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Assessor

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1. Is property information online?

Real estate assessment information may be found by visiting the Property Information System

2. Why is my deceased husband’s name still on my real estate tax bill?

Any changes in ownership must be made via the Plymouth County Registry of Deeds.

3. Why is my assessment higher than the current market?

The current assessment is based on sales from two years prior.

4. If I don’t agree with my property assessment, what can I do?

A property owner can file an “Over-valuation Application” with the Board of Assessors within 30 days of the issue date of their first actual billing in January. The Board will have 90 days to review the assessment.

5. If I purchased a property after January 1, why is the previous owner’s name still on the real estate tax bill?

Real Estate Tax bills must legally go to the assessed owner as of January 1, “care of” the subsequent owner. However the property record card will reflect the current owner.

6. The valuation on my excise bill is too high. It is not what I paid for the vehicle.

The valuation is based upon the Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for that year vehicle.

7. The value on my excise bill is the same as last year’s, why didn’t it go down?

The percentage of valuation decreases each year until it reaches 10% of the MSRP. It will then remain at this valuation.

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Building

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1. When do I need a building permit?

A building permit is required to construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, remove, or demolish a building or equipment regulated by the building code. A permit is required for the installation of a swimming pool, a wood or pellet stove, and accessory buildings (sheds).

2. Do I need a building permit for a swimming pool?

Yes, an in-ground or above-ground pool which holds 24 inches of water or greater requires a building permit.

3. Where do I get an application for a building permit?

A permit application for both new construction and additions/alterations (which include sheds, gazebos and decks) is available online under the Documents section of the Building Department page or you can visit the Building Department on the lower level of Town Hall.

4. Do I need a permit for a fence?

A permit is not required for a fence less than 8 feet in height.

5. Is a permit required for a shed?

A detached accessory building requires a permit, if the shed is more than 120 square feet, a foundation is required. A shed must be at least 10 feet from the house and at least 10 feet from the property line.

6. Is a permit required for a wood stove?

A permit is required for the installation of solid fuel appliances including wood and pellet stoves as well as inserts for existing fireplaces.

7. What is carbon monoxide?

Refer to Carbon Monoxide

8. Where can I get a copy of the Town of Whitman Zoning Map?

Refer to Whitman Zoning Map

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Children's Programming at the Library

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1. Do I need to sign up for programs?

It varies. I try to make as many programs as possible drop-in so that you don’t have to worry about committing to a time and place. However, some programs require that we limit the number. Other times I ask you to sign up so I can plan for how many materials I need to buy. Each program flyer states whether registration is necessary.

2. My child wants to attend a programs that is designed for younger/older children. Can he/she attend?

Older children are always welcome to attend programs designed for younger children and you don’t need to ask me. Younger children attending older programs varies based on the age of the child, the nature of the program and the age difference between child and program. Please contact me, Miss Nicole at 78-447-7613 if you wish to bring a younger child to a program.

3. My child won’t sit still through storytime. What do I do?

Don’t worry – all children are different. There are songs between every book for the toddlers to help get their wiggles out, but it’s not enough for all children. As long as they aren’t screaming loudly and distracting the other children from storytime, I don’t mind a wiggly child.

Bring your child anyways – model the behavior you want them to have and when they’ve truly had enough, take them out. Hopefully they’ll last a little longer each week!

4. Why should I bring a baby to storytime?

Storytime is great for babies! Not only do babies begin to learn the idea of books, you as a parent will learn more rhymes, songs and games to play with them. Music helps babies brains develop. Items like scarves help babies visual tracking and improve their eyesight. If you ever have a question about why we do an activity in storytime, ask Miss Nicole.

Plus, storytime is a great way to meet other parents with children the same age, get out of the house and socialize!

5. I have a great idea for a program – will you do it?

I’m always happy to hear suggestions for future ideas, but I won’t be able to follow through with all ideas.

