Southbridge public meetings in 2025

Retirement Board

The Southbridge Retirement Board will accept minutes from prior meetings, discuss health insurance for retirees, and consider several personnel and financial actions. Members will vote on superannuation retirements, a transfer of accumulated deductions, a payroll warrant totaling $562,001.98, and the 2026 budget. The agenda also includes reorganizing the board leadership for 2026.

• Approve superannuation retirement of Maria Reyes (Educational Assistant) effective Feb 7 2026 with 38.3333 service years
• Approve superannuation retirement of Kenneth Wright (Custodian) effective Mar 1 2026 with 26.3333 service years
• Approve transfer of accumulated deductions for Cathy Evans to Berkshire County Retirement System (total 5.5833 years of service)
• Approve Warrant W122025 for $562,001.98: Retiree Payroll $420,612.71, Payroll End Checks $80,908.27, Accounts Payable $60,481.00
• Discuss and vote to approve the 2026 budget

The Southbridge Retirement Board approved the superannuation retirements of Maria Reyes and Kenneth Wright, the transfer of accumulated deductions for Cathy Evans, the corrected December warrant, and the 2026 budget. The board tabled a discussion on retiree health insurance enrollment options for further research. Reorganization votes kept Wilfrid Cournoyer as Chair and Julie Pefia as Vice-Chair.

• Approved superannuation retirement of Maria Reyes, Southbridge Public Schools/Educational Assistant, effective Feb 7, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved superannuation retirement of Kenneth Wright, Bay Path Vocational High School/Custodian, effective Mar 1, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of accumulated deductions for Cathy Evans to Berkshire County Retirement System (unanimous)
• Approved December warrant W122025 with corrected amount of $561,669.95 (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 budget (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on retiree health insurance enrollment policy for further research
• Re-elected Wilfrid Cournoyer as Chairperson (abstained; all others in favor)
• Re-elected Julie Pefia as Vice-Chairperson (abstained; all others in favor)

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will consider a series of votes, including authorizing contracts, fund transfers, and grant applications. Items include a $2,447,953.90 contract for River/Crane Street Phase I, demolition and acquisition projects on Mill Street and Elm Street, and funding for a playground and a grocery store loan. The council will also discuss a financial management review and other operational matters.

• Award a $2,447,953.90 contract to Ludlow Construction for River/Crane Street Phase I construction
• Transfer $500,000 from the Capital Stabilization Fund to Project #64150 for demolition of 18‑30 Mill Street
• Approve a $102,000 Change Order 1 to Costello Dismantling Company for additional separation work at 18‑30 Mill Street
• Approve a $14,709 Community Development Block Grant loan to Nancy Perez for Veras Perez Grocery at 101 Central Street
• Accept a $25,000 Legislative Earmark for the Marcos Rios Memorial Playground

The Southbridge Town Council approved a $2,447,953.90 contract with Ludlow Construction for River/Crane Street Phase II, along with numerous other items including a $500,000 transfer for demolition of 18-30 Mill Street and a $102,000 change order (7-1). The council also authorized a financial management review, approved several grants and appointments, and referred the Demolition Delay Bylaw to the Planning Board.

• Approved $2,447,953.90 contract to Ludlow Construction for River/Crane Street Phase II (unanimous)
• Approved $500,000 transfer from Capital Stabilization Fund for demolition of 18-30 Mill Street (unanimous)
• Approved $102,000 change order to Costello Dismantling for 18-30 Mill Street (7-1, Kelly opposed)
• Authorized Financial Management Review request through DLS (unanimous)
• Approved $350,000 transfer for 39 Elm Street property acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved $246,500 proposal from Tighe and Bond for Hatch Brook Reservoir dredge design (unanimous)
• Referred Demolition Delay Bylaw to Planning Board for review (unanimous)
• Approved $14,709 CDBG loan to Veras Perez Grocery (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to process tax-related applications and reports. The session includes reviews of FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and Chapter Land applications.

• Abatement/Exemption reports
• FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices
• Chapter Land application

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will review old business items, including matters at 87 Golf Street, Lebanon Hill Road, and a request for a Certificate of Compliance for 292 Cournoyer Boulevard (Lot 9). A continuation public hearing will address the Notice of Intent for a VHB by New England Power Company to refurbish the U173 and W123 overhead electric transmission lines from the Snow Street substation to the Carpenter Hill substation in Charlton. Commissioners will also discuss and vote on municipal charge liens and consider proposed rules and regulations.

• Continuation public hearing on Notice of Intent for VHB by New England Power Co. to refurbish U173 and W123 transmission lines (Snow Street to Carpenter Hill substation)
• Old Business item: 87 Golf Street
• Old Business item: Lebanon Hill Road
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – 292 Cournoyer Boulevard (Lot 9)
• Discussion and vote on municipal charge liens

The Conservation Commission approved several motions, all passing unanimously. It recorded municipal liens totaling $22,550 against four of Tracy Atwater’s properties for unpaid wetlands fines. It also issued a Certificate of Compliance for 292 Cournoyer Boulevard, conditioned on removal of original erosion‑control materials, and continued a public hearing on a New England Power Company transmission line project to the January 8 meeting.

• Accepted minutes of the December 4 meeting (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 292 Cournoyer Blvd, requiring removal of erosion‑control materials (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on New England Power Company transmission line project to Jan 8 (unanimous)
• Recorded municipal liens totaling $22,550 across four Atwater properties for wetlands fines (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board announced that the scheduled December 18, 2025 meeting was cancelled. No agenda items will be considered at this time. The next Advisory Board meeting is set for January 15, 2026.

• Cancellation of the December 18, 2025 Advisory Board meeting
• Next Advisory Board meeting scheduled for January 15, 2026

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning & Development Subcommittee is reviewing several funding and appointment recommendations for the Town Council. Discussions include the reallocation of CDBG grant funds and a loan for a local business.

• Budget amendment to move $210,000 within the CDBG FY22-23 grant
• Commercial Rehabilitation Deferred Payment Loan of $14,709 for Veras Perez Grocery at 101 Central Street
• Grant extension of FY22/23 grant to June 30, 2026
• Acceptance of a $25,000 Legislative Earmark for Marcos Rios Memorial Playground
• Appointment of Bridgette Bachand to the Economic Development Commission

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The Education & Human Services Subcommittee will review and discuss a proposal to apply for the Massachusetts Community Biodiversity Grant Program. Members may entertain a motion to recommend the application to the Town Council and authorize the Town Manager to sign related documents. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as call to order and roll call.

• Review and discuss application for Massachusetts Community Biodiversity Grant Program

Department of Public Works Subcommittee

The Public Works Subcommittee will review and discuss several recommendations for the Town Council. Items include appointing Michael Magnet as Maintenance Man/Equipment Operator, approving a $246,500 dredge‑permitting contract for Hatch Brook Reservoir #3, and awarding a $2,447,953.90 contract to Ludlow Construction for River/Crane Street Phase II. Additional items cover forest‑harvest bidding, winter‑hire equipment agreements, and trench‑regulation updates.

• Recommend Town Council approve Michael Magnet’s appointment as Maintenance Man/Equipment Operator for DPW.
• Recommend approval of Tighe and Bond proposal for Hatch Brook Reservoir #3 Dredge‑Permitting and Design Services, $246,500, funded from Raw Water Improvement account #420000-530000-64485.
• Recommend award of contract to Ludlow Construction, $2,447,953.90 (Base plus Alternate 1), for construction of River/Crane Street Phase II.
• Recommend approval of Pirner Logging bid for forest harvesting within the watershed, $23,322.
• Recommend Town Manager enter agreements with Pioppi Construction, Inc. and Jeff Bruso for 2025‑2026 winter‑hire snow plowing and removal equipment.

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will approve the October 15, 2025 meeting minutes and provide an opportunity for public comment. It will release Proposed Amendment #2 to the FFY 2026‑2030 TIP Highway Project Listing for a 21‑day public review period. The agenda also includes releasing proposed new rural and urban freight corridors for a 21‑day public review and presenting updates on Safe Streets for All, the Vernon Connected Transportation Study, and the Housing and Transportation Study.

• Approval of October 15, 2025, Meeting Minutes
• Potential Action: Release Proposed Amendment #2 to the FFY 2026‑2030 TIP Highway Project Listing for 21‑day Public Review and Comment Period
• Potential Action: Release Proposed New Rural and Urban Freight Corridors for 21‑day Public Review and Comment Period
• Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Update Presentation
• Vernon Connected Transportation Study Update Presentation

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees will meet to review financial and library reports. The board is discussing building updates and the formulation of an action plan based on the FY23-FY28 Long Range Plan.

• Ceiling project update
• Bus Tracker Kiosk
• Elevator Inspection Certificate
• Electrical update from 12/10/25
• FY23-FY28 Long Range Plan action plan

Board of Health

The Southbridge Board of Health will approve the October meeting minutes and consider any trash commitments. A citizens' forum will be held, followed by a presentation from Open Sky (Stephanie Cyr) on the Open Space and Recreation Plan. The board will also receive a communicable disease update before adjourning.

• Approve October minutes
• Citizens’ forum
• Presentation from Open Sky — Stephanie Cyr: Open Space and Recreation Plan
• Communicable Disease update
• Approve trash commitments, if any

Liquor Licensing Board

The Southbridge Liquor Licensing Board will accept the October 16, 2025 meeting minutes, hear a citizens’ forum, receive updates from the liquor agent, approve one‑day liquor licenses for four John Parish events in December 2025 and January 2026, and sign the 2026 liquor license for Cohasse Golf Course Inc. The board will also discuss the date of its next meeting before adjourning.

• Accept meeting minutes from October 16, 2025
• Approve one‑day liquor licenses for John Parish events on Dec 4, Dec 5, Dec 6, 2025 and Jan 31, 2026
• Sign 2026 liquor license for Cohasse Golf Course Inc.
• Board member discussion of next meeting date

The Liquor Licensing Board approved Maqui’s request to lift its operating‑hour restrictions. It adopted a new email‑based method for approving one‑day liquor licenses and approved four specific one‑day events. The board also scheduled a public hearing on the Cohasse Golf Course license transfer and accepted the October 16, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved Maqui’s request to remove hour restrictions (motion moved by Chair Daniels, seconded by Grabowski)
• Approved email‑based signature method for one‑day liquor licenses (motion moved by Grabowski, seconded by Vice Chair Wanderlear)
• Approved ODLL‑25‑15 One‑Day license for LaSalle St. John Parish Chili/Chowder Cook Off (moved by Fontaine, seconded by Grabowski)
• Approved ODLL‑25‑13 One‑Day license for LaSalle St. John Parish Festival of the Trees Fundraiser (verbal approval previously recorded)
• Approved ODLL‑25‑11 One‑Day license for LaSalle St. John Parish Friday Night Lights Fundraiser (verbal approval previously recorded)
• Approved ODLL‑25‑14 One‑Day license for LaSalle St. John Parish Social Fundraiser (verbal approval previously recorded)
• Approved scheduling of a public hearing on Cohasse Golf Course license transfer for Jan 22 2026 (moved by Fontaine, seconded by Grabowski)
• Accepted the minutes of the Oct 16 2025 meeting (motion by Fontaine, seconded by Grabowski)

School Committee

The Southbridge School Committee will review and approve the minutes from the November meeting. It will recognize Principal Sarah Houle as the 2026 MSAA Middle School Principal of the Year. The committee will discuss progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations for building committee capacity.

• Approve minutes from the November meeting
• Recognize Southbridge Middle School Principal Sarah Houle as 2026 MSAA Principal of the Year
• Discussion on progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations to build committee capacity
• Citizens’ Forum/Public Input
• Set next meeting date for January 13, 2026

School Committee

The Southbridge School Committee will review and approve the November meeting minutes. It will hold a Citizens’ Forum for public input and recognize Southbridge Middle School Principal Sarah Houle as the 2026 MSAA Principal of the Year. The committee will discuss progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations and set the next meeting for January 13, 2026.

• Review and approve minutes from the November meeting
• Citizens’ Forum/Public Input
• Recognition of Southbridge Middle School Principal Sarah Houle as 2026 MSAA Principal of the Year
• Discussion on progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations
• Next scheduled meeting set for January 13, 2026

Charter Review Committee

The Southbridge Charter Review Committee will meet on Dec 8, 2025 at 4:30 PM in the Veterans Room. Members will discuss the charter review process and next steps, and consider scheduling future meetings. The meeting also includes routine items such as call to order, roll call, and election of a recording secretary.

• Discuss charter review process and next steps
• Discuss scheduling of future meetings

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign abatement and exemption reports. The board is also scheduled to process FY26 real estate exemption applications and Chapter Land applications.

• Review and signing of Abatement/Exemption reports
• Review and signing of FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices
• Review and signing of Chapter Land application

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will meet to review progress on tree marking and the municipal tree inventory. The board will also discuss examples of tree ordinances and bylaws, including the responsibilities of a Tree Warden.

• Review of municipal tree inventory
• Discussion of tree ordinance and bylaw examples
• Review of Tree Warden and Urban Forester responsibilities
• Update on ROW tree marking progress
• Discussion of community outreach via website and Facebook

Trail Committee

The Southbridge Trails Committee will review and accept the November meeting minutes. It will receive updates on the QVRT/E‑bike policy and on the Cole Forest/Heritage Trail. The agenda also includes a Citizen’s Forum and a Trail Committee members forum.

• Review and acceptance of November meeting minutes
• Update on QVRT/E‑bike policy discussion
• Update on Cole Forest/Heritage Trail
• Citizen’s Forum
• Trail Committee members forum

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding electric transmission line refurbishment and subdivision remediation. The body will also review a certificate of compliance request and discuss proposed rules and regulations.

• Public Hearing: VHB for New England Power Company asset refurbishment on U173 and W123 lines from Snow Street to Carpenter Hill substation
• Continuation of Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for violation remediation and subdivision plan at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive
• Hearings for 87 Golf Street and Lebanon Hill Road
• Request for Certificate of Compliance for 292 Cournoyer Boulevard (Lot 9)
• Discussion of proposed rules and regulations

The commission accepted the November 20 minutes and moved to agenda item #6. It postponed discussion of the Certificate of Compliance for 292 Cournoyer Boulevard and continued that matter to the Dec 18 meeting. The public hearing on the VHB transmission line project was extended to Dec 18, and the Pleasant Hills hearing was extended to Jan 8. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted minutes of Nov 20 meeting (5-0)
• Moved to agenda item #6 (5-0)
• Tabled discussion on Certificate of Compliance for 292 Cournoyer Blvd (5-0)
• Extended public hearing on VHB transmission line project to Dec 18 (5-0)
• Extended public hearing on Pleasant Hills project to Jan 8 (5-0)
• Continued certificate matter to Dec 18 meeting (5-0)
• Postponed rules and regulations discussion to next meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Public Pole Hearings

The Town Manager will hold a public hearing on December 4, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in the George Parent Meeting Room, Town Hall. The hearing will consider a petition filed by Massachusetts Electric Company d/b/a National Grid and Verizon New England to locate poles, wires, and fixtures on Chapin Street. The petition seeks permission to install one JO pole about 280 feet northeast of the Dresser Street and Chapin Street intersection for a residential service request. Residents may speak at the hearing.

• Petition by Massachusetts Electric Company d/b/a National Grid and Verizon New England to install 1 JO pole on Chapin St
• Proposed location: approximately 280 ft northeast of the centerline of the Dresser St and Chapin St intersection
• Installation includes poles, wires, and necessary fixtures for residential service
• Public hearing scheduled for Dec 4, 2025, 10:00 a.m. at Town Hall, 41 Elm St

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a special permit hearing filed by Frances Alvarez to allow multifamily residential use in an Office Research zone at 476 Worcester St, per Table 1 of the Southbridge Zoning Bylaw. The agenda also includes a site‑plan review for the municipal animal shelter at 0 Guephwood Rd and a discussion of ongoing zoning bylaw matters. Additional items are a staff update and a board forum.

• Special permit hearing – multifamily residential at 476 Worcester St (filed by Frances Alvarez)
• Site‑plan review – 0 Guephwood Rd, Municipal Animal Shelter
• Zoning Bylaw Review (ongoing business)
• Staff Update
• Board Forum

The board approved the minutes from the November 19 meeting. It approved the site plan for a municipal animal shelter at 0 Guelphwood Rd. It voted to continue the public hearing on a special permit for 476 Worcester St until the January 7 meeting.

• Approved minutes of Nov 19 (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved site plan for municipal animal shelter at 0 Guelphwood Rd (5-0)
• Continued special permit hearing for 476 Worcester St until Jan 7 (5-0)

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Dec. 3, 2025 at 6:45 PM in the G.A.R. Hall, lower level of Town Hall, 41 Elm St. The hearing will consider a special permit application filed by Frances Alvarez to allow multifamily residential use in an Office Research zone at 476 Worcester St, Map 15, Lot 129, owned by Staples Realty Trust. Interested persons may appear at the hearing to be heard. The application and plan are on file with the Town Clerk for review.

• Special permit application by Frances Alvarez for multifamily residential in Office Research zone at 476 Worcester St, Lot 129 (Staples Realty Trust)
• Public hearing scheduled for Dec 3, 2025, 6:45 PM, G.A.R. Hall, lower level, Town Hall, 41 Elm St

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will consider and accept the minutes from the November 17, 2025 meeting. Councilors will vote to approve applying for the Massachusetts Housing Partnership Affordable Housing Trust Fund Intensive Technical Assistance Program and authorize the Town Manager to sign related paperwork. The Demolition Delay Bylaw will receive its first reading. The meeting will also include subcommittee reports, a citizens forum, and discussion of the next meeting date.

• Vote to approve applying for Massachusetts Housing Partnership Affordable Housing Trust Fund Intensive Technical Assistance Program and allow Town Manager signature
• First reading of the Demolition Delay Bylaw
• Subcommittee reports from Public Works, Education and Human Services, General Government, Planning and Development, and Protection of Persons and Property
• Citizens Forum
• Discussion of next Town Council meeting date (December 15, 2025)

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning and Development Subcommittee will meet to discuss the role of the Redevelopment Authority. Members will also consider recommending that the Town Council apply for the Massachusetts Housing Partnership Affordable Housing Trust Fund Intensive Technical Assistance Program.

• Urban Renewal Plan Training 101 presentation by Redevelopment Authority Chair Andrew Murch
• Potential development of Southbridge Affordable Housing Trust
• Application for Massachusetts Housing Partnership Affordable Housing Trust Fund Intensive Technical Assistance Program

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review financial and library reports. The agenda consists of procedural items and new business.

The trustees accepted the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting. They approved a $1,000 stipend for Chess Club mentors for 2026, contingent on attendance and outreach reporting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted October 28, 2025 meeting minutes (passed)
• Approved $1,000 stipend for Chess Club mentors for 2026 (passed)
• Adjourned meeting (passed)

Southbridge Airport Commission

The Southbridge Airport Commission will review and vote on the minutes from the October 27, 2025 meeting, hear the Airport Manager’s report, and receive updates on the new T‑hangar construction, repairs from the recent lightning storm, and the airport diner. The meeting also includes a member forum and the scheduling of the next meeting.

• Review and vote to approve minutes from 10/27/25
• Airport Manager’s report
• New T‑hangar construction update
• Remaining repairs/issues from lightning storm
• Diner update

Retirement Board

The Southbridge Retirement Board met on November 24, 2025 to consider several routine items. Members voted to accept minutes from prior meetings, to approve individual retirement actions, and to approve a payroll warrant of $531,135.34 covering retiree payroll, end checks, and accounts payable. The board also discussed participation in PEVY 2026 and reviewed budget and schedule matters.

