Ashland public meetings in 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on two Comprehensive Permit requests under Chapter 40B. One petition seeks to build a four‑story elevator building with 116 rental units at 55 West Union Street. The other petition proposes two multifamily buildings with 250 apartments and 337 parking spaces at 10‑60 Main Street, plus conversion of a 7,500‑sq‑ft mill space to commercial use.

• 55 West Union Street – 40B Comprehensive Permit for a four‑story building with 116 rental units (87 market, 29 income‑restricted) on 4.9 acres
• 10‑60 Main Street – 40B Comprehensive Permit for two multifamily buildings with 250 apartments and 337 concealed podium parking spaces
• 10‑60 Main Street – proposal to restore and convert 7,500 sq ft of northern mill space to commercial and retail use

The Zoning Board voted 4‑0‑0 to continue the public hearing for 55 West Union Street to January 27, 2026. It approved forming a working group to study the sewer relocation, and granted procedural waivers for several storm‑water and design requirements. The Board also set the next discussion on the 10‑60 Main Street permit for January 13, 2026.

• Continued public hearing for 55 West Union Street to Jan 27, 2026 (4‑0‑0)
• Approved formation of a working group (applicant engineer, town peer reviewer, DPW Director) to address sewer relocation
• Granted waiver #14 – Building Design Standards, subject to compliance with final site plans
• Granted procedural waiver #23 – Stormwater Management and Illicit Discharges, applicant must follow MassDEP regulations
• Granted procedural waiver #38 – Stormwater Management, applicant must follow state regulations
• Scheduled further discussion of 10‑60 Main Street permit for Jan 13, 2026

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority will meet to approve November minutes, November-December payables, and a low bid for a generator project. The meeting will be followed by a resident holiday party.

• Approval of November 24, 2025 minutes
• Approval of November-December 2025 payables
• Approval of EOHLC Property Insurance Contract
• Approval of low bid for Generator Project
• Discussion of Net Metering update

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing. The hearing will consider a petition from The Gutierrez Company for a Comprehensive Permit under M.G.L. Chapter 40B, Sections 20‑23. The permit would allow a five‑story multifamily building with 226 apartment units and 391 parking spaces at 61 Waverly Street in the Wildwood Mixed Used Special District D. The board will decide whether to approve the permit.

• Public hearing on petition for a 40B Comprehensive Permit at 61 Waverly Street – proposed 5‑story, 226‑unit building with 391 parking spaces

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted 2‑1‑0 to adopt the draft Decision for the 40B comprehensive permit at 61 Waverly Street. The approved Decision, including conditions and waivers, must be filed with the Town Clerk by December 24, 2025. The Board also continued the 55 West Union Street comprehensive permit application to January 13, 2026. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous 3‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved draft Decision for 61 Waverly Street 40B Comprehensive Permit (2-1-0)
• Continued 55 West Union Street comprehensive permit application to Jan 13, 2026
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission will hold a remote meeting on December 22, 2025, to hear requests for stormwater management permits and notices of intent for wetlands projects. The body will also review meeting minutes and discuss changes to the 2026 schedule.

• Request for Stormwater Management Permit, 240-260 Pleasant Street
• Notice of Intent, 90 Waverly Street
• Request for Determination of Applicability, 0 and 175 Oak Street
• Review Minutes from 12/1/2025
• Review Minutes from 12/8/2025

The Ashland Conservation Commission unanimously closed the Abbreviated Notices of Resource Area Delineation for Cross Street and Olive Street and issued Orders of Resource Area Delineation confirming the wetland boundaries. The commission also continued hearings for Oak Street and Caroline Road to January 12, 2026, and scheduled site visits for Oak Street (Dec 29) and Caroline Road (Jan 3). All motions passed with a 5‑0‑0 vote.

• Closed ANRAD for 0 Cross Street, Map 18 Parcel 82 (5-0-0)
• Issued Order of Resource Area Delineation for 0 Cross Street, Map 18 Parcel 82 (5-0-0)
• Closed ANRAD for 0 and 120 Olive Street, DEP 95-1015 (5-0-0)
• Issued Order of Resource Area Delineation for 0 and 120 Olive Street (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 0 and 175 Oak Street to Jan 12, 2026 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 0 Caroline Road to Jan 12, 2026 (5-0-0)
• Scheduled site visit for 0 and 175 Oak Street on Dec 29 at 3:30 PM
• Scheduled site walk for 0 Caroline Road on Jan 3 at 9:00 AM

Ashland Middle School Site Council

The Ashland Middle School Site Council meeting on December 17, 2025 includes public comment, a review of minutes from October 22, 2025, and a discussion of the school budget. The council will also receive a school update, an update on grading data, and a brainstorming session for future site council topics. No formal decisions are listed beyond these discussion items.

• Public comment
• Review of minutes from October 22, 2025
• Budget discussion
• School update
• Grading data and update

Board of Health

The Ashland Board of Health meeting on Dec. 16, 2025 will consider several agenda items. The board will hold a Tobacco Regulations Violation hearing for Main Street Wine and Spirits and will approve 2026 permits for a long list of retail food, food establishments, residential kitchens, tobacco, animal, septic installer and septic hauler operators. The board will also consider exterior grease‑trap waivers for a few entities and will review FY2026 year‑to‑date budget reports. Additional items include the Health Director’s updates on training, software, a flu vaccine clinic for uninsured/underinsured, and disease investigations.

• Tobacco Regulations Violation Hearing – Main Street Wine and Spirits
• Approval of 2026 permits for retail food and related businesses (e.g., 272 Pond LLC d/b/a Mobil Mart, AFC Sushi at Shaw's #1419, Market Basket, CVS Pharmacy #1875, etc.)
• Approval of Exterior Grease Trap Waivers for AFC Sushi @ Shaws, Ashland Fish and Game Club, Inc., and Ashland Memorial Associates, VFW
• Consent agenda to review and approve FY2026 YTD Budget Reports and adopt November 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Health Director’s agenda items: Flu Vaccine Clinic for Uninsured/Underinsured (Dec 3, 2025) and State Action for Public Health Excellence (SAPHE) 2.0

The Board voted 3‑0‑0 to approve the 2026 Retail Food, Food Establishment, Tobacco, Residential Kitchen, Septic Hauler, Septic Installer, and Animal/Equine permits, with specified exceptions. The Exterior Grease Trap Waivers were also approved unanimously. The consent agenda, including the FY2026 YTD budget report, was approved 3‑0‑0.

• Approved Retail Food Permits (except CVS Pharmacy) – vote 3-0-0
• Approved Food Establishment Permits – vote 3-0-0
• Approved Tobacco Licenses – vote 3-0-0
• Approved Residential Kitchen Permits – vote 3-0-0
• Approved Septic Hauler Permits – vote 3-0-0
• Approved Septic Installer Permits – vote 3-0-0
• Approved Animal/Equine Permits (except Elizabeth and John Byrnes) – vote 3-0-0
• Approved Exterior Grease Trap Waivers – vote 3-0-0

Keefe Technical School Budget Sub-Committee

The Keefe Technical School Budget Sub‑Committee will hear budget presentations for School Finance/Human Resources, salaries for all departments, district‑wide technology, and fixed charges/transportation/capital benefits. After the presentations, the sub‑committee will vote on a preliminary budget for the school. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. in Committee Meeting Room 226.

• Budget presentation: School Finance/Human Resources
• Budget presentation: Salaries – All Departments
• Budget presentation: District‑Wide Technology
• Budget presentation: Fixed Charges/Transportation/Capital Benefits
• Vote on preliminary budget by sub‑committee

Mindess School Building Committee

The Mindess School Building Committee will discuss updates on ongoing work, IDS/HVAC, budget and project teams. It will consider consent actions to approve invoices, report approved expenditures and change requests, and adopt the November 18, 2025 meeting minutes. No other decisions are listed.

• Approval of invoices
• Report of approved expenditures and change requests
• Approval of November 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Updates on ongoing work
• Updates on IDS/HVAC, budget, and project teams

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee Safety Sub‑Committee will meet on Dec. 11, 2025. After public comment, the committee will conduct ALICE training and approve minutes from October and November 2025. The meeting will then go into executive session to discuss deployment of security personnel or devices and related strategies. No other decisions are listed.

• Public comment period
• ALICE safety training
• Approval of October and November 2025 meeting minutes
• Executive session to discuss deployment of security personnel or devices
• General updates

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings for two development projects: a full-service YMCA and a mixed-use building. The board will also review a decision regarding a natural gas modification at 501 Pond Street.

• Public hearing for a 12.55-acre YMCA development at 30 Memorial Drive
• Public hearing for a three-floor mixed-use building with 14 apartments and 2 contractor bays at 55 Tilton Avenue
• Decision review for natural gas modification at 501 Pond Street
• Discussion of the Housing Production Plan and 40Bs/SHI updates

The Board approved continuances for the 30 Memorial Drive YMCA hearing and the 55 Tilton Avenue special permit review, both to be heard on January 8, 2026. The November 6, 2025 minutes were accepted as amended. Board members signed the final decision for the 501 Pond Street natural‑gas modification for filing.

• Continuance of 30 Memorial Drive YMCA hearing to Jan 8 2026 (5-0-0)
• Continuance of 55 Tilton Avenue special permit and site‑plan review to Jan 8 2026 (5-0-0)
• Accept November 6 2025 minutes as amended (5-0-0)
• Board members signed the 501 Pond Street natural‑gas modification decision
• Adjourn meeting at 9:22 PM (5-0-0)

Keefe Technical School Budget Sub-Committee

The Keefe Technical School Budget Sub-Committee will meet to review budget presentations for Guidance and Admissions, Special Education, Academic Areas, and Vocational and Co-Operative Areas. The meeting is scheduled for December 10, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. in the Keefe Tech School Committee Room 226.

• Guidance and Admissions budget presentation
• Special Education budget presentation
• Academic Areas budget presentation
• Vocational and Co-Operative Areas budget presentation
• Meeting location: Keefe Tech School Committee Room 226

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will discuss and vote on recommended tuition rate increases for the FY27 preschool program and the Pittaway rate increase for FY2027. The meeting also includes updates from the Student Advisory Council, English language education, and the superintendent's goals. Consent agenda items such as gifts, donations, and grant funds will be approved.

• FY27 Preschool Tuition Rate Increase Recommendations
• Pittaway Rate Increase FY’2027
• Superintendent’s Goals
• AHS Student Advisory Council Update
• English Language Education Update

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will meet on December 10, 2025 at 6:00 pm in Town Hall. The meeting will open with a call to order and then discuss the town’s FY 27 budget. No other agenda items are listed.

• Discuss FY 27 budget

Select Board

The Finance Committee, School Committee, and Select Board will meet jointly to discuss the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The meeting is scheduled for December 10, 2025, at 6:00 pm at Town Hall.

• FY 27 Budget discussion
• Joint meeting of Finance, School, and Select Boards
• Meeting location: Town Hall, 101 Main Street

The Board adopted an advisory motion to back Option 3, setting a base override amount of $2.75 million with a ceiling of $2.95 million; the final amount will be decided by the Town Manager at a later meeting. The Board also approved a motion to adjourn the meeting.

• Approved advisory motion supporting Option 3 override $2.75M base, $2.95M ceiling (unanimous in favor)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (5‑0‑0)

Town Forest Committee

The Ashland Town Forest Committee will approve minutes from the November 12 meeting and review expense submittals, including a possible purchase of a speaker or megaphone for guided walks. The committee will address UTV repairs and receive updates from its subcommittees on forestry, trails, education, and land acquisition. An executive session will be held to discuss land protection and acquisition of abutting parcels of the Town Forest. Additional items include setting goals for 2026 and reviewing the committee’s decision‑making process.

• Approve minutes from the November 12, 2025 meeting
• Consider buying a speaker or megaphone for guided walks
• Discuss next steps for UTV repairs
• Apply for a CISMA grant for barberry pulling (deadline Dec 19)
• Executive session to discuss land protection and acquisition of abutting parcels of the Town Forest

Finance Committee

The Ashland Finance Committee meeting on December 10, 2025 will begin at 6:00 pm in Town Hall, 101 Main Street. The committee will discuss the town’s fiscal year 2027 budget. No other agenda items are listed.

• Discuss FY 27 Budget

The committee adopted an advisory motion to back a permanent override (Option 3) with a base amount of $2.75 million and a ceiling of $2.95 million. The motion passed unanimously. The Select Board will make the final decision on the exact amount at its Jan 7 2026 meeting. A motion to adjourn the meeting also passed 7‑0.

• Approved advisory motion supporting Option 3 override $2.75M base, $2.95M ceiling (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (7‑0)

Keefe Technical School Budget Sub-Committee

The Budget Sub-Committee will meet to hear budget presentations from four specific school departments. This meeting is part of the financial planning process for the Keefe Technical School.

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

Historical Commission

The Ashland Historical Commission will meet to approve prior minutes and discuss updates for the Village Burial Ground and the Local Historic District. The agenda also includes setting a date for the next meeting.

• Approve prior meeting minutes
• Village Burial Ground updates
• Local Historic District discussion
• Set date for next meeting

The commission accepted the November 18, 2025 minutes by unanimous vote. Members agreed to establish a local historic preservation award in April and make it an annual tradition. A working‑group meeting was tentatively set for Jan 20‑22, 2025 at Dulce de Leche, and the next regular meeting was scheduled for Jan 13, 2025. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Accepted November 18, 2025 minutes (5‑0 unanimous vote)
• Agreed to create a local historic preservation award in April (no formal vote recorded)
• Tentatively scheduled working‑group meeting at Dulce de Leche Jan 20‑22, 2025, 7:30 PM
• Set next regular commission meeting for Tuesday Jan 13, 2025, 7:30 PM
• Motion to end meeting passed unanimously (5‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold continuations of public hearings on three Chapter 40B Comprehensive Permit applications. The petitions seek large multifamily developments at 55 West Union Street, 10-60 Main Street, and 61 Waverly Street, each proposing hundreds of rental units and associated parking. The board will also consider the November 18 and 25 meeting minutes and receive staff updates.

• 55 West Union Street – request for a four‑story elevator building with 116 rental units (87 market‑rate, 29 income‑restricted) on 4.9 acres in the Commercial Highway District.
• 10‑60 Main Street – request for two multifamily buildings totaling 250 apartment units, 337 concealed podium parking spaces, and conversion of 7,500 sq ft of mill space to commercial/retail in the Downtown District A and Industrial base zoning.
• 61 Waverly Street – request for a five‑story building with 226 apartment units and 391 parking spaces in the Wildwood Mixed‑Use Special District “D”.
• Review of meeting minutes from November 18 and November 25, 2025.
• Staff updates and administrative matters.

The board unanimously voted (4‑0‑0) to continue the public hearing for the 55 West Union Street 40B comprehensive permit to the December 23 meeting. It also adopted a three‑tier system for handling minor, insubstantial, and substantial changes to the project. The board agreed to defer certain water and sewer peer‑review items, allow a six‑month delay for final signage, and require a traffic‑and‑parking monitoring report within 12 months of the Certificate of Occupancy (or at 75 % occupancy).

• Continue 55 West Union Street hearing to Dec 23 (4‑0‑0 vote)
• Adopt three‑tier change review: minor changes handled by Building Commissioner; insubstantial changes need Board approval; substantial changes trigger new public hearing
• Defer Stormwater Management System O&M plan to later stage, other O&M plans conditioned on Certificate of Occupancy
• Approve six‑month delay for final signage package, with preliminary signs before CO
• Remove blasting condition from draft decision
• Require Traffic and Parking Monitoring report within 12 months of CO or at 75 % occupancy, whichever first

Roadway Traffic Safety Committee

The Roadway Traffic Study Committee will discuss traffic patterns and safety concerns across several town locations. Key items include the impact of a proposed 40B project and resident requests regarding speed limits and truck restrictions.

• Traffic impact of proposed 40B project at 61 Waverly St (potential for 300+ additional vehicles during rush hour)
• Status of High Street sidewalk construction using ARPA funding
• Resident request to restrict semi-trucks on Howe St
• Resident request to lower speed limits on Pleasant St and Cordaville Rd
• Updates on Pincushion School crosswalk signage and High St emergency gate repairs

The committee met on Dec 9, 2025 to review traffic‑related updates and resident letters. No motions or approvals were voted on; further discussion was scheduled for the Jan 13, 2026 meeting. The meeting was adjourned after a motion to adjourn was seconded.

DMS Site Council

The Ashland DMS Site Council will approve the minutes from the previous meeting. It will provide updates on upcoming events such as the Winter Solstice weekend on December 19, 2025, a handball tournament, and restorative circles with video. The council will then review the School Improvement Plan, including presentations on gardening jobs and ongoing WIN block and PLC interventions.

• Approval of the minutes
• Updates on Winter Solstice weekend (Dec 19, 2025)
• Handball tournament announcement
• Restorative circles and video update
• Review of School Improvement Plan (gardening jobs, WIN block, PLC)

Metrowest Veterans Services District

The Board of Directors will meet to review the Veteran Services Director's snapshot report and hold a consultation regarding the FY 2027 budget. The board will also establish meeting dates for FY 2026.

• FY 2027 Budget Consultation
• Snapshot report for September 26, 2025 – December 5, 2025
• Setting FY 2026 board meeting dates for March 2 and June 8, 2026

Keefe Technical School Committee

The Keefe Technical School Committee will first approve the minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting. It will then hear from guests and visitors, followed by the superintendent's report, which includes the introduction of a new member and an update on the MASC/MASS Joint Conference.

• Approval of minutes from the November 3, 2025 regular meeting
• Guests and visitors attendance
• Superintendent's report – introduction of new member
• Superintendent's report – MASC/MASS Joint Conference update

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings for several resource area delineations and stormwater permits. The body will also address enforcement orders and wetlands violations at three different locations.

• Notice of Intent and Stormwater Management Permit for 30 Memorial Drive (MetroWest YMCA)
• Stormwater Management Permit for Lot 1 Frankland Road
• Resource Area Delineations for 0 Cross Street and 0/120 Olive Street
• Determination of Applicability for fence installation at 54 High Street
• Enforcement orders for 11 Dianne Lane and 224 Oak Street

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Affordable Housing Trust will meet via Zoom to consider a vote regarding an expenditure for 487 Main Street. The meeting also includes time for other matters that may arise.

• Vote to approve 487 Main Street expenditure

Pittaway/Warren School Site Council

The Pittaway/Warren School Site Council will meet to receive updates on recent grant activity, music therapy programs, a district review, registration information for families, and the School Improvement Plan. No decisions are indicated; the agenda consists of informational items.

• Update on grants (Ashland Arts)
• Update on Music Therapy
• District Review
• Registration and Info Session for new and returning families
• School Improvement Plan update

Sustainability Committee

The committee will review and approve the previous meeting minutes, receive updates on the Energize Ashland and Sustainability Manager programs, and discuss the town’s 2025 sustainability priorities, including event planning, Ashland Public Schools engagement, community solar, and ZBA meeting coverage. No specific actions or approvals beyond the minutes are listed.

• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Sustainability training and outreach session
• 2025 Priorities Discussion – event planning, school engagement, community solar, Skip the stuff update, ZBA meeting coverage
• Energize Ashland program updates
• Sustainability Manager program updates

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to review November meeting minutes and receive reports from the Secretary and Director. The agenda includes a discussion on funding updates.

• Review and approval of November 6, 2025 meeting minutes
• Funding updates

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to discuss and address the DESE District Review Interview. Other agenda items are limited to opening procedures and public participation.

• DESE District Review Interview

Select Board

The board will certify the November 19 special town meeting vote accepting a 14.26‑acre land donation at 0 Oregon Road and vote to close the Tax Classification Hearing. It will also consider discussion items such as hunting on public land, 40‑B project updates, and a nicotine‑free generation initiative, and will vote on annual license renewals and a one‑day liquor license for Iemmallo Winery.

• Certification of the donation of 14.26 acres at 0 Oregon Road
• Vote to close the Tax Classification Hearing
• Vote on annual license renewals for multiple businesses
• Approval of One‑Day Liquor License for Iemmallo Winery (Dec 13, 2025)
• Request for Select Board Gift Account funding for Employee Recognition Event

The Board unanimously accepted a 14.26‑acre land donation at 0 Oregon Road to expand the Town Forest. It also approved the consent agenda, which included a one‑day liquor license for Iemmallo Winery on Dec. 13. The Board closed the tax classification hearing, authorized up to $1,500 for an employee recognition event, and approved the annual license renewals.