6. How are these programs funded?

All of our programs are funded by the Friends of the Whitman Public Library (excepting programs funded with grants). The Friends of the Whitman Public Library are a non-profit group. They are always looking for help and for more members – check them out and consider joining today!

7. Who do I contact if I have further questions?

If your question isn’t answered here, ask the Youth Services Librarian, Nicole Monk by sending an email at nmonk@ocln.org or calling 781-447-7613.

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Collector / Treasurer

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1. I received my motor vehicle excise bill, however I no longer have the vehicle. Do I have to pay the excise bill?

Yes, the excise bill is due and payable within 30 days from the date of issue. If you qualify for an abatement please contact the Assessor’s Office at 781- 618-9760 for the abatement application and guidelines concerning the abatement process.

2. I no longer own my own business, however I received a personal property bill. Am I responsible for paying this bill?

Personal Property bills are issued for a fiscal year to the owner of record as of January 1 of the previous year. A Discontinuance of Business Certificate should be filed with the Clerk’s Office whenever a business is closed or sold. Please contact the Assessor’s Office at 781-618-9760 if you have any questions concerning a personal property bill for a business which has been closed or sold.

3. I received my real estate bill and the previous owner’s name still appears on the bill. When will the previous owner’s name be removed?

When a property is sold the Assessor’s Office receives information from the Registry of Deeds with the new owner’s information. The legal owner’s file is then updated by the Assessor’s Office and the previous owner’s name is removed. We usually see many of these changes with the first billing of a new fiscal year or when the Actual Real Estate Bills are issued January 1 each year. Please contact the Assessor’s Office at 781-618-9760 regarding any questions concerning the legal owners of a property.

4. When a property is sold the Assessor’s Office receives information from the Registry of Deeds with the new owner’s information. The legal owner’s file is then updated by the Assessor’s Office and the

If you received a letter from the Registry of Motor Vehicles concerning outstanding excise bills you will need to contact John Y. Brady, Deputy Collector, Inc. at 781-545-5125 to obtain the current amount due.

5. I received my Actual Real Estate Bill and the assessed value of my property seems to be much higher than it is worth in the current market. How do I dispute the assessment?

The assessed value listed on your Actual Real Estate Bill each year is calculated as of January 1 of the previous year. Please contact the Assessor’s Office regarding any questions concerning the value of your property at 781-618-9760.

6. I have private trash collection, how do I file for an abatement?

Trash abatements are processed by the Department of Public Works. Please contact the Department of Public Works at 781-447-7630 regarding the trash abatement process.

7. Do you accept credit card payments in the Collector’s Office?

The only credit card accepted in the Collector’s Office is Discover. However, if you are making a payment on or before the due date for a current bill online the UniBank website accepts Mastercard or Discover. The credit card processor does charge a fee for credit card payments. Please contact the Collector’s Office for the Discover Card fees structure for payments made in the Collector’s Office. The UniBank website informs you of the online fee before your payment is finalized. The fees are based on the amount being charged. There are no fees for making a payment online from your checking account. To make a payment visit the Online Payments.

8. I tried to pay my bill online after the due date, however I was unable to do so, how do I pay online after the original due date?

Payments are only able to be paid online on or before the due date. The payment file is removed from the website the day after the due date. This is necessary because interest begins to accrue on a daily basis from the due date for all unpaid bills. Please contact the Collector’s Office at 781-618-9720 for a current amount due if making a payment after the due date.

9. What is the address and telephone number for the deputy collector?

John Y. Brady
Deputy Collector, Inc.

91 First Parish Road
Scituate, MA 02066

Hours
Monday - Friday
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

94 Washington Street
Weymouth, MA 02188

Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Ph: 781-545-5125

10. How much does Whitman charge for a Municipal Lien Certificate?

The fee for a Municipal Lien Certificate is $50. Please include the address of the property as well as the Map Block and Lot for the property. Please also include a prepaid stamped envelope with your request. Municipal Lien Certificates are processed within 10 days of receiving the request.

