Retiring to save town money

NEW FIRE CHIEF - Lifelong resident John Grant Jr. is following in his father’s footsteps. The 49-year-old has taken over as Milton’s fire chief, after serving on the department for 22 years. John Grant Sr. was the town’s fire chief in the 1970s. The younger Grant is a graduate of Mass. Maritime Academy, where he earned a degree in maritime transportation. He worked as a merchant seaman for three years before becoming a firefighter. Maura Ciampa, John Jr.’s sister, is also a member of the Milton Fire Department. The new chief’s priority is to address the department’s staff shortage issue.

TOWN ACCOUNTANT TO LEAVE AFTER ONE YEAR - After recently losing Town Manager John D’Agostino, whose contract was not renewed by selectmen, Mansfield now is losing a second key official. Town Accountant Eric Hart, who took the position less than a year ago, notified officials he will resign midmonth. He plans to return to his position in Rockland. According to Rockland’s Town Manager Allan Chiocca, Hart has continued to work part time for the town. “I’m thrilled he’s coming back,’’ Chiocca said. “These last tax bills would have never gone out without him.’’ Selectmen voted, 4 to 1, for Hart’s return to his former post, pending negotiation of a contract. He is expected to start in Rockland on July 20, Chiocca said.

GOING DEEP INTO HOCKOMOCK SWAMP - Nature enthusiasts are invited to explore the largest freshwater wetland in Massachusetts, courtesy of Mass Audubon, from 8 to 11 a.m. on July 18. The Hockomock Swamp is a wonderful example of an Atlantic White Cedar Swamp, and it supports a rich diversity of bird species and wetland plants, according to the organization. Wayne Petersen, director of Mass Audubon’s “Important Bird Areas’’ will lead the tour. Participants should bring binoculars, field guides, a light long-sleeved shirt, and comfortable walking shoes that most likely will get wet. Preregistration is required by contacting Priscilla Chapman at 508-828-1104 or pchapman@massaudubon.org. The event is part of the Taunton River Watershed Campaign’s Conservation and Nature series.