• Approved acceptance of 14.26‑acre land donation at 0 Oregon Road for Town Forest (5-0-0)
• Approved consent agenda, including one‑day liquor license for Iemmallo Winery (5-0-0)
• Closed the Tax Classification Hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved up to $1,500 funding for Employee Recognition Event (5-0-0)
• Approved Annual License Renewals (5-0-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold an executive session to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property at 10-60 Main Street. The session is closed to the public due to a determination that discussion could harm the Board's negotiating position.

• Executive session to discuss property at 10-60 Main Street
• Discussion of real property purchase, exchange, or lease
• Closed session due to potential impact on negotiating position

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for 61 Waverly Street (Map 15 Parcel 12) submitted by The Gutierrez Company. The commission will also review the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting, provide commissioner education on various topics, and sign any pending documents.

• Notice of Intent hearing for 61 Waverly Street, Map 15 Parcel 12, The Gutierrez Company
• Review minutes from the 10/20/2025 Conservation Commission meeting
• Commissioner education on various topics
• Sign pending documents

The Conservation Commission approved a three‑minute limit for each resident comment during hearings. Commissioners agreed to hold an additional off‑cycle meeting on January 5, 2026, to allow time for peer‑review responses. The applicant confirmed acceptance of the peer‑review costs as presented and the Commission affirmed that separate wetlands and storm‑water peer reviews will be conducted.

• Implemented three‑minute limit for resident comments (adopted)
• Scheduled off‑cycle meeting for Jan 5 2026 (agreed)
• Applicant accepted peer‑review cost estimates as presented (confirmed)
• Commission affirmed two separate peer reviews – wetlands and storm‑water (confirmed)

School Committee

The Wellness Sub-Committee will meet virtually to hold a discussion on goals and receive member updates. The meeting is scheduled for November 25, 2025.

• Goals discussion

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a continuance of the public hearing on the 40B Comprehensive Permit petition for 55 West Union Street, proposing a four‑story elevator building with 116 rental units on 4.9 acres. The board will also continue public hearings on 40B petitions for 10‑60 Main Street, proposing two multifamily buildings with 250 units and commercial space, and for 61 Waverly Street, proposing a five‑story building with 226 units. No decisions are scheduled; the meetings are for hearing public input on the proposals.

• 55 West Union St – 40B permit for 1 four‑story building, 116 rental units (87 market, 29 income‑restricted) on 4.9 acres
• 10‑60 Main St – 40B permit for two multifamily buildings, 250 units, 337 parking spaces, plus 7,500 sq ft commercial conversion
• 61 Waverly St – 40B permit for one five‑story building, 226 units and 391 parking spaces

The board approved motions to continue the public hearing for 55 West Union Street to December 9, 2025 at 7:00 PM, with a 4‑0‑0 vote. It also closed public comment, and approved continuation of the hearing for 10‑60 Main Street and the deliberation for 61 Waverly Street to the same date and time, each passing 4‑0‑0. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous 4‑0‑0 vote.

• Continue public hearing – 55 West Union Street to Dec 9 2025 (4‑0‑0)
• Close public comment (4‑0‑0)
• Continue hearing – 10‑60 Main Street to Dec 9 2025 (4‑0‑0)
• Continue deliberations – 61 Waverly Street to Dec 9 2025 (4‑0‑0)
• Adjourn meeting (4‑0‑0)

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority board will consider approval of the November 3, 2025 meeting minutes and the October‑November 2025 payables. The board will revisit the net metering host contract policy. It will discuss the generator project year‑end review and certification, and hold a tenant open forum.

• Approval of minutes of the November 3, 2025 meeting
• Approval of October‑November 2025 payables
• Revisit net metering host contract policy
• Generator project year‑end review and certification
• Tenant open forum

Sustainability Committee

The committee will review and approve the minutes from the previous meeting. It will provide training and outreach on sustainability topics and discuss the town’s 2025 sustainability priorities, such as community solar and school engagement. Updates from the Energize Ashland program and the Sustainability Manager will be presented. The meeting will conclude with any other business.

• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Sustainability training and outreach session
• Discussion of 2025 priorities including community solar and school engagement
• Energize Ashland program updates
• Sustainability Manager updates

The Sustainability Committee approved the minutes from the October 20 and November 6 meetings. Todd Ching was officially confirmed as a committee member. The chair was given an action item to follow up with Skip the Stuff on cafeteria‑waste strategies. The next meeting was set for December 4 at 7 pm on Zoom.

• Approved minutes from 10/20 and 11/6
• Confirmed Todd Ching as a committee member
• Assigned follow‑up with Skip the Stuff to Chair Ashwin Ratanchandani
• Scheduled next meeting for 12/4 at 7 pm on Zoom

Ashland Middle School Site Council

The School Site Council will meet to discuss school updates and grading data. Members will also brainstorm future topics for council discussion.

• Review of October 22, 2025 minutes
• Grading data and update
• Brainstorming for site council discussion

Town Meeting

At the special town meeting, Ashland will consider a series of warrant articles. The primary item is a $3,022,462 transfer from the Free Cash account to the General Stabilization Fund, OPEB Trust Fund, Special Education Stabilization Fund, and Capital Fund. Additional measures include a $154,236 budget adjustment for FY 2026, a change to senior‑citizen property‑tax exemption to 12%, and several Community Preservation Committee appropriations for forest and environmental projects.

• Transfer $3,022,462 from Free Cash to General Stabilization, OPEB Trust, SPED Stabilization, and Capital funds
• Raise and appropriate $154,236 for FY 2026 budget adjustments (School $136,121, Conservation $20,000, Inspection $20,000, Treasurer‑Collector $18,337, Keefe Tech reduction $40,222)
• Adjust senior‑citizen property‑tax exemption to 12% effective July 1 2025
• Appropriate up to $40,000 for Town Forest survey work and property appraisal
• Appropriate up to $50,000 for field data collection and invasive vegetation management at Beaverdam Brook Conservation Area

The Special Town Meeting unanimously approved a resolution barring Ashland departments from procuring goods or services from Musk‑controlled companies and from using the X social media platform for official communication. Voters also approved a $3,022,462 transfer of free cash to various town funds and a $154,236 budget amendment for the FY 2026 budget. The senior‑citizen property‑tax exemption was increased to 12%, and $40,000 was appropriated for a Town Forest survey and appraisal. All actions were adopted by unanimous vote.

• Approved Musk‑ownership procurement ban and X platform restriction (unanimous)
• Approved $3,022,462 free‑cash transfer to Stabilization, OPEB, SPED, Capital and General funds (unanimous)
• Approved $154,236 budget amendment for school, conservation, inspection, treasurer‑collector and Keefe Tech (unanimous)
• Approved increase of senior property‑tax exemption to 12% (unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 appropriation for Town Forest survey and appraisal work (unanimous)
• Approved Update Dog Kennel Bylaw (passed)
• Approved Acceptance of Conservation Restriction (passed)
• Withdrawn CPC Funding for Nature's Edge project (withdrawn)

Select Board

The Select Board will open the meeting, handle routine consent agenda items, and discuss the Special Town Meeting Warrant. No other specific actions are listed. The meeting may also include standard procedural business such as adjournment.

• Discuss the Special Town Meeting Warrant

Select Board

The Select Board will hold an executive session to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property located at 10-60 Main Street. The session is closed to the public because discussion could affect the Board's negotiating position. No other items are listed.

• Consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property at 10-60 Main Street (executive session)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet on November 19, 2025 at the Ashland High School Library. Members will consider approval of the draft minutes from the November 10 town meeting and address any outstanding town‑meeting warrant articles. The agenda also includes public comment, other business, and scheduling future meetings.

• Approve draft minutes from November 10, 2025
• Consider outstanding November town‑meeting warrant articles
• Public comment
• Other business not anticipated by the Chair
• Schedule future meetings

The committee voted unanimously to recommend that the town approve the free cash transfer outlined in Article 1, allocating about $1.8 million to the Stabilization Fund, $302,000 to the OPEB Trust, $210,000 to the Special Education Stabilization Fund, and the remainder to the Capital Budget. It also voted unanimously to recommend that the town endorse the Comprehensive Plan presented in Article 16. Both motions passed with a 7‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 7:56 pm.

• Approved recommendation to adopt Free Cash transfer (Article 1) – vote 7-0
• Approved recommendation to endorse Comprehensive Plan (Article 16) – vote 7-0
• Adjourned meeting – vote 7-0

Town Meeting

The Select Board is sponsoring Article 1, which asks Town Meeting to authorize the acquisition of a parcel at 0 Oregon Road, about 14.26 acres, to expand the Town Forest and dedicate it as Article 97 land. The Finance Committee recommends that the Select Board be authorized to negotiate and execute all necessary documents for the acquisition. The meeting will vote on this land acquisition, which requires a two‑thirds majority.

• Article 1 – Accept Donnelly Gift Parcel: acquisition of ~14.26 acres at 0 Oregon Road for Town Forest expansion and dedication as Article 97 land.
• Finance Committee recommendation to authorize the Select Board to negotiate and execute documents needed for the acquisition.

Board of Health

The Ashland Board of Health will consider updates on several health and safety topics, including repeated trash and dumpster violations at Cirrus Apartments and a discussion of the Nicotine‑Free Generation program. The Health Director will report on upcoming items such as the Tobacco Regulation Violation hearing scheduled for the December meeting and the Drug Take‑Back Day held on October 25 at the Ashland Community Center. A consent agenda will be used to approve the FY2026 YTD budget reports and adopt the October 21 meeting minutes. Future agenda items such as tobacco regulation review, well regulation review, permit renewals, and grease‑trap waivers will also be discussed.

• Cirrus Apartments – repeated trash/dumpster violations (update)
• Tobacco Regulation Violation hearing scheduled for December meeting
• Consent agenda: review and approve FY2026 YTD budget reports
• Drug Take‑Back Day at Ashland Community Center – October 25
• Unpermitted chickens reported at 237 Pleasant Street

The Board granted Cirrus Apartments an additional two weeks to correct dumpster violations and warned that citations will follow if compliance is not achieved. The Consent Agenda, including the FY2026 year‑to‑date budget report and the October 21 meeting minutes, was approved unanimously (5‑0‑0). The Board also decided to defer discussion of the Nicotine‑Free Generation and related items to a future meeting.

• Extended Cirrus Apartments dumpster compliance deadline by two weeks; citations pending if not met (unanimous agreement)
• Approved FY2026 YTD Budget Reports and October 21 minutes (Consent Agenda) – vote 5-0-0
• Adjourned the meeting – vote 5-0-0
• Deferred Nicotine‑Free Generation policy discussion to a future meeting
• Postponed Tobacco Regulation Violation hearing to December meeting; $1,000 fine already paid

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss updates regarding the Village Burial Ground, the Local Historic District, the Burnhams, and mill buildings.

• Village Burial Ground updates
• Local Historic District discussion
• Burnhams discussion
• Mill buildings discussion

The Historical Commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes from June, September, and October 2025. The commission set the next meeting for December 9, 2025 at 7:30 PM. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:35 PM was also passed unanimously. No other actions were decided.

• Approved June, September, October 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for Dec 9, 2025 at 7:30 PM
• Approved motion to adjourn at 8:35 PM (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold continuations of public hearings for 40B Comprehensive Permit applications at 55 West Union Street, 10-60 Main Street, and a deliberation at 61 Waverly Street. These petitions seek large multifamily developments ranging from 116 to 250 rental units and associated parking. The agenda also includes review of October meeting minutes, staff updates, and administrative matters.

• Continuance of public hearing – 55 West Union Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit
• Continuance of public hearing – 10-60 Main Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit
• Deliberation – 61 Waverly Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit
• Meeting minutes: October 14 and October 28
• Staff updates and administrative matters

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted to postpone the public hearings for 55 West Union Street, 10-60 Main Street, and the deliberation on 61 Waverly Street to November 25, 2025. The Board also appointed Chair John Trefethen as its representative to a forthcoming working session. Prior meeting minutes from October 14 and October 28 were approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Continuance of 55 West Union St hearing to Nov 25, 2025 (vote 4-0-0)
• Continuance of 10-60 Main St hearing to Nov 25, 2025 (vote 4-0-0)
• Continuance of deliberations on 61 Waverly St to Nov 25, 2025 (vote 4-0-0)
• Appointment of John Trefethen as representative to the working session
• Approval of October 14, 2025 meeting minutes (vote 4-0-0)
• Approval of October 28, 2025 meeting minutes (vote 4-0-0)
• Adjournment of the meeting (vote 4-0-0)

Mindess School Building Committee

The Mindess School Building Committee will discuss ongoing work, IDS/HVAC, budget/MSBA, and project team updates. It will approve invoices and report on approved expenditures and change requests. The committee will also approve minutes from the September 16 and October 21, 2025 meetings.

• Ongoing Work Update
• IDS/HVAC Update
• Budget/MSBA Updates
• Approval of Invoices
• Approval of September 16 and October 21, 2025 meeting minutes

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission will hold public hearings at 7:05 p.m. on several Notice of Intent and stormwater management permit applications for properties on Waverly Street, Memorial Drive, Algonquin Trail, Captain Eames Circle, and Pleasant Street. The meeting will also consider two requests for Certificates of Compliance, an emergency tree removal certification, updates and ratifications of enforcement orders, and a wetlands violation at 0 Pond Street. Additional items include reviewing the 2026 meeting schedule, past meeting minutes, and commissioner education topics.

• Notice of Intent – 61 Waverly Street, Gutierrez Company (DEP file not yet issued)
• Notice of Intent – 90 Waverly Street, Victor Mourao (DEP 95-1003)
• Notice of Intent & Stormwater Permit – 30 Memorial Drive, Rick Macpherson/MetroWest YMCA (DEP 95-1009)
• Stormwater Permit Request – 240‑260 Pleasant Street, Metrowest Facilities, LLC (Map 13 Parcel 108‑109)
• Emergency Certification – 198 Cordaville Road, Claire Giargiari (emergency tree removal)

The commission discussed the 61 Waverly Street development and raised concerns about the stormwater connection and drainage on Waverly Street. Commissioners agreed to schedule a site walk on Sunday, November 23 at 8:00 a.m. and to obtain a separate peer review of the entire proposal, including the drainage system. No formal approvals, denials, or vote tallies were recorded.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings on zoning changes for in-law apartments and several site plan reviews. The board will also consider a special permit modification for wireless equipment at 117 Oregon Road.

• Zoning Bylaws Amendment to add Section 7.8 regarding In-law Apartments
• 55 Tilton Ave: Proposed three-floor mixed-use building with 14 apartments and 2 contractor bays
• 30 Memorial Drive: Proposed 12.55-acre YMCA development including an Early Learning Center and soccer fields
• 240-260 Pleasant Street: Proposed 1.9-acre youth soccer field and playground for MetroWest Facilities LLC
• 117 Oregon Road: Verizon Wireless request to install 5G-capable equipment and three new antennas

The Planning Board approved a special permit modification for the cell tower at 117 Oregon Road with a 4‑0‑0 vote. It also voted to continue the In‑Law Apartments zoning amendment hearing and the 240‑260 Pleasant Street project to January 8, 2026, each by 3‑0‑0. The board accepted the October 23 meeting minutes (3‑0‑0) and postponed the 55 Tilton Avenue special permit and site‑plan review to January 8, 2026 (4‑0‑0).

• Approved special permit modification for 117 Oregon Road cell tower (4-0-0)
• Continued In‑Law Apartments zoning amendment hearing to Jan 8, 2026 (3-0-0)
• Continued 240‑260 Pleasant Street MetroWest Facilities hearing to Jan 8, 2026 (3-0-0)
• Accepted Oct 23 meeting minutes as presented (3-0-0)
• Continued 55 Tilton Ave special permit & site‑plan review to Jan 8, 2026 (4-0-0)

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee will review expense reports and consider purchasing equipment like a speaker. The meeting includes updates on forestry, trails, and education, and will discuss land protection in an executive session.

• Approval of October 8th meeting minutes
• Consideration of speaker or megaphone purchase
• Discussion of Tree of Heaven treatment
• Update on FLY project (Pollinator Garden)
• Discussion of land protection in executive session

The Town Forest Committee approved its November 12 minutes and a $592 expense submittal, both unanimously. Members voted 4‑0‑0 to install location markers along the Cave Loop and to approve a forest bathing event proposal. The meeting was adjourned after scheduling the next meeting for December 10, 2025.

• Minutes of 10-08-25 approved (4-0-0)
• $592 expense approved, leaving $1,807.74 balance for FY 2026 (4-0-0)
• Location markers along the Cave Loop installed (4-0-0)
• Forest bathing event proposal approved (4-0-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (4-0-0)
• Next meeting scheduled for 12-10-25 (decision without recorded vote)

Ashland High School Site Council

The Ashland High School Site Council will meet on November 12, 2025 at 4:00 pm in the AHS Library. Council members will review a recent survey, including updates from DESE curriculum development and discipline matters. They will also consider future agenda items such as a budget review, a counseling presentation, and a wellness presentation.

• Public comment period
• Approval of minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting
• Review of the recent survey
• Discussion of DESE curriculum development updates
• Discussion of discipline updates and planning future agenda topics

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss and vote on articles for the November Town Meeting Warrant. The committee will also review draft minutes from the October 22, 2025, Tri-Board meeting.

• Vote on November Town Meeting Warrant Articles
• Approval of October 22, 2025 Tri-Board draft minutes

The committee approved the FY 2026 budget amendment adjusting state aid and assessments and set the senior property tax exemption to 12%. It also approved Community Preservation Fund appropriations for a town‑forest survey, Beaverdam Brook conservation work, and a high‑school softball field resurfacing. Additional actions included adopting updates to the Dog Kennel Bylaw, authorizing the purchase of 0 Oregon Road, accepting a conservation restriction, and rejecting the Elon Musk resolution. All motions passed unanimously (votes 5‑0 or 6‑0), while the free‑cash transfer article was tabled pending certification.

• Approved FY 2026 budget amendment (5‑0)
• Approved senior property tax exemption adjustment to 12% (5‑0)
• Approved $40,000 CPA appropriation for Town Forest survey (6‑0)
• Approved $50,000 CPA appropriation for Beaverdam Brook conservation (6‑0)
• Approved $25,000 CPA appropriation for high school softball field surface (6‑0)
• Approved amendments to the Dog Kennel Bylaw (6‑0)
• Approved acquisition of 0 Oregon Road (6‑0)
• Rejected Elon Musk resolution as not feasible (6‑0)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to review previous minutes, discuss how residents can engage with new developments, and outline 2025 priorities including community solar and public schools engagement. The meeting will also include updates on the Energize Ashland initiative.

• Review and approve previous minutes
• Discussion on engaging with new developments
• 2025 priorities discussion (community solar, public schools)
• Energize Ashland updates
• Sustainability Manager updates

The committee welcomed resident Elham Arabi and noted her interest in joining. Members discussed how to educate developers, planning board members, and town departments about sustainable building practices and suggested creating up‑to‑date resources for residents. Updates were given on upcoming meetings, the Town Meeting on 11/19, the Gingerbread House event on 12/13, and the Energize Ashland Heat Pump Pizza Party grant. No formal actions or votes were recorded.

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee Safety Sub‑Committee meeting will open with public comment, then review an emergency response team debrief, provide updates on e‑bike policy and the high school audio system, and give general updates. Afterward, the committee will move into an executive session to discuss deployment of security personnel or devices, as permitted by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 30A. No formal decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Stay In Place – Emergency Response Team debrief
• E‑Bike policy update
• Audio system update for Ashland High School
• General updates
• Executive session on security personnel or device deployment

Council on Aging

The Ashland Council on Aging will review and approve the October 2, 2025 meeting minutes, receive a funding update, and discuss support for Springwell. The agenda also includes routine items such as a mission statement reading, guest introductions, and reports from the secretary, director, and citizen participation.

• Review and approve October 2, 2025 meeting minutes
• Funding update in Monthly Updates
• New Business: Springwell support

The board approved the October 2, 2025 meeting minutes with a 5‑0 vote. A decision was made to hold the Memory Cafe on Tuesdays beginning in January. The meeting was adjourned at 11:30 a.m. with a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved October 2, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Changed Memory Cafe to Tuesdays starting January (decision)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a joint session with the Select Board to vote on a new associate member. The board will also conduct a public hearing for a YMCA development and review several special permit modifications and a subdivision request.

