Town Council Approves Next Step For 128 Volvo Site

WAKEFIELD, Ma - With election day Tuesday and three members of the Town Council on the ballot there was little doubt Monday night's meeting of the Town Council would be quick. The 46-minute meeting at the WCAT offices didn't disappoint.

128 Volvo is closing its doors Tuesday and the board was asked to approve a Class 2 license for the Albrecht group. The license, which was approved by the Town Council 7-0, will allow for used car sales at the site. Albrecht already owns the real estate. Albrecht is in discussions with another dealer and the hope is that a Volvo replacement will take over by late summer. Albrecht will retain the employees of 128 Volvo, a move Town Council chair Peter May applauded.

Members of the Wakefield Human Rights Commission were in attendance to talk about a May 21 event, The State of Hate in Massachusetts. The regional event is free and will be held at the Savings Bank Theater from 7-8:30 p.m.

Speakers will start with a general overview of recent incidents of hate in Massachusetts and how they compare to national trends. There will be an explanation of how to differentiate hate incidents from hate crimes and why this is important. Plus, a review of best practices on how to respond to hate in your communities. The featured speaker is Robert Trestan, Executive Director of the Anti-Defamation League’s Boston office where he oversees the League’s fundraising, program initiatives and leadership development. He is an experienced civil right advocate dedicated to developing community partnerships and initiatives that provide justice, equality and fair treatment. More information can be found on the group's Facebook page.

In addition, Town Administrator Stephen Maio told the council that FEMA has reimbursed the town $154,128.98 for the March 2018 storm ... the council also voted 7-0 to approve a revised version of "A Proclamation of Acceptance and Openness Among All Our Citizens."

The council also reminded residents to get out and vote Tuesday. Galvin will be open for residents to vote from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.