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Conservation

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1. What if I want to do some work in a wetland or buffer zone area?

You need to determine if the proposed project is in wetlands or in a buffer zone (within 100 feet of wetlands), preferably by having the area surveyed and the wetlands areas identified. The project needs to be submitted to the Conservation Commission, either with a Request for Determination of Applicability or a Notice of Intent.

2. What is a Request for Determination of Applicability?

This is a form obtainable from the Department of Environmental Protection website which lists the proposed work and asks the Commission to determine if the Wetlands Protection Act is applicable. The Commission holds a site inspection and a public hearing, then makes a decision, issuing a Determination of Applicability form to the applicant. If the answer is negative, then the project may go ahead without further involvement by the Commission. If the decision (Determination of Applicability) is positive, then a further filing may be needed (A Notice of Intent to do Work).

Request for Determination of Applicability

3. How do I go about filing a Notice of Intent (NOI)?

The Notice of Intent application is available on the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) website or from the engineer who may be preparing your plans and helping you file the request. Two copies must be submitted to the Commission, and one copy sent to the DEP. The DEP will issue a file number, and the Commission will schedule a public hearing on the project. The website also has a detailed list of instructions to help complete the form.

Notice of Intent

4. What happens at the public hearing?

Public hearings are required for Request for Determination of Applicability or Notice of Intent filings with the commission. The hearing needs to be advertised in the newspaper and all abutters to the project notified. The Commission members make a site inspection to familiarize themselves with the project before the hearing. The hearing allows a presentation by the applicant or the applicant’s representative; Commission members then ask questions to gather further information. Finally, any members of the public present may ask questions or make pertinent comments. Once the information is obtained, the Commission Chairman will close the hearing.

5. What happens after the public hearing?

The Commission has 21 days within which to issue a decision after the hearing is closed. Ordinarily the decision is made the night of the hearing, or within a week of the closing of the hearing. The Commission members then vote on issuing the Determination of Applicability or Notice of Intent. The secretary then prepares all the forms, notarizes them and sends the originals to the applicant, with copies to the DEP for its files. After a 10 day appeal period is fulfilled, a positive Determination or Order of Conditions allows the applicant to begin his/her project.

6. What if I just have a question about a possible wetlands issue?

There is a 15 minute public forum segment at the beginning of each Commission meeting. Members of the public are encouraged to attend and ask such questions at that time.

7. What if I can’t get to the town hall to ask my question or get information on a project?

Members of the public may call Commission members with requests for information or to ask for site inspections.

8. I’m interested in serving on the Conservation Commission-what do I do?

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Commission should contact a current member, come to a meeting to discuss the responsibilities and duties of the Commission, and if still interested in serving, send a letter of interest to the Board of Selectmen. The Board of Selectmen make appointments to the Commission. Members serve three year terms and may be reappointed. Commission members are expected to attend meetings twice a month, go to on-site inspections as needed, and become familiar with the wetlands regulations governing the Commission’s activities.

9. How do Conservation Commission members keep up with new regulations and changes?

Commission members are members of Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) and are able to attend the annual meetings to learn about new regulations and techniques supported by the DEP. There are also many workshops for Commissioners sponsored by the DEP for Commissioners, developers, engineers and other interested parties. The entire Wetlands Protection Act is available on the DEP website. It has regularly updated forms available.

Department of Environmental Protection

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Council on Aging

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1. Do I need to join in order to use services at the Senior Center?

No. We are a town department and there is no need to join to participate. Due to space constraints it is usually necessary to sign up in advance.

2. How old do I have to be to be considered a Senior Citizen?

The age for becoming a senior is 60, though if we have space in any program and you are interested and younger, you would be welcome.

3. Is there a cost for participation?

It all depends on what you are signing up for. Please call the Senior Center at 781-447-7619 for details.

