Auburn public meetings in 2023

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Auburn Solid Waste Advisory Committee will meet to discuss updates to solid waste rules and requirements. The meeting is scheduled as a hybrid public session.

• Review and update of solid waste rules and requirements

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Auburn Solid Waste Advisory Committee will meet to review and update existing solid waste rules and requirements. The meeting is scheduled as a hybrid public session.

• Review and update of solid waste rules and requirements

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Auburn Solid Waste Advisory Committee will meet to review and update existing solid waste rules and requirements. No other specific items or motions are listed on the agenda.

• Review and update of solid waste rules and requirements

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council will continue its review of the FY24 Panel Book. The meeting also includes financial updates and a call for new council members.

• Approval of November 29th minutes
• FY24 Panel Book Review (continued)
• Financial Updates
• Call for New Council Members

Pakachoag Golf Course Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to review end-of-year financials and determine rates for 2024. Members will also discuss golf course improvements, survey results, and rules and etiquette.

• 2024 Rates
• End of Year Financials
• Golf Course Improvements
• Survey Results
• High School Golf Teams

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and check registers. The board will also consider the appointment of a Grievance Person and the adoption of an Affirmative Action Goal Plan.

• Vote to approve October 2023 Check Registers
• Vote to approve Ginger Buteau as Grievance Person
• Vote to approve the Affirmative Action Goal Plan

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings regarding residential development at 25 Vinal St and a walking path at 735 Southbridge St. Additionally, the board will review applicability for highway resurfacing projects on I-395 and I-90.

• Determination of Applicability: 20 duplexes at 25 Vinal St
• Determination of Applicability: Mill and resurface highways at I-395 and I-290
• Notice of Intent: Walking path between Auburn Public Library and Goddard Park at 735 Southbridge St
• Determination of Applicability: Highway resurfacing project on Interstate I-90
• Certificates of Compliance for 476 Leicester St., 12 Pearl St., and 9 St Mark St.

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding several development and infrastructure projects. The agenda includes determinations of applicability for residential and highway work, as well as a notice of intent for dealership parking improvements.

• Timothy Johnson: Determination of Applicability to build 20 duplexes at 25 Vinal St
• Epsilon Associates: Determination of Applicability to mill and resurface highways at I-395 and I-290
• Crocker Design Group: Notice of Intent to expand and reconfigure parking and driveway facilities at 735 Southbridge St
• Massachusetts Department of Transportation: Determination of Applicability for highway resurfacing on Interstate I-90

School Committee

The School Committee will review the FY25 draft budget and a field trip policy. The agenda includes discussions on body worn cameras, preschool tuition, and an update on the Auburn Fire Department building.

• FY 25 Draft Budget
• Body Worn Cameras
• Preschool Tuition
• Field Trip Policy (Update Policy JJH & JJH-R)
• FY24 School Department Grant Awards

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and vote on transfer requests across multiple town departments. The body will also discuss and vote on a proposal to allow the Town Accountant/CFO to approve transfers up to $250.00.

• Transfer requests for 13 departments including Police, Fire/Rescue, and DPW
• Proposal to allow Town Accountant/CFO to approve transfers up to $250.00
• Vote on Amendment to Free Cash Policy

Board of Health

The Board of Health will conduct a public hearing regarding whether 3 Washington Street, Unit #67 is unfit for human habitation. The meeting also includes updates on solid waste initiatives, flu season, and communicable disease cases.

• Public hearing: Unfit for Human Habitation at 3 Washington Street, Unit #67
• Solid Waste Action Plan (SWAP) update
• Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) program with NEDT
• Holiday Tree and String Light Recycling Program
• Review of open communicable disease cases

Planning Board

The Planning Board will make decisions regarding projects at 404 Washington Street, 15 Hardscrabble Road, 25 Southbridge Street, and 319 Washington Street. The board will also discuss a bond reduction for Whitetail Run and a parking lot modification at 73 Jerome Ave.

• Decision: 404 Washington Street – SWIF II Datacom Investment
• Decision: 15 Hardscrabble Road – Casella
• Decision: 25 Southbridge Street – Herbert Campbell
• Decision: 319 Washington Street – Kimley – Horn Assoc.
• Modification: 73 Jerome Ave – Daycare Parking Lot

Select Board

The Select Board will vote to set a Special Town Meeting for January 30, 2024, and open the meeting's warrant. The board is also considering license renewals and public hearings regarding National Grid utility work.

• Vote to set Special Town Meeting for January 30, 2024
• Public hearings for National Grid pole location and conduit installation on Albert Street (Ext)
• Vote to apply for and accept FFY2023 EMPG Grant of $4,600.00
• 2024 Annual License Renewals for alcohol, auto repair, and common victualer licenses
• Change in ownership for Dunkin' locations at 717 Southbridge Street, 895 Southbridge Street, and 310 Washington Street to Central Mass Donuts LLC

Select Board

The Select Board will vote to set a Special Town Meeting for January 30, 2024, and open the associated warrant. The board is also reviewing 2024 annual license renewals and hearing petitions from National Grid regarding Albert Street.

• Vote to set Special Town Meeting for Tuesday, January 30, 2024
• Vote to apply for and accept FFY2023 EMPG Grant of $4,600.00
• Public hearings for National Grid pole and conduit installation on Albert Street (Ext)
• Review of 2024 Annual License Renewals for alcohol, auto repair, and common victualer licenses
• Vote on ownership change for Dunkin’ locations at 717 Southbridge St, 895 Southbridge St, and 310 Washington St to Central Mass Donuts LLC

Naming Committee

The Naming Committee is meeting to discuss specific names for rooms. The committee may vote on a recommendation to be sent to the Select Board.

• Discussion of Dr. Arthur and Dr. Martha Pappas Room
• Discussion of The Trustees Room
• Discussion of The Artemas Ward Room
• Potential vote of recommendation to the Select Board

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Auburn Solid Waste Advisory Committee will meet to review and update existing solid waste rules and requirements. The meeting is scheduled as a hybrid public session.

• Review and update of solid waste rules and requirements

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The Zoning Bylaw Review Committee is meeting to discuss zoning matters. The agenda includes items regarding the MBTA Community, the Regional Mall District, and accessory apartments.

• MBTA Community discussion
• Regional Mall District discussion
• Accessory Apartments discussion

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will discuss sewer use abatement applications for two properties and review the permit fee schedule. The meeting includes updates on the Upper Blackstone Clean Water project and several capital planning projects.

• Sewer Use Abatement Applications for 30 Bridle Path and 1 Gwen Drive
• Review of Permit Fee Schedule
• Sewer System Evaluation Study for I&I Sewer Rehabilitation
• Capital project updates for Pinrock Pump Station Bypass Forcemain and Warren Road Pump Station Replacement
• VFD Replacements at Holstrom and Sword Street Pump Stations

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will discuss sewer use abatement applications for three specific addresses and review the permit fee schedule. The board will also receive updates on capital projects and the Upper Blackstone Clean Water project.

• Sewer Use Abatement Applications for 30 Bridle Path, 1 Gwen Drive, and 31 Briarcliff Drive
• Review of Permit Fee Schedule
• Updates on Pinrock Pump Station Bypass Forcemain and Warren Road Pump Station Replacement
• VFD Replacements at Holstrom and Sword Street Pump Stations
• Discussion on Sewer Billing Rate Structure and I&I Fees

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to discuss and vote on the 2024 budget. The board will also consider a vote to approve the 2023 bad debt.

• Vote to approve the 2024 Budget
• Vote to approve the Bad Debt 2023

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss draft budget presentations for fiscal year 2025. The meeting includes a second reading for updates to Policy JJH and JJH-R, as well as a year-to-date budget report.

• FY 25 Draft Budget Presentations
• Second Reading - Update Policy JJH & JJH-R
• Year to Date Budget Report
• Budget Transfers

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council will continue its review of the FY24 Panel Book. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and a review of financial updates.

• Approval of November 16th minutes
• FY24 Panel Book Review (continued)
• Financial Updates

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct public hearings regarding National Grid's requests for pole location and conduit installation on Albert Street (Ext). The board will also consider license name changes for automotive dealerships and a resolution for paint stewardship legislation.

• Public Hearing: National Grid petition for pole location on Albert Street (Ext)
• Public Hearing: National Grid petition for conduit installation on Albert Street (Ext)
• Name changes for automotive licenses at 189 Washington Street and 519 Washington Street
• Address change for flammable storage license from 190 Washington Street to 2 Commerce Way
• Resolution in support of pending Paint Stewardship Legislation

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct public hearings regarding National Grid's requests for pole location and conduit installation on Albert Street (Ext). The board will also consider license name changes for Patrick Motor Group, LLC and a resolution supporting Paint Stewardship Legislation.

• Public hearing: National Grid petition for pole location on Albert Street (Ext)
• Public hearing: National Grid petition for conduit installation on Albert Street (Ext)
• Request to adopt resolution in support of Paint Stewardship Legislation
• Name changes for automotive dealership licenses at 189 and 519 Washington Street
• Address change for flammable storage license from 190 Washington Street to 2 Commerce Way

Naming Committee

The Naming Committee will review three submitted names for the Public Library's sunroom addition. The committee will also determine the process for submitting a recommendation to the Select Board.

• Review of 3 names submitted for Public Library sunroom addition
• Determination of recommendation process for the Select Board

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The meeting includes chairperson's comments, an administrator's report, and a period for business from the public.

Auburn Cultural Council

The committee will approve November minutes, review financial updates and the FY24 panel book, with other business to follow.

• Approve November 2nd meeting minutes
• FY24 Panel Book Review (continued)
• Financial Updates

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss budget updates and budget transfers. The body will also conduct a third reading for several policy updates and discuss field trip policies.

• Third reading of policy updates: DA, DB, DBD, DBG, DD, DIE, DI, DJ, DJA, DJE
• Discussion of Field Trip Policy
• Year to Date Budget Report and Budget Transfers
• Announcement of Chamber of Commerce Mini Grant Winners

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will conduct a kickoff meeting for the FY2025 budget with department and division heads. The committee will also review and potentially vote on transfer requests from multiple town departments.

• FY2025 Budget Kickoff Meeting
• Potential vote on transfer requests for Finance Department
• Potential vote on transfer requests for Department of Public Works
• Potential vote on transfer requests for Police and Fire/Rescue Departments
• Potential vote on transfer requests for Information Technology and Law Department

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to begin the FY2025 budget process with department and division heads. The committee will also review and vote on potential transfer requests across multiple town departments.

• FY2025 Budget Kickoff Meeting
• Review and vote on transfer requests for Finance Department
• Review and vote on transfer requests for Department of Public Works
• Review and vote on transfer requests for Fire/Rescue and Police departments
• Review and vote on transfer requests for Law, IT, and Human Resources

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will meet to receive reports on business development and grants. The body will also discuss website updates and review tax classification results.

• Economic Development Coordinator report on business and grants
• Discussion regarding website updates
• Town update on tax classification results

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Planning Board will hold public hearings to consider a special permit for a wireless service facility and a site plan approval for a waste facility expansion. Residents can participate in person at Town Hall or remotely.

• Special Permit request by SWIF II Datacom Investment Co. Towers LLC for a Personal Wireless Service Facility at 404 Washington Street
• Site Plan Approval request by Casella Waste Systems for a storage area addition at 15 Hardscrabble Road

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings for a wireless service facility and three site plan approvals. The board will also discuss a subdivision and a modification to a drive.

• Special Permit for Personal Wireless Service Facility at 404 Washington Street
• Site Plan Approval for storage area addition at 15 Hardscrabble Road
• Site Plan Approval for motor vehicle sales at 25 Southbridge Street
• Site Plan Approval for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Discussion regarding 71 Curtis Street subdivision

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing to vote on tax classification factors and exemptions. The board will also consider votes regarding equipment financing and a bond anticipation note.

• Public hearing on Residential Factor, Open Space Discount, Residential Exemption, and Small Commercial Exemption
• Vote on 10-year maximum useful life for $150,000 Ipad Initiative borrowing
• Vote to approve sale of $1,656,000 Bond Anticipation Note dated November 28, 2023
• Notice of Solid Waste and Recycling fee change
• Gift acceptances for the Fire/Rescue Department

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct a public hearing regarding tax classification factors and exemptions. The board will also vote on financing for an iPad initiative and the sale of a Bond Anticipation Note.

• Public hearing on Residential Factor, Open Space Discount, Residential Exemption, and Small Commercial Exemption
• Vote on 10-year maximum useful life for $150,000 iPad Initiative borrowing
• Vote to approve sale of $1,656,000 Bond Anticipation Note to Piper Sandler & Co at $1,658,649.60
• Notice of Solid Waste and Recycling fee change
• Solid Waste Action Plan (SWAP) Incentive discussion

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The committee is meeting to review zoning bylaws, including items for the Spring 2024 Town Meeting. Discussions will focus on accessory apartments and the Regional Mall District.

• Spring 2024 Town Meeting preparations
• Accessory Apartments
• Regional Mall District

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The committee will meet to discuss a solid waste reduction initiative. The agenda also includes discussions regarding solid waste fees and the pricing of overflow bags.

• Solid waste reduction initiative
• Solid waste fees
• Overflow bag pricing

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding two property projects. The body will also consider certificates of compliance for two additional addresses.

• Public hearing for septic system repair at 729 Oxford St. South
• Public hearing for a walking path between Auburn Public Library and Goddard Park at 369 Southbridge St.
• Certificate of Compliance for 23 Brook St.
• Certificate of Compliance for 476 Leicester St.

Energy Committee

The Energy Committee will meet to receive reports on the municipal aggregation contract and electric vehicle initiatives. The body will also discuss the Green Communities Grant regarding Bryn Mawr heat pumps.

• Municipal Aggregation Contract for Nov ‘23-Nov ‘25
• EV Charging Station update
• Electric Fleet Vehicle (Chevy Bolt) update
• Green Communities Grant for Bryn Mawr Heat Pumps
• NMCA Update

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The committee will review previous minutes and discuss upcoming programs for 2024. Topics of discussion include RDP Grant funds, solid waste fees, and yard waste collection.

• Review and approval of October 6, 2022, minutes
• Discussion of HHWD 2024
• RDP Grant funds
• Solid waste fees
• Yard waste collection

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council will meet via remote participation to approve September minutes and receive financial updates. The council also plans to meet MCC representatives and review amendment forms.

• Approval of September minutes
• Financial updates
• Review/approval of Amendment forms
• Discussion regarding FY24 Panel Book

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review minutes and receive a Director's report. The meeting includes a discussion led by Steve regarding methods for gathering input from library patrons.

• Review of October 4, 2023 minutes
• Discussion on community outreach methods to gather patron input
• Review of APL expenditures

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to review a budget update and conduct second readings on several district policies. The body will also discuss health and wellness, educator evaluations, and a high school field trip to Quebec City.

• Budget update
• Second reading of policies DA, DB, DBD, DBG, DD, DIE, DI, DJ, DJA, and DJE
• Comprehensive Health and Physical Education Framework
• AHS Quebec City Field Trip
• Educator Evaluation

Auburn Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee is meeting to review materials related to governance and charter issues.

• Review of materials for Governance/Charter Issues

Bryn Mawr Elementary School's School Council

The School Council will meet to approve previous minutes and receive updates on school happenings. The agenda consists of procedural updates and member discussion.

• Approval of 10/4/23 minutes

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Auburn Select Board and Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees are holding a joint meeting to interview candidates for appointment to the Library Board of Trustees. A vote for appointment may occur during the meeting if quorum requirements are met.

• Interviews for appointment to the Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees
• Possible vote for appointment to the Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Auburn Select Board and Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees are holding a joint meeting to interview candidates for appointment to the Board of Trustees. A vote for appointment may occur during the meeting if quorum requirements are met.

• Interviews of candidates Lindsay Baker and Anne Elsaid

Select Board

The Select Board is holding a joint meeting with the Auburn Board of Library Trustees. The body will interview candidates for a vacancy on the Board of Trustees and may vote to appoint a candidate to serve until the May 21, 2024 Annual Town Election.

• Interviews of candidates Lindsay Baker and Anne Elsaid
• Potential vote to fill a vacancy on the Board of Library Trustees

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a joint meeting with the Board of Library Trustees to interview and potentially appoint a candidate to fill a vacancy. The board will also consider a vehicle exchange between Auburn and the Town of Rutland.

• Interview and potential appointment of Lindsay Baker or Anne El Said to the Board of Library Trustees
• Consideration of exchanging a Fire-an Ambulance for a Forestry Truck with the Town of Rutland
• Discussion of Board Budget Priorities for FY2025
• Executive session to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property
• Gift acceptances for the Fire/Rescue Department

Energy Committee

The Energy Committee will meet to receive reports from the Energy Manager and discuss committee member items. The agenda includes updates on municipal energy contracts and electric vehicle initiatives.

• Municipal Aggregation Contract Nov ‘23-Nov ‘25
• EV Charging Station update
• Electric Fleet Vehicle – Chevy Bolt
• Green Communities Grant for Bryn Mawr Heat Pumps
• NMCA Update

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The WRTA Advisory Board will meet via webinar to hear reports and public comments. The agenda consists of procedural items and general updates.

• Administrator’s Report
• Business from the public

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission is holding a public hearing to determine the applicability of wetland bylaws for a specific property. The body will review a request to perform a septic system repair.

• Determination of Applicability for septic system repair at 729 Oxford St. South (Map 74 Parcel 14)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is meeting to conduct public hearings on several Notices of Intent and a Determination of Applicability. The body will review requests for water service, storage construction, septic repair, and a public walking path.

• Notice of Intent for water service pipe installation at 7 Marion Ave
• Notice of Intent for a 47-feet by 64-feet covered storage area at 15 Hardscrabble Rd
• Determination of Applicability for septic system repair at 729 Oxford St. South
• Notice of Intent for a walking path between Auburn Public Library and Goddard Park at 369 Southbridge St
• Certificate of Compliance for 23 Brook St

Select Board

The Select Board will consider the 2023 Capital Fund Program for the Auburn Housing Authority and the annual schedule of fees and fines. The board will also discuss FY2025 budget priorities and a grant application for Green Communities.

• Vote on 2023 Capital Fund Program for Auburn Housing Authority HUD Formula Grant
• Annual votes on Schedule of Fees and Schedule of Fines
• Vote to set Tax Classification Hearing
• Vote to authorize Town Manager to apply for FY2024 Green Communities Grant
• Update on Library Trustee vacancy interviews for Lindsay Baker and Anne Elsa

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will discuss abatement applications for 25 specific addresses for Fiscal Year 2023. The board will also review budget reports, billing schedules, and updates on several capital projects.

• FY2023 Sewer Use Abatement Applications for 25 properties
• Pinrock Pump Station Bypass Forcemain update
• Warren Road Pump Station Replacement update
• VFD Replacements at Holstrom and Sword Street Pump Stations
• Sewer billing rate structure and regulation changes

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will discuss abatement applications for 26 specific addresses for Fiscal Year 2023. The meeting also includes updates on capital projects and reviews of billing schedules and budget reports.

• Fiscal Year 2023 Sewer Use Abatement Applications for 26 properties
• Pinrock Pump Station Bypass Forcemain update
• Warren Road Pump Station Replacement update
• VFD Replacements at Holstrom and Sword Street Pump Stations
• SCADA Upgrade update

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The Zoning Bylaw Review Committee is meeting to review specific zoning matters. The agenda includes discussions on the Regional Mall District and a Do Not Solicit Registry.

• Discussion of SPA v. SP
• Review of Regional Mall District
• Discussion of Do Not Solicit Registry

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to review a Notice of Intent. The body will consider a request to install a covered storage area at a specific property.