• Vote on associate member candidate Angel Khazadian
• Public hearing for YMCA development at 30 Memorial Drive (12.55 acres)
• T-Mobile request to install 5G equipment at 117 Oregon Road
• WinnDevelopment Company request for a one-year extension at 501 Pond Street
• Singh Brothers Properties LLC request for a 4-home subdivision at 0 Caroline Road

The Board unanimously appointed Angel Khazadian as an Associate Member of the Planning Board (9‑0‑0 vote). The Board voted 5‑0‑0 to continue the special permit and design review for the YMCA project at 30 Memorial Drive to the November 13 hearing. The Board approved a one‑year extension of the Site Plan and Special Permit for 501 Pond Street and authorized a change to allow gas for domestic hot water, by a 4‑0‑0 vote.

• Appointed Angel Khazadian as Associate Member (9-0-0)
• Continued 30 Memorial Drive YMCA special permit review to Nov 13 (5-0-0)
• Approved one-year extension of 501 Pond Street Site Plan and Special Permit to Dec 2027 (4-0-0)
• Approved amendment permitting gas for domestic hot water at 501 Pond Street (4-0-0)

Select Board

The Select Board and Planning Board will meet jointly to consider and vote on appointing a new associate member. The candidate listed for the position is Angel Khazadian. The agenda also includes the standard call to order and adjournment.

• Call meeting to order
• Review and vote on appointment of new associate member – candidate Angel Khazadian
• Adjournment

The joint Select Board and Planning Board voted to appoint Angel Khazadian as the Planning Board’s Associate Member, filling the open seat for the remainder of a three‑year term. The motion passed unanimously with a 9‑0‑0 roll‑call vote. The board then adjourned the meeting by a 4‑0‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved appointment of Angel Khazadian as Associate Member (9-0-0)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (4-0-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet via Zoom to discuss the percentage rate for the Chapter 41C1/2 Senior Exemption.

• Discussion of percentage rate for Chapter 41C1/2 Senior Exemption

The Board of Assessors adopted a single tax rate, passing the motion 2‑0. It also set the Chapter 41C exemption percentage to 12%, passing 2‑0. The meeting was adjourned after the motions were approved.

• Adopt single tax rate (2-0)
• Set Chapter 41C exemption percent to 12% (2-0)
• Adjourn meeting (2-0)

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee Policy Subcommittee will review and adopt the agenda, then discuss two policy items: electric bicycles and the JFBB school choice program. The meeting will also approve the October 21, 2025 minutes, receive member updates, and identify items for future meetings.

• Discussion of electric bicycles policy
• Discussion of JFBB school choice policy
• Approval of October 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Member updates
• Planning items for future meetings

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss a sewer bond involving a grant and loan from the MWRA and vote on community fall grants. The board will also consider a nicotine-free generation proposal and Special Town Meeting warrant articles.

• MWRA Sewer Bond: $1,037,250.00 grant and $345,750.00 loan
• Award to Talento Rutbol Development Group, LLC: $10,000.00 for rental assistance and $10,000.00 for equipment
• Tax Classification Hearing with Don Clarke
• Nicotine-Free Generation Proposal from Public Health Director Rajit Gupta
• Town Manager's Performance Incentive Payment authorization

The Board opened the tax evaluation hearing and voted to keep the single tax rate of 12.77% for FY26, rejecting the Open Space, Residential, and Small Commercial exemptions. A motion certifying that the MWRA Sewer Bond vote was public and not taken in executive session was approved. The Board also approved the recommended funding for the BAA and Select Board Community Fall grant programs.

• Opened tax evaluation and classification hearing (5-0-0)
• Adopted single tax rate for FY26 and rejected three exemptions (5-0-0)
• Certified public vote on MWRA Sewer Bond $1.383 M (5-0-0)
• Approved BAA and Select Board Community Fall grant funding as recommended (5-0-0)

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The Open Space & Recreation Committee will review goals and ideas for winter projects, activities, and events. It will also discuss warrant articles slated for a Special Town Meeting. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of goals and ideas for winter projects, activities, events
• Discussion of Special Town Meeting warrant articles
• Approval of minutes from 10/22/25

The Open Space & Recreation Committee approved the previous meeting minutes by a 6-0-0 vote. It declined to support Warrant Article #4 for the Nature’s Edge YMCA project, citing insufficient information. The committee unanimously backed Warrant Articles #5, #6 (if the purchase price does not exceed appraised value), #7, #8, #9, and #16. The meeting was adjourned with a 7-0-0 vote.

• Approved 10/22/25 minutes (6-0-0)
• Did not support Warrant Article #4 (unanimous)
• Supported Warrant Article #5 (unanimous)
• Supported Warrant Article #6 if price ≤ appraised value (unanimous)
• Supported Warrant Article #7 (unanimous)
• Supported Warrant Article #8 (unanimous)
• Supported Warrant Article #9 (unanimous)
• Supported Warrant Article #16 (unanimous)

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority board will approve the September 2025 meeting minutes and the September‑October 2025 payables. They will discuss policy updates under old business and conduct annual inspections for alarm testing under new business. A tenant open forum will also be held.

• Approval of minutes of the September 2025 meeting
• Approval of the September‑October 2025 payables
• Policy updates: revisit (old business)
• Annual inspections alarm testing (new business)
• Tenant open forum

Keefe Technical School Committee

The South Middlesex Regional Vocational Technical School Committee will approve minutes from the September 29 meeting and hear the Chairman’s and Superintendent‑Director’s reports. The meeting includes a financial session reviewing a non‑salary expenditure report and a bid for a sprinkler system. The committee will also discuss admissions updates, policy documents, and resolutions for the MASC/MASS joint conference.

• Approval of minutes from the regular meeting of September 29, 2025
• Superintendent‑Director’s report on admissions, recruitment policy, and accountability overview
• Review of non‑salary financial expenditure report (Appendix 2025‑91)
• Consideration of bid for sprinkler system (Appendix 2025‑92)
• Review of resolutions for MASC/MASS joint conference (Appendix 2025‑89)

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission will hold a remote meeting to hear four Notice of Intent and stormwater permit requests, ratify emergency beaver dam and culvert repairs, and discuss wetlands regulation updates.

• Notice of Intent, 30 Memorial Drive, MetroWest YMCA
• Notice of Intent, Algonquin Trail and Captain Eames Circle, Thousand Pines Development Corp.
• Emergency Certification, beaver dam breaching at 2 and 7 Harper Lane
• Emergency Certification, culvert repair at West Union Street
• Discussion of Wetlands Regulation and Stormwater Handbook Updates

The Conservation Commission approved an emergency certification to remove beaver dams at 2 and 7 Harper Lane, 70 Howe Street, and 0 Whittemore Drive (5-0-0 vote). It also closed the hearing and approved the order of conditions for the Notice of Intent at 27 Laurelton Drive (both 5-0-0 votes). Several hearings for stormwater management permits and notices of intent were continued to November 17, 2025 (each 5-0-0). All motions passed unanimously.

• Closed hearing for Notice of Intent, 27 Laurelton Drive (5-0-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 27 Laurelton Drive (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for Notice of Intent, 90 Waverly Street to Nov 17, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for Notice of Intent & Stormwater Permit, 30 Memorial Drive to Nov 17, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for Notice of Intent & Stormwater Permit, Algonquin Trail & Captain Eames Circle to Nov 17, 3035 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for Request for Stormwater Permit, 240-260 Pleasant Street to Nov 17, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Ratified Emergency Certification for beaver dam removals at 2 & 7 Harper Lane, 70 Howe Street, 0 Whittemore Drive (5-0-0)

Pittaway/Warren School Site Council

The Pittaway School Site Council will meet to discuss the current School Improvement Plan (SIP). The body will also review family and community engagement opportunities.

• Review of Current School Improvement Plan (SIP)
• Discussion of family and community engagement opportunities

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Affordable Housing Trust will approve the meeting minutes. It will discuss items listed as Olive St, 487 Main St and Habitat for Humanity, a Comprehensive Plan Committee update, and an update on 38 Carl Ghilani Circle. The board will also introduce new potential Trust board members and consider any other matters.

• Olive St
• 487 Main St and Habitat for Humanity
• Comprehensive Plan Committee Update
• 38 Carl Ghilani Circle update
• Introduction of new potential Trust board members

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a continuance of the public hearing on a 40B Comprehensive Permit for 55 West Union Street. The petition seeks a four‑story elevator building with 116 rental units, including 29 income‑restricted units, on a 4.9‑acre site in the Commercial Highway District. The board will also continue hearings on similar 40B permits for 61 Waverly Street and 10‑60 Main Street. Additional agenda items include reviewing the October 14 meeting minutes, staff updates, and adjournment.

• Continuance of public hearing – 55 West Union Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit for 116 units (87 market, 29 income‑restricted) on 4.9 acres
• Continuance of public hearing – 61 Waverly Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit for 226‑unit, five‑story multifamily building with 391 parking spaces
• Continuance of public hearing – 10‑60 Main Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit for two multifamily buildings totaling 250 units and 337 concealed podium parking spaces, plus 7,500 sq ft commercial conversion
• Review of October 14 meeting minutes
• Staff updates and administrative matters

The Zoning Board of Appeals continued the public hearing on the 55 West Union Street comprehensive permit to November 18, 2025, with a unanimous 4‑0‑0 vote. The Board also approved the waivers requested for the 61 Waverly Street 40B comprehensive permit, subject to any language Town Counsel may add, with a unanimous 3‑0‑0 vote.

• Continuance of 55 West Union St hearing to Nov 18, 2025 (4-0-0)
• Approve waivers for 61 Waverly St 40B project, subject to counsel language (3-0-0)

Roadway Traffic Safety Committee

The Roadway Traffic Safety Committee will review updates on several local traffic issues. Topics include new signage at the Pincushion School crosswalk, resident complaints about cut‑through traffic on High Street, and the proposed 40B 61 Waverly St project that could add over 300 vehicles during rush hour. The committee will also discuss a 40B proposal on Memorial Drive, sensor timing at the Main Street traffic light, and sidewalk construction on High Street using ARPA funds. New business includes reading letters from residents on various safety concerns.

• Add additional signage for the Pincushion School crosswalk
• Resident concerns about cut‑through traffic and speed on High Street Extension
• Discuss traffic impact of the proposed 40B 61 Waverly St project (potential >300 vehicles)
• Traffic study of John Dudley’s 40B proposal off Memorial Drive
• Request to extend the two‑second sensor gap time at the Main Street traffic light

The committee reviewed several traffic‑related updates, including school crosswalk signage, resident concerns about speeding on High Street, and litter‑signage requests, but no formal actions or votes were taken on those items. The only substantive decisions were to note that there were no minutes to approve, to set the next meeting for December 9, 2025 at 10:00 am, and to adjourn the session.

• No prior meeting minutes approved (none to approve)
• Next meeting scheduled for December 9, 2025 at 10:00 am (PSB)
• Motion to adjourn adopted (motion by Chief Robie, seconded by Dona Walsh)

Finance Committee

The Ashland Finance Committee discussed the FY 2026 budget calendar, requested departments submit two budget versions, and noted ongoing deficits. It reviewed the town's investment performance with Rockland Trust and confirmed the election of a new clerk for FY 2026. The committee also examined staffing challenges across town departments and plans for upcoming Tri‑Board meetings.

• Rockland Trust – Investment performance review
• Fiscal year 2026 budget calendar & general financial position review, including request for two departmental budgets
• Fiscal year 2026 clerk election (Anton Tikhomirov elected)
• Discussion of employee burnout and staffing shortages in Town Hall, Police, Fire, and DPW
• Tri‑Board meeting preparation and scheduling for early October

The Finance Committee approved the September 23, 2005 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote and adjourned the session with the same vote count. Members agreed to postpone the Tri‑Board straw poll vote until December 10. The next Finance Committee meeting was scheduled for November 10, 2025.

• Approved September 23, 2005 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0)
• Postponed Tri‑Board straw poll vote to December 10
• Scheduled next meeting for November 10, 2025

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority board will vote to approve the September 2025 meeting minutes and the September‑October 2025 payable items. They will revisit policy updates, consider annual inspections and alarm testing, and hold a tenant open forum for resident input.

• Approval of minutes of the September 2025 meeting
• Approval of the payable items for September‑October 2025
• Revisit of policy updates (old business)
• Discussion of annual inspections and alarm testing (new business)
• Tenant open forum

Keefe Tech School Council

The Keefe Tech Building Committee will meet on Oct. 27, 2025 to conduct standard agenda items. The committee will select a chair and vice‑chair, review the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process to date, and consider any new business. No specific contracts, ordinances, or fee changes are listed on the agenda.

• Selection of a chair and vice chair for the committee
• Review of the MSBA process to date and next steps
• Discussion of new business (unspecified)
• Public participation segment
• Introduction and overview of the School Building Committee

Planning Board

The Ashland Planning Board will hold public hearings on two development petitions: a youth soccer field and playground at 240‑260 Pleasant Street, and a full‑service YMCA with an early learning center, playground, parking, and soccer fields at 30 Memorial Drive. The board will also meet jointly with the Select Board to discuss the town’s Comprehensive Plan and will review its task list and several reports.

• 240‑260 Pleasant Street: petition for Site Plan Review, Design Plan Review and Special Permit for a 1.9‑acre youth soccer field, tot‑lot playground, permeable parking and related infrastructure.
• 30 Memorial Drive: petition for Special Permits, Site Plan Review, Design Plan Review and Site Alteration Permit for a 12.55‑acre full‑service YMCA, early learning center, outdoor playground, parking, walkways, soccer fields and utilities.
• Joint meeting with the Select Board to discuss the Comprehensive Plan.
• Planning Board Task List: discussion and comment.
• Reports on the Comprehensive Plan, Community Preservation Committee, and Metro West Regional Collaborative.

The Board voted 4‑0‑0 to continue the 30 Memorial Drive YMCA hearing and set a new date of November 6. It also scheduled several other hearings for November 6, approved the October 9 minutes, and set November 13 dates for the Tilton Avenue and In‑law Bylaw matters. An additional Planning Board meeting was added for November 6.

• Continued 30 Memorial Drive YMCA hearing to Nov 6 (4-0-0)
• Moved 117 Oregon Road hearing to Nov 6 (no vote recorded)
• Moved 501 Pond Street hearing to Nov 6 (no vote recorded)
• Moved Caroline Drive hearing to Nov 6 (no vote recorded)
• Added extra Planning Board meeting on Nov 6 (no vote recorded)
• Approved October 9 minutes (4-0-0)
• Set 55 Tilton Avenue hearing for Nov 13; Chair recusing (no vote recorded)
• Set In‑law Bylaw hearing for Nov 13 (no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The Ashland Planning Board will hold a public hearing on November 13, 2025, to discuss proposed amendments to the Ashland Zoning Bylaws. The board is considering the addition of a section for in-law apartments and changes to accessory use regulations.

• Proposed addition of Section 7.8 (In-law Apartments) to Zoning Bylaws
• Proposed amendment to Section 3.0 Use Regulations – 3.1.G. Table of Use Regulations – Accessory Uses

Select Board

The Select Board Grant Review Sub-Committee will meet to review and vote on recommendations for two grant programs. The body will decide on submissions for BAA Grants and Select Board Community Grants.

• Vote on BAA Grant recommendations
• Vote on Select Board Community Grant recommendations

The sub‑committee added a new column (F) to the award spreadsheet to show each organization’s eligible amount. It applied a uniform 60% funding level to all full 501c3 awards to keep award balances above 50% of the original value. No reduction was needed for Community‑tab awards, which can be funded in full. Follow‑up actions were assigned for the Ashland Day Event Committee and the Ashland Senior Center requests.

• Added column F to award spreadsheet to display eligible amounts
• Applied 60% funding level to all full 501c3 awards
• No reduction applied to Community‑tab awards (full funding allowed)
• Brandi & Claudia to follow up with Joe on Ashland Day Event Committee lights request
• Susan Robie to contact Candi about Ashland Senior Center funding purpose

Select Board

The Select Board is holding a joint meeting with the Planning Board. The boards will discuss the Comprehensive Plan.

• Joint discussion regarding the Comprehensive Plan

Economic Development Advisory Group

The Economic Development Advisory Group will introduce the new Director of Planning and Economic Development. It will review grant applications from Talento Futbol Development and Universal Auto Body, then vote on the minutes from the April 17, 2025 meeting. The group will also receive updates on several town projects, including downtown streetscape work, the Arboretum and Dog Park, the YMCA, and recent ZBA applications.

• Introduce Jasmin Farinacci, Director of Planning and Economic Development
• Review Talento Futbol Development grant for equipment and rental assistance (200 Homer Ave.)
• Review Universal Auto Body grant for sign and façade restoration of historical clock (Summer Street)
• Vote on minutes from the April 17, 2025 meeting
• Project status updates: downtown and Route 126 streetscape, Arboretum, Dog Park, YMCA, ZBA applications

The Economic Development Advisory Group approved the minutes from the April 17, 2025 meeting unanimously. The group also approved a $20,000 Business Incentive Grant for Talento Futbol Development Group, LLC to support rental and equipment costs. No other actions were taken.

• Approved April 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $20,000 business incentive grant for Talento Futbol Development (unanimous)

Ashland Middle School Site Council

The council will hear public comments, introduce members and nominate a co‑chair and secretary, receive an update on the start of the school year, and brainstorm topics for future discussion. No formal decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Public Comment
• Introductions and nominations for Co‑chair & secretary
• Update on start of the year
• Brainstorm ideas for site council discussion

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review meeting minutes and enter executive session. Discussions will include tax exemptions and the results of a phone hearing regarding a property abatement.

• Review and sign meeting minutes from May 14, 2025
• Review and sign exemptions in executive session
• Discussion of ATB phone hearing results for 369 Pond Street abatement

The Board of Assessors approved the May 14, 2025 meeting minutes, voted to return from executive session, and then adjourned. All three motions passed unanimously with a 2-0 vote.

• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Returned from executive session (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will meet to discuss the Superintendent's evaluation and review student project proposals. The committee is scheduled to hold second reads and votes on policies regarding graduation requirements, competency determination, and middle school pathway exploration.

• Vote on Policy IKF - Graduation Requirements
• Vote on Policy IKFE - Competency Determination
• Vote on Policy JEC - Middle School Pathway Exploration
• Superintendent’s Evaluation
• Eagle Scout and AHS Environmental Club project proposals

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will discuss the town’s fiscal year 2027 budget. The committee will also vote to open, close and post the second special town meeting scheduled for November 19, 2025.

• Discuss FY 27 Budget
• Vote to open, close and post the Second November 19, 2025 Special Town Meeting

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss the town’s fiscal year 2027 budget. The board will also vote to open, close, and post the Second Special Town Meeting scheduled for November 19, 2025.

• Discuss FY 27 Budget
• Vote to open, close, and post the Second Special Town Meeting (Nov 19, 2025)

The board voted to open the Special Town Meeting Warrant for the November 19, 2025 meeting and then to close and post that warrant. Both motions passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Open Special Town Meeting Warrant for Nov 19, 2025 – approved (5-0-0)
• Close and post Special Town Meeting Warrant for Nov 19, 2025 – approved (5-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting – approved (5-0-0)

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The Open Space and Recreation Committee will approve the minutes from the September 15 meeting. Members will receive updates on Ashland Day feedback, the Comprehensive Plan, land stewardship, stormwater initiatives, and the Upper Charles Trail. The committee will also brainstorm ideas for winter projects, activities, and events.

The Open Space & Recreation Committee approved the minutes from the September 15 meeting by a 5‑0‑0 vote. It then voted 5‑0‑0 to decline renewal of the Survey Planet software license if the town does not cover the $630 auto‑renewal cost. No other substantive actions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved 9/15/25 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Voted 5-0-0 to not renew Survey Planet license if town does not pay $630 auto‑renewal

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss the FY 27 budget. The committee will also vote to open, close and post the second Special Town Meeting scheduled for November 19, 2025. Both items are on the agenda for the October 22 meeting.

• Discuss FY 27 Budget
• Vote to open, close and post the second November 19, 2025 Special Town Meeting

Board of Health

The Ashland Board of Health will consider a housing concern at 49 Cherry Street and repeated trash/dumpster violations at the Cirrus Apartments. The Health Director will provide updates on the Tobacco-Free Generation initiative, the upcoming drug take‑back day, and scheduled fall vaccine clinics at Town Hall and the Community Center. The board will also review and approve FY2026 year‑to‑date budget reports and September 16, 2025 meeting minutes.