• Accept minutes from the October 30, 2025 Retirement System Members’ Forum and related forums
• Table discussion on whether the Board will participate in PEVY 2026
• Approve the superannuation retirement of Jacques Kallanian, Town of Southbridge Fire Fighter‑Lieutenant, effective March 1 2026 with 32.3333 credible service years
• Approve the rollover of accumulated deductions for Shannen Sherman, former Bay Path Vocational High School/Nursing Academy employee, 0.8333 years of service
• Approve warrant W112025 for $531,135.34: Retiree Payroll $426,973.06; Payroll End Checks $77,040.53; Accounts Payable $27,121.75

The board accepted the October 30 minutes and added a vote on PEVY 2026 participation to the agenda. Members approved participation in the PEVY 2026 investments, approved retirement and deduction transactions for three retirees, and approved warrant W112025 for $531,135.34. The meeting schedule was set for December 30, 2025 and the meeting was adjourned at 10:04 a.m.

• Accepted October 30, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Added PEVY 2026 participation as agenda item (unanimous)
• Approved participation in PEVY 2026 investments (unanimous)
• Approved retirement of Jacques Kallanian, Fire Fighter‑Lieutenant (unanimous)
• Approved rollover of deductions for Shannen Sherman (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of deductions for Michelle Burrell to Worcester Retirement System (unanimous)
• Approved warrant W112025 for $531,135.34 payroll (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will consider routine agenda items, including accepting minutes from prior meetings and holding an open taxpayer forum. It will review, discuss, and sign any abatement or exemption reports that have been submitted. The board will also review, discuss, and sign the FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices, as well as a Chapter Land application. Any other new business not anticipated before the agenda will be addressed.

• Accept minutes from previous meeting(s)
• Open Taxpayer forum
• Review, discuss, and sign Abatement/Exemption report(s)
• Review, discuss, and sign FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices
• Review and sign Chapter Land application

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority will review monthly expense reports and program updates. The board is scheduled to vote on writing off vacated tenant balances and approving a security camera project. Members will also consider a self-assessment analysis regarding Limited English Proficiency.

• Vote on Lowest Responsible Bidder for Project 278074 Southbridge Housing Authority Security Cameras
• Vote on Four-Factor Self-Assessment Analysis Regarding Limited English Proficiency (LEP)
• Vote to write off vacated tenants accounts receivable balances
• Review of EOHLC Public Housing Notices 2025-14 and 2025-15
• Review of accounts payable for November 1, 2025-November 18, 2025

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Notice of Intent filed by McClure Engineering for building an animal shelter and associated utilities on riverfront property at 0 Guelphwood Road (Parcel 179). The hearing is scheduled for Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 5:45 p.m. in the McCann Room of Town Hall, 41 Elm Street. Members of the public may appear to speak, and copies of the project plans are available at the Town Clerk’s Office and online.

• Public hearing on Notice of Intent for animal shelter construction at 0 Guelphwood Road (Parcel 179)
• Submission prepared by McClure Engineering on behalf of the Town of Southbridge
• Location of project: riverfront area at 0 Guelphwood Road
• Legal advertisements to be published in the Telegram and Gazette by Nov 12, 2025
• Project plans available at the Southbridge Town Clerk’s Office and the MNPPA website

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will hold three public hearings. The first addresses a Notice of Intent by McClure Engineering for building an animal shelter and utilities at 0 Guelphwood Road. The second concerns a Notice of Intent by Expedited Engineering for CAAR Development, LLC to remediate wetlands and a subdivision plan at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street. The third reviews a Request for Determination of Applicability for the town DPW to clean up contaminated soil at 185 Guelphwood Road.

• Public Hearing – Notice of Intent – McClure Engineering – construction of an animal shelter and utilities at 0 Guelphwood Road (Map 22 Parcel 179)
• Public Hearing – Notice of Intent – Expedited Engineering for CAAR Development, LLC – wetlands remediation and subdivision plan at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street (Map 20 Parcels 4, 79-K, 79-L)
• Public Hearing – Request for Determination of Applicability – Town DPW – cleanup of contaminated soil at 185 Guelphwood Road (Map 14 Parcel 1)

The Conservation Commission held a public hearing on the proposed animal shelter at 0 Guelphwood Road and unanimously approved the standard Order of Conditions with added requirements to report any nesting activity and to cover open spoils overnight. The commission also issued a Negative Determination of Applicability for the PCB‑contaminated soil cleanup on Guelphwood Road, citing EPA jurisdiction. All motions were adopted unanimously.

• Accepted minutes of November 6 meeting (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on animal shelter project (unanimous)
• Issued Order of Conditions with additional nesting and spoil‑cover requirements (unanimous)
• Continued Pleasant Hills public hearing until Dec 4, 6:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Issued Negative Determination of Applicability for Guelphwood Road PCB cleanup (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:18 p.m. (unanimous)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will open the meeting, approve the minutes from the September 18, 2025 meeting, receive an administrator’s report, hear business from the public, and address any other items directed by the chair. No specific contracts, rezoning, or budget items are listed.

• Approval of minutes from September 18, 2025
• Administrator’s report (Rickman)
• Business from the public
• Other administration items
• Potential vote to adjourn

The board opened the meeting, took a roll call, and listed agenda items including approval of prior minutes, public comments, and updates from staff. No votes, approvals, or other actions were documented in the record. The meeting was then adjourned.

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will hold a hybrid meeting on November 19, 2025, to review zoning bylaws and an open space and recreation plan. The meeting will be held at the GAR Hall in the Town Hall Lower Level at 41 Elm Street.

• Review of Zoning Bylaw
• Open Space and Recreation Plan update
• Board Forum session

The Planning Board voted to approve the minutes from the November 5 meeting. The motion passed with five members in favor. The Board then voted to adjourn the November 19 meeting, also with five members in favor. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved November 5 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned November 19 meeting (5-0)

Historical Commission

The Southbridge Historical Commission will begin with a call to order, then send members to the General Government Subcommittee meeting to answer questions while that subcommittee reviews the Demo Delay By-Law. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Attend General Government Subcommittee meeting to address questions on the Demo Delay By-Law

Recreation Committee

The Southbridge Recreation Committee will meet on November 18, 2025 at the Southbridge Community Center. The agenda includes a citizen forum, a member forum, and discussions on upcoming summer concerts and a potential bike‑rental program. The director will make announcements before the meeting adjourns.

• Discuss Upcoming Summer Concerts
• Discuss Potential Bike Rental Program
• Citizen Forum
• Member Forum
• Director’s Announcements

School Committee

The Southbridge School Committee will review and approve the minutes from its October meeting. It will hear public input, a Southbridge Cares presentation, and a budget update from the interim superintendent. The board will also discuss progress on meeting DESE plan expectations and vote to elect a subcommittee chair.

• Review and approve minutes from the October meeting
• Citizens’ Forum/Public Input
• Southbridge Cares presentation
• Interim Receiver/Superintendent budget and encumbered figures presentation
• Vote for subcommittee chair

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will consider multiple votes, including confirming Pam Chenevert as Library Director, authorizing a distribution easement for National Grid at 129 Worcester Street, and adopting a single tax rate (classification factor 1.0) for fiscal year 2026. Additional items include tax exemption proposals, community‑center use agreements, parking regulation updates, and funding decisions for playground improvements and demolition work. The council will also discuss subcommittee reports and upcoming meeting dates.

• Vote to confirm Pam Chenevert as Library Director
• Vote to authorize a distribution easement to National Grid at 129 Worcester Street for the new fire station
• Vote to establish a single tax rate (classification factor 1.0) for FY26
• Vote to accept the PARC grant award of $98,000 for Marcos Rios Memorial Playground
• Vote to accept the demolition quote from Costello Dismantling Co. up to $318,000 for 18‑30 Mill Street

The Town Council adopted a single tax classification factor of 1.0 for FY26, passing the motion 7-1. It also approved a small commercial exemption and a residential exemption, each unanimously. Additional actions included confirming the Library Director, authorizing a National Grid easement, accepting a $42,000 donation for a playground, and approving winter parking ban routes.

• Confirmed Pam Chenevert as Library Director (unanimous)
• Authorized distribution easement to National Grid for fire station property (unanimous)
• Accepted $42,000 donation from the Rios Family for Marcos Rios Memorial Playground (unanimous)
• Established a single tax rate for FY26 (7-1, Daniel voted no)
• Approved small commercial tax exemption for FY26 (8-0)
• Approved residential tax exemption for FY26 (8-0)
• Entered agreement for Veterans Council use of Community Center (unanimous)
• Accepted updated winter parking ban routes for 2025-2026 (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding the adoption of a residential factor for tax purposes. The body will also discuss the percentages of the local tax levy to be borne by each class of real and personal property.

• Public hearing on residential factor for tax purposes
• Discussion of local tax levy percentages for real and personal property classes

Southbridge Cultural Council

The Southbridge Cultural Council will review old business from the 2024 allocations and consider how to use any unencumbered funds remaining. It will examine applications for this year’s allocation of council funds. The council will also discuss members whose terms may be ending and consider potential new members.

• Review 2024 allocation outcomes
• Allocate unencumbered funds for current projects
• Review applications for this year’s fund allocation
• Discuss council members whose terms may be ending
• Consider new potential council members

Economic Development Commission

The commission will review a potential case study application aimed at revitalizing Main Street. Members will also discuss the need for consulting services and plan a joint quarterly meeting with the Redevelopment Authority.

• Case study application for Main Street revitalization
• Consulting services for commission tasks
• Joint quarterly meeting planning with the Redevelopment Authority

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Southbridge Planning & Development Subcommittee will vote on several amendment approvals, a $75 donation, and a CDBG-funded commercial rehabilitation loan. One item is a $14,500 loan to Timeless Beauty Bar and Salon LLC for signage, awnings, lights, and electrical work. The subcommittee will also consider a donation from Clara Delage for the Community Day and Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail ribbon‑cutting, and will approve minutes from prior meetings.

• Accept donation of $75 from Clara Delage for Community Day and Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail ribbon‑cutting
• Approve Amendment #2 to the agreement with Esteban Veras and Angela Acevedo
• Approve Amendment #2 to the agreement with Jiyo LLC
• Approve Amendment #1 to the agreement with Timeless Beauty Bar and Salon
• Approve CDBG‑funded commercial rehabilitation loan of $14,500 to Timeless Beauty Bar and Salon LLC for signage, awnings, lights, and electrical work

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The Education and Human Services Subcommittee will review the Town Manager’s appointment of Pam Chenevert as Library Director, based on the Library Board of Trustees recommendation. The subcommittee will also discuss a contract for the Veterans Council’s continued use of the Community Center and consider recommending both items to the Town Council.

• Review and discuss appointment of Pam Chenevert as Library Director
• Consider motion to recommend Library Director appointment to Town Council
• Review contract for Veterans Council’s continued use of the Community Center
• Consider motion to recommend Community Center contract to Town Council

Department of Public Works Subcommittee

The Department of Public Works Subcommittee will discuss updates to winter parking ban routes for 2025-2026. The body will also review 2-hour parking regulations and signage on Hamilton Street between Main Street and Marcy Street.

• Winter parking ban routes for 2025-2026
• 2-hour parking regulations and signage on Hamilton Street from Main Street to Marcy Street

Redevelopment Authority

The Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss the placement of planters in the downtown area. The body will also coordinate agenda items and dates for the Economic Development Commission's quarterly meeting.

• Discussion regarding downtown planters with DPW Director Bob Lamothe and Bernadette Meade
• Planning of Economic Development Commission quarterly meeting agenda and dates

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will read the minutes from the 10/21/25 meeting, receive a grant update, and discuss progress on right-of-way tree marking. It will also present a municipal tree inventory and review definitions and responsibilities for the Tree Warden and Urban Forester as part of the tree ordinance discussion. The meeting will conclude with new business, setting the next meeting date, and adjournment.

• Read minutes of 10/21/25 meeting
• Grant Update
• ROW Tree Marking Progress
• Municipal Tree Inventory
• Review Tree Ordinance definitions and Tree Warden/Urban Forester responsibilities

Trail Committee

The Southbridge Trails Committee will review the October meeting minutes and hold a citizen’s forum. It will vote on signage for the QVRT trail and receive updates on the Cole Forest/Heritage Trail and the QVRT project. The committee will also discuss the First Day Walk with The L and set the date for the next meeting.

• Vote on QVRT signage
• Citizen’s Forum
• Update on Cole Forest/Heritage Trail
• Update on QVRT
• First Day Walk with The L

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold two public hearings. The first hearing will consider a notice of intent for expedited engineering for CAAR Development, LLC, addressing wetlands violation remediation and a subdivision plan for parcels at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street. The second hearing will consider a request for determination of applicability for the town DPW's cleanup of contaminated soil at 185 Guelphwood Road. The commission will also review proposed rules under the Southbridge Wetland Bylaw.

• Public hearing: CAAR Development wetlands remediation and subdivision at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Public hearing: Town DPW soil cleanup at 185 Guelphwood Road
• Review of proposed rules under Southbridge Wetland Bylaw
• Update on 87 Golf Street
• Update on Lebanon Hill Road

The Conservation Commission accepted the October 30 minutes unanimously. It voted to continue the Pleasant Hills public hearing until November 20 at 6:15 p.m. It also extended the Guelphwood Road PCB cleanup discussion meeting to November 20 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted October 30 minutes (unanimous)
• Extended Pleasant Hills public hearing to Nov 20, 6:15 p.m. (unanimous)
• Extended Guelphwood Road PCB cleanup meeting to Nov 20, 6:30 p.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:02 p.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting on November 6, 2025 at 6:45 p.m. in the McCann Conference Room, Town Hall. The agenda item is a Request for Determination of Applicability under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act for a proposed cleanup and removal of PCB‑contaminated soil. The project is located at 185 Guelphwood Road (Map 14 Parcel 1). The commission will decide whether the wetlands law applies to the cleanup.

• Request for Determination of Applicability for PCB soil cleanup at 185 Guelphwood Rd.

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will hold a public hearing on November 5, 2025, to consider a special permit application by Zachary May for a commercial recreation use at 327 Hamilton St. The hearing is scheduled for 6:45 PM in the G.A.R. Hall at the Town Hall.

• Public hearing for special permit at 327 Hamilton St
• Zachary May applying for commercial recreation use
• Hearing in G.A.R. Hall, lower level, Town Hall, 41 Elm St
• Tasse Properties LLC listed as property owner

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a special permit application filed by Zachary May to allow commercial recreation use at 327 Hamilton St (Map 34, Lot 26) under Table 1 of the Southbridge Zoning Bylaw. The board will also discuss a matter at 554 South St. Additional agenda items include a review of the zoning bylaw, consideration of split‑zone parcels, a staff update on the Open Space and Recreation Plan, and a board forum.

• Special permit application by Zachary May for commercial recreation at 327 Hamilton St (Map 34, Lot 26)
• Discussion of 554 South St
• Zoning Bylaw review
• Consideration of split‑zone parcels
• Staff update on Open Space and Recreation Plan

Council on Aging

The Southbridge Council on Aging will hold its regular meeting, conduct a roll call, and vote to elect new officers. The meeting will include a report from the Community Services/COA Director, Katie Alicea Tilton, and discuss any old and new business items. An open forum will allow public comments, and the next meeting date will be set before adjournment.

• Vote of new officers
• Report from Community Services/COA Director Katie Alicea Tilton
• Discussion of old business
• Discussion of new business
• Open forum for public comments

Economic Development Commission

The Southbridge Economic Development Commission will hold a hybrid meeting on November 3, 2025. An invited guest, Rob Nahigian, will discuss how to trigger revitalization of Main Street. The commission will also propose a date for a joint quarterly meeting with the Redevelopment Authority and schedule its next meeting.

• Rob Nahigian (Counselor of Real Estate) discusses Main Street revitalization
• Propose date for a joint quarterly meeting with the Redevelopment Authority
• Schedule next commission meeting

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will vote on several financial items, including a $77,792 Digital Equity Grant, donations for the Recreation Director and Chief of Police, and payments for prior‑year invoices. Councilors will also consider extensions of existing service contracts and the acquisition of easements for the Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail. The meeting includes routine reports, announcements, and a citizens forum before entering executive session.

• Vote to accept a $100 donation from Cormier Jewelers for the Recreation Director
• Vote to accept a $5,000 donation from Southbridge Credit Union for the Chief of Police
• Vote to accept the Digital Equity Grant award of $77,792 and authorize the Town Manager to sign related documents
• Vote to authorize payment of $3,990 to Tighe & Bond for well study/water testing at 555 Pleasant Street
• Vote to approve a one‑year extension of the Elevator Maintenance service contract through September 20, 2026

The Southbridge Town Council voted unanimously to accept a $5,000 donation for the Chief of Police and a $100 donation for the Recreation Director. It also authorized several payments, including $19,873.68 to White Water for snow‑plow services, $961.70 for office furniture, and $3,990 for a well study at 555 Pleasant Street. The minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting were approved.

• Approved minutes of October 20, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted $100 donation from Cormier Jewelers for Recreation Director (9‑0)
• Accepted $5,000 donation from Southbridge Credit Union for Chief of Police (9‑0)
• Authorized $3,990 payment to Tighe & Bond for well study at 555 Pleasant Street (9‑0)
• Authorized $961.70 payment to WB Mason for office furniture (9‑0)
• Authorized $19,873.68 payment to White Water for snow‑plow services (9‑0)

Board of Assessors

The Southbridge Board of Assessors will meet to consider several property‑tax matters. Items include reviewing and signing Chapter Land applications, Abatement/Exemption reports, and FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices. The meeting also provides a taxpayer forum and an open forum for assessors before adjourning.

• Review and sign Chapter Land applications
• Review, discuss, and sign Abatement/Exemption reports
• Review, discuss, and sign FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices
• Open Taxpayer forum
• Board of Assessors open forum

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority board will vote on several contract items, including a $19,466.29 final payment for Project 278067‑667‑2 hot water boiler replacement. Additional votes cover a $1,077.55 change order for the same project, a no‑cost time extension for Project 278080‑Litchfield front entry deck and walkway, and the purchase of a new authority truck. The board will also consider an easement agreement for 150 Main Street.

• Board Vote: Certificate of Final Completion with a final payment of $19,466.29 for Project 278067‑667‑2 Hot Water Boiler Replacement
• Board Vote: Change Order #3 in the amount of $1,077.55 for Project 278067‑667‑2 Hot Water Boiler Replacement
• Board Vote: No‑cost time extension Change Order #3 for Project 278080‑Litchfield Front Entry Deck and Walkway
• Board Vote: Pending FY2026 budget approval for purchase of a new Southbridge Housing Authority truck
• Board Vote: Easement Agreement for 150 Main Street

Retirement Board

The Southbridge Retirement Board will meet to approve a monthly warrant and various member deduction requests. The board will also discuss participation in PEVY 2026 and review actuarial solicitations.

• Vote to approve October W102025 warrant for $592,006.63
• Vote to approve refund of accumulated deductions for Richard Corriveau and Kayla Haley (Girouard)
• Vote to approve rollover of accumulated deductions for Debra Piper and George Tryba
• Vote to approve transfer of accumulated deductions for Sean Fleming and Brianna Nieves
• Vote to approve purchase of 8.5000 years of service for Judith McIntyre

Conservation Commission

The agenda for this meeting contains only procedural boilerplate. No specific items for decision or discussion are listed.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting to determine the applicability of the Opacum Land Trust's proposed invasive‑species management using herbicides at 346 Blackmer Road (Map 114 Parcel 1). The commission will also receive an update on recent events at Pleasant Hills. Other agenda items are routine minutes, mail, and announcements.

• Request for determination of applicability – Opacum Land Trust invasive‑species management with herbicides at 346 Blackmer Road (Map 114 Parcel 1)
• Update on recent events at Pleasant Hills

The commission unanimously accepted the minutes from the October 2 and October 16 meetings. It closed the public portion of the meeting and voted to issue a Negative Determination of Applicability for the Opacum Land Trust herbicide project, adding the condition that the herbicide not be sprayed directly in water. All votes were by show of hands and passed unanimously.