• Notice of Intent for 15 Hardscrabble Rd. to install a 47-feet by 64-feet covered storage area

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding two Notices of Intent. The body will also review several Certificates of Compliance and a Determination of Applicability for various properties.

• Notice of Intent for new water service pipe at 7 Marion Ave
• Notice of Intent for a 47-feet by 64-feet covered storage area at 15 Hardscrabble Rd
• Determination of Applicability for 25 Shore Drive
• Certificates of Compliance for 65 Chestnut Avenue, 54 Prospect St., 410/411 Leicester St., and 23 Brook St.

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Planning Board will hold a public hearing to consider a site plan application. The applicant is seeking approval for motor vehicle sales at a specific property.

• Site Plan Approval request for motor vehicle sales at 25 Southbridge Street (Map 6 Parcel 153)

Select Board

The Select Board will review the Town Manager's budget summary and vote on recommendations for the October 24, 2023 Special Town Meeting warrant. The board will also consider a street acceptance petition and a grant for IT services.

• Vote recommendations for the October 24, 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant
• Citizens Petition for street acceptance for Whitman Bailey Drive Street Layout
• Vote to authorize filing and acceptance of FY24 Community Compact IT Grant funds
• Open Air License for Friends of the Auburn Public Library book sale at 369 Southbridge Street
• Recommendation for Halloween Trick or Treat hours on October 31, 2023

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding site plan approvals and a road designation. The board will also discuss a subdivision and a modification to a project site.

• Site plan approval for motor vehicle sales at 25 Southbridge Street
• Petition to designate Whitman Bailey Drive as a public road
• Site plan approval for a self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Discussion regarding 71 Curtis Street subdivision
• Modification for Casella at 15 Hardscrabble Road

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will hold a public hearing and vote on the Proposed Annual Plan for FY2024. The board will also consider a Federal 5-Year Plan and a budget revision for FY2023.

• Public hearing and vote on Proposed Annual Plan FY2024
• Vote on Federal 5-Year Plan
• Vote on Budget Revision FY2023
• Vote on asphalt repair/replacement scope of services for Project#017074 at Auburn Heights 689-1
• Vote on August and September 2023 check registers

Bryn Mawr Elementary School's School Council

The Bryn Mawr School Council is meeting to introduce members and discuss the purpose and goals of the council. The agenda includes a review of the start of the school year and the School Improvement Plan.

• Introduction to School Council Members
• Discussion of School Improvement Plan
• Review of the start of the school year

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review expenditures and the Director's report. Assistant Town Manager Dori Vecchio will address questions regarding the Collective Bargaining Agreement and the process for filling vacant library positions.

• Review of APL expenditures
• Discussion on Collective Bargaining Agreement terms and professional positions
• Review of the process for filling vacant library positions
• Discussion of recommended goals for the Director

School Committee

The Auburn School Committee will review budget transfers and the Capital Improvement Plan for FY2025 and FY2029. The body will also discuss updates to multiple school policies and the Comprehensive Health and Physical Education Framework.

• FY2025 and FY2029 CIP budget reports and transfers
• Comprehensive Health and Physical Education Framework
• Updates to policies DA, DB, DBD, DBG, DD, DIE, DI, DJ, DJA, and DJE
• Presidential Election/PDD for Staff (no school for students)
• Beginning of Year Transition Surveys

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and vote on recommendations for articles appearing on the October 24, 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant. The committee will also review and vote on transfer requests for multiple town departments.

• Recommendations for October 24, 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant Articles
• Transfer requests for Fire/Rescue and Emergency Management
• Transfer requests for Police Department and Department of Public Works
• Transfer requests for Department of Public Services and Department of Development and Inspectional Services
• Transfer requests for Information Technology, Law Department, and Finance Department

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will meet to receive reports on business development and grants. The body will discuss zoning amendments for the RM District and tax classification. Other items include municipal aggregation and the Fall Town Meeting.

• Zoning Amendments for the RM District
• Tax Classification update
• Municipal Aggregation update
• Fall Town Meeting update

Board of Registrars

The Board of Registrars of Voters will meet to reorganize and discuss early voting procedures for mail and in-person elections. The board is also considering the appointment of additional election officers.

• Approval of signature stamps use
• Appointment of election officers Lucille Collins, Daniel Kwamo, and Wendy Steinhilber
• Discussion of AHS AP/Government students continuation with AHS
• Listing book distribution

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to discuss a Notice of Intent. The commission is reviewing a request to install a pipe for new water service at a specific property.

• Notice of Intent for 7 Marion Ave (Map 49 Parcel 102) to install pipe for new water service

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding the installation of gas and water pipes. The board will also review certificates of compliance for several properties.

• Public hearing: 25 Shore Drive for natural gas plastic pipe installation
• Public hearing: 7 Marion Ave for new water service pipe installation
• Certificate of Compliance review: 65 Chestnut Avenue
• Certificate of Compliance review: 54 Prospect St.
• Certificate of Compliance review: 410/411 Leicester St.

Board of Registrars

The Board of Registrars of Voters will meet to reorganize and discuss election procedures. The agenda includes reviews of early voting by mail and in-person elections, as well as the use of signature stamps.

• Approval of signature stamps use
• Discussion of early voting by mail and in-person elections
• Review of additional election officers
• Continuation of AHS AP/Government students program
• Listing book distribution

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a site plan for a self-storage facility. The board will also discuss a modification for 15 Hardscrabble Road and a decision for the Claire Drive Subdivision.

• Public hearing: Site plan approval for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Discussion: Modification for Casella at 15 Hardscrabble Road
• Decision: Claire Drive Subdivision

Select Board

The Select Board will consider the warrant for a Special Town Meeting on October 24, 2023. The board will also review a request to adjust ARPA premium pay funding and a petition for street acceptance. An executive session is scheduled to discuss litigation strategy regarding an MCAD case.

• Vote to approve October 24, 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant
• Request to reduce ARPA Premium Pay from $300,000.00 to $294,355.95
• Citizens Petition for street acceptance of Whitman Bailey Drive
• Seasonal Open Air License for 'Scarecrow Your Business' event at Goddard Park
• Drainlayer License for Albanese D & S, Inc.

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council will meet via remote participation to review August minutes and discuss social media marketing. The council also plans to review GMS, discuss MCC online training for new members, and plan for the next grant cycle.

• Approval of August minutes
• Social media marketing discussion
• Review of GMS
• MCC online training for new members
• Planning for next grant cycle

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The WRTA Advisory Board will meet via webinar to discuss board changes and receive an administrator's report. The meeting includes a designated time for business from the public.

• Chair comments on recent board changes
• Administrator's Report
• Business from the public

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to consider two special permit requests. Both applicants are seeking permits for home occupations under Section 3.9.1.2 of the Auburn Zoning Bylaw.

• Special Permit request for home occupation at 24 Eaton Ave (Kyle Robitaille)
• Special Permit request for home occupation at 29 Elbridge Road (Yibadouai Napon)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding special permits for home occupations. The board will also consider an extension request for a property on Rochdale Street.

• Special Permit request for home occupation at 24 Eaton Ave
• Special Permit request for home occupation at 29 Elbridge Road
• 24 month extension request for 430 Rochdale Street

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to reorganize its board and consider a contract amendment. The body will discuss and vote on a specific funding amendment for CFA#5001.

• Vote to approve CFA#5001 Amendment #9 for $321,471.00
• Reorganization of the Board

School Committee

The Auburn School Committee will meet to discuss new business including food service agreements and school building maintenance. The agenda also includes reports from the superintendent and student representatives.

• Food Services Director and Food Service Collaborative Agreement
• Upgrade of doors and windows at various school buildings
• Negotiations 2023-2023
• Policy Updates
• Special Education

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to reorganize and review transfer requests for multiple town departments. The body will also vote on meeting minutes.

• Vote on transfer requests for Fire/Rescue and Emergency Management
• Vote on transfer requests for Police Department and Department of Public Works
• Vote on transfer requests for Department of Public Services and Department of Development and Inspectional Services
• Vote on transfer requests for Executive Office of Town Manager, Town Clerk/Elections, and Human Resources
• Vote on transfer requests for Law Department, Finance Department, and General Services/Town Hall

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to review and vote on transfer requests for multiple town departments. The session also includes a reorganization item and the approval of minutes.

• Vote on transfer requests for Fire/Rescue and Emergency Management
• Vote on transfer requests for Department of Public Services
• Vote on transfer requests for Police Department and Department of Public Works
• Vote on transfer requests for Law and Finance Departments
• Vote on transfer requests for Information Technology and Human Resources

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will review reports on business development, grants, and the town website. The body will also discuss tax classification, municipal aggregation, and the Fall Town Meeting.

• Zoning Amendments for the RM District
• Tax Classification update
• Municipal Aggregation update
• Fall Town Meeting update

Town Meeting Members Precinct 4

The Town Meeting Member Precinct 4 will meet to conduct a single piece of business. The body is scheduled to elect one member to fill a vacancy.

• Election of 1 Town Meeting Member to fill vacancy

Parks Recreation and Cemetery

The committee will review updates regarding cemetery pricing and the schedule for interments. The meeting also includes progress reports on dog park improvements and recaps of summer community events.

• Improvements to the Dog Park
• Update to Cemetery Pricing
• Interment status for Columbus Day
• Town Wide Yard Sale
• Fall Festival

Parks Recreation and Cemetery

The committee will meet to receive updates on parks and cemetery operations. Members will discuss a recap of summer events and plan for the town-wide yard sale and fall festival.

• Recap of summer concert series, farmers and cultural markets, movie nights, and Independence Day celebration
• Discussion of town-wide yard sale
• Discussion of fall festival
• Review of recreational sports leagues and exercise classes

Town Meeting Members Precinct 1

The Town Meeting Member Precinct 1 will meet to conduct one item of business. The body is scheduled to elect one member to fill a vacancy.

• Election of 1 Town Meeting Member to fill vacancy

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to determine the applicability of wetland bylaws for a specific project. The board will review a request to install natural gas plastic pipe at a residential property.

• Determination of Applicability for 25 Shore Drive (Map 5 Parcel 23) to install natural gas plastic pipe using the open trench method

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a Determination of Applicability for a property at 25 Shore Drive. The board will also review several Certificates of Compliance for various town addresses.

• Public hearing for Steven Gigante to install natural gas plastic pipe at 25 Shore Drive
• Certificate of Compliance for 63 Chestnut Avenue
• Certificate of Compliance for 54 Prospect St.
• Review of 16 George St.
• Review of 25 Vinal St. and 282 Southbridge St.

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Planning Board will hold a public hearing to discuss a petition regarding Whitman Bailey Drive. The board is considering designating the location as a public road and maintaining it according to town standards.

• Petition to designate Whitman Bailey Drive as a public road
• Discussion of maintenance for abutting sidewalks, sewage, and utility services on Whitman Bailey Drive

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding the designation of a public road and two development projects. The board will also discuss a subdivision and issue a decision on a property at 771 Washington Street.

• Petition to designate Whitman Bailey Drive as a public road
• Site Plan Approval for a self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Definitive Subdivision Plan for a two-lot single family home development at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue
• Discussion regarding 71 Curtis Street subdivision
• Decision regarding 771 Washington Street

The Planning Board postponed a petition to make Whitman Bailey Drive a public road due to bylaw deficiencies. A site plan application for a self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street was also continued pending peer review and easement discussions.

• Continued public hearing for Whitman Bailey Drive public road petition to October 10, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 319 Washington Street self-storage facility to September 26, 2023 (5-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing for an automotive repair license and consider a citizens petition for street acceptance. The board will also vote on Finance Committee vacancies and the appointment of elections workers.

• Public hearing for Automotive Repair License: All Clear Diagnostics and Calibration LLC, 113 Washington Street
• Street Layout Hearing for Citizens Petition for Street Acceptance: Whitman Bailey Drive
• Outdoor Entertainment License for Haunted Hayride: Century Sportsman's Club, 531 Rochdale Street
• ARPA vote impact shifting $89,760 by end of October
• Vote to rescind 40 mph speed regulation on Pinehurst Avenue and return to 30 mph

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct a public hearing for an automotive repair license and vote on Finance Committee vacancies. The board will also discuss ARPA funding shifts and potential changes to speed regulations on Pinehurst Avenue.

• Public hearing for Automotive Repair License: All Clear Diagnostics and Calibration LLC, 113 Washington Street
• Outdoor Entertainment License for Haunted Hayride: Century Sportsman's Club, 531 Rochdale Street
• ARPA vote impact shifting $89,760 by end of October
• Vote to rescind 40 mph speed regulation on Pinehurst Avenue and return to 30 mph
• Street Layout Hearing for Citizens Petition for Street Acceptance: Whitman Bailey Drive

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct a public hearing for an automotive repair license and discuss various town appointments and licenses. The meeting includes updates on ARPA funding and local infrastructure projects.

• Public hearing for Automotive Repair License: All Clear Diagnostics and Calibration LLC, 113 Washington Street
• Outdoor Entertainment License for Haunted Hayride: Century Sportsman's Club, 531 Rochdale Street
• ARPA vote impact shifting $89,760 by end of October
• Vote to rescind 40 mph speed regulation on Pinehurst Avenue and return to 30 mph
• Proposed warrant article to amend General Bylaws by removing Sections 17.12, 17.13, and 17.14

The Select Board voted to rescind a 40 mph speed regulation on Pinehurst Avenue and return it to the 30 mph statutory limit. The Board also approved a motor vehicle repair license and an outdoor entertainment license. Three candidates were interviewed for Finance Committee vacancies, resulting in two appointments.

• Rescinded 40 mph speed regulation for Pinehurst Avenue and returned to 30 mph limit (4-0)
• Approved motor vehicle repair license for All Clear Diagnostics and Calibration LLC (4-0)
• Approved outdoor entertainment license for Century Sportsman’s Club Haunted Hayride (4-0)
• Appointed Stephen Consilvio to Finance Committee for term expiring June 30, 2025 (4-0)
• Appointed George R. Graham to Finance Committee for term expiring June 30, 2024 (3-1)
• Denied appointment of Marc A. Sclamo to Finance Committee (1-3)

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The Zoning Bylaw Review Committee is meeting to review the Regional Mall District and accessory apartments. The committee will also review minutes from the August 14, 2023 meeting.

• Regional Mall District
• Accessory Apartments

The committee approved several changes to the Table of Uses for the Regional Mall District, including updates for mixed-use, elderly housing, and lumber yards. The board also split the category for hospitals and nursing facilities to allow specific uses in the mall district. No changes were made to other government uses.

• Approved changing Section 3.2.2.4 (Mixed-Use) for RM from N to SP
• Approved changing Section 3.2.2.5 (Elderly Housing) for RM and DSVD from N to SP
• Approved splitting Section 3.2.3.6 to create Section 3.2.3.6.1 (Hospital) as SP for RM
• Approved changing Section 3.2.6.2 (Lumber Yard) for RM from N to SP
• Approved minutes from 8/14/23

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to reorganize its board and vote on the June and July check registers. The board will also discuss and vote on a wage match authorization.

• Reorganization of the Board
• Vote to approve June and July check registers
• Vote to approve wage match authorization

The Board approved the June and July 2023 check registers and the Wage Match Authorization. Board reorganization was postponed to a future meeting on September 21, 2023.

• Postponed Board reorganization to September 21, 2023 (3-0)
• Approved June 2023 check registers (3-0)
• Approved July 2023 check registers (3-0)
• Approved Wage Match Authorization (3-0)

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will discuss the library's Collective Bargaining Agreement and the process for setting goals for the Library Director. The board may also vote on the library's Collection Policy and its publication on the website.

• Review and possible vote on the Collection Policy
• Discussion of the APL Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Discussion of goals for the Library Director
• Possible vote to add the Collection Development Policy to the website
• Discussion on methods to engage the Auburn community

The board approved the meeting minutes from May 3 and May 31, 2023. Members established focus topics for upcoming meetings and voted unanimously to send proposed goals for the Library Director to the Town Manager. Discussions regarding the Collective Bargaining Agreement and ARIS report vacancies were tabled.

• Approved May 31, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved May 3, 2023 meeting minutes as revised
• Voted unanimously to transmit goals for the Library Director to the Town Manager
• Created sub-committee (Kirrane, Redding) for Strategic Plan reporting template
• Created sub-committee (Toth, Kirrane, Briesacher) to examine the library Charter
• Tabled discussion of APL Collective Bargaining Agreement until October 3
• Tabled discussion on ARIS report comparative data and staff vacancies

School Committee

The School Committee will review the 2023-2024 school year opening and the budget timeline. The body will also discuss budget transfers and warrant articles for the Fall Special Town Meeting.

• Budget transfers
• School Department Warrant Articles for Fall Special Town Meeting
• Strategic Plan Update
• Enrollment update and registration of new students
• Satellite and Galaxy enrollment

The School Committee unanimously approved a list of budget transfers dated August 28, 2023, and the School Department Warrant Articles for the October 24, 2023 Fall Town Meeting. The committee also reviewed enrollment data and the FY25 budget development timeline.

• Approved budget transfers dated August 28, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved School Department Warrant Articles for October 24, 2023 Fall Town Meeting (Unanimous)

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council is meeting to discuss the next steps for the upcoming grant cycle and review a community survey for Auburn residents. The agenda also includes updates on financial matters, including grantee payments and budget forms.

• Review of community survey for Auburn residents
• Discussion of next steps for the next grant cycle
• Financial updates regarding grantee payments and budget forms
• Approval of June minutes

The council approved the priorities and guidelines for the upcoming grant cycle and accepted the minutes from the June 22, 2023 meeting. Members confirmed access to the Grant Management System and reviewed community survey results.

• Approved June 22, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved publication of grant priorities and guidelines as drafted (Unanimous)
• Decided future Zoom meetings will use the Waiting Room functionality

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss student attendance, handbook updates, and the Superintendent's 2023-24 goals. The body will also review budget reports, including FY23 omnibus transfers and warrant articles for the Fall Special Town Meeting.

• FY23 Omnibus Budget Transfers and FY24 Budget Transfer
• FY25 French River Oil Bid Results
• School Department Warrant Articles for Fall Special Town Meeting
• Substitute Pay Rates
• School Improvement Plans and Multi-Hazard Plans

The School Committee updated the student attendance policy to allow up to 15 absences per year. Members also approved the 2023-2024 School Improvement Plans and student handbook updates for all district schools.

• Approved minutes from June 21, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved changing meeting dates to add Nov 29 and Dec 13, 2023, and eliminate Dec 6 and Dec 20, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved revising acceptable student absences from 9 to 15 per school year (unanimous)
• Approved 2023-2024 School Improvement Plans for all schools (unanimous)
• Approved 2023-2024 Student Handbook updates with a requirement to revisit K-5 transition survey data in October/November (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss a certificate of compliance and stormwater sampling results. The body will also address a cease and desist order for a specific property.

• Certificate of Compliance for 63 Chestnut Avenue
• Walsh Engineering stormwater outfall sampling results
• Cease and Desist for 16 George St.

The Conservation Commission ratified a cease and desist order regarding the storage of woody debris near a wetland. The commission also approved the meeting minutes from August 9, 2023.

• Ratified cease and desist for 16 George St (5-0-0)
• Accepted August 9, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review regional appointments and the distribution of COVID kits at Town Hall, the Senior Center, and the Library. The meeting includes updates on upcoming community events and rodent awareness education.

