Union responds to BOS solar project claims

Dear Editor:

I would like to respond to some of the inaccuracies that surfaced at last week’s Board of Selectmen’s meeting — and subsequently appeared in the Canton Citizen — regarding the construction of a solar park on the former town landfill on Pine Street.

First and foremost, the project is absolutely under investigation by the state. A complaint was filed with the state Board of Examiners on February 6, 2012. I have forwarded a copy of the investigation notice to the Citizen with this letter.

Secondly, this is 100 percent a safety issue. In November of 2008, the state Board of Examiners ruled that the installation of solar panels and all associated mounting brackets and supports are to be performed by Massachusetts-licensed electricians. A copy of this decision was provided to the Board of Selectmen in January. This point of view is supported by both union and open shop electrical contractors. The concern for safety was brought to the Canton selectmen on January 19, which is prior to the decision to use an open-shop electrical contractor to perform this work.

Finally, I would like to express my opinion that it is completely irresponsible for the selectmen to hide behind the notion that it is a private job. If there was a bomb factory in Canton, would the board require this company to abide by all state laws and safety regulations? I would hope for the safety of the citizens of Canton they would. Therefore, why the selectmen wouldn’t hire a company that is aware of the laws of Massachusetts and make sure they are enforced is distressing.

Any documentation you may want to view can be found at CantonSolarExposed.com.

Sincerely,

Sean M. Callaghan

Business Agent

Local 103 IBEW

Share This Post

Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=12242