• 49 Cherry Street – housing issue
• Cirrus Apartments – repeated trash/dumpster violations
• Tobacco-Free Generation – update
• Fall vaccine clinics: Oct 13, Oct 27 (Town Hall) and Oct 29 (Community Center)
• Review and approve FY2026 YTD budget reports

The Board voted 4‑0 to approve the consent agenda, which included the FY2026 year‑to‑date budget reports and the September 16, 2025 meeting minutes. The meeting was then adjourned by a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved FY2026 YTD budget reports and September 16, 2025 minutes (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee Policy Subcommittee will discuss three policy items: the IKC Grade Point Average, IKCA valedictorian/salutatorian eligibility, and JFBB school choice. The meeting will also approve the September 30, 2025 minutes and hear member updates and future agenda items.

• IKC Grade Point Average policy discussion
• IKCA Valedictorian/Salutatorian Eligibility policy discussion
• JFBB School Choice policy discussion
• Approval of September 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• Member updates and items for future meetings

Mindess School Building Committee

The Mindess School Building Committee will meet to review ongoing work, IDS/HVAC updates, and budget matters. The session includes approval of invoices, expenditures, and meeting minutes.

• Approval of Invoices
• Report Approved Expenditures/Change Requests
• Approval of Meeting Minutes (Aug 19, Sept 16)
• IDS/HVAC Update
• Budget/MSBA Updates

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will review and approve the previous meeting minutes, discuss how sustainability will be integrated into town planning, and consider the 2025 sustainability priorities, including the Mass Energize School Challenge, Ashland Public Schools engagement, community solar, a Skip the stuff update, and ZBA meeting coverage. Updates from the Energize Ashland program and the Sustainability Manager will be presented. The meeting will close with any other business.

• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Discuss role of sustainability in town planning
• 2025 priorities discussion (Mass Energize School Challenge, school engagement, community solar, Skip the stuff update, ZBA meeting coverage)
• Energize Ashland program updates
• Sustainability Manager updates

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the October 9 and August 19 meetings. Members discussed the committee’s advisory role, potential coordination with the Planning Department, and ideas for educational events and outreach. Several participants volunteered to help with education and sustainability recommendations. The next meeting is scheduled for November 6 at 7 pm on Zoom.

• Approved minutes from 10/9 and 8/19

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission will hold a remote meeting to hear requests for stormwater management permits and driveway replacements at several properties. The body will also discuss wetlands enforcement and review minutes from previous meetings.

• Request for Determination of Applicability for driveway replacements at 5, 7, 9, and 11 Belcher Circle
• Notice of Intent for wetlands work at 27 Laurelton Drive
• Notice of Intent and stormwater permit request at 30 Memorial Drive for MetroWest YMCA
• Notice of Intent and stormwater permit request at Algonquin Trail and Captain Eames Circle
• Discussion of wetlands violations at 0 Pond Street

The Commission issued a Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for four driveways on Belcher Circle, adding a condition to maintain silt sacks in catch basins. The hearing on the Notice of Intent for 27 Laurelton Drive was continued to November 3, 2025. The hearing for the Notice of Intent and Stormwater Management Permit for 0 Sewell Street was closed, and the Order of Conditions and Stormwater Management Permit for that project was approved.

• Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for 5,7,9,11 Belcher Circle with silt‑sack condition (6-0-0)
• Continue hearing for 27 Laurelton Drive Notice of Intent (6-0-0)
• Close hearing for 0 Sewell Street Notice of Intent and Stormwater Management Permit (6-0-0)
• Approve Order of Conditions and Stormwater Management Permit for 0 Sewell Street (6-0-0)

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee will meet to discuss and vote on the Draft Comprehensive Plan provided by JMG. The committee will also discuss the implementation team and the panel for the plan's presentation at a Special Town Meeting.

• Vote on Draft Comprehensive Plan
• Discussion of implementation team description
• Selection of panel for Special Town Meeting presentation

Select Board

The Select Board will consider several public hearings, including a change of manager for the Mexico City location at 1 West Union Street and a retail beer and wine liquor license for 272 Pond LLC dba Mobil at 272 Pond Street. The board will review the Capital Plan, discuss funding for invitational entries to NORD, and receive updates on the Comprehensive Plan, paving projects, and joint planning board meetings. It will vote to close and post the November 19, 2025 Special Town Meeting Warrant and accept several grants and appointments, including a $690,476.19 fire‑fighter grant for a new brush truck.

• Public hearing on change of manager – Mexico City – 1 West Union Street
• Public hearing on retail beer and wine liquor license – 272 Pond LLC dba Mobil – 272 Pond Street
• Vote to close and post the November 19, 2025 Special Town Meeting Warrant
• Accept FY2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant of $690,476.19 to purchase a new brush truck
• Approve one‑day liquor license for multiple vendors at Farmer’s Market event on Nov 22, 2025, 10 am‑1 pm

The Board approved a liquor license for 272 Pond LLC that permits 6‑packs of beer and full bottles of wine, with conditions that no nips be sold and that updated floor plans, TIPS certifications, and age restrictions be provided. The Board also approved the change of manager for Mexico City, appointing Mayra Ramirez Gonzalez. A $1.2 million capital plan was reviewed and will be presented at Town Meeting. The Board discussed the Special Town Meeting warrant articles but took no vote on them.

• Approved suspension of Mexico City hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved reopening of Mexico City hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved closing of Mexico City hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved change of manager to Mayra Ramirez Gonzalez (5-0-0)
• Approved suspension of 272 Pond LLC liquor hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved reopening of 272 Pond LLC liquor hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved closing of 272 Pond LLC liquor hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved 272 Pond LLC liquor license with conditions (5-0-0)

Historical Commission

The Ashland Historical Commission will review updates on the Village Burial Ground, discuss matters related to a local historic district, consider a letter concerning the Burnhams, and address miscellaneous topics. The meeting includes public discussion and planning for future agenda items.

• Village Burial Ground – updates
• Local Historic District discussion
• Review Burnhams letter
• Miscellaneous topics (TBD)

The Ashland Historical Commission discussed the Village Burial Ground GPR sessions, possible changes to the local historic district map, and the Burnham property, but no formal approvals or denials were recorded. No prior meeting minutes were available for approval. The only formal action was a unanimous motion to adjourn. The next meeting is set for November 18, 2025 at 7:30 PM.

• No prior meeting minutes were available for approval
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashland Zoning Board of Appeals will continue public hearings on three Comprehensive Permit applications under Chapter 40B for developments at 10‑60 Main Street, 61 Waverly Street, and 55 West Union Street. It will also hear a variance request for driveway access at 0 Myrtle Street. The agenda includes review of the September 30 meeting minutes and staff updates.

• Continuation of public hearing – 10‑60 Main Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit for two multifamily buildings (250 units, 337 parking spaces) and conversion of 7,500 sq ft mill space to commercial/retail.
• Continuation of public hearing – 61 Waverly Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit for one five‑story multifamily building (226 units, 391 parking spaces).
• Continuation of public hearing – 55 West Union Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit for one four‑story elevator building (116 rental units, 87 market, 29 income‑restricted).
• Public hearing – 0 Myrtle Street; Variance request for driveway access from West Mountain Lane.
• Review of September 30 meeting minutes.

The board reviewed the applicant’s waiver requests for the 10‑60 Main Street comprehensive permit, covering height, setbacks, mixed‑use ground floor, signage, parking, and other bylaw provisions. The applicant agreed to submit revised schematics with the required measurements. The board announced it will vote on the waivers at the next meeting.

DMS Site Council

The DMS Site Council will discuss updates regarding the start of the school year and review the School Improvement Plan. The meeting includes reports on iReady, MTSS/PLC, and data team meetings.

• Review of School Improvement Plan
• Updates on iReady full day
• Discussion of MTSS/PLC and Data Team Meetings
• Review of Standards/Curriculum Meeting work

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will review previous minutes and evaluate artificial turf. The meeting will also include a proposal to add Todd Ching as a member and a discussion of 2025 priorities, such as heat pump events, Ashland Day planning, and community solar.

• Review/Approve Previous Minutes
• Evaluation of Artificial Turf
• Propose Todd Ching as member
• 2025 Priorities Discussion
• Energize Ashland Updates

The Sustainability Committee approved the final version of a letter to the Planning Board opposing artificial turf fields. The committee also nominated Todd Ching to the committee, with a unanimous vote, and will forward the nomination to the Select Board. Additionally, the committee asked the Sustainability Manager to invite the Town Planner to the next 40B meeting to address project questions.

• Finalized letter to Planning Board opposing artificial turf fields (no vote recorded)
• Nominated Todd Ching to Sustainability Committee (unanimous)
• Requested Town Planner attendance at next 40B meeting (no vote recorded)

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee Safety Sub-Committee will meet to discuss emergency response and campus access. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss the deployment of security personnel or devices.

• Stay In Place - Emergency Response Team
• E-Bike and Fields Access
• Executive session regarding security personnel or devices

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission will hold a hearing on a Notice of Intent and Request for a Stormwater Management Permit for the Algonquin Trail and Captain Eames Circle project submitted by Thousand Pines Development Corp. through Crocker Design Group. The meeting will also cover general business, other business, a commissioner education session on various topics, and the signing of documents. No additional agenda items are listed.

• Notice of Intent and Request for Stormwater Management Permit – Algonquin Trail and Captain Eames Circle (Thousand Pines Development Corp., via Crocker Design Group)
• General Business (unspecified items)
• Other Business (unspecified items)
• Commissioner Education session – various topics
• Signing of documents

The Conservation Commission approved the proposal for GCG to conduct the Notice of Intent and Stormwater Management Permit review for the Algonquin Trail and Captain Eames Circle project. It also voted to continue the notice to the October 20 meeting and to direct the Conservation Office to send a letter to the Zoning Board of Appeals about the wetlands and stormwater bylaw waiver. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved GCG peer review proposal for Algonquin Trail stormwater permit (6-0-0)
• Moved to continue the Notice of Intent and Stormwater Management Permit to Oct 20 (6-0-0)
• Directed Ms. Solomon to send waiver letter to ZBA regarding 10-60 Main Street (6-0-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (6-0-0)

Planning Board

The Ashland Planning Board will hear three public hearing petitions: a T‑Mobile request to replace six antennas with new 5G‑capable antennas at 117 Oregon Road; a MetroWest Facilities LLC proposal for a youth soccer field, playground, and related amenities at 240‑260 Pleasant Street covering 1.9 acres; and a MetroWest Young Men’s Christian Association petition for a YMCA and Early Learning Center on 12.55 acres at 30 Memorial Drive. The board will also discuss its task list, receive reports from several committees, and address administrative updates.

• T‑Mobile seeks to remove six existing antennas and install six new 5G‑capable antennas at 117 Oregon Road (Residential “A” District).
• MetroWest Facilities LLC proposes a 1.9‑acre youth soccer field, tot‑lot, permeable parking, driveway and walkway at 240‑260 Pleasant Street (Industrial, Groundwater Protection Overlay, MBTA Communities Multi‑Family Overlay).
• MetroWest Young Men’s Christian Association requests permits for a YMCA, Early Learning Center, playground, parking, walking paths and soccer fields on 12.55 acres at 30 Memorial Drive (Rail Transit District).

The Board voted to close the public hearing on the 117 Oregon Road T‑Mobile application and to accept the revised decision, both unanimously (4‑0‑0). It approved an extension of the hearing for the 240‑260 Pleasant Street MetroWest Facilities project to November 13, 2025 (5‑0‑0). The Board also postponed further action on the YMCA’s 30 Memorial Drive development, extending the deadline to October 23, 2025 (5‑0‑0). No other substantive actions were taken.

• Close public hearing on 117 Oregon Road T‑Mobile – approved 4-0-0
• Accept revised decision for 117 Oregon Road T‑Mobile – approved 4-0-0
• Extend hearing for 240‑260 Pleasant Street MetroWest Facilities to Nov 13 2025 – approved 5-0-0
• Extend deadline for 30 Memorial Drive YMCA project to Oct 23 2025 – approved 5-0-0

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will discuss two options for the 2026-2027 school calendar. The body will also consider travel proposals and first readings of policies regarding graduation and competency requirements.

• 2026-2027 School Calendar (Option 1 and Option 2)
• Travel Proposal: Germany and Austria, April 2027
• Travel Proposal: Boys’ Basketball
• Policy 1st Read: IKF Graduation Requirements
• Policy 1st Read: IKFE Competency Determination and JEC Middle School Pathway Exploration

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee will approve minutes from the September 9 meeting and review expense submittals, including a possible purchase of a speaker or megaphone for guided walks. Committee members will receive updates on UCC land signage, trail markers, encroachments, and discuss alternative maintenance options for the UTV. Subcommittee leads will report on forestry, trails, education, and land acquisition topics. An executive session will be held to discuss land protection and acquisition of parcels adjoining the Town Forest.

• Approve minutes from the September 9 meeting
• Consider buying a speaker or megaphone for guided walks
• UCC land updates: signs, kiosk, trail designations, markers, encroachments
• Discuss alternative maintenance options for the UTV
• Executive session to discuss land protection and acquisition of abutting forest parcels

The committee approved the September 10 and September 23, 2025 minutes with a unanimous 5‑0‑0 vote. A motion to adjourn the October 8 meeting also passed unanimously (5‑0‑0). No new expenditures or policy actions were voted on.

• Approved September 10 and September 23 minutes (5-0-0)
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed (5-0-0)

Warren Site Council

The Warren Site Council will meet to discuss the school's improvement plan. The body will also review plans for family and community goals.

• Review of School Improvement Plan
• Plan for family/community goals

Metrowest Regional Emergency Planning Committee

The MetroWest Regional Emergency Planning Committee will hear a disaster response presentation by Mike Angotti of Team Rubicon, hold a training committee session, and have a general discussion. The committee will also decide on the date for its next meeting, scheduled for Thursday, January 8, 2026.

• Disaster response presentation by Mike Angotti (Team Rubicon)
• Training Committee session
• General discussion among committee members
• Set date for next REPC meeting: Thursday, January 8, 2026

Council on Aging

The Ashland Council on Aging will review and approve the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes. The meeting includes a Director’s Report and a monthly update on funding. Additional items include citizen participation, new business, and an around‑the‑table discussion.

• Review and approve September 4, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director’s Report
• Monthly Updates – Funding
• Citizen Participation
• Around the Table

The council voted to approve the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes with a 4-0 vote. Later, the council voted to adjourn the October 2, 2025 meeting, also with a 4-0 vote. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (4-0)

Metrowest Regional Transit Authority

The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will review a comprehensive regional transit plan update and the revised FY26 operating budget. The board is also scheduled to discuss the selection of engineering design services for the Blandin Hub Operations & Maintenance Facility Expansion.

• Approval of Revised FY26 Operating Budget
• Engineering Design Services Selection for Blandin Hub Operations & Maintenance Facility Expansion
• AECOM Comprehensive Regional Transit Plan Update
• Agency Title VI Program approval

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will review artificial turf, propose a new member, and discuss 2025 priorities including heat pump events, community solar, and Ashland Public Schools engagement. The meeting will also include updates on Energize Ashland and the Skip the Stuff program.

• Evaluation of Artificial Turf
• Propose Todd Ching as member
• Heat Pump Event Planning
• Community Solar discussion
• Ashland Public Schools Engagement

School Committee

The School Committee Policy Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the APS Policy of CTE Pathway. The session also includes the approval of meeting minutes from September 24, 2025.

• Discussion of APS Policy of CTE Pathway

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashland Zoning Board of Appeals will continue a public hearing on a 40B Comprehensive Permit submitted by SLV Ashland, LLC for two multifamily buildings totaling 250 apartment units and 337 parking spaces at 10‑60 Main Street. The board will also hear a variance request from Farooq Ansari for driveway access at 0 Myrtle Street, and a second 40B Comprehensive Permit from The Gutierrez Company for a five‑story, 226‑unit building at 61 Waverly Street. Additional agenda items include draft decision approvals for three existing applications and routine staff updates.

• Continuance of public hearing – 10‑60 Main Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit for 250 units and 337 parking spaces
• Public hearing – 0 Myrtle Street; variance to allow driveway access from West Mountain Lane
• Continuance of public hearing – 61 Waverly Street; 40B Comprehensive Permit for 226 units and 391 parking spaces
• Draft decision approval – 17 Central Street
• Draft decision approval – 24 Pinecrest Lane

The board unanimously voted to continue the public hearing on the 10-60 Main Street 40B comprehensive permit to October 14, 2025 at 7:00 PM (vote 4‑0‑0). No decision was made on the variance request for 0 Myrtle Street; the hearing was opened for public comment. All other items were discussed without a formal vote.

• Continue 10-60 Main Street hearing to Oct 14, 2025 (4-0-0)

Roadway Traffic Safety Committee

The Roadway Traffic Study Committee will review traffic concerns related to proposed 40B developments at 61 Waverly St and on Memorial Dr. Members will also discuss speeding and cut-through traffic on High St and Pine Hill Rd.

• Traffic impact of 40B project at 61 Waverly St intersection of Union St, E. Union St, and Waverly St
• Traffic study for John Dudley’s 40B proposal off Memorial Dr
• Status of High Street sidewalk construction using ARPA funding
• Pincushion School crosswalk signage updates
• Resident concerns regarding speeding and cut-through traffic on High St and Pine Hill Rd

Select Board

The Select Board will review and sign anticipation note documents totaling $17,223,336.00 for various town projects. The board will also review warrant articles for the November 15, 2025 Special Town Meeting.

• Anticipation notes for $5,523,336.00 for Mindess Elementary School
• Anticipation notes for $1,500,000 for a Fire Tower Truck
• Anticipation notes for $6,000,000 for Water Treatment Plant Ozone Replacement
• Anticipation notes for $4,000,000 for Water Main Replacement
• Acceptance of donations for Ashland Day totaling $21,975.00

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority board will approve the August 2025 meeting minutes and the August‑September 2025 payables. They will revisit policy updates, including the RSC update, and present the upcoming budget along with the Agilitas Host Program. A tenant open forum will follow the new‑business items.

• Approval of minutes of the August 2025 meeting
• Approval of the payables for August‑September 2025
• Revisit of policy updates (RSC update)
• Budget presentation
• Agilitas Host Program presentation

Keefe Technical School Committee

The OPEB Sub-Committee will meet to approve minutes, receive a treasurer's report, review investment strategies, and identify next steps. The meeting is scheduled for September 29, 2025, at 5:00 PM in the Upper Cafeteria.

• Approval of May 8, 2023 minutes
• Appointment of Sub-Committee Chair
• Treasurer’s Report
• Review balance and investment strategy
• Identify Next Steps

Keefe Technical School Committee

The South Middlesex Regional Vocational Technical School Committee will consider and vote on the minutes from its August 25, 2025 regular meeting and the August 25, 2025 executive‑session minutes. The meeting also includes reports on OPEB, budget sub‑committee members and dates, and a non‑salary financial expenditure report. No other decisions are listed.

• Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of August 25, 2025
• Approval of August 25, 2025 executive‑session minutes
• OPEB (Other Post‑Employment Benefits) update in Chairman’s Report
• Budget Sub‑Committee dates (Appendix 2025‑82) in Superintendent‑Director’s Report
• Non‑Salary Financial Expenditure Report (Appendix 2025‑83) in Financial Matters

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission meeting will consider several Notice of Intent and Request for Stormwater Management Permit applications for projects on Algonquin Trail, Captain Eames Circle, Sewell Street, Chestnut Street, Memorial Drive, Waverly Street, Spring Street, and Pleasant Street. It will also hear a request for determination of applicability for a water main replacement on Union and Fountain Streets, a request for a certificate of compliance for 71 Spring Street, a minor modification request for 0 Memorial Drive, an extension of an enforcement order for 63 Cedar Hill Road, and a discussion of stormwater violations at Leah Estates. General business includes agent updates and review of previous minutes.

• Request for Determination of Applicability – Union Street and Fountain Street water main replacement
• Notice of Intent and Request for Stormwater Management Permit – Algonquin Trail and Captain Eames Circle (Thousand Pines Development Corp.)
• Notice of Intent and Request for Stormwater Management Permit – 517 Chestnut Street (Massachusetts State College Building Authority)
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – 71 Spring Street (Amrize)
• Extension of Enforcement Order – 63 Cedar Hill Road (Jacek and Maria Szydik)

The Conservation Commission voted 6‑0‑0 to issue a Negative 5 Determination of Applicability for the Ashland DPW water‑main replacement at Union and Fountain Streets, concluding the project is exempt from the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. The commission also announced a new three‑minute limit for each resident comment during hearings. Discussion continued on the Algonquin Trail and Captain Eames Circle storm‑water permit, but no vote was taken.