• Regional appointments for Region 2 Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition
• COVID kit distribution at Town Hall, Senior Center, and Library
• Community Yard Sale scheduled for 9/9/23
• Container gardening event scheduled for 9/16/23
• Review of open communicable disease cases

The Board of Health appointed Darlene Coyle and Jordan Bruso as the town's representatives for the Region 2 Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition. The board also approved the meeting minutes from June 15, 2023.

• Approved June 15, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0, 1 abstention)
• Appointed Darlene Coyle and Jordan Bruso as Region 2 Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition representatives (3-0)

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will discuss sewer billing rate structures and review use abatement applications for three specific addresses. The board will also receive updates on capital projects and the Sewer System Evaluation Study.

• Sewer Use Abatement Applications for 64 Berlin Street, 29 Burnap Street, and 106 Southold Road
• Sewer Billing Rate Structure discussion
• Holstrom Court Force Main Break
• Capital projects including Pinrock Pump Station Bypass Forcemain and Warren Road Pump Station Replacement
• VFD Replacements at Holstrom and Sword Street Pump Stations

The Board approved three sewer use abatement applications and decided to default to in-person meetings. Members agreed to request approximately $60,000 from Retained Earnings at the Fall Town Meeting for Pinrock Pump Station odor control rehabilitation. The Board also reviewed several capital projects funded by ARPA.

• Approved June 8, 2023 meeting minutes
• Decided to default to in-person meetings unless otherwise determined
• Approved $395.60 per installment abatement for 64 Berlin Street
• Approved $428.26 per installment abatement for 29 Burnap Street
• Approved $644.06 per installment abatement for 106 Southold Road
• Agreed to request ~$60,000 from Retained Earnings for Pinrock Pump Station odor control rehabilitation

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will discuss sewer billing rate structures and review abatement applications for three specific addresses. The board will also receive updates on capital projects and the Sewer System Evaluation Study.

• Sewer Use Abatement Applications for 64 Berlin Street, 29 Burnap Street, and 106 Southold Road
• Sewer Billing Rate Structure discussion
• Sewer System Evaluation Study for I&I Sewer Rehabilitation
• Capital project updates for Pinrock Pump Station Bypass Forcemain and Warren Road Pump Station Replacement
• VFD Replacements at Holstrom and Sword Street Pump Stations

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a request for a 24-month extension for 430 Rochdale Street. The board will also review minutes from the June 15, 2023 meeting.

• Public hearing for 24 month extension request at 430 Rochdale Street

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss scheduling the Fall Town Meeting for October 24, 2023. The board is also considering several grant authorizations for road safety and police equipment. Other items include a public hearing for a flammable storage license and a street acceptance petition.

• Public hearing for Flammable Storage License (Propane) at 10 Swanson Road
• Vote to set Fall Town Meeting for October 24, 2023
• Municipal Road Safety Grant for FFY24: $18,886.98
• Body Worn Camera Grant through EOPSS: $93,815.00
• Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for equipment: up to $50,000.00

The Select Board approved a propane storage license for the Swanson Road Intermediary School and a drainlayer license for Inishowen Contracting LLC. The Board also authorized several police department grants for body-worn cameras, road safety, and equipment, and declared two police cruisers as surplus.

• Approved Flammable Storage License (Propane) at 10 Swanson Road (5-0)
• Approved Drainlayer License for Inishowen Contracting LLC (5-0)
• Declared Cruiser Car 17 and Cruiser Car 52 as surplus (5-0)
• Authorized $18,886.98 Municipal Road Safety Grant for FFY24 (5-0)
• Authorized up to $94,000.00 Body Worn Camera Grant through EOPSS (5-0)
• Authorized up to $50,000.00 EOPSS Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (5-0)
• Voted to seek Attorney General opinion on Pinehurst Avenue speed limit authority

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The Zoning Bylaw Review Committee will meet to reorganize and review previous meeting minutes. The committee is scheduled to discuss accessory apartments and the Regional Mall District.

• Discussion of accessory apartments
• Discussion of Regional Mall District

The committee approved minutes from four previous meetings and decided to maintain its current organizational structure. Members proposed specific revisions to Section 9.3.12 regarding the size, bedroom count, and parking requirements for accessory apartments.

• Approved minutes from 2/5/2023, 3/6/2023, 4/24/2023, and 7/17/2023
• Approved remaining as exists with no changes to board organization
• Proposed consolidating accessory apartment standards to limit units to 700 square feet, 33% of original footprint, and 2 bedrooms
• Proposed requiring 2 off-street parking spaces for the main unit and 1.5 for the accessory unit

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding property compliance and enforcement. The body will also review utility maintenance notifications and meeting minutes.

• Certificate of Compliance for 17 Willis St.
• Public hearing for 10 Auburn Hill Rd.
• Enforcement Order for 25 Vinyl St.
• National Grid Notification of Utility Maintenance
• Informal discussion with Ian Starinovich

The Conservation Commission issued a Certificate of Compliance for two properties and ratified an enforcement order to stop unpermitted work at 25 Vinyl St. The commission also discussed unpermitted work at 282 Southbridge St. and provided filing guidance for a proposed project at 260 Bryn Mawr Ave.

• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 17 Willis St. (4-0-0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 10 Auburn Hill Road (3-0-0)
• Ratified issuance of enforcement order for 25 Vinyl St. (4-0-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes from 7/26/2023 as amended (3-0-1)

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Planning Board will hold a public hearing to consider a site plan application. The request involves the establishment of a furniture and mattress store.

• Site Plan Approval request for 771 Washington Street (Map 61 Parcel 9) by Heidi Richardson

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding site plan approvals and a subdivision plan. The board will also review minutes from the July 11, 2023 meeting.

• Site Plan Approval request for a furniture store at 771 Washington Street
• Site Plan Approval request for a self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Definitive Subdivision Plan for a two lot single family home development at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue
• ANR: 457, 460, 461, 463 Leicester Street

The Planning Board approved a site plan for a furniture store at 771 Washington Street and a plan for 457-463 Leicester Street. Two other applications for a self-storage facility and a residential subdivision were continued to September 12, 2023.

• Approved plan for 457 / 460 / 461 / 463 Leicester Street (4-0)
• Approved site plan for furniture store at 771 Washington Street (4-0)
• Continued self-storage facility hearing at 319 Washington Street to Sept 12 (4-0)
• Continued residential subdivision hearing at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue to Sept 12 (4-0)
• Approved July 11, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding specific properties and a vegetation management notification. The board will also review meeting minutes from June 28, 2023.

• Certificate of Compliance for 17 Willis St.
• Drainage change to approved order of conditions at 9 St. Mark St.
• Public hearing for 10 Auburn Hill Rd.
• CSX Transportation Vegetation Management Notification

The commission approved the meeting minutes from June 28, 2023. Other items were discussed, including site visits for properties on Willis St. and Auburn Hill Road, but no final decisions were recorded for those matters.

• Approved meeting minutes from 6/28/2023 (3-0-1)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board is meeting to discuss business from the Chairperson and Personnel Committee. The board will consider a recommendation to ratify the contract for Joshua Rickman as the Administrator.

• Action item: ratify the contract for Joshua Rickman as the Administrator

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The committee is meeting to review the zoning diagnostic, including short and long-term goals. The agenda also includes a discussion on accessory apartments.

• Zoning diagnostic short and long-term goals
• Accessory apartments

The committee reviewed a zoning diagnostic and identified four priority areas for future discussion. No votes were taken on bylaw changes, and previous meeting minutes remain unapproved.

• Prioritized Accessory Apartments, Mall, Aquifer, and Parking for future meetings
• Tabled approval of minutes from 2/6/2023, 3/6/2023, and 4/24/2023 to the next meeting

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Personnel Committee will meet to discuss and negotiate a contract with Joshua Rickman for the position of Administrator. The committee intends to prepare a recommendation for the WRTA Advisory Board.

• Contract negotiations with Administrator finalist Joshua Rickman

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review and vote on fund transfer requests for multiple town departments. The meeting also includes a review of previous minutes.

• Transfer requests for Department of Public Works
• Transfer requests for Fire/Rescue and Police Departments
• Transfer requests for Law and Finance Departments
• Transfer requests for Town Clerk/Elections and Human Resources
• Transfer requests for Department of Development and Inspectional Services

The Finance Committee approved a series of budget transfers for the Police Department, Assessing Division, Department of Public Works, and Pensions and Benefits to correct line-item deficits and cover specific operational costs.

• Approved four Police Department transfers totaling $3,948.60 to correct deficits and a sergeant's step increase (4-0)
• Approved four Assessing Division transfers totaling $2,799.00 to the Revaluation Account (4-0)
• Approved $1,409.65 transfer for Pakachoag Golf Course banking charges (4-0)
• Approved $35,056.75 transfer from Reserve Fund to Medicare for teacher summer pays (4-0)
• Approved $3,998.18 transfer from Stormwater to Highway overtime (4-0)
• Approved $330.35 transfer from Cemetery overtime to Parks labor (4-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings for a self-storage facility and a two-lot single-family home development. The board will also make decisions regarding properties at 744 Southbridge St. and 113 Washington St.

• Site Plan Approval for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Definitive Subdivision Plan for two-lot single family home development at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue
• Decisions for 744 Southbridge St. and 113 Washington St.
• Modification for 9 St. Mark Street
• ANR for Water District Southbridge Street

The Board approved an Act No. 40 (ANR) application for a new water pump station and continued two public hearings to August. A request for a drainage modification at 9 Saint Mark Street was discussed but not formally voted upon in the provided text.

• Approved ANR for Auburn Water District pump station at 6 Southbridge Street (5-0)
• Continued site plan hearing for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street to August 8 (5-0)
• Continued definitive subdivision plan hearing for Claire Drive and Linda Avenue to August 8 (5-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct interviews and potential appointments during a joint meeting with the Auburn Housing Authority. The board will also consider licenses for a one-day event and contracting services.

• Interviews and potential appointments for Auburn Housing Authority
• One-Day Beer & Wine License for Redemption Rock at Patrick Volkswagen
• Drainlayer License for Inishowen Contracting LLC of Rutland, MA
• Request for ARPA Funds for Auburn Local Sidewalk Management System
• Town Manager Goals

The Select Board appointed Stephen Consilvio to a vacancy on the Auburn Housing Authority following candidate interviews. The Board also approved a one-day alcohol license for a grand opening event and a sidewalk management system proposal.

• Appointed Stephen Consilvio to the Auburn Housing Authority (6-3)
• Approved one-day beer and wine license for Redemption Rock Brewing Co. at 519 Washington Street (5-0)
• Approved $150 gift from Gibbs Realty for Auburn Farmers and Cultural Market (5-0)
• Approved scope of work for Auburn Local Sidewalk Management System using ARPA funds (5-0)
• Authorized Town Manager to develop salary compensation and pedestrian safety plans (5-0)
• Tabled drainlayer license for Inishowen Contracting LLC until next meeting (5-0)

Select Board

The Select Board and Auburn Housing Authority are holding a joint meeting. The primary purpose of the session is to conduct an interview and consider a potential appointment.

• Interview and potential appointment of Sara K. Rufli

The Select Board appointed a new member to the Auburn Housing Authority and approved a one-day alcohol license for a grand opening event. The Board also authorized the use of ARPA funds for a pedestrian way asset inventory and maintenance plan.

• Appointed Stephen Consilvio to the Auburn Housing Authority (6-3)
• Approved one-day beer and wine license for Redemption Rock Brewing Co. at 519 Washington Street (5-0)
• Approved $150 gift from Gibbs Realty for Auburn Farmers and Cultural Market (5-0)
• Approved scope of work for Local Sidewalk Management System using ARPA funds (5-0)
• Directed Town Manager to develop salary compensation, pedestrian safety, and communication plans (5-0)
• Tabled drainlayer license for Inishowen Contracting LLC until next meeting (5-0)

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority and Select Board are holding a joint meeting. The primary purpose of the session is to conduct interviews and a potential appointment for Roberta Briggs.

• Interviews and potential appointment of Roberta Briggs

The Auburn Housing Authority and Select Board interviewed six applicants for a vacant board seat. Following a vote, Stephen Consilvio was appointed to the seat to serve until the May 2024 election.

• Appointed Stephen Consilvio to the vacant AHA Board seat (6 votes for Consilvio, 3 for Hargrove)

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to approve the May check registers and minutes from three previous meetings. The board will discuss and vote on a Community Room Policy and review the 2022 PMR. Other items include a board vacancy meeting with the Select Board.

• Vote to approve May check registers
• Vote to approve Community Room Policy
• Review of PMR 2022
• Board vacancy meeting with Select Board

The Board unanimously approved a new Community Room Policy requiring tenants to be in good standing and pay a $50 security deposit. The Board also approved the May check registers and minutes from May 23, June 1, and June 8.

• Approved May Check Registers (4-0)
• Approved May 23, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Approved June 1, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Approved June 8, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Community Room Policy (4-0)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority has scheduled a Special Advisory Board Meeting for June 30, 2023. The agenda for this meeting is listed as TBA.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a walking path and gas pipe installation. The board will also consider a certificate of compliance and a lake management extension.

• Notice of Intent for a walking path between Auburn Public Library and Goddard Park at 369 Southbridge St.
• Determination of Applicability for natural gas plastic pipe installation at 73 Shore Drive
• Certificate of Compliance for 10 Commonwealth Ave
• Solitude Lake Management extension for MADEP File # 098-0670

The Conservation Commission approved a negative determination of applicability for gas pipe installation at 73 Shore Drive. The board also issued a certificate of compliance for 10 Commonwealth Ave and an extension for Solitude Lake Management. A hearing for a walking path at 369 Southbridge St. was continued to July 12.

• Continued hearing for 369 Southbridge St. walking path to July 12 (5-0-0)
• Issued negative determination of applicability for 73 Shore Drive (5-0-0)
• Issued certificate of compliance for 10 Commonwealth Ave (5-0-0)
• Issued extension to Solitude Lake Management for MADEP File # 098-0670 (5-0-0)
• Accepted notification of work for Eversource Sword St. gas main install (5-0-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 3/22/2023 (4-1-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 5/24/2023 (4-1-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 6/14/2023 (5-0-0)

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to determine the applicability of wetland bylaws for a specific project. The body will review a request to install natural gas plastic pipe at a residential property.

• Determination of Applicability for natural gas plastic pipe installation at 73 Shore Drive (Map 5 Parcel 12)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review and vote on transfer requests for multiple town departments. The meeting also includes a review of minutes.

• Transfer requests for Department of Public Works
• Transfer requests for Department of Development and Inspectional Services
• Transfer requests for Town Clerk/Elections
• Transfer requests for Human Resources and Law Department
• Transfer requests for Fire/Rescue and Police Departments

The Finance Committee approved a series of budget transfers for various town departments, including police, fire, and public works. These funds were allocated to cover overtime, equipment replacements, and contractual obligations. All votes passed 4-0.

• Approved $3,395 transfer for animal kennel doors (4-0)
• Approved $789.99 in transfers for Town Clerk dog tag website bills (4-0)
• Approved $31,176.59 for police special event and shift overtime (4-0)
• Approved $15,152 police transfers for uniforms, technology, and dispatch (4-0)
• Approved $15,152 in fire/rescue overtime transfers (4-0)
• Approved $11,000 transfer for five security cameras in Parks (4-0)
• Approved $10,000 transfer for Law Department negotiator invoices (4-0)
• Approved vacation buy-back transfers for Town Manager and CFO (4-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is conducting public hearings for several special permits and site plan approvals. These items include requests for residential and commercial uses and a subdivision plan.

• Special Permit for a two bedroom apartment at 744 Southbridge Street
• Special Permit for an auto repair garage at 113 Washington Street
• Site Plan Approval for a self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Definitive Subdivision Plan for a two lot single family home development at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue

The Planning Board approved two special permits for a residential apartment and an auto repair garage. Two other applications for a self-storage facility and a subdivision plan were continued to the July 11 meeting.

• Approved special permit for two-bedroom apartment at 744 Southbridge Street (4-0)
• Approved special permit for auto repair garage at 113 Washington Street (4-0)
• Continued site plan approval for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street to July 11 (5-0)
• Continued definitive subdivision plan for Claire Drive and Linda Avenue to July 11 (5-0)
• Approved June 13, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss the allocation of federal funds for infrastructure and review a business license application. The board will also deliberate on collective bargaining strategy for DPW Unions in executive session.

• Request to allocate $350,000 in ARPA funds for Warren Road Pump Station Replacement Project
• Public hearing for Automotive Repair License Application by ADAS Diagnostic Solutions, LLC at 5 Southbridge Street
• Application by Common Ground Cider Works for a one-day Beer & Wine License for the Independence Day Celebration
• Executive session regarding collective bargaining strategy for DPW Unions

The Select Board allocated additional federal ARPA funds for a sewer project and approved a new automotive repair license. The Board also accepted three small donations for town departments.

• Approved $350,000 in ARPA funds for Warren Road Pump Station replacement (5-0)
• Approved automotive repair license for ADAS Diagnostic Solutions, LLC at 5 Southbridge Street (5-0)
• Approved $1,000 gift from Auburn Chamber of Commerce for Sharps & Medical Waste Program (5-0)
• Approved $500 gift from Auburn Chamber of Commerce for summer concert series (5-0)
• Approved $5 gift from Shaw’s to Fire/Rescue Department Gift Account (5-0)
• Voted to enter executive session to discuss DPW Union collective bargaining strategy (5-0)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will meet to elect its Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, and Clerk. The board will also consider a recommendation to extend Dennis Lipka's contract and receive updates on the administrator search and budget.

• Election of officers: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, and Clerk
• Vote on recommendation to extend Dennis Lipka's contract
• Update on Administrator's search
• Budget update
• Preview of new webpage

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council will meet via remote participation to approve May minutes and introduce a new member. The agenda includes discussions regarding a community survey for Auburn residents and grant process documentation.

• Approval of May minutes
• Introduction of new member Keith
• Discussion of community survey for Auburn residents
• Review of grant process documentation
• Financial updates and treasurer transition

The Council approved a grant amendment to move an Auburn High School Music performance from May 2023 to November 2023. Members reviewed a draft community priority survey and a draft of the Council's monthly task documentation. No financial updates were reported.

• Approved May 25, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved grant date change for Auburn High School Music from May 2023 to November 2023 (Unanimous)

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss several policy updates and a budget report. The meeting includes a review of the Assabet Valley Collaborative Fourth Quarter Report and requests for out-of-state field trip approvals.

• Budget Transfers-Omnibus Transfer #1
• Policy updates for AC, ADDA, AE, BDFA-E, BDF, BEDB-E, BEDB, BDC, and BJ
• Assabet Valley Collaborative Fourth Quarter Report
• Out of State Field Trip Approval
• Year to Date Budget Report

The School Committee unanimously approved updates to nine district policies and authorized a Class of 2024 field trip to Connecticut. The committee also reviewed the Assabet Valley Collaborative Fourth Quarter Report and the year-to-date budget report.

• Approved minutes from 5/17/23, 6/7/23 and executive session minutes from 3/1/23, 3/15/23, 4/5/23, and 4/26/23 (Unanimous)
• Approved updates to Policies AC, ADDA, AE, BDFA-E, BDF, BEDB-E, BEDB, BDC, and BJ (Unanimous)
• Approved Class of 2024 field trip to Brownstone Park in Portland CT for September 8, 2023 (Unanimous)

Youth Commission

The Youth Commission is meeting via remote participation. The primary agenda item is to verify and vote on a contract.

• Vote on contract

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review a rabies vaccination exemption request and discuss updates on town events, hazardous waste disposal, and communicable diseases.

