Ashland public meetings in 2023

Upper Charles River Trail Committee

The committee will discuss funding requests and grant submissions for trail parcels. Members will also review a traffic memo regarding downtown bicycle infrastructure.

• Review of traffic memo assessment of downtown bicycle infrastructure
• Plan for Mass Trails Grant submission for Route 126 parcels
• Plan for Community Preservation Committee (CPC) funding request
• Discussion of parcel between Chestnut St and Main St
• Discussion of Whittemore deed

Board of Health

The Board of Health is meeting to review and approve various 2024 permits for food establishments, tobacco sellers, haulers, and installers. The board will also consider exterior grease trap waivers for multiple local businesses and schools.

• Review of 2024 Retail Food, Food Establishment, Mobile Food, and Residential Kitchen permits
• Review of 2024 Tobacco Permit holders
• Review of 2024 Hauler and Installer permits
• Review of 2024 Exterior Grease Trap Waivers for 31 entities
• Updates on housing cases for Chestnut Place Apartments, 21 Main Street Unit 203, and Mill Pond Rest Home

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will discuss the FY24 budget and review priorities for the FY25 budget request. The board will also address staffing and the upcoming retirement of Lois McAuliffe.

• FY24 Budget
• FY25 Budget request and priorities
• Staffing
• Retirement of Lois McAuliffe
• Children's Report

Ashland Cultural Council

The Ashland Cultural Council will meet to conduct a revote regarding a specific grant application. The meeting is scheduled for December 19, 2023.

• Revote on a specific grant application

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to discuss the opt-in stretch code and the status of a proposed tree bylaw. The meeting includes a report from the Sustainability Coordinator regarding solar opportunities and the Energize Ashland report.

• Opt-in stretch code
• Status of the proposed Tree Bylaw
• Solar opportunities for the town
• Energize Ashland report
• Committee membership issues

Mindess School Building Committee

The committee will discuss construction schedules, general design, and permitting updates from the Conservation Commission. The body is also scheduled to review budget and MSBA updates and vote on invoices and change requests.

• Construction and schedule updates
• Conservation Commission permitting update
• Construction change requests and orders
• Budget and MSBA updates
• Approval of invoices

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority will meet to approve minutes and payables for November and December 2023. The board will discuss property and resident updates, including a filing on Sullivan/Flynn Law Group.

• Approval of November-December 2023 payables
• Discussion on Sullivan/Flynn Law Group filing
• Inspection outcome update
• Maintenance position update

School Committee

The Negotiation Subcommittee is meeting to organize the subcommittee and enter an executive session. The session is designated for collective bargaining strategy regarding the Ashland Educators Association.

• Executive session regarding collective bargaining for Teachers, Education Support Personnel, Nurses, and Administrative Assistants

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding site plan approval for a Chase Bank at 320 Pond Street and a special permit modification for T-Mobile equipment at 400 Cedar Street. The board will also discuss a new Tree Bylaw with the Sustainability Committee.

• Site Plan Review for JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A. at 320 Pond Street
• Special Permit Modification for T-Mobile Northeast LLC at 400 Cedar Street
• Discussion regarding development of new Tree Bylaw with Sustainability Committee
• Re-Release of Unit #19 at 7 Belcher Circle within Leah Estates

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will receive presentations on School Improvement Plans for Mindess and AMS. The body will also discuss warrant approvals and a report from the Student Advisory Council.

• School Improvement Plan Presentation for Mindess
• School Improvement Plan Presentation for AMS
• Warrant Approvals
• Student Advisory Council presentation
• Review of gifts and donations

Town Forest Committee

The committee will review expense submittals, accounting reports, and a budget request for land acquisition due diligence. Discussion topics include storm water conservation, smoking bans, and subcommittee objectives for 2023/24.

• Budget request for Land Acquisition due diligence funding
• Review of ban on smoking within the forest
• Storm Water Conservation / Water Management update
• Forestry, Trails and Recreation, and Education subcommittee updates

Keefe Technical School Budget Sub-Committee

The Budget Sub-Committee will review budget presentations for several departments, including School Finance, Human Resources, and District-Wide Technology. The meeting will conclude with a vote on the preliminary budget.

• Budget presentations for School Finance/Human Resources
• Budget presentations for District-Wide Technology
• Review of Salaries, Benefits, and Fixed Charges
• Vote of Preliminary Budget by Sub-Committee

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss next steps for the Village Cemetery and the Local Historic District. The body will also review walking tours and a demolition delay by-law.

• Village Cemetery next steps
• Local Historic District next steps
• Walking tours update
• Demolition Delay By-law discussion

School Committee

The School Wellness Subcommittee is meeting to finalize revisions to the Life Threatening Allergy and Concussion policies. The body will also discuss local school wellness policy regulations and conduct a WellSAT3.0 assessment.

• Vote to send Life Threatening Allergy Policy revisions to Policy Subcommittee
• Vote to send Concussion Policy revisions to Policy Subcommittee
• Introduction of School Wellness Coach Alison Doak
• Completion of WellSAT3.0 assessment of local school wellness policy

Metrowest Veterans Services District

The Board of Directors will meet to review a renewal draft of the District Agreement among the member towns. The meeting also includes updates on staffing and activities.

• Review of renewal draft for District Agreement By and Among the Towns
• Approval of September 18th, 2023 meeting minutes
• Staffing and activities updates

Design Review Committee

The committee will review updates regarding the Comprehensive Plan and various reports on signage and scenic roads. Members will also discuss proposed changes to parking lot bylaws and site plan review requirements.

• Discussion of parking lot bylaws and minimum parking space triggers
• Review of proposed bylaw changes to design review triggers (section 9.6)
• Review of site plan review application requirements (section 9.4)
• Discussion of proposed guideline changes for planting and parking
• Updates on the Comprehensive Plan and public event planning

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review the November 2 meeting minutes and receive a presentation regarding a Climate Resiliency Grant. The body will also discuss scheduling a date to present a Hero Award at a Select Board meeting in January 2024.

• Climate Resiliency Grant presentation by Samantha Riley
• Scheduling the Hero Award presentation for January 2024

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Affordable Housing Trust Fund will meet to review updates from the Metro West Collaborative Development and the Comprehensive Plan Committee. The body will also discuss projects located at Olive Street and 487 Main St.

• Discussion regarding Olive Street
• Discussion regarding 487 Main St
• Update from Metro West Collaborative Development Executive Director Caitlin Madden
• Comprehensive Plan Committee Update

Select Board

The Select Board will hold public hearings regarding a livery license and an alteration of a licensed premise for the Warren Conference Center. The meeting also includes discussions on annual license renewals, the senior work-off program, and community block grant monitoring.

• Public Hearing: Alteration of Licensed Premise for Warren Conference Center
• Public Hearing: Livery License for Anthony Gomes
• Vote to close the Tax Classification Hearing
• Grant request approval: $2,040.80 sign and façade grant for Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream
• Acceptance of $300.00 donation from Ashland Indian Club for the Ashland Food Pantry

Keefe Technical School Budget Sub-Committee

The Budget Sub-Committee will hear budget presentations from four specific school departments. This meeting is part of the school's budgetary planning process.

• Budget presentation: Guidance and Admissions
• Budget presentation: Special Education
• Budget presentation: Academic Areas
• Budget presentation: Vocational and Co-Operative Areas

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to discuss the opt-in stretch code and the status of a proposed tree bylaw. The meeting includes a report from the Sustainability Coordinator covering several local energy and environmental initiatives.

• Opt-in stretch code
• Proposed Tree Bylaw
• Energize Ashland report
• Heat island survey
• Solar on Schools and Community Solar

Ashland Cultural Council

The Ashland Cultural Council will meet to discuss the Starbuck’s Mural project with advisors and review survey feedback. The body will also discuss the 2024 Dragonfly Festival and the council's logo. A budget update for FY23 will be provided.

• Discussion of Starbuck’s Mural timeline, subjects, and advisor input
• Planning for the 2024 Dragonfly Festival
• Review of FY23 budget expenses and remaining funds
• Discussion regarding a council logo
• Vote on meeting minutes from 10/2, 11/6, and 11/13, 2023

Keefe Technical School Budget Sub-Committee

The Budget Sub-Committee will meet to hear budget presentations from four specific school departments. No votes or final decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Budget presentation: School Committee
• Budget presentation: Superintendent’s Office
• Budget presentation: Facility/Ground Maintenance
• Budget presentation: Principal’s Area/Leadership

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a special permit modification for 400 Cedar Street and a site plan review for 9-49 Homer Avenue. The board will also discuss the development of a new Tree Bylaw with the Sustainability Committee.

• Public hearing continuance for T-Mobile Northeast LLC regarding antenna relocation at 400 Cedar Street
• Reopening of public hearing for WJK Homer LLC site plan and special permit application at 9-49 Homer Avenue
• Discussion with Sustainability Committee regarding new Tree Bylaw development
• Planning Office updates on various projects including Whitmore Estates, 100-130 Chestnut Street, and 399 Union Street
• New application received for 320 Pond Street (Chase Bank)

Ashland Middle School Site Council

The Ashland Middle School Site Council will discuss student surveys, playbook training, and Project 351. The body will also review a budget update and a new improvement plan template.

• Review of new Improvement Plan template and changes for Objective #1
• Budget update
• Updates on ISSPs and Term 1 student/parent surveys
• Playbook Training and Project 351 updates
• DAET Retreat updates

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and sign FY24 exemption applications. No other appointments or discussion items are scheduled.

• Signing of FY24 exemption applications

Town Meeting

Town voters will decide on transferring $1,743,648 in free cash to various stabilization and capital funds. The meeting includes proposals for senior tax exemptions, land acquisitions, and the authorization of 16 additional liquor licenses.

• Transfer of $1,743,648 from Free Cash to stabilization, trust, and capital accounts
• Appropriation of up to $215,000 from the Community Preservation Fund for a dog park on Memorial Drive
• Home Rule Petition to increase on-premises alcohol licenses by 16
• Acceptance of a land donation at 0 Fountain Street Rear (+/-10,890 square feet)
• Acceptance of a 15-foot access easement at 107 High Street

Select Board

The Ashland Select Board will meet to conduct a review of the Town Meeting Warrant. No other specific business items are listed on the agenda.

• Review Town Meeting Warrant

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to discuss the opt-in stretch code and the status of a proposed tree bylaw. The meeting includes a report from the Sustainability Coordinator covering solar initiatives and a heat island survey.

• Opt-in stretch code discussion
• Status of proposed Tree Bylaw
• Energize Ashland report
• Heat island survey
• Solar on Schools and Community Solar

Ashland Housing Authority

The Board will review the Executive Director's report and approve payables for October and November 2023. Members will discuss a filing on the Sullivan/Flynn Law Group and provide project updates. The meeting includes a tenant open forum.

• Approval of October-November 2023 payables
• Property/resident update regarding filing on Sullivan/Flynn Law Group
• Champ/vacancy update
• Planning for holiday event date and entertainment
• Confirmation of change of board meeting days

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will review the FY24 budget and establish priorities and a timeline for FY25. The meeting also includes discussions on staffing and the annual report to the MBLC.

• FY24 Budget
• Staffing
• FY25 Budget Priorities and Timeline
• Annual Report to MBLC
• Children's Report

Board of Health

The Board of Health will receive updates on several local health matters, including West Nile Virus cases and the Howe Street landfill. The meeting also includes discussions regarding housing cases at Chestnut Place Apartments and 137 Pond Street.

• Update on Howe Street (Former) Landfill
• Updates on housing cases for Chestnut Place Apartments, 137 Pond Street, and Mill Pond Rest Home
• Restaurant ownership updates for Los Cabos and Dairy Queen
• Review of FY2024 YTD Budget Reports
• Update on West Nile Virus cases in 2023

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will discuss administrative requests including new student organizations and school physician staffing. The body will also review enrollment projections and funding allocations for FY 2024.

• Proposal for softball field lighting installation at Warren School
• Recommended replacement for School Physician: Dr. Michele Duke
• Request for new student organizations and stipends: Rainbow Club (Mindess) and Culinary Club (AHS)
• School Choice Funding Allocation FY 2024
• NESDEC enrollment projections

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is meeting for a site visit behind the Federated Church at the Village Cemetery. The agenda specifies that this is a site visit only with no discussion.

• Site visit behind the Federated Church at the Village Cemetery

Design Review Committee

The committee will discuss proposed changes to parking lot bylaws and minimum parking space requirements. Members will also review potential updates to design review triggers and site plan application requirements.

• Discussion of parking lot bylaws and minimum parking spaces for trigger
• Proposed changes to design review triggers (section 9.6)
• Proposed changes to site plan review application requirements (section 9.4)
• Review of proposed guideline changes regarding planting and parking
• Updates on the Comprehensive Plan

Mindess School Building Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss construction schedules, permitting, and general design updates for the Mindess School. The body will also review budget updates and MSBA matters.

• Construction and schedule updates
• Permitting update
• Budget review and possible change requests
• Construction change requests/orders
• Approval of invoices

Planning Board

The Planning Board and Select Board will hold a joint meeting to review the MBTA Communities Zoning Recommendation. The boards will also review the Comprehensive Plan Document previously voted on by both bodies.

• Review of MBTA Communities Zoning Recommendation
• Review of Comprehensive Plan Document

Select Board

The Select Board and Planning Board are holding a joint meeting to review the MBTA Communities Zoning Recommendation. The boards will also review the Comprehensive Plan Document previously voted on by both bodies.

• Review of MBTA Communities Zoning Recommendation
• Review of Comprehensive Plan Document

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in Executive Session to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property at 12-14 Union Street. The Board will also discuss strategy regarding pending litigation.

• Real property negotiation for Parcel C (12-14 Union Street)
• Litigation strategy discussion

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The Project Management Group will meet virtually to discuss operations and protocol. The body will also review and approve outstanding minutes.

• Discussion of Project management Team operations and protocol

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a joint meeting with the Planning Board to review the MBTA Communities Zoning Recommendation and the Comprehensive Plan Document. The board will also review the Special Town Meeting Warrant and vote on BAA and Community Grant recommendations.

• Joint meeting with Planning Board to review MBTA Communities Zoning Recommendation
• Review of Comprehensive Plan Document
• $2,141.00 funding recommendation for a new sign at Marathon Mobil, 103 West Union Street
• $6,490.00 rental assistance recommendation for Fishworks at 111 Cherry Street
• Tax Classification Hearing

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss next steps for the Local Historic District and the Village Cemetery. The body will also receive an update on walking tours.

• Village Cemetery meeting discussion
• Local Historic District next steps
• Walking tours update

Ashland Cultural Council

The Ashland Cultural Council will review grant applications received for 2023. The body will determine the total funding available and the amounts for fully funded, partially funded, and denied applicants.

• Review of 2023 Local Cultural Council (LCC) grant applications
• FY23 Cultural Council budget and expenses update
• FY23 Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) grant update

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue a public hearing regarding T-Mobile Northeast LLC's request to modify a special permit for equipment on a water tank. The board will also receive various reports on planning topics and administrative updates.

• Public Hearing: Special Permit Modification for antenna relocation at 400 Cedar Street
• Request by WJK Homer LLC to continue 9-49 Homer Avenue hearing to November 30, 2023
• Reports on Scenic Roads, Economic Impact Tool, and Parking Memo
• Planning Office updates regarding Whitmore Estates, 100-130 Chestnut Street, and 501 Pond Street

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Affordable Housing Trust Fund will meet to review updates from the Comprehensive Plan Committee and discuss specific properties. The body will also address a refinance for 155 America Boulevard.

• Olive Street
• Comprehensive Plan Committee Update
• Gomez Refinance for 155 America Boulevard
• 487 Main Street Habitat discussion

Select Board

The Select Board Grant Review Sub-Committee will meet to review and discuss grant applications. The committee will also determine recommendations to present to the Select Board.

• Review and discussion of grant applications
• Determination of recommendations for the Select Board

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee will meet to review water management updates and DCR program results. Members will discuss potential new restrictions regarding smoking and dog exclusion in the forest. The meeting includes reports on forestry, trails, education, and land acquisition.

• Proposed signage for possible dog exclusion from forest
• Discussion of smoking ban within the forest and enforcement
• Storm Water Conservation / Water Management update
• Land Acquisition Recommendations update
• Review of 2023/24 objectives for Forestry, Trails and Recreation, and Education subcommittees

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to review Town Meeting Warrant Articles. The body will also receive an update from the Restrictions Working Group and discuss plans for the Valentine Property.

• Review of Town Meeting Warrant Articles
• Restrictions Working Group update
• Valentine Property plans

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss and vote on recommendations for the Fall Town Meeting Warrant. The committee will also review the budget calendar for fiscal year 2025.

• Recommendations on the Fall Town Meeting Warrant
• Review of fiscal year 2025 budget calendar

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to discuss the opt-in stretch code and the status of a proposed tree bylaw. The meeting includes a report from the Sustainability Coordinator on several local energy and solar initiatives.

• Discussion on opt-in stretch code
• Status update on the proposed Tree Bylaw
• Energize Ashland report
• Heat island survey
• Solar on Schools and Community Solar updates

Ashland Cultural Council

The Ashland Cultural Council will review the FY23 budget and grant reimbursements. The body is discussing the artist search and funding for the Starbuck’s Mural and planning for the 2024 Dragonfly Festival.

• Starbuck’s Mural artist search and funding update
• Upcoming grant cycle review and schedule
• Dragonfly Festival 2024 planning
• FY23 Cultural Council budget and expenses review
• Vote on October 2, 2023 meeting minutes

Keefe Technical School Committee

The District School Committee will hold a regular meeting to review previous minutes and receive reports from the Superintendent-Director. The agenda includes updates on enrollment, admissions, and a NEASC report.

• Approval of October 2, 2023, meeting minutes
• Enrollment and Admissions Update
• NEASC Report (Appendix 2023-77)
• Non-Salary Financial Expenditure Report (Appendix 2023-78)

Design Review Committee

The committee will discuss changes to parking lot bylaws, including minimum parking space requirements. Members will also review proposed updates to design review triggers and site plan application requirements.

• Discussion of parking lot bylaws and minimum parking spaces
• Proposed changes to design review triggers (section 9.6)
• Proposed changes to site plan review application requirements (section 9.4)
• Review of proposed guideline changes for planting and parking
• Updates on the Comprehensive Plan

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and receive a Director's Report. The agenda includes reviewing action items from a recent retreat regarding council goals and selecting wording for Community Hero Award plaques.

• Approval of October 5 and October 13, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and selection of Community Hero Award plaques and wording
• Development of action items based on retreat discussions regarding CoA goals
• Installation of a new member

School Committee

The Safety Sub-Committee is meeting to provide general updates and enter an executive session. The committee will discuss the deployment of security personnel, devices, or related strategies.

• Executive session regarding security personnel and device deployment

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to vote on closing, signing, and posting the warrant for the November 29, 2023, Special Town Meeting. The board will also discuss funding for an employee recognition event and receive updates on trails and public safety.

• Vote to close, sign, and post the Special Town Meeting Warrant for November 29, 2023
• Discussion of funds from the Selectmen’s Gift Account for an Employee Recognition Event
• Appointment of Raymond Harding as a Public Safety Dispatcher
• Appointment of Laura Bernier as a Library Assistant
• Request to add a 'Little Library' at Cadilac Paint Park (Ashland Arboretum)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to sign FY24 exemption applications and discuss administrative matters. The agenda includes discussions on senior exemption percentages, public disclosure, and classification hearings.

• Signing of FY24 exemption applications
• Granting authority to Rich Ball to submit form LA4
• Discussion of Senior Exemption percentage
• Discussion of Classification Hearing
• Discussion of Public Disclosure

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue public hearings regarding a special permit modification at 400 Cedar Street and a site plan review for 9-49 Homer Avenue. The meeting also includes reports on scenic roads, parking, and various town committees.

