Acushnet Board of Health reorganizes, requires engineer's sign-off on driveway over septic

ACUSHNET — May 5, 2026 — Acushnet Board of Health reorganizes and sends a driveway applicant back for a stamped engineering plan. The board elected David M. Davignon as chairman for the next three years at its May 5 meeting, replacing Robert Medeiros, who stepped down to member; Thomas Fortin was elevated to vice chairman. The board then heard from Chad Walker, owner of 661 Main Street, who wants to build a circular driveway crossing his septic service pipe and running near his leach field. Members said the existing Schedule 40 pipe lacks the depth and durability for vehicle loading and told Walker he must upgrade to Schedule 80 pipe on stone bedding and submit a professionally stamped site plan before any approval will be granted. "I can approve it if it's done right," Davignon said. The board also voted 3-0 to enter executive session on non-union personnel staffing and vacancies, from which it did not return to public session.