• Rabies Vaccination Exemption Request for Donna Zanauskas's pet 'Harley'

The Board of Health granted a rabies vaccination exemption for a dog owned by Donna Zanauskas based on veterinary advice. The board also received updates on town events, hazardous waste disposal, and tick awareness.

• Approved Rabies Vaccination Exemption Request for dog 'Harley' (2-0)
• Held approval of 5/8/23 minutes for next meeting

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on June 15, 2023. The board will consider a request for a home occupation special permit.

• Special Permit request for home occupation at 29 Old Meetinghouse Rd (Map 066 Parcel 074) by Barbara Anton

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit request. The board will also review minutes from the May 18, 2023 meeting.

• Special Permit request for home occupation at 29 Old Meetinghouse Rd (Map 066 Parcel 074)

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for Barbara Anton to operate a home occupation. The applicant confirmed she will have no employees, no signage, and no ingredient deliveries. The board also approved the minutes from the May 18, 2023 meeting.

• Approved special permit for home occupation at 29 Old Meetinghouse Rd (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes from 5/18/23 hearing (5-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a continued public hearing regarding a notice of intent for a walking path project. The board will also consider a certificate of compliance and an Open Meeting Law complaint.

• Public hearing for walking path at 369 Southbridge St. (Map 33 Parcel 88)
• Certificate of Compliance for 10 Commonwealth Ave
• Open Meeting Law Complaint

The commission approved several sets of meeting minutes dating from October 2022 to May 2023 to resolve an Open Meeting Law Complaint. Action on minutes from March 22, 2023, and May 24, 2023, was deferred due to errors. No decision was made regarding the Certificate of Compliance for 10 Commonwealth Ave.

• Approved minutes from 12/14/2023 (6-1 abstain)
• Approved minutes from 1/11/2023 as amended (4-3 abstain)
• Approved minutes from 1/25/2023 as amended (5-2 abstain)
• Approved minutes from 2/8/2023 (5-2 abstain)
• Approved minutes from 3/8/2023 as amended (5-2 abstain)
• Approved minutes from 10/26/2022 as amended (4-3 abstain)
• Approved minutes from 11/16/2022 (5-2 abstain)
• Approved minutes from 9/14/2022 (4-3 abstain)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings for three special permits and site plan approvals. The board will also make decisions regarding 8 Leslie Avenue and 190 Washington Street Lot 1.

• Special Permit for a two bedroom apartment at 744 Southbridge Street
• Special Permit for an auto repair garage at 113 Washington Street
• Site Plan Approval for a self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Decisions for 8 Leslie Avenue
• Decisions for 190 Washington Street Lot 1

The Board was unable to vote on two special permit applications due to a lack of a quorum of members. Three public hearings were continued to the next meeting. No substantive decisions were made.

• Continued public hearing for special permit for two bedroom apartment at 744 Southbridge Street (3-0)
• Continued public hearing for special permit for auto repair garage at 113 Washington Street (3-0)
• Continued public hearing for site plan approval for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street (3-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing regarding a license application for Lundgren Collision Center. The board will also discuss and potentially vote on a public safety facility and a revised development agreement for Perry Place.

• Public hearing: Automotive Repair License Application for Lundgren Collision Center at 117 Washington Street
• Potential vote on Public Safety Facility
• Potential vote on Revised Development Agreement for Perry Place
• Committee reappointments for Finance Committee, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Board of Registrars
• Potential vote on School-Town Government Intern Program proposal

The Select Board approved an auto repair license for Lundgren Collision Center, LLC, subject to state and town requirements and specific odor mitigation conditions. The Board also discussed a proposed $78 million joint public safety facility, with members debating whether to proceed with the full project or prioritize a fire station due to urgent health and safety needs.

• Approved Auto Repair License for Lundgren Collision Center, LLC (5-0)

Swanson Road Intermediate School Council

The Swanson Road Intermediate School Council will meet to discuss building updates and community events for the 2023-24 period. The agenda also includes a discussion item titled 'Moving Forward'.

• Building updates
• Community events for 2023-24
• Discussion on 'Moving Forward'

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will discuss Fiscal Year 2023 sewer use rates and review abatement applications for five specific addresses. The board will also receive updates on capital projects and the Upper Blackstone Clean Water project.

• Sewer use abatement applications for 10 Westlund Avenue, 35 Burnap Street, 42 Berlin Street, 60 Pinehurst Avenue, and 10 Manor Road
• Fiscal Year 2023 Sewer Use Rates
• Pinrock Pump Station Bypass Forcemain project update
• Warren Road Pump Station Replacement project update
• VFD Replacements at Holstrom and Sword Street Pump Stations

The Board approved an increase in the variable sewer rate to address a projected budget deficit of $204,864. They also approved five specific sewer use abatement applications and the minutes from the April 6, 2023 meeting.

• Increased variable rate for water usage above 5,000 cubic feet from $9.38 to $10.62 per 100 cubic feet
• Maintained fixed minimum annual charge of $200 for up to 5,000 cubic feet
• Approved FY2022 sewer use abatement applications for 10 Westlund Avenue, 35 Burnap Street, 42 Berlin Street, 60 Pinehurst Avenue, and 10 Manor Road
• Approved April 6, 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes as amended

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to appoint a replacement for a vacant board seat and reorganize the board. Members will also vote on revised income limits for admission and fair market rents for continued occupancy.

• Appointment of replacement to vacant board seat
• Revised Income Limits for Admission & FMR's for Continued Occupancy
• Vote to discontinue televising of AHA Board Meetings
• Approval of May Check Registers
• Review of the Community Room Policy

The Board appointed Wayne Page to a vacant seat and voted to stop televising its meetings. The Board also accepted revised income limits for admission and fair market rents for continued occupancy.

• Approved appointment of Wayne Page to vacant seat (3-0-1)
• Accepted revised income limits for admission and FMRs for continued occupancy (4-0)
• Approved discontinuing televising of AHA Board meetings (3-1)
• Voted to review the Community Room Policy (4-0)
• Approved minutes of 5/11/23 and 5/15/23 (3-0-1)
• Tabled approval of May check registers

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved a series of budget transfer requests for the Fire/Rescue Department, Department of Public Works, Finance Department, and General Services. These transfers were used to cover overtime, equipment purchases, and winter salt costs.

• Approved $143,966.78 transfer for DPW salt and calcium costs (5-0)
• Approved five Fire/Rescue transfers to the Overtime Account (5-0)
• Approved $3,500 transfer for West Auburn Fire Station entrance door (5-0)
• Approved $3,779 transfer for a Fire Department service truck lift gate (5-0)
• Approved $6,500 in transfers for DPW July 4th celebration and pothole overtime (5-0)
• Approved $4,016.50 in transfers for a new Treasury/Collections office safe (5-0)
• Approved $5,000 transfer from Stormwater to Parks Laborer account (5-0)
• Approved May 2, 2023 meeting minutes as written (5-0)

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss a year-to-date budget report and various policy updates. The meeting includes reports on student college acceptances and the SWCEC third quarter report.

• Review of Year to Date Budget Report and Budget Transfers
• Policy updates for AC, ADDA, AE, BDFA-E, BDF, BEDB-E, BEDB, BDC, and BJ
• SWCEC Third Quarter Report
• Approval of Out of State Field Trip
• Custodial Second Shift Supervisor Job Description

The School Committee approved a high school ski trip to Maine and a new custodial supervisor job description. The board accepted $17,000 in donations from the classes of 2021 and 2022 for student funds and unified sports. Several policy updates were tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved out-of-state field trip to Sugarloaf Mountain, Maine (unanimous)
• Approved Custodial Second Shift Supervisor job description (unanimous)
• Accepted $7,000 donation from Class of 2021 and 2022 for 'Helping Our Own Fund' (unanimous)
• Accepted $10,000 donation from Class of 2022 for Unified Sports uniforms and needs (unanimous)
• Approved signing of letters to staff retirees (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion and vote on multiple policy readings and updates (unanimous)

Auburn Housing Authority

The Board voted unanimously to inform the Select Board of a vacancy on the Housing Authority Board. Staff reported on unit vacancies and upcoming maintenance at Stoneville Heights and Pakachoag Village.

• Voted to inform the Select Board of the vacancy on the Board (4-0)

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will conduct a reorganization and review the meeting minutes from May 3, 2023. The agenda includes a review of the APL Collection Policy for discussion and a possible vote.

• APL Policies and Procedures: Collection Policy review and possible vote
• Board Reorganization
• Review of May 3, 2023 meeting minutes

Select Board

The Auburn Select Board will meet to conduct a site visit at Perry Place, receive public comments, present a proclamation to Town Clerk Debra Gremo, and appoint an interim town clerk to serve until the May 2024 Annual Town Election. The meeting is largely procedural, with the main substantive action being the interim appointment.

• Site visit at Perry Place
• Proclamation to Town Clerk Debra Gremo
• Appointment of interim town clerk until May 2024 Annual Town Election

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct a site visit at Perry Place followed by a discussion and potential vote. The board also intends to appoint an Interim Town Clerk until the May 2024 Annual Town Election.

• Site visit and discussion regarding Perry Place
• Appointment of Interim Town Clerk through May 2024

The Select Board confirmed the appointment of a temporary town clerk and designated a board member to lead negotiations with a developer. The board also conducted a site visit at Perry Place and heard public concerns regarding a proposed development.

• Confirmed appointment of Ginger Buteau as Temporary Town Clerk (5-0)
• Appointed Mr. Kirrane as the Board's negotiator for the developer (5-0)
• Tabled further discussion on the development project to the next meeting (5-0)

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council will meet via remote participation to review April minutes and discuss treasurer transitions. The agenda includes reviewing a survey form for Auburn residents and providing financial updates.

• Approval of April minutes
• Review of survey form for Auburn residents
• Treasurer transition and financial updates
• GMS review and questions

The Council elected Gillian Kies as Treasurer effective June 1, 2023. The body also approved a date change for a grant awarded to the Auburn Public School Music Department. Members discussed the development of a priority survey and process documentation for future review.

• Approved April 27, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Elected Gillian Kies as Treasurer effective June 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved date change to November 8, 2023 for Auburn Public School Music Dept grant (Unanimous)

Pakachoag Elementary School's School Council

The Pakachoag Elementary School's School Council is holding its final meeting of the 2022-2023 school year via Zoom. The agenda includes a month in review, a look ahead, and discussion of the School Improvement Plan, along with questions and concerns. This is a routine year-end meeting with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Month in Review
• Month Ahead
• School Improvement Plan
• Questions, Suggestions, Concerns
• Final meeting of school year 22-23

Conservation Commission

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Notice of Intent from BSC Group for a walking path connecting the Auburn Public Library and Goddard Park at 369 Southbridge St. The commission will also review and approve meeting minutes from previous sessions. The agenda includes only this hearing and routine administrative items.

• Public hearing: Notice of Intent for walking path at 369 Southbridge St. (Map 33 Parcel 88), DEP # CE 098-0862
• Review of meeting minutes from 7/13/2022 through 11/16/2022

The Conservation Commission voted to accept minutes from eight different meetings held between July and November 2022. Action on the September 14, 2022, minutes was deferred. The commission discussed a potential DPW project at Waterman Road and Warren Road.

• Approved 7/13/2022 minutes (4-3)
• Approved 7/27/2022 minutes as amended (3-4)
• Approved 8/10/2022 minutes as amended (5-2)
• Approved 8/24/2022 minutes (4-3)
• Deferred action on 9/14/2022 minutes
• Approved 10/12/2022 minutes as amended (6-1)
• Approved 10/26/2022 minutes as amended (4-3)
• Approved 11/16/2022 minutes (5-2)

Swanson Road Intermediate School Council

The council will discuss building updates and a rededication event. The agenda also includes discussions regarding curriculum, safety, communication, and community events for the 2023-24 period.

• Building Updates
• Rededication
• Community Events 23-24
• Curriculum discussion
• Safety and Communication discussion

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings for several development projects including a daycare, an apartment, and an auto repair garage. The meeting also includes continued discussions on a self-storage facility, a warehouse/distribution center, and a residential subdivision.

• Site Plan Approval: in-home daycare at 8 Leslie Avenue
• Special Permit: two bedroom apartment at 744 Southbridge Street
• Special Permit: auto repair garage at 113 Washington Street
• Site Plan Approval: self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Site Plan Approval: warehouse/distribution facility at 190 Washington Street, Lot 1

The Board approved a site plan for an in-home daycare with specific conditions regarding noise and traffic. Two other special permit requests for a residential apartment and an auto repair garage were continued to future meetings.

• Approved site plan for in-home daycare at 8 Lesley Avenue (3-0) with conditions: no children outside before 9:00 AM, staggered drop-offs/pick-ups, and verification of a Board of Health food permit
• Continued public hearing for two-bedroom apartment at 744 Southbridge Street to June 13, 2023, due to lack of quorum for Special Permit vote
• Opened public hearing for auto repair garage at 113 Washington Street; no decision recorded

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Planning Board will hold a public hearing on May 23, 2023, regarding three specific land use applications. The board will consider requests for an in-home daycare, a two-bedroom apartment conversion, and an auto repair garage.

• Site Plan Approval for in-home daycare at 8 Leslie Avenue
• Special Permit for a two-bedroom apartment at 744 Southbridge Street
• Special Permit for an auto repair garage at 113 Washington Street

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to conduct a re-organization of the Board. The agenda also includes provisions for public comment.

• Re-Organization of the Board

The Auburn Housing Authority held a re-organizational meeting to elect its leadership for the term. The board appointed a Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, and Vice Treasurer.

• Elected Roberta Briggs as Chairman (4-0)
• Elected Monica Locker as Vice Chairman (4-0)
• Elected Sharon Catino as Treasurer (4-0)
• Elected Rose Turner as Vice Treasurer (4-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct a reorganization and discuss the Town Clerk's resignation process. The board will also address the Perry Place development and potential site visit dates.

• Select Board Re-Organization
• Update on Interim Town Clerk process following resignation
• Resignation from the Finance Committee
• Reaffirmation of position regarding Perry Place Development
• Potential vote to set a date for a site visit regarding Perry Place

The Select Board elected its Chair and Vice Chair following the annual town election. The Board also approved a proclamation for outgoing Town Clerk Debra Gremo and filled a vacancy on the Flag Committee.

• Elected Sara Rufli as Chair (5-0)
• Elected Daniel Carpenter as Vice Chair (4-0-1)
• Approved proclamation for Town Clerk Debra Gremo (5-0)
• Appointed Tristan Laliberte to the Flag Committee (5-0)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The WRTA Advisory Board will meet via webinar to discuss personnel and administrative matters. The meeting includes an update on the Administrator's search and a report regarding the budget.

• Chairperson update on Administrator's search
• Administrator's report on budget
• Preview of new webpage

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a Special Permit request. Applicant John Sarli is requesting an accessory apartment under Section 9.3.12 of the Auburn Zoning Bylaw.

• Special Permit request for an accessory apartment at 264 Bryn Mawr Ave

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a public hearing regarding an application by John Sarli. The applicant is requesting a special permit for an accessory apartment located at 264 Bryn Mawr Ave.

• Special Permit request: Accessory Apartment at 264 Bryn Mawr Ave

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for an accessory apartment at 264 Bryn Mawr Ave. The board also approved the minutes from the April 20, 2023, hearing.

• Approved special permit for accessory apartment at 264 Bryn Mawr Ave (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes from 04/20/23 hearing (5-0-0)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Personnel Committee will meet in open session before entering an executive session. The purpose of the meeting is to review resumes for the position of Administrator.

• Review of resumes for the position of Administrator

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and vote on various transfer requests for town departments. The committee is also asked to authorize the CFO to verbally approve transfers up to $250.00 to close out the fiscal year.

• Review/Vote on Transfer Requests for multiple departments including DPW, Police, and Fire/Rescue
• Authorization for CFO to verbally approve transfers up to $250.00 to close out the current fiscal year

The Finance Committee approved a series of budget transfer requests across various town departments, including Public Works, Police, Fire/Rescue, and the Library. These transfers were used to cover deficits, fund equipment repairs, and meet salary obligations.

• Approved $12,425 in Library transfers for fire alarm contracts and COLA (6-0)
• Approved $29,000 in Police Department transfers for dispatchers, fitness, and overtime (6-0)
• Approved $17,116.20 in Fire/Rescue transfers for salaries and professional development (6-0)
• Approved $40,000+ in DPW Highway transfers for salt, calcium, and overtime (6-0)
• Approved $40,000 in DPW Fleet Maintenance transfers for vehicle repairs (6-0)
• Approved $7,900 for Sewer Division odor control and asset updates (6-0)
• Approved $10,000 for Pakachoag Golf Course merchandise and concessions (6-0)
• Approved $10,000 in Town Hall transfers for equipment rental and office refurbishing (6-0)

School Committee

The committee will review the FY 2024 budget update and several policy updates. New business includes appointing Civil Rights and Title IX coordinators for the 2023-2024 year.

• FY 2024 Budget Update
• Appointment of Civil Rights Coordinator for 2023-2024
• Appointment of Title IX Coordinator for 2023-2024
• Assabet Valley Collaborative Approved Tuition Rate & Fees for FY'24
• Policy updates: AC, ADDA, AE

School Committee

The Auburn School Committee is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, hearing citizen comments, and receiving reports from students and staff. Key actions include an FY 2024 budget update, appointments of Civil Rights and Title IX coordinators, and votes on several policy updates and removals. The committee will also consider the Assabet Valley Collaborative tuition rate for FY'24 and approve PreK and Kindergarten registration plans.

• FY 2024 Budget Update
• Appointment of Civil Rights Coordinator for 2023-2024
• Appointment of Title IX Coordinator for 2023-2024
• Assabet Valley Collaborative Approved Tuition Rate & Fees for FY'24
• Vote to Remove Policies: BEDB-E, BEDB, BDC, BJ

The School Committee unanimously approved the FY 2024 budget and appointed new leadership roles for the 2023-2024 term. The committee also appointed Alan Keller to two coordinator roles and Mandy Williams as secretary.

• Appointed Jessie Harrington as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Appointed Meghan McCrillis as Vice Chairperson (unanimous)
• Appointed Mandy Williams as School Committee Secretary
• Approved minutes from 4/26/23 (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2024 Budget of $30,137,276 (unanimous)
• Appointed Alan Keller as Civil Rights Coordinator for 2023-2024 (unanimous)
• Appointed Alan Keller as Title IX Coordinator for 2023-2024 (unanimous)

Public Hearing Notices

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board Personnel Committee will meet via Zoom on May 17, 2023. The committee intends to enter executive session to review resumes for the position of Administrator.

• Review of resumes for the position of Administrator

Auburn Housing Authority

The Board will hold a public hearing to review the HUD Annual Plan 2023. Following the hearing, the Board will discuss and vote on whether to approve the plan.

• Public Hearing: HUD Annual Plan 2023
• Vote: Approval of the HUD Annual Plan 2023

The Auburn Housing Authority approved the HUD Annual Plan for 2023 through 2027. The plan allocates $253,316 annually, including $153,316 for operations. The plan will now be presented to the Town for acceptance and signature.

• Approved HUD Annual Plan/5 Year Plan (5-0)

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and check registers. The board will also discuss and vote on payments and completion certificates for kitchen appliance upgrades.

• Certificate of Substantial Completion and payment for stove vent hoods from K&G Remodeling
• Certificate of Substantial Completion and payment for new stoves from Whitco
• Approval of March and April 2023 check registers
• Discussion of Open Meeting Law complaints

The Board unanimously approved certificates of completion and payments for stove vent hoods and new stoves funded by state grants. The Executive Director reported on ongoing maintenance, vacancy management, and lease enforcement issues.