• Accepted October 2 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted October 16 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Closed the public meeting (unanimous)
• Issued Negative Determination of Applicability for herbicide use, condition: not sprayed directly in water (unanimous)

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning & Development Subcommittee will review several proposals and recommend them to the Town Council. Items include a housing production plan, updates to the subsidized housing inventory, and the acquisition of permanent easements for the Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail at 38 Walnut Street and 150 Main Street. The committee will also consider contract extensions for River Crane phase 1 and the rail‑trail project, and an extension of the EDA’s travel‑tourism program.

• Recommend the Southbridge Housing Production Plan to the Town Council
• Recommend updates to the Subsidized Housing Inventory to the Town Council
• Authorize acquisition of permanent easements at 38 Walnut St and 150 Main St for the Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail
• Approve extension of AF Amorello’s contract to complete River Crane phase 1 by June 30, 2026
• Approve extension of David G. Roach’s contract to complete the Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail by April 31, 2026

Department of Public Works Subcommittee

The Subcommittee will review and discuss one‑year extensions of service contracts with Elevator Maintenance and SS Service Corp, both through September 20, 2026. It will also recommend payment of a $961.70 WB Mason invoice for office furniture and a $19,873.68 White Water invoice for a snow plow, with costs split between FY25 and FY26 accounts. Recommendations will be sent to the Town Council for approval.

• One‑year extension of the Elevator Maintenance service contract through September 20, 2026
• One‑year extension of the SS Service Corp service contract through September 20, 2026
• Payment of $961.70 to WB Mason for new office furniture (FY26 Small Capital account #583000)
• Payment of $19,873.68 to White Water for 2024/2025 snow plow ($15,500 from FY25 PO #20253372; $4,373.68 from FY26 Snow and Ice Specialized Services account #001495-529000)

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees will meet to review financial reports and discuss the search for a new Library Director. The board will also address items regarding Chess Park and library materials.

• Library Director Search
• Chess Park
• Books and Materials

Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee

The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee will discuss joining the Central Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communication Center. Members will also review a police department donation and firefighter recruitment.

• Proposed $5,000 donation from Southbridge Credit Union for police department use
• Discussion on recruitment for full-time firefighter positions
• Proposal to regionalize dispatch operations via the Central Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communication Center (CMRECC)

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The Education & Human Services Subcommittee will discuss three items: a $100 donation from Cormier Jewelers, a Digital Equity Grant award, and a $3,990 invoice to Tighe & Bond for well study and water testing at 555 Pleasant Street. For each item the subcommittee will entertain a motion to recommend approval to the Town Council. Voting rights are limited to subcommittee members present.

• Review donation of $100.00 from Cormier Jewelers and recommend acceptance
• Review Digital Equity Grant award and recommend Town Council approval
• Review payment of $3,990.00 invoice to Tighe & Bond for well study/water testing at 555 Pleasant Street

Southbridge Airport Commission

The Southbridge Airport Commission will meet to review and vote on the minutes from the September 22, 2025 meeting and hear the Airport Manager’s report. It will receive updates on the new T‑hangar construction, remaining repairs from a recent lightning storm, and the airport diner. Commissioners will vote on fire‑alarm monitoring options. The agenda also includes a member forum and scheduling the next meeting.

• Review and vote to approve minutes from 9/22/25
• Airport Manager’s report
• Update on new T hangar construction
• Discussion of remaining repairs from lightning storm
• Vote on fire alarm monitoring options

Redevelopment Authority

The Southbridge Redevelopment Authority will consider several items at its October 23, 2025 meeting. The agenda includes approval of the September 18, 2025 meeting minutes and a discussion of downtown planters with Bernadette Meade. The Authority will vote on a major amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan. An update on the Rail Trail and information about the next scheduled meeting are also on the agenda.

• Approve September 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discuss downtown planters with Bernadette Meade
• Vote on major amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan
• Provide update on the Rail Trail
• Note next scheduled meeting date

The Authority approved the September 18, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous four‑yes vote. It also approved the Town Council's major amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan, again with a unanimous four‑yes vote. Members decided to consult the DPW Director and the Southbridge Business Partnership about funding and support for downtown planters.

• Approved September 18, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Urban Renewal Plan major amendment (4-0)
• Decided to consult DPW Director and Southbridge Business Partnership on downtown planter project (no vote)

Board of Health

The Southbridge Board of Health will hold a public hearing on a tobacco fine appeal presented by M&S Smoke Shop & Stop and Save at 6:05 pm. The agenda also includes a citizens’ forum, a presentation by Stephanie Cyr of Open Sky Community Services, discussion of MGL Chapter 111 nuisance issues at Pleasant Hills, and a discussion and vote to submit comments on the Open Space & Recreation Plan. Additional items cover a TriEPIC drill on October 25, board training requirements, a sewer spill update, and routine reports and administrative business.

• Public hearing for tobacco fine appeal (M&S Smoke Shop & Stop and Save)
• Presentation by Stephanie Cyr from Open Sky Community Services
• Discussion of MGL Chapter 111 nuisance issues at Pleasant Hills
• Discussion and vote to submit comments on Open Space & Recreation Plan
• TriEPIC drill scheduled for October 25

Board of Health

The Southbridge Board of Health will hold a public hearing on October 23, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Veterans’ Room. The hearing will discuss fines issued during a routine inspection of M&S Smoke Shop under Chapter 1, Section 10.1 of the Tobacco Regulations. Community members are invited to attend and provide input.

• Public hearing on fines issued to M&S Smoke Shop pursuant to Chapter 1, Section 10.1 of the Tobacco Regulations

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees will hold an interview with Pam Chenevert, who is a candidate for the Library Director role. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. at the Jacob Edwards Library. No other agenda items are listed.

• Interview of candidate Pam Chenevert for Library Director

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will open the meeting, approve the September 18, 2025 minutes, hear an administrator’s report, consider other administration items, and provide a public comment period before adjourning.

• Approval of minutes from September 18, 2025
• Administrator’s report (Rickman)
• Other administration items
• Public comment period (Business from the Public)
• Roll‑call vote to adjourn

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will consider using LPA hours for an update to the Master Plan. The board will also review the Zoning Bylaw and receive a staff update on the Open Space and Recreation Plan. A Board Forum and routine items such as approval of minutes are also on the agenda.

• Discuss using LPA hours for Master Plan update
• Zoning Bylaw Review
• Staff update on Open Space and Recreation Plan
• Board Forum
• Approval of minutes of October 1, 2025 (not required)

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the October 1 meeting. The Board decided it will complete updates to the Zoning Bylaw before beginning work on the Master Plan. The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 PM.

• Approved October 1 meeting minutes (unanimous vote)
• Decided to prioritize Zoning Bylaw updates before Master Plan
• Adjourned meeting at 8:35 PM (unanimous vote)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign reports regarding tax abatements and exemptions. The board will also process FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and Chapter Land applications.

• Abatement/Exemption reports
• FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices
• Chapter Land applications

Recreation Committee

The Southbridge Recreation Committee meeting will cover a roll call, citizen and member forums, updates on community gardens, director announcements, and then adjourn. No specific decisions, contracts, or policy changes are listed in the agenda.

• Roll Call
• Citizen Forum
• Member Forum
• Community gardens updates (2 hours)
• Director’s Announcements

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Board of Health will conduct a public hearing regarding tobacco fine appeals for M&S Smoke Shop and Stop and Save. The board will also discuss and vote on comments for the Open Space & Recreation Plan.

• Public hearing for tobacco fine appeals: M&S Smoke Shop & Stop and Save
• Vote to submit comments on the Open Space & Recreation Plan
• Discussion of MGL Chapter 111 nuisance issues at Pleasant Hills
• Update on Lebanon Hill sewer spill
• Presentation by Stephanie Cyr from Open Sky Community Services

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee will meet to receive updates on community gardens. Other agenda items include a citizen forum and director's announcements.

• Community gardens updates

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will consider several votes, including approval of a major amendment to the Redevelopment Authority’s Urban Renewal Plan. Councilors will also confirm two full‑time firefighter appointments recommended by the Fire Chief. Additional items include accepting a $26,000 road safety award and approving fire department fund transfers for data processing and emergency microwave link replacement.

• Vote to accept the Redevelopment Authority’s Urban Renewal Plan — Major Amendment
• Vote to confirm Ryan Morton of Spencer, MA as a full‑time firefighter
• Vote to confirm Brendan Hill of Watertown, MA as a full‑time firefighter
• Vote to accept the FFY26 Municipal Road Safety Program Award of $26,000.00
• Vote to approve Fire Department transfers: $6,000 for data processing services and $20,476 for emergency replacement of the Public Safety Microwave Link between Elm Street and Blackmere Road

The council unanimously approved the Redevelopment Authority’s Urban Renewal Plan major amendment. It also confirmed appointments of two full‑time firefighters, accepted a $26,000 Municipal Road Safety Program award, accepted a $50 donation, and approved two fire‑department fund transfers. All votes were unanimous by a show of hands.

• Approved Redevelopment Authority Urban Renewal Plan – Major Amendment (unanimous)
• Confirmed appointment of Ryan Morton as full‑time firefighter (unanimous)
• Confirmed appointment of Brendan Hill as full‑time firefighter (unanimous)
• Accepted FFY26 Municipal Road Safety Program Award of $26,000 (unanimous)
• Accepted $50 donation from Gilbert Smalley for fire chief use (unanimous)
• Approved $6,000 fire department transfer from Specialized Services to Data Processing (unanimous)
• Approved $20,476 fire department transfer for microwave link replacement (unanimous)

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees will meet to conduct an interview for the role of Library Director. The session focuses on candidate Jessi McCarthy.

• Interview of candidate Jessi McCarthy for Library Director

Redevelopment Authority

The Town of Southbridge will hold a public hearing to collect public input on the Urban Renewal Plan – Major Amendment, as required by Massachusetts General Law Chapter 121B, Section 48. The hearing is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on October 20, 2025 in the Robert G. MacKinnon Council Chambers, Town Hall, 41 Ehn Street, Southbridge, MA. Residents may also submit written comments by email to [email protected] or by mail to Peg Dean, Economic Development and Planning Office, 41 Elm Street, Southbridge, MA, with a deadline of 12:00 p.m. on October 20, 2025.

• Public hearing on Urban Renewal Plan – Major Amendment (required by Mass. Gen. Law Ch. 121B §48)

Liquor Licensing Board

The Southbridge Liquor Licensing Board will meet on October 16, 2025 at the George Parent Community Room. The agenda includes a public hearing to consider the transfer of a liquor license from Cohasse Country Club Inc. to Cohasse Golf Course, Inc. d/b/a Cohasse. The board will also receive updates from the liquor agent, discuss one‑day liquor licenses, and address other board business.

• Public hearing on transfer of liquor license from Cohasse Country Club Inc. to Cohasse Golf Course, Inc. d/b/a Cohasse
• Liquor Agent updates
• One Day Liquor Licenses discussion
• Board Member Discussion
• Discussion of next meeting date

The October 16, 2025 board meeting consisted of announcements about license transfer fees, a correction to prior minutes, updates on the Cohasse Golf Club license transfer, and scheduling of the next meeting. No motions were recorded as approved, denied, or tabled, and no vote tallies were provided for any decisions.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will revisit the River and Crane Street decision after DEP comments. It will hold two public hearings: one for a single‑family home at 0 Brentwood Drive and another for wetlands remediation and a subdivision at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street. Updates will be given on 87 Golf Street and a recent sewer leak at 391 Lebanon Hill Road. New business includes commission reorganization, an open space and recreation plan assessment, and discussion of adding local permit fees to regulations.

• Revisit River and Crane Street decision in light of DEP comments
• Public hearing – Notice of Intent, McClure Engineering, single‑family home at 0 Brentwood Drive
• Public hearing – Notice of Intent, Expedited Engineers, wetlands remediation and subdivision at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Update on 87 Golf Street
• Update on recent sewer leak at 391 Lebanon Hill Road

The Conservation Commission voted to close public hearings and issue standard Orders of Conditions for two development projects, adding requirements such as SWPPP approval and long‑term monitoring. It also postponed a public hearing to November 6 and re‑elected its chair and vice‑chair. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Closed public hearing on BSC Group road reconstruction (unanimous yes)
• Issued Order of Conditions requiring SWPPP approval before BSC work begins and notification of illicit discharges (unanimous yes)
• Closed public hearing on McClure Engineering single‑family home project (unanimous yes)
• Issued Order of Conditions requiring two‑year inspection of replication area and immediate reporting of reptile/amphibian nests for McClure project (unanimous yes)
• Struck comments on McClure project after letter from Ms. Perez (unanimous yes)
• Continued public hearing for Expedited Engineers wetlands remediation to Nov 6 (unanimous yes)
• Re‑elected T. Colognesi as Chair and N. Nowick as Vice Chair (unanimous yes)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous yes)

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will consider several agenda items, including approving the July 16, 2025 meeting minutes and reviewing election results for the North Subregion representative. A key decision item is the potential approval of Proposed Adjustment #1 to the FY2026‑2030 Transportation Improvement Program highway project listing. The board will also hear preliminary findings from a housing and transportation study and a presentation of the 2025 Bicycle Plan.

• Approval of July 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• CMMPO North Subregion Representative Election Meeting Results
• Potential Action: Approval of Proposed Adjustment #1 to the FFY2026‑2030 TIP Highway Project Listing
• Preliminary Findings from Housing and Transportation Study Presentation
• 2025 Bicycle Plan Presentation

Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee

The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee will discuss recommending several items to the Town Council. These include a road safety award, two firefighter appointments, and fund transfers for fire department operations.

• FFY26 Municipal Road Safety Program Award of $26,000.00
• Appointment of Brendan Hill and Ryan Morton as full-time firefighters
• Transfer of $6,000.00 for Fire Department data processing services
• Transfer of $20,476.00 for emergency replacement of Public Safety Microwave Link Elm Street to Blackmere Road Towers
• Donation of $50.00 from Gilbert Smalley to the Fire Department

School Committee

The Southbridge School Committee will vote on members for its Policy Subcommittee and elect a representative for conference deliberations. The meeting also includes a public input forum, discussion of MASC resolutions, and a review of progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations. Additional agenda items cover introductions of a student representative and other announcements.

• Vote on members for Policy Subcommittee
• Vote to elect member to be representative during deliberations on conference
• Discussion of MASC resolutions
• Discussion on progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations
• Citizens’ Forum / Public Input

Trail Committee

The Southbridge Trails Committee will review and accept the September meeting minutes. It will host a citizen's forum and provide updates on the Cole Forest/Heritage Trail and the QVRT project. Members will also discuss committee matters and set the date for the next meeting.

• Review and acceptance of September meeting minutes
• Citizen’s Forum
• Update on Cole Forest/Heritage Trail
• Update on QVRT
• Trail Committee members forum

Board of Assessors

The Southbridge Board of Assessors will hold a taxpayer forum and then review, discuss, and sign any abatement or exemption reports that are presented. It will also review, discuss, and sign the FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices. The meeting concludes with an open forum for assessors before adjourning.

• Open Taxpayer forum
• Review, discuss, and sign Abatement/Exemption reports
• Review, discuss, and sign FY26 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices
• Board of Assessors Open Forum

Historical Commission

The Southbridge Historical Commission will meet to approve a Commercial Rehab project at 93 Hamilton Street and review a Demo Delay By-law. The meeting will be held as a hybrid event.

• Approve CDBG Commercial Rehab at 93 Hamilton Street
• Review/Approve Demo Delay By-law
• Review status of minutes needing approval
• Treasurer’s Report
• Next steps to repair clock tower

Town Council

The Town Council will appoint the Human Resources Director as acting Town Manager and vote to accept three state grants totaling over $100,000. The meeting also includes a citizens forum and a vote to enter executive session.

• Vote to appoint Noor El Gaderi as acting Town Manager through November 30, 2025
• Vote to accept $10,000 donation from Southbridge Business Partnership
• Vote to accept $69,699.00 State 911 Department FY2026 Support and Incentive Grant
• Vote to accept $7,556.03 State 911 Department FY2026 Emergency Medical Dispatch Grant
• Vote to accept $23,636.52 State 911 Department FY2026 Training Grant

The Town Council unanimously appointed Noor Elgaderi as acting Town Manager effective October 9 through November 30, 2025. The Council also unanimously accepted a $10,000 donation from the Southbridge Business Partnership for the Chief of Police to use at their discretion. Additionally, three State 911 Department grants—$69,699.00, $7,556.03, and $23,636.52—were unanimously approved for reimbursement and training purposes.

• Appointed Noor Elgaderi as acting Town Manager (Oct 9–Nov 30) – unanimous
• Accepted $10,000 donation from Southbridge Business Partnership for Chief of Police – unanimous
• Accepted $69,699.00 State 911 Department FY2026 Support and Incentive Grant – unanimous
• Accepted $7,556.03 State 911 Department FY2026 Emergency Medical Dispatch Grant – unanimous
• Accepted $23,636.52 State 911 Department FY2026 Training Grant – unanimous

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Southbridge Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance application filed by Jacques Kallanian and Kim Schwenderman. The request seeks to reduce frontage requirements to allow for the construction of a house at 263 Morris Street.

• Public hearing for variance application at 263 Morris Street
• Request to reduce frontage requirements for house construction
• Consideration of Section 5, Table 2 of the Southbridge Zoning Bylaws

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will meet on October 3, 2025, at AO Park. The board will discuss and conduct a dry‑run of the tree walk planned for the ISA NE Chapter Conference on October 5. No formal decisions are noted; the agenda focuses on preparation for the upcoming event.

• Discuss and dry‑run the ISA NE Chapter Conference Tree Walk scheduled for 10/5

Board of Health

The Board of Health and Conservation Commission will hold a joint meeting. The body will discuss and make decisions regarding a recent sewer spill at Lebanon Hill.

• Decisions regarding Lebanon Hill sewer spill

The Board of Health unanimously accepted a $792,019.77 financial commitment. It also approved adjustments for a clerical error, adding $150.00 and abating $450.00. Both M&S Smoke Shop and Stop and Save were found not responsible for tobacco fines. All votes were unanimous.

• Accepted October meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Found M&S Smoke Shop not responsible for tobacco fines (unanimous)
• Found Stop and Save not responsible for tobacco fines (unanimous)
• Accepted $792,019.77 commitment (unanimous)
• Accepted $-450.00 abatement for clerical error (unanimous)
• Added $150.00 from clerical error (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold two public hearings on Notices of Intent for proposed developments, including a single‑family home at 0 Brentwood Drive and a wetlands‑remediation subdivision at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street. Commissioners will consider ratifying a request for a full Notice of Intent for a proposed home on a future parcel on Eastford Road and receive an update on 87 Golf Street. New business includes an update on a sewer leak at 391 Lebanon Hill Road, discussion of the Open Space & Recreation Plan, and a review of whether local permit fees can be added to regulations.

• Public hearing – Notice of Intent for single‑family home at 0 Brentwood Drive (Map 80 Parcel 1).
• Continuation public hearing – Notice of Intent for wetlands remediation and subdivision at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street (Map 20 Parcels 4, 79‑K, 79‑L).
• Ratify decision to request full Notice of Intent for proposed single‑family home on future Eastford Road parcel.
• Update on recent sewer leak at 391 Lebanon Hill Road.
• Discussion of Open Space & Recreation Plan and possible addition of local permit fees to regulations.

The Conservation Commission unanimously accepted the September 18 minutes. It voted to continue two public hearings—one for the Brentwood Drive single‑family home and another for the Highfield Drive/ Pleasant Street wetlands remediation—both until October 16. The commission also unanimously ratified a Positive Determination of Applicability for Peter Allard’s work on Eastford Road. The Board of Health, meeting jointly, issued a cease‑and‑desist order to the forester responsible for the recent sewage spill.