4. My parents live in Whitman and I live out of town. Can I work with someone to get services into their home?

We work closely with many out of town / state families in order to help with the needs of their parents.

5. Can I come to the Senior Center any day for lunch?

We serve lunch Monday through Friday and anyone is welcome. Because we need to order food in advance, we ask that you notify us a week before you plan to join us. If that is not possible, we need minimum of two days notice.

6. Where can I apply for Senior Housing?

Applications can be obtained from the Whitman Housing Authority at the Harvard Court Senior Housing complex on Harvard Street or by calling them at 781-447-7633.

7. Is there any help for me with my real estate property taxes?

There are a number of qualifying abatements. Please contact the Assessor’s Office for more information at 781-618-0760. We also have a detailed list of available abatements here at the Senior Center.

8. I am having trouble with my health insurance. Is there any help available to me?

Yes. We have a member of our staff that is SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) certified and is available by appointment to help with your health insurance needs.

9. How will I know what activities are going on at the Senior Center?

We publish a monthly Newsletter that includes our current Activities Calendar and lunch menu, as well as new and pertinent information for the Seniors of our community. The Newsletter is mailed to every Senior in town. Make sure you are in our mailing database.

10. I am unable to leave my home, but I need some help. Can someone come to my house?

Home Care Services are available through Old Colony Elderly Services. Additionally, if a home visit is necessary we have a staff member who would gladly come to your home and help fill out any necessary applications.

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General

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1. How do I contact a Town department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Police Department

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1. Is there a parking ban during the Winter?

Article XIV - Use of Public Ways; Section 11 of The Town of Whitman By-Laws states: Between the hours of 11:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. no person shall place, or cause to be placed, any vehicle which shall interfere with the removing or plowing of snow, or the removing of ice in any way of the town. The Board of Public Works, or those acting under their orders in the lawful performance of their duties, for the purpose of removing or plowing snow, or removing ice, from any way, is hereby authorized and empowered to remove, or cause to be removed, to some convenient place, including in such term a public garage, any vehicle interfering with such work, and the owner of such vehicle shall be liable for the cost of such removal, and the storage charges, if any resulting therefrom.

In addition, The Board of Selectmen have the authority to declare a local state of emergency at any time they deem appropriate. This depending on what the state of emergency was declared for could trigger a parking ban. The parking ban hours would be determined by the Board of Selectmen and not necessarily limited to the hours of 11:00 P.M. to 6:00 A.M. The Board of Selectmen also reserve the right to restrict parking as they deem necessary.

2. Is it illegal to push/shovel snow or ice into the roadway?

Yes, Ch. 90 Sec. 7B, Pushing/shoveling snow or ice into the roadway. This violation is a $150.00 civil fine. Additionally, this action could cause an accident and expose the offender to possible civil litigation from those that are injured.

3. My Vehicle was towed by the Whitman Police Department. What do I need to do to pick up my car?

• Must have a release paper from the Whitman Police Department.
  
• Have the full balance of service bill, usually cash only.
  
• Have proof of ownership, identification (i.e. drivers license).

4. My Vehicle was towed by the Whitman Police Department. How can I contact the tow company?

Our Towing Companies:

• Auto Tec
  1125 Bedford St.
  Whitman, MA 02382
  
  

  Ph: 781-447-2403



• Mikes Auto
  654 Washington St.
  Whitman, MA 02382
  
  

  Ph: 781-447-5028



• Distinctive Auto Body
  203 Bedford St.
  Whitman, MA 02382
  
  

  Ph: 781-447-0721

5. I was involved in a motor vehicle accident, what do I have to do?

You must report an accident in which someone is killed, hurt, or if there are damages in excess of $1,000 to a car or other property. A written accident report must be sent to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles and to the Police Department in the city or town where the accident happened within five days of the accident. Accident report forms are available at all police stations or download below. We make copies of available police reports for a fee of $5.