• Issued Negative 5 Determination of Applicability for Union‑Fountain water‑main replacement (6‑0‑0 vote)
• Implemented three‑minute limit for resident comments per hearing (policy announcement, no vote)

Town Forest Committee

The Ashland Town Forest Committee will address a correction of an Open Meeting Law violation. It will also discuss a proposed expansion of the town forest that was previously considered on September 3, 2025.

• Correct Open Meeting Law violation
• Expansion of the Town Forest (discussed Sep 3, 2025)

The committee met online on September 25, 2025, with a quorum present. Members reviewed a presumed Open Meeting Law violation that occurred when three voting members attended a Select Board executive session on September 3, 2025 and discussed forest expansion. The members acknowledged understanding the violation. No formal actions or votes were taken.

Town Forest Committee

The Ashland Town Forest Committee meets virtually on September 25, 2025. The agenda includes correcting an Open Meeting Law violation and reviewing a proposed expansion of the town forest that was previously discussed on September 3, 2025. No other items are listed.

• Correct Open Meeting Law violation
• Expansion of the Town Forest (previously discussed on September 3, 2025)

The Ashland Town Forest Committee met online on September 25, 2025 with a quorum present. Members discussed correcting an Open Meeting Law violation that occurred when three voting members attended a Select Board executive session on September 3, 2025 and discussed forest committee business. The members acknowledged they understood the presumed violation. The meeting adjourned at 6:07 PM.

• Acknowledged presumed Open Meeting Law violation (no vote)

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will adopt the agenda and review reports, then vote on proposed revisions to the Ashland High School Student Handbook. The meeting includes a student presentation about a recent team‑building trip, warrant approvals, and superintendent reports. No contracts, budget items, or other decisions are listed.

• Adopt agenda and approve minutes from September 10, 2025 (consent agenda)
• Public participation guidelines
• Student presentation: Coach Sharon Ames, X‑Country team‑building VT trip recap
• Warrant approvals
• Consider revisions to Ashland High School Student Handbook

School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to discuss specific school policies and the creation of an online policy manual. The session focuses on administrative guidelines for student competency and graduation.

• Review of IKFE- Competency Determination policy
• Review of IKF - Graduation policy
• Discussion on the creation of an Online Policy Manual

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission will discuss a request to lift a cease‑and‑desist order affecting Leah Estates on Haven Way, Harding Lane, and Belcher Circle. The agenda also includes a member‑prerogative item for commissioner education on various topics and a routine item to sign documents. No other business is listed.

• Request to lift cease and desist order for Leah Estates (Haven Way, Harding Lane, Belcher Circle)
• Commissioner education session covering various topics
• Signing of documents (routine item)

The Conservation Commission discussed the unpermitted roadway reclamation at Leah Estates. A motion was made to lift the Cease‑and‑Desist portion of the Notice of Violation and allow paving to continue, with a request that Asphalt Engineering file an after‑the‑fact Stormwater Management Permit. No vote tally or final decision was recorded in the minutes.

• Motion to lift Cease‑and‑Desist portion of Notice of Violation presented (outcome not recorded)
• Discussion of requiring an after‑the‑fact Stormwater Management Permit (no formal vote recorded)

Finance Committee

The Ashland Finance Committee meeting will approve the June 25, 2025 draft minutes, conduct a public comment period, and review the fiscal year 2025 financial recap. Members will vote on the fiscal year 2026 clerk election and discuss the FY2026 budget calendar and general financial position. Additional items include preparation for the Tri‑Board meeting and other business.

• Approve June 25, 2025 draft minutes
• Fiscal year 2026 clerk election (vote)
• Fiscal year 2025 review/recap
• Fiscal year 2026 budget calendar & financial position review
• Tri‑Board meeting preparation

The Finance Committee approved the draft minutes from June 25, 2025 with a 5‑0 vote. The committee elected Anton Tikhomirov as the FY2026 town clerk, also by a 5‑0 vote. Future meetings were scheduled for October 6 or 7 (Tri‑Board) and October 28 (Finance Committee). The meeting adjourned at 7:34 PM with a unanimous 6‑0 vote.

• Approved draft minutes (June 25, 2025) – vote 5‑0
• Elected Anton Tikhomirov as FY2026 clerk – vote 5‑0
• Scheduled Tri‑Board meeting for Oct 6 or Oct 7
• Scheduled next Finance Committee meeting for Oct 28 at 6 PM
• Adjourned meeting – vote 6‑0

Ashland Housing Authority

The Ashland Housing Authority board will approve the August 2025 meeting minutes and the August‑September 2025 payables. They will revisit policy updates, including an RSC update. A budget presentation and an Agilitas Host program presentation are scheduled. The meeting also includes a tenant open forum.

• Approval of minutes of the August 2025 meeting
• Approval of August‑September 2025 payables
• Revisit policy updates: RSC update
• Budget presentation
• Agilitas Host program presentation

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee will review public feedback and discuss revisions to the Draft Envision Ashland plan. Members will receive updates on Precinct 4 and the implementation plan moving forward. The meeting will also set next steps, including a joint SB/PB meeting, and gather final committee comments.

• Review of public feedback and revision of Draft Envision Ashland
• Precinct 4 update
• Discussion of the implementation plan going forward
• Planning next steps in a joint SB/PB meeting
• Committee comments and public input

The Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee agreed to revise the language of several goals and metrics, including updates to sustainability, affordable housing, and historic building reuse. Members also approved the creation of a hybrid implementation committee and will decide its size and appointments at the next meeting. The revised draft will be reviewed before a final vote at the October 16 meeting.

• Revised Goal 2.C wording to keep “promote carbon sequestration” under one goal and add new strategy language (agreed)
• Changed Goal 3.C.4 wording from “new affordable homes” to “additional affordable homes” (agreed)
• Updated Goal 3.D wording to “historic and other existing buildings” (agreed)
• Modified Goal 4 Metric 1 to track “projects filed and projects approved” (agreed)
• Added “connected” before “sidewalks, trails and bike paths” in Goal 1 metric (agreed)
• Adjusted Goal 1.C.3 wording for streetscape improvements to incorporate public gathering spaces (agreed)
• Approved formation of a hybrid implementation committee with committee members and town staff (agreed)
• Decided to discuss number and appointment of implementation committee members at the next meeting (planned)

Select Board

The Select Board will convene an executive session under G.L. c. 30A sec 21(a)(6) to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property. No specific details, dollar amounts, or property locations are disclosed in the agenda. The meeting will end after the executive session without reconvening in open session.

• Executive session to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property (details confidential)

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss the scoring of a project matrix and provide updates on paving projects and public safety building rebates. The board is also reviewing a request to modify operating hours for Ashland Fish and Game.

• Update on $145,000.00 in solar and geothermal rebates and credits for the Public Safety Building
• Request from Ashland Fish and Game to modify approved operating hours
• Request from Clover Road to extend serving area to include parking lot on October 4, 2025
• Discussion on supporting Mayor Charlie Sisitsky for the 2025 Boston Region MPO Municipal Election
• Review of Open Meeting Law violation regarding January 17, 2024 Executive Session minutes

The Board approved a motion to extend the Ashland Fish and Game Club clubhouse hours to 8 AM–1 AM Monday‑Saturday and 10 AM–1 AM Sundays, and to keep the pavilion open until 11 PM, with a 5‑0‑0 vote. It also approved the nomination of Charlie Sisitsky for the MPO seat and adopted the consent agenda items—including the September 3 minutes, appointments to the Town Forest and Comprehensive Plan committees, and a parking‑area extension for Clover Road—each by a unanimous vote. The meeting was then adjourned into executive session by a 5‑0‑0 roll‑call vote.

• Approved extended clubhouse hours for Ashland Fish & Game Club (5-0-0)
• Approved extended pavilion hours for Ashland Fish & Game Club (5-0-0)
• Approved nomination of Charlie Sisitsky for MPO seat (5-0-0)
• Approved regular session minutes from September 3, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Approved appointment of Devin Lopes, Case Manager, waiving 15‑day wait (5-0-0)
• Approved appointment of Mary Panda to Town Forest Committee (5-0-0)
• Approved appointment of Patricia Kendall to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (5-0-0)
• Approved extension of Clover Road parking serving area (5-0-0)

Board of Health

The Ashland Board of Health will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of FY2026 year‑to‑date budget reports. The meeting will feature a discussion on the Tobacco‑Free Generation initiative with Zachary Rich. Additional health‑related updates include upcoming fall vaccine clinics at Pine Hill Pharmacy and several community health complaints.

• Review and approve FY2026 YTD budget reports (Consent Agenda)
• Fall vaccine clinics with Pine Hill Pharmacy – Sept. 15, Oct. 13, Oct. 27
• Discussion on Tobacco‑Free Generation with Zachary Rich
• Shadows Shelter complaint – food safety and housing issues (update)
• Mosquito complaint at Seasons Market, 123 Union Street

The Board of Health voted unanimously to approve the FY2026 year‑to‑date budget reports and the August 19, 2025 meeting minutes as part of the consent agenda. A separate unanimous vote adjourned the meeting at 7:00 PM. No formal action was taken on the Nicotine‑Free Generation proposal; it was discussed only.

• Approved FY2026 year‑to‑date budget reports (consent agenda) – vote 5‑0‑0
• Approved August 19, 2025 meeting minutes (consent agenda) – vote 5‑0‑0
• Adjourned meeting – vote 5‑0‑0

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to discuss priorities for 2025 and receive updates on local initiatives. The body will review previous meeting minutes and hear reports from the Sustainability Manager and Energize Ashland.

• 2025 Priorities Discussion including Heat Pump Event Planning
• Ashland Public Schools Engagement
• Community Solar
• Recycle Works Pilot Program
• ZBA Meeting coverage

Mindess School Building Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding spring work, HVAC, and the MSBA budget. The body is also scheduled to approve invoices and expenditure change requests.

• Approval of invoices
• Report of approved expenditures and change requests
• IDS/HVAC update
• Budget and MSBA updates
• Committee reorganization

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The Open Space and Recreation Committee will review the criteria for areas of focus and the estimated finish date for the Open Space and Recreation Plan. The group will also discuss activities and shifts planned for Ashland Day on October 4.

• Review Open Space and Recreation Plan criteria
• Discuss Ashland Day activities and shifts
• Review Comprehensive Plan updates
• Review Land Stewardship updates
• Review Stormwater updates

The Open Space & Recreation Committee approved the September 9 minutes with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. It approved edits to the Open Space and Recreation Plan, deleting five parcels now owned by the town and adding two new sites. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 9:32 p.m.

• Approved minutes of 9/9/25 (5-0-0)
• Deleted five parcels now owned by the town (United Church of Christ, Cadillac Paint site, former Girl Scout property, upland areas off Fountain Street, Rail Transit District parcels)
• Added property next to Kidde Fenwal and Cedar Street/Workmen’s Circle
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Planning Board

The Ashland Planning Board will vote on two new appointments and hold public hearings on three special permit requests. Applicants include T‑Mobile for antenna replacement at 117 Oregon Road, MetroWest Facilities LLC for a 1.9‑acre youth soccer field at 240‑260 Pleasant Street, and MetroWest Young Men’s Christian Association for a 12.55‑acre full‑service YMCA at 30 Memorial Drive. The board will also discuss design‑review committee structure, Ashland Day, and routine reports.

• Appointment of Paul Montesino as a new Planning Board member
• Appointment of Catherine Jurczyk to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee
• T‑Mobile petition to remove six antennas and install six new 5G‑capable antennas at 117 Oregon Road (Residential “A” District)
• MetroWest Facilities LLC request for site‑plan and design‑review permits for a youth soccer field and related amenities at 240‑260 Pleasant Street (Industrial, Groundwater Protection Overlay, MBTA Communities Multi‑Family Overlay districts)
• MetroWest Young Men’s Christian Association request for special permits to develop a full‑service YMCA, early learning center, playground, parking, and fields on 12.55 acres at 30 Memorial Drive (Rail Transit District RTD‑C and RTD‑D)

The joint Select Board and Planning Board meeting appointed Paul Montesino to the Planning Board for a term ending May 2026, with an 8‑0‑0 vote. The board also appointed Kate Jurczyk as the Precinct 4 Representative to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, also by an 8‑0‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a 4‑0‑0 vote.

• Appointed Paul Montesino to the Planning Board (8-0-0)
• Appointed Kate Jurczyk as Precinct 4 Representative to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (8-0-0)
• Adjourned the Select Board meeting (4-0-0)

Select Board

The Select Board and Planning Board are holding a joint meeting to review and vote on appointments. The boards will consider candidates for the Planning Board and a representative for the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee.

• Vote on appointing Paul Montesino as a Planning Board Member and Associate Planning Board Member
• Vote on appointing Catherine Jurczyk as the Precinct 4 Representative on the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The board approved the appointment of Paul Montesino to the Planning Board for a term ending May 2026 with an 8‑0‑0 vote. It also approved Kate Jurczyk as the Precinct 4 Representative on the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, also by an 8‑0‑0 vote. Finally, the board moved to adjourn the meeting, which passed 4‑0‑0.

• Appointed Paul Montesino to the Planning Board (8-0-0)
• Appointed Kate Jurczyk as Precinct 4 Representative to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (8-0-0)
• Adjourned the Select Board meeting (4-0-0)

School Committee

The Ashland School Committee will meet to consider a proposed increase in nutrition services meal costs. The body will also discuss the allocation of school choice funds for the AHS Auditorium and other buildings and departments.

• Proposed meal cost increase for Nutrition Services
• School Choice Allocation for AHS Auditorium
• School Choice Allocation to Buildings and Departments
• Appointment of Superintendent to the Board of Directors for the ACCEPT Collaborative
• Approval of gifts, donations, and grant allocations

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee will review subcommittee objectives and updates on trail markers and UTV repairs. The body will meet in executive session to discuss the acquisition of parcels abutting the Town Forest.

• UCC land updates regarding signs, kiosks, and trail markers
• UTV repairs
• Clean up at the Bungalow
• Ashland Day event on October 4th
• Executive session regarding land protection and acquisition of abutting parcels

The Town Forest Committee approved the minutes from the August 13 meeting. It authorized up to $80 for new trail markers and approved the purchase of 50‑100 CAVE Loop markers. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved August 13 minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved up to $80 for trail markers (5-0-0)
• Approved purchase of 50‑100 CAVE Loop markers (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Ashland Sustainability Committee will review prior minutes and then discuss its 2025 priorities, including engagement with Ashland Public Schools, a community solar initiative, and the Recycle Works pilot program. Updates on the Energize Ashland program and artificial turf will also be presented. The meeting will conclude with any other business.

• Ashland Public Schools Engagement
• Community Solar
• Recycle Works Pilot Program
• Artificial Turf
• Energize Ashland Updates

Historical Commission

The Ashland Historical Commission will meet on September 9, 2025 to review several community heritage topics. Items include updates on the Village Burial Ground and a new sign, discussion of the Local Historic District, and planning for upcoming events such as Ashland Day and the farmer's market. The commission will also consider a discussion labeled "40 B" related to Senator Spilka and will elect new officers. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Village Burial Ground – updates and sign unveiling
• Local Historic District discussion
• Ashland Day table scheduled for 10/4/2025
• Farmer’s market scheduled for 10‑11/2025
• Election of officers for the commission

The commission approved the July 8, 2025 minutes by unanimous roll‑call vote. Members elected Jim Neilsen as Chair, Joanna Sorensen as Vice Chair, and Helen Nickole as Clerk for the 2025‑26 term, each passing unanimously. The next meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 7:30 PM. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved July 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous roll‑call)
• Elected Jim Neilsen as Chair for 2025‑26 (unanimous roll‑call)
• Elected Joanna Sorensen as Vice Chair for 2025‑26 (unanimous roll‑call)
• Elected Helen Nickole as Clerk for 2025‑26 (unanimous roll‑call)
• Set next meeting for Oct 14, 2025 at 7:30 PM
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will continue public hearings for several large-scale residential projects and smaller property variances. The board will also conduct an election of officers.

• 10-60 Main Street: Proposed 250 apartment units, 337 parking spaces, and 7,500 sq. ft. of commercial space
• 61 Waverly Street: Proposed five-story building with 226 apartment units and 391 parking spaces
• 55 West Union Street: Proposed four-story building with 116 rental units (29 income-restricted)
• 30 Memorial Drive: Variance request for 262 parking spaces by MetroWest YMCA
• 24 Pinecrest Lane: Special Permit for a partial second story, rear addition, deck, and garage bay

The Board re‑elected John Trefethen as Chair and Brian Forestal as Clerk (4‑0‑0 each). It granted a Special Permit for 24 Pinecrest Lane (3‑0‑0). The public hearing on the YMCA variance was closed (4‑0‑0) and the requested 9‑by‑18‑foot parking‑space variance was approved (3‑0‑0).

• Re‑elected John Trefethen as Chair (4-0-0)
• Re‑elected Brian Forestal as Clerk (4-0-0)
• Granted Special Permit for 24 Pinecrest Lane (3-0-0)
• Closed public hearing on YMCA variance (4-0-0)
• Approved YMCA parking‑space variance (3-0-0)

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The Open Space & Recreation Committee will review edits to the Open Space and Recreation Plan, set criteria for focus areas, and establish an estimated finish date to begin public comment. The meeting will also approve minutes from 8/12/25, discuss upcoming Ashland Day (Oct 4) and Haying Day events, and receive updates on the Comprehensive Plan, land stewardship, stormwater, and the Upper Charles Trail. The next meeting is scheduled for October 14.

• Review and edit Action Plan for the Open Space and Recreation Plan
• Set criteria for areas of focus in the plan
• Determine estimated finish date to start public comment
• Discuss Ashland Day event planned for October 4
• Discuss Haying Day event planned for late September

The Open Space & Recreation Committee approved the minutes from 8/12/25 (6‑0‑0). It discussed and edited the OSRP Action Plan, with Ms. Soolman tasked to send the edits to Ms. Solomon. The committee set a follow‑up meeting for Sep 15 at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom to finish Ashland Day planning and other pending items. The meeting was then adjourned (7‑0‑0).

• Approved minutes of 8/12/25 (vote 6-0-0)
• Edited OSRP Action Plan; Ms. Soolman to send edits to Ms. Solomon
• Scheduled next meeting for Sep 15 at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom
• Adjourned meeting (vote 7-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission voted 6-0-0 to issue a Negative 3 Determination for 15 Hickory Road, requiring erosion controls if excavation or granular material placement, with contractor discretion and prior agent approval. The Commission also closed the Notice of Intent hearing for 16 Sudbury Road (4-0-2) and approved its Order of Conditions (4-0-2). Hearings for four other projects were continued to September 29, 2025, each passing 6-0-0.

• Negative 3 Determination for 15 Hickory Road with erosion control condition (6-0-0)
• Closed Notice of Intent hearing for 16 Sudbury Road (4-0-2)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 16 Sudbury Road (4-0-2)
• Continued hearing for 30 Memorial Drive to Sep 29, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 90 Waverly Street to Sep 29, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 71 Spring Street to Sep 29, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 240-260 Pleasant Street to Sep 29, 2025 (6-0-0)

Council on Aging

The council approved the August 7, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0). Members approved Steve as Vice Chair and approved Eve as a Select Board member on the COA board. The meeting was adjourned (5‑0).

• Approved August 7, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved Steve as Vice Chair (all members)
• Approved Eve as Select Board member on COA board (approved)
• Motion to adjourn approved (5-0)

Select Board

The Board approved the appointment of Jeanne Horner to the Open Space and Recreation Committee. It accepted the resignations of eight members from the Mindess School Building Committee and then dissolved and reconstituted that committee with 11 members. Several procedural items were also approved, including regular‑session minutes, a crossing‑guard appointment, and a new Council on Aging member. The Board set a joint interview meeting with the Planning Board for September 11, 2025.