• Approved Minutes of March 9, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Minutes of March 16, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Minutes of April 6, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved March 2023 Check Registers (unanimous)
• Approved April 2023 Check Registers (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Substantial Completion and payment for stove vent hoods for K&G Remodeling (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Substantial Completion and payment for new stoves from Whitco (unanimous)

Auburn Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee is meeting to review materials related to the Collection Development Policy. The meeting will take place at Auburn Town Hall.

• Review of Collection Development Policy materials

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings regarding several land use requests. These include a request for vehicle display pads at 735 Southbridge St., residential construction at 12 Auburn Hill Road, and a walking path project near the Auburn Public Library.

• Determination of Applicability: two vehicle display pads, dumpster enclosure, and retaining wall at 735 Southbridge St.
• Determination of Applicability: single-family home construction at 12 Auburn Hill Road
• Notice of Intent: walking path between Auburn Public Library and Goddard Park at 369 Southbridge St.

The Commission issued negative determinations of applicability for projects at 735 Southbridge St. and 12 Auburn Hill Road. A public hearing for a walking path at 369 Southbridge St. was continued, and the board voted to hire a consultant for wetland habitat planning.

• Issued negative determination of applicability for 735 Southbridge St. (6-0-0)
• Issued negative determination of applicability for 12 Auburn Hill Road (6-0-0)
• Continued public hearing for 369 Southbridge St. walking path to 5/24/23 (6-0-0)
• Approved hiring a consultant for wetland habitat planning (6-0-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes from 3/9/2022 (5-1 abstain)

Planning Board

The Planning Board could not take any official action or hold votes because a quorum was not present. Three public hearing items were automatically continued to the next meeting.

• Site plan for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street automatically continued
• Site plan for warehouse/distribution facility at 190 Washington Street automatically continued
• Definitive subdivision plan for Claire Drive and Linda Avenue automatically continued
• Approval of previous meeting minutes tabled due to lack of quorum

Select Board

The Select Board will review license changes for 99 Restaurants of Boston, LLC and Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar. The meeting includes a discussion on a $525,000 donation of an ambulance and equipment to the Fire Rescue Department.

• Change of Officers/Directors/LLC Managers for 99 Restaurants of Boston, LLC at 793 Southbridge Street
• Change of Manager for Apple New England, LLC (Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar) at 680 Southbridge Street
• Common Victualer and Hotel/Motel License applications for Comfort Inn, 426 Southbridge Street
• Donation of an ambulance and equipment to Fire Rescue Dep't. valued at $525,000
• Update on Development Agreement for Perry Place

The Select Board accepted a donation of up to $525,000 from the Estate of Deborah Farnum Virgilio for a new ambulance. The Board also approved several business license changes and a $1,000 gift for the Summer Concert Series.

• Approved gift of up to $525,000 from Estate of Deborah Farnum Virgilio for an ambulance (3-0-1)
• Approved $1,000 gift from Southbridge Credit Union for 2023 Summer Concert Series (4-0)
• Approved change of Officers, Directors and LLC Managers for 99 Restaurants of Boston, LLC (4-0)
• Approved change of manager to Paul Alan Williams for Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar (4-0)
• Approved Common Victualer License for Comfort Inn with DCG conditions (4-0)
• Approved Hotel/Motel License for Comfort Inn with DCG conditions (4-0)
• Approved proclamation for Eagle Scout Gabe Lazerick (4-0)
• Accepted minutes of April 10, 2023 (4-0)

Board of Health

The Auburn Board of Health will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding whether 101 Elmwood Street is unfit for human habitation. The meeting will also include an update on the end of the COVID Public Health Emergency and various office updates.

• Public hearing: Unfit for Human Habitation at 101 Elmwood Street
• COVID-19 update regarding MDPH announcement
• Office updates including Sharps Program and Town Wide cleanup

Board of Health

The Board of Health will conduct a public hearing regarding whether 101 Elmwood Street is unfit for human habitation. The meeting also includes an update on the end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency and various office updates.

• Public hearing: Unfit for Human Habitation at 101 Elmwood Street
• COVID-19 update regarding MDPH announcement
• Office updates including Sharps Program and Town Wide cleanup
• Review of open communicable disease cases

The Board held a hearing to determine if a February 2023 order declaring 101 Elmwood Street unfit for human habitation was justified. The Board voted to uphold the order based on a water pipe break that left the home without water, electricity, or heat. The property owner is currently working with contractors and insurance to complete repairs.

• Approved meeting minutes for 3/9/23 (2-0, 1 abstention)
• Upheld February 2023 'Unfit for Human Habitation' order for 101 Elmwood Street (3-0)

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees will review the APL Budget Report and discuss the library's Collection Policy. The board will also address the Library Employees Union Contract and weeding information in the ARIS.

• Review and possible vote on APL Policies and Procedures: Collection Policy
• Presentation of APL Budget Report
• Request for copies of the Library Employees Union Contract
• Discussion of ARIS weeding information

The Auburn Library Board of Trustees met on May 3, 2023. The meeting was marked by a conflict when Library Director Dr. Jean Collins objected to being asked to summarize a 12-page strategic plan report rather than read it aloud, and subsequently left the meeting. The board voted 5-1 to defer further consideration of the report to the June 7 meeting. No substantive decisions were made on the budget or other items.

• Approved minutes from April 5 meeting unanimously
• Approved amended minutes from April 19 meeting unanimously
• Deferred strategic plan report to June 7 meeting (5-1)
• Discussed but took no vote on collections development policy draft
• Chair reported on meeting with Town Manager, no action taken

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee voted 4-0 to recommend approval of Article 23, which appropriates $20,000 from available funds for a high-speed ballot tabulator. They also approved numerous fund transfers for the Fire/Rescue Department, DPW, Finance Department, General Services, Veterans Services, and Cable TV, as well as recommended approval of Articles 13 and 14 for the Annual Town Meeting Warrant.

• Recommended approval of Article 23: $20,000 for high-speed ballot tabulator (4-0)
• Approved $1,200 transfer for election supplies (4-0)
• Approved three transfers to Fire/Rescue Building Maintenance Account totaling $1,156.61 (4-0)
• Approved three transfers to Fire/Rescue Overtime Account totaling $42,733.92 (4-0)
• Approved $163.39 transfer for medical supplies (4-0)
• Approved DPW transfers: $1,838 for training, $1,400 for hoisting license, $1,050 for uniforms (4-0 each)
• Approved $749 transfer for professional development (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Article 13: $9,947.38 interest for school health/recreational activities (4-0)

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council is meeting to approve March minutes and discuss new ACC members. The agenda also includes updates on social media, the Auburn Volunteer celebration, and the Grant Management System.

• Approval of March minutes
• Discussion of new ACC members
• Social media updates
• Auburn Volunteer celebration updates
• Grant Management System discussion

The Council unanimously approved the minutes from the March 30, 2023 meeting. The body accepted two new members, Gillian Kies and Wendi Adams. No other substantive votes were taken.

• Approved March 30, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Accepted Gillian Kies and Wendi Adams as new Council members

Auburn Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee is meeting to review materials regarding the Collection Development Policy.

• Review of Collection Development Policy materials

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is conducting public hearings for several development requests. The body will review notices of intent and requests for determination of applicability for commercial and residential sites.

• 12-14 Sword Street: Commercial building construction and parking lot expansion
• 735 Southbridge St: Installation of vehicle display pads, dumpster enclosure, and retaining wall
• 12 Auburn Hill Road: Construction of a single-family home
• 369 Southbridge St: Construction of a walking path between Auburn Public Library and Goddard Park
• Auburn Water District Interconnection DEP File # 098-0809 extension

The commission issued a standard order of conditions with special requirements for a commercial project at 12-14 Sword Street. A request for a walking path between the Auburn Public Library and Goddard Park was discussed, and a hearing for 12 Auburn Hill Road was continued to May 10. The board also granted a three-year extension for the Auburn Water District Interconnection.

• Issued standard order of conditions plus special conditions 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 11, 13, and 14 for 12-14 Sword Street (5-0-0)
• Granted 3-year extension for Auburn Water District Interconnection DEP File # 098-0809 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 12 Auburn Hill Road to May 10
• Approved meeting minutes from 4/13/2022 (4-1-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 4/27/2022 (3-2-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 5/11/2022 (4-1-0)

School Committee

The School Committee will review the AHS Program Of Studies and policy updates. The meeting includes reports on district safety, teaching and learning, and year-to-date budget figures.

• AHS Program Of Studies
• Year to Date Budget Report and Budget Transfers
• School Admissions Policy
• District Safety Team Update
• MassHealth Renewal

The School Committee unanimously approved updates to the School Admission Policy JF and the Auburn High School Program of Studies for 2023-2024. The committee also approved budget transfers and decided to cancel the May 2 meeting prior to the Town Meeting.

• Approved updates to School Admission Policy JF (unanimous)
• Approved alterations to AHS Program of Studies for 2023-2024 (unanimous)
• Approved budget transfers dated April 19, 2023 (unanimous)
• Decided not to meet on May 2, 2023 prior to Town Meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 4/5/23 (unanimous)
• First reading of Policy AC (Non-Discrimination), Policy ADDA (Background Checks), and Policy AE (Commitment to Accomplishment) completed

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to review requests for determination of applicability and a notice of intent. The body will discuss proposed site work and construction at three different locations.

• 735 Southbridge St.: installation of vehicle display pads, dumpster enclosure, retaining wall, and paving
• 12 Auburn Hill Road: construction of a single-family home
• 369 Southbridge St.: construction of a walking path between Auburn Public Library and Goddard Park

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings on four development applications, including a warehouse and a self-storage facility. The board will also address a decision regarding 824 Southbridge Street.

• Special Permit request for a hammerhead lot at 375 Oxford Street N
• Site Plan Approval for a self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street
• Site Plan Approval for a warehouse/distribution facility at 190 Washington Street, Lot 1
• Definitive Subdivision Plan for two single family homes at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue
• Decision regarding 824 Southbridge Street

The Planning Board approved a lot request for 89 Prospect Street and accepted the withdrawal of a special permit application for 375 Oxford Street N. Public hearings for a self-storage facility and a residential subdivision were continued to May 9, 2023. The board also continued a hearing for a warehouse facility at 190 Washington Street following discussions regarding traffic and road improvements.

• Approved lot request for 89 Prospect Street (4-0)
• Accepted withdrawal with prejudice of Special Permit for 375 Oxford Street N (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street to May 9, 2023 (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for warehouse facility at 190 Washington Street to May 9, 2023 (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for subdivision at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue to May 9, 2023 (4-0)
• Tabled approval of April 11, 2023 minutes

Select Board

The Select Board approved various business and vendor licenses, including a common victualer license and secondhand dealer renewals. The Board appointed Emma Lee Martin to the Board of Registrars and accepted a vehicle donation for fire rescue training. A final development agreement for Perry Place was deferred to address outstanding issues with the developer.

• Approved Common Victualer License for Diamond Chevrolet, Inc. (3-0-1)
• Approved Seasonal Open Air License and waived fee for Boy Scout Troop 101 Yard Sale (4-0)
• Approved Transient Vendor License for The Toasted Roasters, Inc. (3-0-1)
• Approved Secondhand (Junk) License renewals for Hannoush Jewelers, GameStop, Inc., and Tom’s Collectibles (4-0)
• Appointed Emma Lee Martin to the Board of Registrars for a term expiring 6/30/25 (3-1)
• Approved gift of 1999 Toyota Camry (value $1,372.00) to Fire/Rescue Department (4-0)
• Voted to return to Perry Place developer regarding water, sidewalk, and stormwater issues (4-0)
• Voted to ask Town Manager to investigate establishing an Agricultural Committee (4-0)

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The committee will review minutes from previous meetings and discuss items related to the Agricultural Committee and Accessory Apartments. The agenda also includes a provision for new business unforeseen by the Chair.

• Review of February 6 and March 6, 2023 minutes
• Discussion regarding Agricultural Committee
• Discussion regarding Accessory Apartments

The committee voted unanimously to support the formation of an Agricultural Committee to address animal and agriculture concerns and update related bylaws. Discussion regarding accessory apartments was tabled.

• Voted 3-0 in support of the creation of an Agricultural Committee
• Tabled discussion on accessory apartments

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to consider two special permit requests. These requests involve a nonconforming structure and an accessory apartment.

• Special Permit request by Brusa Construction Corp. for a nonconforming structure at 118 Southold Road
• Special Permit request by Matthew Morrissey for an accessory apartment at 76 Jerome Avenue

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for two special permit requests. The board will also review meeting minutes from previous sessions.

• Special Permit request by Brusa Construction Corp. to change a nonconforming structure at 118 Southold Road
• Special Permit request by Matthew Morrissey for an accessory apartment at 76 Jerome Avenue

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved two special permit applications for property modifications. One permit allows for changes to a nonconforming structure, and another allows for an accessory apartment with a one-bedroom limit.

• Approved special permit for changing a nonconforming structure at 118 Southold Road (5-0-0)
• Approved special permit for an accessory apartment at 76 Jerome Avenue with a one-bedroom condition (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes from 03/16/23, 08/18/22, 06/16/22, 05/19/22, 04/21/22, and 03/17/22 hearings

Auburn Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee is meeting to review materials for the Collection Development Policy. The agenda contains only this single item, with no other business listed.

• Review materials for the Collection Development Policy

Auburn Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee is meeting to review materials for the Collection Development Policy. This is a working session focused on that policy review.

• Review materials for the Collection Development Policy

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees will hold a brief meeting at the Auburn Town Hall. The agenda consists entirely of procedural items, including a roll call and a response to a complaint regarding the Open Meeting Law. No substantive policy decisions, budget items, or public hearings are listed.

• BOT response to Open Meeting Law complaint

The Board of Trustees reviewed a complaint from Patrick Higgins regarding an alleged Open Meeting Law violation from April 5. The Board unanimously approved a draft response letter to be sent to Mr. Higgins.

• Approved draft response letter to Patrick Higgins regarding Open Meeting Law complaint (unanimous)

Auburn Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees Subcommittee is meeting to review materials for a Collection Development Policy. The meeting is scheduled for April 12, 2023, from 6-8 PM at Auburn Town Hall. The agenda contains only this single substantive item.

• Review materials for a Collection Development Policy

Select Board

The Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting regarding the Public Safety Facility Project. The agenda includes a presentation by Tecton Architects and a report from the Town Manager on financial impact.

• Presentation by Tecton Architects regarding the Public Safety Facility Project
• Presentation by Town Manager regarding financial impact

The Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee met for a presentation by Tecton Architects regarding a proposed combined police and fire facility. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting served as an update to inform the Select Board's future determination on the project.

Conservation Commission

The Commission approved a standard order of conditions with special provisions for 23 Brook Street and granted a three-year extension for the Pondville, Eddy, and Auburn Ponds project. A public hearing for 12-14 Sword Street was continued to April 26, 2023.

• Issued standard order of conditions plus special conditions 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, and 11 for 23 Brook St (5-0-0)
• Approved 3-year extension of Order of Conditions for Pondville, Eddy, and Auburn Ponds (5-0-0)
• Continued public hearing for 12-14 Sword Street to 4/26/23
• Accepted 2/9/2022 meeting minutes (3 approve, 2 abstain)
• Accepted 2/23/2022 meeting minutes (3 approve, 2 abstain)
• Accepted 3/23/2022 meeting minutes (4 approve, 1 abstain)

School Committee

The Auburn School Committee, Select Board, and Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting to hear presentations from Tecton Architects on the Public Safety Facility Project and from the Town Manager on its financial impact. The meeting is for discussion and questions, with no votes scheduled.

• Presentation by Tecton Architects on Public Safety Facility Project
• Presentation by Town Manager on financial impact
• Joint meeting of School Committee, Select Board, and Finance Committee

The Select, School, and Finance boards held a joint meeting to review a feasibility study for a combined police and fire facility on West Street. No formal votes were taken to approve or deny the project; the meeting served as an informational update on costs, site selection, and potential tax impacts.

• No substantive decisions made; meeting was for informational updates

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee, Select Board, and School Committee will hold a joint meeting to review the Public Safety Facility Project. Tecton Architects will present the project details, followed by a presentation by the Town Manager on the financial impact. The agenda concludes with questions from board members and adjournment.

• Presentation by Tecton Architects on the Public Safety Facility Project
• Presentation by Town Manager on the financial impact of the project

The Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee received a presentation from Tecton Architects regarding a proposed combined police and fire public safety facility. The presentation detailed site evaluations, building deficiencies, and the impact of construction cost inflation. No formal votes or decisions were recorded in the provided text.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding amendments to the Floodplain District and Signs and Advertising sections of the Zoning Bylaw. The board will also review several special permits and site plan approvals for commercial and residential developments.

• Amendments to Section 4.1 Floodplain District and Section 7 Signs and Advertising of the Zoning Bylaw
• Special Permit for a hammerhead lot at 375 Oxford Street N (S&K Development, LLC)
• Site Plan Approval for a self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street (Kimley-Horn and Associates)
• Site Plan Approval for a warehouse/distribution facility at 190 Washington Street (Eastland Partners Inc.)
• Special Permit for a drive thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street (Mass Ten Enterprises LLC)

The Board recommended approval for zoning bylaw amendments regarding floodplain districts and sign regulations. A special permit for a drive-thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street was approved with specific conditions. Several other site plan and subdivision requests were continued to a future meeting.

• Recommended approval of Floodplain District zoning amendments (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Signs and Advertising Devices zoning amendments (5-0)
• Approved special permit for drive-thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street with conditions to install a gate at Maple Street and meet Fire Department specifications (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for hammerhead lot at 375 Oxford Street North to April 25, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street to April 25, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for warehouse facility at 190 Washington Street to April 25, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for subdivision at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue to April 25, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved March 28, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Planning Board will hold public hearings to discuss two proposed zoning bylaw amendments. These changes affect flood plain standards and regulations for signs and advertising devices.

• Amendments to Section 4.1 Floodplain District to incorporate updated FIRM maps
• Amendments to Section 7 Signs and Advertising Devices regarding definitions, sign size, and flashing light colors

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Planning Board will hold a public hearing on April 11, 2023, to consider a special permit application from S&K Development, LLC. The permit, sought under section 5.3.2 of the Auburn Zoning Bylaw, would allow a hammerhead lot at 375 Oxford Street North. The hearing will be held in person and remotely, with written comments accepted.

• Special permit application by S&K Development, LLC for a hammerhead lot at 375 Oxford Street N (Map 40 Parcel 97)
• Public hearing under Section 5.3.2 of the Auburn Zoning Bylaw
• Meeting at 7:10 pm in the Board of Selectmen Room, Town Hall, 104 Central Street
• Remote participation available via phone or computer

Select Board

The Auburn Select Board is meeting to vote on recommendations for the Annual Town Meeting warrant, consider accepting a $14,729 grant for a regional heat resiliency plan, and decide on a request to apply for federal funds to hire four additional patrol officers. The board will also hold a public hearing on the cable television license renewal and consider several license applications for local fundraisers.

• Public hearing on Town of Auburn Cable Television License Renewal
• One-day liquor license for Knights of Columbus charity event at St. Joseph's Church
• Seasonal open air license for Duck Race Fundraiser at Auburn Public Library
• Vote on recommendations for May 2 Annual Town Meeting Warrant articles
• Vote to accept and expend $14,729 CMRPC grant for Phase I of Regional Heat Resiliency Plan

The Select Board approved a cable license renewal for Spectrum Northeast LLP and authorized federal grant funds to hire four additional patrol officers. The Board also recommended approval for the majority of the FY2024 Annual Town Meeting Warrant articles. A vote on the Perry Place development agreement failed, and the item was tabled for further discussion.