Motor Vehicle Accident Form

6. How can I get a firearms permit?

You can download an application below. Fill out the application and make an appointment with Sgt. Harry Bates, he will go over the application with you. Contact Sgt. Bates by calling 781-447-1212 between the hours of 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Application for License to Carry Firearms

7. How can I get a copy of my criminal record for my employer?

If you need a copy of your criminal record for the purpose of employment, you can pick-up a form in the lobby of the police station.

Mail it to:
Criminal History Systems Board
Attn: Records Unit
200 Arlington St., Ste. 2200
Chelsea, MA 02150

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Public Works

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1. How do I dispose of my Christmas tree?

Residents may put their Christmas Tree's out at the Curb During the month of January and Public Works crew will remove them, All Tree's must be free of any decorations or plastic.

2. How do I dispose of my old TV.

Residents can bring their old TV's to the DPW office at 100 Essex St. and for a $15.00 to $ 25.00 fee will have it disposed of properly through a Recyling Company.

3. How do I dispose of large trash items such as washing machines ,couches etc?

Residents who currently participate in Town trash pickup should call the DPW Office at 781-447-7630.

4. Where can I dispose of my leaves and grass clippings?

The DPW operates a Compost pile at the Public Works yard on Essext St. which is available to residents M-F 7am - 3pm year round and is also available on Saturdays for 10 weeks each spring and Fall. A $2.00 Sticker which is good for 2 years is required, these can be purchased at the Public Works Office at 100 Essex St.

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Recreation

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1. What are the primary duties of Recreation?

Whitman Recreation offers a number of family friendly activities and events throughout the year. The town pool is managed through Recreation. Summer Park Programs, July 4th Road Race and Family Field Day, and a variety of assorted smaller events are provided either free or at a discount for residents.

2. What about youth sports?

Each youth sports league is run independently. A listing of the most recent contacts for each of the Whitman Affiliated Sports Leagues may be downloaded or mailed to you. Keep in mind, all youth sports affiliated with the Town of Whitman are run by volunteers. Ask how you can help with the sport you are interested in.

3. What about the fields?

The athletic fields, including those on school property, are scheduled in blocks through Whitman Recreation primarily to the leagues that use them. Use of all athletic fields by any team is by permit only. A field use request form may be downloaded or mailed to you.

4. Who maintains the fields?

General maintenance of the athletic fields is done by our own Department of Public Works and/or the School Department but a great deal of additional maintenance, minor upgrades, marking, and upkeep for use is done by the leagues that use the fields.

5. Who can use the town pool and what services are offered at the pool?

Whitman residents only, are offered use of the town pool. Swim lessons for students age four and up, public swim times daily, and after-hours pool rentals are available.

6. When is the town pool open?

Town Pool is scheduled to be open for nine weeks, beginning Saturday, June 20, 2016 You can refer to the Recreation Department page on this town website for detailed open swim schedule. Please be advised the schedule is subject to change.

7. What is the Danielson Buddy Swim?

The Danielson Buddy Swim is held weekdays from 3 - 4:30 p.m. It was named after Mr. Herbert G. Danielson, who was one of the original pool directors and lifeguards. Mr. Danielson was a driving force in establishing the safe pool practices we use today. The Danielson Buddy Swim is the only time of the day that teens are allowed to enter the pool, with a buddy and without an adult to accompany them, as long as they follow the pool rules. Families are welcome during these hours as well.

8. How much does is cost to use the town pool?

There are two options for residents who wish to use the town pool. The first is to purchase a Family Pool Pass. The fee is $90 for the entire family, for the entire season. This will allow access to all public swim times. The second option is to pay $5 per person per day at the gate. Both options will require completion of the pool pass application for each family. All fees are subject to change without notice.

9. What do you offer for swim lessons?

Swim lessons are taught by Certified Water Safety Instructors to children from age 4-years-old to 17-years-old. A variety of times and session dates are available but space is limited. The cost is $89 per child, with a family maximum of $240. All fees are subject to change without notice.