• Appointed Jeanne Horner to Open Space and Recreation Committee (term expires 8/31/2028) – approved 5-0-0
• Accepted resignations of eight Mindess School Building Committee members – approved 5-0-0
• Dissolved current Mindess School Building Committee and reconstituted it with 11 members – approved 5-0-0
• Chair Joseph Magnani will respond to incoming emails and share responses in meeting packets – decision
• Planned joint Planning Board meeting on Sept 11, 2025 to interview and fill two vacancies – decision
• Approved regular session minutes from May 7, Aug 6, and Aug 20, 2025 – consent agenda
• Approved appointment of Christine Almeida as Crossing Guard and waived 15‑day waiting period – consent agenda
• Appointed Eve Maree Aseltine to Council on Aging (term expires 8/31/26) – consent agenda

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on several development requests, including two large multifamily housing projects. The board will also consider variances and special permits for residential additions and parking expansions.

• 55 West Union Street: Proposed 116-unit rental building (87 market rate, 29 income restricted)
• 61 Waverly Street: Continued hearing for a proposed 226-unit apartment building with 391 parking spaces
• 30 Memorial Dr: Variance request by MetroWest YMCA for 262 parking spaces
• 17 Central Street: Special Permit for a garage and bedroom addition
• 24 Pinecrest Ln: Special Permit for a partial second story, rear addition, and garage bay

The Zoning Board of Appeals continued several pending hearings to its next meeting on September 9, each by a unanimous 4-0 vote. Items continued include the 55 West Union Street 40B Comprehensive Permit, the 61 Waverly Street 40B Comprehensive Permit, the 30 Memorial Drive variance, and the 17 Central Street special permit. The board also tabled the 17 Central Street special permit because the applicant was absent. No decision was made on the 24 Pinecrest Lane special permit.

• Continued 55 West Union St 40B Comprehensive Permit hearing to Sep 9 (4-0-0)
• Continued 61 Waverly St 40B Comprehensive Permit hearing to Sep 9 (4-0-0)
• Continued 30 Memorial Dr variance hearing to Sep 9 (4-0-0)
• Tabled 17 Central St special permit hearing (applicant absent)
• Continued 17 Central St special permit hearing to Sep 9 (4-0-0)
• Continued 17 Central St special permit hearing (second motion) to Sep 9 (4-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission voted 4‑0‑0 to issue a Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for 62 Pond Street, requiring erosion controls, use of a bobcat or similar tracked vehicle for debris removal, and installation of four bounds along the tree‑line. The commission also voted 4‑0‑0 to issue a Negative 2 Determination of Applicability for 5 Grover Road with no additional conditions. No decision was made on the Notice of Intent for 16 Sudbury Road.

• Issued Negative 3 Determination for 62 Pond St; conditions: erosion controls, bobcat debris removal, four bounds (4-0-0)
• Issued Negative 2 Determination for 5 Grover Rd with no conditions (4-0-0)
• No decision taken on Notice of Intent for 16 Sudbury Rd

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The committee approved revisions to the draft, including removing the phrase “BIPOC population” and replacing it with “the cultural diversity has grown.” A survey will be sent to all committee members to collect further feedback. Four hybrid public forums were scheduled for August 25, September 2, September 4, and September 8 to present the plan to residents.

• Removed phrase “BIPOC population” and replaced with “the cultural diversity has grown”
• Agreed to send a survey to the entire Committee for additional input
• Scheduled four public forums (Aug 25, Sep 2, Sep 4, Sep 8) for community engagement on the plan

Select Board

The Select Board will consider funding and a gift account for Ashland Day and requests to extend serving areas for Ashland Fish and Game events. The board will also address numerous committee reappointments and current vacancies. The Town Manager will provide updates on the FY26 budget and the Community Aggregation Program.

• Vote to create a gift account and discuss funding for Ashland Day on October 4, 2025
• Requests to extend serving areas for Ashland Fish and Game events on September 6 and September 20, 2025
• Reappointments for multiple boards including Affordable Housing Trust, Conservation Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals
• Approval of a block party on Windsor Drive for September 6, 2025
• Re-appointment of Barry Sims, MetroWest Constable Service, as Constable through November 20, 2028

The Select Board approved extending the serving area for three Ashland Fish & Game events. It opened the BAA and Community Grant Fall Round, setting a September 30 deadline for applications. Several community‑related actions were approved, including a $250 sponsorship for the Kidde Fenwal Car Show, creation of a special gift account for Ashland Day 2025, and a $1,500 transfer to that account. The board also approved the consent agenda, re‑appointing the town constable and authorizing a block party on Windsor Drive.

• Approved serving‑area extensions for three Fish & Game events (5-0-0)
• Approved opening of BAA and Community Grant Fall Round; submissions due Sep 30 (5-0-0)
• Approved sponsorship of Kidde Fenwal Car Show for $250 (5-0-0)
• Created special gift account for Ashland Day 2025 (5-0-0)
• Approved transfer of $1,500 from Select Board Gift Account to Ashland Day 2025 account (5-0-0)
• Approved re‑appointment of Barry Sims as Constable (5-0-0)
• Approved block party on Windsor Drive Sep 6‑7, pending coordination (5-0-0)
• Approved list of Board appointees and reappointments (5-0-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health approved a grease‑trap waiver for Cheirin Bao at 12 Pond Street. It also added a new Pastry & Beverage Permit fee to the fee schedule. The consent agenda, including FY2026 budget reports and July minutes, was approved, and the meeting was formally adjourned.

• Approved Grease Trap Waiver for Cheirin Bao (5-0-0)
• Approved Pastry & Beverage Permit fee addition to Fee Schedule (5-0-0)
• Approved FY2026 YTD Budget Reports and July 15 minutes (consent agenda) (5-0-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (5-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will meet to review previous minutes and discuss 2025 priorities, including farmers market planning, community solar, and a recycle works pilot program. The meeting will also include updates on the Energize Ashland initiative and public school engagement.

• Review and approve previous committee minutes
• Discussion of 2025 priorities: farmers market planning, community solar, and recycle works pilot
• Energize Ashland updates
• Ashland Public Schools Engagement
• Public hearing on citizen participation

The Sustainability Committee approved the minutes from the July 15 meeting. It also decided to have committee members speak in favor of sustainability features at each future ZBA meeting for 40B developments. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Approved July 15 minutes (no vote tally provided)
• Committed to have members speak for sustainability at every ZBA meeting (no vote tally provided)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved motions to continue discussion of the 240‑260 Pleasant Street project and the 30 Memorial Drive YMCA project at the September 11, 2025 meeting. Both motions passed unanimously with a 3‑0‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a 3‑0‑0 vote.

• Continue discussion on 240‑260 Pleasant Street (MetroWest Facilities LLC) to Sept 11, 2025 (3‑0‑0)
• Continue discussion on 30 Memorial Drive (YMCA) to Sept 11, 2025 (3‑0‑0)
• Adjourn meeting (3‑0‑0)

Select Board

The Select Board Sub-Committee will meet to discuss the implementation of process improvements. These improvements were recommended during the June 4, 2025 Select Board meeting.

• Implementation of process improvements recommended at the June 4, 2025 Select Board Meeting

Historical Commission

The Ashland Historical Commission voted to enact a demolition delay for the property at 366 Pleasant Street/2-4 High Street. All six members voted aye, and the motion passed unanimously. The commission will notify the building inspector and is open to negotiating a shorter delay if the developer proposes façade preservation. The meeting was adjourned at 7:52 PM.

• Enacted demolition delay on 366 Pleasant Street/2-4 High Street (unanimous aye vote)
• Closed the public hearing at 7:49 PM
• Adjourning the meeting at 7:52 PM

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will reopen public hearings for two Comprehensive Permit requests under M.G.L. Chapter 40B. The board will also review a draft decision for approval regarding Pleasant Street.

• 10-60 Main Street: Petition for two multifamily buildings with 250 apartment units, 337 parking spaces, and 7,500 sq. ft. of commercial/retail space
• 61 Waverly Street: Petition for one five-story multifamily building with 226 apartment units and 391 parking spaces
• Pleasant Street: Review of draft decision for approval

The Ashland Zoning Board of Appeals met on August 12, 2025 and noted that two agenda items—a Special Permit and the 40B Comprehensive Permit Request for 55 West Union—were not scheduled. The Board reopened the public hearing on the 40B Comprehensive Permit for the SLV Ashland, LLC project at 10‑60 Main Street and discussed design updates, environmental concerns, and community input. No vote or formal decision was recorded during this meeting.

Roadway Traffic Safety Committee

The committee reviewed updates on speed signs, caution signs, a proposed 40B project, sidewalk construction, and crosswalk repainting. No motions, votes, or approvals were recorded. New business included letters from Pincushion Montessori School and Rob Daly. The meeting was adjourned without any decisions.

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The Open Space & Recreation Committee approved the July 8 minutes by a 6‑0 vote. Members reviewed the draft Open Space Recreation Plan and added several new actions, such as acquiring trail properties and creating a downtown historic district. The committee decided the Kite Day event should be held in spring rather than fall. It also voted 6‑0 to have a town booth at Ashland Day, pending further details on requirements and fees.

• Approved minutes of 7/8/25 (6-0-0)
• Added new actions to OSRP draft (e.g., acquire trail properties, create historic district)
• Decided Kite Day will be scheduled for spring, not fall
• Voted 6-0 to participate with a booth at Ashland Day (pending requirements)
• Scheduled next OSRC meeting for September 9, 2025

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid meeting to hear requests for stormwater management permits and notices of intent for wetlands development at 30 Memorial Drive, 90 Waverly Street, and 71 Spring Street.

• Notice of Intent, 30 Memorial Drive (MetroWest YMCA)
• Notice of Intent, 90 Waverly Street (Victor Mourao)
• Notice of Intent, 71 Spring Street (HOLCIM US)
• Request for Stormwater Management Permit, 240-260 Pleasant Street (Metrowest Facilities)
• Discussion of 40B Application, 55 West Union Street

The Ashland Conservation Commission voted 6‑0‑0 to continue hearings on four stormwater-related notices until September 8, 2025. It also amended the Enforcement Order for Hopkinton State Park, extending the restoration‑plan deadline to October 10, 2025. The commission approved the July 28, 2025 meeting minutes and then adjourned.

• Continue hearing for 30 Memorial Drive Notice of Intent to Sep 8, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continue hearing for 90 Waverly Street Notice of Intent to Sep 8, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continue hearing for 71 Spring Street Notice of Intent to Sep 8, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continue hearing for 240-260 Pleasant Street Stormwater Management Permit to Sep 8, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Amend Enforcement Order for Hopkinton State Park, extending restoration plan deadline to Oct 10, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Approve July 28, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (6-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting (6-0-0)

Select Board

The Board approved a Sunday entertainment license for Clover Road Brewing, allowing music and performances from noon to 8 p.m. on Sundays. It also opened the Special Town Meeting warrant for the November 19, 2025 meeting and approved a regulatory agreement for Habitat for Humanity at 487 Main Street. The Eversource location hearing was withdrawn at the petitioner's request.

• Approved opening of Clover Road Sunday Entertainment hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved suspending the Clover Road hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved reopening the Clover Road hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved closing the Clover Road hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved Sunday Entertainment License for Clover Road Brewing, noon‑8 p.m. (5-0-0)
• Approved opening Special Town Meeting warrant for Nov 19, 2025 (4-0-1)
• Approved regulatory agreement for 487 Main Street Habitat for Humanity project (5-0-0)
• Noted withdrawal of Eversource location hearing (no vote)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission postponed the public hearing on 366 Central Street to August 12, 2025 at 7:30 PM, passing the motion unanimously. The commission also tabled approval of the meeting minutes, delaying that action until the September meeting. No other formal actions were approved.

• Postponed public hearing on 366 Central St to Aug 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of all meeting minutes until September meeting (motion adopted)

Sustainability Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the July 15th meeting. Members discussed a plastic‑reduction campaign with Skip the Stuff and planned outreach to Beth, the ABA, and Raj to gauge support and consider a related bylaw. The sustainability manager reported ongoing work on the greenhouse‑gas inventory, LEED certification and the SEED project for MVP 2.0. An update on the farmer’s market table and a possible Heat Pump Pizza Party with Hopkinton was also shared.

• Approved minutes from July 15th

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted 6-0-0 to issue a Certificate of Compliance for the new Ashland State Park pedestrian bridge. It also voted 6-0-0 to continue hearings for three permit applications to the August 11, 2025 meeting. Additionally, the commission approved a minor modification request for 6 Chestnut Street with a 6-0-0 vote.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for Ashland State Park Pedestrian Bridge (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 90 Waverly Street, Map 10 Parcel 70 to Aug 11, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 71 Spring Street, Map 27 Parcel 98 to Aug 11, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 240-260 Pleasant Street, Map 13 Parcels 108‑109 to Aug 11, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Approved minor modification request for 6 Chestnut Street, Map 14 Parcel 474 (6-0-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a motion to continue the public hearing for the 240‑260 Pleasant Street site plan review to August 14. The motion was made by Chair Tricia Kendall, seconded by Vice‑Chair Anna Tesmenitsky, and passed unanimously 5‑0. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Continue 240‑260 Pleasant Street public hearing to Aug 14 (5‑0 vote)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted 5‑0‑0 to dismiss the special permit request for 167‑169 Pleasant Street due to the applicant’s failure to prosecute. The Board also voted to continue the hearings for the 61 Waverly Street and 10‑60 Main Street comprehensive permit applications to August 12, 2025. Minutes from the June 10, June 24 and July 8 meetings were approved unanimously.

• Continued 61 Waverly St, 40B Comprehensive Permit hearing to Aug 12, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Dismissed 167-169 Pleasant St Special Permit, denied without prejudice (5-0-0)
• Continued 10-60 Main St, 40B Comprehensive Permit hearing to Aug 12, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Approved June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved June 24, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved July 8, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Steering Committee approved the minutes from May 15, May 19, and June 26, 2025. It kept the five high‑priority strategies in the plan and decided not to remove the low‑priority strategies after a straw poll. The Committee agreed to add several new strategies, set a public comment period between the August and September meetings, and scheduled a joint meeting for October 15 at 7:00 PM. Former member Kate Jurczyk was authorized to submit suggested changes.

• Approved meeting minutes for May 15, May 19, and June 26, 2025
• Kept five high‑priority strategies in the Comprehensive Plan
• Decided not to remove low‑priority strategies after straw poll
• Agreed to incorporate new strategies on parking, sports fields, drainage, school fields, ADA compliance, land‑use transparency, Stone Park revitalization, boutique‑hotel zoning, and town‑beautification fees
• Set public comment period for the draft plan between the August meeting and September
• Scheduled joint Select Board/Planning Board meeting for October 15 at 7:00 PM
• Authorized former Committee member Kate Jurczyk to submit suggested changes
• Requested comments and photo suggestions be emailed to Mr. Smith

Select Board

The Select Board appointed Peter Wilner to the Historical Commission and approved a malt and wine liquor license for Marathon Mobil at 103 West Union Street. It also approved Eversource's request to install a new utility pole for a solar project on Chestnut Street near Joanne Drive. The Board reappointed Michael Herbert to the MetroWest Veterans Services District and authorized repainting the Village Burial Ground sign for about $240.

• Appointed Peter Wilner to the Historical Commission (term expires 8/31/2027) – vote 4-0-0
• Approved Marathon Mobil malt and wine liquor license – vote 4-0-0
• Approved Eversource pole installation on Chestnut Street near Joanne Drive – vote 4-0-0
• Reappointed Michael Herbert as Ashland’s representative to MetroWest Veterans Services District – vote 5-0-0
• Authorized repainting of Village Burial Ground sign (approx. $240) – board approved
• Suspended the initial public hearing for the Marathon Mobil liquor license – vote 4-0-0
• Reopened the public hearing for the Marathon Mobil liquor license – vote 4-0-0
• Closed the public hearing for the Marathon Mobil liquor license – vote 4-0-0

Board of Health

The Board of Health approved the FY2026 year‑to‑date budget reports and the June 3 and June 17, 2025 meeting minutes by a 5‑0‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a 5‑0‑0 vote. No other formal actions were taken; remaining items were discussed or noted as ongoing.

• Approved FY2026 YTD Budget Reports (5-0-0)
• Approved June 3 and June 17, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the May 13 and July 1 meetings. It decided to move forward with a Skip‑the‑Stuff campaign to reduce plastic waste, noting a preference by the vice‑chair for a ban on those items. The next meeting was set for July 29 at 7:00 pm via Zoom.

• Approved minutes from May 13 and July 1 (no vote recorded)
• Decided to move forward with Skip‑the‑Stuff campaign (no vote recorded)
• Scheduled next meeting for July 29, 7:00 pm on Zoom

Roadway Traffic Safety Committee

The Traffic Safety Committee approved the minutes from the prior meeting (6‑0). It approved installing 25 mph speed limit signs on the entire stretch of E. Union St at a cost of $2,630.80, with work to begin in a few weeks before the school opens. The committee voted down a solar‑powered stop sign and approved trimming brush back 3‑4 feet and posting no‑parking signs on Pine Hill Rd. The next meeting is set for August 12, 2025.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (6‑0)
• Approved 25 mph speed signs on E. Union St (cost $2,630.80)
• Voted down solar‑powered stop sign
• Approved trimming brush back 3‑4 ft on Pine Hill Rd
• Approved posting no‑parking signs on Pine Hill Rd
• Scheduled next meeting for August 12, 2025

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission closed the hearing on the request for determination of applicability at 62 Fountain Street and voted 5‑0‑0 to issue a Negative 3 Determination, requiring a revised plan that shows the stockpile location. The commission also voted 5‑0‑0 to continue the hearing on the Notice of Intent and Stormwater Management Permit for 30 Memorial Drive to August 11, 2025.

• Closed hearing for 62 Fountain Street request (5-0-0 vote)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for 62 Fountain Street, with condition to show stockpile location on revised plan (5-0-0 vote)
• Continued hearing for 30 Memorial Drive stormwater permit request to August 11, 2025 (5-0-0 vote)

Select Board

The Select Board agreed to draft a formal policy that will guide when and how town staff may assist volunteer committees. It also approved a process to vet new community events before staff involvement and set a target to keep 20% staff capacity for unplanned work. The Board will finalize project‑evaluation criteria by the August meeting and develop a staffing and workload report.

• Approved drafting a formal policy for staff support to volunteer committees
• Agreed to create a list of currently staffed volunteer groups for review
• Decided new community events must be vetted by the Board before staff involvement
• Set a target to preserve 20% staff capacity for emergent work
• Committed to shift staff focus to core day‑to‑day responsibilities
• Planned to finalize and roll out project evaluation criteria in August
• Will develop a staffing and workload report including committee support
• Scheduled a follow‑up Tri‑Board meeting

Planning Board

The board approved the amended T‑Mobile antenna permit and the Verizon antenna permit for 34 Albert Ray Drive, each by a 4‑0‑0 vote. It also approved Eversource’s scenic‑road tree‑pruning permit and continued the 240‑260 Pleasant Street hearing to July 24. The June 12 minutes were approved and the meeting adjourned at 8:21 PM.

• Approved T‑Mobile amended antenna permit (34 Albert Ray Drive) – vote 4‑0‑0
• Approved Verizon antenna permit (34 Albert Ray Drive) – vote 4‑0‑0
• Approved Eversource scenic‑road tree‑pruning permit – vote 4‑0‑0
• Continued 240‑260 Pleasant Street hearing to July 24 – vote 4‑0‑0
• Approved June 12 meeting minutes – vote 3‑0‑0
• Adjourned meeting at 8:21 PM – vote 3‑0‑0

Town Forest Committee

The committee tabled approval of the June 11, 2025 minutes to the next meeting. Members agreed by consensus that any committee member may call police to report cars parked improperly in Oak Street spots. A motion to make John and Anna associate members was approved unanimously (5-0-0). A motion to adjourn the meeting also passed unanimously (5-0-0).

• Approval of June 11, 2025 minutes tabled to next meeting
• Committee members may call police for inappropriate parking at Oak Street (consensus)
• John and Anna made associate members (5-0-0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (5-0-0)

Historical Commission

The commission accepted the May 6, 2025 meeting minutes and tabled the June 10 minutes. Members unanimously nominated Joanna Sorensen as the Historical Commission’s representative to the CPC. A unanimous vote took no action on the Central Street house demolition issue. The Farmers Market was set for October 11, 2025 and Ashland Day (Sept 10) will be managed by Sorensen and Hoffman.

• Accepted May 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Tabled approval of June 10, 2025 meeting minutes
• Nominated Joanna Sorensen as CPC representative (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Took no action on Central Street house demolition (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Set Farmers Market date for October 11, 2025
• Assigned Ashland Day (Sept 10, 2025) management to Joanna Sorensen and Curtiss Hoffman
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous roll‑call vote)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously (5-0-0) to continue the public hearing on the 61 Waverly Street comprehensive permit to August 12, 2025. The Board also unanimously tabled the June 10, 2025 meeting minutes and adjourned the session.