• Accepted September 18 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for 0 Brentwood Drive until Oct 16, 6:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for 107‑111 Highfield Drive & 376 Pleasant Street until Oct 16, 6:30 p.m. (unanimous)
• Issued Positive Determination of Applicability to Peter Allard for Eastford Road project (unanimous)
• Board of Health issued cease‑and‑desist to forester over sewage spill (unanimous)
• Postponed yearly reorganization (no vote taken)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously at 7:36 p.m.

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will conduct site plan reviews for two specific properties. The board will also discuss the Zoning Bylaw Review and receive an update on the Open Space and Recreation Plan.

• Site Plan Review: 64 Mill St
• Site Plan Review: 100 Central St
• Zoning Bylaw Review
• Open Space and Recreation Plan update

The board voted to approve the September 17 meeting minutes. No site‑plan review was completed, and the agenda item for 64 Mill St was postponed pending a site plan. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved September 17 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees Screening Subcommittee will meet to review applicants for the Library Director role. The meeting is scheduled for September 30, 2025, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at the Wellsworth Conference Center, 14 Mechanic Street, Southbridge. No decisions are indicated; the agenda consists of a candidate screening session.

• Screening candidates for the Library Director role

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will continue a public hearing regarding a variance application for 263 Morris Street. The applicants are seeking a reduction of frontage requirements to allow for the construction of a house.

• Variance application for frontage reduction at 263 Morris Street (Map 55, Lot 4)

Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee

The Protection of Persons and Property Subcommittee will review several grants and donations for police and emergency services. The body will also discuss recommending that the Town Council join the Central Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communication Center (CMRECC).

• Proposed $10,000 donation from Southbridge Business Partnership for police use
• Proposed $69,699.00 State 911 Department FY2026 Support and Incentive Grant
• Proposed $7,556.03 State 911 Department FY2026 Emergency Medical Dispatch Grant
• Proposed $23,636.52 State 911 Department FY2026 Training Grant
• Discussion on joining the Central Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communication Center (CMRECC)

Retirement Board

The Southbridge Retirement Board will vote on a warrant for $519,543.03 covering retiree payroll, end‑of‑payroll checks, and accounts payable. The board will also vote to approve the retirement of Margaret Morrissey after 30.0000 credible service years, a refund for Amee Piskura, and transfers of accumulated deductions for Cherie Charron and Qiana Sykes. Additional forums and announcements are scheduled before adjournment.

• Vote to approve the Warrant for September W092025 in the amount of $519,543.03
• Vote to approve the superannuation retirement of Margaret Morrissey, Town of Southbridge/Librarian, with 30.0000 Creditable Service Years
• Vote to approve the refund of accumulated deductions for Amee Piskura, former Southbridge Public Schools/Educational Assistant, 1.2500 Years of Service
• Vote to approve the transfer of accumulated deductions for Cherie Charron (St. Francis), former Southbridge Public Schools/Occupational Therapist, to Worcester Regional Retirement System, 1.7500 Years of Service
• Vote to approve the transfer of accumulated deductions for Qiana Sykes, former Southbridge Public Schools/Student Support Center Case Manager, to State Board of Retirement, 0.6667 Years of Service

The Retirement Board accepted the August 28, 2025 minutes and approved several retiree actions, including Margaret Morrissey's retirement, a refund for Amee Piskura, and deduction transfers for Cherie Charron and Oiana Sykes. The board also approved the September payroll warrant (W092025) for $519,543.03. All motions passed with unanimous support and the meeting adjourned at 9:35 a.m.

• Accepted August 28, 2025 minutes – motion carried (all members in favor)
• Approved retirement of Margaret Morrissey – motion carried (all members in favor)
• Approved refund of accumulated deductions for Amee Piskura – motion carried (all members in favor)
• Approved transfer of deductions for Cherie Charron to Worcester Regional Retirement System – motion carried (all members in favor)
• Approved transfer of deductions for Oiana Sykes to State Board of Retirement – motion carried (all members in favor)
• Approved September payroll warrant W092025 for $519,543.03 (Retiree Payroll $420,445.98, Payroll End Checks $76,322.03, Accounts Payable $22,775.02) – motion carried (all members in favor)
• Set next meeting for October 30, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. – motion carried (all members in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:35 a.m. – motion carried (all members in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining or litigation. The meeting is scheduled to adjourn in executive session after the discussion regarding Pleasant Hills.

• Executive session to discuss strategy for collective bargaining or litigation regarding Pleasant Hills

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority will hold a budget workshop and vote on the FYE 2026 budget and Executive Director salary schedule. The board will also consider an amendment to the Management Agreement and the cancellation of a contract with Mark’s Electrical Service.

• FYE 2026 Budget vote
• FYE 2026 Executive Director Salary Schedule vote
• Management Agreement Amendment vote
• Vote to cancel Mark’s Electrical Service as low bidder and rebid project
• Designation of board member positions

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will consider and sign any abatement or exemption reports that are presented. It will also review and approve the 2025 real‑estate exemption applications and related notices. The meeting includes a taxpayer forum and an open forum for other business.

• Review and sign abatement/exemption reports
• Review and sign 2025 real‑estate exemption applications and notices
• Open taxpayer forum
• Open Board of Assessors forum for new business
• Accept minutes from previous meeting

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review financial reports and director updates. The agenda includes a discussion regarding the Chess Park.

• Chess Park discussion
• Financial Report review

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will consider several appointments, financial transfers, and contract approvals. Key actions include moving $1,000,000 from the Water Stabilization Fund to the TIP Water Capital Account for intersection work on Central, Foster, Hook, and Hamilton Streets, and approving contracts and change orders for road and sewer projects. The Council will also vote on the Urban Renewal Plan major amendment and a Host Community Agreement with Sunfusions Inc. for a marijuana product manufacturing facility.

• Transfer $1,000,000 from Water Stabilization Fund #0845 to TIP Water Capital Account 3 for intersection improvements at Central, Foster, Hook, and Hamilton Streets
• Award contract to Keating for road improvements per Bid #2025-PAVE (not CDBG funded)
• Approve Change Order #2 for McClure Engineering and Construction Oversight Contract – $149,544.22 for East Main Street construction (Project #64881)
• Approve Change Order #2 for AF Amorello Sewer Relining Contract – $569,118.00 for East Main Street (Project #64882)
• Enter Host Community Agreement with Sunfusions Inc., 79 North Street, for a marijuana product manufacturing facility

The council unanimously approved the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes, with one abstention. Councilor Kelly was appointed chair of the By‑Law Committee and Councilor Montigny was appointed chair of the Charter Review Committee. The council adopted a $100,000 initiative to advance senior‑housing priorities through December 31. The urban‑renewal plan major amendment presentation and vote were postponed to October 20.

• Approved September 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous, Ortiz abstaining)
• Appointed Councilor Kelly as Chairman of the By‑Law Committee
• Appointed Councilor Montigny as Chairman of the Charter Review Committee
• Approved $100,000 senior‑housing initiative (effective through Dec 31)

Southbridge Airport Commission

The Southbridge Airport Commission will meet to discuss the status of the airport diner and vote on potential changes to its lease terms. The commission will also receive updates on T hangar construction and repairs following a lightning storm.

• Vote to change diner lease terms
• Construction update for new T hangars
• Review of repairs resulting from a lightning storm

Redevelopment Authority

The Southbridge Redevelopment Authority will vote to approve the August 28, 2025 meeting minutes. The board will discuss plans for downtown planters with Bernadette Meade, provide updates on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects, and give status reports on infrastructure projects. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Approve August 28, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discuss downtown planters with Bernadette Meade
• Update on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects
• Update on infrastructure projects

The Authority approved the August 28, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous three‑yes vote. A motion to adjourn was also passed unanimously. The remaining agenda items were informational updates and discussion, with no formal actions taken.

• Approved August 28, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing at 5:45 p.m. to consider a Notice of Intent from BSC Group, Inc. for full‑depth reconstruction of River Street and Crane Street between Pleasant Street and Hamilton Street, including sidewalk, drainage improvements, and retaining‑wall repairs. At 6:00 p.m., the commission will hold a public meeting to act on a Request for Determination of Applicability filed by Peter Allard for a proposed single‑family home sitework near a wetland on Eastford Road (Map 94 Parcel 4). Members of the public may appear to be heard on either item, and copies of plans and filings are available at the Southbridge Town Clerk’s Office.

• Public hearing on Notice of Intent for full-depth reconstruction of River Street and Crane Street (between Pleasant St and Hamilton St), including sidewalk, drainage, and retaining‑wall work (BSC Group, Inc.)
• Public meeting to act on Request for Determination of Applicability for proposed single‑family home sitework near a wetland on Eastford Road (Map 94 Parcel 4) (Peter Allard)
• Plans and filing copies available at Southbridge Town Clerk’s Office
• Legal advertisement publication required in the Telegram and Gazette by September 10 2025
• Both events to be held in the McCann Conference Room, Town Hall

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will review several old‑business items, including a notice of intent for a full‑depth roadway reconstruction on River Street and Crane Street and work on a failing retaining wall. It will hear a request for applicability determination for a single‑family home on Eastford Road and continue a public hearing on wetlands remediation and subdivision plans at Highfield Drive and Pleasant Street. Updates on a site cleanup at 28 Sandersdale Road and discussion of the Open Space and Recreation Plan will also be considered. New business includes the yearly commission reorganization and further discussion of the Open Space and Recreation Plan.

• Notice of Intent by BSC Group for full-depth reconstruction of River Street and Crane Street between Pleasant Street and Hamilton Street, plus work on failing retaining wall of McKinstry Brook
• Request for Determination of Applicability for a single‑family home on Eastford Road (parcel not yet numbered, Map 94 Parcel 4)
• Continuation of public hearing on Notice of Intent by Expedited Engineers for CAAR Development, LLC for wetlands remediation and subdivision plan at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street (Map 20 Parcels 4, 79‑K, 79‑L)
• Update on site cleanup at 28 Sandersdale Road (report of site visit)
• Discussion of Open Space and Recreation Plan during comment period

The commission unanimously closed the public hearing on the BSC Group road reconstruction project and issued a standard Order of Conditions. It also unanimously continued a separate public hearing to the October 2 meeting. The commission asked Peter Allard to file a Notice of Intent for his Eastford Road parcel.

• Closed public hearing for BSC Group River Street & Crane Street reconstruction (unanimous)
• Issued standard Order of Conditions for BSC Group reconstruction project (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for Expedited Engineers CAAR Development to Oct. 2 (unanimous)
• Asked Peter Allard to file a Notice of Intent for Eastford Road single‑family home (request)
• Accepted August 21 minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed yearly reorganization due to member absences (no vote recorded)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will open the meeting, approve the minutes from the August 21, 2025 session, and receive a report from Administrator Rickman. The board will also consider other administration items, hear questions and comments from the public, and may vote to adjourn.

• Approval of minutes from August 21, 2025
• Administrator's report (Rickman)
• Other administration items
• Business from the public (questions/comments)
• Potential vote to adjourn

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to vote on the approval of the Housing Production Plan. The board will also receive updates on the Urban Renewal Plan and the Open Space and Recreation Plan.

• Vote on approval of the Housing Production Plan
• Site Plan Review: 64 Mill St
• Site Plan Review: 100 Central St
• Presentation from BSC Group on Urban Renewal Plan updates
• Staff update on Open Space and Recreation Plan

The Planning Board voted unanimously to find that Amendment #1 to the Downtown Southbridge Urban Renewal Plan conforms to local documents. The Board also unanimously accepted the June 2025 draft of the Housing Production Plan prepared by the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission. Minutes from the September 3 and September 10 meetings were approved unanimously.

• Approved September 3 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved September 10 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Found Downtown Southbridge Urban Renewal Plan Amendment #1 conforms to local documents (5-0)
• Accepted June 2025 draft Housing Production Plan (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Department of Public Works Subcommittee

The Department of Public Works Subcommittee will discuss several items and consider recommending them to the Town Council. Topics include confirming Michael Riley as a Maintenance Man Equipment Operator, moving $1,000,000 from the Water Stabilization Fund to the TIP Water Capital Account for intersection work on Central, Foster, Hook and Hamilton Streets, and approving a road‑improvement contract with Keating. The subcommittee will also review the East Main Street project change orders, a $11,100 purchase of a Billy‑Goat 3001 Hurricane vehicle, and a $25,000 transfer for rail‑trail bridge repairs.

• Transfer of $1,000,000 from Water Stabilization Fund #0845 to TIP Water Capital Account 3 for intersection improvements on Central, Foster, Hook, and Hamilton Streets
• Awarding a contract to Keating for road improvements (Bid #2025-PAVE) – not funded by CDBG
• Review of East Main Street Road project status and any needed change orders
• Transfer of $11,100 from Capital Stabilization Fund #0842 to DPW Capital Purchase for one Billy‑Goat 3001 Hurricane vehicle
• Transfer of $25,000 from Capital Stabilization Fund #0842 to River Bank Erosion account for rail‑trail bridge repairs

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The Education & Human Services Subcommittee will discuss the Town Manager’s appointment of Andrew Paradis to the Board of Health, effective immediately through June 30, 2026. The subcommittee may enter a motion to recommend confirmation to the Town Council, pending successful completion of State Ethics requirements. Voting rights are limited to subcommittee members present.

• Review and discuss confirmation of Andrew Paradis to the Board of Health (effective immediately through June 30, 2026) and consider a motion to recommend confirmation to the Town Council

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Southbridge Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on two variance applications. The first request, filed by Albert Soto-Serrano and Suejay Perez, seeks a reduction of the side setback to build a garage at 12 Hartwell Terrace. The second request, filed by Jacques Kallanian and Kim Schwenderman, seeks a reduction of frontage requirements to build a house at 263 Morris Street. The board will also consider approval of the minutes from the November 14, 2024 and July 10, 2025 meetings.

• Public hearing on variance for side‑setback reduction at 12 Hartwell Terrace (applicants Albert Soto‑Serrano & Suejay Perez)
• Public hearing on variance for frontage‑requirement reduction at 263 Morris Street (applicants Jacques Kallanian & Kim Schwenderman)
• Approval of minutes from November 14, 2024 meeting
• Approval of minutes from July 10, 2025 meeting

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning & Development Subcommittee will review several grant‑related items. They will consider moving up to $20,000 from the 5C Commercial Rehab allocation to the 4C Housing Rehab allocation in the FY22‑23 CDBG grant. They will discuss extending the FY24 grant to June 30 2026 for the North Street Neighborhood infrastructure project and applying for a Complete Streets Tier 3 construction grant of up to $250,000 to add sidewalks. They will also consider accepting the Redevelopment Authority’s Urban Renewal Plan – Major Amendment, with motions to recommend each item to the Town Council.

• Budget amendment to shift up to $20,000 from 5C Commercial Rehab to 4C Housing Rehab in the FY22‑23 CDBG grant
• Extension of the FY24 grant to June 30 2026 for Activity 6 Infrastructure – North Street neighborhood
• Application for a Complete Streets Tier 3 construction grant of up to $250,000 to add sidewalks in the North Street Neighborhood
• Acceptance of the Redevelopment Authority’s Urban Renewal Plan – Major Amendment

Board of Health

The Southbridge Board of Health will consider accepting the minutes from its August meeting. Chair Jason Osborne will introduce TriEpic, and Director of Health Daniel Wasiuk will provide updates. The board will also discuss scheduling the next meeting for Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 6 pm.

• Accept minutes from August meeting
• Introduction of TriEpic by Chair Jason Osborne
• Updates from Director of Health Daniel Wasiuk
• Discussion of next meeting date (Oct 9, 2025)
• Chair and Members Forum

The Board of Health unanimously approved the minutes from the July 11 and August 8, 2024 meetings. No action was taken on the Tobacco Alliance membership review or the motion to reverse the plastic bag ban. The board scheduled a hazardous waste day for October 5, 2024, decided there will be no Board of Health table at Autumn Fest, and set the next meeting for October 10, 2024. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted July 11, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted August 8, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• No action on Tobacco Alliance membership review; topic to be revisited
• No action on plastic bag ban reversal motion (no second)
• Hazardous waste day scheduled for Oct 5, 2024
• Board of Health will not have a table at Autumn Fest this year
• Next meeting set for Oct 10, 2024 at 6:00 PM
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Trail Committee

The Trails Committee will meet to review August meeting minutes and receive updates on the Cole Forest/Heritage Trail and the QVRT. The meeting includes a forum for citizens and committee members.

• Update on Cole Forest/Heritage Trail
• Update on QVRT

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will review updates on grants, right‑of‑way tree marking, and the municipal tree inventory. It will discuss a community outreach strategy using the website and Facebook. A major item is the review of tree‑ordinance definitions and the responsibilities of a Tree Warden and Urban Forester for a Shade Tree Commission. The board will also consider participation in the NE‑ISA “Tour des Trees” conference.

• Grant update
• Progress on right‑of‑way (ROW) tree marking
• Community outreach strategy (website and Facebook)
• Review of tree ordinance definitions and Tree Warden/Urban Forester responsibilities for a Shade Tree Commission
• Consideration of attending the NE‑ISA “Tour des Trees” conference

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will review the findings for a special permit at 39 Elm Street. The meeting also includes ongoing business, a staff update, and a board forum for public comments. All agenda items will be addressed during the September 10, 2025 session.

• Findings for 39 Elm St Special Permit

The Planning Board adopted the written findings that the proposed residential development at 39 Elm St is not in harmony with the zoning bylaws and is detrimental to the neighborhood. A motion to accept these findings was made by A. Bounphasaysonh, seconded by C. Acly, and passed with votes from C. Acly, M. Loin, D. Payeur, and A. Bounphasaysonh. The meeting was then adjourned by a motion that also passed.

• Accepted negative special‑permit findings for 39 Elm St (vote 4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

School Committee

The Southbridge School Committee will review and approve the August meeting minutes, hold a Citizens’ Forum for public input, receive announcements and a presentation from the interim receiver/superintendent, and discuss progress toward meeting the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) plan expectations. The meeting concludes with scheduling the next session.

• Review and approve minutes from the August meeting
• Citizens’ Forum / public input session
• Interim receiver/superintendent announcements
• Interim receiver/superintendent presentation
• Discussion on progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations

Historical Commission

The Southbridge Historical Commission will consider several items at its September 9 meeting. The main decision is whether to approve Community Development Block Grant funds for roof, facade, and sign improvements at 93 Hamilton Street. The commission will also discuss forming a working group to draft a demolition‑delay by‑law and plan next steps to repair the town’s historic clock tower. Additional agenda items cover routine reports and scheduling.

• Approve CDBG Commercial Rehab at 93 Hamilton Street for roof, facade, and sign improvements
• Form Working Group for a demolition‑delay by‑law
• Discuss next steps to repair the historic clock tower

The Southbridge Historical Commission approved a roof survey for 93 Hamilton Street and adopted revisions to the Demo Delay Bylaw to be finalized in October. Commissioners also adopted a rule that member Jay Zebryk must sign a release and obtain SHC approval for any work on the town clock tower. The next meeting was scheduled for Oct. 7, 2025, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved roof survey for 93 Hamilton Street (unanimous)
• Approved revisions to Demo Delay Bylaw for October consideration (unanimous)
• Approved requirement that Jay Zebryk sign release and obtain SHC approval for clock tower work (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for Oct. 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will vote on a lease extension for the Registry of Motor Vehicles and authorization for airport land lease negotiations. The body will also consider deer hunting permissions in watershed lands and a subcommittee appointment.

