Overview
- Massachusetts State Ethics Commission issued an order alleging Fire Chief Gary Shepherd had a prohibited financial interest and acted for his company, Shepco Inc., in town projects.
- Shepco secured a $754,333 bridge replacement in December 2022 and a $4.7 million water main project in March 2023, totaling about $5.4 million.
- The commission says its Enforcement Division warned Shepherd on Nov. 30, 2022, that he needed an exemption and to consult the legal division before contracting with the town.
- Potential civil penalties could reach up to $10,000 for each violation if the allegations are upheld.
- Shepherd disputes the claims, asserting Shepco was the low bidder, says he filed a disclosure not on the state's form, and calls the accusations baseless.