• Continued Public Hearing: T-Mobile Northeast LLC requesting antenna relocation at 400 Cedar Street
• Continued Public Hearing: WJK Homer LLC site plan and special permit application for 9-49 Homer Avenue
• Reports on Scenic Roads, Economic Impact Tool, and Parking Memo
• Planning Office updates regarding Whitmore Estates, 100-130 Chestnut Street, and other local projects

Upper Charles River Trail Committee

The committee will discuss project funding, staffing, and updates regarding the trail route and implementation team. Members will also review town-owned land issues and temporary changes to the Whittemore plan.

• Vote on potential new committee member
• Discussion on project funding and staffing
• Update on AHS - School Committee and trail route
• Discussion of temporary changes to Whittemore plan
• Update on Homer Ave issues

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will meet to review its annual report and discuss updates regarding the Farmer's Market and Mass River Alliance Enterprise Fund efforts.

• Review of Annual Report
• Updates on Farmer's Market
• Mass River Alliance Enterprise Fund efforts
• Approval of June 21, 2023 minutes

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to review administrative updates and superintendent goals. The body is scheduled to discuss MASS/MASC resolutions and approve warrants.

• Superintendent’s Goals
• MASS/MASC Resolutions
• Warrant Approvals
• Gifts and Donations

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to review the status of a proposed Tree Bylaw and discuss the opt-in Stretch code. The meeting includes a report from the Sustainability Coordinator.

• Status of the proposed Tree Bylaw
• Opt-in Stretch code discussion
• Sustainability Coordinator’s report

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority will meet to approve minutes and payables for September and October 2023. The board will review reports on budgets, vacancies, and property updates.

• Approval of September-October 2023 payables
• Budget update
• Champ/vacancy update
• Property and project updates

Ashland Middle School Site Council

The Ashland Middle School Site Council will meet to discuss school year openings and student surveys. Members will review the MCAS DESE Report Card data. The meeting includes a discussion on the role of the Site Council.

• Review of MCAS DESE Report Card data
• Updates on MCAS scores and ISSPs
• Discussion of new software
• Review of student and parent surveys

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss scheduling public forums regarding the Valentine Property and review updates to the Comprehensive Plan. The board will also discuss extending deadlines and clarifying guidelines for BAA and Select Board Community Grant programs.

• Discussion of public forum dates for the Valentine Property
• Updates on BAA Grant and Select Board Community Grant guidelines
• Re-appointment of Debbie Bresnick and Moala Kitayimbwa to the Ashland Cultural Council
• Appointment of Joshua Abrams to the WACA Board of Directors
• Town Manager updates on the Downtown Project and budget

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet in executive session to discuss ongoing litigation involving Chelcie Development LLC and several town officials. This meeting is scheduled for October 18, 2023.

• Executive Session regarding Chelcie Development LLC v. Peter Matchak, et al. (Civil Action No. 2381CV02580)

Select Board

The Select Board and Planning Board will meet in executive session to discuss ongoing litigation involving Chelcie Development LLC and several town officials. This meeting is scheduled for October 18, 2023.

• Executive Session regarding Chelcie Development LLC v. Peter Matchak, et al. (Civil Action No. 2381CV02580)

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will meet to review its annual report and discuss updates regarding the Farmer's Market and Mass River Alliance enterprise fund efforts.

• Approval of June 21, 2023 minutes
• Review of Annual Report
• Discussion of Mass River Alliance Enterprise Fund efforts
• Updates on Farmer's Market

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will meet to discuss the FY24 budget and review an updated art policy from Town Counsel. The board will also address patron resolutions and the posting of a staff position.

• FY24 Budget
• Updated Art Policy from Town Counsel
• Posting the Assistant Director/Director of Youth Services Position
• Patron Resolutions
• Fall Friends Auction

Board of Health

The Board will review a septic variance request at 61 Valley Road, discuss potential locations for the RAM Clinic in 2024, and consider updates on various health-related topics.

• Septic Variance Request at 61 Valley Road
• Discussion of potential location for RAM Clinic in 2024

Mindess School Building Committee

The committee will discuss construction schedules, general design, and budget updates related to the MSBA. Members will also review construction change orders and approve invoices.

• Construction Change Order CR 155 for Outdoor Furniture
• Approval of invoices
• Budget and MSBA updates
• Approval of September 19, 2023 meeting minutes

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to discuss community support and Planning Board concerns regarding the opt-in stretch code. The body will also review the status of a proposed tree bylaw and receive reports on solar initiatives.

• Opt-in stretch code community support and Planning Board concerns
• Status of the proposed Tree Bylaw
• Energize Ashland Report
• Solar on Schools
• Community Solar

Council on Aging

The Ashland Council on Aging will meet to discuss its goals, action plans, and sub-committees for the 2023-24 year. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Ashland Public Library.

• Review of COA goals, action plans, and sub-committees for 2023-24

Planning Board

The Ashland Planning Board is conducting public hearings regarding a special permit modification for antennas at 400 Cedar Street and a site plan review for 9-49 Homer Avenue. The board will also receive various reports on topics including scenic roads, parking, and the comprehensive plan.

• Public Hearing: T-Mobile Northeast LLC seeks to modify a special permit at 400 Cedar Street to relocate antennas and install 5G equipment
• Public Hearing: WJK Homer LLC site plan and special permit application for 9-49 Homer Avenue
• Reports on scenic roads, economic impact tool, and parking memo
• Updates on Whitmore Estates Definitive Subdivision and 100-130 Chestnut Street

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Affordable Housing Trust Fund is meeting to approve minutes and discuss specific items. The agenda includes a discussion regarding Olive Street and an update from the Comprehensive Plan Committee.

• Olive Street
• Comprehensive Plan Committee Update

Design Review Committee

The committee will review material samples and discuss a design review edit of Report 3 regarding the property at 9-49 Homer Avenue. The meeting also includes a review of outstanding minutes.

• Samples review for 9-49 Homer Avenue
• Design Review Edit of Report 3 for 9-49 Homer Avenue

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee is meeting to review expense reports and discuss storm water conservation and water management in the forest. Members will also provide updates on the DCR program and the Northwest Area. Subcommittee leads will discuss general objectives for 2023/24.

• Storm Water Conservation / Water Management in Forest
• Update on DCR program
• Northwest Area updates
• Education and Promotion subcommittee update on Scout Weekend
• Land Acquisition Recommendations update

School Committee

The School Committee will review the district's strategic plan and the superintendent's goals. The meeting includes a presentation from the Student Advisory Council and an executive session regarding multiple staff contracts.

• Strategic Plan and Superintendent’s Goals discussion
• Approval of Boys’ Basketball overnight trip
• Warrant and gift/donation approvals
• Executive session on contracts for teachers, nurses, educational support personnel, secretaries, and custodians

David Mindess Elementary School Council

The School Site Council is meeting to discuss the work of the council, including the budget and parental feedback. Members will specifically review the current School Improvement Plan.

• Review of current School Improvement Plan (SIP)
• Discussion of budget
• Discussion of communication and parental feedback

Historical Commission

The Ashland Historical Commission will meet to discuss the development of a Local Historic District. The body will also receive updates on the Valentine Property, the Village Cemetery, and walking tours.

• Discussion of next steps for the Local Historic District
• Valentine Property update by Michael Herbert
• Village Cemetery discussion
• Walking tours update
• Native American Tour in Town Forest on October 14 by Curtis Hoffman

Council on Aging

The meeting will primarily discuss ongoing initiatives, including the Comprehensive Plan and approval of a Hero Award application.

• Review and approval of Council on Aging Hero award application

Metrowest Regional Emergency Planning Committee

The MetroWest Regional Emergency Planning Committee will meet to review minutes from July 6, 2023. The session includes a presentation from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and a report from the Training Committee.

• CISA Protective Security Advisor Program Overview presentation by Glenn Carrano

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss two Town Meeting Warrant articles. The session will also include project updates and new business.

• Dog Park Town Meeting Warrant Article
• Fire Department Grant Article

Ashland Cultural Council

The Ashland Cultural Council is meeting to review the FY23/24 budget and the upcoming grant cycle. The body will also discuss updates regarding the Starbuck’s Mural and the 2024 Dragonfly Festival.

• Update on Starbuck’s Mural artist search and funding
• Planning for the upcoming grant cycle publicity and schedule
• Review of FY23/24 budget and grant reimbursements
• Recap of the Ashland Farmer’s Market and survey
• Update on the 2024 Dragonfly Festival

Metrowest Regional Transit Authority

The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will meet to discuss and potentially approve the FY24 revised budget and reserve accounts. The board will also consider a contract amendment for fixed route and demand response services and a vehicle purchase.

• FY24 Revised Budget discussion and approval
• Reserve Accounts discussion and approval
• Fixed Route & Demand Response Contract Amendment discussion and approval
• Vehicle Purchase discussion and approval

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a Special Permit, Design Plan Review, and Site Plan Review application for 9-49 Homer Avenue. The board will also discuss the development of a new Tree Bylaw with the Sustainability Committee.

• Public Hearing: 9-49 Homer Avenue Site Plan and Special Permit Application
• Discussion regarding development of new Tree Bylaw
• Reports on Scenic Roads, Economic Impact Tool, and Parking Memo
• Planning Office updates including Whitmore Estates, 100-130 Chestnut Street, 501 Pond Street, 399 Union Street/Starbucks, and 12 Pond Street

English Learner Parent Advisory Council (ELPAC)

The English Learner Parent Advisory Council is meeting to conduct introductions and discuss the role of the council. The agenda consists of procedural items and general business.

Keefe Tech School Council

The School Council will meet to elect a Co-Chair and review the role of the council. Members will also discuss the introduction of new courses and the Seal of Biliteracy.

• Election of Co-Chair
• Discussion of new courses presented by Kelly Garabadian
• Discussion of Seal of Biliteracy presented by Rebecca Swasey

Metrowest Regional Transit Authority

The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority Finance & Audit Committee will meet to review final financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2022. The committee will also discuss budget results for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, and the period ending August 31, 2023.

• Presentation of final financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2022
• Discussion of actual results versus budget for FYE 6/30/2023 and the period ended 8/31/2023
• Discussion of the June 20, 2023 audit scope
• Discussion of CyberSecurity
• Committee reorganization

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Ashland Affordable Housing Trust will meet to review minutes and discuss specific housing matters. The agenda includes an update from the Comprehensive Plan Committee.

• Discussion regarding Olive Street
• Comprehensive Plan Committee Update

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will meet to discuss the district's strategic plan and the goals of the superintendent. The body will also review MASC resolutions and act on warrants and donations.

• Strategic Plan and Superintendent’s Goals
• Warrant Approvals
• Gift and Donation Approvals
• Review Resolutions from MASC and election of delegate
• Logo follow-up

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to discuss the Opt-in Stretch code and the status of a proposed Tree Bylaw. The meeting includes a report from the Sustainability Coordinator on Energize Ashland, Solar on Schools, and Community Solar.

• Opt-in Stretch code discussion
• Status of the proposed Tree Bylaw
• Energize Ashland status
• Solar on Schools
• Community Solar

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority will hold a regular monthly board meeting to discuss property and resident updates. The board will review a budget presentation pending from accountant Richard Shaw.

• Approval of August and September 2023 payables
• Budget presentation by accountant Richard Shaw
• Updates on CHAMP and vacant units
• Tenant open forum

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will meet to review its annual report. The committee will also discuss updates regarding the Farmer's Market and Mass River Alliance enterprise fund efforts.

• Review of the Annual Report
• Updates on Farmer's Market
• Updates on Mass River Alliance Enterprise Fund efforts

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to review the status of a proposed Tree Bylaw and hold discussions regarding the Planning Board. The meeting also includes reports on Energize Ashland and the Sustainability Coordinator's activities.

• Status of the proposed Tree Bylaw
• Discussions with Planning Board
• Energize Ashland Report
• Sustainability Coordinator’s report
• Committee Membership issues

Select Board

The Select Board will review updates on the 495 Partnership and Cadillac Paint Park. The board will also consider a $30,000 recommendation for Quilling Card to fund equipment and space build-out.

• $30,000 recommendation for Quilling Card for equipment and space build-out
• Discussion regarding Cadillac Paint Park name
• Review of the Community Choice Power Aggregation Program
• Appointment of Joseph Shebertes as Public Safety Dispatcher
• Appointment of Eve Buchhalter as Recreation Administrative Assistant

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss a legal matter involving Chelcie Development LLC and several town officials. This meeting is scheduled for September 20, 2023.

• Executive Session regarding litigation: Chelcie Development LLC v. Peter Matchak, et al. (Civil Action No. 2381CV02580)

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will meet to discuss the FY24 budget and patron issues. The board is reviewing a new photography and filming policy and updates to the art policy. Other agenda items include police use of cameras and fundraising for the Fall Friends Auction.

• FY24 Budget
• Police use of cameras
• New Policy for Photography and Filming
• Updated Art Policy with Town Counsel edits
• Fall Friends Auction fundraising

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review a tobacco regulation waiver for Marathon Mobil Retail at 103 W. Union Street. The Health Director will also provide updates on restaurant inspections, beach postings, and housing cases.

• Tobacco Regulation Section E.11(c) waiver for 103 W. Union Street
• Update on Chestnut Place Apartments at 137 Pond Street
• Update on 3-year contract for 102 Howe Street former landfill
• Review of FY2024 YTD Budget Report
• Report on abandoned pool on Cedar Street

Mindess School Building Committee

The Mindess School Building Committee will discuss construction schedules, permitting, and MSBA funding. The body is scheduled to review general design updates and construction change orders.

• Construction and schedule updates
• MSBA funding and budget updates
• Construction change orders
• Approval of invoices
• Report of approved expenditures and change requests

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The committee will meet to interview a candidate for a vacancy and plan for an Ashland Day booth on September 23. Members will also provide updates on the Upper Charles Trail and the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee.

• Interview with candidate for committee vacancy
• Planning for Ashland Day booth on September 23
• Update on Upper Charles Trail
• Update on Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee
• Update on Stormwater Management

Metrowest Veterans Services District

The Board of Directors will meet via Zoom to conduct board reorganization and finalize the FY2024 meeting schedule. The session includes updates on staffing and activities from the Director.

• Board reorganization
• Finalization of FY2024 Board Meeting Schedule
• Review and approval of June 5th, 2023 meeting minutes
• Staffing and activities updates

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a joint meeting with the Select Board regarding the MBTA Communities Act and interim zoning. The Board will also conduct a public hearing for 10-60 Main Street, where the applicant has requested to withdraw their application without prejudice.

• Public Hearing: 10-60 Main Street project withdrawal request
• Joint meeting with Select Board regarding MBTA Communities Act
• Review of applications for Associate Member Position (Amanda Hayes and Stephen Morgan)
• Discussion of interim zoning related to Comprehensive Plan

Select Board

The Select Board and Planning Board will hold a joint meeting to discuss the MBTA Communities Act and interim zoning related to the Comprehensive Plan. The boards will also review applications for the Associate Member position.

• Discussion of MBTA Communities Act
• Discussion of Interim Zoning related to Comprehensive Plan
• Review of applications for Associate Member position from Amanda Hayes and Stephen Morgan

Ashland Cultural Council

The Ashland Cultural Council will meet to review budget updates and the upcoming grant cycle. The body will also discuss updates regarding the Ashland Farmer’s Market, the Dragonfly Festival 2024, and a mural at Starbuck’s.

• Update on Starbuck’s Mural artist search and funding
• Planning for the upcoming grant cycle publicity and schedule
• Updates on the Ashland Farmer’s Market survey and schedule
• Discussion on the Dragonfly Festival 2024
• Review of FY21 CC Budget expenses and remaining funds

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee is meeting to discuss forest fire protection with Fire Chief Robie and review the land acquisition priority list. The body will also address trail maintenance, storm water conservation, and subcommittee objectives for 2023/24.

• Fire protection for forest discussion with Fire Chief Robie
• Review of Land Acquisition Priority list
• Storm Water Conservation and Water Management on Forest Trails
• High School service program day on Oct. 18 at Kelley St. Coeur AHS
• Election of Officers

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee will meet to discuss forest fire protection with Fire Chief Robie and review the land acquisition priority list. The body will also elect officers and establish meeting procedures for the year.

• Fire protection for forest with Fire Chief Robie
• Election of Officers
• Land Accusation Priority list review
• High School service program day on Oct. 18th at Kelley St.
• Storm Water Conservation and Water Management on Forest Trails

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to review new staff and receive an update on the Upper Charles River Trail. The body is scheduled to discuss Policy KE regarding public complaints and approve warrants.

• Policy KE: Public Complaints
• Warrant Approvals
• Upper Charles River Trail Committee update
• Approval of minutes from July 17 and July 25, 2023

Historical Commission

The Ashland Historical Commission will meet to elect officers for the upcoming year. The body will discuss the next steps for the Local Historic District and provide updates on walking tours and the Village Cemetery.

• Election of officers for the upcoming year
• Discussion on Local Historic District next steps
• Native American site tours in the Town Forest
• Village Cemetery discussion
• Ashland Day 9-23-2023

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to nominate a new Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. The meeting also includes a review of the updated Senior Center brochure and updates on ongoing initiatives.

• Nomination of Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Approval of June 2023 minutes
• Review of updated Ashland Senior Center/Council on Aging brochure
• Updates on Comprehensive Plan, Senior Hero Award, and Farmers Market

The Council on Aging elected a new Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. The board approved the June 2023 minutes, the Director's report, and a plan for the Senior Heroes Award. The board decided the COA will not participate in the Farmers Market.

• Elected Fran (Chair), Steve (Vice Chair), and Lisa (Clerk) (6-0)
• Approved June 2023 minutes (6-0)
• Approved Director's report (6-0)
• Approved plan for Senior Heroes Award (6-0)
• Decided COA will not participate in Farmers Market
• Created sub-committee for NHS community service volunteers consisting of Fran, Alexis, and Lisa

Ashland Cultural Council

The Ashland Cultural Council is meeting to discuss the selection process and timeline for the Starbucks mural. The body will also address Farmer's Market scheduling and the creation of a new Events Manager role.

• Discussion of applicant selection and timeline for the Starbucks mural
• Scheduling for the Ashland Farmer's Market (8am-1pm)
• Vote on the creation of a new Events Manager role
• Review of open roles for Chair and Grant Manager

The council approved the minutes from the August 7, 2023 meeting. Members elected Stacey Grant-Lewis as Chairperson and Sheila Watnick as Events Manager. The council also outlined a timeline for the Starbucks Mural project and planned for the September 30 Farmers Market.

• Approved August 7, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Stacey Grant-Lewis as Chairperson
• Elected Sheila Watnick as Events Manager
• Deferred Grant Manager role until present grant cycle

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct public hearings regarding an additional alcohol license for 3 Ponderosa Road and a license relocation for Mike’s Auto Sales LLC. The board will also vote on finalizing an agreement for 433 Chestnut Street and review modifications to the BAA Grant Program.

• Public Hearing: Ashland Fish and Game request for additional All Alcohol Liquor License at 3 Ponderosa Road
• Public Hearing: Mike’s Auto Sales LLC request to move Class II License from 183 Megunko Road to 50 Megunko Road
• Vote on finalizing the agreement for 433 Chestnut Street
• Acceptance of $921,943.63 FY2022 Assistance to Firefighters Grant for Air Packs
• Acceptance of $92,906 Community Compact Grant for fiber installation on Independence Lane

The Select Board approved an all-alcohol liquor license for the Ashland Fish and Game Club and a location change for Mike's Auto Sales LLC. The Board also signed a compliance agreement for the renovation of 433 Chestnut Street and discussed a proposal to turn the Valentine Estate into a multi-functional agricultural center.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance Agreement for 433 Chestnut Street renovation (5-0-0)
• Approved All Alcohol Liquor License for Ashland Fish and Game pavilion with 10:00 PM closing time (5-0-0)
• Approved request for Mike’s Auto Sales LLC to move Class II License from 183 Megunko Road to 50 Megunko Road (5-0-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold an executive session to review the minutes from the July 12, 2023, Executive Session. No other business is listed on this agenda.