10. What is Swim Team?

Swim Team is a coached session for children aged 8-years-old to 17-years-old. Training is held Monday - Friday for six weeks and the team competes with other local swim clubs and teams during the season. Some meets are held here in Whitman and others are held at our competitors locations. Many skill levels are represented although all team members must be able to swim the length of the pool to join. The cost for this program is $100 per child. All fees are subject to change without notice.

11. What is a pool pass application?

This form verifies your residency and lists family members who will or may be, using the pool. Please read this form carefully, complete it and return it to Whitman Recreation and you will be issued a numbered tag. One series of numbers will represent a purchased Family Pool Pass and another series of numbers will represent the pay at the gate option.

12. How can I book an after-hours pool party?

Call or email the Recreation Office and schedule a date and time with the director. Residents can rent the pool for a fee of $150 for a two hour period. This includes two certified lifeguard, use of the bath house, and lighting as necessary and other items.

13. What are some of the pool rules?

• No diapers
  
• No diving
  
• No eating or drinking inside the pool gate
  
• No glass containers
  
• No personal flotation devices that are not US Coast Guard approved – this means, no arm floaties or swim rings that small children often wear. They can slip off and create a dangerous situation. Children may wear flotation suits as long as the floats are built into the bathing suit.
  
• No pets
  
• No running, pushing, or horseplay
  
• No smoking

Please review the complete Pool Rules listing at the pool gate.

14. What is the Park Program?

This is a program held for five weeks during the summer that serves children who have completed at least 1st grade and are age 6-years-old to 12-years-old. The program is held in the park Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. All activities are conducted outdoors so the program is contingent upon good weather. Children enjoy games of all kinds, arts and crafts, and pool time daily. The cost for the program is $99 per child per week. Special events are offered weekly with no additional charge. There are no refunds given for poor weather cancellations. Space in this program is limited and no advance registrations are accepted. All fees are subject to change without notice.

15. What other events are commonly held or run by Whitman Recreation?

Whitman Recreation enjoys working with other town departments, committees, and commissions. At least one of the free concerts at the bandstand held during July and August is sponsored by recreation. Group excursions such as Whitman Night at the Rox may be offered or roller skating parties at Carousel Family Fun Center where skaters may get a reduced entry rate for bringing a canned good to benefit the Whitman Food Pantry. The possibilities are endless and we welcome your ideas.

16. How does the Recreation Commission work?

The Recreation Commission is an appointed volunteer board that meets monthly to discuss programs, plans, ideas, and budgets. The board oversees the recreation director, and the director oversees the various staff that service the programs offered. Meetings are posted at the Town Hall and all are welcome to come and share ideas and suggestions.

17. How and when do I apply to work for Whitman Recreation?

You may download an employment application and return it to Whitman Recreation. The Town of Whitman is an equal opportunity employer. All seasonal staff positions are posted in the local newspaper, are offered as part-time temporary positions, and do not offer benefits. Applications for seasonal staff positions are generally accepted in late April until early May for the upcoming season.

18. How do I sign up for recreational activities?

Online through the Recreation Department page, or in person at the Recreation Office Wednesday and Thursdays 11am- 4pm and Sundays 11am- 3pm Please note and take advantage of early online registration specials (4/1 to-5/1) for the summer park program, pool passes, and swim lessons and swim team!! Sign-Up Now

19. How do I pay for recreational activities?

Online through the town website. Or at the Recreation Office Pay Now

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Town Clerk

Show All Answers

1. How do I register to vote?

You must be 18 years old and a U.S. citizen. You can register in person, by mail or at the Registry of Motor Vehicles. You will receive verification by mail after registering. The annual census is mailed every January 1, if you do not answer it your voting status will be marked inactive and you will not be listed on the active voting list. If you move within town or change your name, you must re-register with the new information. A mail-in voter registration form will be sent to you if requested. You must register to vote at least 20 days prior to any election. Please visit the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s election website for more voting information or call toll free 1-800-462-VOTE.