• Lease extension with Massachusetts Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicles Division from September 15, 2025, to September 14, 2026
• Authorization for Town Manager and Airport Commission to negotiate airport property land leases for up to 40 years
• Authorization of deer hunting in watershed lands from September 15 or October 6, 2025, through December 31, 2025
• Appointment of Denise Clemence to the General Government Subcommittee through June 30, 2026
• Capacity Building Status Update presentation from School Committee Chair Brittany Davidson

The Southbridge Town Council voted 7‑1 to approve a third amendment extending the lease with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation for one year. The council also authorized deer hunting on town watershed lands and gave the Town Manager and Airport Commission permission to negotiate a 20‑year airport land lease with renewal options. Additionally, the council confirmed the appointment of Denise Clemence to the General Government Subcommittee and adopted the previous meeting's minutes unanimously.

• Approved minutes of August 25, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Confirmed Denise Clemence as Citizen Member of General Government Subcommittee (unanimous)
• Approved third amendment extending MassDOT lease (7‑1, Councilor Daou opposed)
• Authorized deer hunting on watershed lands (unanimous)
• Authorized Town Manager and Airport Commission to negotiate 20‑year airport land lease with two 10‑year options (7‑1, Councilor Daou opposed)

Board of Assessors

The Southbridge Board of Assessors will meet to accept minutes from prior meetings, open a taxpayer forum, review and sign any abatement or exemption reports, and address new business. The meeting will also include an open forum for the board and conclude with adjournment.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will continue a public hearing regarding wetlands violation remediation and a subdivision plan for CAAR Development, LLC. The body will also review a request for determination regarding beaver control at Southbridge Jr./Sr. High School.

• Public hearing for CAAR Development, LLC: 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Request for Determination of Applicability: beaver control at 132 Torrey Road
• Proposed site cleanup at 28 Sandersdale Road
• Discussion of Open Space & Recreation Plan assessment
• Yearly Commission Reorganization

The Conservation Commission accepted the August 21 minutes and continued a public hearing on a wetlands remediation project to September 18. It closed the public hearing on the beaver‑control emergency order at the high school and voted unanimously to issue a Negative Determination of Applicability for that order. The yearly reorganization was postponed and the meeting was adjourned.

• Accepted August 21 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued wetlands remediation public hearing to Sept 18, 6:15 p.m. (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on beaver‑control emergency order (unanimous)
• Issued Negative Determination of Applicability for beaver‑control order (unanimous)
• Postponed yearly reorganization (no vote recorded)
• Added community‑garden fertilizer/pesticide discussion to Oct 2 agenda (not adopted)
• Noted upcoming PCB cleanup at Guelphwood Road site (informational)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will hold a hybrid meeting on September 3, 2025, to review a site plan for 64 Mill St and discuss a decision on a special permit for 39 Elm St. The board will also consider approval of minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting and receive staff updates.

• Site Plan Review: 64 Mill St
• Discuss 39 Elm St Special Permit decision

The board approved the minutes from the August 20 meeting. The board voted 1‑4 to reject the special permit for 39 Elm Street, so the permit was not granted. The board will consider the Housing Production Plan at its September 17 meeting.

• Approved August 20 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Rejected 39 Elm St Special Permit (vote 1‑4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:40 pm (motion carried)

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees will meet to review a proposed emergency closing policy and discuss the potential impact of federal funding cuts. The board will also coordinate fund transfers with the town treasurer and review the Edwards Family Trusts.

• Proposed Emergency Closing Policy
• Coordination with town treasurer for moving funds
• Review of Edwards Family Trusts trusteeship
• Discussion of federal funding cuts
• Memorandum of Understanding with the Friends

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority will hold its regular meeting to review monthly financial reports, program updates, and vote on several items including year-end operating statements for multiple programs, compensation forms, lead paint compliance certification, and approval of a $28,844.79 electrical services contract for Project 278068 in Quinebaug.

• Vote on FYE June 30, 2025, Year End Operating Statements for 400-1, 689-C, and MRVP Programs
• Vote on FYE 2025 Top 5 Compensation Form
• Certification of Compliance with Federal and State Lead Paint Laws
• Approval of Mark’s Electrical Service as Lowest Responsible Bidder for $28,844.79 (Project 278068 - Electrical Breaker Testing and Safety Components, Quinebaug)
• Review of Accounts Payable (June 28–August 29, 2025) and Monthly Expense Reports (June & July 2025)

Liquor Licensing Board

The Southbridge Liquor Licensing Board will continue a public hearing regarding a license violation at Maqui's. The board will also discuss the process for license holders to trade wine and malt licenses for all-alcohol licenses.

• Public hearing continuation for Maqui Inc. d/b/a Maqui’s at 61 Chestnut St. regarding violations of M.G.L. 138 S. 12
• Discussion of MGL c138 §12D regarding trading wine and malt licenses for non-transferable all-alcohol licenses
• Review of one day liquor licenses

The board accepted the minutes from the August 7, 2025 meeting and approved a one‑day liquor license for LaSalle’s fundraiser. It closed the public hearing on Maqui Inc. and adopted the recommendation that last call be set at midnight with at least two security personnel on duty. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted August 7, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Fontaine, seconded by Grabowski)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for LaSalle fundraiser at 440 Main St. (motion by Fontaine, seconded by Vice Chair Wandelear)
• Closed the public hearing on Maqui Inc. (motion by Fontaine, seconded by Grabowski)
• Adopted recommendation: last call at midnight and minimum two security guards at Maqui’s (motion by Fontaine, seconded by Grabowski)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:35 p.m. (motion by Fontaine, seconded by Vice Chair Wandelear)

Redevelopment Authority

The Southbridge Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss a major amendment to the Draft Urban Renewal Plan. If recommended, the plan will be presented to the Planning Board and Town Council for approval.

• Recommendation of Draft Urban Renewal Plan — Major Amendment
• Discussion regarding downtown planters

The Authority approved the August 7, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to recommend that the Draft Urban Renewal Plan – a major amendment – be presented to the Planning Board and Town Council for approval. The board decided to add $3,000 to the budget for downtown planters, flowers, and related items. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved August 7, 2025 minutes (3 yes)
• Recommended presenting Draft Urban Renewal Plan to Planning Board and Town Council (3 yes)
• Added $3,000 to budget for downtown planters and flowers
• Adjourned meeting (4 yes)

Retirement Board

The Southbridge Retirement Board will vote on the August 2025 warrant and a new software contract with Pension Prot. The board will also consider retirement and refund requests for former employees.

• Vote on August 2025 warrant for $505,619.46
• Vote to approve PTG's new software contract: Pension Prot
• Vote on superannuation retirement for Douglas Campbell (Bay Path Vocational High School)
• Vote on refund of accumulated deductions for Yamilette Rosario and Emily Simmons
• Discussion of Administrator’s FY 2026 COLA and evaluation

The Retirement Board approved the August payroll warrant of $505,619.46, a 2% cost‑of‑living adjustment effective July 1, 2025, and a 3% merit increase effective August 9, 2025. It also approved the superannuation retirement of Douglas Campbell, refunds of accumulated deductions for Yamilette Rosario and Emily Simmons, and a new PTG software contract. All motions passed with unanimous support.

• Approved minutes from July 31, 2025 (all members in favor)
• Approved superannuation retirement for Douglas Campbell (all members in favor)
• Approved refund of accumulated deductions for Yamilette Rosario (all members in favor)
• Approved refund of accumulated deductions for Emily Simmons (all members in favor)
• Approved PTG new software/contract (all members in favor)
• Approved separate votes for COLA and merit (all members in favor)
• Approved 2% COLA effective July 1, 2025 (all members in favor)
• Approved payroll warrant W082025 for $505,619.46 (all members in favor)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will meet via Zoom on August 28, 2025, to conduct an executive session regarding collective bargaining strategy with TransDev/Worcester Local 22 of the Amalgamated Transit Union. The meeting is open to the public via webinar, and the board will accept questions and comments in advance.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy
• Remote meeting via Zoom Webinar
• Public comments accepted via email or phone
• Meeting held for 37 communities including Southbridge and Worcester

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will convene a meeting to enter executive session under Massachusetts law for the purpose of discussing federal grant compliance requirements. No substantive decisions are listed on the agenda.

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will vote on several appointments to town boards and positions, including new police sergeants and inspectors. It will also ratify contracts for road salt, equipment, and engineering services, and approve housing rehabilitation loans funded by Community Development Block Grants.

• Confirm permanent appointments of Jason Bonadies and Angel Rosario as Police Sergeants
• Ratify $79.47/ton salt contract with Leed Group, Inc. ($79.47 per ton)
• Approve $164,850.00 purchase of McCloskey 512A Trommel Screening Plant from Rock & Recycling Equipment, LLC
• Ratify $122,500.00 housing rehabilitation loan for Project 4 under CDBG
• Authorize application for MassDOT LEAP Program for Interstate 90 access study

The council unanimously approved a contract with Leed Group, Inc. for treated road salt at $79.47 per ton, funded from the Snow & Ice account, representing a roughly 16% reduction from FY23. It also unanimously confirmed several appointments, including two permanent police sergeants, a special traffic constable, and members to the Council on Aging and Zoning Board of Appeals. Additional contracts for a screening plant, a structural engineering evaluation, and a change order for environmental services were also ratified.

• Ratified Leed Group treated‑salt contract ($79.47/ton) – unanimous
• Ratified purchase of McCloskey Trommel Screening Plant ($164,850) – unanimous
• Approved $20,000 transfer for Hamilton St. sidewalk fence replacement – unanimous
• Ratified structural engineering evaluation of 18‑30 Mill St. ($3,400) – unanimous
• Ratified change order for additional environmental services at 18‑30 Mill St. ($37,300) – unanimous
• Confirmed Jason Bonadies as permanent police sergeant – unanimous
• Confirmed Angel Rosario as permanent police sergeant – unanimous
• Confirmed John Larochelle as special traffic constable (3‑year term) – unanimous

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign reports regarding tax abatements, exemptions, and real estate adjustments. The meeting includes a taxpayer forum and an open forum.

• Review and signing of Abatement/Exemption reports
• Review and signing of Real Estate Adjustment reports

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will hold a hybrid meeting on August 21, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. at 60 Foster Street and via Zoom. The agenda consists solely of procedural items such as opening remarks, roll call, and approval of past minutes, with no substantive decisions or discussions listed.

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a wetlands violation remediation and subdivision plan. The commission will also act on a request from the Southbridge School Department to install a pond leveler. Additionally, the body will conduct its yearly reorganization.

• Public hearing for CAAR Development, LLC regarding wetlands violation remediation at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Request for Determination of Applicability for beaver control and pond leveler installation at 132 Torrey Road (Southbridge Jr./ Sr. High School)
• Yearly Commission Reorganization

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the August 7 meeting. It also voted unanimously to continue the public hearing on the Highfield Drive and Pleasant Street wetlands issue until September 4 at 6:15 p.m. The yearly reorganization was postponed because Co‑Chair N. Nowick was absent, and the commission agreed to remind the property owner to complete pending road work to protect the wetland.

• Accept August 7 minutes – passed unanimously
• Continue public hearing on Highfield/ Pleasant Street wetlands – continued to Sep 4 6:15 p.m., passed unanimously
• Postpone yearly reorganization – postponed
• Agree to remind property owner to complete road work – agreed
• Schedule next meeting for Sep 4 at 6:00 p.m. – set
• Adjourn meeting – unanimous

Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee

The Protection of Persons and Property Subcommittee will review several appointments made by the Town Manager. The body will decide whether to recommend these individuals to the Town Council for confirmation.

• Appointment of Jason Bonadies as permanent, full-time Police Sergeant
• Appointment of Angel Rosario as permanent, full-time Police Sergeant
• Appointment of John Larochelle as Special Traffic Constable through June 30, 2028
• Appointment of Michael Pietrowicz as Electrical Inspector
• Appointments of Neil Piesta as Assistant Electrical Inspector and Jared Falke as Plumbing & Gas Inspector

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to review a site plan for 64 Mill St. The board will also receive staff updates regarding clean energy permitting and the Open Space and Recreation Plan.

• Site Plan Review: 64 Mill St
• DOER Clean Energy Permitting Updates
• Open Space and Recreation Plan

The Board voted to approve the minutes from the July 23 meeting. The motion carried with all members present voting in favor. The Board then moved to adjourn, and the motion to adjourn also passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved July 23 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Department of Public Works Subcommittee

The Department of Public Works Subcommittee and Town Council will discuss several contracts and a fund transfer. The body is reviewing bids for road salt and a screening plant for the sewer facility. They will also discuss street opening permit restrictions.

• Contract with Leed Group, Inc. for treated salt at $79.47 per ton
• Purchase of a McCloskey 512A Trommel Screening Plant for $164,850
• Transfer of $20,000 for approximately 307 feet of fencing on Hamilton Street
• Review of 'Conditions and Restrictions for Street Opening Permit' and contractor accountability

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will review the municipal tree inventory and progress on right-of-way tree marking. Members will discuss community outreach strategies and examine examples of tree ordinances and bylaws.

• Review of municipal tree inventory
• Right-of-way (ROW) tree marking progress
• Discussion of tree ordinance and bylaw examples
• Review of Tree Warden and Urban Forester responsibilities
• Community outreach strategy for website and Facebook

Southbridge Airport Commission

The Southbridge Airport Commission will meet to vote on new business hangar rental agreements. The body will also receive updates on T hangar construction and equipment repairs following a lightning storm.

• Vote on new business hangar rental agreements
• Construction update for new T hangars
• Equipment repairs resulting from lightning storm
• Discussion on completing the office and bath in building A

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to introduce new board members and receive updates from the Director of Health. The meeting will also include a forum for the chair and members.

• Introduction of new board members
• Updates from Director of Health Daniel Wasiuk

The Board voted unanimously to approve a payment of $815,250 to Casella for trash pickup services. It also approved receiving a refund of $654.20 from Casella. Additionally, the Board elected Gus Steeves as Chairman and Malika Hill as Vice Chair, each by unanimous vote.

• Approved $815,250 payment to Casella for trash pickup (unanimous)
• Approved $654.20 refund from Casella (unanimous)
• Elected Gus Steeves as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Malika Hill as Vice Chair (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will vote for a new chair and vice-chair. The body will also review updates from Director of Health Daniel Wasiuk and vote on quarterly curbside commitments.

• Vote for new chair
• Vote for new vice-chair
• Vote on quarterly curbside commitments

The board unanimously approved the FY 2025 first‑quarter trash collection contract with Enterprise for $644,920. They also approved a $12,880 adjustment to the trash bill. The board named Roland LaRochelle as the town’s representative to the Region 2 PHEP committee. A motion to begin water‑testing on Pleasant Street and Clemence Hill was approved.

• Approved FY 2025 Q1 trash contract with Enterprise for $644,920 (unanimous)
• Approved trash bill adjustment of $12,880 (unanimous)
• Approved Roland LaRochelle as representative to Region 2 PHEP committee (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with water testing on Pleasant St and Clemence Hill (unanimous)
• Approved carrying over July 11, 2024 minutes to next meeting (unanimous)
• Approved setting next meeting for September 12, 2024 at 6:00 PM (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment at 8:17 PM (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to receive a report from Director Katie Alicea Tilton. The agenda consists of procedural items and open discussion.

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning and Development Subcommittee will review a potential application for the MassDOT LEAP Program to improve Interstate 90 access. Members will also discuss matching funds for commercial rehab and disclosure rules for housing rehab programs.

• Recommendation for confirmation of Shelley Klein to the Zoning Board of Appeals
• CDBG funded Commercial Rehab matching funds requirements
• CDBG Housing Rehab program property owner disclosure
• MassDOT Local Early Actionable Planning (LEAP) Program application for I-90 access

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The Education and Human Services Subcommittee will meet to discuss the Town Manager's appointment of Bernadette Meade to the Council on Aging. The body may recommend the appointment for confirmation by the Town Council.

• Appointment of Bernadette Meade to the Council on Aging for a three-year term ending June 30, 2028

School Committee

The School Committee will conduct MASC training on policies, procedures, and roles. The body will also discuss progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations to build committee capacity.

• MASC training of policies, procedures, and roles
• Summer hire update from interim Receiver/Superintendent
• August Professional Development information
• Discussion on DESE plan expectations for School Committee capacity

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will consider several Community Development Block Grant-funded loan contracts for housing and commercial rehabilitation. The body will also vote on senior programming for FY26 and a donation to the Community Center.

• Housing Rehabilitation Deferred Payment Loan Contracts for Project 4 ($122,500), Project 5 ($61,648), and Project 6 ($22,430)
• Commercial Rehabilitation Deferred Payment Loan Contracts for Project 5 ($14,790) and Project 7 ($6,245)
• Acceptance of a $1,000 donation from the Patton Alliance for the Community Center
• Proposals for FY26 Senior Exercise and Senior Dance programs
• Confirmation of Renate Kendall to the Council on Aging for a three-year term

The council unanimously reappointed Renate Kendall to the Council on Aging and accepted a $1,000 donation from the Patton Alliance for the Community Center. It also approved FY26 senior exercise and dance programs. The council postponed three housing‑rehabilitation loan contracts and approved two commercial‑rehabilitation loan contracts.

• Reappointed Renate Kendall to the Council on Aging (unanimous)
• Accepted $1,000 donation from Patton Alliance for Community Center (unanimous)
• Approved Senior Exercise Program for FY26 (unanimous)
• Approved Senior Dance Program for FY26 (unanimous)
• Postponed Project 4 housing rehab loan of $122,500 to next meeting (unanimous)
• Postponed Project 5 housing rehab loan of $61,648 to next meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Project 5 commercial rehab loan of $14,790 for 101 Central Street (unanimous)
• Approved Project 7 commercial rehab loan of $6,245 (unanimous)

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will convene an executive session to discuss items related to federal grant-in-aid requirements. No substantive decisions are listed on the agenda; the meeting appears to be procedural.

Redevelopment Authority

The Southbridge Redevelopment Authority is meeting to conduct internal organizational business. The primary purpose of the meeting is the election of a Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary.

• Election of Chairman
• Election of Vice Chairman
• Election of Secretary

Liquor Licensing Board

The Southbridge Liquor Licensing Board will hold public hearings regarding a license transfer and a regulatory violation. The board will also discuss petitioning the state for additional package store licenses.

• One day liquor license for Trinity Catholic Academy at 11 Pine St. for Sept. 12, 2025
• Public hearing for liquor license transfer to Merry Pizza Inc. at 78 Pleasant St.
• Public hearing for Maqui Inc. (Maqui’s) at 61 Chestnut St. regarding a May 18, 2025 violation
• Discussion on petitioning MA Legislation for more package store licenses

The Liquor Licensing Board accepted the June 26 minutes and approved a One‑Day liquor license for Trinity Catholic Academy’s alumni reception. It also approved the transfer of the restaurant liquor license for Merry Pizza Inc. and voted to extend the public hearing on the Maqui’s incident to the next meeting on August 28. The board confirmed it cannot change beer‑and‑wine package store licenses to full‑liquor licenses and then adjourned.

• Accepted June 26, 2025 meeting minutes (adopted)
• Approved One‑Day liquor license ODLL-25-6 for 11 Pine St., Trinity Catholic Academy (adopted)
• Approved transfer of restaurant liquor license to Merry Pizza Inc., 78 Pleasant St. (adopted)
• Extended public hearing on Maqui’s incident to August 28, 2025 (adopted)
• Confirmed state law does not allow converting beer‑and‑wine package store licenses to full‑liquor licenses (informational)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:40 p.m. (adopted)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will discuss strategies for marketing town-owned commercial parcels and the potential creation of another industrial park. The body will also consider coordinating meetings with the Redevelopment Authority and neighboring town commissions.

• Review of town-owned commercial parcels and marketing strategies
• Discussion on creating another industrial park in town
• Proposed joint quarterly meeting with the Redevelopment Authority
• Vote on contacting Sturbridge, Charlton, and Dudley EDCs to study committee functions

Trail Committee

The Trails Committee will meet to discuss updates on the QVRT, storage areas, and the Cole Forest/Heritage Trail. The meeting includes a forum for citizens and committee members.