• Review of July 12, 2023, Executive Session minutes

The Select Board met in executive session to review and amend minutes from a previous meeting. The board approved the July 12, 2023, minutes with one amendment regarding a discussion on appeals and the Comprehensive Plan.

• Approved July 12, 2023 Executive Session Minutes with amendment (5-0-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will conduct hearings regarding a septic system variance at 26 Strobus Lane and bedbug/kitchen issues at Mill Pond Rest Home. The Health Director will also provide updates on several housing cases, local water conditions, and wasp activity.

• Septic System Variance Hearing Request for 26 Strobus Lane
• Mill Pond Rest Home hearing regarding bedbug infestation and kitchen issues
• Update on 3-year contract for Howe Street Former Landfill at 102 Howe Street
• Housing case updates for Chestnut Place Apartments and 137 Pond Street
• Appointment of MetroWest Tobacco Control Project Manager, Parivallal Thillaigovinda

The Board of Health approved several septic system variances and waivers for a property at 26 Strobus Lane. The Board also appointed a new Tobacco Control Manager for the town. Discussions were held regarding bedbug and roach infestations at Mill Pond Rest Home.

• Appointed Parivallal Thillaigovinda as Tobacco Control Manager (4-0)
• Approved variance for 26 Strobus Lane to allow a leaching bed instead of a trench system and waive percolation tests (4-0)
• Approved waiver for 26 Strobus Lane to reduce foundation offset from 20 to 18 feet (4-0)
• Approved waiver for 26 Strobus Lane to allow a sieve test in lieu of percolation tests (4-0)
• Approved waiver for 26 Strobus Lane to allow less than 12 inches between tank piping and groundwater (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including July 18 and August 15 meeting minutes and FY2024 YTD Budget Report (5-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss the MBTA station closure and renovation plan, construction at Mindess School, and approve annual re-appointments of various town officials.

• Discuss MBTA Station Closure and Renovation Plan
• Review Construction Project at Mindess School
• Approve Annual Re-Appointments for Town Officials

The Select Board approved the reappointment of several members to town commissions and trusts. The Board also voted to allow specific work hours for the Mindess School project over the coming weekend.

• Approved work at Mindess School for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm (5-0-0)
• Approved reappointments for Alan Galiwango and David Rosenblum to Affordable Housing Trust (5-0-0)
• Approved reappointments for Owen Ackerman and Preston Crow to Conservation Commission (5-0-0)
• Approved reappointments for Stuart Siegel, Ryan Sullivan, and Anton Tikhomirov to Assoc. Zoning Board of Appeals (5-0-0)
• Approved reappointments for Claudia Bennett and Brandi Kinsman to BAA Sub-Committee (5-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will discuss the installation of solar on town parking lots and the status of a proposed tree bylaw. The meeting includes an executive session regarding a strategy for litigation related to an Open Meeting Law complaint.

• Solar on Town Parking Lots discussion
• Status of the proposed Tree Bylaw
• Energize Ashland Report
• Sustainability Coordinator’s Report
• Executive session regarding Open Meeting Law Complaint filed by Steve Morgan

The committee approved the minutes from August 29. Members coordinated a presentation for the September 28 planning board meeting regarding local tree bylaws and scheduled the first Energize Ashland meeting for September 30.

• Approved Minutes for August 29th
• Scheduled first Energize Ashland meeting for 9/30
• Established a plan for consistent responses to sustainability email inquiries
• Accepted the resignation of member Amol Rane

Keefe Technical School Committee

The District School Committee will review updates regarding the school opening, the District Improvement Plan, and the Career and Technical Initiative (CTI) Grant. The committee also plans to address school committee vacancies and elect a new Secretary.

• Review of CTI (Career and Technical Initiative) Grant
• Discussion of District Improvement Plan
• Election of Secretary to the School Committee
• Non-Salary Financial Expenditure Report
• Admissions Policy Review

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss the development of a new Tree Bylaw with the Sustainability Committee. The board will also reopen a public hearing for 9-49 Homer Avenue, though the applicant has requested a continuance to September 14, 2023.

• Discussion with Sustainability Committee regarding development of new Tree Bylaw
• Public Hearing for 9-49 Homer Avenue Site Plan and Special Permit Application (requested continuance)
• Report on upcoming Sept 14 meeting with Select Board regarding MBTA Communities
• Planning Office updates including Whitmore Estates, 100-130 Chestnut Street, and 399 Union Street

The Planning Board voted to continue a site plan and special permit hearing for 9-49 Homer Ave. The board also discussed the development of a new tree bylaw with the Sustainability Committee.

• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave. site plan and special permit hearing to September 28, 2023 (4-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee is meeting to hold a discussion with the Planning Board. The focus of the meeting is the development of a new Tree Bylaw.

• Discussion with Planning Board regarding a new Tree Bylaw

The Sustainability Committee held a joint meeting with the Planning Board to discuss the goals and scope of a proposed tree bylaw. The committee decided the bylaw would always cover public space and agreed to use a list of other local bylaws as a starting point for further discussion.

• Decided tree bylaw would always cover public space
• Agreed to use a list of other local tree bylaws as a starting point for discussion

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will meet to discuss and vote on the appropriation of funding for facilities rental. The meeting also includes a period for public comment.

• Vote to appropriate funding for facilities rental

Design Review Committee

The Design Review Committee is meeting to discuss proposed bylaw changes regarding site plan reviews and design triggers. The committee will also review updates on signage, scenic roads, and planting guidelines.

• Discussion of parking lot bylaws and minimum parking space requirements
• Review of proposed changes to design review triggers (section 9.6)
• Review of site plan review application requirements (section 9.4)
• Discussion of proposed guideline changes for planting and parking
• Updates on signage, scenic roads, and plate glass window stanchions

The committee approved the meeting minutes from July 20, July 27, August 1, August 3, and August 8, 2023. Members briefly discussed the types of documents and rendering accuracy required for project reviews. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved 7/20/23 Meeting Minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved 7/27/23 Meeting Minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved 8/1/23 Meeting Minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved 8/3/23 Meeting Minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved 8/8/23 Meeting Minutes (4-0-0)

Select Board

The Ashland Select Board will consider a contract with T-Mobile Northeast LLC for the Cedar Street Water Tank and review several annual re-appointments. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding pole installation on Ponderosa Road and updates on the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan.

• Vote to accept and sign Cell Tower Contract with T-Mobile Northeast LLC
• Public Hearing for the Grant of Location to install one pole and one anchor guy on Ponderosa Road
• Request to spend up to $5,000.00 from the Selectmen’s Gift Account for the Nyanza Memorial
• Acceptance of FY2024 Training Grant in the amount of $23,703.39
• Review and approval of annual re-appointments for various town committees

The Select Board approved a grant of location for a utility pole on Ponderosa Road and authorized a 20-year cell tower lease for the Cedar Street water tank. The Board also reviewed the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and noted the results of a special election regarding Civil Service.

• Approved grant of location to install one pole and one anchor guy on Ponderosa Road (5-0-0)
• Authorized Chair to sign cell tower contract with T-Mobile Northeast LLC for Cedar Street water tank (4-0-1)

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will meet to discuss the FY24 budget and address roof leaks using the facilities budget. The board will also review policies regarding unaccompanied minors and the cleaning service.

• FY24 Budget
• Roof leaks and facilities budget
• Policy on unaccompanied minors
• Cleaning service
• Fall Friends Auction fundraising

The Board approved the July meeting minutes. The Library Director reported the purchase of 15 new computers using town technology funds and the addition of a morning cleaning service starting in September. Children's Director Lois McAuliffe announced her retirement for January 2024.

• Approved July minutes with two grammatical edits

Board of Health

The Board of Health will conduct reorganization and assign committee members. The Health Director will provide updates on several housing cases, mosquito control spraying, and the 3-year contract for the Howe Street former landfill.

• Reorganization of the Board and member committee assignments
• Housing case updates for Chestnut Place Apartments and 137 Pond Street
• Update on 3-Year Contract for Howe Street Former Landfill, 102 Howe Street
• Central Mass Mosquito Control Project spray schedule update
• Review of FY2024 YTD Budget Report

The Board of Health voted to reorganize its leadership positions. The Board also approved the consent agenda, which included the July 12, 2023, meeting minutes and the FY2024 year-to-date budget report.

• Appointed Ron Etskovitz as Chair (5-0)
• Appointed Ed Burman as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Appointed David Kinsman as Clerk (5-0)
• Approved July 12, 2023, draft meeting minutes and FY2024 YTD Budget Report (4-0)

Mindess School Building Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss construction, permitting, and design updates for the Mindess School project. The session includes reviews of budget and MSBA updates and the approval of invoices.

• Construction Change Request CR 162 FB144 for added trail and landscaping at ledge outcropping
• Approval of invoices
• Budget and MSBA updates
• Permitting and general design updates
• Approval of July 18, 2023 meeting minutes

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to receive updates on several environmental initiatives. The body will discuss solar installations on town parking lots, the Tree By Law, and the Energize Ashland program.

• Solar on Town Parking Lots update
• Tree By Law and Planning Committee meeting update
• Energize Ashland update

The committee approved the minutes from May 9th. Members discussed municipal solar canopy ideas and the progress of the tree bylaw, which was moved to an August 24th planning board meeting.

• Approved May 9th meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding site plan and special permit applications for 9-49 Homer Avenue and 10-60 Main Street. The board will also discuss a withdrawal request for the 12-16 Union Street subdivision plan.

• Public hearing for 9-49 Homer Avenue site plan and special permit application
• Withdrawal request for 12-16 Union Street definitive subdivision plan
• Public hearing for 10-60 Main Street renovation including 188 apartment units and 26,000 sq. ft. of commercial space (requested continuance to Sept 14)
• Discussion with Sustainability Committee regarding a new Tree Bylaw
• Discussion regarding MBTA Communities meeting with Select Board

The Planning Board continued public hearings for two projects and approved the withdrawal of a subdivision application. The board also discussed construction concerns for 9-49 Homer Ave. and extended the application deadline for an associate member.

• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave. hearing to August 24, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Approved withdrawal without prejudice for 12-16 Union St. Definitive Subdivision (5-0-0)
• Continued 10-60 Main St. Special Permit and Site Plan Review to September 14, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Extended Associate Member application deadline to August 31, 2023
• Accepted May 25, 2023 minutes (5-0-0)
• Accepted June 8, 2023 minutes, as amended (5-0-0)

Design Review Committee

The Design Review Committee will hold a discussion with the Planning Board regarding the 9-49 Homer Ave. project. No other specific items are listed for action on this agenda.

• Discussion with Planning Board regarding 9-49 Homer Ave. Project

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee is holding a combined meeting with the Planning Board. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss a proposed Tree By Law.

• Discussion of proposed Tree By Law

The Sustainability Committee held a joint meeting with the Planning Board to discuss the tree bylaw. Members proposed moving the conversation to the next meeting and potentially pushing the bylaw to the Spring town meeting. No formal votes were recorded.

• Proposed moving tree bylaw conversation to the next meeting
• Suggested a working retreat to focus on the bylaw
• Discussed pushing the bylaw to the Spring town meeting
• Planning board agreed to send questions regarding the bylaw to the Sustainability Committee
• Peter Matchak to create a memo summarizing issue points and challenges of a tree bylaw

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The committee will discuss appointing a representative to the Community Preservation Committee. Members will also plan for a Farmers' Market table and a Town Forest/DCR event. The meeting includes updates on several local trails and conservation initiatives.

• Appointment of representative to Community Preservation Committee
• Planning for Farmers' Market table on August 26
• Town Forest/DCR Event on October 21
• Updates on Upper Charles Trail and Bay Circuit Trail
• Updates on Stormwater Management and Conservation Restriction Working Group

The committee appointed a new representative to the Community Preservation Committee and approved the February 2023 meeting minutes. Members also scheduled a Warren Woods Walk for October 15 and agreed to publicize a Town Forest event.

• Approved February 22, 2023 minutes (5-0-1)
• Appointed Greg Wands as representative to the Community Preservation Committee (6-0-0)
• Scheduled Warren Woods Walk for October 15 from 1 to 3 p.m.
• Decided by consensus to publicize the October 21 DCR/Town Forest Event via email blast

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee is meeting to review expense reports and discuss the ATF DCR Program. Members will also discuss ideas for the Northwest area and scout volunteer work. Subcommittee leads will provide updates on forestry, trails, education, and land acquisition.

• ATF DCR Program
• Northwest area ideas
• Scout volunteer work
• NOI
• Land Acquisition Recommendations

Design Review Committee

The Design Review Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss proposed changes to design review triggers, site plan review requirements, planting guidelines, and parking regulations.

• Discussion of proposed bylaw changes to design review triggers
• Review of site plan review application requirements
• Presentation of new planting guideline fact sheets

The committee approved the minutes from the June 15 meeting. A motion was passed for Kevin Mowatt to send out Report #2 regarding 9-49 Homer Avenue. No other substantive business or discussions occurred.

• Approved June 15 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved motion for Kevin Mowatt to send Report #2 for 9-49 Homer Avenue (Unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss updates on the Hall House Kiosk project and walking tours. The body will also discuss the Village Cemetery and next steps for the Local Historic District.

• Final update on the Hall House Kiosk project
• Discussion on the Village Cemetery
• Next steps for the Local Historic District
• Walking tours update

The Commission approved the July 17, 2023, meeting minutes. Members discussed the Hall house kiosk, the Village Cemetery working group, and outreach for the Historic District, including a planned scavenger hunt for Ashland Day.

• Approved July 17, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Decided to form a working group for the Village Cemetery
• Approved the creation of a historic scavenger hunt for Ashland Day
• Approved continued work on QR codes and the commission website
• Set next meeting date for September 12, 2023
• Adjourned meeting at 7:53 pm (4-0)

Ashland Cultural Council

The Ashland Cultural Council is meeting to review updates to the FY24 Grant Guidelines and approve local guidelines and priorities due August 31, 2023. The body will also receive updates on the FY21 budget and several upcoming community events.

• Approval of Local Guidelines and Priorities for the FY24 Grant Cycle
• Budget allotment and artist selection deadlines for the Starbuck’s Mural
• FY21 budget update including year-to-date expenses and remaining funds
• Updates on the Ashland Farmer’s Market and Dragonfly Festival 2024
• Review of the Celebrate Ashland HCA Event

Design Review Committee

The committee will continue its review of a petition by WJK Homer LLC for a three-story mixed-use development. The proposal includes 29 rental apartments and approximately 9,400 square feet of ground-floor retail space.

• Design Review of 9-49 Homer Avenue (continued from June 15, 2023)
• Proposed development of 29 rental units and 9,400 sq. ft. of retail space
• Discussion of parking lot bylaws and minimum parking space triggers
• Discussion of proposed bylaw changes regarding design review triggers and site plan requirements
• Discussion of proposed guideline changes for planting and parking

The committee held a continued hearing for a proposed three-story mixed-use building featuring 29 rental units and 9,400 sq. ft. of retail space. No final decision was made; the committee requested additional renderings and samples from the applicant before proceeding.

• Requested rendering of paver surface
• Requested rendering of pocket park seating
• Requested shadow renderings
• Requested paver sample
• Closed the hearing on 9-49 Homer Avenue (Unanimous)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss a dog park application and a restriction working group. The body will also review project updates and new business.

• Dog Park Application
• Restriction working group

The Community Preservation Committee approved additional funding for dog park equipment and accepted a Select Board request to address property restrictions. The committee also established reporting requirements for a Fire Department antique truck restoration grant.

• Approved $15k for dog park storage shed and agility equipment (5-0-0)
• Accepted Select Board request to address restrictions on properties purchased with CPA Funds (5-0-0)
• Approved April 4, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved June 6, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-0)

Design Review Committee

The Design Review Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss a draft letter for the Planning Board concerning the property at 9-49 Homer Ave. No other specific items are listed for decision or discussion on this agenda.

• Discussion of draft Letter for the PB regarding 9-49 Homer Ave.

The Committee voted to send a letter to the Planning Board outlining concerns about the 9-49 Homer Avenue project, specifically regarding downtown character and environmental impacts. The board also approved the May 25, 2023, meeting minutes.

• Approved letter to Planning Board regarding 9-49 Homer Ave concerns (6-0-0)
• Approved May 25, 2023 minutes (6-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to receive updates on town planning, tree bylaws, and the Energize Ashland program. The body will also discuss the installation of solar on town parking lots.

• Discussion on solar on town parking lots
• Update on Tree By Law
• Update on Energize Ashland
• Update from Chuck Lidz regarding Planning

The committee discussed the feasibility of a tree bylaw and the impact of the opt-in stretch code on project costs. Members also reviewed the town's accumulation of solar credits and the potential for solar canopies on municipal parking lots. No formal votes were taken.

• Proposed meeting with Town Planner to discuss tree bylaw feasibility
• Proposed using an example project to analyze costs of opt-in stretch code
• Proposed sending Energize Ashland volunteer sign-ups via Town Manager newsletter
• Proposed inviting the Town accounting office to a future meeting to discuss solar credit usage

Design Review Committee

The committee will review correspondence regarding 501 Pond Street and continue a hearing for 9-49 Homer Ave. The meeting also includes an AFM report on event tabling and survey editing.

• Correspondence regarding 501 Pond Street
• Continued hearing for 9-49 Homer Ave

The committee voted unanimously to continue the hearing for 9-49 Homer Ave until August 3. Members discussed the Chapter 125 demolition delay bylaw and planned to draft a letter regarding the property.

• Continued hearing for 9-49 Homer Ave to August 3 (unanimous)

School Committee

The School Committee will receive reports on the district's strategic plan, curriculum, and financial and facilities needs. The body will also discuss goals for the committee and the superintendent.

• Strategic Plan presentation by Prem Aithal
• Economic, financial, and facilities update regarding future capital needs and budget concerns
• Ashland Youth Baseball proposals for the Warren School fence and AMS dugout
• Communication, branding, and logo update
• Curriculum, instruction, and assessment report and goals

Design Review Committee

The Design Review Committee will address a request from WJK Homer LLC to postpone the review of a proposed three-story mixed-use building. The committee will also discuss potential changes to parking lot bylaws and design review triggers.

• Continuance request for 9-49 Homer Avenue development
• Proposed 29-unit apartment building with 9,400 sq. ft. of retail space
• Discussion of parking lot bylaw and design changes
• Review of proposed changes to site plan review application requirements

The committee voted unanimously to draft a letter to the Planning Board following public testimony regarding the 9-49 Homer Ave project. The hearing for 9-49 Homer Ave was continued until August 3.

• Approved motion to draft letter to Planning Board regarding 9-49 Homer Ave (Unanimous)
• Continued hearing for 9-49 Homer Ave until August 3
• Adjourned meeting at 8:30pm (Unanimous)

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The group is meeting to discuss the administration of the Comprehensive Plan project. Key topics include steering committee membership policies and the coordination of information with the project consultant.

• Attendance requirements and selection policy for Steering Committee members
• Information exchange between the Town and the Comprehensive Plan Consultant
• Website placement for Steering Committee agendas and minutes
• Approval of meeting minutes from April 7, May 2, May 9, June 13, and June 29, 2023
• Policy for Steering Committee members elected to the Planning Board or Select Board

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee is meeting to address committee structure, including member reappointments and the election of officers. The body will also review budget reports and discuss objectives for forestry, trails, education, and land acquisition subcommittees.