• Approved Spectrum Northeast LLP cable license renewal (4-0)
• Authorized application and expenditure of 2023 COPS Hiring Program grants for 4 patrol officers (4-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license and waived fee for Knights of Columbus (4-0)
• Approved open air license and waived fee for Auburn Junior Woman’s Club (4-0)
• Accepted $14,729 grant for Regional Heat Resiliency Plan Phase I (4-0)
• Accepted gift of cargo trailer (approx. $3,000) for CERT program and $100 gift for Public Library (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Town Meeting Warrant Articles 3-14 and 16-26 (4-0)
• Tabled Perry Place development agreement after motion to reject failed (2-2)

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will review the proposed FY2024 budget and Town Meeting Warrant Articles. The board is also considering sewer use abatement applications for two specific addresses.

• Sewer Use Abatement Applications for 714B Southbridge Street and 17 Washington Street
• FY2024 Proposed Budget Review
• Town Meeting Warrant Articles
• Capital Planning updates for Pinrock Pump Station Bypass Forcemain and Warren Road Pump Station Replacement
• VFD Replacements at Holstrom and Sword Street Pump Stations

The Board approved a fiscal year 2022 sewer bill abatement for 714B Southbridge Street. Members reviewed the proposed FY2024 budget and two Town Meeting warrant articles for sewer rehabilitation. The Board also noted upcoming vacancies for two commissioner positions.

• Approved February 16, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved FY2022 sewer bill abatement for 714B Southbridge Street down to 37,275 cubic feet
• Postponed abatement application for 17 Washington Street due to incomplete application

Auburn Housing Authority

The Board will discuss and vote on several internal administrative policies. The meeting also includes a vote to approve the minutes from March 16, 2023, and the warrants for March 2023.

• Vote to approve March 2023 warrants
• Vote to approve March 16, 2023 minutes
• Discussion of various policies including Credit Card, Employee Drug & Alcohol, and Entry policies

The Auburn Housing Authority unanimously approved an amended Employment Policy and a suite of operational policies. The board tabled the approval of March 2023 warrants and minutes until the next meeting.

• Approved amended Employment Policy (5-0)
• Approved Credit Card, Damage Charge, Disposition, Doorway/Common Hallway Obstruction, Emergency, Employee Drug & Alcohol, Employment, Entry, Energy Conservation, and Entrance to Apartments for Suspected Medical Emergency policies (5-0)
• Tabled March 2023 warrants
• Tabled March 16, 2023 minutes

Bryn Mawr Elementary School's School Council

The Bryn Mawr Elementary School Council is meeting to approve minutes from the March 8 meeting and discuss end-of-year events, plans for the 2023-2024 school year, and open discussion. The agenda is routine and contains no specific proposals or decisions.

• Approval of minutes from 3/8/23
• End of the year events
• 2023-2024 school year planning
• Open discussion

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review expenditures and the library's collection policy. The board will also discuss reading room renovations and methods for gathering community input.

• Review of APL Expenditures
• Discussion of APL Collection Policy
• Reading Room Renovations
• Gathering Community Input
• Conflict of Interest Discussion

The Board unanimously directed a subcommittee to update the draft collections policy based on the Director's edits and Board discussion. The Board also scheduled two upcoming meetings for May and June. The FY-24 Library Budget was presented and discussed.

• Approved February 1 Board Meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tasked subcommittee to update draft collections policy (unanimous)
• Approved May 3 and June 6 meeting dates and times (5-1)

School Committee

The Auburn School Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY 24 draft budget and discuss updates to Policy JF regarding school admissions and residency requirements. The meeting also includes a review of the year-to-date budget report and budget transfers. Additionally, the committee will approve minutes from the March 15, 2023 meeting and receive reports on student activities.

• Public Hearing on FY 24 Draft Budget
• Update Policy JF - School Admissions, Residency Requirements
• Business/Financial Report: Year to Date Budget Report, Budget Transfers
• Meeting Minutes Approval from 3/15/23

The committee conducted a public hearing for the proposed FY 2024 school district budget totaling $30,132,276. Members of the leadership team presented budget requests for their respective schools and departments. The committee also approved a list of budget transfers dated March 27, 2023.

• Approved minutes from 3/15/23 (unanimous)
• Opened FY 2024 budget public hearing (unanimous)
• Closed FY 2024 budget public hearing (unanimous)
• Approved budget transfers dated March 27, 2023 (unanimous)
• Adjourned into executive session to discuss non-union personnel bargaining (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Auburn Finance Committee will review and vote on recommendations for the May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting warrant articles, and will vote on the FY2024 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) budget. The committee will also review and vote on transfer requests from several town departments, including Fire/Rescue, Public Works, and Police. The meeting is hybrid, with in-person and remote options.

• Vote on recommendations for May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting warrant articles
• Vote on Capital Improvements (CIP) Budget FY2024
• Review/vote on transfer requests from Fire/Rescue, Public Works, Development and Inspectional Services, Public Services, Police, Finance, General Services, and Law departments

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee voted to recommend approval of the FY2024 budget, capital improvements budget, and several specific warrant articles for the Annual Town Meeting. The committee also approved two internal fund transfers and deferred positions on certain zoning and school-related articles.

• Recommended approval of FY2024 Budget (5-0)
• Recommended approval of FY2024 Capital Improvement Budget of $3,053,650.00 (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $225,856.00 for three police vehicles (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $405,000.00 for sewer engineering and rehabilitation (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $40,000.00 for Senior Center burst pipe repairs (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $100,000.00 for DPW Highway Garage upgrades (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $16,720.00 for a Regional Housing Coordinator (5-0)
• Took no position on Article 23 for a ballot tabulator after a motion to approve failed (3-2)

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The Zoning Bylaw Review Committee will meet to review previous minutes and discuss accessory apartments. The meeting is focused on these specific zoning considerations.

• Discussion of accessory apartments

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council will meet via Zoom to approve February minutes and review a town report summary. The agenda also includes discussions regarding social media, quarterly newsletters, and recruitment efforts.

• Approval of February minutes
• Review of Town Report Summary
• Discussion on social media and quarterly newsletter
• Recruitment and community priority survey discussion
• Financial updates

The Council agreed to move from a reimbursement model to direct payment for the next grant cycle. Members also discussed strategies for new member recruitment and the upcoming community priority survey.

• Approved February 16, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to switch from reimbursement to direct payment for the next grant cycle
• Submitted the Auburn Annual Report to the Town

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board Working Audit & Finance Committee is meeting to review and discuss the FY'24 budget. The committee intends to create a public summary and vote on a recommendation for the full board's April 2023 meeting.

• Review and discussion of FY'24 Budget
• Vote to recommend FY'24 budget for Advisory Board approval

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and vote on the FY2024 Operating and Capital budgets. The body will also vote on transfer requests for multiple town departments and the Youth Commission.

• FY2024 Operating and Capital Budgets for Bay Path, DPW, Solid Waste, and Finance Department
• Vote on Youth Commission
• Transfer requests for Fire/Rescue Department
• Transfer requests for Police Department and Finance Dept.
• Transfer requests for DPW, Development and Inspectional Services, and Public Services

The Finance Committee recommended approval for multiple FY2024 budget appropriations, including the DPW, Solid Waste, and Pensions and Benefits. The committee also approved several fund transfers for the Police Department, Pakachoag Golf Course, and Cable and Community Television Division.

• Recommended FY24 budget appropriation for Bay Path of $1,506,889.00 (7-0)
• Recommended FY24 budget appropriation for DPW of $6,869,780.00 (7-0)
• Recommended FY24 budget appropriation for Solid Waste of $1,433,694.00 (6-0)
• Recommended FY24 budget appropriation for Finance Department of $784,613.00 (6-0)
• Recommended FY24 budget appropriation for Maturing Debt of $4,278,750.00 (6-0)
• Recommended FY24 budget appropriation for Interest of $817,233.00 (6-0)
• Recommended FY24 budget appropriation for Pensions and Benefits of $13,939,743.00 (6-0)
• Recommended FY24 budget appropriation for Youth Commission of $144,012.00 (6-0)

Planning Board

The Auburn Planning Board will hold public hearings on several development proposals, including a self-storage facility, a warehouse/distribution center, a drive-thru restaurant, an industrial addition, and a two-lot subdivision. The board will also discuss a bond reduction, a solar array extension, and a modification for Flexcar, and will decide on minutes and other business.

• Site plan review for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street (Kimley-Horn and Associates)
• Site plan review for warehouse/distribution at 190 Washington Street (Eastland Partners Inc.)
• Special permit for drive-thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street (Mass Ten Enterprises LLC)
• Site plan review for addition at 12-14 Sword Street (Nordic Industrial Properties)
• Definitive subdivision for two-lot development at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue (Robert Lemansky)

The Board approved a subdivision at Hampton Street and Eaton Avenue and a site plan for Nordic Industrial Properties. Several other public hearings for commercial projects were continued to April 11, 2023. The Board also approved a bond reduction for Commerce Drive and a solar array extension.

• Approved subdivision at Hampton Street & Eaton Avenue (5-0)
• Approved site plan for Nordic Industrial Properties at 12-14 Sword Street with dumpster screening requirement (5-0)
• Reduced Commerce Drive bond to $650,000 (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved one-year extension for Henshaw Street Solar Array (5-0)
• Approved minor site plan modifications for Flexcar, LLC at 525 Washington Street (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street to April 11 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for warehouse facility at 190 Washington Street to April 11 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for drive-thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street to April 11 (5-0)

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Planning Board will hold a public hearing to conduct a Site Plan Review for a proposed self-storage facility. The board will consider the application submitted by Kimley-Horn and Associates.

• Site Plan Review for a self-storage facility at 319 Washington Street (Map 42 Parcel 31)

Select Board

The Select Board will consider the Annual Town Meeting Warrant and hold public hearings regarding utility pole locations and the FY22 audit. The board will also vote on grant authorizations for heat resiliency and police hiring.

• Public hearing on National Grid and Verizon New England pole locations on Prospect Street
• Vote to approve the May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting Warrant
• Vote to authorize and expend CMRPC DLTA Grant for Regional Heat Resiliency Plan
• Vote to authorize application and accept 2023 COPS Hiring Program grant funds
• Outdoor and open air licenses for Faith Baptist Church and Friends of the Auburn Public Library

The Select Board approved the format for the May 2 Annual Town Meeting Warrant and authorized a new utility pole on Prospect Street. The Board also granted event licenses for Lemansky Park and the Public Library and scheduled a joint meeting to discuss a $78.3M public safety facility estimate.

• Approved May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting Warrant format (4-0)
• Approved National Grid and Verizon petition for pole installation on Prospect Street (4-0)
• Approved Outdoor and Open Air licenses for Faith Baptist Church at Lemansky Park and waived fee (4-0)
• Approved Open Air license for Friends of the Auburn Public Library book sales and waived fee (4-0)
• Voted to schedule joint meeting with Finance Committee and School Committee regarding public safety facility costs (4-0)
• Tabled creation of Agricultural Committee pending Zoning Bylaw Review Committee opinion (4-0)
• Continued CMRPC grant authorization to next meeting (4-0)
• Approved minutes of February 27 and March 13, 2023

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding Notices of Intent and a Request for Determination of Applicability. The body is reviewing proposed construction, landscaping, and utility work near protected zones.

• Notice of Intent for commercial building and parking expansion at 12-14 Sword Street
• Notice of Intent for hardscaping project at 23 Brook Street
• Request for Determination for inground pool installation at 12 Sunnyside Road
• Notice of Intent for septic repair and well installation at 5 Sunrise Avenue
• Discussion of Route 20 Project at 50 and 190 Washington St.

The commission issued a negative determination of applicability for a pool installation and approved a septic system repair with specific conditions. A hardscaping project at 23 Brook Street remains under an enforcement order, and a commercial building hearing was continued.

• Issued negative determination of applicability for inground pool at 12 Sunnyside Road (6-0-0)
• Approved standard order of conditions plus special conditions 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, and 11 for septic system repair at 5 Sunrise Avenue (6-0-0)
• Deferred issuing order of conditions for hardscaping project at 23 Brook Street until April 12, 2023
• Maintained enforcement order for property at 23 Brook Street
• Continued hearing for commercial building at 12-14 Sword Street to April 12, 2023 (6-0-0)
• Approved letter acknowledging insignificant project change for 54 Prospect St (6-0-0)

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to review a Notice of Intent for property improvements. The body will consider a request regarding septic system repairs and the installation of a well and waterline.

• Notice of Intent for 5 Sunrise Avenue (Map 2 Parcel 4) regarding septic system repair, a 1,000-gallon pump chamber, and a new well and waterline

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and vote on the FY2024 Operating and Capital budgets. The committee will also vote on transfer requests for several town departments.

• FY2024 Budgets for Bay Path, Auburn School Department, and Norfolk Agricultural
• Transfer requests for Fire/Rescue Department
• Transfer requests for Police Department
• Transfer requests for Department of Public Works
• Transfer requests for Department of Development and Inspectional Services and Department of Public Services

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and vote on the FY2024 Operating and Capital budgets. The committee will also vote on transfer requests for several town departments.

• FY2024 Budgets for Bay Path, Auburn School Department, and Norfolk Agricultural
• Transfer requests for Fire/Rescue Department
• Transfer requests for Department of Public Works
• Transfer requests for Norfolk Agricultural
• Transfer requests for Police, Finance, Public Services, and Development and Inspectional Services departments

The Finance Committee recommended approval for the FY2024 School Department and Norfolk Agricultural budgets. The committee also approved multiple fund transfers for public works, fire/rescue, and sewer services. Action on the Bay Path budget was postponed.

• Recommended approval of $30,132,276.00 for FY2024 School Department (6-0)
• Recommended approval of $54,355.00 for FY2024 Norfolk Agricultural (6-0)
• Approved DPW transfers for sweeper brooms, library bridge bidding, and vehicle repairs (6-0)
• Approved $14,500.00 in sewer transfers for fuel, training, chemicals, and pump repairs (6-0)
• Approved Fire/Rescue transfers for building maintenance, protective gear, and overtime (6-0)
• Approved $4,557.00 transfer from Reserve Fund to Norfolk Agricultural for transportation costs (6-0)
• Postponed action on the Bay Path budget (6-0)
• Approved March 1, 2023 meeting minutes

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board Personnel Committee is holding a working meeting. The body will discuss and direct a recruitment firm regarding the hiring of a new Administrator.

• Discussion and direction of recruitment firm for new Administrator

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The WRTA Advisory Board has scheduled a meeting to be held via conference call and webinar. The specific agenda items are currently listed as TBA.

• Agenda: TBA

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider two special permit requests. Both applicants are seeking permits for home occupations under Section 3.9.1.2 of the Auburn Zoning Bylaw.

• Special Permit request for home occupation at 5 Sherman Avenue (Jeffrey Erickson)
• Special Permit request for home occupation at 3 Jay Street (Chelsea Chesna)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Auburn Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on two special permit requests for home occupations. Additionally, the board will consider a 12-month extension request for a property on Henshaw Street.

• Special permit request for home occupation at 5 Sherman Avenue (Jeffrey Erickson)
• Special permit request for home occupation at 3 Jay Street (Chelsea Chesna)
• 12-month extension request for 1 Henshaw Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved special permits for home occupations at 5 Sherman Avenue and 3 Jay Street. A 12-month extension for 1 Henshaw Street was also approved. The board approved minutes from five previous 2022 hearings.

• Approved special permit for home occupation at 5 Sherman Avenue with condition that water heaters be stored out of sight (4-0-1)
• Approved special permit for home occupation at 3 Jay Street with condition of no on-street parking (5-0-0)
• Approved 12-month extension request for 1 Henshaw Street
• Approved minutes from 07/21/22 hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes from 09/15/22 hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes from 10/20/22 hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes from 11/17/22 hearing (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes from 01/19/22 hearing (5-0-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for two special permit requests. Both applicants are seeking permits for home occupations under Section 3.9.1.2 of the Auburn Zoning Bylaw.

• Special Permit request for home occupation at 5 Sherman Avenue (Jeffrey Erickson)
• Special Permit request for home occupation at 3 Jay Street (Chelsea Chesna)

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to discuss and vote on several administrative plans and financial records. The board will also address a response to an Open Meeting Law complaint.

• Response to Open Meeting Law Complaint
• Language Access Plan
• Fair Housing Marketing Plan
• Reasonable Accommodation Modification Plan
• January and February 2023 Check Registers

The Auburn Housing Authority approved three administrative plans regarding language access, fair housing marketing, and reasonable accommodations. The board also approved the check registers for January and February 2023 and a response to an Open Meeting Law complaint.

• Approved response to Open Meeting Law complaint (5-0)
• Approved Language Access Plan, Fair Housing Marketing Plan, and Reasonable Accommodation Modification Plan (5-0)
• Approved January 2023 check registers (5-0)
• Approved February 2023 check registers (5-0)

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss school choice enrollment for 2023-2024 and a site-manager stipend. The body will also review the year-to-date budget report, budget transfers, and the FY 2022 end-of-year audit report.

• School Choice Enrollment for 2023-2024
• Site-manager Stipend
• FY 2022 End of Year Audit Report
• Year to Date Budget Report and Budget Transfers

The School Committee approved the acceptance of 30 new school choice students for the middle and high schools. Members also voted to increase the site manager stipend and approved a list of budget transfers.

• Approved acceptance of 30 new school choice students (unanimous)
• Increased site manager stipend from $15/hour to $20/hour (unanimous)
• Approved budget transfers dated March 8, 2023 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from 3/1/23 (unanimous)
• Adjourned into executive session to discuss bargaining position with non-union personnel (unanimous)

Upper Blackstone Clean Water

The Board of Directors will meet to approve a financial warrant and review cash and revenue reports. The agenda includes updates on integrated planning, capital projects, and effluent summaries. The board will also address the retirement of member Robert Moylan.

• Warrant for $547,555.55 (03/03/2023)
• Integrated Planning and Capital Projects updates
• February Effluent Summary Report
• Retirement of Robert Moylan from Board of Directors

Finance Committee

The Auburn Finance Committee is meeting to review and vote on the FY2024 operating and capital budgets for several town departments, including Public Services, Senior Center, Library, and others. They will also vote on transfer requests for the Department of Public Works, Development and Inspectional Services, Fire/Rescue, Police, and Public Services. The meeting is hybrid, with in-person and remote options.

• FY2024 budget review for Department of Public Services, Senior Center/Elder Affairs, Library, Cable and Community Television, Veterans, Town Clerk/Elections, IT, Development & Inspectional Services, Zoning Board of Appeals, Solid Waste
• Vote on transfer requests for DPW, Development and Inspectional Services, Fire/Rescue, Police, and Public Services
• Hybrid meeting with in-person at Auburn Town Hall and remote via GoToMeeting

The Finance Committee voted to recommend several budget appropriations for FY2024 as presented by the Town Manager. The committee also reviewed Capital Improvement Program (CIP) requests for various departments. All recommendations passed with unanimous 6-0 votes.

• Recommended $187,607.00 budget for Senior Center/Elder Affairs (6-0)
• Recommended $694,180.00 budget for Library (6-0)
• Recommended $187,381.00 budget for Cable and Community Television (6-0)
• Recommended $213,187.00 budget for Town Clerk (6-0)
• Recommended $50,244.00 budget for Elections (6-0)
• Recommended $334,209.00 budget for Information Technology Department (6-0)
• Recommended $784,855.00 budget for Department of Development and Inspectional Services (6-0)
• Recommended $14,472.00 budget for Zoning Board of Appeals (6-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings for several site plan approvals and special permits. The body will also discuss a bond reduction for Commerce Drive and a solar array extension on Henshaw Street.