Secretary of the Commonwealth

2. Where and When is the annual town meeting and election?

The annual town meeting is held on the first Monday in May. The annual town election is held on the third Saturday in May. All meetings and elections are held at the Town Hall.

3. Where do I vote?

All Whitman voters cast their ballots at the Town Hall, 54 South Avenue, Whitman, Massachusetts, 02382.

4. How do I obtain a birth, marriage, or death certificate?

Vital records are on file in the community where the event occurred and also in the community where residency was listed on the day of the event. Whitman’s vital records are from 1875 to the present time. Certified long form copies are $5 each. They can be requested over the counter or by mailing a $5 check made out to the Town of Whitman, please enclose a self addressed stamped envelope to:

Town Clerk
P.O. Box 426
Whitman, MA 02382

You can now order birth, death, and marriage certificates online by visiting the Online Payments Center.

5. How do I license my dog?

The licensing period is July 1 - June 30 each year. A proof of rabies certificate must be presented and proof of neuter or spay must be shown. The cost of licensing is:

• Female / Male - $8
  
• Spay / Neuter - $5
  
• Senior rate (over 70) is free

A late fee of $25 is imposed on any license issued after August 31. A rabies clinic is held every year, call the Board of Health for date at 781-618-9755.

6. How do I apply for a marriage license?

Both parties must apply together. There is a three day waiting period after you file your intention. The cost to file is $30. You cannot apply more than 60 days prior to the marriage.

7. How do I get a business certificate (DBA)?

Business certificates are $40 for four years. You and any co-owners must appear in person in the office to sign the business certificate. If any changes occur within the four years, or you discontinue the business, you and any co-owners must come in and file the change for a fee of $10.

8. How do I get a fishing or sporting license?

For more information or to obtain a fishing or sporting license please visit the
Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game.

9. How can I get help with food, rent, or fuel assistance?

The Whitman Food Pantry number is 781-447-8560. Rent, utilities, and fuel assistance is handled through the Council on Aging at 781-447-7619.

10. I have a large item for trash. Who should I call?

Call Delprete & Sons Co. at 1-800-791-4999 to schedule a pick-up.

11. How can I find out what sports leagues and recreational activities are in Whitman?

Call the Recreation Department at 781-618-9758.

12. I have a problem with a landlord / tenant. Who should I call?

Contact the Office of the Attorney General at 617-727-2200 or visit the website.

Attorney General's Guide to Landlord/Tenant Rights

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Veterans Services

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1. Am I eligible?

You may be eligible for Veterans Services if you are a veteran or a dependent of a veteran who served during wartime, you have few resources and little income, and you need financial help. You must be a resident of the city or town in which you apply.

2. What will I get?

Veterans Services provides cash assistance to pay for basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, housing supplies, and medical care. The amount you will get depends on your personal situation.

3. How Do I apply?

To apply for Veterans Services, you need to meet with your local veterans service officer, who will complete an application with you, explain all the information and have you sign. To reach the Whitman Veterans Service Officer call 781-618-9570. For more information call the Department of Veterans Services at 1-888-844-2838.

4. What documentation do I need?

To apply for Veterans Services, you will need the following documents:

• Military Discharge Record - Form DD214
  
• Personal and family information including proof of residency, birth certificate, driver's license, marriage certificate, divorce decree / separation papers, social security numbers
  
• Proof of resources: all bank account statements (last three months of each account), insurance policies, stocks, bonds, car registration, life insurance policies, etc.
  
• Proof of income: pay stubs, tax returns, pension statements, Social Security Award letter and any other receipts showing how much income you receive.
  
• Proof of expenses: property tax bill, rent receipts, mortgage statements, utility bills, food bills, and etc.

Your Veterans Service Officer will tell you which documents you need and will help you get any documents you don't have.