• Reappointment of Brian M and Brian F (Brian M will not seek reappointment)
• Discussion on committee size (five vs seven members)
• Winter Street Entry / Exit
• NEMBA and SVT membership renewals
• Notice of Intent (NOI) for operations and maintenance grant for consultant

The committee approved donations to NEMBA and SVT and approved the June 14, 2023, meeting minutes. Members reached a consensus to reduce the committee to five voting members via attrition and agreed to brush back plants at the Winter Street entry to improve sight lines.

• Approved June 14, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved donations to NEMBA and SVT (7-0-0)
• Consensus reached to reduce voting membership to five via attrition
• Consensus reached to brush back plants at Winter Street entry to improve sight lines
• Decided on forest clean-up projects for Boy Scouts

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will review next steps for the Tree By Law and plan the Energize Ashland event. The meeting also includes a recap of a previous session with the Planning Board and an update from the Sustainability Manager.

• Tree By Law next steps
• Energize Ashland event planning
• Recap of meeting with Planning Board
• Sustainability Manager update

The committee assigned leads to coordinate with the Planning Board on the Tree Bylaw and the opt-in stretch code. The Sustainability Manager reported receiving an MVP 2.0 pilot grant and Metro West technical assistance funding for school buses.

• Assigned Matt Marshquist to coordinate schedules and agendas with the Planning Board
• Assigned Chuck Lidz to lead the opt-in stretch code effort and investigate cost implications
• Assigned Margy Gassel to summarize Tree Bylaw changes and open questions for the Planning Board
• Sustainability Manager reported receipt of MVP 2.0 pilot grant for community engagement
• Sustainability Manager reported receipt of Metro West technical assistance funding for school buses

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will meet to discuss the FY24 budget and patron-related issues. The agenda includes a review of staff training and the installation of a panic button.

• FY24 Budget
• Panic Button
• CPC Grant
• Staff Training for patron issues
• Summer Reading for Children/Families

The Board approved the May meeting minutes and addressed staff harassment by issuing an indefinite trespass notice to a patron. Director Meena Jain reported on roof leaks and plans to seek a grant for painting the upstairs area. The Board also discussed First Amendment audit training for municipal offices.

• Approved May minutes with two grammatical edits
• Issued indefinite trespass notice to patron harassing staff

Board of Health

The Board of Health will conduct a meeting via Zoom to address several housing cases, including issues at Chestnut Place Apartments and 137 Pond Street. The agenda also includes updates on vaccination clinics, mosquito control spraying, and the Howe Street former landfill contract.

• Housing cases regarding unsanitary conditions and pool permits at Chestnut Place Apartments
• Update on the 3-year contract for the Howe Street former landfill at 102 Howe Street
• Updates on childhood vaccination clinics and a part-time public health nurse position
• Review of FY2024 YTD Budget Report
• Reappointment of Burial Agents

The Board approved the consent agenda, including the yearly reappointment of burial agents. Members voted to table the reorganization of the Board and committee assignments. The Board also reviewed ongoing sanitary issues and pool permit compliance at Chestnut Place Apartments.

• Approved consent agenda including reappointment of burial agents (4-0-0)
• Approved June 20, 2023 draft meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Tabled reorganization of the Board of Health (4-0-0)
• Tabled Board Member Committee Assignments
• Approved adjournment of meeting (4-0-0)

Mindess School Building Committee

The committee will review construction schedules, general design, and budget updates. Members will discuss the discovery of additional asbestos during demolition and consider a change request for marker boards.

• Demolition update regarding additional asbestos found
• Construction Change Request CR 161 for additional marker boards
• Approval of invoices
• Budget and MSBA updates
• Approval of June 13, 2023 meeting minutes

Keefe Technical School Committee

The committee will discuss approving minutes, financial matters including a budget transfer, and updates on programs and hiring.

• Budget Transfer
• Program License Update
• Hiring Update

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss updates regarding the Local Historic District and several specific sites. The body will review status updates for the Hall House Kiosk/Sign, the Valentine Estate, and the Fire Station.

• Local Historic District update
• Hall House Kiosk/Sign final updates
• Cemetery behind the Federated Church
• Valentine Estate and Fire Station updates
• Discussion of 35-37 and 47-49 Homer Ave

The commission approved the June 6, 2023, meeting minutes. Members discussed the next steps for establishing a local historic district, including sending letters to property owners and planning public forums. The board also reviewed the ongoing renovation of the Valentine barn.

• Approved June 6, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to appoint members to safety, health and wellness, and negotiation sub-committees. The body will also review grant and warrant approvals and hear presentations from school principals and department directors.

• Appointment of Safety Sub-Committee members
• Appointment of Health and Wellness Sub-Committee members
• Appointment of Negotiation Sub-Committee members
• Grant and warrant approvals
• Presentations from Mindess, AHS, and Warren principals

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a joint meeting with the Sustainability Committee and review several planning topics including MBTA Communities and housing moratoriums. Several subdivision and site plan projects were continued to August 10, 2023.

• Joint meeting with Sustainability Committee
• Reinstatement Review of Kevin Mowatt, Design Review Committee
• 16-18 Union Street Definitive Subdivision Plan (continued to August 10)
• 9-49 Homer Avenue Site Plan and Special Permit (continued to August 10)
• 10-60 Main Street Special Permit and Site Plan Review (continued to August 10)

The Planning Board voted to reinstate Kevin Mowatt to the Design Review Committee for a three-year term. Members also discussed collaborating with the Sustainability Committee on a proposed Tree Bylaw and Opt-in Energy Codes. Several site plan reviews were continued to the August 10 meeting.

• Reinstated Kevin Mowatt to the Design Review Committee for a three-year term (4-0-0)
• Approved May 11, 2023, meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Continued 16-18 Union St. Definitive Subdivision Plan to August 10, 2023
• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave. Site Plan and Special Permit to August 10, 2023
• Continued 10-60 Main St. Special Permit and Site Plan Review to August 10, 2023

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee is meeting jointly with the Planning Board. The body will discuss planned priorities for the Sustainability Committee and how the two boards will coordinate efforts.

• Discussion on Sustainability Committee planned priorities
• Coordination of efforts between Planning Board and Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee and Planning Board held a joint meeting to coordinate goals for the Net Zero plan, tree protection bylaw, and Opt-in stretch code. The committees agreed to establish regular updates and a process for exchanging summaries and comments on the tree bylaw.

• Agreed to establish regular updates between Sustainability and Planning boards
• Agreed that Sustainability Committee will send an executive summary on the tree bylaw for Planning Board comment

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk's Office is conducting a computer program test for ballots and tabulating equipment. This testing is in preparation for the Special Town Election scheduled for July 26, 2023.

• Testing of voting equipment for July 26, 2023 Special Town Election

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a joint meeting with the Select Board. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss appointing a new member to the Board of Health.

• Joint meeting with Select Board regarding Board of Health member appointment

The Board of Health and Select Board held a joint meeting to fill a vacancy created by a previous member's resignation. After hearing from three candidates, the boards voted to appoint a former member to serve the remaining one year of the term.

• Appointed Ron Etskovitz as a member of the Board of Health until the next election (9-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct public hearings regarding the Verizon New England, Inc. cable license renewal and a location grant for a stub pole on High Street. The meeting also includes a joint session with the Board of Health to discuss a board member appointment.

• Public Hearing: Verizon New England, Inc. Cable License Renewal
• Public Hearing: Grant of Location for one stub pole and anchor guy on High Street
• Acceptance of $30,000.00 grant from MA Department of Mental Health Jail Diversion Program
• Acceptance of $250.00 donation from Sasa Travel Services
• Appointment of Michael Duca to the Roadway Traffic Safety Committee

The Select Board approved a five-year cable television license renewal with Verizon New England, Inc. The board also approved a grant of location for a stub pole on High Street and processed several consent agenda items.

• Approved Verizon New England, Inc. Cable Television License Renewal through July 11, 2028 (5-0-0)
• Approved Eversource request to install one stub pole and anchor guide on High Street (5-0-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda (5-0-0), excluding June 28, 2023 minutes
• Appointed Samantha Blanchette and Gina Moscillo as Public Safety Dispatchers
• Appointed Michael Duca to the Roadway Traffic Safety Committee
• Accepted $250 donation from Sasa Travel Services for DEI Event
• Accepted $30,000 grant from MA Department of Mental Health Jail Diversion Program
• Declared dishwasher, sinks, and counters at the Community Center as surplus

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss potential litigation.

• Review of Executive Session Meeting Minutes from June 7, 2023

The Select Board voted unanimously not to appeal a decision by the Attorney General regarding the town's building moratorium. The decision followed a discussion on the legal risks, costs, and political implications of an appeal. The board also approved the executive session minutes from June 7, 2023.

• Voted not to appeal the Attorney General's decision on the building moratorium (5-0-0)
• Approved Executive Session Meeting Minutes from June 7, 2023 (5-0-0)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss updates regarding the Local Historic District and several specific sites. The agenda includes reviews of the Hall House Kiosk/Sign, the Valentine Estate, and the Fire Station.

• Local Historic District update
• Hall House Kiosk/Sign final updates
• Cemetery behind the Federated Church
• Valentine Estate and Fire Station updates
• Discussion of 35-37 and 47-49 Homer Ave

Ashland Cultural Council

The Ashland Cultural Council will discuss updates for upcoming events including the Farmer's Market and Ashland Day. The body will also review the FY21 budget and discuss artist selection and budget allotments for the Starbuck's Mural and a new logo.

• Budget allotment and artist selection for Starbuck's Mural
• Budget and artist discussion for a new logo
• FY21 CC Budget review
• Upcoming grant cycle discussion
• Updates on Ashland Farmer's Market and Dragonfly Festival

The council approved the minutes from the June 5, 2023 meeting. Members discussed upcoming events, including a potential 2024 Starbucks mural project and the grant cycle kickoff. The Ashland Day event at Hopkinton Center for the Arts was canceled for this year.

• Approved June 5, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Design Review Committee

The committee will discuss proposed changes to parking lot bylaws and minimum parking space requirements. Members will also review potential updates to design review triggers, site plan application requirements, and planting guidelines.

• Discussion of parking lot bylaws and minimum parking spaces for trigger
• Review of proposed changes to design review triggers (section 9.6)
• Review of site plan review application requirements (section 9.4)
• Discussion of proposed guideline changes regarding planting and parking
• Reports on signage, scenic roads, and plate glass windows

The committee finalized a survey regarding Farmers' Market booths and signage. Members discussed term limits and coordination with the Planning Board. No other formal votes or regulatory decisions were recorded.

• Finalized survey for Farmers' Market booth
• Discussed member term limits
• Discussed Planning Board-DRC coordination

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review subdivision plans for Whittemore Estates and site plan applications for Homer Avenue. Both major items have received requests from applicants to postpone their hearings until July 27, 2023.

• Continuance request for 16 Union Street definitive subdivision plan
• Continuance request for 9-49 Homer Avenue site plan and special permit application
• Review of draft decision and potential vote on 50 Megunko Road
• Discussion regarding the Associate Planning Board Member position
• Updates on housing moratorium and parking memo

The Planning Board approved a demand letter regarding construction deficiencies at the Whittemore Estates subdivision, which may lead to the town pursuing a $350,000 security bond. The board also approved a site plan modification for 50 Megunko Rd. and continued several other public hearings.

• Approved notice of deficiencies for Whittemore Estates (5-0-0)
• Approved Certificate of Approval Site Plan Modification for 50 Megunko Rd. (5-0-0)
• Continued 16 Union St. Definitive Subdivision Plan hearing to August 10, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave Site Plan and Special Permit hearing to August 10, 2023 (5-0-0)

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group is meeting to review price proposals from consultants. This is the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Review of consultant price proposals

Select Board

The Select Board is holding a retreat to discuss projects, goals, and the use of State and Federal funds for fiscal year 2024. The agenda also includes notifications regarding two personnel appointments within the town administration.

• Discussion of FY24 State and Federal fund usage
• Appointment of Rebecca Navarro as Civil Engineer for DPW
• Appointment of Sofia Chrisafideis as Conservation Assistant

The Select Board approved the consent agenda and determined the allocation of $8 million in funding for various town projects through 2026. The Board also reviewed and revised the proposed FY2024 project list and goals, agreeing to present the list at the next televised meeting.

• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Allocated $3.5M for Downtown Project
• Allocated $2M for Pedestrian & Bike Safety/Multimodal Path
• Allocated $1.4M for Pedestrian Safety/Sidewalks
• Allocated $500k for Warren Barn
• Allocated $450k for Town Hall Repairs
• Allocated $150k for Traffic Calming Measures

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss and vote on year end transfers for fiscal year 2023. The committee will also hold elections for fiscal year 2024 officers.

• Vote on fiscal year 2023 year end transfers
• Fiscal year 2024 Officer Elections

The Committee approved a $309,000 transfer from the Reserve Fund to the Snow & Ice account. It also approved $221,000 in departmental transfers to cover salary increases and operational costs. Additionally, the Committee held elections for its FY24 leadership positions.

• Approved $309,000 transfer from Reserve Fund to Snow & Ice account (5-0)
• Approved $221,000 in departmental transfers (5-0)
• Approved April 11, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Elected Ryan Turncliff as Clerk (5-0)
• Elected Jonathan Moore as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Elected Scott Warnetski as Chair (5-0)

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority will meet to approve the annual plan and review payables for May and June 2023. The board will also discuss specific facility projects including refrigerator replacements, a generator, and storm doors.

• Approval of annual plan
• Discussion of refrigerator replacement project
• Discussion of generator project
• Discussion of storm doors project
• Approval of May-June 2023 payables

Metrowest Regional Transit Authority

The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will meet to discuss and approve the final budget for fiscal year 2024. The board will also consider an A&E contract and conduct board reorganization for FY24.

• Discussion and approval of FY24 Final Budget
• Discussion and approval of A&E Contract
• Board Reorganization FY24

Ashland Democratic Town Committee

The Ashland Democratic Town Committee is holding a virtual caucus to elect delegates and alternates. The body will select 10 delegates and 4 alternates to attend the 2023 Massachusetts Democratic State Convention.

• Election of 10 Delegates to the 2023 Massachusetts Democratic State Convention
• Election of 4 Alternates to the 2023 Massachusetts Democratic State Convention

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss the Adopt a Drain program and review the Ashland Parking Lot and Street Design Report. The meeting also includes updates on the MS4 Program and a discussion regarding the Farmer's Market.

• Review of Ashland Parking Lot and Street Design Report
• Discussion of Adopt a Drain program and SWAC involvement
• MS4 Program updates on catch basin cleaning and outfall screening
• Farmer's Market discussion
• Earth Day overview

The committee approved the minutes from the March 15, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the MS4 Program's catch basin cleaning and outfall screening, as well as potential resident engagement for an Adopt a Drain program.

• Approved March 15, 2023 draft minutes as amended (4-0-0)
• Agreed to staff SWAC tent at July 29 Farmers Market

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct interviews with JM Goldson and VHB regarding the town's Comprehensive Plan. The board will also discuss these firm interviews during the meeting.

• Firm interview: JM Goldson
• Firm interview: VHB
• Discussion of firm interviews

The Select Board and Planning Board interviewed two firms for the Comprehensive Plan Consultant, with a preference vote favoring JM Goldson. The Select Board also approved several financial transfers, a transit contract extension, and the posting of a special election warrant.

• Preference vote for Comprehensive Plan Consultant favored JM Goldson
• Approved $220,000 in year-end transfers from Salary Contingency to various town accounts (5-0)
• Approved one-year contract extension with MetroWest Regional Transit Authority through June 30, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved closing, signing, and posting the Special Town Election Warrant for July 26, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved $12,950 in grants and rental assistance for Bella Kitchen and Cabinetry, Inc.
• Approved $10,000 grant for LedgenDairy Creation, LLC dba Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream

Select Board

The Ashland Select Board will meet to discuss a contract extension with MetroWest Regional Transit Authority and vote to close the July 26, 2023, Special Town Election Warrant. The board will also consider various economic development grants and personnel appointments.

• Vote on Year End Transfers
• Contract extension for MetroWest Regional Transit Authority through June 30, 2024
• $12,950.00 grant and rental assistance for Bella Kitchen and Cabinetry, Inc.
• $26,000.00 in grants and interest-free loans for Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream
• One-Day License for 'Fight Night' at 30 Main Street on June 24, 2023

The Select Board approved $220,000 in year-end budget transfers and extended a contract with the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority. The Board also authorized a special town election for July 26, 2023, and approved several small business grants and a one-day liquor license.

• Approved $220,000 in year-end budget transfers from Salary Contingency to various town accounts (5-0)
• Approved one-year contract extension with MetroWest Regional Transit Authority through June 30, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved closing, signing, and posting the Special Town Election Warrant for July 26, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved $12,950 grant to Bella Kitchen and Cabinetry, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved $26,000 in grants and a loan to LedgenDairy Creation, LLC (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Upper Kuts (5-0)
• Tabled discussion on kiosk maintenance for July 12, 2023

Upper Charles River Trail Committee

The committee will receive updates on parcels needed for the downtown and off-road branches of the trail. Members will also discuss the Comprehensive Plan Committee and outreach plans for the School Committee.

• Update on parcels for the downtown branch of the trail
• Update on parcels for the off-road branch of the trail
• Update on the Comprehensive Plan Committee meeting
• Outreach plan for the School Committee

The committee approved a motion to edit and send a memo to the Select Board requesting that the Upper Charles River Trail be designated as a Town Priority project. Members discussed a two-phase approach to the trail, focusing first on the section from Sherborn to the Ashland Train Station. A small subgroup was also authorized to meet offline to pool data and ideas.

• Approved motion to edit and send memo to Select Board to promote AUCT as a Town Priority project (6-0-0)
• Agreed to a straight-across crossing of the Dike trail at 126
• Approved motion for Doug, Tony, and Judy to hold an offline meeting to pool data and ideas (6-0-0)
• Approved previous meeting minutes as edited (6-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to review priorities with Rob Scherer and receive an update from the Sustainability Manager. The body will also discuss planning for the Energize Ashland event.

• Review of priorities with Rob Scherer
• Sustainability Manager update
• Energize Ashland event planning

The committee approved the June 6 meeting minutes and an email regarding Energize Ashland. Members discussed concerns from developers regarding the opt-in stretch code and reviewed town goals for the coming year with Select Board Chair Rob Scherer.

• Approved minutes of June 6 meeting
• Approved email about Energize Ashland

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review a grease trap waiver request for Starbucks at 399 Union Street. The meeting includes updates on housing cases at Chestnut Place Apartments, the Howe Street former landfill contract, and the Waushakum Pond algal bloom.

• External grease trap waiver request for Starbucks at 399 Union Street
• $20,000 Metrowest Health Foundation grant for childhood vaccine clinic
• Housing case updates for Chestnut Place Apartments at 137 Pond Street
• Update on 3-year contract for Howe Street former landfill at 102 Howe Street
• Update on Remote Area Medical (RAM) Clinic scheduled for August 12 & 13, 2023

The Board approved a waiver for a Starbucks location to use an internal grease interceptor instead of an external one, provided food preparation remains minimal. The Board also approved the consent agenda and tabled discussions on committee assignments.

• Approved waiver for external grease interceptor at 399 Union Street (3-0)
• Approved consent agenda including June 6, 2023 minutes and FY2023 YTD Budget Report (3-0)
• Tabled Board Member Committee Assignments

Design Review Committee

The Design Review Committee will hear a petition from WJK Homer LLC for a special permit and site plan review. The proposal includes a three-story building with 29 rental apartments and approximately 9,400 square feet of ground-floor retail space.