• QVRT status update
• Storage area update
• Cole Forest/Heritage Trail status update

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will hold a continued public hearing regarding a notice of intent for wetlands violation remediation and a subdivision plan. The commission will also conduct its yearly reorganization.

• Public hearing for CAAR Development, LLC regarding 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Yearly Commission Reorganization

The commission unanimously accepted the minutes from the July 24 meeting. It also unanimously voted to continue the public hearing on the CAAR Development wetlands remediation and subdivision plan until August 21 at 6:15 p.m. The yearly reorganization was postponed after a commissioner left the meeting.

• Accepted July 24 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Extended public hearing on CAAR Development to Aug 21 (unanimous)
• Postponed yearly reorganization (no vote recorded)

Liquor Licensing Board

The Liquor Licensing Board will hold a public hearing regarding a violation of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 138, Section 12. The hearing concerns Maqui Inc. d/b/a Maqui’s located at 61 Chestnut St.

• Public hearing for Maqui Inc. d/b/a Maqui’s (61 Chestnut St.) regarding a May 18, 2025 violation

Liquor Licensing Board

The Liquor Licensing Board will hold a public hearing to consider an application for the transfer of an all-alcohol liquor license. The application is submitted by Merry Pizza, Inc., formerly known as Bravas Inc.

• Transfer of All Alcohol Liquor License for Merry Pizza, Inc. at 78 Pleasant St.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a variance application for a property at 12 Hartwell Terrace. The board will discuss a request to reduce the side setback to allow for the construction of a garage.

• Variance application for side setback reduction at 12 Hartwell Terrace (Map 53; Lot 175) to construct a garage

The board voted to continue the public hearing on a side‑setback reduction for a garage at 12 Hartwell Terrace to the next meeting. The motion to adjourn the meeting was also approved unanimously.

• Continue public hearing to next meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will review progress on right-of-way tree marking and a municipal tree inventory. The board will also discuss community outreach strategies and review examples of tree ordinances and bylaws.

• Right-of-way tree marking progress
• Municipal tree inventory
• Community outreach via website and Facebook
• Review of tree ordinance and bylaw examples
• Grant update

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning and Development Subcommittee will review several Community Development Block Grant-funded loan contracts for housing and commercial rehabilitation. The body will also discuss gaining highway access at the intersection of Route 20 and 169.

• Project 4 Housing Rehabilitation Deferred Payment Loan: $122,500
• Project 5 Housing Rehabilitation Deferred Payment Loan: $61,648
• Project 6 Housing Rehabilitation Deferred Payment Loan: $22,430
• Project 5 Commercial Rehabilitation Deferred Payment Loan: $14,790
• Project 7 Commercial Rehabilitation Deferred Payment Loan: $6,245

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The Education and Human Services Subcommittee will discuss recommendations for the Town Council regarding senior services. This includes a member appointment and two program proposals for FY26.

• Reappointment of Renate Kendall to the Council on Aging for a term ending June 30, 2028
• Acceptance of a $1,000 donation from the Patton Alliance for the Community Center
• Proposal for the FY26 Senior Exercise Program
• Proposal for the FY26 Senior Dance Program

Historical Commission

The Southbridge Historical Commission will meet to discuss specific property alterations and preservation efforts. The body will review a chimney removal and plan repairs for the clock tower.

• Discussion with Greg Cumings regarding chimney removal at 205 Main Street
• Working Group for Demo Delay By-Law
• Next steps to repair clock tower

The commission reviewed the façade replacement for 205 Main Street, proposed amendments to the demolition by‑law, and outlined next steps for repairing the town clock tower. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded; the items remain in discussion or planning stages.

Retirement Board

The board will vote on the July warrant and several member retirement, refund, and transfer requests. Members will also discuss a new software agreement for Pension Pro+ and review various PERAC memos.

• Vote to approve July warrant for $673,248.71
• Vote to approve superannuation retirement of Evelyn Rivera
• Vote to approve refunds of accumulated deductions for six former employees
• Discussion of PTG's Pension Pro+ software and new agreement
• Vote to approve transfer of accumulated deductions for Ann Artuso (Flattery) to Mass Teachers’ Retirement System

The Retirement Board accepted the June 26 minutes and approved several refunds and a superannuation retirement. It also approved a July warrant totaling $673,248.71 for retiree payroll, end checks and accounts payable. The next meeting was scheduled for August 28, 2025 and the session was adjourned at 9:57 a.m.

• Accepted June 26, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved superannuation retirement of Evelyn Rivera (unanimous)
• Approved refund of accumulated deductions for Jean Baptiste Charles (unanimous)
• Approved refund of accumulated deductions for Marquis Mercado (unanimous)
• Approved July warrant of $673,248.71 covering retiree payroll, end checks, accounts payable (unanimous)
• Approved rollover of deductions for Elizabeth Scully (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for August 28, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:57 a.m. (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review abatement reports and uncollectible personal property taxes for Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021. The board is also scheduled to sign the 2025 MV Commitment #4.

• 2025 MV Commitment #4 in the amount of $100,553.09
• Personal Property uncollectible taxes for Fiscal Year 2020 and 2021
• Abatement reports

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will continue a public hearing regarding a subdivision plan and wetlands violation remediation. The body will also review requests for Certificates of Compliance and discuss a response to the MASS Ready Act bill.

• Public hearing for CAAR Development, LLC regarding 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Guidance request for building on Hilltop Drive (Map 108 Parcels 98 & 99)
• Inquiry regarding Vegetation Conservation Easement requirements for Harwood Farm Road
• Certificate of Compliance request for Bridge Rehabilitation Project near 186 Dresser Street
• Certificate of Compliance request for 50 Maggie Lane

The commission voted unanimously to continue the public hearing on the CAAR Development wetlands violations until the August 7 meeting. It also approved certificates of compliance for the Bridge Rehabilitation Project at 186 Dresser Street and for 50 Maggie Lane. The minutes of the July 10 meeting were accepted, and the next meeting was set to start at 6:00 p.m.

• Accepted July 10 meeting minutes (M. Doyle abstained, motion passed)
• Issued certificate of compliance for 186 Dresser Street project (unanimous)
• Issued certificate of compliance for 50 Maggie Lane (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on CAAR Development wetlands violations to Aug 7 (unanimous)
• Set next meeting start time to 6:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:00 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss and vote on the acceptance of the Housing Production Plan. The board will also discuss delegates to the CMRPC and a matter regarding the Polish Club at 18 Ballard Ct.

• Vote on acceptance of Housing Production Plan
• Discussion regarding Polish Club at 18 Ballard Ct
• Discussion of delegates to CMRPC

The board approved the minutes from the July 9 meeting. It approved the Polish Club’s ANR, pending a sign‑off from the Town Treasurer. The board voted to postpone its approval of the Housing Production Plan and appointed two members as annual delegates to the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission.

• Approved July 9 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved Polish Club ANR, contingent on Treasurer sign‑off (4‑0, 1 abstain)
• Postponed Planning Board approval of Housing Production Plan (5‑0)
• Appointed A. Bounphisaysonh and D. Payeur as annual CMRPC delegates
• Approved motion to adjourn (5‑0)

Recreation Committee

The Southbridge Recreation Committee will meet to discuss a drafted agreement regarding community gardens. The meeting also includes forums for citizens and members.

• Drafted agreement for community gardens

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees will meet to discuss fund coordination with the town treasurer and manager. The board is reviewing proposed changes to the Art Reception and Emergency Closing policies.

• Coordination with town treasurer for moving funds
• Review of Edwards Family Trusts trusteeship
• Proposed changes to Art Reception Policy
• Proposed Emergency Closing Policy
• Discussion regarding Chess Park

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will vote on the purchase of two vehicles for the School Department. The body will also vote on several personnel appointments and subcommittee reappointments.

• Purchase of one Ford F450XL for $115,000.00
• Purchase of one Ford F150 XL for $50,000.00
• Appointment of Anthony DeSimone as Laborer
• Reappointment of William Cote and Steve Lazo to DPW Subcommittee
• Reappointment of Catherine Bernadone and Delores Larochelle to Planning and Development Subcommittee

The council authorized the purchase of a Ford F450XL and a Ford F150 XL for the School Department, costing a total of $165,000. It also confirmed the appointment of Anthony DeSimone as a laborer and reappointed several members to subcommittees. The council voted to enter Executive Session for collective‑bargaining and real‑property matters.

• Approved purchase of two school vehicles for $165,000 (unanimous)
• Confirmed appointment of Anthony DeSimone as Laborer (unanimous)
• Reappointed William Cote to DPW Subcommittee (unanimous)
• Reappointed Steve Lazo to DPW Subcommittee (unanimous)
• Reappointed Catherine Bernadone to Planning & Development Subcommittee (unanimous)
• Reappointed Delores Larochelle to Planning & Development Subcommittee (unanimous)
• Authorized entry into Executive Session for collective‑bargaining and real‑property discussions (unanimous)
• Set next Town Council meeting for Monday August 11, 2025 at 7:00 PM (unanimous)

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will meet to discuss transportation planning. The body may vote on a specific amendment to the highway project listing within the Transportation Improvement Program.

• Potential approval of Proposed Amendment #8 to the FFY 2025 — 2029 TIP Highway Project Listing

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign the Warrant and Notice of Commitment for 2026 preliminary real estate and personal property taxes. The board will also address any pending abatement reports.

• Review and signing of 2026 Prelims (RE & PP) Warrant and Notice of Commitment
• Review and signing of Abatement reports

Southbridge Airport Commission

The Southbridge Airport Commission will meet to review equipment issues following a lightning storm. The body will also vote on recommending Norman A. Meikle to the Town Manager for the Airport Manager position.

• Vote to recommend Norman A. Meikle for Airport Manager
• Review of equipment issues following a lightning storm

The July 14, 2025 Southbridge Airport Commission meeting agenda listed items such as approving prior minutes, recommending a candidate for Airport Manager, equipment review, member forum, scheduling, and adjournment. The minutes do not record any votes, approvals, denials, or other outcomes for these items. Consequently, no decisions were documented as having been made.

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission is holding a public hearing to discuss amending the FY22-23 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. The proposal seeks to eliminate a 25% matching payment requirement for property owners seeking forgivable loans for facade improvements. This change aims to increase program participation to reduce slum and blight in the downtown area.

• Proposal to eliminate the 25% matching payment for alternative facade improvements
• CDBG FY22-23 Commercial Rehabilitation Program requirements
• Forgivable loans for awning and sign installation (100% coverage)
• Forgivable loans for ADA-compliant access improvements

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning and Development Subcommittee is reviewing several CDBG FY22 Commercial Rehab Project agreements for deferred loans. The body will also discuss the reappointment of two subcommittee members.

• Deferred loan of $44,750 for painting, facade repairs, and awning at 208 Hamilton Street
• Deferred loan of $42,750 for windows, doors, casing, and trim at 1-11 Central Street-#13
• Deferred loan of $24,000 for painting at 101 Central Street
• Deferred loan of $46,500 for windows, doors, facade, and accessibility ramp at 344 Main Street
• Deferred loan of $50,569 for asbestos removal and residing at 18 Central Street

Department of Public Works Subcommittee

The Department of Public Works Subcommittee and Town Council will meet to review a new laborer appointment and two subcommittee member reappointments. The body will determine whether to recommend these actions to the Town Council for final approval.

• Appointment of Anthony DeSimone as Laborer
• Reappointment of William Cote to the DPW Subcommittee through June 30, 2026
• Reappointment of Steve Lazo to the DPW Subcommittee through June 30, 2026

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The board will discuss community outreach strategies, review municipal tree inventory, and examine tree ordinance examples. They will also receive a grant update and tree marking progress report from the right-of-way.

• Review tree ordinance and bylaw examples
• Discuss community outreach strategy (website and Facebook)
• Municipal Tree Inventory review
• Grant Update
• ROW Tree Marking Progress report

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a variance application for a property at 12 Hartwell Terrace. The applicants are seeking a reduction of the side setback to allow for the construction of a garage.

• Variance application for side setback reduction at 12 Hartwell Terrace (Map 53, Lot 178)

Trail Committee

The Trails Committee will meet to discuss updates on the Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail and the Cole Forest/Heritage Trail. The meeting includes a forum for citizens and committee members.

• QVRT status update
• Storage area update
• Cole Forest/Heritage Trail status update

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding wetlands violation remediation plans for two properties. The body will also consider certificates of compliance for the municipal airport.

• Public hearing: wetlands violation remediation plan for 87 Golf Street
• Public hearing: wetlands violation remediation and subdivision plan for 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Request for Certificates of Compliance for Southbridge Municipal Airport Runway Reconstruction (DEP File No. 291-0515)
• Yearly Commission Reorganization

The commission unanimously accepted the June 26 meeting minutes. It issued a Certificate of Compliance for the airport runway reconstruction (DEP File 291-0515). The commission approved a standard Order of Conditions with added requirements for the 87 Golf Street wetland restoration, confirmed oversight by Joe Bellino, and closed that public hearing. It also voted to continue the public hearing on the Highfield Drive and Pleasant Street wetlands remediation project until July 24 at 5:45 p.m.

• Accepted June 26 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for Airport Runway Reconstruction (DEP File 291-0515) (unanimous)
• Approved standard Order of Conditions with added wetland restoration requirements for 87 Golf Street (unanimous)
• Decided Joe Bellino will provide oversight for 87 Golf Street restoration (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on 87 Golf Street project (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on 107-111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street project until July 24, 5:45 p.m. (unanimous)

Animal Control Shelter Building Committee

The Animal Control Shelter Building Committee will discuss the project's design, scope, and preliminary cost estimates. The body may also determine the bid process, timeline, and whether to post the project.

• Review of building project design and scope
• Review of preliminary cost estimates
• Discussion of bid process and timeline
• Potential approval of project posting
• Approval of invoices for the Finance Department

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will vote on the acceptance of the Housing Production Plan and a board reorganization. The meeting includes site plan reviews and a special permit hearing.

• Vote on acceptance of Housing Production Plan
• Special permit hearing for chickens on a property under 5 acres at 9 Maple Terrace
• Site plan review for 300 Main St
• Site plan review for Cornerstone Bank
• Discussion of 100 Central St

The board approved the minutes from the June 18 meeting. It approved a special permit allowing up to six chickens, no roosters, at 9 Maple Terrace, with a condition to obtain other required permits. The board also approved the Cornerstone Bank site plan with conditions on landscaping and wrought‑iron fencing. The board set aside the July 23 meeting to discuss the Housing Production Plan.

• Approved June 18 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Continued Cornerstone Bank presentation after public hearing (5-0)
• Closed the special permit public hearing (5-0)
• Approved special permit for six chickens, no roosters at 9 Maple Terrace (5-0)
• Approved Cornerstone Bank site plan with landscaping and wrought‑iron fence conditions (5-0)
• Did not approve site plan for 300 Main St coffee shop (no vote recorded)
• Recommended owner of 100 Central St file preliminary plan for housing expansion (no vote recorded)
• Set aside July 23 meeting to discuss Housing Production Plan (decision recorded)

Economic Development Commission

The Commission will review member appointments and discuss a potential consultant for the EDC. Members will also strategize on marketing commercial parcels and the creation of another industrial park in town.

• Review of member appointment dates and vacancies
• Discussion on whether a consultant could serve the EDC
• Strategy for creating another industrial park in town
• Review of commercial parcels in town with Mike Colognesi

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to elect a Chair and Vice Chair. The body will also nominate and elect liaisons for ELLPAC and SEPAC and discuss progress toward DESE Plan expectations for committee capacity.

• Election of Committee Chair
• Election of Committee Vice Chair
• ELLPAC Liaison nominations and election
• SEPAC Liaison nominations and election
• Discussion on DESE Plan expectations for school committee capacity

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization is holding a virtual public meeting to discuss Proposed Amendment #8 to the 2025-2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The body is reviewing changes to federal funding sources for two specific highway projects.

• Removal of project 612874 (Shrewsbury-Worcester Bridge Preservation over Lake Quinsigamond and Lake Avenue North) from the TIP due to loss of federal funding; total project cost $23,098,070
• Funding source change for project 612608 (Worcester-Shrewsbury Flood Relief on Route 20, Grafton Street/Route 122 Interchange to Flint Pond) to formula PROTECT funding
• Increase in total project cost for project 612608 to $7,320,880, an increase of $1,711,127

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to review subcommittee reports and conduct administrative votes. The body is deciding on the reappointment of the recording clerk and the adoption of the FY2026 meeting schedule.

• Vote to reappoint Sharon Morrisette as Recording Clerk
• Vote to adopt the proposed FY2026 Town Council Schedule

Town Council

The Town Council is meeting to seat newly elected members and establish leadership for the term. The body will elect a permanent Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson and determine the seating arrangement.

• Swearing-in of Councilors Elect
• Election of Permanent Chairperson
• Election of Vice-Chairperson
• Adoption of permanent seating arrangement

The Southbridge Town Council held a reorganizational meeting and elected Scott Lazo as Chairperson and Michael Montigny as Vice Chairperson, each by an 8‑0 vote. The council also adopted a permanent seating arrangement as directed by the new chair. The meeting was adjourned at 7:14 p.m.

• Elected Scott Lazo Chairperson (8-0 vote)
• Elected Michael Montigny Vice Chairperson (8-0 vote)
• Adopted permanent seating arrangement (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous show of hands)

Southbridge Airport Commission

The Southbridge Airport Commission will review applicants and vote to recommend a finalist for the Airport Manager position to the Town Manager. The commission will also receive an update regarding T hangars.

• Review of applicants and vote for Airport Manager finalist
• Recommendation of Airport Manager candidate to Town Manager
• T hangar update

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Southbridge Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to review a variance application. The board is considering a request to reduce the side setback for the construction of a garage.

• Variance application for 12 Hartwell Terrace (Map 53, Lot 175) to reduce side setback for a garage

Town Council

The Town Council will vote to confirm multiple appointments and reappointments to town boards and commissions. The body will also consider several budget transfer requests and the appropriation of free cash for equipment and projects.

• Appropriation of $450,000 from Free Cash for a new ambulance to replace Medic 3
• Appropriation of $300,000 from Free Cash for TIP Right of Way Engineering/Property Acquisition-Construction
• Appropriation of $200,000 from Free Cash to the OPEB Trust Fund
• Appropriation of $85,000 for a new police vehicle and $50,000 for electronic control devices
• Appropriation of $46,000 for a new Ford Ranger pickup truck for Solid Waste and Recycling/Inspections

The council voted to confirm a series of appointments, most by unanimous show‑of‑hands votes. The reappointment of Maureen Doyle to the Agricultural Commission passed 7‑1, with Councilor Marketti opposing. Other confirmations included members of the Airport Commission, Board of Health, and various town offices.

• Confirmed John Szugda to Airport Commission (unanimous)
• Confirmed Richard Clemence to Airport Commission (unanimous)
• Confirmed Charbel Daou to Board of Health (unanimous)
• Confirmed Malika Hill to Board of Health (unanimous)
• Reappointed Daniel Wasiuk as Director of Health (6‑2)
• Reappointed Maureen Doyle to Agricultural Commission (7‑1)
• Reappointed Maureen Doyle to Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Confirmed Louise Pappas to Council on Aging (unanimous)

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority will review monthly financial reports and program updates. The board is scheduled to vote on construction completions and a new contract for exterior repairs.

• Contract for JD&D Construction for $324,000.00 to replace porch railings, siding, and windows at School Street
• Certificate of Substantial Completion for Project 278083 Cross Street Bathroom
• Certificate of Final Completion for Project 278083 Cross Street Bathroom
• Revision to the Southbridge Housing Authority Comprehensive Maintenance Plan
• Review of EOHLC Public Housing Notice 2025-07

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will meet to review grant updates and tree marking progress. The board will discuss a community outreach strategy and the municipal tree inventory. Members will also review examples of tree ordinances and bylaws.