• Site plan approval for a warehouse/distribution facility at 190 Washington Street
• Special permit for a drive-thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street
• Site plan approval for commercial/industrial additions at 12-14 Sword Street
• Definitive subdivision plan for two single-family homes at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue
• Discussion on Commerce Drive bond reduction

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss a traffic study and legal opinion regarding Pinehurst Avenue. The board will also consider a vote to accept grant funds from the Stanton Foundation for dog park improvements.

• Traffic Study Report on Pinehurst Avenue
• Legal Opinion from Town Counsel regarding Pinehurst Avenue
• Vote to authorize and expend Stanton Foundation grant funds for Dog Park capital improvements
• Development Agreement
• Chapter 90 Funds allocation letter from the Governor's Office

Select Board

The Auburn Select Board is meeting to discuss a traffic study and legal opinion on Pinehurst Avenue, consider accepting a Stanton Foundation grant for dog park improvements, and receive updates on the Perry Place development and a WooSox event. The agenda also includes routine items like gift acceptances and a flag committee vacancy discussion.

• Traffic Study Report on Pinehurst Avenue
• Legal Opinion from Town Counsel regarding Pinehurst Avenue
• Vote to Authorize, Accept and Expend Grant Funds from the Stanton Foundation for Capital Improvements to the Dog Park
• Development Agreement Update - Perry Place
• WooSox Event - Auburn Night at Polar Park, Wednesday June 21, 2023

The Select Board authorized the acceptance of grant funds for the dog park and requested a new traffic study for Pinehurst Avenue. The board also accepted the minutes from the February 13, 2023 meeting.

• Approved acceptance and expenditure of up to $37,500 from the Stanton Foundation for dog park capital improvements (4-0)
• Approved request for Police Chief to conduct another traffic study on Pinehurst Avenue and for Town Manager to discuss crosswalks with Town Engineer (4-0)
• Tabled discussion on Flag Committee vacancy until April
• Accepted minutes of February 13, 2023

Board of Health

The Auburn Board of Health will hold a hybrid public meeting on March 9, 2023. The agenda includes a hearing on a property deemed unfit for human habitation, a waiver request for a donation bin at the Auburn Mall, and a dog hearing appeal. The board will also review open communicable disease cases.

• 6:00 PM Hearing - Unfit for Human Habitation - 101 Elmwood Street
• 6:05 PM Auburn Mall Donation Bin waiver request
• 6:10 PM Dog Hearing Appeal – 12 Willis Street by Dena Daoust
• Review of open communicable disease cases

The Board approved a waiver allowing the Auburn Mall to exceed the standard limit of three donation bins per parcel. The Board also modified a previous dangerous dog order to remove the muzzle requirement for one specific dog under certain conditions.

• Approved waiver for Auburn Mall to have four donation bins (2-0)
• Approved appeal to remove muzzle requirement for dog 'Champ' when off-property with Dena Daoust, Collyn Daoust, or a licensed trainer (2-0)
• Required 'Champ' to continue behavioral training and muzzle acceptance training (2-0)
• Required the Town of Auburn to be indemnified of responsibility for the dogs (2-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 1/31/23 (2-0)
• Continued the 'Unfit for Human Habitation' hearing for 101 Elmwood Street to the next meeting

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to approve meeting minutes and check registers for January and February 2023. The board will also discuss and vote on a series of administrative and operational policies.

• Vote to approve check registers for January 2023
• Vote to approve check registers for February 2023
• Vote on 504 Policy Statement, Alcoholic Beverages Policy, and Anti-Discrimination Policy
• Vote on Bad Debt Write Off, Capitalization, and Cash Management policies
• Vote on Blood Born Diseases, Ceiling Fan, Check Signing, and Common Area policies

The board unanimously approved a series of administrative policies including cash management and anti-discrimination. Votes to approve check registers for January and February 2023 were tabled.

• Approved Minutes of February 1, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved Minutes of February 27, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved 504, Alcoholic Beverage, Anti Discrimination, Bad Debt Write Off, Capitalization, Blood Born Diseases, Cash Management, Check Signing, and Common Area policies (5-0)
• Tabled approval of January 2023 check registers
• Tabled approval of February 2023 check registers

Pakachoag Elementary School's School Council

The Pakachoag Elementary School Council will meet via Zoom to discuss school operations. The agenda includes a review of the previous month and a look at the month ahead.

• Updated draft of Strategic Plan
• Safety Program follow-up

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding three separate property developments. The body will also review an extension of conditions and an enforcement order.

• Notice of Intent for commercial building and parking expansion at 12-14 Sword Street
• Notice of Intent for hardscaping project at 23 Brook Street
• Request for Determination for inground pool installation at 12 Sunnyside Road
• Request for Extension of Order of Conditions for 1 Henshaw Street
• Enforcement Order for 5 Sunrise Avenue

The commission continued three hearings regarding projects at Sword Street, Brook Street, and Sunnyside Road to March 22, 2023. An Extension of Order of Conditions was issued for 1 Henshaw Street. Site walks were scheduled for March 11, 2023, for properties at Brook Street, Sunnyside Road, and Washington Street.

• Continued hearing for 12-14 Sword Street to March 22, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 23 Brook Street to March 22, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 12 Sunnyside Road to March 22, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Approved Extension of Order of Conditions for 1 Henshaw Street (5-0-0)

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to review two property requests. The body will consider a hardscaping project and the installation of an inground pool.

• Notice of Intent for hardscaping, retaining wall, and patio at 23 Brook Street
• Request for Determination of Applicability for an inground pool at 12 Sunnyside Road

Finance Committee

The Auburn Finance Committee met on March 8, 2023, to review and vote on the FY2024 operating and capital budgets for the Police, Fire/Rescue, Emergency Management, and General Services departments. The committee also voted on transfer requests involving the Department of Public Works, Development and Inspectional Services, Fire/Rescue, Police, and Public Services. The agenda included standard procedural items such as minutes and adjournment.

• Vote on FY2024 Operating and Capital Budgets for Police, Fire/Rescue, Emergency Management, and General Services
• Vote on transfer requests for Department of Public Works, Development and Inspectional Services, Fire/Rescue, Police, and Public Services

The Finance Committee voted to recommend approval of the FY2024 budget appropriations for the Police Department, Public Safety Dispatch, Fire/Rescue Department, Emergency Management, and General Services. The recommendations include funding for additional dispatchers and a new police officer.

• Recommended $4,708,132.00 Police Department budget (5-0)
• Recommended $871,728.00 Public Safety Dispatch budget (5-0)
• Recommended $4,570,424.00 Fire/Rescue Department budget (5-0)
• Recommended $17,500.00 Emergency Management budget (5-0)
• Recommended $1,702,889.00 General Services budget (5-0)
• Approved February 15, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The Auburn Zoning Bylaw Review Committee is meeting to discuss a sign bylaw for the May Town Meeting and accessory apartments. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and any new business. This is a working session, not a final decision-making public hearing.

• Discussion of Sign Bylaw for May Town Meeting
• Discussion of Accessory Apartments
• Approval of minutes from 2/06/2023 meeting

The committee reviewed and addressed comments regarding proposed sign bylaw amendments. Members also discussed expanding the accessory apartment bylaw, including square footage and lot size requirements, but no final decisions were made.

• Adopted or noted Caleb Moody’s comments on proposed sign bylaw amendments
• Tabled discussion on accessory apartment bylaw expansion to a future meeting

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority's Working Personnel Committee will meet to discuss and possibly select a recruitment agency. No public comment will be taken.

• Discuss and possibly select a recruitment agency
• No business from the public or public comment

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees will vote on an updated Collection Policy and discuss Reading Room Renovations. They will also receive the Director's Report and the monthly budget report, and consider a letter from the Finance Committee regarding Town Meeting support for the library.

• Vote on APL Policies and Procedures: Collection Policy
• Discussion of Reading Room Renovations
• Presentation of APL Budget Report
• Letter to the Board from Finance Committee re Town Meeting support
• Conflict of Interest Discussion

School Committee

The Auburn School Committee will review the FY 24 budget and the School Department Warrant Articles for the May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting. The body will also discuss transportation contract extensions for FY24 and FY25.

• FY 24 Auburn Public Schools Budget
• FY24 and FY25 Transportation Contract Extension
• FY 24 French River Oil Bid Results
• School Department Warrant Articles for May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting
• Year to Date Budget Report and Budget Transfers

The committee noted that IA and Secretary contracts are ready for signature with a 2% annual salary increase for 3 years and that custodians ratified their new contract. The FY24 Budget was brought forward to the select board at $100,000 less than the school's proposal. The committee also announced the hiring of a new food service director and a new payroll person.

• Agreed to 2% annual salary increase for 3 years for IA and Secretary contracts
• Noted custodians ratified their new contract
• Brought FY24 Budget to select board ($100,000 less than proposed)
• Hired new food service director (starting March 20, 2023)
• Hired new payroll person

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the FY2024 budgets for several town departments and offices. The committee will also vote on transfer requests for multiple municipal departments.

• Overview of FY2024 Budgets for Moderator, Select Board, Town Manager, Finance Committee, Reserve, Law, Human Resources, and Town Hall
• Vote on transfer requests for Department of Public Works
• Vote on transfer requests for Department of Development and Inspectional Services
• Vote on transfer requests for Fire/Rescue and Police Departments
• Vote on transfer requests for Executive Office of Town Manager, Finance Department, and Department of Public Services

The Finance Committee recommended approval for budget appropriations for eight town departments and offices. The committee also approved a $2,900 salary adjustment transfer for the Town Planner position.

• Approved $2,900 transfer for Town Planner salary adjustment (6-0)
• Recommended $296.00 budget for Moderator (6-0)
• Recommended $10,737.00 budget for Select Board (6-0)
• Recommended $446,432.00 budget for Executive Office of Town Manager (6-0)
• Recommended $1,015.00 budget for Finance Committee (6-0)
• Recommended $310,000.00 budget for Reserve Fund (6-0)
• Recommended $145,000.00 budget for Law Department (6-0-1)
• Recommended $299,738.00 budget for Human Resources (7-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings for several site plan approvals and special permits. The board will also discuss bond reductions and solar array extensions.

• Site Plan Approval for a warehouse/distribution facility at 190 Washington Street
• Special Permit for a drive thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street
• Site Plan Approval for commercial/industrial structures at 12-14 Sword Street
• Definitive Subdivision Plan for two single family homes at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue
• Discussion on Commerce Drive bond reduction and Henshaw Street Solar Array Extension

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Planning Board will hold a public hearing to conduct a Site Plan Review for a proposed warehouse and distribution facility. The application was submitted by Eastland Partners Inc.

• Site Plan Review for warehouse/distribution facility at 190 Washington Street, Lot 1 (Map 34 Parcel 4)

Select Board

The Select Board will consider transmitting proposed zoning bylaw amendments for signs and floodplain districts to the Planning Board. The board will also vote to transmit the FY2024 budget to the Finance Committee and approve a regional housing coordinator services agreement.

• Vote to transmit proposed zoning bylaw amendments regarding signs and floodplain districts
• Vote to transmit FY2024 Budget to the Finance Committee
• Vote to approve agreement with Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Agency for Housing Coordinator Services
• Drainlayer License: Morris Excavating Co. of Leicester, MA
• Drainlayer License: RSI Construction LLC of Charlton, MA

The Select Board approved the transmission of the FY2024 budget and proposed zoning bylaw amendments. The board also approved a regional housing coordinator agreement and set dates for the annual town meeting and election.

• Transmitted FY2024 proposed budget of $79,407,909.31 to Finance Committee (4-0)
• Transmitted proposed zoning bylaw amendments for Signs and Floodplain District to Planning Board (4-0)
• Approved agreement with CMRPC for regional housing coordinator services (3-1)
• Set May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting for 6:00 P.M. (4-0)
• Set May 16, 2023 Annual Town Election hours from 8:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. (4-0)
• Approved drainlayer licenses for Morris Excavating Co. and RSI Construction LLC (4-0)
• Accepted $2,500 gift from Whitetails Unlimited for Police K9 Gift Account (4-0)
• Declared Police Cruiser Car 15 (2015 Ford Explorer) as surplus for disposal (4-0)

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will discuss and vote on several items including approving a certificate of completion for a roof project, completing a window project, and repaying rent to Pakachoag flood victims. The board will also vote on fiscal year end reports and hear the Executive Director's report.

• Discussion & Vote to Approve Certificate of Completion for Roof Project
• Discussion & Vote to Approve Completion of Window Project
• Discussion & Vote to Approve Repayment of Rent to Pakachoag Flood Victims
• Discussion & Vote to Approve Fiscal Year End Reports

The Auburn Housing Authority approved the certificate of completion for a roof project and the repayment of February 2023 rent to flood victims. The board also approved the fiscal year end reports.

• Approved Certificate of Completion for the Roof Project (4-0)
• Approved repayment of February 2023 rent to flood victims (4-0)
• Approved Fiscal Year End Reports (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding commercial development and wetlands applicability. The body will also review a certificate of compliance and enforcement orders.

• Notice of Intent for commercial building and parking expansion at 12-14 Sword Street
• Request for Determination of Applicability for Tesla at 385 Southbridge Street
• Request for Certificate of Compliance for 92 Tinker Hill Road
• Enforcement Orders for 23 Brook Street and 5 Sunrise Avenue

The commission issued a negative determination of applicability for a project at 385 Southbridge Street. A certificate of compliance was issued for 92 Tinker Hill Road, while a hearing for 12-14 Sword Street was continued.

• Issued negative determination of applicability for Tesla at 385 Southbridge Street (4-0-0)
• Issued certificate of compliance for 92 Tinker Hill Road
• Continued hearing for Nordic Industrial Properties LLC at 12-14 Sword Street to March 8, 2023 (4-0-0)
• Continued enforcement order matter for 5 Sunrise Avenue to March 8, 2023

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to determine if a project by Tesla is subject to the Wetlands Protection Act or municipal wetlands bylaws. The hearing concerns the property located at 385 Southbridge Street.

• Request for Determination of Applicability for Tesla at 385 Southbridge Street (Map 033 Parcel 119)

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on February 22, 2023, to consider a Request for Determination of Applicability from Tesla for property at 385 Southbridge Street. The hearing will determine whether the project is subject to the Wetlands Protection Act or Auburn's Wetland Bylaw.

• Applicant: Tesla for Request for Determination of Applicability
• Property: 385 Southbridge Street, Map 033 Parcel 119
• Hearing to decide if project falls under Wetlands Protection Act or town wetland bylaw

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board is meeting on February 16, 2023, but the agenda is listed as TBA. The meeting will be held via Zoom due to extended pandemic-era policies. Public comments are accepted by email, phone, or Zoom with 48-hour notice.

• Agenda: TBA
• Meeting held via Zoom due to pandemic-era policies (S3007)
• Public comments accepted by email, phone, or Zoom with 48-hour notice

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The WRTA Advisory Board is holding a meeting on February 16, 2023. The agenda for the meeting is listed as TBA.

Swanson Road Intermediate School Council

The Swanson Road Intermediate School Council is meeting to discuss the newly updated Auburn Public Schools strategic plan and review the school handbook. The meeting also includes district initiative updates and other business.

• APS Strategic Plan Overview - newly updated
• Handbook Review Conversation
• District Initiative Updates

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The WRTA Advisory Board will discuss using CARES Act money to extend fare suspension through fiscal year 2024, filling a vacancy in the Treasurer's Office, and improving Bus Tracker reliability. The board will also receive a report on conflict-of-interest forms and an update on service changes due to driver availability and FY '24 budget development.

• Feasibility of using CARES Act money to extend fare suspension through FY '24
• Filling a vacancy in the Treasurer's Office
• Progress on improving Bus Tracker system reliability
• Report on Advisory Board members completing Conflict of Interest Law forms
• Update on service changes due to driver availability and start of FY '24 budget development

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will meet to review FY2022 sewer use abatement applications for specific properties. The agenda also includes reviewing drainlayer license applications and discussing board membership status.

• FY2022 Sewer Use Abatement Application: 403 Oxford Street
• FY2022 Sewer Use Abatement Application: 203-A Pakachoag Street
• Drainlayer License Application: Morris Excavating Co.
• Drainlayer License Application: RSI Construction LLC
• Board of Sewer Commissioners Membership Status

The Board approved two sewer use abatement applications for properties on Oxford Street and Pakachoag Street. It also recommended the Board of Selectmen issue drainlayer licenses to two companies. Additionally, the Board agreed that future drainlayer license reviews can be handled by the Sewer Superintendent.

• Approved sewer bill abatement for 403 Oxford Street to a minimum of $100.00 per installment
• Approved FY2022 sewer bill abatement for 203A Pakachoag Street down to 6,350 cubic feet of water usage
• Recommended issuance of Drainlayer License to Morris Excavating Company
• Recommended issuance of Drainlayer License to RSI Construction LLC pending validation of reference letters
• Decided drainlayer license reviews may be recommended by the Sewer Superintendent rather than the Board
• Approved January 12, 2023 meeting minutes

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss FY2022 sewer use abatement applications and consider drainlayer license applications from Morris Excavating Co. and RSI Construction LLC. The board will also review its membership status. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as approval of minutes and setting the next meeting date.

• FY2022 Sewer Use Abatement Applications
• Drainlayer License Application: Morris Excavating Co.
• Drainlayer License Application: RSI Construction LLC
• Board of Sewer Commissioners Membership Status

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council will meet to review and vote on pending reimbursement items, discuss updates on documentation and 2023 events, and address administrative tasks including Google Drive updates, email access, and the town annual report contribution.

• Review and vote on pending reimbursement items
• Followup on events scheduled for 2023
• Update on Google Drive and social media
• ACC contribution to the town annual report 2022
• Login access for ACC email and need for official email address

The Council approved the reimbursement of a deferred project for Timothy Van Egmond. Members also discussed updating process documentation, recruiting new council members, and managing a shared calendar for funded events.

• Approved January 19, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved reimbursement for Timothy Van Egmond project using $42.19 from remaining funds and $382.81 from administrative fund (Unanimous)

Municipal Scholarship Committee

The Auburn Municipal Scholarship Committee will meet to approve minutes from November 30, 2022, discuss scholarship contributions and the 2022 award to recipient Terry Kwamo, and review several scholarship-related forms including criteria, worksheet, application, and rubric.

• Discussion of scholarship money for 2022 recipient Terry Kwamo
• Review of Auburn Municipal Scholarship Criteria form
• Review of Auburn High School Honor Scholarship Worksheet
• Review of Auburn Municipal Scholarship Application
• Review of Auburn Municipal Scholarship Rubric

The committee awarded a $1,000 scholarship to Terry Kwamo following verification of enrollment at Boston University. The committee also set the 2023 application deadline and approved the scoring rubric. Updates to most press releases and discussions on contributions were postponed.

• Approved $1,000 scholarship award to Terry Kwamo (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 30, 2022 meeting
• Set scholarship application due date for Thursday, April 13th
• Approved the rubric for scoring scholarship applications
• Postponed updates to press releases (except March 2023 release)
• Postponed discussion on scholarship contributions

Finance Committee

The Auburn Finance Committee will meet on February 15, 2023, at 6:30 P.M. to vote on transfer requests from the Department of Public Works, Department of Development and Inspectional Services, Fire/Rescue Department, Police Department, Executive Office of Town Manager, Finance Department, Department of Public Services, General Services, Town Hall, Information Technology, Town Clerk, Elections, and Human Resources. The committee will also receive a budget schedule update and vote on minutes from prior meetings.