• Design Plan Review and Site Plan Review for 9-49 Homer Avenue
• Proposed development of 29 rental apartment units
• Proposed 9,400 sq. ft. of street-facing retail space
• Proposal includes 65 parking spaces

The Committee voted to continue the design review for 9-49 Homer Avenue to July 20, 2023. The applicant must provide revised drawings, material palettes, and updated renderings to address specific committee requests regarding the building's massing and streetscape.

• Voted to continue project review for 9-49 Homer Avenue to July 20, 2023

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group is meeting to organize consultant interviews and coordinate with the Steering Committee. The group will also review meeting minutes and discuss the policy for posting minutes to the town website.

• Logistics and questions for consultant interviews
• Coordination items for the Steering Committee
• Approval of May 9, 2023 meeting minutes
• Policy for posting minutes to the town website

The group approved a set of interview questions and established the logistics for the Select Board and Planning Board to interview and provisionally select a Comprehensive Plan consultant. The group also coordinated the agenda for the June 15 Steering Committee meeting.

• Approved draft questions for consultant interviews
• Agreed to interview format: 15-minute presentation followed by 45-minute Q&A
• Approved May 9, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-2)
• Agreed to post meeting minutes to the town website per town policy
• Decided to shift the SWOT Exercise later on the Steering Committee agenda
• Agreed that Anna and Brandi will share chairing duties for the Steering Committee meeting

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to discuss administrative updates and review renderings for middle school scoreboards. The body will also consider warrant approvals and the acceptance of gifts and donations.

• Review of Middle School scoreboard renderings
• Warrant approvals
• Acceptance of gifts and donations
• Introduction of Athletic Director Kevin Anderson
• Recognition of retirees

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee is meeting to review end-of-year budget projections and expense reports. The body will also discuss committee membership, including reappointments and the number of members on the committee.

• End of budget year spend and projections
• Winter Street Entry / Exit (tabled item)
• NEMBA Membership expiration
• Notice of Intent (NOI) for operations and maintenance grant for consultant
• Boy Scout projects for three scouts

The Town Forest Committee approved several expense submittals for deer exclosures, a rain garden plant, and a generator. The committee also authorized a purchase of t-posts and re-bar using remaining DPW funds. Several items, including the Winter Street Entry/Exit and NEMBA membership, were tabled.

• Approved May 10, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved expenses for deer exclosures, rain garden plant, and generator totaling $1,336.61 (4-0-0)
• Approved expense for deer exclosures materials and thermostat of $2,449.24 (4-0-0)
• Approved purchase of 10 t-posts and 32 re-bar not to exceed $300.00 (3-0-1)
• Tabled Winter Street Entry/Exit
• Tabled NEMBA Membership until next year

Keefe Technical School Committee

The District School Committee will conduct a reorganization meeting and review several end-of-year reports. The agenda includes discussions on the 2023-2024 school calendar, handbook changes, and superintendent compensation for FY24.

• School Committee reorganization
• Superintendent's compensation for FY24
• Review of 2023-2024 School Calendar
• Review of School Handbook changes
• Budget transfer requests and OPEB Trust transfer

Keefe Technical School Committee

The Superintendent Evaluation Sub-Committee will meet to review annual performance and vote on an overall summative rating. The committee also plans the full committee report.

• Approval of April 3, 2023 meeting minutes
• Vote on Overall Summative Rating for the Superintendent

Mindess School Building Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss construction schedules, general design, and project team updates. Members will review budget and MSBA updates and consider specific construction change requests.

• CR 153: Establish allowance for unforeseen abatement-site utilities
• Approval of invoices
• Report of approved expenditures and change requests
• Approval of May 15, 2023 meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding several development petitions, including a change of use at 50 Megunko Road. Other items on the agenda include an MBTA presentation and updates on the housing moratorium.

• Site modification for 50 Megunko Road to change use from trucking to auto body shop
• Definitive Subdivision Plan for 16 Union Street (requested continuance to July 27, 2023)
• Site Plan and Special Permit application for 9-49 Homer Avenue (requested continuance to June 22, 2023)
• Special Permit and Site Plan Review for 10-60 Main Street (requested continuance to August 10, 2023)
• MBTA presentation from the Planning Department

The Planning Board approved a site modification plan for 50 Megunko Rd. following changes to landscaping and parking. The board also continued several other public hearings and received an update regarding the Attorney General's rejection of the town's building moratorium.

• Approved 50 Megunko Rd. Site Plan Modification (5-0)
• Continued 16 Union St. Definitive Subdivision Plan hearing to August 10, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave Site Plan and Special Permit hearing to June 29, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued 10-60 Main St. Special Permit and Site Plan Review hearing to August 10, 2023 (5-0)
• Accepted March 23, 2023, minutes (5-0-0)
• Accepted April 13, 2023, minutes (5-0-0)
• Accepted July 6, 2022, Retreat and Joint DRC meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Accepted September 14, 2023, Joint Meeting minutes (5-0-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in Executive Session to ratify two labor agreements. The meeting also includes a review of the Executive Session minutes from March 1, 2023.

• Ratification of MOU between Ashland Police Association, MassCop Local 403 and the Town
• Ratification of MOA between Ashland Public Safety Communication Officers Association, MassCop Local 495 and the Town
• Review of March 1, 2023 Executive Session minutes

The Select Board approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ashland Police Association and a Memorandum of Agreement with the Ashland Public Safety Communication Officers Association. These agreements establish new wage scales, shift schedules, and promotional processes.

• Approved MOA with Ashland Public Safety Communication Officers Association (Local 495) (5-0-0)
• Approved MOU with Ashland Police Association (Local 403) (5-0-0)
• Approved March 1, 2023 Executive Session Minutes with name correction (5-0-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss calling a special election for July 26, 2023, which includes a ballot question regarding withdrawing the Ashland Police Department from Civil Service. The board will also address several labor agreements, appointments, and a land lease for a cell tower.

• Call for a Special Election on July 26, 2023, including a ballot question to withdraw Ashland Police Department from Civil Service
• Approval of the Land Lease for the Cell Tower at 20 Ponderosa Road
• Acceptance of a $20,000.00 grant from the Metowest Health Foundation for the nursing program
• Discussion of MOUs/MOAs with Ashland Police Association MassCop Local 403 and Public Safety Communication Officers Association MassCop Local 495
• Discussion of an Open Meeting Law complaint filed by Stephen Morgan on May 17, 2023

The Select Board voted to hold a special election on July 26, 2023, to determine if the town should revoke its 1957 acceptance of Civil Service law for police officers below the rank of Chief. The board also reorganized its leadership and approved a cell tower land lease.

• Elected Robert Scherer as Chair (5-0-0)
• Elected Yolanda Greaves as Vice Chair (5-0-0)
• Elected Joseph Magnani as Clerk (5-0-0)
• Approved special election on July 26, 2023, to revoke Civil Service law (5-0-0)
• Approved early voting hours for July 19, 20, and 26 (5-0-0)
• Approved ballot language for Civil Service law revocation (5-0-0)
• Approved land lease for cell tower at 20 Ponderosa Road (5-0-0)
• Approved response to Open Meeting Law complaint filed by Stephen Morgan (5-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Ashland Sustainability Committee is meeting to review previous minutes, hear updates from the Sustainability Manager, discuss the Comprehensive Plan, and consider a Home Energy Audit Program. They will also seek volunteers for the Energize Ashland group and review action items.

• Citizen participation period
• Review and approval of previous meeting minutes
• Volunteer recruitment for Energize Ashland group
• Sustainability Manager update
• Home Energy Audit Program discussion

The committee approved the minutes from the April 25, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the town's SolSmart Bronze achievement and potential solar development at the quarry. No other substantive votes were recorded.

• Approved April 25, 2023 minutes

Board of Health

The Board of Health will conduct a reorganization, including committee assignments and discussing an open seat. The Health Director will provide updates on vaccination clinics, mosquito control, and housing cases.

• Reorganization of the Board and committee assignments
• Update on Remote Area Medical (RAM) Clinic for August 12 & 13, 2023
• Housing case updates for Chestnut Place Apartments and 137 Pond Street
• Review of FY2023 year-to-date budget report and FY2024 budget
• Cyanobacteria Advisory for Lake Waushakum

The Board of Health presented the Mary Mortensen Award to resident Marie Kane for her advocacy regarding the Nyanza site. The Board also approved the consent agenda, including the May 7, 2023, meeting minutes and budget reports.

• Approved nomination of Marie Kane for the Mary Mortensen Award
• Approved consent agenda including May 7, 2023 minutes and FY2023/FY2024 budget reports (3-0)
• Tabled introduction of David Kinsman
• Tabled reorganization of the Board
• Tabled Board Member Committee Assignments

Community Preservation Committee

The Committee approved a funding application for a new dog park and allocated administrative funds for a library renovation proposal. A project update was provided for Marathon park regarding the removal of road markings.

• Approved Dog Park Committee application with a sunset date of June 30, 2027 (5-0-0)
• Approved $5,000 in admin funds for a proposal to renovate the original portion of the library (5-0-0)

Historical Commission

The commission voted to accept a letter from town counsel regarding an open meeting violation complaint. Members discussed oversight of the historic fire station façade and potential kiosk locations for the Hall house and local cemetery.

• Approved meeting minutes from 04/11/2023 (unanimous)
• Accepted town counsel's explanation regarding open meeting violation complaint (unanimous)
• Appointed Joan Gonfrade to represent the commission at the select board meeting

Ashland Cultural Council

The council approved the minutes from the May 10, 2023, meeting. Members discussed upcoming events including the Ashland Farmer's Market and a Grantee's Reception on July 28. The council also reviewed the Starbucks Mural project and current membership vacancies.

• Approved May 10, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Metrowest Veterans Services District

The Board of Directors of the MetroWest Veterans' Services District will hold a routine meeting via Zoom. The agenda includes public comments, approval of previous meeting minutes, and updates on activities, staffing, and the director's report. No major decisions or proposals are listed.

• Review and approve minutes from March 6, 2022
• Public comments on veteran services
• Activities and staffing updates
• Director's update

Design Review Committee

The Design Review Committee will consider two development petitions. The first involves a site plan modification for Mike’s Auto Body, and the second is a proposal for a three-story mixed-use building at 9-49 Homer Avenue.

• Site Plan Review Modification for 50 Megunko Road involving parking reconfiguration, fencing, landscaping, and sidewalk installation
• Special Permit and Design Plan Review for 9-49 Homer Avenue for a three-story building with 29 rental units and 9,400 sq. ft. of retail space
• Proposed 65 parking spaces for the 9-49 Homer Avenue development

The committee reviewed proposed modifications for an auto body shop at 50 Megunko Rd, including landscaping and paving. The committee agreed to forward their recommendations and the owner's agreements to the Planning Board. A project at 9-45 Homer Ave was continued to the next meeting.

• Approved forwarding site plan recommendations for 50 Megunko Rd to the Planning Board
• Approved continuance of 9-45 Homer Ave project to the next DRC meeting

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review the Secretary's report and May minutes. The meeting includes discussions regarding the Senior Heroes Award, Farmers Market participation, and upcoming term expirations for several members.

• Senior Heroes Award presentation by Steve Mitchell
• Review of member terms ending August 31, 2023, August 31, 2024, and August 31, 2025
• Farmers Market table sign-up
• Review of survey results

The Council on Aging approved the May 2023 meeting minutes. Members discussed the Senior Heroes Award, survey results, and potential summer activities for seniors.

• Approved May 2023 minutes (9-0)

Board of Library Trustees

The Board will review the FY23 and FY24 budgets alongside staff updates. The meeting also includes discussions on community participation, upcoming programming, and grant information.

• FY 23 Budget report
• FY 24 Budget discussion
• BAA grant update
• Selection of new Chair and Vice Chair
• Summer reading programs

The Board appointed new officers for terms ending May 2024. The Board also approved the April meeting minutes and cancelled the June meeting due to scheduling conflicts.

• Elected Linda Weene as Chair through May 2024 (unanimous)
• Elected Bonnie Mitchell as Vice Chair through May 2024 (unanimous)
• Elected Claire Goss as Secretary through May 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved April minutes with grammatical edits
• Cancelled June meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a new subdivision plan for two lots at 16 Union Street and a site modification request for 50 Megunko Road. The meeting also includes a joint discussion with the Community Preservation Commission and an MBTA presentation.

• Public hearing: Definitive Subdivision Plan for 16 Union Street to create two buildable lots and 275 feet of roadway
• Public hearing: Site Plan Review Modification for 50 Megunko Road to change use from trucking to auto body shop
• Joint meeting with Community Preservation Commission for general discussion
• MBTA presentation from the Planning Department
• Planning Board Re-organization

The Planning Board re-elected its Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. Public hearings for a subdivision at 12-16 Union St. and a site modification at 50 Megunko Rd. were both continued to June 8, 2023. The board also approved several sets of previous meeting minutes.

• Approved January 5, 2023, Retreat minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved November 7, 2022, Working Session minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved March 9, 2023, Executive Session minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved March 9, 2023, Planning Board minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved June 9, 2022, Executive Session minutes (4-0-0)
• Continued 12-16 Union St. subdivision hearing to June 8, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued 50 Megunko Rd. site modification hearing to June 8, 2023 (5-0)
• Re-elected Tricia Kendall (Chair), Anna Tesmenitsky (Vice Chair), and Catherine Jurczyk (Clerk) (5-0-0)

Design Review Committee

The committee discussed a proposed bicycle trail plan related to the 9-49 Homer Ave project. Members also updated the Design Review Committee Checklist to include sustainability and traffic categories.

• Presentation on proposed bike trail linking to regional trail loop
• Discussion of potential impacts from 9-49 Homer Ave redevelopment
• Addition of sustainability and traffic categories to DRC checklist

The committee approved meeting minutes from seven previous dates. Members added sustainability and traffic categories to the Design Review Committee Checklist to be used for the 9-49 Homer Ave review.

• Approved 11/17/22 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved 7/7/22 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved 6/16/22 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved 6/2/22 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved 4/28/22 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved 12/22/22 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved 5/4/23 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Added sustainability and traffic categories to the DRC Checklist

Upper Charles River Trail Committee

The Upper Charles Trail Committee is meeting to discuss updates on trail-related parcels (East Coast Greenway, CSX, Zani), site walks on Route 126 and Ashland Commons, and coordination with the Planning Board, Design Review Committee, DCR, and School Committee. The agenda is primarily informational updates and planning, with no final decisions listed.

• Update on East Coast Greenway, CSX, and Zani parcels
• Discuss Route 126 area site walk and next steps
• Update on Ashland Commons site walk
• Update on conversation with local DCR State Parks Manager
• Review status of AUCT outreach meeting with School Committee

The committee unanimously voted to support state funding for the acquisition of CSX track property in Framingham and Sherborn, provided the plan includes a connection through Ashland and route parity. The committee also approved the meeting minutes from February 28 and March 30, 2023.

• Approved support for state funding to acquire CSX track property for trail through Framingham and Sherborn (Unanimous)
• Approved February 28, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved March 30, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)

Sustainability Committee

The committee will review previous minutes and discuss MAPC strategies. The agenda also includes a Sustainability Manager update and discussions regarding Comprehensive Plan updates.

• Review and approve previous minutes
• Review MAPC Strategies
• Sustainability Manager Update
• Recent OML Decision
• Comprehensive Plan Updates

The Committee approved the April 11 minutes and reaffirmed a process to draft and approve minutes within three meetings. Members discussed a MAPC Community Decarbonization Report and next steps for the Opt-in stretch code.

• Approved minutes for April 11
• Reaffirmed process to ensure meeting minutes are drafted and approved within 3 meetings

Select Board

The subcommittee will review applications for the 2023 Select Board Scholarships. The committee is scheduled to vote on selecting two recipients.

• Vote on two scholarship recipients

The committee reviewed 17 scholarship candidates and their community service records. The board selected two primary recipients and two alternates to ensure funds are distributed if primary choices already hold scholarships.

• Selected Mathew Shuhy and Danielle Brodskiy as first choice scholarship recipients (2-0)
• Designated Carlie Marrella and Chris Bialzik as alternate recipients (2-0)
• Approved minutes for the meeting (2-0)

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will hold a hybrid meeting on May 18, 2023, to discuss administrative items including the reorganization of the committee and a request for student travel. The agenda includes a vote on a GKTW (Give Kids the World) trip to Orlando, FL, scheduled for November 10-15, 2023. No specific dollar amounts or contract details are listed in the agenda text.

• Reorganization of the School Committee
• GKTW (Give Kids the World) overnight and out of state travel request to Orlando, FL (Nov 10-15, 2023)
• Warrant Approvals
• Acceptance of Gifts and Donations

Board of Assessors

The Ashland Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine business, including approving prior minutes and miscellaneous signings. The main discussion item is a water bill agreement with Ryan Taylor. No scheduled appointments are listed.

• Discussion of water bill agreement with Ryan Taylor
• Approval of minutes from prior meeting
• Miscellaneous signings

The Board of Assessors met via Zoom to authorize the Director of Assessing to sign a specific agreement. The board approved the motion and then adjourned.

• Authorized Director of Assessing Rich Ball to sign water bill agreement with Ryan Taylor (3-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will consider several grant awards and a public hearing for a car sale license. The meeting includes a vote on extending special patio and outdoor dining services through April 1, 2024.

• Public Hearing: Class II License (Sale of used cars) for Extreme Auto at 43 Nickerson Road
• Vote to extend Special Patios/Outside dining services until April 1, 2024
• Sign and Façade Grant of $4,200.00 to Marathon Mobile
• Business Incentive Grant of $9,958.38 to JKA MetroWest Boston
• Acceptance of a $1,440.00 grant from the Cambridge Public Health Commission

The Select Board approved a series of community grants and a used car license for Extreme Auto. The board also appointed Suneetha Karra to the Zoning Board of Appeals and extended outdoor dining permits for five local businesses.

• Approved Class II License for Extreme Auto at 43 Nickerson Road with a 12-vehicle limit (4-0-0)
• Appointed Suneetha Karra as Associate Member of the Zoning Board of Appeals (4-0-0)
• Approved outdoor dining extensions until April 1, 2024 for Erica’s Ristorante, HOPASH dba TJ’s Food and Spirits, Los Cabos Mexican Grill Cantina, MAZI, and Mexico City Taqueria (4-0-0)
• Approved BAA grant awards totaling $46,043.60 for 23 organizations (4-0-0)
• Approved $4,200 Sign and Facade Grant for Marathon Mobile
• Approved $9,958.38 Business Incentive Grant for JKA MetroWest Boston
• Accepted $1,440.00 grant from the Cambridge Public Health Commission
• Approved one-day licenses for 1634 Meadery and David Jammalo dba Iemmallo Wine Cellars for the Farmers Market

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss legal strategy regarding Town of Ashland vs Chelcie Development LLC D/B/A Steve Ross litigation. The Board will also review and vote on the release of the March 1, 2023, executive session minutes.

• Litigation strategy: Town of Ashland vs Chelcie Development LLC D/B/A Steve Ross
• Approval and release of March 1, 2023, Executive Session minutes

Keefe Tech School Council

The School Council will meet to approve the minutes from the April 25, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes discussions regarding the Seal of Biliteracy and the 2023-2024 School Improvement Plan.

• Approval of April 25, 2023 minutes
• Discussion of Seal of Biliteracy
• Review of 2023-2024 School Improvement Plan

Select Board

The Select Board sub-committee will review and discuss various grant applications. The committee is tasked with determining recommendations to provide to the full Select Board.