• Review of ROW Tree Marking progress
• Discussion of community outreach via website and Facebook
• Municipal Tree Inventory update
• Review of Tree Ordinance and Bylaw examples

Board of Health

The Board of Health will receive reports on infectious disease counts and blight. The board will also review solid waste and recyclable materials updates and sign related disposal commitment documents.

• Update on COVID and other infectious/contagious disease counts
• Blight update
• Report on curbside items, violations, and contract issues for solid waste
• Review and signing of Solid Waste and Disposal commitment documents

Liquor Licensing Board

The Liquor Licensing Board will hold a public hearing regarding a license application. The board is considering the transfer and relocation of a Package Store Beer and Wine License.

• Application for transfer and relocation of a Package Store Beer and Wine License for Bhamini, Inc. d/b/a Country Farms store at 53 Hamilton St.

The board accepted the minutes from the April 24 and December 12, 2024 meetings. It approved a one‑day liquor license (ODLL‑25‑4) for a St. John Paul Parish fundraiser on June 28, 2025. The board set the next meeting for August 7, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. and adjourned at 2:00 p.m.

• Accepted April 24, 2025 meeting minutes (3 in favor, 1 abstention)
• Accepted December 12, 2024 meeting minutes (adopted as introduced)
• Approved one‑day liquor license ODLL‑25‑4 for St. John Paul Parish fundraiser (adopted as introduced)
• Approved next meeting date of August 7, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. (adopted as introduced)
• Approved adjournment at 2:00 p.m. (adopted as introduced)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will meet to approve minutes from April 17, 2025, and hear an Administrator's Report. The board is scheduled to vote on the appointment of the Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, and Clerk for fiscal year 2026.

• Vote to approve WRTA Advisory Board Officers for FY'26 (Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, and Clerk)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding wetlands violation remediation plans for two properties. The body will also consider certificates of compliance for airport projects and discuss beaver issues at the high school.

• Public hearing for CAAR Development, LLC regarding 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Public hearing for Lawson Villa Realty Trust and Scott Lazo regarding 87 Golf Street
• Certificates of Compliance for 2021 Southbridge Municipal Airport Vegetation Management Plan
• Certificates of Compliance for Southbridge Municipal Airport Runway Reconstruction
• Discussion of beaver issues at Southbridge High School

The Conservation Commission approved four motions, all passing unanimously. They extended two public hearings on wetland remediation projects to July 10, and they approved a full certificate of compliance for the Southbridge Municipal Airport vegetation management plan. The meeting also accepted the June 12 minutes and set the next meeting for July 10.

• Accepted June 12 minutes (unanimous)
• Extended CAAR Development public hearing to July 10 at 5:45 p.m. (unanimous)
• Extended Lawson Villa Realty Trust public hearing to July 10 at 6:15 p.m. (unanimous)
• Issued full certificate of compliance for airport vegetation management plan (unanimous)

Public Hearing for Water and Sewer Rates

The Town Manager will conduct a public hearing to discuss proposed rate changes for water, sewer, solid waste, and recycling curbside services. Any approved changes would take effect for bills issued as of July 1, 2025.

• Proposed Water and Sewer Rate changes
• Proposed Solid Waste and Recycling Curbside Rate changes

Retirement Board

The Southbridge Retirement Board will vote on payroll and accounts payable for June 2025. The board will also decide on several retirement approvals, fund refunds, and transfers of service for former school employees.

• Vote to approve June 2025 warrant for $547,345.27
• Discussion of PERAC’s response to a Police Union stipend proposal
• Vote to approve superannuation retirement of Angela Tarquinio
• Vote on liability for part-time service rendered in another retirement system
• Administrator’s FY 2026 COLA and evaluation

The board accepted the May 29, 2025 minutes and approved several refunds, transfers, and a superannuation retirement. It also approved a payroll warrant totaling $547,345.27. Liability for part‑time service and a police union stipend proposal will be voted on at the next meeting. The next meeting is set for July 31, 2025.

• Approved acceptance of May 29 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved superannuation retirement of Angela Tarquinio (unanimous)
• Approved refund of deductions for Jose Alicea (unanimous)
• Approved partial refund & rollover for Morgan Ferguson (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of deductions for Jenny Denton to Mass Teachers’ Retirement System (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of deductions for Destanee Schaefer to Hampshire County Retirement System (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of deductions for Tayler Wilson to Worcester Regional Retirement System (unanimous)
• Approved payroll warrant W062025 for $547,345.27 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss strategy regarding litigation or collective bargaining. The commission will adjourn while still in Executive Session.

• Executive Session regarding Pleasant Hills

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning and Development Subcommittee will review several appointments and reappointments made by the Town Manager. The body will decide whether to recommend these individuals to the Town Council for final confirmation.

• Appointment of George Steeves to the Conservation Commission
• Appointment of Jay Zebryk to the Historical Commission
• Reappointments to the Planning Board for Corey Bellrose, David Payeur, and Terry Lynn Hensel
• Change of appointment for Arno Bounphasaysohn from full member to alternate member of the Planning Board
• Reappointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals for Lynn Bertrand and Patrick Spinelli

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees will meet to review financial reports and the Library Director's report. The board will discuss coordination with town officials and the status of a grant application for accessibility upgrades.

• MA Office of Disability Municipal ADA Accessibility Grant application for $250k for elevator modernization
• Dexter-Russell donation to the library
• Reappointment forms for bank-appointed trustees
• Impact of IMLS and grant cuts on statewide databases and services
• Southbridge Business Partnership meeting scheduled for August 25

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign reports for tax abatements and exemptions. The board will also discuss the Warrant and Notice of Commitment for 2026 preliminary real estate and personal property taxes.

• FY2025 Real Estate & Personal Property Abatement applications
• Warrant & Notice of Commitment for 2026 Prelims (RE & PP)
• Abatement/Exemption reports

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The Education and Human Services Subcommittee will review several Town Manager appointments to local boards and commissions. The body will also discuss multiple budget transfer requests and a grant for summer programming.

• Appointments to Board of Health, Council on Aging, Commission on Disability, Cultural Council, Recreation Commission, and Trails Committee
• Health Department transfer requests of $450.00 and $500.00 for health inspector training
• Curbside transfer requests of $1,000.00 for longevity and $3,000.00 for billing program costs
• Library transfer requests of $4,750.00 for building repair and $2,500.00 for electricity
• Acceptance of a $7,000.00 United Way grant for Recreation Department summer programming

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will hold three public hearings to consider special permit applications. These requests involve land use for livestock, short-term rentals, and a marijuana establishment.

• Special permit for chickens on a property under 5 acres at 9 Maple Terrace
• Special permit for an Adult Use Marijuana Delivery Operator and Product Manufacturing Establishment at 914 Main Street
• Special permit for a short-term rental and livestock on a property under 5 acres at 16 Ellis Road

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold several special permit hearings regarding land use and zoning. The board is also voting on the acceptance of the Housing Production Plan.

• Vote on acceptance of Housing Production Plan
• Site Plan Review for 22 Hamilton St
• Special permit for Adult Use Marijuana Establishment at 918 Main Street
• Special permit for short-term rental and livestock at 16 Ellis Road
• Special permit for residential use at 39 Elm Street

The Planning Board approved a motion to change the Zoning Table of Uses, allowing basic processing and manufacturing in Office Research zones. It also approved special permits for a marijuana business relocation and for short‑term rentals with livestock. The chicken coop hearing was continued to July 9, and the residential use hearing for 39 Elm Street was closed with the permit decision postponed.

• Continued chicken coop permit hearing to July 9 (7-0)
• Approved special permit for Green Path marijuana relocation at 918 Main St (7-0)
• Approved special permit for two short‑term rentals and livestock at 16 Ellis Rd (7-0)
• Closed residential use hearing for 39 Elm St; permit decision postponed (4-3)
• Changed zoning table to permit manufacturing in Office Research zones (7-0)

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will discuss updates to the Transportation Improvement Program and the Unified Planning Work Program. The body will also receive presentations on a transportation study and a bike audit.

• Potential release of Proposed Amendment #8 to the FFY 2025—2029 TIP Highway Project Listing for 21-day public review
• Potential approval of FFY 2026 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP)
• Presentation on 290/Vernon Street Transportation Study
• Presentation on CMRPC Bike Audit
• Staff updates on MetroMobility E-Bike Sharing, Housing Transportation Study, and SS4A

Scholarship Committee

The School Committee will meet to discuss progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations for building committee capacity. The meeting includes updates on summer hiring and programs, as well as several recognitions.

• Proclamation honoring Jared Figueroa and Judy Maisonet for Latino Educators SHINE Awards
• Recognition of Southbridge Academy Nurse Stephanie Fiorucci
• Recognition for retirees
• Update on summer hiring and programs
• Discussion on DESE plan expectations for School Committee capacity

School Committee

The Southbridge School Committee will meet to discuss progress toward meeting DESE plan expectations for building committee capacity. The meeting also includes updates on summer hiring and programs.

• Proclamation honoring Jared Figueroa and Judy Maisonet for Latino Educators SHINE Awards
• Recognition of Southbridge Academy Nurse Stephanie Fiorucci
• Recognition of retirees
• Update on summer hiring and programs
• Discussion on DESE plan expectations to build School Committee capacity

Town Council

The Town Council will consider adding bylaws to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a matter of right in certain residential districts. The body will also vote on several commercial rehab loans and the creation of a Performance Surety Deposit Revolving Fund.

• Proposed zoning amendment to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) up to 900 square feet
• Five CDBG FY22 Commercial Rehab deferred loans totaling $214,569 for properties on Hamilton Street, Central Street, and Main Street
• Application for FY26 PARC grant of $140,000 with a $42,000 match for the Marcos Rios playground at Charlton Street School
• Transfer of $100,000 from CDBG Code Enforcement to a Social Service activity for emergency grant payments to prevent evictions
• Installation of All Way Stop Signs at Sayles Street/South Street and Mechanic Street/Optical Drive

The council unanimously approved several agreements, including two All Way Stop Memoranda of Agreement with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, a Host Community Agreement with Mellow Tiger LLC, and a $100,000 amendment to the FY22‑23 CDBG grant for senior emergency housing assistance. It also approved a FY26 PARC grant of $140,000 to build the Marcos Rios playground and accepted labor and material donations for that playground project. All motions passed by a unanimous show of hands.

• Approved All Way Stop MOA for Sayles & South Streets (unanimous)
• Approved All Way Stop MOA for Mechanic & Optical (unanimous)
• Approved Host Community Agreement with Mellow Tiger LLC (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to FY22‑23 CDBG grant transferring $100,000 for senior emergency housing (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 PARC grant $140,000 for Marcos Rios playground (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of labor and material donations for Marcos Rios playground (unanimous)

Redevelopment Authority

The Southbridge Redevelopment Authority is meeting to discuss the next steps for a major amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan. The body will also schedule its next meeting.

• Next steps for the Urban Renewal Plan — Major Amendment

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will review progress on tree marking and the municipal tree inventory. Members will discuss a community outreach strategy and examine examples of tree ordinances and bylaws.

• Review of ROW tree marking progress
• Discussion of community outreach via website and Facebook
• Arbor Day observances at Charlton Street, Eastford Road, and West Street elementary schools
• Review of municipal tree inventory
• Discussion of tree ordinance and bylaw examples

Trail Committee

The Trails Committee will meet to review status updates on local trail projects. The agenda includes discussions regarding the Westville Dam tour, QVRT, and Cole Forest.

• Westville Dam Tour
• QVRT status
• Cole Forest status update
• Storage area update
• Nomination of Secretary

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding wetlands violation remediation plans for two different properties. The body will also consider certificates of compliance for airport projects.

• Public hearing for CAAR Development, LLC regarding 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Public hearing for Lawson Villa Realty Trust and Scott Lazo regarding 87 Golf Street
• Request for Certificates of Compliance for the 2021 Southbridge Municipal Airport Vegetation Management Plan
• Request for Certificates of Compliance for the Southbridge Municipal Airport Runway Reconstruction

The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 5th meeting. It also voted unanimously to continue the public hearing on the CAAR Development wetlands remediation and subdivision plan until June 26 at 5:45 p.m. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Accepted May 5th meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on CAAR Development to June 26 at 5:45 p.m (unanimous)

Recreation Committee

The Southbridge Recreation Committee will meet to discuss a drafted agreement regarding community gardens. The meeting also includes forums for citizens and members.

• Drafted agreement for community gardens

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign abatement and exemption reports. The board is scheduled to discuss the MV 2025 Commitment #3 and related warrants. The meeting includes a taxpayer forum.

• MV 2025 Commitment #3 in the amount of $120,007.08
• FY2025 Real Estate & Personal Property Abatement applications
• Abatement/Exemption reports

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization is holding a virtual public meeting to review the Draft 2026 Unified Planning Work Program. The body will provide an overview of the draft and accept public comment and input.

• Overview of the Draft 2026 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP)
• Acceptance of public comment and input

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission is holding a public hearing to discuss amending the FY22-23 Community Development Block Grant Program. The proposal seeks to reallocate unspent 2024 Code Enforcement funds to create a social service program for renters aged 65 and older facing eviction.

• Proposal to reallocate approximately $100,000 in unspent 2024 Code Enforcement funds
• Proposed emergency grant payments to landlords for eligible renters aged 65+
• Public hearing on CDBG FY22-23 Grant Amendment

Southbridge Airport Commission

The Southbridge Airport Commission will vote on accepting a MADOT grant for hangar design and review private hangar land leases. The body will also discuss rental rates for fiscal 2026 and provide updates on the airport manager search and air show date.

• Vote to accept MADOT engineering/design grant for T hangar ($240,000 in FY2025 and $33,175 in FY2026)
• Vote to send private hangar land lease review to Town Manager and council
• Vote on annual review of rental rates for fiscal 2026
• Update on Air Show date
• Update on Airport Managers search

Council of the Whole

The Council of the Whole will meet to discuss and provide input on a draft Prioritization Plan. The plan was prepared by BSC Group regarding Safe Streets for All/Complete Streets.

• Review of Safe Streets for All/Complete Streets draft Prioritization Plan by BSC Group

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will meet to review and provide input on a draft Prioritization Plan. The plan concerns Safe Streets for All/Complete Streets and was prepared by BSC Group.

• Review of Safe Streets for All/Complete Streets draft Prioritization Plan by BSC Group

The Town Council reviewed a Safe Streets for All draft prioritization plan, discussing six highlighted projects but taking no formal action on them. Councilor Chenier moved to adjourn, and the motion passed unanimously by a show of hands. The meeting concluded at 7 p.m.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning and Development Subcommittee will discuss a new Host Community Agreement with Mellow Tiger LLC. The body will also review several applications for FY22 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Mini-Entitlement funds for rehab and code enforcement.

• Host Community Agreement with Mellow Tiger LLC
• CDBG Mini-Entitlement FY22 funds for $44,750.00
• CDBG Mini-Entitlement FY22 funds for $24,000.00
• CDBG Mini-Entitlement FY22 funds for $46,500.00
• CDBG Mini-Entitlement FY22 funds for $50,569.00

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue a public hearing regarding a special permit for residential use at 39 Elm Street. The board will also conduct site plan reviews for two properties and receive a presentation on the Housing Production Plan.

• Special Permit public hearing for residential use at 39 Elm Street (Map 47, Lot 213)
• Site Plan Review for 22 Hamilton St
• Site Plan Review for 338 Main St
• Housing Production Plan presentation by CMRPC

The Planning Board lacked a quorum to decide on the special permit for 39 Elm Street, so members voted to continue the public hearing until June 18. A motion to adjourn the meeting was also approved.

• Motion to continue the special permit public hearing until June 18 carried (M. Loin, M. Colognesi, A. Bounphasaysonh, D. Payeur voted in favor)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (M. Loin, M. Colognesi, D. Payeur, A. Bounphasaysonh voted in favor)

Town Council

The Town Council will consider a second reading of zoning bylaw amendments regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The body will also vote on several police and traffic constable appointments and various department fund transfers.

• Proposed zoning amendments for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) including size and parking limits
• Payment of $140,403.82 to Town of Charlton for FY 24 water supply IMA
• Appropriation of $934,715.18 from Water Retained Earnings to Water Stabilization Fund #0845
• Installation of rumble strips and signage in the 200-300 block of Worcester Street
• Fire Department transfer requests including $35,000 for overtime

The Town Council unanimously approved a $934,715.18 appropriation from Water Retained Earnings to the Water Stabilization Fund. It also approved a $140,403.82 payment to the Town of Charlton under the intermunicipal water agreement and transferred the same amount to cover the FY 24 IMA fee. Additional unanimous approvals included a facility‑use agreement with the YMCA for the Petro Pool and several police and fire department budget transfers.

• Approved $934,715.18 transfer to Water Stabilization Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $140,403.82 IMA payment to Town of Charlton (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $140,403.82 from Water Retained Earnings to pay IMA fee (unanimous)
• Approved YMCA facility‑use agreement for Petro Pool Tuesdays July 8–Aug 5, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Police Department transfer of $500 to Prisoner Maintenance (unanimous)
• Approved Police Department transfer of $10,000 to Vehicle Repair (unanimous)
• Approved Fire Department transfer of $35,000 to Overtime (unanimous)
• Approved Fire Department transfer of $5,000 to Electricity (unanimous)

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority will review financial reports and program updates. The board is scheduled to vote on three specific project change orders and a wage match approval.

• Vote on Change Order #2 for 45 Cross Street Bathroom ($1,334.00)
• Vote on Change Order #1 for 74 Litchfield Ave Porch Repair ($1,057.57)
• Vote on Change Order #2 for 74 Litchfield Ave Porch Repair ($3,494.58)
• Vote regarding Wage Match
• Review of EOHLC Public Housing Notices 2025-05 and 2025-06

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will meet to review grant updates and the progress of ROW tree marking. The board will discuss community outreach strategies and a municipal tree inventory. Members will also review examples of tree ordinances, bylaws, and the Shade Tree Commission.

• Community outreach for Arbor Day observances at Charlton Street, Eastford Road, and West Street elementary schools
• Review of municipal tree inventory
• Discussion of tree ordinance and bylaw examples
• Update on ROW tree marking progress

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will review grant updates and the progress of right-of-way tree marking. Members will discuss a community outreach strategy and review examples of tree ordinances and bylaws.

• Community outreach strategy for website and Facebook
• Arbor Day observances at Charlton Street, Eastford Road, and West Street elementary schools
• Municipal Tree Inventory update
• Review of Tree Ordinance / Bylaw examples and Shade Tree Commission

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board will vote on a May 2025 warrant and the 2024 Financial Statement Audit. The board is also deciding on several individual retirement approvals, refunds, and service credit transfers.

• Vote to approve May 2025 warrant for $653,083.72
• Vote to approve 2024 Financial Statement Audit by Terenzio Volpicelli
• Vote to approve military buy back for Michelle Hill for $24,800.08
• Vote to approve superannuation retirements for Robert Jones, Jr., Margaret Corsi, and Cristina Cooke
• Vote to approve refunds of accumulated deductions for Tamiah Hutchful, Daniela Oliveras, and Luis Torres

The Southbridge Retirement Board accepted the April 24, 2025 minutes and approved the 2024 financial audit. It also approved several retiree superannuation actions, refunds, transfers, and a military buy‑back. Finally, the board approved the May 2025 payroll warrant for $653,083.72.

• Accepted April 24, 2025 meeting minutes (all members voted in favor)
• Approved 2024 financial statement audit by Roselli, Clark & Associates (all members voted in favor)
• Approved superannuation retirement of Robert Jones Jr. (all members voted in favor)
• Approved superannuation retirement of Margaret Corsi (all members voted in favor)
• Approved refunds of accumulated deductions for Tamiah Hutchful, Daniela Oliveras, and Luis Torres (all members voted in favor)
• Approved transfer of accumulated deductions for Lynn Coleman to Mass Teachers’ Retirement System (all members voted in favor)
• Approved military buy‑back for Michelle Hill costing $24,800.08 (all members voted in favor)
• Approved May 2025 payroll warrant of $653,083.72 (all members voted in favor, Mrs. Hill abstained)

Town Council

The Town Council will vote on the FY 2026 General Fund Operating Budget and three enterprise fund budgets. The meeting includes votes on funding for sewer, water, and solid waste services, as well as potential pay increases.

