2025, Dighton Select Board unanimously approved two solar pilot agreements projected to bring more than $2 million to the town over 20 years. The agreements cover the Araujo Farms installation, operated by MACS Dighton LLC, valued at more than $1.2 million in personal property taxes, and Brook Street Solar, operated by Grasshopper Energy, valued at more than $823,000, both previously authorized at town meeting. Nancy Gulard, who represents Dighton in the Greater Attleborough Taunton Housing Consortium, presented the agreements and noted each carries a $5,000 developer reimbursement clause. Highway Superintendent Tom Ferry outlined a July 21 through August 30 preservation treatment for four streets, Horton, Oak, Maple, and Maple Swamp, deferred from last year due to Main Street reconstruction funding needs. Robert Perry of the Dighton Economic Development Committee presented a three-step framework for a development impact fee program, recommending the town fund a home rule petition at the fall Special Town Meeting, with board members expressing interest in a joint session with the Planning Board to advance the idea. Town Administrator Ralph Tatalo reported a renegotiated solid waste disposal agreement with ReWorld is expected to save approximately $30,000 in Fiscal Year 2026, and confirmed that detailed budget-scenario presentations, including potential service and personnel cuts tied to a planned debt exclusion ballot question, will begin at summer Select Board meetings.