• Review and discussion of grant applications
• Determination of recommendations for the Select Board

The BAA Subcommittee reviewed and adjusted grant award amounts to ensure consistency. The subcommittee voted unanimously to approve the grant worksheet recommendations, which include full or partial funding for all applications.

• Approved grant worksheet recommendations (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board and Planning Board will hold a joint meeting. The primary purpose of the session is to conduct appointments for the Comprehensive Plan Committee.

• Comprehensive Plan Committee Appointments

The Planning Board and Select Board jointly appointed representatives from town boards, committees, precincts, and the high school to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee. Two public hearings for development projects at 9-49 Homer Ave and 10-60 Main St were continued to June 8, 2023.

• Appointed board and committee representatives to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (9-9)
• Appointed precinct and high school representatives to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (9-9)
• Promoted Project Management Group representatives to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (9-9)
• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave site plan and special permit hearing to June 8, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued 10-60 Main St special permit and site plan review hearing to June 8, 2023 (5-0)
• Recommended 9-49 Homer Street project to the Design Review Committee for further review

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold continued public hearings regarding site plan and special permit applications for 9-49 Homer Avenue and 10-60 Main Street. The meeting also includes a joint session with the Select Board for Comprehensive Plan Committee appointments.

• Public Hearing: 9-49 Homer Avenue Site Plan and Special Permit Application
• Public Hearing: 10-60 Main Street renovation and addition of three new buildings
• Joint meeting with Select Board for Comprehensive Plan Committee Appointments
• Joint meeting with Community Preservation Commission for general discussion

The Planning Board and Select Board jointly appointed members to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, including board representatives, precinct volunteers, and project management staff. Public hearings for two development projects at 9-49 Homer Ave and 10-60 Main St were continued to June 8, 2023.

• Appointed board and committee representatives to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (9-9)
• Appointed precinct and high school representatives to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (9-9)
• Appointed Project Management Group representatives to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (9-9)
• Recommended 9-49 Homer Ave project to the Design Review Committee for further review
• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave hearing to June 8, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued 10-60 Main St hearing to June 8, 2023 (5-0)

ACCEPT Board of Directors

The subcommittee is meeting to discuss various transportation department matters. Topics include driver shortages, vehicle status, and fleet management changes.

• Driver Shortages
• Cost of subcontracting and circuit breaker
• Status of new vehicles
• Retirement of Fleet Manager
• Single Rider Fees

ACCEPT Board of Directors

The ACCEPT Education Collaborative Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss funding and budget adjustments. The body will review grant funding and the FY23 budget update. Members will also discuss transportation subcontracting costs and a membership fee for Westborough.

• Grant funding
• Amendment to FY24
• FY23 Budget update
• Cost of subcontracting Transportation routes
• Westborough Membership Fee

Ashland Cultural Council

The Council will review the FY21 budget expenses and remaining funds. The meeting also includes updates on recruitment, membership, and upcoming community activities.

• FY21 CC Budget update
• Administrative maintenance and recruitment discussion
• Upcoming grant cycle planning

The council appointed Donna Bresnick and Moala Kitayimbwa as temporary 30-day chairs following a resignation. Members voted to move to a monthly meeting schedule and initiated a 30-day search for a permanent chairperson and a fifth required member.

• Voted to hold monthly meetings
• Appointed Donna Bresnick and Moala Kitayimbwa as temporary 30-day chairs
• Initiated 30-day search for Chairperson and 5th required member

Public Safety Building Committee

The Public Safety Building Committee will discuss outstanding construction items to close out the project. The committee will also confirm details for a proposed dedication ceremony on June 8th.

• Proposed June 8th dedication ceremony
• Discussion of outstanding construction items and project closeout

The committee approved the March 30 meeting minutes and confirmed a ribbon-cutting event for June 8 at 12 Noon. Members discussed event logistics, including invitation revisions, parking options, and shuttle services. Project updates were provided regarding lighting sensors, apparatus bay doors, and photovoltaic installation.

• Approved March 30, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0-1)
• Confirmed June 8 ribbon-cutting ceremony at 12 Noon
• Decided event refreshments will include PSB staff

Town Forest Committee

The committee will review expense submittals, end-of-year budget projections, and map updates. Discussion items include planning for a Fairy House Walk and reviewing Winter Street entry/exit points.

• Approval of April 12, 2023 meeting minutes
• End of budget year spend and projections
• Fairy House Walk Planning
• Winter Street Entry / Exit discussion
• Authorization to Purchase Deer Exclosure Supplies update

The committee voted to request that the Town purchase the Harrington property to add to the Town Forest. They also approved several expense reimbursements and authorized spending for a generator and deer exclosure supplies.

• Requested Town purchase Harrington property to add to Town Forest (6-0-0)
• Authorized purchase of generator not to exceed $1,200.00 (6-0-0)
• Authorized up to $2,600.00 for deer exclosure fencing and posts (6-0-0)
• Approved $585.96 expense payment for Mr. Jones (6-0-0)
• Approved $448.29 expense payment for Mr. Jones (6-0-0)
• Approved April 12, 2023 meeting minutes with changes (6-0-0)
• Tabled discussion on Winter Street Entry / Exit

Sustainability Committee

The committee will conduct a debrief of the recent Town Meeting. Members will also receive an update from the Sustainability Manager and discuss next steps for 2023 priority reviews.

• Town Meeting debrief
• Sustainability Manager update
• 2023 priority review and next steps

The committee reviewed the failure of the specialized stretch code article at the Town Meeting and planned to present it again in the fall. Members discussed the need for improved outreach and a better online presence. The Sustainability Manager reported upcoming staff training and new drop-in hours at the Senior Center.

• Approved February 28 minutes

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review groundwater use restriction regulations and body art regulations. The meeting includes updates on vaccination clinics, housing cases at Chestnut Place Apartments, and the resignation of board member Bernadette Lunkuse.

• Groundwater Use Restriction Regulation review
• Body Art Regulations review
• Chestnut Place Apartments housing case update
• Update on increase in Public Health Nursing Hours for FY2024
• Review of FY2023 YTD Budget Report and FY2024 Budget

The Board of Health approved new regulations prohibiting the use of wells for irrigation or drinking water in the Nyanza Plume contaminated area. The Board also finalized body art regulations and nominated Marie Kane for a public health award.

• Approved Groundwater Use Restriction Sector Regulation (5-0)
• Approved Body Art Regulations as written (5-0)
• Approved nomination of Marie Kane for Mary Mortensen Annual Public Health Award (5-0)
• Approved April 18, 2023 draft meeting minutes and budget reports via consent agenda (5-0)

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The group will discuss next steps for selecting a consultant for the Comprehensive Plan, including scheduling interviews with the Select Board and Planning Board. Members will also review meeting logistics, policies, and procedures.

• Selecting Consultant for Comprehensive Plan
• Logistics for May 18th Steering Committee Meeting
• Review of Comp Plan Document voted by Planning Board
• Steering Committee Selection Process

The Project Management Group reviewed three proposals and reached a consensus to recommend VHB and JM Goldson for interviews before the Select Board and Planning Boards. The group also approved meeting minutes from April 7 and April 11.

• Approved April 7 meeting minutes (4-0-2)
• Approved April 11 meeting minutes (4-0-2)
• Recommended VHB and JM Goldson for consultant interviews
• Decided not to proceed with changes to Policies & Procedures document

Historical Commission

The commission will discuss updates on the Hall House Kiosk project and the future of the Historic Ashland Fire Station. Members will also discuss next steps for the Local Historic District and a Farmer’s Market booth scheduled for July 15th.

• Hall House Kiosk project update
• Historic Ashland Fire Station discussion
• Local Historic District next steps
• Farmer’s Market Booth on July 15th

Keefe Technical School Committee

The OPEB Sub-Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and appoint a new Sub-Committee Chair. The committee will also review the treasurer's report, including current balances and investment strategies.

• Appointment of Sub-Committee Chair
• Review of balance and investment strategy
• Treasurer’s Report

Keefe Technical School Committee

The District School Committee will review a first reading of the Restraint Policy and discuss various administrative updates. The meeting also includes reviews of transportation contracts, insurance plans, and budget transfers.

• First reading of Restraint Policy (Appendix 2023-30)
• Review of Transportation Contract (Appendix 2023-35)
• Discussion of District Medical and Dental Insurance Plans (Appendix 2023-36)
• Review of Non-Salary Financial Expenditure Report (Appendix 2023-37)
• Budget Transfer (Appendix 2023-38)

Pittaway/Warren School Site Council

The Pittaway School Site Council is meeting to discuss the School Improvement Plan (SIP) development and action steps. The agenda includes a welcome and review of norms, followed by the main item on SIP. No votes or decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Review of SIP development and action steps

Town Clerk

The Ashland Town Clerk will conduct a computer program test of the ballots and tabulating equipment. This testing is scheduled for May 4, 2023, at Town Hall.

• Testing of voting equipment on May 4, 2023
• Ballot and tabulating equipment test at 101 Main Street

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Affordable Housing Trust is meeting to review previous minutes and discuss several specific properties. The body will address updates and status reports regarding affordable housing units and foreclosures.

• 487 Main Street property
• Olive Street update
• Carl Ghilani/Raymond Marchetti foreclosure
• 12 Pond Street affordable units

The Trust approved up to $11,000 for a wetlands survey of the Olive Street property to present to the conservation commission. The Carl Ghilani foreclosure auction was discussed, with the town interested in acquiring the property if unsold. The Select Board approved affordable unit allocations at 12 Pond Street, with a lottery being set up.

• Approved not-to-exceed $11,000 for Olive Street wetlands survey (4-0)
• Approved minutes of February 16, 2023 meeting (4-0)
• Discussed Carl Ghilani foreclosure; town may acquire if unsold at auction
• Select Board approved affordable unit allocations at 12 Pond Street; lottery being set up

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to review the Secretary's report and approve April minutes. The agenda includes updates on WACA survey results and discussions regarding the Senior Heroes Award.

• Approval of April minutes
• Senior Heroes Award - Steve Mitchell
• WACA Update survey results

The Ashland Council on Aging approved the April 2023 minutes (6-0) and the Director's Report (5-0). Discussions included reviewing program participation data, Friends of COA involvement in lunch logistics, a July BBQ, a birding program, and June programming suggestions. The board also discussed a Senior Heroes Award and a Farmers Market table on July 22.

• Approved April 2023 minutes (6-0)
• Approved Director's Report (5-0)

Design Review Committee

The Design Review Committee is meeting to discuss proposed changes to parking lot bylaws and design triggers. The body will also review proposed guideline changes regarding planting and parking to present to the Planning Board.

• Discussion of parking lot bylaws and minimum parking space triggers
• Proposed changes to design review triggers (section 9.6)
• Proposed changes to site plan review application requirements (section 9.4)
• Proposed guideline changes for planting and parking
• Review of sustainability checklist and scenic roads reports

The Design Review Committee approved the March 30 meeting minutes (5-0) and discussed signage non-compliance, including too many signs at residential properties and non-working lights. Members also reviewed a site walk for 9-49 Homer Ave, noting potential historic connections and environmental cleanup needs. No formal decisions were made on other agenda items.

• Approved March 30 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review and discuss FY23 abatement applications for several residential and commercial properties. The board will also process FY23 exemption applications.

• FY23 abatement application: 11 Albert Way Dr
• FY23 abatement application: 75 Woodland Rd
• FY23 abatement application: 1-10 Cirrus Dr
• FY23 abatement application: 119 Main St and 70 Cherry St
• Authorization for Director of Assessing to sign agreement by Town Counsel

The Board of Assessors approved minutes from three prior meetings, denied a property tax exemption for 87 Half Crown Circle while approving others, denied abatements for several properties including Hatch, Ashland Transit Apartments, and Oak Street Townhouses, granted one abatement reducing value by $35,500, and agreed to conditions in a letter from Ryan Taylor subject to final approval.

• Approved minutes of January 23, March 22, and April 12, 2023 (3-0)
• Denied exemption for 87 Half Crown Circle, approved rest of exemption list (3-0)
• Denied abatement for Hatch – 11 Albert Hill Dr (3-0)
• Granted abatement for Shopalovich, value reduced by $35,500, taxes abated $488.84 (3-0)
• Denied abatement for Ashland Transit Apartments – 1-10 Cirrus Dr (3-0)
• Denied abatement for Ashland House Associates – 119 Main St and 70 Cherry St (3-0)
• Denied abatement for TCD 233 Chestnut Place Properties LLC – Joanne Dr (3-0)
• Denied abatement for Oak Street Townhouses, Inc – Oak St (3-0)

Town Meeting

The Town Meeting will vote on the FY24 budget and several fund transfers, including $300,000 to the OPEB Trust. The body will also consider new bylaws regarding net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and the removal of the Police Department from Civil Service.

• Proposed balanced budget of $88,718,180 for FY24
• Transfer of $300,000 to the OPEB Trust
• Transfer of $250,000 from Special Education Stabilization to the General Fund
• Proposed new bylaw for Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emission
• Appropriation of $142,025 in Community Preservation Act funds for Oak Street bond payment

The Annual Town Meeting approved a balanced $88,718,180 budget for fiscal year 2024, including $40.2M for schools and $4.2M for police. Voters also approved a $300,000 transfer to the OPEB trust and a $250,000 transfer from the Special Education Stabilization Fund to the General Fund. The consent article covering grants, road contracts, and revolving funds was also approved.

• Approved $88,718,180 FY2024 budget (unanimous)
• Approved $300,000 transfer to OPEB Trust (unanimous)
• Approved $250,000 transfer from Special Education Stabilization Fund to General Fund (2/3 majority)
• Approved consent article including grant authorization, road contracts, and revolving funds (unanimous)

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to conduct the Superintendent's summative evaluation and discuss Town Meeting articles. The body will also consider a tree donation from Senator Spilka under the policy for naming school district entities and memorials.

• Superintendent’s Summative Evaluation
• Mindess Tree Donation (Senator Spilka)
• Town Meeting Articles
• Warrant Approvals
• Acceptance of Gifts and Donations

English Learner Parent Advisory Council (ELPAC)

The English Learner Parent Advisory Council will meet to discuss the role of the ELPAC. The agenda consists of procedural items including introductions, old business, and new business.

Select Board

The Select Board will review a request from Nicks Pizza and Grill for an outdoor patio with liquor service at 87 Main Street. The board will also vote to sign the May 16, 2023, Annual Town Election warrant and discuss the Annual Town Meeting warrant.

• Outdoor dining and expanded liquor service request for Nicks Pizza and Grill at 87 Main Street
• Vote to sign and post the May 16, 2023, Annual Town Election warrant
• Discussion of the Annual Town Meeting Warrant
• Acceptance of Isabel Perez's resignation from the Ashland Cultural Council
• Notification of Stephanie Clifton's appointment as Assistant Town Accountant

The Select Board unanimously approved a liquor license extension for Nicks Pizza to allow outdoor dining with liquor service, and voted to sign and post the May 16, 2023 Annual Town Election Warrant. The board also accepted the resignation of Isabel Perez from the Ashland Cultural Council and waived the 15-day waiting period for the appointment of Stephanie Clifton as Assistant Town Accountant.

• Approved liquor license extension for Nicks Pizza for outdoor dining with liquor service (4-0)
• Signed and posted the May 16, 2023 Annual Town Election Warrant (4-0)
• Accepted the resignation of Isabel Perez from the Ashland Cultural Council (4-0)
• Waived the 15-day waiting period for the appointment of Stephanie Clifton as Assistant Town Accountant (4-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review and approve Body Art Regulations and the April 18, 2023, meeting minutes. The Health Director will provide updates on COVID-19 vaccination clinics, Chestnut Place Apartments, and Waushakum Pond algae bloom education.

• Review and approval of Body Art Regulations
• Discussion of potential nominees for the 2023 Mary Mortensen Annual Public Health Award
• Update on Remote Area Medical (RAM) Clinic scheduled for August 12 & 13, 2023
• Review of FY2023 Year-to-Date Budget Report
• Discussion of Groundwater Use Restriction Regulation as a future agenda item

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The Comprehensive Plan Project Management Team is meeting to interview a candidate for a Precinct 2 vacancy. The group will discuss and vote on the appointment of a Precinct 2 Representative.

• Interview of P2 Candidate Leah Suarez
• Vote on Precinct 2 Representative

Pittaway/Warren School Site Council

The Warren School Site Council will meet to review recent events and the India night program. The body will also finalize discussions regarding goals for the 2023-2024 period.

• Review of India night
• Finalization of 2023-2024 goals

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing regarding a special permit and site plan review application for 9-49 Homer Avenue. The meeting also includes a joint discussion with the Upper Charles Trail Committee and a lot release for Apple Ridge Definitive Subdivision Lot 14.

• Public Hearing: 9-49 Homer Avenue Site Plan and Special Permit Application
• Lot Release: Apple Ridge Definitive Subdivision Lot 14
• Joint meeting with Upper Charles Trail Committee
• Reports on MBTA Communities, Scenic Roads Outreach, and Parking Memo

The Planning Board approved a legal lot release for a property on Wilbur Drive. A public hearing for a mixed-use development on Homer Avenue was continued to May 11, 2023, pending further project details. The board also reviewed trail layout options with the Upper Charles Trail Committee.

• Approved release of Lot 14, 42 Wilbur Dr. (5-0-0)
• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave. public hearing until May 11, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Approved January 4, 2022 minutes (3-0-0)
• Approved October 26, 2022 minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved January 18, 2023 minutes as amended (4-0-0)
• Approved February 9, 2023 minutes (6-0-0)
• Approved February 23, 2023 minutes (6-0-0)

Ashland Middle School Site Council

The Site Council will discuss the school's improvement plan and review new strategic objectives. The meeting also includes updates on MCAS scheduling and staff searches.

• Review and discussion of Improvement Plan
• Overview of new strategic objectives
• Updates on AD and Team Chair searches
• World Language Survey updates
• MCAS Schedule updates

Board of Library Trustees

The Board approved a one-year extension for outdoor seating on the library lawn and reserved a date for the Community tent. The Board also discussed FY24 budget recommendations and proposed an amendment to the Art Policy.

• Approved extension of outdoor seating permission for Erica’s Restaurant through April 2024
• Approved March meeting minutes with one edit
• Reserved September 23, 2023, for the Ashland Farmer’s Market Community tent
• Postponed May meeting to May 30, 2023

Select Board

The Ashland Select Board will meet to discuss several licensing requests, including outdoor dining at Nicks Pizza and Grill and a wine and malt license for Ashland Fish and Game. The board will also vote on re-appointing town counsel and reviewing updates on priority projects.

• Liquor License Hearing: Wine and Malt License and change of hours request for Ashland Fish and Game
• Outdoor Dining Request: Nicks Pizza and Grill
• Vote to re-appoint Mead, Talerman, and Costa as Town Counsel through June 30, 2024
• Land License reconstruction for 71 Spring Street to replace an asphalt plant storage tank
• Declaration of surplus equipment for the Fire and Police Departments

The Select Board approved a Wine and Malt license for the Ashland Fish and Game pavilion and re-appointed the town's legal counsel. The board also approved a land license reconstruction for 71 Spring Street and passed a consent agenda including a historical commission appointment.

• Approved Wine and Malt License for Ashland Fish and Game pavilion (4-0-0)
• Approved clubhouse operating hours Sunday-Saturday, noon to 1:00 am (4-0-0)
• Re-appointed Mead, Talerman and Costa as Town Counsel through June 30, 2024 (4-0-0)
• Approved land license reconstruction for 71 Spring Street (4-0-0)
• Appointed Denis Carroll to the Historical Commission (4-0-0)
• Approved Greater Ashland Lions Club White Cane Toll Road request (4-0-0)
• Approved one-day license for Aaronap Cellars at Farmers Market (4-0-0)
• Declared surplus for Fire Department fill station/compressor and Police Department 2013 Ford Fusion (4-0-0)

School Committee

The Wellness Sub Committee is meeting to review and potentially vote on revisions to wellness and life-threatening allergy policies. The committee will also discuss the concussion policy and review progress toward goals.