• Continue hearing on 61 Waverly Street permit to Aug 12, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Table June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting (5-0-0)

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The Open Space & Recreation Committee approved the minutes from the February 11 and June 10, 2025 meetings by a 4‑0 vote. The committee decided to defer all updates and planning discussions to the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:35 p.m. after a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved February 11, 2025 minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved June 10, 2025 minutes (4-0-0)
• Deferred updates and planning items to next meeting
• Adjourned meeting at 9:35 p.m. (5-0-0)
• Scheduled next OSRC meeting for August 12, 2025

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee discussed the West Union 40B letter, school outreach, a business recycling pilot, a plastic‑utensil campaign, and community solar options. Members agreed on several next steps but no formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

• Add line to West Union 40B letter stating the committee will be open to further research
• Ash to create graphic examples for a campaign encouraging restaurants to provide plastic utensils only on demand
• Chuck and Rob to contact a solar company for recommendations and size minimums
• Cara to regroup with Stone's restaurant to schedule the next step of the recycling pilot

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The committee tabled approval of the meeting minutes until the next session. It approved several revisions to the Comprehensive Plan, including renaming the Open Space Recreation Committee, keeping separate implementation goals, revising strategy 3.C.12, and striking density‑bonus language from strategy 3.C.13 and removing strategy 2.D.7. No vote tallies were recorded for these actions.

• Tabled approval of minutes until next meeting
• Renamed Open Space Recreation Committee from OSRP to OSR
• Kept separate implementation goals for DPW/School oversight
• Revised strategy 3.C.12 to add “consider expanding” and remove “older residents” wording
• Struck density‑bonus language from strategy 3.C.13
• Struck strategy 2.D.7 (reduce minimum parking requirements) from the plan

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved motions to continue the special‑permit hearings for T‑Mobile and Verizon at 34 Albert Ray Drive, and the site‑plan hearing for MetroWest Facilities LLC at 240‑260 Pleasant Street, moving them to the July 10 meeting. Each motion passed by a 3‑0‑0 roll‑call vote. The board then adjourned the meeting at 8:00 PM by a 3‑0‑0 vote.

• Continue T‑Mobile 34 Albert Ray Drive special permit hearing to July 10 (3-0-0)
• Continue Verizon 34 Albert Ray Drive special permit hearing to July 10 (3-0-0)
• Continue MetroWest Facilities LLC 240‑260 Pleasant Street site‑plan hearing to July 10 (3-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting at 8:00 PM (3-0-0)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the April 29, 2025 draft minutes (4‑0). It approved FY2025 year‑end transfers, including a $400,000 transfer from the Reserve Fund (5‑0). Jon Moore was elected Chair (4‑0, Moore abstained) and Chantal Kokoram was elected Vice Chair (5‑0). A vote on the Clerk position was deferred and the meeting was adjourned (5‑0).

• Approved April 29, 2025 draft minutes (4-0)
• Approved FY2025 year‑end transfers, including $400,000 Reserve Fund transfer (5-0)
• Elected Jon Moore as Chair (4-0, Moore abstained)
• Elected Chantal Kokoram as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Deferred vote on Clerk position
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted 5‑0‑0 to continue the public hearing on the special permit for 167‑169 Pleasant Street, setting the next hearing for July 22, 2025 and stating it will be the last continuance granted. The Board also voted 5‑0‑0 to continue the public hearing on the 40B comprehensive permit for 61 Waverly Street, moving it to July 8, 2025 for further discussion of traffic and engineering issues.

• Continue hearing for 167‑169 Pleasant Street special permit to July 22, 2025 (5‑0‑0)
• Continue hearing for 61 Waverly Street 40B comprehensive permit to July 8, 2025 (5‑0‑0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved an amended Order of Conditions for the force main replacement at 529 Chestnut Street. It also voted to continue hearings for four other projects (66 West Union, 90 Waverly, 71 Spring, and 240‑260 Pleasant Street) to future dates. All motions passed with a 6‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved Amended Order of Conditions for 529 Chestnut Street (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 66 West Union Street to July 14, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 90 Waverly Street to July 14, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 71 Spring Street to July 14, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 240-260 Pleasant Street to June 23, 2025 (6-0-0)

Select Board

The Board voted 4‑0‑0 to reappoint Mead, Talerman and Costa as Town Counsel for fiscal year 2026. It also approved the year‑end transfer balance sheets totaling $348,000 and authorized the Eagle Scout gazebo repair project at Stone Park. The consent agenda items, including the appointment of Camilo Espitia to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, were accepted unanimously.

• Reappointed Town Counsel Mead, Talerman, Costa for FY2026 (4-0-0)
• Approved year‑end transfer balance sheets totaling $348,000 (4-0-0)
• Approved Eagle Scout gazebo repair and table replacement project at Stone Park (4-0-0)
• Accepted consent agenda items, including Council on Aging appointment and event permits (4-0-0)
• Appointed Camilo Espitia as Planning Board representative to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (4-0-0)

Board of Health

The Board voted 4‑0‑0 to approve a variance allowing Krua Khan Yah to prepare sushi, requiring an unannounced inspection within 30 days and the regular semi‑annual inspections. The FY2025 year‑to‑date budget was also approved unanimously. The Board decided to keep the current officer lineup unchanged. The Board scheduled one meeting for July and one for August.

• Approved variance for Krua Khan Yah sushi preparation, with 30‑day unannounced inspection (4-0-0)
• Approved FY2025 year‑to‑date budget (4-0-0)
• Approved keeping current Board officer makeup (4-0-0)
• Planned one Board meeting in July and one in August (no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The Board voted 5-0-0 to appoint Camilo Espitia as the Planning Board’s second member on the Comprehensive Plan Committee. It also approved Tricia Kendall as Board Clerk and appointed Deepa Venkat to the MetroWest Regional Collaborative, each by a 5-0-0 vote. The May 8 and May 22 meeting minutes were approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Appointed Camilo Espitia to Comprehensive Plan Committee (5-0-0)
• Appointed Tricia Kendall as Board Clerk (Chair) (5-0-0)
• Appointed Deepa Venkat to MetroWest Regional Collaborative (5-0-0)
• Approved May 8, 2025 meeting minutes as presented (5-0-0)
• Approved May 22, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:18 PM (5-0-0)

Town Forest Committee

The Town Forest Committee approved several expenditures, including $300 for completing a garage door opener and $700 to repair a UTV switch, each with a 4-0-0 vote. The committee also approved the minutes from previous meetings, accepted the accounting report, and authorized a $60.74 expense for witness stakes. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved minutes from April 9 and May 14, 2025 (4-0-0)
• Accepted accounting report (4-0-0)
• Approved $60.74 expense for witness stakes (4-0-0)
• Approved up to $300 for garage door opener installation (4-0-0)
• Approved up to $700 to fix UTV switch (4-0-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (4-0-0)

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The board voted to approve the minutes from the December 30, 2024 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of Dec 30 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission voted unanimously to table the May 6, 2025 meeting minutes. The commission then voted unanimously to adjourn the June 10, 2025 meeting. No other actions were approved or denied.

• Tabled May 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously voted to continue the public hearing for the special permit at 167‑169 Pleasant Street, the 40B comprehensive permit at 61 Waverly Street, and the 40B comprehensive permit at 10‑60 Main Street. All three hearings were rescheduled to the next meeting on June 24, 2025 at 7:00 PM. No other actions were taken.

• Continuance of public hearing for 167‑169 Pleasant Street special permit (5-0-0)
• Continuance of public hearing for 61 Waverly Street 40B comprehensive permit (5-0-0)
• Continuance of public hearing for 10‑60 Main Street 40B comprehensive permit (5-0-0)

Roadway Traffic Safety Committee

The committee noted the Arts Council request to decorate electrical boxes is on hold. A lengthy discussion was held about placing electronic gates on Captain Eames and Algonquin Trail, with no resolution reached. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Motion to adjourn approved (vote 7‑0)

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The committee voted unanimously (6-0-0) to approve the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting. Members also voted unanimously (6-0-0) to adjourn the June 10 meeting. The next Open Space & Recreation Committee meeting was set for July 8, 2025. No other motions were adopted.

• Approved April 8, 2025 minutes (6-0-0)
• Adjourned June 10 meeting (6-0-0)
• Scheduled next meeting for July 8, 2025

Council on Aging

The board approved the May 1, 2025 meeting minutes and the Directors report, each by a 4‑0 vote. Donna Rombauer was appointed chair of the Council on Aging with a 4‑0 vote, and Rosangela Wilner was appointed to the council, also by a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned by a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved May 1, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Directors report (4-0)
• Appointed Donna Rombauer as chair of COA (4-0)
• Appointed Rosangela Wilner to COA (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Select Board

The board voted unanimously to approve the installation of a 78‑foot conduit for Eversource at 30‑34 Albert Ray Drive. It also approved the creation of a 1,000‑foot school zone on East Union Street with a 20 mph speed limit when school is in session. The consent agenda, which included several one‑day licenses and a $3,000 grant, was approved, and the May 21, 2025 minutes were accepted. The board kept the senior scholarship count at two $2,000 awards and set the summer meeting dates.

• Approved Eversource conduit work at 30‑34 Albert Ray Drive (4‑0‑0)
• Approved change to School Zone on East Union Street (4‑0‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items—including one‑day licenses for Decanted Inc. and Clover Road Brewing Co., Car Show extension, and $3,000 BAA grant (4‑0‑0)
• Accepted regular session minutes from May 21, 2025 (4‑0‑0)
• Decided to keep senior scholarships at two $2,000 awards (no change)
• Set summer meeting schedule: July 12 (retreat), July 16, August 6, August 20

Board of Health

The Board of Health approved five separate variances allowing a subsurface sewage disposal system at 12 Oak Tree Lane with specific conditions, all with a 4‑0‑0 vote. It also approved external grease‑trap waivers for listed food establishments and the FY2025 year‑to‑date budget reports, each by a 4‑0‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 6:45 PM.

• Approved variance to allow subsurface sewage disposal system without garbage disposal, deed restriction (12 Oak Tree Lane) – vote 4-0-0
• Approved variance to locate disposal components 27.6 ft from wetlands (vs 75 ft required) – vote 4-0-0
• Approved variance to use sieve analysis instead of percolation test – vote 4-0-0
• Approved variance to reduce soil separation from 4 ft to 2 ft – vote 4-0-0
• Approved variance to reduce inlet/outlet tee separation from 12 in – vote 4-0-0
• Approved external grease‑trap waivers for listed food establishments – vote 4-0-0
• Approved FY2025 year‑to‑date budget reports (consent agenda) – vote 4-0-0
• Adjourned meeting – vote 4-0-0

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved continuances for three pending hearings to June 23, 2025. It ratified an Emergency Certification allowing work on the force main at 529 Chestnut Street to begin. The board also approved issuing a Notice of Completion for the stormwater permit at 100 Chestnut Street.

• Continuance for 66 West Union Street hearing to June 23, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continuance for 90 Waverly Street hearing to June 23, 2025 at 7:05 pm (6-0-0)
• Continuance for 240-260 Pleasant Street hearing to June 23, 2025 at 7:05 pm (6-0-0)
• Ratify Emergency Certification for 529 Chestnut Street force‑main replacement (6-0-0)
• Issue Notice of Completion for 100 Chestnut Street, SMP2022‑3 (6-0-0)

Select Board

The Scholarship Sub‑Committee reviewed applications and decided to ask the Select Board to increase the number of scholarships from two to four, each worth $2,000, and to place that item on the June 4 agenda. The committee also requested the current scholarship fund balance and a three‑year financial summary, and identified two and four applicants pending board approval.

• Requested Select Board increase scholarships to 4 ($2,000 each)
• Requested agenda item addition for June 4 meeting
• Requested updated scholarship fund balance and 3‑year financial data
• Identified two and four applicants pending board action

Select Board

The Select Board Scholarship Sub‑Committee reviewed student applications and discussed their community service. They chose nine finalists for further review, requested copies of all letters of recommendation, and scheduled a follow‑up meeting on June 2, 2025 at 2:00 PM.

• Chosen 9 finalists for further review
• Requested copies of all letters of recommendation
• Scheduled next meeting for June 2, 2025 at 2:00 PM

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted 4‑0‑0 to continue the public hearings for the 167‑169 Pleasant Street special permit, the 61 Waverly Street 40‑B comprehensive permit, and the 10‑60 Main Street 40‑B comprehensive permit to June 10, 2025. No other actions were taken; the board discussed traffic and landscape plans and heard public comments.

• Continuance of 167‑169 Pleasant Street special permit hearing to June 10, 2025 (4‑0‑0)
• Continuance of 61 Waverly Street 40‑B comprehensive permit hearing to June 10, 2025 (4‑0‑0)
• Continuance of 10‑60 Main Street 40‑B comprehensive permit hearing to June 10, 2025 (4‑0‑0)

Roadway Traffic Safety Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting with a unanimous 6‑0 vote. It also agreed to propose converting a 1,000‑ft stretch of E. Union Street from 7 Union St to Nikki Terrace into a school zone, contingent on SelectBoard approval at the June 4 meeting. No other items received a decision; other topics were discussed or deferred.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (6-0)
• Committee agreed to propose 1,000‑ft school zone on E. Union St, pending SelectBoard approval

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission ratified the Enforcement Order for 54 High Street (DEP 95-979) with a unanimous 6‑0‑0 vote. It also approved the comment letter to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding the 40B application at 10‑60 Main Street, again by a 6‑0‑0 vote. A site visit to 66 West Union Street was scheduled for May 29, 2025 at 5:00 pm. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous vote.

• Ratified Enforcement Order for 54 High Street (DEP 95-979) – vote 6-0-0
• Approved comment letter to ZBA for 40B application at 10-60 Main Street – vote 6-0-0
• Scheduled site visit to 66 West Union Street for May 29, 2025 at 5:00 pm (no vote)
• Moved to adjourn meeting – vote 6-0-0

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a motion to continue the 240‑260 Pleasant Street MetroWest Facilities project at the June 12 meeting (3‑0‑0). Members also approved Tricia Kendall as Chair, Anna Tesmenitsky as Vice Chair, and Scott Pelletier as the Board representative to the Community Preservation Committee (each 4‑0‑0). The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Continuance of 240‑260 Pleasant Street project to June 12 approved (3-0-0)
• Tricia Kendall appointed Chair of the Planning Board (4-0-0)
• Anna Tesmenitsky appointed Vice Chair of the Planning Board (4-0-0)
• Scott Pelletier appointed Planning Board representative to Community Preservation Committee (4-0-0)
• Meeting adjourned (4-0-0)

Select Board

The Board unanimously approved Eversource’s request to install about 65 feet of conduit and a new pad transformer at 6 Grover Road. It also approved the recommended BAA grant awards, including $5,138.99 for community dollars and $63,179.80 for non‑profits, plus individual grants of $4,000 to Sportify and $1,000 to Neurodiversity Support for Children. The updated Surplus Disposal Procurement Policy was adopted, and the consent agenda—including various one‑day market licenses—was approved. All votes were 5‑0‑0.

• Approved Eversource project (≈65 ft conduit, pad transformer) – vote 5-0-0
• Approved BAA grant funding: $5,138.99 community, $63,179.80 non‑profit – vote 5-0-0
• Approved $4,000 grant to Sportify – vote 5-0-0
• Approved $1,000 grant to Neurodiversity Support for Children – vote 5-0-0
• Adopted updated Surplus Disposal Procurement Policy – vote 5-0-0
• Approved consent agenda (including market licenses) – vote 5-0-0
• Approved series of motions to open, suspend, reopen, close, and finalize Eversource hearing – each vote 5-0-0

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Steering Committee voted to delete Strategy 3.D.6, which would have amended the zoning bylaw to extend the Ashland Downtown District sub‑area C. It approved developing an equitable town‑wide tree bylaw and keeping a dedicated budget line for public tree maintenance. The Committee also retained strategies for senior housing, a public retirement community, and a town beautification plan, with input to be sent to Goldson by June 1.

• Deleted Strategy 3.D.6 to amend the Downtown District sub‑area C zoning
• Approved development of a town‑wide tree bylaw (no vote tally recorded)
• Kept Strategy 2.C.6 for a dedicated municipal tree‑maintenance budget
• Retained strategies for senior housing and a publicly owned retirement community
• Agreed to create a subcommittee and collect public input for a beautification plan (responses due June 1)
• Decided to keep Strategy 4.B.11 establishing an Athletics and Fields Committee for further discussion
• Planned to review Community Vision Plan for the Aggregate Quarry site at the next meeting
• Approved finalization of strategies and integration into the draft Comprehensive Plan

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Steering Committee approved a Tax Increment Financing fund to support downtown beautification, community events, and infrastructure improvements. It also approved completing the Ashland Upper Charles Trail and Bay Circuit Trail projects. Several strategies were revised, kept, or deleted, and the committee will revisit additional strategies at the next meeting.

• Approved creation of a Tax Increment Financing fund for downtown beautification, community events, and infrastructure improvements
• Approved completion of the Ashland Upper Charles Trail and Bay Circuit Trail projects
• Revised Strategy 4.A.1 to have Goldson and the Committee review a list of 10‑15 beautification locations
• Changed Strategy 4.B.2 wording to “expand capacity” for early childhood education at Pittaway School
• Kept Strategy 5.D.2 for Route 135 corridor improvement plans, revising its language
• Deleted Strategy 3.D.6 (Zoning Bylaw amendment) and Strategy 3.D.7 (Smart Growth and Land Conservation Plan)
• Deleted Strategy 4.A.9 (business needs assessments) and Strategy 5.B.6 (transit training)
• Agreed to continue discussion of additional strategies at the next meeting

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting (2‑0). A motion to go into executive session was passed (2‑0), followed by approval of the executive‑session minutes (2‑0). The board then returned from executive session (2‑0) and adjourned (2‑0). The board also signed RE exemption documents.

• Approved April 16, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Entered executive session (2-0)
• Approved executive‑session minutes (2-0)
• Returned from executive session (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)
• Signed RE exemption documents

Town Forest Committee

The committee approved the May 7th meeting minutes unanimously (5-0-0). A corded hammer drill and bits costing $149.77 were approved for purchase with a 5-0-0 vote, and the accounting report showing $963.75 remaining in the DPW budget was accepted by the same vote count. A motion to mark trails on the former UCC property was passed with a 4-1-0 vote. The April 9th meeting minutes were tabled for the next meeting.

• Approved May 7th meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved purchase of corded hammer drill and bits $149.77 (5-0-0)
• Approved acceptance of accounting report showing $963.75 remaining (5-0-0)
• Approved motion to mark trails on former UCC property (4-1-0)
• Tabled April 9th meeting minutes for next meeting

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously voted to continue the public hearing on the 61 Waverly Street comprehensive permit to May 27, 2025. It also unanimously voted to continue the hearing on the 10‑60 Main Street comprehensive permit to May 27, 2025. No other actions were taken; the board invited public comments on a separate 40B housing proposal.

• Continuance of hearing on 61 Waverly Street Comprehensive Permit (5-0-0)
• Continuance of hearing on 10-60 Main Street Comprehensive Permit (5-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission voted 5‑0‑1 to issue a Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for 72 Thomas Street, requiring the applicant to plant three native shrubs under the guidance of Conservation Agent Becca Solomon and to remove invasive species such as honeysuckle, bittersweet, and multiflora rose under her direction. The same vote also closed the hearing for the 72 Thomas Street case. Additional motions were approved to continue hearings for 66 West Union Street, 90 Waverly Street, and 71 Spring Street, and to issue an Order of Conditions for 12 Oak Tree Lane.

• Negative 3 Determination for 72 Thomas St with shrub‑planting and invasive‑removal conditions (5‑0‑1)
• Closed hearing for 72 Thomas St (5‑0‑1)
• Continued hearing for 66 West Union St to June 2 2025 (6‑0‑0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for 12 Oak Tree Lane (5‑0‑1)
• Closed hearing for 12 Oak Tree Lane (6‑0‑0)
• Continued hearing for 90 Waverly St to June 2 2025 (6‑0‑0)
• Continued hearing for 71 Spring St to June 23 2025 (6‑0‑0)

Public Safety Building Committee

The Public Safety Building Committee accepted the May 2023 meeting minutes with a 4‑0‑0 vote. It then voted 4‑0‑0 to dissolve the committee and adjourn for the final time. No other actions were taken.

