ATHOL, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — The 1846 Bates Powers Dam has been classified as a significant hazard by the Office of Dam Safety. While the dam is within Phillipston town limits, it is owned by the town of Athol. Both towns are working towards a solution for the dam’s future which may include Phillipston taking ownership of the dam, sale of the dam to a private individual, or disposal of the dam. The Athol Selectboard will be discussing the issue at the September 17th meeting.