• Vote on suggested revisions to Wellness Policies
• Potential vote on suggested revisions to Life Threatening Allergy Policy
• Discussion of Concussion Policy
• Review of goal progress

Sustainability Committee

The committee reviewed published articles and a PowerPoint presentation for the Town Meeting. Members decided against creating a handout for the event. The committee also discussed future residential initiatives and a potential energy rating program.

• Decided against creating a Town Meeting handout
• Reviewed Town Meeting PowerPoint presentation

Metrowest Regional Transit Authority

The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board is holding an open meeting to review the draft FY24 budget and hear the administrator's report. The board will also approve minutes from the March 3, 2023 meeting and take public comments.

• FY24 Draft Budget Review
• Administrator Report
• Approval of March 3, 2023 meeting minutes
• Public questions/comments (2-minute limit)

Mindess School Building Committee

The Mindess School Building Committee met virtually on April 20, 2023, to discuss the ongoing construction and design of the new school building. Key topics included a revised proposal for the Diamond relocation, budget updates from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), and construction change requests. The committee also approved invoices, reported on expenditures, and ratified the minutes from the March 14, 2023 meeting.

• Revised Moving/Relocation Proposal for Diamond
• Budget and MSBA updates
• Construction Change Requests/Orders
• Approval of Invoices and Expenditures
• Approval of March 14, 2023 Minutes

Metrowest Regional Transit Authority

The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority's Finance & Audit Committee is meeting to discuss the proposed operating budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, and to receive an update from the CFO on the status of the audit and financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2022. The meeting is open to the public and includes time for public comment.

• Discussion of proposed operating budget for FYE 6/30/2024
• Update from CFO on status of audit and preparation of financial statements for year ended 6/30/2022
• Review and approval of prior minutes
• Public comment period

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee is holding an open forum to review sustainability bylaws. The meeting includes discussions on a specialized code and municipal net zero goals.

• Review of Opt in Specialized Code
• Discussion of Municipal Net Zero

The meeting was an open forum and not an official committee meeting. No official business was conducted, and no votes or decisions were taken. Discussion was limited to reviewing proposed bylaws and answering resident questions.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss a change in the fee schedule and potential nominees for the Mary Mortensen Annual Public Health Award. The Health Director will provide updates on vaccination clinics, housing cases at Chestnut Place Apartments, and beaver activity on Indian Brook Road.

• Change in Fee Schedule
• Body Art Regulation Town Counsel review
• Housing Case: Chestnut Place Apartments
• Update on Tobacco Fine, Family Dollar Store
• Animal Regulation Variance Request, 15 Tyler Lane

The Board of Health approved changes to the fee schedule for food establishment renovations and residential service inspections. The board also approved the March 21, 2023 meeting minutes and the FY2023 year-to-date budget report.

• Approved $100 fee for major food establishment renovations (4-0)
• Approved $50 fee for minor food establishment renovations (4-0)
• Approved increase for Residential Service Inspections from $95 to $125 (4-0)
• Approved March 21, 2023 draft meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved FY2023 Year to Date Budget Report (4-0)
• Tabled Mary Mortensen Annual Public Health Award nominee selection

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding site plan and special permit applications for 9-49 Homer Avenue and 10-60 Main Street. The board will also consider a request to withdraw an application for 301 Pond Street.

• Public hearing for 9-49 Homer Avenue site plan and special permit application
• Public hearing for 10-60 Main Street renovation including 200 apartment units and 30,000 square feet of commercial space
• Request to withdraw the 301 Pond Street project application without prejudice
• Lot release for Apple Ridge Definitive Subdivision Lot 14
• Review of sustainability checklist and pre-application conference documents

The Planning Board accepted the withdrawal of the 301 Pond Street application and continued public hearings for two other site plans. The board also updated its sustainability checklist by removing artificial turf.

• Accepted withdrawal of 301 Pond St. application without prejudice; returned $26,197.04 of fees (4-0-0)
• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave. public hearing until April 27, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Continued 10-60 Main St. public hearing until May 11, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Removed artificial turf from the Sustainability Checklist
• Approved January 26, 2023, minutes as amended (4-0-0)
• Approved June 27, 2022, joint Planning Board and Select Board minutes as amended (5-0-0)
• Postponed Apple Ridge Definitive Subdivision Lot 14 lot release

ACCEPT Board of Directors

The ACCEPT Education Collaborative Transportation Subcommittee is meeting to discuss a transportation and fleet update.

• Transportation/Fleet update

ACCEPT Board of Directors

The ACCEPT Education Collaborative's Finance & Transportation Subcommittee is meeting to review financial reports through March 31, 2023, and discuss an amendment to the FY24 budget regarding a Medway satellite nurse and nurses office setup. They will also receive a transportation/fleet update.

• Profit and Loss through March 31, 2023
• Budget vs Actual through March 31, 2023
• Amendment to FY24 Budget for Medway Satellite Nurse and Nurses office setup
• Transportation/Fleet update

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The group is meeting to interview candidates for P1 and P6 positions and select precinct and student members. The team will also review the RFP timeline, steering committee selection process, and the Comprehensive Plan document voted on by the Planning Board.

• Interview of P1 candidate Jonathan Beck
• Interview of P6 candidate Lisa Churchill
• Selection of precinct and student members
• Review of RFP timeline
• Review of Comprehensive Plan document voted by Planning Board

The group selected representatives for five of six voting precincts and a high school representative. The selection for precinct 2 was deferred pending a future interview with Leah Suarez. The group also approved the meeting minutes from March 16, 2023.

• Approved March 16, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Selected Kortni Wroten for Precinct 1
• Selected David Evancho for Precinct 3
• Selected Aroon Manoharan for Precinct 4
• Selected Rajashree Ghosh for Precinct 5
• Selected Lisa Churchill for Precinct 6
• Selected Hasini Reddy as High School Representative
• Tabled Local Town Pages article for a future meeting

Board of Assessors

The Ashland Board of Assessors is meeting to approve prior minutes, sign FY23 exemption applications, and discuss seven FY23 property tax abatement applications, including apartments, single-family homes, an assisted living facility, and a mixed-use property. One application, for a hardship under Clause 18, is for discussion only. No scheduled appointments are listed.

• FY23 abatement application: Ashland Woods Apartments
• FY23 abatement application: Hatch – 11 Albert Way Dr (single family home)
• FY23 abatement application: Shopalovich – 75 Woodland Rd (single family home)
• FY23 abatement application: Ashland MA Senior Property LLC (assisted living)
• FY23 abatement application: Jean Nigloschy – 26 Birch Hill Rd (Clause 18 hardship, discussion only)

The Board of Assessors voted to deny several abatement applications, including those for Ashland Woods and Robert Hill Way 1 Non-Profit. One abatement was granted for 12 Pond St LLC, resulting in a value reduction of $932,600. Two applications were tabled for the next meeting.

• Tabled Hatch and Shopalovich abatement applications
• Denied abatement of Ashland Woods apartments (3-0)
• Denied abatement of Ashland MA Senior Property LLC assisted living (3-0)
• Denied abatement of Ashland MA Senior Property LLC from Mark F. Murphy, Esq. (3-0)
• Denied abatement of Robert Hill Way 1 Non-Profit apartments (3-0)
• Granted abatement of 12 Pond St LLC mixed use; value reduced by $932,600, taxes abated $12,841.90, CPA reduced $385.26 (3-0)
• Denied Clause 18 Hardship application for 26 Birch Hill Rd (3-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to vote on the FY24 General and Enterprise Funds Budgets and to close and post the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. The agenda also includes discussions regarding a one-day license for Clover Road Brewing and an RFP proposal for the Downtown Fire Station.

• Vote on FY24 General and Enterprise Funds Budgets
• One Day License Application for Clover Road Brewing (Corner Spot) for multiple dates in April and June 2023
• Discussion of RFP proposal for the Downtown Fire Station at 151 Main Street
• Authorization of Local Initiative Program documents for 12 Pond Street
• Land License reconstruction for 71 Spring Street to replace an asphalt plant storage tank

The Select Board approved the FY24 General and Enterprise Funds budgets and closed the May 3, 2023 Annual Town Meeting warrant. The board also authorized affordable housing covenants for 12 Pond Street and approved several one-day liquor licenses for Clover Road Brewing.

• Approved FY24 General and Enterprise Funds Budgets (5-0-0)
• Approved closing and posting the May 3, 2023 Annual Town Meeting Warrant (5-0-0)
• Authorized Chair to sign affordable housing agreements for 12 Pond Street (5-0-0)
• Approved one-day liquor licenses for Clover Road Brewing for multiple dates in April and June (5-0-0)
• Appointed Kimberly Wales and Lynn Lidz to the Board of Registrars (5-0-0)
• Delegated May 2023 Annual Town Election police detail authority to Town Clerk (5-0-0)
• Re-appointed Richard Maher to Housing Authority through May 2028 (5-0-0)
• Accepted resignation of Bernadette Lunkuse from the Board of Health (5-0-0)

Town Forest Committee

The Ashland Town Forest Committee is meeting to introduce four new associate member candidates, approve minutes and expenses, and discuss several operational items including a map update, trail liaison appointment, and membership renewals. The committee will also authorize purchases for deer exclosure supplies and discuss subcommittee objectives for 2023/24.

• Introducing associate member candidates Denise Carroll, Rugved Rane, Thomas Caywood, and Jacob Kasprzyk
• Acceptance of Map Update
• Appointment of Bay Circuit Trail liaison
• Authorization to Purchase Deer Exclosure Supplies
• NEMBA and SVT membership renewals

The committee approved several equipment purchases, including a portable generator and a thermostat. Members also voted to accept updates to the forest map and appointed a liaison to the Bay Circuit Trail.

• Approved purchase of a portable generator (7-0-0)
• Accepted map updates with changes and additions (6-1-0)
• Appointed Brian Forestal as Bay Circuit Trail liaison (7-0-0)
• Approved purchase of a thermostat for the storage box (2-0-4)
• Approved use of Triclopry on Poison Ivy and Bittersweet (5-1-0)
• Approved $200.00 budget for May 12th Fairy House Walk (6-0-0)
• Tabled NEMBA Membership Renewal
• Tabled SVT Membership Renewal

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hear presentations on the Keefe Tech Budget and Community Preservation Committee (CPC) sponsored warrant articles. The committee is scheduled to review and make recommendations on articles in the Annual Town Meeting Warrant.

• Presentation on Keefe Tech Budget
• Presentation on CPC sponsored warrant articles
• Recommendations on Annual Town Meeting Warrant articles

The Finance Committee reviewed and recommended approval for 12 of 14 articles in the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. Key recommendations include the FY24 budget, a lease for the Main Street Fire Station, and removing the Police Department from Civil Service. The committee deferred a decision on the Specialized Stretch Code bylaw update to the Town Meeting.

• Recommended approval of FY24 Fiscal Year Budget (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $175,000 for Fire Truck Restoration (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Main Street Fire Station lease for $170,000 over 5 years (5-0)
• Recommended approval to remove Police Dept. from Civil Service (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Keefe Tech Capital Stabilization Account (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Net Zero code updates as revised (5-0)
• Recommended approval of OPEB Trust and Special Education fund transfer (5-0)
• Deferred recommendation on Specialized Stretch Code bylaw update to Town Meeting

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to discuss updates on warrant articles and the 2023 priority review. The body will also coordinate the Earth Day Celebration scheduled for April 23rd.

• Warrant article reviews and updates
• Earth Day Celebration on April 23rd
• 2023 Priority review
• Sustainability Manager update

The committee reviewed and finalized two warrant articles to be submitted to the town by April 12. Members also reviewed presentation slides for the upcoming Town Meeting and discussed staffing for an Earth Day event on April 23.

• Reviewed and finalized two warrant articles for submission
• Reviewed Town Meeting presentation slides

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group interviewed student and precinct representatives for the Steering Committee. No appointments were made during the meeting.

• Confirmed Jonathon Beck (Precinct 1) and Lisa Churchill (Precinct 6) will be interviewed on April 13th

Historical Commission

The Ashland Historical Commission is meeting to discuss several preservation topics, including a final update on the Hall House kiosk project, an update on fire truck preservation related to a Town Meeting warrant, next steps for a Local Historic District, and potential modifications to the Demolition Delay Bylaw. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and public discussion.

• Final update on Hall House Kiosk project
• Update on Fire Truck Preservation – Town Meeting Warrant
• Local Historic District: next steps discussion
• Discussion of further updates/modifications to the Demolition Delay Bylaw

The commission unanimously voted to recognize a fire truck restoration project as historically significant. Members also discussed the design and placement of a new kiosk for the Hall house and planned outreach for a downtown historic district.

• Approved March 14, 2023 meeting minutes with date correction (5-0)
• Deemed $175,000 fire truck restoration project historic (4-0)
• Agreed to upright, landscape-oriented design for Hall house kiosk

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The Comprehensive Plan Project Management Team is meeting to review logistics and standard questions for precinct/student candidate interviews scheduled for April 11, and to review the calendar of upcoming meetings. The agenda is procedural, focused on interview preparation rather than policy decisions.

• Review logistics for precinct/student candidate interviews on 4/11
• Determine standard questions for interviews
• Review calendar of upcoming meetings

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet at the Ashland Public Library to review reports and discuss various senior services. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and updates on community programs.

• Approval of January and March minutes
• Senior Heroes Award presentation by Steve Mitchell
• Farmers Market table discussion with Fran Blake
• WACA update from Alexis
• Review of survey results

The Council on Aging approved a motion for Steve Mitchell to develop a proposal for a senior heroes award. The board also approved the March 2023 minutes and the Director's report.

• Approved March 2023 minutes (8-0)
• Approved motion for Steve Mitchell to create a senior heroes award proposal (8-0)
• Approved Director's report (7-0-1)

Metrowest Regional Emergency Planning Committee

The MetroWest Regional Emergency Planning Committee (REPC) is meeting to hear a presentation from the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM-USA Region 1), discuss training initiatives, and set the date for the next meeting. The agenda also includes approval of the January 5, 2023 minutes and general discussion.

• Presentation by IAEM-USA Region 1
• Training Committee discussion
• Minutes of January 5, 2023 meeting
• Next meeting scheduled for July 6, 2023

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will discuss transportation fees, the district strategic plan, and NESDEC updates. The body is scheduled to hold a public hearing regarding school choice participation for the 2023-2024 school year and review the Superintendent's summative evaluation.

• Public Hearing: School Choice Participation for the 2023-2024 School Year
• Transportation fees and waitlist discussion
• Superintendent’s Summative Evaluation
• Strategic Plan Update by Prem Aithal, HYA&A
• Warrant Approvals

Community Preservation Committee

The Ashland Community Preservation Committee is meeting to review March minutes and discuss several potential projects. The main items are the library historic rooms restoration and a potential police station landscape project, along with a restrictions working group discussion. This is a discussion and planning meeting, not a final decision-making session.

• Library historic rooms restoration
• Police Station Landscape Potential Project
• Restrictions working group discussion
• March minutes review

The committee approved the March 21 meeting minutes. Members discussed the process of securing deed restrictions for town properties and decided to place the committee's potential role in this process on a future agenda. The committee also planned to identify ways to collaborate with the Select Board on future projects.

• Approved March 21 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Decided to place the committee's role in securing deed restrictions on a future agenda

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority will hold its regular monthly board meeting. The agenda includes approving February 2023 minutes and payables, as well as receiving an Executive Director's report.

• Approval of February 2023 minutes
• Approval of February–March 2023 payables
• Property/resident update

Keefe Technical School Committee

The District School Committee will hold a public hearing regarding school choice. The meeting also includes reports on the Superintendent Evaluation Sub-Committee, MSBA Statement of Interest, and various facility and personnel updates.

• Public hearing on school choice
• Update on Superintendent Evaluation Sub-Committee
• MSBA Statement of Interest report
• Non-salary financial expenditure report
• Budget transfer review

Keefe Technical School Committee

The Superintendent Evaluation Sub-Committee will meet to review the annual performance and ratings of the Superintendent. The committee also plans to develop a full committee report.

• Approval of February 6, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of Annual Performance and Ratings
• Planning of Full Committee Report

School Committee

The Safety Sub-Committee is meeting to receive an update on the Mindess Building and approve previous minutes. The body will enter executive session to discuss security personnel, devices, and emergency response strategies.

• Mindess Building update
• Emergency Response Team and protocols
• ALICE Training
• Evacuation protocols, procedures, and drills

Pittaway/Warren School Site Council

The Warren School Site Council is meeting to receive updates on recent events, finalize planning for cultural night and the next day of school, and begin discussion of goals for the 2023-2024 school year. The agenda is routine and contains no major decisions or financial items.

• Finalize planning for cultural night and next day of school
• Begin discussion for 2023-2024 goals

Public Safety Building Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss updates regarding Fire Department occupancy and apparatus bay doors. The session includes a review of the budget and potential change orders (PCO).

• Fire Department occupancy update
• Apparatus bay doors update
• Budget and PCO review
• Dedication ceremony discussion

The committee discussed scheduling a dedication ceremony for May, pending the completion of the seventh bay door. It was decided to hold the ceremony on a weekday and the open house on a weekend to manage parking limitations.

• Decided on weekday dedication ceremony and weekend open house
• Adjourned meeting (7-0-1)

Design Review Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss proposed changes to parking lot bylaws and design guidelines. The agenda includes reviewing design review triggers and site plan review application requirements for the Planning Board.

• Discussion of parking lot bylaws and design
• Proposed changes to design review triggers (section 9.6)
• Proposed changes to site plan review application requirements (section 9.4)
• Proposed guideline changes for planting and parking
• Survey for AFM

The committee appointed a co-chair and discussed updates to the Sustainability Checklist and project guidelines. Members agreed to rotate the responsibility for submitting meeting minutes.

• Appointed Kevin Mowatt as co-chair (All voted Aye)
• Agreed to rotate Secretary and meeting minutes submission responsibilities

Upper Charles River Trail Committee

The committee met for a site walk from the Market Basket parking lot, moving through the old Bay Circuit Trail and Wenzell Road into SVT property. Members discussed regional planning and potential signage for a turnoff from CSX tracks to the Dike Trail.

• Adjourned meeting at 2:05 pm (Unanimous)

Keefe Tech School Council

The School Council will meet to conduct introductions and review the role of the council. The body is scheduled to elect a co-chair and discuss the Educator of the Year.

• Election of Co-Chair
• Discussion regarding Educator of the Year
• Review of Handbook Cover

Select Board

The Select Board will review appointments, economic development budget updates, and various business reimbursements. The meeting also includes discussions on engineering for a multi-modal path on Route 135 and the Annual Town Meeting Warrant.

• $1,993.75 reimbursement for Abbey Carper & Floor, Inc. via sign and façade improvement grant
• $16,000.00 reimbursement for A&F Business Consulting Inc for rent and equipment
• One-Day License requests for Wine Empire and Decanted Wine Truck at the Corner Spot
• Discussion of engineering for sidewalk or multi-modal path on Route 135
• Zoning Board of Appeals Associate Member candidate appointment

The Select Board appointed Ryan Sullivan as an Associate Member of the Zoning Board of Appeals. The board also approved several economic development reimbursements and one-day liquor licenses via a consent agenda.