• Accepted May 2023 minutes (4-0-0)
• Dissolved Public Safety Building Committee (4-0-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted 4‑0 to continue the public hearing for 240‑260 Pleasant Street to May 22. It also approved a minor modification for the Site Plan Review of 501 Pond Street by a 3‑0 vote. The Board adopted the minutes from the April 10 and April 24 meetings, each by a 4‑0 vote, and then adjourned.

• Continue Pleasant Street public hearing to May 22 (vote 4-0-0)
• Approve Minor Modification for Site Plan Review of 501 Pond Street (vote 3-0-0)
• Approve April 10, 2025 meeting minutes (vote 4-0-0)
• Approve April 24, 2025 meeting minutes (vote 4-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting (vote 4-0-0)

Town Meeting

Voters unanimously approved a $300,000 transfer from the Special Education Stabilization Fund to the General Fund (Article 3). The same vote unanimously tabled the proposed transfer from the General Stabilization Fund to the General Fund until the FY 26 budget is considered (Article 2). The Moderator’s Motions 1‑4 were also approved. No vote was required for the Town Reports (Article 1).

• Tabled Article 2 (General Stabilization Fund transfer) – passed unanimously
• Approved $300,000 transfer from Special Education Stabilization Fund to General Fund – passed unanimously
• Approved Moderator’s Motions 1‑4 – motion passed
• Article 1 Town Reports heard – no vote required

Select Board

The board approved the Open Meeting Law response letter and the consent agenda, which included a $3,121.10 award for sign and facade upgrades at Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina. Members also supported withdrawing Article 16 from the upcoming Town Meeting warrant and appointed Reshum Arora to the Sustainability Committee. The board noted a potential meet‑and‑greet with The Residence at Valley Farm and announced the appointment of Easton Hanson as a Light Equipment Operator.

• Approved Open Meeting Law response letter (5-0-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0-0)
• Awarded $3,121.10 to Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina for sign and facade upgrades (5-0-0)
• Supported withdrawal of Article 16 from Town Meeting warrant
• Appointed Reshum Arora to Sustainability Committee (term expires 8/31/25)
• Notified appointment of Easton Hanson as Light Equipment Operator in Highway Department
• Discussed potential meet‑and‑greet with The Residence at Valley Farm (no vote)

Town Forest Committee

The committee approved the final version of the UCC‑CR that had been recently approved by the State DCS. The approval was unanimous and the document was signed and notarized.

• Approved final UCC‑CR document (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board voted 5-0-0 to not require a lifeguard at The Asher pool located at 100 Chestnut Street. The consent agenda, including FY2025 YTD budget reports and the April 15, 2025 meeting minutes, was also approved by a 5-0-0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Approved lifeguard waiver – Board not require a lifeguard at 100 Chestnut St (5-0-0)
• Approved FY2025 YTD budget reports and April 15, 2025 meeting minutes (consent agenda) (5-0-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (5-0-0)

Historical Commission

The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes from April 15, 2025. They decided to keep the shed‑painting request separate from the CPC funding application. A motion to adjourn the meeting also passed unanimously.

• Approved April 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Decided to keep shed paint request separate from CPC funding application
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed unanimously

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board voted 4-0-0 to continue the special‑permit hearing for 167‑169 Pleasant Street to May 27, 2025. It also voted 4-0-0 to continue the hearing for 17 Central Street to May 27, 2025, and then voted 4-0-0 to accept a withdrawal of the Central Street application without prejudice. The Board noted it will review comments on the 55 West Union 40B housing project at a future meeting and adjourned.

• Continue Pleasant Street special‑permit hearing to May 27 (4-0-0)
• Continue Central Street variance hearing to May 27 (4-0-0)
• Accept withdrawal of Central Street application without prejudice (4-0-0)
• Accept March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Accept April 8, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting (4-0-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee approved the minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting. The members agreed to publicly celebrate Stones for agreeing to participate in the business recycling pilot. No other formal actions or votes were recorded during the meeting.

• Approved minutes from 4/1/25
• Agreed to celebrate Stones for joining recycling pilot

Roadway Traffic Safety Committee

The Roadway Traffic Safety Committee held its April 29, 2025 meeting and discussed a beautification project for traffic control boxes and a possible traffic study for Cedar and Eliot Streets. No approvals, denials, or tabled items were recorded. The meeting was adjourned by a 7‑0 vote.

• Adjourned meeting (vote 7-0)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the draft minutes from April 16, 2025. It adopted Article 2, increasing the stabilization fund transfer to $2.3 million, and adopted Article 4, the annual town budget. The committee also recommended that the Select Board be authorized to purchase or take land for the Upper Charles Trail, limited to grant funding. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved April 16, 2025 draft minutes (4‑0)
• Approved Article 2 – Stabilization Fund Transfer increase to $2.3 M (5‑0)
• Approved Article 4 – Annual Town Budget (5‑0)
• Recommended Article 16 – Authorize Select Board to acquire land for Upper Charles Trail, not exceeding grant funds (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission voted unanimously to continue several pending hearings to May 12, 2025 at 7:05 p.m., including those for 72 Thomas Street, 12 Oak Tree Lane, 90 Waverly Street, and 240‑260 Pleasant Street. It also unanimously closed the hearing on the tree‑removal request at 369 Union Street. The Commission then issued a Negative 2 Determination of Applicability for the tree removals at 369 Union Street. All votes were 6‑0‑0.

• Continue hearing for 72 Thomas Street to May 12, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Close hearing for 369 Union Street request (6-0-0)
• Issue Negative 2 Determination of Applicability for tree removals at 369 Union Street (6-0-0)
• Continue hearing for 12 Oak Tree Lane to May 12, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continue hearing for 90 Waverly Street to May 12, 2025 (6-0-0)
• Continue hearing for 240-260 Pleasant Street to May 12, 2025 (6-0-0)

Planning Board

The board approved an amendment to the 501 Pond Street special permit to allow a transfer of ownership and to increase the affordable‑housing percentage, subject to Town Counsel review. It also approved sending amendments to the ADU (Section 7.6), Floodplain Overlay (Section 8.1), and Site Plan Review procedures (Section 9.4.5.3) to the Town Meeting for consideration. Additionally, the hearing on the 240‑260 Pleasant Street project was continued to May 8. All motions were adopted unanimously.

• Approved 501 Pond Street special permit amendment (transfer & affordability) – vote 3-0-0
• Approved ADU bylaw amendment (Section 7.6) to go to Town Meeting – vote 4-0-0
• Approved Floodplain Overlay amendment (Section 8.1) to go to Town Meeting – vote 4-0-0
• Approved Site Plan Review procedures amendment (Section 9.4.5.3) – vote 4-0-0
• Approved continuance of hearing on 240‑260 Pleasant Street to May 8 – vote 4-0-0

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board closed the public hearing for 128 Olive Street and approved the special permit decision with a 3‑0 vote. The decision was signed at the end of the meeting. The board also continued the 10‑60 Main Street hearing and the 61 Waverly Street comprehensive permit hearing to May 13, each with a 4‑0 vote, and approved the March 25 meeting minutes (4‑0).

• Continuance of 10-60 Main Street hearing to May 13, 2025 (4-0-0)
• Closed 128 Olive Street hearing and entered deliberation (4-0-0)
• Approved decision granting special permit for 128 Olive Street (3-0-0)
• Continuance of 61 Waverly Street comprehensive permit hearing to May 13, 2025 (4-0-0)
• Approved March 25, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-0)

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting. It also approved the subcommittee’s April 7, 2025 meeting minutes. Members agreed to hold two additional meetings with JM Goldson to continue work on the comprehensive‑plan strategy list, with Goldson tasked to narrow the list.

• Approved March 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April 7, 2025 subcommittee meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to schedule two additional meetings with JM Goldson
• Assigned JM Goldson to narrow down the strategy list
• Decided committee members will do additional homework

Historical Commission

The Ashland Historical Commission held a hybrid public forum on April 17, 2025, presented information about a proposed Local Historic District, and answered community questions. After discussion, a motion to end the meeting was made, seconded, and approved unanimously. No other actions were decided.

• Motion to adjourn meeting – approved unanimously

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from February 26, 2025 and entered an executive session. After returning from the session, the board approved a transfer of $150,000 from the overlay account to the overlay surplus account. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approve minutes of February 26, 2025 (3-0)
• Enter executive session (3-0)
• Approve minutes of executive session (3-0)
• Return from executive session (3-0)
• Transfer $150,000 from overlay account to overlay surplus account (3-0)
• Adjourn meeting (3-0)

Select Board

The board approved the Fiscal Year 2026 General Fund budget totaling $83,822,573.89. It also approved using the general stabilization fund for transfers and a policy review for ARPA‑funded free cash. Several licensing motions were voted on, including reopening and closing a New Beginning Auto Services hearing and granting a Class II license to G.O.A.T. Auto Group with conditions.

• Reopened continued hearing for New Beginning Auto Services Class II license (5-0-0)
• Closed New Beginning Auto Services hearing and instructed applicant to reapply (5-0-0)
• Suspended G.O.A.T. Auto Group Class II hearing pending discussion (4-0-0)
• Approved G.O.A.T. Auto Group Class II license with required site improvements (5-0-0)
• Allowed use of general stabilization fund transfers despite policy mismatch (5-0-0)
• Approved review of free‑cash policy to prioritize ARPA funds (5-0-0)
• Approved FY26 General Fund budget of $83,822,573.89 (5-0-0)
• Clock Tower Pickleball one‑day liquor license application withdrawn (no vote)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the April 9, 2025 draft minutes by a 6‑0 vote. It then voted 6‑0 to recommend Article 2, a $1.3 million transfer from the General Fund Stabilization account to the General Fund. The meeting was adjourned with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved April 9, 2025 draft minutes (6-0)
• Recommended Article 2 stabilization fund transfer $1.3M (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Economic Development Advisory Group

The Economic Development Advisory Group approved the February 6, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It also approved a $3,121.10 sign and façade grant for Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina, also unanimously. No other actions were taken.

• Approved February 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $3,121.10 sign and façade grant for Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Ashland Board of Health unanimously approved the FY2025 year‑to‑date budget reports and the April 1, 2025 meeting minutes (vote 3‑0‑0). The Board also presented the Mary Mortensen Public Health Award to the Ashland Emergency Fund. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved FY2025 YTD Budget Reports (3-0-0)
• Approved April 1, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0-0)
• Presented Mary Mortensen Public Health Award to Ashland Emergency Fund (no vote)
• Motion to adjourn approved (3-0-0)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the March 13, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; members discussed upcoming events and projects. The next meeting was scheduled for May 15, 2025 at 7:30 PM. The meeting adjourned at 8:31 PM.

• Accepted March 13, 2025 minutes (4‑aye unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for May 15, 2025 at 7:30 PM
• Adjourned meeting (4‑aye unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission closed the hearing on the Notice of Intent for 83 Concord Street and then issued an Order of Conditions for that project, both by unanimous vote. The Commission also voted to continue hearings on several other Notices of Intent and a stormwater permit to future dates. Finally, the Emergency Certification for hazard tree removal at 14 Ivy Lane was ratified.

• Closed hearing for 83 Concord Street Notice of Intent (5-0-0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for 83 Concord Street (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 66 West Union Street to May 12, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 12 Oak Tree Lane to April 28, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 90 Waverly Street to April 28, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 71 Spring Street to May 12, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 240-260 Pleasant Street to April 28, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Ratified Emergency Certification for 14 Ivy Lane tree removal (5-0-0)

Planning Board

The Board voted 4‑0‑0 to postpone the Design Plan Review and Site Alteration Permit hearing for 240‑260 Pleasant Street to April 24. It also approved a letter authorizing Eversource’s scenic‑road work on Howe Street (4‑0‑0) and approved a tenant directory sign at 90‑100 Chestnut Street (3‑0‑1). The March 27, 2025 minutes were adopted (3‑0‑1) and the meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM.

• Postponed 240‑260 Pleasant Street Design Plan Review and Site Alteration Permit hearing to April 24 (vote 4‑0‑0)
• Approved Eversource scenic‑road permit letter for Howe Street (vote 4‑0‑0)
• Approved tenant directory sign at 90‑100 Chestnut Street (vote 3‑0‑1, one abstention)
• Adopted March 27, 2025 minutes with changes (vote 3‑0‑1, one abstention)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:40 PM (vote 4‑0‑0)

Town Forest Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting. It approved two expense invoices: $318.00 to Ashland Lumber for a new kiosk and $48.32 for the Oak St kiosk and UCC‑R trail chain. The committee voted 4‑0‑0 to make Mary a full member pending a resignation. The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 pm.

• Approved minutes of March 12, 2025 meeting
• Approved $318.00 invoice from Ashland Lumber for new kiosk
• Approved $48.32 invoice for Oak St kiosk & UCC‑R trail chain
• Approved Mary as full member (vote 4-0-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved two sets of draft minutes and unanimously adopted recommendations on several fund transfers, capital projects, and CPA fund allocations. All motions passed with a 6‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved draft minutes from Oct 22, 2024 (6‑0)
• Approved draft minutes from Nov 4, 2024 (6‑0)
• Approved recommendation to transfer $375,000 to the OPEB Trust (6‑0)
• Approved recommendation to transfer $300,000 from the Special Education Stabilization Fund to the General Fund (6‑0)
• Approved recommendation to appropriate CPA funds for the Ashland Arboretum project (6‑0)
• Approved recommendation to appropriate CPA funds for additional Dog Park improvements (6‑0)
• Approved recommendation to authorize a $4 million water treatment capital project (6‑0)
• Approved recommendation to authorize borrowing $2.5 million for water main replacement (6‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously (5‑0‑0) to continue the special permit hearing for 128 Olive Street to the next meeting on April 22, with voting members Trefethen, Forestal, and May. The Board also scheduled a continuance of the comprehensive permit hearing for 10‑60 Main Street, focusing on engineering issues, for the April 22 meeting. Members agreed to add an extra ZBA meeting on May 6, 2025, and then adjourned the session.

• Continue 128 Olive St special permit hearing to April 22 (vote 5‑0‑0)
• Continue 10‑60 Main St comprehensive permit hearing to April 22 (no vote recorded)
• Add extra ZBA meeting on May 6 2025 (board agreed)
• Adjourn meeting (vote 5‑0‑0)

Open Space & Recreation Committee

The Open Space & Recreation Committee approved the minutes from February 20 and March 11, 2025. It voted 5‑0‑0 to endorse warrant Article 7 for CPC funding of the Ashland Arboretum and Article 9 for additional CPC funding of the Dog Park. The committee also reaffirmed its prior endorsement of establishing a local historic district (Article 15).

• Approved February 20, 2025 minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved March 11, 2025 minutes (5-0-0)
• Endorsed Article 7 – CPC funding for Ashland Arboretum (5-0-0)
• Endorsed Article 9 – CPC funding for Dog Park (5-0-0)
• Reaffirmed endorsement of establishing a local historic district (Article 15)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Sub‑Committee approved the draft minutes from the March 21, 2025 meeting. It agreed to recommend a second‑round Sub‑Committee to review consultant maps and data for sidewalks, connectivity paths, and beautification areas. The members also noted that each strategy should include specific details.

• Approved March 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Recommended a second‑round Sub‑Committee to review maps/data for sidewalks, connectivity paths and beautification
• Stated that each strategy should have specific details

Select Board

The Select Board voted 5‑0 to direct the Town Manager to draft a letter to MassHousing, the Governor, the Senate President and the House Leader regarding the change of developer for 61 Waverly Street. The Board also approved the consent agenda (minus Item B) by a 5‑0 vote, which accepted the March 19 minutes, appointed two staff members, granted several one‑day liquor licenses, authorized a temporary Cherry Street closure, and extended TJ’s outdoor liquor license for Boston Marathon Day.

• Approved motion to have Town Manager draft letter to MassHousing and state officials (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda except Item B (5-0)
• Accepted Regular Session Minutes from March 19 2025
• Approved appointment of Marlene Tosches as Program Manager/Rubbish and Recycling Coordinator (waiving 15‑day period)
• Approved appointment of Rachel Peck as Administrative Assistant for Recreation Department (waiving 15‑day period)
• Approved one‑day licenses for Wine Empire LLC for multiple 2025 events
• Approved temporary closure of Cherry Street one‑way section on May 10 2024
• Approved extension of TJ’s Fine Food and Spirits outdoor liquor license for Boston Marathon Day

Board of Health

The Board voted 4-0-0 to approve the nomination of Dona Walsh and Justine Grassey as Inspectors of Animals. It also approved the consent agenda, which included the FY2025 YTD budget reports and the March 4, 2025 meeting minutes, by a 4-0-0 vote. The Mary Mortensen Public Health Award presentation was postponed to the April 15 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 6:36 PM after a unanimous motion.

• Approved nomination of Dona Walsh and Justine Grassey as Animal Inspectors (4-0-0)
• Approved FY2025 YTD Budget Reports and March 4, 2025 minutes (Consent Agenda) (4-0-0)
• Postponed Mary Mortensen Public Health Award presentation to April 15, 2025
• Adjourned meeting (4-0-0)

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Subcommittee discussed draft strategies but did not finish reviewing them. Members agreed to schedule another meeting to complete the review. Anna Tesmenitsky will email possible dates, with a deadline to return comments to consultant JM Goldson by April 10. No formal decisions were made.

Planning Board

The board approved Eversource’s request for a scenic‑road permit on Howe Street with conditions for notice and pruning specifications (3‑0‑0). It also moved draft amendments to the Floodplain Overlay District, Accessory Dwelling Unit regulations, and the site‑plan review process to the next step for inclusion on the warrant (each 3‑0‑0). The Asher Development’s sign proposal was approved pending Building Commissioner approval (2‑0‑1). The board signed the ANR for 11 Frankland Road, accepted the March 13 minutes, and adjourned.

• Approved Eversource scenic‑road permit on Howe Street with notice and pruning conditions (3‑0‑0)
• Moved Floodplain Overlay District draft changes to warrant step (3‑0‑0)
• Advanced ADU draft regulations to warrant step (3‑0‑0)
• Accepted modification of Site Plan Review procedures (30‑day to 65‑day) for warrant step (3‑0‑0)
• Approved Asher Development sign proposal, contingent on Building Commissioner approval (2‑0‑1)
• Signed ANR plan for 11 Frankland Road (no vote recorded)
• Accepted minutes from March 13, 2025 meeting (3‑0‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (3‑0‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashland Zoning Board of Appeals voted 4‑0‑0 to approve Hancock Associates as the civil/environmental peer‑review consultant. It also approved MDM Transportation Consultants for traffic review and Haley Ward for water/sewer review, each by a 4‑0‑0 vote. The board then voted 4‑0‑0 to continue the public hearing to April 22.

• Approved civil/environmental peer‑review consultant Hancock Associates (4-0-0)
• Approved traffic peer‑review consultant MDM Transportation Consultants (4-0-0)
• Approved water/sewer peer‑review consultant Haley Ward (4-0-0)
• Continued public hearing to April 22 (4-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ashland Conservation Commission posted its May 12, 2025 agenda, listing several hearing requests, certificate and modification requests, and discussion items. No approvals, denials, or votes were recorded in the minutes.

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee unanimously approved the October 2024 meeting minutes. It decided to create a subcommittee to refine the strategy list and named Anna Tesmenitsky, Kate Jurczyk, Chuck Lidz and Jake Coolberth as members. The committee assigned Ms. Ghosh to post subcommittee meetings with the Town Clerk’s Office and Ms. Goldson to send the updated strategy list to the subcommittee.

• Approved October 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Formed subcommittee to review strategies
• Subcommittee members: Anna Tesmenitsky, Kate Jurczyk, Chuck Lidz, Jake Coolberth
• Ms. Ghosh will post subcommittee meetings with Town Clerk’s Office
• Ms. Goldson will send updated strategy list to subcommittee members

Select Board

The board voted to accept the Town Counsel's response to the Open Meeting Law complaint (4-0-1). It also approved the Town election voting times and locations (5-0). The consent agenda, minus one executive‑session minute item, was approved (5-0-0). The meeting was then adjourned (5-0-0).

• Accepted Open Meeting Law response (4-0-1)
• Approved election voting times and locations (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda minus Jan 17 2024 minutes (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)