POLITICS

Three towns enact and consider new local regulatory measures

PUBLISHED Jul 13, 2026, 11:03 PM ET

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North Bennington, Vermont; Fresno County, California; and Westerly, Rhode Island each moved this week on local ordinances: on July 7 North Bennington Village Trustees adopted an open burning and waste incineration ordinance effective 60 days after adoption; Fresno County unanimously approved the MEHKO ordinance on June 30 with a final public vote scheduled for July 14 at 9:30 a.m.; and Westerly's Town Council passed an emergency ordinance Monday implementing odd-even outdoor water restrictions after an earlier emergency ban. The measures immediately set rules, permits, and enforcement: North Bennington's ordinance restricts open burning while allowing permitted campfires and vegetation burns under conditions; Fresno's MEHKO move advances legal pathways for home-based food entrepreneurs with a public hearing at the Hall of Records where proponents such as Genoveva Islas argued it would expand opportunities; Westerly's ordinance enforces odd-even watering for addresses, extends to Pawcatuck users on the system, cites a recent 4-inch main separation at state beach property and establishes fines for violations as officials work with the state on repairs.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

June 30, 2025: Fresno County Board unanimously approved the MEHKO ordinance to continue the pilot program.
July 3, 2025: Westerly's odd-even outdoor water schedule was cited as an active restriction (example date).
July 7, 2025: North Bennington Village Trustees voted to adopt the open burning ordinance, effective in 60 days.
A few weeks before the Westerly council meeting: a 4-inch main separation at state beach property required state repair work.
Monday (this week): Westerly Town Council passed an emergency ordinance restricting outdoor water use; Fresno County set a final MEHKO vote for July 14 at 9:30 a.m.

News Intelligence

These local ordinances impact everyday life. In North Bennington, you'll need permits for certain types of outdoor fires. Fresno County residents can explore new home-based food businesses. And in Westerly, watch your watering schedule to avoid fines. Check your town's website for specific rules and permits.

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Who Benefited

Residents and public health benefited from reduced smoke and nuisance risks in North Bennington; home-based entrepreneurs, including immigrants, parents and caregivers, could gain legal income opportunities under Fresno County's MEHKO proposal; Westerly's ordinance aims to protect municipal water supply and service continuity.

Who Impacted

Individuals who previously disposed of solid waste via open burning will face new restrictions; prospective and existing home food operators must comply with ordinance rules pending final vote; Westerly homeowners face limits on outdoor water use and potential fines for violations.

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