• Appointed Ryan Sullivan to Zoning Board of Appeals as Associate Member (5-0-0)
• Approved $1,993.75 sign and facade improvement grant reimbursement for Jillian Roberts (5-0-0)
• Approved $16,000.00 rent and equipment reimbursement for Fernanda Nogueira (5-0-0)
• Approved one-day licenses for Wine Empire for three dates in 2023 (5-0-0)
• Approved one-day licenses for Decanted Wine Truck for four dates in 2023 (5-0-0)
• Accepted joint Planning Board and Select Board minutes from January 4, 2022 (5-0-0)
• Accepted Select Board meeting minutes from November 16, 2022 (5-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The committee will review previous minutes and debrief on the Selectboard meeting. Discussion topics include updates on warrant articles, the April 23rd Earth Day celebration, and a review of 2023 priorities.

• Earth Day Celebration on April 23rd
• Warrant article reviews/update
• 2023 Priority review

The committee approved minutes from the March 14 meeting and modified language for the municipal zero emissions bylaw to include schools and provide flexibility for heavy vehicles. Members discussed the specialized stretch code and decided to research other towns' effective dates before finalizing the warrant article.

• Approved March 14 meeting minutes with one edit
• Agreed to change the term 'binding' in municipal requirements
• Modified municipal zero emissions bylaw to change 'Ashland Town Government' to 'Ashland Town'
• Modified zero emissions language to allow flexibility for heavy vehicles
• Proposed warrant article forum for April 18

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority is holding its regular monthly board meeting on March 28, 2023. The agenda consists entirely of procedural items, including the approval of previous minutes and payable bills. No specific new business, contracts, or ordinances are detailed in the provided text.

• Approval of minutes from February 2023
• Approval of payables for February and March 2023
• Executive Director's report
• Property and resident update
• Tenant open forum

ACCEPT Board of Directors

The ACCEPT Education Collaborative Finance & Transportation Subcommittee is meeting to review the status of the FY23 van order. The body will discuss alternate options for vehicles and the cost of repairs.

• Status of FY23 Van Order
• Discussion of used vehicles as an alternative
• Discussion of a new bid for vehicles
• Review of repair costs

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a joint meeting with the Conservation Commission and review affordable housing inventory status. The agenda includes updates on sewer and housing moratoriums, MBTA Communities, and various committee reports.

• ANR plan for 10 Loring Drive to combine lot 2 and lot 3 into a 60,422 sq. ft. parcel
• Review of Housing Inventory Memo regarding affordable housing status
• Status update on Sewer Moratorium and Housing Moratorium
• Update on MBTA Communities
• Joint meeting with Conservation Commission

The Planning Board approved an application to combine two lots at 10 Loring Dr and established an optional pre-application conference process. The board also finalized decisions regarding the Eversource Scenic Road application and 0 Sewell Street. Town officials reported that the MBTA Action Plan was approved.

• Approved Approval Not Required (ANR) for 10 Loring Dr to merge two lots (5-0-0)
• Approved optional pre-application conference with the Planning Board (5-0-0)
• Accepted Eversource Scenic Road decision with edits (4-0-0)
• Approved decision for 0 Sewell Street reconsideration (5-0-0)
• Approved amended January 12, 2023, minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved amended March 17, April 28, and June 9, 2022, minutes (5-0-0)

Ashland Middle School Site Council

The Ashland Middle School Site Council is meeting to receive updates on various school initiatives, including the STAND norms campaign, 9th grade course recommendations, Unified Basketball, budget presentation, MCAS schedule, and Family Reconnect. They will also review and discuss Goal #3 and plan agenda items for the next meeting.

• Updates on STAND norms campaign
• 9th grade course recommendations timeline
• AMS Unified Basketball
• Budget presentation
• MCAS Schedule and Family Reconnect

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review FY23 exemption applications and discuss abatement applications for six specific properties. The meeting includes the approval of prior meeting minutes.

• FY23 exemption applications signings
• Abatement discussion: Ashland Woods Apartments
• Abatement discussion: 11 Albert Way Dr
• Abatement discussion: 75 Woodland Rd
• Abatement discussion: 137 Pond St

The Board of Assessors denied all six FY23 exemptions on the list and two abatement requests for properties on Concord St. One abatement for 137 Pond St was granted. The board deferred a vote on the Ashland Woods appeal and tabled two other abatement applications.

• Approved March 2, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Denied all 6 FY23 exemptions on list (3-0)
• Granted abatement for Nasios at 137 Pond St: value reduced from $467,700 to $335,000, taxes abated $1827.28 (3-0)
• Denied abatement for Taylor at 18 Concord St (3-0)
• Denied abatement for Taylor at 24 Concord St (3-0)
• Deferred vote on Ashland Woods Real Estate Assessment appeal
• Tabled Hatch and Shopalovich abatement applications

Town Forest Committee

The committee is meeting to determine if future meetings will be in-person or hybrid following the expiration of a remote meeting executive order. Members will also decide whether to fill a vacant co-chair position or re-establish a vice chair role.

• Introduction of associate member candidates: Denise Carroll, Rugved Rane, Thomas Caywood, and Jacob Kasprzyk
• Decision on meeting structure, frequency, and location
• Election of Co-Chair or Vice Chair
• Planning for Bungalow Clean Up water access and scheduling
• Discussion of 2023/24 objectives for Forestry, Trails and Recreation, Education and Promotion, and Land Acquisition subcommittees

The committee re-established the vice-chair position and appointed Mike Jones to the role. Funding was approved for tree fertilizer and shrubs for the barberry removal project. The committee also scheduled a bungalow cleanup for April 6.

• Approved amended March 8, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Re-established the position of vice-chair (5-0-0)
• Appointed Mike Jones as vice-chair (5-0-0)
• Approved up to $220.00 for tree fertilizer from DPW funds (5-0-0)
• Approved up to $550.00 for shade tolerant shrubs from CPC funds (5-0-0)
• Scheduled bungalow cleanup for April 6

Board of Library Trustees

The Board will review the FY 23 and FY 24 budgets. Discussion items include patron feedback on the Emma Green Program, snow day procedures, and an upcoming children's book festival.

• Budget FY 23
• Budget FY 24
• Emma Green Program patron feedback
• Children's Book festival

The Board approved the February meeting minutes with one correction. The Board also agreed to postpone the April meeting to April 26, 2023.

• Approved February minutes with one edit to the strategic committee name
• Postponed April meeting to Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss findings of PFAS in fish at Ashland State Park Reservoir and updates on a Narcan purchasing program. The meeting includes nominations for Animal Inspectors and discussions regarding vaccination clinics and tobacco fines.

• Nomination of Dona Walsh and Justine Grassey as Animal Inspectors
• Discussion of PFAS found in fish in Ashland State Park Reservoir
• Narcan/Community Naloxone Purchasing Program update
• Update on Tobacco Fine at Family Dollar Store
• Future discussion of Groundwater Use Restriction Regulation

The Board of Health nominated two animal inspectors and set a May 1, 2023, deadline for Family Dollar to pay a tobacco fine or face a sales suspension. The Board also approved the consent agenda, including the March 7 meeting minutes and the FY2023 budget report.

• Nominated Dona Walsh and Justine Grassey as Animal Inspectors (4-0)
• Approved suspension of Family Dollar Store's right to sell tobacco if fine is not paid by May 1, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved March 7, 2023 draft meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved YTD Budget Report FY2023 (4-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Ashland Community Preservation Committee will review January minutes and discuss several potential projects, including the Mindess School Nature Trail, Library Ceiling Restoration, and a Dog Park. They will also discuss progress on the Fire Truck Restoration spring town meeting warrant article, the Fire/Police Station Project, and the Upper Charles Trail – Sherborn Connection.

• Mindess School Nature Trail
• Library Ceiling Restoration
• Dog Park
• Fire Truck Restoration warrant article
• Upper Charles Trail – Sherborn Connection

The Committee approved funding for consultation services to develop open space options at the site of the old police station. A request for $15,300 for library interior restoration was deferred for further research. The Committee also discussed potential future funding for a nature trail and a dog park.

• Approved $5,000 from administrative accounts for consultation services for old police station open space options (6-1-0)
• Approved January 10, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)

Comprehensive Plan Project Management Group

The group is discussing recruitment and interview processes for precinct candidates and consultants. Members will also review project management procedures, volunteer engagement, and marketing for the comprehensive plan process.

• Finalizing questions for precinct positions
• Establishing interview processes for precinct candidates and a consultant
• Reviewing updates to Project Management Group procedures
• Approval of meeting minutes from January 19, February 6, and March 2, 2023

The group finalized interview questions and the selection process for precinct candidates. They approved the use of a modified letter and flyer for applicants and established a timeline for interviews and appointments through May 11.

• Finalized five interview questions for precinct candidates
• Decided one person per precinct will conduct interviews with limited follow-up
• Approved using Brandi's modified letter and Town Meeting flyer for candidates
• Approved January 19, 2023 minutes (6-0)
• Approved February 6, 2023 minutes (6-0)
• Approved March minutes (6-0)

School Committee

The School Committee will conduct a public hearing and vote on the FY’24 school budget. The body will also discuss the Athletic Director search and review stipends for high school clubs.

• Public hearing and vote on FY’24 School Budget
• Review and approval of 8 proposed High School Clubs and Advisor Stipends
• Rescheduling of May early release from 5/24/24 to 5/17/24
• Appointment of a School Committee member to the Driscoll Scholarship Committee
• Athletic Director search process and member appointment

Select Board

The Select Board will vote on the FY24 Budget and discuss several municipal matters, including a building moratorium and the Town Manager evaluation process. The board will also hear presentations on DPW expansion and potential sustainability bylaws.

• Vote on the FY24 Budget
• Acceptance of COPS Office Anti-Heroin Task Force funding in the amount of $10,000.00
• Discussion of potential warrant articles including a Tree Bylaw, Net Zero, and a ban on new gas connections
• Discussion of a memorial for Spencer the dog near 162 West Union Street
• Review of the Department of Housing and Community Development action plan for MBTA Communities

The Select Board approved the FY24 budget and updated the application process for Common Victualler Licenses. The board also opened the spring BAA Grant round and discussed a reuse plan for the Cedar Street Fire Station.

• Approved FY24 budget in the amount of $77,057,446.66 (5-0-0)
• Approved updated Common Victualler license application process as amended (5-0-0)
• Approved opening Spring BAA Grant round until April 14 (5-0-0)
• Approved Max Performance Triathlon event for May 21, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Appointed Venkataramana Kakula to Town Forest Committee (unanimous)
• Approved Jimmy Fund Walk for October 1, 2023 (unanimous)
• Accepted request from TJ’s Fine Food and Spirits for outdoor liquor license extension (unanimous)
• Declared surplus an 8 ft. table, chair, and Plexiglas shield at the Community Center (unanimous)

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will vote to accept a new Drain Program and review updates on the MS4 Program and construction projects. The meeting also includes discussions on the Stormwater Enterprise, new members, and the Farmer’s Market.

• Vote to accept the Drain Program
• MS4 Program Update – MA Stormwater Handbook
• Construction Projects Updates
• Stormwater Enterprise Update and Discussion
• Farmer’s Market Discussion on Needed Materials

The committee approved a motion for Mr. White to write a letter to the Conservation Commission regarding future maintenance costs and the transfer of operations for Legacy Farms to the HOA. The committee also approved the minutes from January 18, 2022. Other agenda items, including the Stormwater Enterprise update, were tabled.

• Approved draft minutes of January 18, 2022 (3-0-0)
• Approved motion for Mr. White to compose letter to ConCom regarding Legacy Farms maintenance costs and transfer of operations to HOA (3-0-0)
• Tabled Stormwater Enterprise Update and Discussion
• Scheduled next meeting for June 21, 2023, as a hybrid meeting

Community Preservation Committee

The committee will review potential projects including the Mindess School Nature Trail and Library Ceiling Restoration. Members will also discuss the Fire/Police Station project and the Upper Charles Trail connection to Sherborn.

• Mindess School Nature Trail project discussion
• Library Ceiling Restoration project discussion
• Dog Park project discussion
• Fire Truck Restoration and spring town meeting warrant article progress
• Fire/Police Station Project and Upper Charles Trail – Sherborn Connection discussions

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will discuss the April 23rd Earth Day celebration and debrief the Sustainable Homes Seminar. The body will also prepare for a Selectboard meeting and review priorities for 2023.

• Earth Day Celebration on April 23rd
• Sustainable Homes Seminar debrief
• 2023 Priority review
• Selectboard Meeting preparation

The committee approved meeting minutes from January and discussed preparations for Earth Day on April 23. Members reviewed 2023 priorities and coordinated on two warrant articles to be presented to the Select Board on March 15.

• Approved 1/17/23 and 1/31/23 minutes
• Postponed tree bylaw to Fall Town Meeting

Historical Commission

The Ashland Historical Commission will meet to discuss updates to the Local Historic District and the Hall House Kiosk project. The body will also consider modifications to the Demolition Delay Bylaw and vote on a committee appointment.

• Election/vote for Karen Coleman to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee
• Updates on the Local Historic District
• Update on Hall House Kiosk project
• Discussion of modifications to the Demolition Delay Bylaw
• Invitation to tour 22 Eliot St.

The Historical Commission appointed Karen Coleman to represent the body on the comprehensive plan steering committee. Members discussed potential updates to the Demo Delay Bylaw and next steps for creating a historic district. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved minutes from February 7th, 2023 (4-0)
• Appointed Karen Coleman to the comprehensive plan steering committee (4-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on Eversource's tree pruning on scenic roads, a reconsideration of a denied zoning application for 0 Sewell Street, and continued reviews for developments at 9-49 Homer Avenue and 10-60 Main Street. The board will also discuss an accessory dwelling bylaw and other planning topics.

• Eversource Energy scenic road tree pruning on Olive, Spring, Eliot, Cherry, Cedar, Fountain Streets and Frankland Road
• Rimark LLC reconsideration for 0 Sewell Street: two single-family homes instead of duplexes
• WJK Homer LLC special permit and site plan for 9-49 Homer Avenue (continued)
• Ashland Properties LLC proposal for 30,000 sq ft commercial, 200 apartments, 378 parking spaces at 10-60 Main Street (continued)
• Executive session on litigation with Retail Ashland, LLC

The Planning Board approved a tree pruning application for Eversource and granted a request for a developer to reapply to the ZBA for single-family homes at 0 Sewell Street. The board also voted not to pursue accessory dwelling unit bylaw changes for the spring Town Meeting. In executive session, the board authorized a settlement to remove operating hour restrictions for a Starbucks at 399 Union Street.

• Approved Eversource Scenic Road pruning application (4-0-0)
• Granted request for 0 Sewell Street to reapply to ZBA for two single-family homes (5-0-0)
• Continued 9-49 Homer Ave Site Plan and Special Permit application to April 13, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Continued 10-60 Main St Special Permit and Site Plan Review hearing to April 13, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Voted not to pursue accessory dwelling units for the spring Town Meeting (3-1-1)
• Authorized settlement to strike condition #11 regarding hours of operation for 399 Union Street (5-0-0)

Select Board

The Finance Committee, School Committee, and Select Board are meeting to discuss the FY24 budget. The body will also discuss modifications to the Special Education Stabilization Fund Policy.

• FY24 Budget discussion
• Special Education Stabilization Fund Policy modification

The Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee each voted to adjust the language of the Special Education Stabilization Fund policy. This change allows the fund to be used for fluctuating special education costs, out-of-district tuition, and transportation, with annual appropriations limited to $250,000.

• Select Board approved Special Education Stabilization Fund policy change (5-0)
• School Committee approved Special Education Stabilization Fund policy change (4-0-1)
• Finance Committee approved Special Education Stabilization Fund policy change (6-0-1)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the FY24 Budget. The body will also discuss a modification to the Special Education Stabilization Fund Policy.

• FY24 Budget discussion
• Special Education Stabilization Fund Policy modification

The Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee each voted to update the Special Education Stabilization Fund language to allow the fund to be used for budgetary purposes. The boards also discussed the FY24 budget, noting a deficit of over $750,000 and various unfunded department and school requests.

• Select Board approved Special Education Stabilization Fund language change (5-0)
• School Committee approved Special Education Stabilization Fund language change (4-0-1)
• Finance Committee approved Special Education Stabilization Fund language change (6-0-1)

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee will meet to adopt a final mission statement and establish four new subcommittees. The body will also consider several candidates for associate membership and discuss 2023 public programming.

• Final review and adoption of Mission Statement
• Formation of Forestry, Trails and Recreation, Education and Promotion, and Land Acquisition Recommendations subcommittees
• Consideration of Rob St. Germain for Associate Member
• Introduction of associate member candidates Denise Carroll, Rugved Rane, Thomas Caywood, and Jacob Kasprzyk
• Discussion of Bungalow Clean Up

The committee approved a formal mission statement to preserve and protect the Town Forest. Rob St. Germain was appointed as an associate member, and a mushroom walk was approved for June 25 with harvesting restrictions.

• Approved amended February 8, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-1)
• Appointed Rob St. Germain as associate member (4-1-0)
• Approved formal Mission Statement (5-0-0)
• Approved June 25 mushroom walk with restriction on mushroom removal (5-0-0)
• Appointed Cara Hulme to the Comprehensive Plan Project Committee

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to discuss the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding modifications to the Special Education Stabilization Fund Policy.

• Discussion of FY24 Budget
• Discussion of modification to the Special Education Stabilization Fund Policy

The Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee each voted to adjust the language of the Special Education Stabilization Fund policy. The new rules limit annual appropriations to $250,000 and cap the fund balance at $600,000. The boards also discussed FY24 budget deficits and staffing shortages.

• Select Board approved Special Education Stabilization Fund policy change (5-0)
• School Committee approved Special Education Stabilization Fund policy change (4-0-1)
• Finance Committee approved Special Education Stabilization Fund policy change (6-0-1)

Board of Health

The Ashland Board of Health will hold a public hearing on a septic variance request for 243 Olive Street. The board will also discuss groundwater regulations, updates on housing cases at 137 Pond Street, and a burst water pipe at EZ Convenience Store. Other items include an update on the Remote Area Medical clinic and planning for in-person meetings.

• Septic variance request, 243 Olive Street
• Ashland Groundwater Regulation discussion with Town Manager Michael Herbert
• Update on 137 Pond Street and other housing cases
• EZ Convenience Store, 69 Pond Street, burst water pipe
• Remote Area Medical (RAM) Clinic update for August 12-13, 2023

The Board of Health approved two variances for a septic system at 243 Olive Street to allow for reduced groundwater separation and the prohibition of a garbage disposal. The board also approved the consent agenda and tabled the Ashland Groundwater Regulation.

• Approved variance for 243 Olive Street to prohibit garbage disposal with deed recording (5-0)
• Approved variance for 243 Olive Street to reduce seasonal high groundwater separation from 4-feet to 3-feet (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including February 21, 2023 minutes and FY2023 YTD Budget Report (5-0)
• Tabled Ashland Groundwater Regulation until the next meeting

Design Review Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss proposed changes to design review triggers and site plan review application requirements. Members will also review parking lot bylaws and design guidelines to present to the Planning Board.

• Proposed bylaw changes to design review triggers (section 9.6)
• Proposed changes to site plan review application requirements (section 9.4)
• Discussion of parking lot bylaws and design
• Review of planting intro and guideline fact sheets
• Review of parking guidelines

The committee unanimously voted to assign members to specific tasks including the sustainability checklist, comprehensive plan, scenic roads, signage guidelines, and reporting templates. Other agenda items regarding parking lot bylaws and design review triggers were not discussed.

• Assigned Cathy Rooney and Ujwala Pawnarkar to Sustainability checklist (Unanimous)
• Assigned Bill Novakowski to Comprehensive Plan (Unanimous)
• Assigned Brendan Carey to Scenic Roads (Unanimous)
• Assigned Hannah Stein to Signage Guidelines (Unanimous)
• Assigned Kevin Mowatt and Brendan Carey to Reporting Documents for Reviews template (Unanimous)