• Vote on transfer requests from 11 departments including Public Works, Police, and Fire/Rescue
• Budget schedule update
• Approval of meeting minutes

The Finance Committee approved a series of budget transfers for public safety, public works, and town administration. These funds were moved to cover contractual obligations, salary adjustments, equipment repairs, and operational deficits. The committee also accepted the minutes from the November 16, 2022 meeting.

• Approved $7,400 transfer for Public Health salary adjustments (6-0)
• Approved $61,669 in transfers for Fire/Rescue education, overtime, and maintenance (6-0)
• Approved $9,121.92 for Police Department VMware security update (6-0)
• Approved multiple Police Department transfers for contractual obligations and overtime (6-0)
• Approved $38,029 in DPW transfers for building maintenance, fleet, and cemetery heating (6-0)
• Approved $14,000 in transfers for Pakachoag Golf Course merchandise, food, and banking charges (6-0)
• Approved $13,422.21 in Sewer Division transfers for COLA, union increases, and training (6-0)
• Approved $35,350 in transfers for Town Manager and Town Accountant retirement/resignation payouts (6-0)

School Committee

The Auburn School Committee will meet on February 15, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. to discuss unfinished business including the APS Strategic Plan and an update on 23-24 bus applications. New business items include a residency checkpoint and setting 23-24 School Committee meeting dates. The committee will also receive a Teaching and Learning Report and a Business/Financial Report covering the year-to-date budget and transfers.

• Unfinished Business: APS Strategic Plan
• Update on 23-24 Bus Applications
• New Business: Residency Check Point
• 23-24 School Committee Meeting Dates
• Business/Financial Report: Year to Date Budget Report, Budget Transfers

Upper Blackstone Clean Water

The board will consider warrants totaling $1,028,918.58, review capital projects, and discuss union negotiations with Public Employee Local Union 272 in executive session. They will also receive updates on pretreatment, flow, and effluent reports.

• Warrants totaling $1,028,918.58
• Executive session for collective bargaining strategy with Local Union 272
• Capital projects update from Deputy Director Mike Andrus
• 2022 Pretreatment Annual Report and industries in significant noncompliance
• Remote meeting extension set to expire March 31, 2023

Youth Commission

The Youth Commission will meet to discuss a contract with the Town of Auburn. The body will also hold a discussion regarding conflicts of interest.

• Contract with Town of Auburn
• Conflict of interest discussion

Finance Committee

The Auburn Finance Committee will meet on February 15, 2023, at 6:30 PM to vote on transfer requests from several town departments, including Public Works, Police, Fire, and others. The meeting will be held in hybrid format, with in-person attendance at Town Hall and remote participation available. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from a prior meeting.

• Vote on transfer requests from Department of Public Works
• Vote on transfer requests from Fire/Rescue and Police Departments
• Vote on transfer requests from Finance Department and Executive Office of Town Manager
• Vote on transfer requests from Information Technology, Town Clerk, and Human Resources
• Approval of meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a special permit for a drive-thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street and a site plan approval for commercial/industrial structures at 12-14 Sword Street. The board will also discuss a bond reduction for Commerce Drive.

• Special Permit hearing for a drive-thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street
• Site Plan Approval for an addition and new structure at 12-14 Sword Street
• Discussion regarding Commerce Drive bond reduction
• Decision regarding Tesla at 385 Southbridge Street

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss the timeline for the May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting warrant. The board will also consider a request for a public safety fiber network and a representative for the Housing Production Plan update.

• Vote to open the May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting warrant
• Vote to close the Annual Town Meeting Warrant on March 6, 2023
• Public safety fiber network request through ARPA by Fire Chief
• Flammable Storage Permit name and address changes for 17 St. Mark Street and 209 Washington Street
• Appointment of a Select Board member to the Housing Production Plan Update working group

The Select Board approved funding for a public safety communications network and set the timeline for the May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting warrant. The Board also approved two flammable storage permit updates and a $300 gift to the Fire/Rescue Department.

• Authorized $500,000 in ARPA funds for Public Safety Fiber Network (3-0)
• Voted to open the warrant for the May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting (3-0)
• Voted to close the Annual Town Meeting Warrant on March 6, 2023 (3-0)
• Approved owner name and address change for flammable storage permit at 17 St. Mark Street (3-0)
• Approved owner name and address change for flammable storage permit at 209 Washington Street (3-0)
• Approved $300 gift to the Fire/Rescue Department from Deanna and John White (3-0)
• Referred the Housing Production Plan Update working group volunteer request to the Planning Board (3-0)
• Accepted the minutes of January 9, 2023

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings for several construction and demolition projects. The body is reviewing notices of intent and requests for determination regarding wetlands and municipal ordinances.

• Notice of Intent for commercial building and parking expansion at 12-14 Sword Street
• Notice of Intent for single-family home demolition and reconstruction at 31 Bylund Ave
• Request for Determination of Applicability for project at Whitman Bailey Drive
• Notice of Intent for pump station replacement at Warren Road
• Enforcement orders for 23 Brook Street and 5 Sunrise Avenue

The commission issued a negative determination of applicability for Windmill Estates Condominium Community and approved two Notices of Intent with standard orders and special conditions. Several other matters were continued to future meetings.

• Issued continuance for Nordic Industrial Properties LLC at 12-14 Sword Street (5-0-0)
• Issued standard order with special conditions 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, and 11 for 31 Bylund Ave (5-0-0)
• Issued negative determination of applicability for Windmill Estates Condominium Community at Whitman Bailey Drive (5-0-0)
• Issued standard order with special conditions 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, and 11 for Warren Road pump station replacement (5-0-0)
• Continued 23 Brook Street matter to February 22, 2023
• Continued 5 Sunrise Avenue matter to February 22, 2023

Zoning Bylaw Review Committee

The committee is meeting to review bylaws regarding signs and flooding for the May Town Meeting. The agenda also includes a discussion on accessory apartments.

• Sign Bylaw for May Town Meeting
• Flood Bylaw for May Town Meeting
• Accessory Apartments

The committee accepted the minutes from three previous meetings. Members discussed sign and flood bylaws for the May town meeting and deferred a discussion on accessory apartment verbiage to a future date.

• Accepted meeting minutes from 8/1/22, 9/12/22, and 10/17/22
• Tabled accessory apartments restrictive verbiage discussion

Energy Committee

The Energy Manager will present updates on the Municipal Aggregation/Community Choice Program, EV charging stations, electric vehicle status, and the FY23 Green Communities Grant. The meeting also includes discussion of the NMCA Schedule Z and general items.

• Municipal Aggregation/Community Choice Program update
• EV Charging Station update
• Electric Vehicles status report
• Green Communities Grant, FY23
• NMCA Schedule Z discussion

Pakachoag Elementary School's School Council

The Pakachoag Elementary School's School Council is meeting to discuss the month in review and ahead, review the student handbook, and discuss field trips. The meeting will be held via Zoom.

• Review of student handbook
• Discussion of field trips

Auburn Library Board of Trustees

The Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to vote on the library's Collection Policy and review the APL budget report. The board will also discuss lessons learned from the APLSP and consider next steps on a letter of support for the library from the Finance Committee and Town Meeting.

• Vote on APL Policies and Procedures: Collection Policy
• Presentation of APL Budget Report
• Discussion of APLSP Lessons Learned
• Letter to the BOT re support for the APL: Finance Committee, Town Meeting
• Update on Strategic Plan and progress toward meeting goals

The Board approved a motion for the Chair to meet with the Town Manager to discuss resource concerns raised in a letter from member Matthew Toth. The Board also approved previous meeting minutes and continued discussions on a draft Collections Policy.

• Approved motion for Chair to meet with Town Manager regarding resource concerns (4-1)
• Approved November 2, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved December 12, 2022 joint meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred discussion of monthly expenditure reports
• Removed Strategic Planning lessons learned from the agenda

School Committee

The Auburn School Committee will discuss the Superintendent Entry Plan findings and an updated draft of the APS Strategic Plan. The body will also review budget reports and a contract for the Bryn Mawr Sprinkler System.

• Bid award and contract for Phase 3 of the Bryn Mawr Sprinkler System
• Updated Draft APS Strategic Plan
• Superintendent Entry Plan Findings
• Year to Date Budget Report and Budget Transfers
• 2023-2023 School Year Calendar

The School Committee approved the 2023-2024 school year calendar, which increases the number of half days to five. The committee also awarded a contract for the Bryn Mawr Sprinkler System Phase 3 and approved budget transfers.

• Approved 2023-2024 school year calendar (majority vote: 2 yes, 1 no, 1 abstention)
• Approved $114,220 contract with Carlysle Engineering for Bryn Mawr Sprinkler System Phase 3 (unanimous)
• Approved budget transfers dated January 26, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 1/18/23 (unanimous)

Auburn Housing Authority

The Auburn Housing Authority will meet to approve minutes from January 4, 2023, and review the check registers for December 2022. The meeting also includes an Executive Director's report.

• Vote to approve January 4, 2023 minutes
• Vote to approve December 2022 check registers
• Executive Director's Report

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review regional grants, appointments, and updates on COVID kit distribution at various town locations. The meeting also includes an office update regarding permits, licenses, and budgets, as well as a review of open communicable disease cases.

• Regional grants and appointments
• COVID kit distribution update
• Permit and license renewal period
• Communicable diseases case review

The Board of Health appointed staff for public health services and tobacco control enforcement. The board also designated representatives for the Region 2 Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition.

• Appointed South Central Mass Partnership for Public Health staff for services, inspections, and enforcement (3-0)
• Appointed Board of Health Tobacco Control Alliance Staff for services and policy enforcement (3-0)
• Appointed Darlene Coyle and Jordan Bruso as representatives to Region 2 Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition (3-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for 7/21/22 (3-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for 11/15/22 (2-0, 1 abstention)

Upper Blackstone Clean Water

The board is reviewing financial reports including a $3,132,041.79 warrant from January 17, 2023, and the FY24 budget. The meeting also includes updates on capital projects, integrated planning, and workforce COVID-19 cases.

• $3,132,041.79 warrant (01/17/2023)
• FY24 Budget BAI#1 and BAI#2
• General Services Contract update
• December Effluent Summary Report
• Integrated Planning Update

Pakachoag Elementary School's School Council

The Pakachoag Elementary School Council is meeting to review monthly activities and discuss the student handbook. The council will also hold a discussion regarding field trips.

• Student Handbook review
• Field Trip discussion

Bryn Mawr Elementary School's School Council

The Bryn Mawr School Council will review minutes from the December 14, 2022 meeting and receive an update on school happenings. The main discussion topic is planning family guest speakers, including potential topics, format (in-person or virtual), and timing. Council members will also have open discussion before concluding the meeting.

• Review of 12/14/22 Minutes
• Update from Bryn Mawr School Happenings
• Topic: Family guest speakers — topics, format, and timing

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding several Notices of Intent and a Request for Determination of Applicability. The body will review projects involving commercial construction, home reconstruction, and infrastructure replacement.

• Notice of Intent for commercial building and parking expansion at 12-14 Sword Street
• Notice of Intent for demolition and reconstruction of a home at 31 Bylund Ave
• Request for Determination of Applicability for property at Whitman Bailey Drive
• Notice of Intent for pump station replacement at Warren Road
• Enforcement orders for 23 Brook Street and 5 Sunrise Avenue

The Conservation Commission issued an enforcement order for 5 Sunrise Avenue after determining the property is under its jurisdiction. All other hearings regarding property developments and public works were continued to the February 8, 2023 meeting.

• Issued enforcement order for 5 Sunrise Avenue (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 12-14 Sword Street to February 8, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 31 Bylund Ave to February 8, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for Whitman Bailey Drive to February 8, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing for Warren Road pump station replacement to February 8, 2023 (5-0-0)

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on January 25, 2023, to consider two applications. One is a Request for Determination of Applicability for a condominium project at Whitman Bailey Drive. The other is a Notice of Intent for a pump station replacement at Warren Road.

• 7:10 PM: Windmill Estates Condominium Community seeks determination on whether project at Whitman Bailey Drive is subject to Wetlands Protection Act or local wetland bylaws.
• 7:15 PM: Town of Auburn DPW requests Notice of Intent for pump station replacement at Warren Road.

Economic Development Committee

The Auburn Economic Development Committee will meet to receive updates from the Economic Development Coordinator on business and grant activities. The agenda includes discussion of the commercial tax rate and updates to the Housing Plan and Hazard Mitigation Plan.

• Economic Development Coordinator report on business and grant updates
• Discussion of commercial tax rate
• Housing Plan and Hazard Mitigation Plan updates
• Upcoming term expirations

The committee reviewed completed business developments from 2022 and noted a denied $50,000 REDO grant for signage and park upkeep. Members discussed the potential use of ARPA funds and expanding allowed uses in Drury Square and the Auburn Mall. No formal votes were taken by the committee during this meeting.

Planning Board

The Planning Board is conducting public hearings on several special permits and site plan approvals. The board will also discuss a bond reduction for Commerce Drive and provide an update on the Housing Production Plan.

• Special Permit for a drive-thru restaurant at 824 Southbridge Street
• Special Permit for 8 charging stations at 385 Southbridge Street
• Site Plan Approval for commercial/industrial structures at 12-14 Sword Street
• Definitive Subdivision Plan for two single-family homes at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue
• Discussion regarding Commerce Drive bond reduction

The Planning Board approved a special permit for Tesla Inc. to install eight charging stations. Several other public hearings were continued to future dates, and two members were appointed as CMRPC delegates.

• Approved special permit for 8 Tesla charging stations at 385 Southbridge Street (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for Starbucks drive-thru at 824 Southbridge Street to Feb 14, 2023 (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for Nordic Industrial Properties at 12-14 Sword Street to Feb 14, 2023 (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for G. L. McKinstry Trust subdivision at Claire Drive and Linda Avenue to Feb 28, 2023 (4-0)
• Appointed Dwarakesh Nallon as CMRPC delegate (4-0)
• Appointed Todd Kirrane as CMRPC delegate (4-0)
• Approved December 13, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold public hearings regarding licenses for Flexcar, LLC and Apple New England LLC. The board is also deciding on several key personnel appointments and the use of ARPA funds for municipal employees. Additionally, the board will discuss FY2024 budget priorities and the Housing Production Plan update.

• Public hearing for Flexcar, LLC Motor Vehicle Class II and Auto Repair Licenses at 525 Washington Street
• Public hearing for Apple New England LLC change of manager at 680 Southbridge Street
• Vote on Intermunicipal Agreement with Town of Oxford for wastewater transportation
• Potential vote on premium pay for municipal employees using ARPA funds
• Votes to appoint or confirm Assistant Town Manager/HR Director, Town Accountant, and Chief Financial Officer

The Select Board appointed new town officials and approved several business licenses. The Board also authorized grant applications for the Fire Department and allocated ARPA funds for municipal employee premium pay and ambulance shifts.

• Confirmed Dori A. Vecchio as Assistant Town Manager/Human Resources Director (4-0)
• Appointed Karen S. Harnois as Town Accountant and Chief Financial Officer (4-0)
• Approved Motor Vehicle Class II and Auto Repair licenses for Flexcar, LLC (4-0)
• Approved change of manager to Jessica Gene Rooney for Applebee’s (4-0)
• Approved Drainlayer License for G.H. Excavation, Inc. (4-0)
• Approved Intermunicipal Agreement with Town of Oxford for wastewater transportation (4-0)
• Approved ARPA funds for municipal employee premium pay (3-1)
• Authorized AFG and SAFER grant applications for the Fire Department (4-0)

Swanson Road Intermediate School Council

The Swanson Road Intermediate School Council will meet to recap and gather feedback on winter events, review the School Improvement Plan, and discuss the school handbook. Updates on district initiatives will also be provided.

• Recap and feedback on Winter Events
• Review of the School Improvement Plan
• Handbook review conversation
• District initiatives updates

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The WRTA Advisory Board will meet on January 19, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. via Zoom. The agenda is listed as TBA. The board will accept public comments by email, phone, or Zoom participation with 48-hour notice.

• Meeting held via Zoom due to extended pandemic-era policies
• Agenda: TBA
• Public comments accepted with 48-hour notice via email, phone, or Zoom

Auburn Cultural Council

The Auburn Cultural Council will meet to discuss grant decisions, financial updates, and the process for tracking approved grants and reimbursements. The meeting will also cover login access for the council's official email and documentation for the next grant cycle.

• Grant decisions - summary and general discussion
• Login access for ACC official email address
• Tracking approved grants and reimbursement process
• Financial updates
• Documentation for next grant cycle

The council approved the minutes from the January 3, 2023 meeting. Members discussed grant reimbursement delays, social media access, and the process for recruiting new members. No new grant awards were decided during this session.

• Approved January 3, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Public Hearing Notices

The Auburn Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on three special permit applications. The requests involve an alteration to a non-conforming structure, an accessory apartment, and a lot impervious coverage in the Aquifer Zone II.

• James Reinke seeks a special permit for work on a non-conforming structure at 150 Oxford Street North.
• Atef Wahba requests a special permit for an accessory apartment at 18 Coolidge Street.
• Kimley-Horn & Associates requests a special permit for more than 15% impervious lot coverage in the Aquifer Zone II at 319 Washington Street.

Youth Commission

The Youth Commission will meet to hold discussions regarding the budget and appropriations. The body will also discuss conflicts of interest.

• Budget/appropriation discussion
• Conflict of interest discussion

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to consider four special permit requests. These include requests for accessory apartments, structural alterations, and impervious surface limits.

• Special Permit for accessory apartment at 11 Nancy Drive
• Special Permit for alteration of non-conforming structure at 150 Oxford Street North
• Special Permit for accessory apartment at 18 Coolidge Street
• Special Permit for more than 15% impervious lot in Aquifer Zone II at 319 Washington Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved three special permits and accepted one application withdrawal. Decisions included allowing a self-storage project to exceed impervious surface limits in an aquifer zone and approving two accessory apartments.

• Approved special permit for 34% impervious surface at 319 Washington Street (4-1-0)
• Approved special permit for accessory apartment at 18 Coolidge Street (5-0-0)
• Approved special permit for alteration of non-conforming structure at 150 Oxford Street North (5-0-0)
• Accepted withdrawal of accessory apartment application for 11 Nancy Drive (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes from 12/15/22 hearing (5-0-0)

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss the 2023-24 school year calendar and school choice approvals. The body will also review budget reports and updates on the Student Opportunity Act.

• 23-24 School Year Calendar
• 23-24 School Choice Approval
• Hanover Theater Grant
• Year to Date Budget Report and Budget Transfers
• Superintendent's Mid Year Goals Update

The committee voted to continue the school choice program for the 2023-2024 school year and established a new policy review sub-committee. A vote on the 2023-2024 school year calendar was tabled. The committee also approved participation in a theater grant and accepted several donations.

• Approved continuation of school choice program for 2023-2024 (unanimous)
• Created School Committee Policy Subcommittee consisting of Jessie Harrington, Meghan McCrillis, and the Superintendent (unanimous)
• Approved participation in the Arthur M. & Martha R. Pappas Foundation grant for Hanover Theater (unanimous)
• Tabled vote on 2023-2024 School Year Calendar (4-0, 1 refrain)
• Accepted monetary donation from Mr. & Mrs. Robert Browning and furniture donations from Fallon Health (unanimous)
• Approved budget transfers dated January 10, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 1/4/23 (unanimous)

Board of Sewer Commissioners