• FY 2026 General Fund Operating Budget of $72,657,226.00
• FY 2026 Sewer Enterprise Fund Budget of $5,424,143.00
• FY 2026 Water Enterprise Fund Budget of $4,507,977.00
• FY 2026 Solid Waste and Disposal Enterprise Fund Budget of $2,993,082.00
• 2% increases for Schedule 1 and Schedule 5 effective July 1, 2025

The May 29, 2025 special town council meeting agenda listed votes on the FY 2026 General Fund budget, Sewer, Water, and Solid Waste Enterprise Fund budgets, and schedule revisions. The minutes do not include any vote tallies or outcomes, so no decisions can be confirmed.

Town Council

The Town Manager will hold a public hearing regarding the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget and the Five Year Capital Improvement Program. Residents can review the budget and capital program documents at Town Hall or on the town website.

• Proposed FY2026 Total Budget: $85,627,442
• Proposed School Department budget: $38,697,027
• Proposed General Government budget: $19,825,990
• Proposed Public Safety budget: $9,018,485
• FY2026 Capital Improvement Program funding and five-year plan

Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee

The Protection of Persons and Property Subcommittee will discuss several personnel appointments for the police and fire departments. The body will also review multiple budget transfer requests and a proposal for road safety improvements on Worcester Street.

• Appointments of Justin L. Ryel and Marylee Panient as permanent full-time Police Officers
• Appointment of five Special Traffic Constables for 3-year terms through June 30, 2028
• Proposal to add rumble strips and signage in the 200-300 block of Worcester Street, funded by United Lens Co.
• Fire Department budget transfer of $35,000 from Salaries/Wages to Overtime
• Proposal to declare the Fire Department Mobile Decontamination Unit (MDU) Trailer as surplus equipment

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees will review the library director's report and financial updates. The board is discussing the impact of IMLS and statewide grant cuts on databases and services.

• Impact of IMLS and statewide grant cuts on databases and services
• Modifications to MAR with MBLC
• Chess Park
• 501(c)(3) status of the Friends of the Jacob Edwards Library

Planning Board

The Southbridge Planning Board will continue public hearings on two special permit applications and conduct site plan reviews for two properties. The meeting is hybrid, requiring a roll-call vote for any decisions made remotely.

• Special Permit Public Hearing (continued) for livestock keeping under 5 acres at 53 Pleasant Street, filed by Kelly Rodriguez
• Special Permit Public Hearing (continued) for residential use at 39 Elm Street, filed by Robervan Silveira Santos
• Site Plan Review for 22 Hamilton Street
• Site Plan Review for 338 Main Street

The Southbridge Planning Board approved the minutes from the May 7 meeting. It then approved a conditional accessory non‑residential use at 757 Main St, a special permit for six chickens at 53 Pleasant St, and a bakery site plan at 338 Main St. The board postponed the special permit hearing for a residential project at 39 Elm St until the next meeting.

• Approved May 7 meeting minutes (unanimous vote)
• Approved 757 Main St ANR contingent on proof of payment (unanimous vote)
• Approved special permit for six chickens at 53 Pleasant St with standard conditions (unanimous vote)
• Approved bakery site plan at 338 Main St as presented (unanimous vote)
• Continued public hearing for residential special permit at 39 Elm St to June 4 (unanimous vote)

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will meet to vote on updates to highway and transit project listings. The body will also discuss the Unified Planning Work Program and a food access study for Oxford. Staff will provide updates on regional housing and transportation studies.

• Proposed Amendment #6 to FFY 2025-2029 TIP Highway Project Listing
• Proposed Adjustment #7 to FFY 2025-2029 Transit Project Listing
• Approval of FFY 2026 to FFY 2030 TIP
• Proposed Amendment #2 to FFY 2025 UPWP
• Vernon Street/I-290 Transportation Study update

Board of Assessors

This is a routine procedural meeting of the Board of Assessors. The board will review and sign abatement/exemption reports and FY2025 Real Estate & Personal Property abatement applications, if any. The agenda also includes a taxpayer forum, acceptance of minutes, and new business.

• Accept minutes from previous meeting
• Open Taxpayer forum
• Review and sign abatement/exemption reports
• Review and sign FY2025 Real Estate & Personal Property abatement applications
• Board of Assessors Open Forum

Town Council

The Town Council will vote on appointments, funding transfers, and multiple grants, including a $285,600 appropriation for street reconstruction easements and a $1.7M airport hangar project. A first reading of zoning bylaw amendments to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by-right in single-family districts will be reviewed.

• First reading of zoning bylaw amendments to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by-right in single-family districts (Item 31)
• Vote to authorize $285,600 for easements and property acquisition for the Central, Foster, Hook, and Hamilton Street Reconstruction Project (Items 12-13)
• Vote to amend airport hangar grant application, increasing total cost to $1,698,800 with town match of $157,573 (Item 14)
• Vote to approve $94,800 Community Development Block Grant housing rehabilitation loan for de-leading, repairs, and roofing (Item 15)
• Confirmation of Robert Lamothe as Director of Public Works for a three-year term (Item 11)

The council approved the minutes of the April 28, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. It also confirmed the Town Manager’s appointment of Bonnie McDonald to the Conservation Commission, again unanimously. A motion was made to confirm Robert Lamothe as Director of Public Works, but the minutes do not record the vote outcome.

• Approved April 28, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Confirmed appointment of Bonnie McDonald to Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Motion to confirm appointment of Robert Lamothe as Director of Public Works (outcome not recorded)

Redevelopment Authority

The Southbridge Redevelopment Authority will review the process for a major amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan. The body will also consider approving six individuals to participate in that review process and receive an update on One Stop for Growth applications.

• Next steps for the Urban Renewal Plan — Major Amendment
• Approval of Joe Diaz, Luella Perez, Joe Stephens, Flor Nichols, Melony Collins, and Esteban Carrasco to participate in the URP review process
• Update on One Stop for Growth applications

The Southbridge Redevelopment Authority approved the March 13, 2025 meeting minutes with corrections (vote 4‑0). It also approved eight individuals to serve on the Urban Renewal Plan review process (vote 4‑0). The next meeting was set for July 10 at 6:30 PM, and the session was adjourned (vote 4‑0).

• Approved March 13 minutes (4-0)
• Approved URP review participants Joe Diaz, Luella Perez, Joe Stephens, Flor Nichols, Melony Collins, Esteban Carrasco, Julia Cornwell, Maria Torres (4-0)
• Scheduled next meeting for July 10 at 6:30 PM
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Health

The Southbridge Board of Health will meet to discuss routine updates from the Director of Health on COVID-19 case counts and blight issues, and from the Town Agent on solid waste curbside violations and contracts. They will also consider minutes from the previous meeting and set the next meeting date.

• Update on COVID-19 and other infectious disease counts and tracing
• Blight update from Director of Health
• Review and sign documents for Solid Waste and Disposal commitment
• Curbside items, violation and contract issues update
• Consider and accept minutes from April 10, 2025

The Board of Health unanimously approved a $240 payment for an overbilling issue and a $624,680 commitment for the solid waste and disposal contract. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved $240 payment for overbilling (unanimous)
• Approved $624,680 solid waste contract commitment (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will convene for a hybrid meeting on May 15, 2025. The agenda includes approval of the April 17, 2025 minutes, an administrator's report from Rickman, and a public comment period. No other substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

• Approval of minutes from April 17, 2025
• Administrator's Report (Rickman)
• Business from the public – public comment period
• Other administration items
• Potential roll call vote to adjourn

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will continue a public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for wetlands violation remediation and a subdivision plan at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street. Commissioners will also receive an update on an enforcement action at 87 Golf Street. No new business items are known at this time.

• Continuation of public hearing for wetlands violation remediation and subdivision plan (CAAR Development, LLC) at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Update on enforcement action at 87 Golf Street

The commission unanimously accepted the minutes from the May 1 meeting. It also voted to continue the public hearing on the CAAR Development wetlands remediation until June 12, to keep issuing fines as schedule allows, and to have K. Yoder arrange a site meeting with the DEP, EPA and project principals. The next commission meeting was scheduled for June 12.

• Accepted May 1 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on 107-111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street until June 12 (unanimous)
• Authorized ongoing fines as K. Yoder’s schedule permits (unanimous)
• Directed K. Yoder to set up site meeting with DEP, EPA and project principals (unanimous)

Department of Public Works Subcommittee

The joint DPW Subcommittee/Town Council will review and recommend to the Town Council the appointment of Robert Lamothe as Director of Public Works for a three-year term. They will also consider a $10,000 stipend to DPW Operations Manager Peter Provencher for extra duties during FY25. Three transfers totaling $85,000 from Sewer Capital Reserve to other sewer accounts are up for discussion and recommendation.

• Appointment of Robert Lamothe as Director of Public Works for a three-year term starting July 1, 2025
• $10,000 stipend to DPW Operations Manager Peter Provencher for additional duties due to vacancy
• Transfer $50,000 from Sewer Capital Reserve to Sewer Solid Waste Collection
• Transfer $15,000 from Sewer Capital Reserve to Sewer Solid Tech Support Capital
• Transfer $20,000 from Sewer Capital Reserve to Sewer Collection System

Traffic Commission

The Southbridge Traffic Commission will consider approving the minutes from March 24, 2025, and continue discussions on traffic safety improvements. Old business includes adding rumble strips and signage near United Lens on Worcester Street and a left-turn/yield signal at Main & Elm Streets. No decisions have been made yet; these are ongoing discussions.

• Continue discussion of rumble strips and signage near United Lens on Worcester Street
• Continue discussion of adding a left-turn/yield signal at Main & Elm Streets intersection
• Consider and accept meeting minutes from March 24, 2025

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to conduct a visioning exercise for future agenda topics. The body will also discuss progress regarding expectations in the DESE Plan to build School Committee capacity.

• Future Meeting Agenda Topics Visioning Exercise
• Discussion of DESE Plan to build School Committee Capacity

School Committee

The Southbridge School Committee will convene at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers to introduce a new receiver, outline future meeting agenda topics through a visioning exercise, and approve the upcoming meeting schedule. No formal decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning and Development Subcommittee will discuss and vote on recommending several items to the Town Council, including a $285,600 land acquisition and borrowing plan for the Central, Foster, Hook, and Hamilton streets reconstruction project. Members will also review a $94,800 housing rehabilitation loan contract for de-leading and roofing, a $40,600 transfer for easements, and applications for downtown parking study and energy management grants.

• Review of $285,600 to acquire easements and land for the Central, Foster, Hook, and Hamilton streets reconstruction project, with eminent domain authority
• Review of a $94,800 Community Development Block Grant-funded housing rehabilitation loan ($85,500 de-leading/repairs + $9,300 roofing)
• Transfer of $40,600 from Capital Stabilization to fund easement and property acquisition for a TIP project
• Discussion of applying for a Massachusetts Downtown Initiative grant to conduct a downtown parking study
• Acceptance of National Grid's Municipal Energy Manager grant totaling $39,144 per year for 2025–2027

Southbridge Airport Commission

The Southbridge Airport Commission will discuss and vote on several items, including the cancellation of the May 17, 2025 air show with an update on a new date, a review of a private hangar land lease to be sent to the town council, an annual review of rental rates, and a vote to dispose of excess equipment (a 7 yd loader bucket, diesel-powered bucket snow blower, and 14 ft bat-wing mower deck). The commission will also approve minutes from April 14, 2025, and receive updates on the T-hangar project and airport manager search.

• Cancellation of May 17, 2025 Air Show; update on new date
• Private hangar land lease review and vote to send to council
• Annual review of rental rates with vote
• Vote to dispose of excess equipment: 7 yd loader bucket, diesel-powered snow blower, 14 ft bat-wing mower deck
• Update on T-hangar project and airport manager search

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will discuss grant updates, right-of-way tree marking progress, and community outreach strategies including Arbor Day observances at local schools. The board will also review a municipal tree inventory and discuss tree ordinance/bylaw examples and a potential shade tree commission.

• Discuss Arbor Day observances at Charlton Street, Eastford Road, and West Street elementary schools
• Review municipal tree inventory status
• Discuss tree ordinance / bylaw examples and Shade Tree Commission
• Grant update for urban forestry projects
• ROW tree marking progress update

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will discuss updates on town projects and review commercial areas in Southbridge. The meeting includes a report from Hudson’s Planning and Development Director, Kristina Johnson.

• Review of commercial areas in Southbridge
• Updates on Town projects
• Report from Kristina Johnson, Hudson’s Planning and Development Director
• Review of member appointment dates and potential vacancies

Trail Committee

The Southbridge Trails Committee will review and discuss items including the April meeting minutes, a trail assessment from an April 21 walk, and status updates on QVRT, storage area, and cole Forest. Members will also plan a May 10 trail walk with Friends of Southbridge Trails, which includes an Army Corps of Engineers Inner Dam Tour.

• Review and acceptance of April 17 meeting minutes
• Trail assessment review from April 21 walk through
• QVRT status update
• Status update on cole Forest
• Upcoming May 10 trail walk with Friends of Southbridge Trails at Heritage Trail, meeting at West Street School soccer field parking lot; Army Corps of Engineer Inner Dam Tour included

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The joint Education and Human Services Subcommittee will review and discuss the FY2026 Southbridge School Department Budget of $38,697,027 and may vote to forward it to the Town Council as presented. The meeting is open to the public, with voting limited to subcommittee members.

• FY2026 Southbridge School Department Budget: $38,697,027
• Potential motion to submit budget to Town Council as presented

Planning Board

This meeting includes two public hearings for special permits: one for keeping livestock at 53 Pleasant Street and another for residential use at 39 Elm Street. The board will also discuss a recommendation of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw to the Town Council and receive an update on the site plan review for 22 Hamilton. Other business includes approval of minutes and an Approval Not Required item for Old Dudley Road.

• Special permit public hearing for livestock at 53 Pleasant Street (Kelly Rodriguez, applicant)
• Special permit public hearing for residential use at 39 Elm Street (Robervan Silveira Santos, applicant)
• Discussion of recommendation of ADU Bylaw to Town Council
• Update to 22 Hamilton Site Plan Review
• Approval Not Required for Old Dudley Road

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the March 19 and April 2 meetings. It approved an “Approval Not Required” plan to split a property on Old Dudley Road. The Board voted to continue two special‑permit hearings until May 21 and adopted language allowing short‑term rentals for ADUs only with a special permit. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved March 19 minutes (all members voted in favor)
• Approved April 2 minutes with correction (all members except C. Acly voted in favor; motion passed)
• Approved “Approval Not Required” plan for George Rizner’s Old Dudley Rd property split (all members voted in favor)
• Continued Kelly Rodriguez livestock special‑permit hearing to May 21, 6:45 pm (all members voted in favor)
• Continued Robervan Silveira Santos residential‑use hearing to May 21, 7:15 pm (all members voted in favor)
• Added “unless approved by Special Permit” language to ADU Bylaw short‑term‑rental prohibition (all members voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all members voted in favor)

Recreation Committee

The Southbridge Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss a drafted agreement for community gardens. Other agenda items include roll call, citizen and member forums, and director announcements.

• Community gardens — drafted agreement under review

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will hold a virtual public meeting to accept comments on proposed amendments to the UPWP and TIP, and the draft 2026-2030 TIP. The meeting covers a $8,268,663 cost increase for Project 613208 (bridge preservation on I-190 in Worcester) and a $150,000 budget shift for a Regional Housing and Transportation Plan. Public comments are due by May 7, 2025.

• Cost increase of $8,268,663 for Project 613208 – Worcester – Bridge Preservation of 11 Structures on I-190 and Ramps, new total $15,768,663
• Proposed reduction of FFY 2025 UPWP Element 2.5 Regional Housing and Transportation Plan budget from $250,000 to $100,000, with $150,000 moved to FFY 2026
• Draft 2026–2030 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) released for 21-day public review and comment
• Public hearing on Amendment #6 to the 2025–2029 TIP and Amendment #2 to the FFY 2025 UPWP
• Written comments accepted until 4:30 PM on Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Historical Commission

The Southbridge Historical Commission will discuss repairs to the Clock Tower, vote on a CDBG commercial rehabilitation project at 18 Central Street, and consider a working group for a demolition delay bylaw. The meeting is hybrid and requires roll call votes for all actions.

• Discussion on repairing the Clock Tower
• Approve CDBG Commercial Rehab at 18 Central Street
• Working Group for Demo Delay By-Law
• Treasurer’s Report
• Commissioner’s Forum

Town Council

The Town Council will vote on several municipal appointments and the acceptance of multiple grants. The body will also consider a series of budget transfer requests for the Police and Fire Departments.

• Contract for West Street School elevator emergency jack replacement with Associated Elevator for $92,178.00
• Community Impact Grant from Spectrum Health Systems for $15,000.00 for Fire Department medical equipment
• S.A.F.E. grants for Student Awareness of Fire Education ($5,697.75) and Seniors ($2,400.00)
• Police Department salary transfer requests totaling $77,500.00 across multiple accounts
• Appointments for Inspector of Animals, Special Traffic Constable, and Board of Registrars

The council postponed the April 28, 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. It confirmed three appointments: Inspector of Animals Katelyn Jewell (7‑1), Special Traffic Constable Albert Salonis (unanimous), and Board of Registrars member John Sypek (unanimous). The council also approved a $92,178 contract for an emergency elevator jack replacement at West Street School and extended the MassDOT Microprojects grant. Several fire‑department fund transfers were approved, including an $8,300 transfer to repair and maintenance vehicles (7‑1).

• Postponed April 28 minutes (unanimous)
• Confirmed Inspector of Animals Katelyn Jewell (7‑1)
• Confirmed Special Traffic Constable Albert Salonis (unanimous)
• Confirmed Board of Registrars member John Sypek (unanimous)
• Approved $92,178 elevator contract (unanimous)
• Extended MassDOT Microprojects grant (unanimous)
• Accepted $5,697.75 SAF.E grant (unanimous)
• Fire Dept transfer $8,300 to Repair/Maintenance (7‑1)

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority is holding a Resident Advisory Board meeting to gather public input on the development of its Housing Choice Voucher Program 5-Year Plan. Comments received will be submitted with the final plan. This is a procedural public input session.

• Development of the Housing Choice Voucher Program 5-Year Plan
• Public comment period during the meeting

Conservation Commission

The commission will continue a public hearing regarding a wetlands violation remediation and subdivision plan for properties at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street. They will also receive an update on an enforcement action at 87 Golf Street and discuss proposed work at Mill Street and a single-family home on Brentwood Drive. New business includes a CDBG memo and response.

• Continuation of public hearing for CAAR Development LLC — wetlands violation remediation and subdivision plan at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street (Map 20 Parcels 4, 79-K, 79-L)
• Update on enforcement action at 87 Golf Street
• Discussion of proposed work at Mill Street (Map 31 Parcel 145-00001)
• Discussion of proposed single-family home on Brentwood Drive (Map 80 Parcel 1)
• CDBG Memo and Response

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved several actions: it accepted the April 17 minutes, extended the public hearing for the CAAR Development site to May 15 and authorized ongoing fines, adopted an Enforcement Order requiring silt fencing and fill removal at 87 Golf Street, and approved sending a response to a CDBG memo. The next meeting was set for June 12.

• Accepted April 17 minutes (unanimous)
• Extended CAAR Development public hearing to May 15 and authorized fines (unanimous)
• Issued Enforcement Order for 87 Golf Street site – install silt fencing, remove fill, stabilize slope (unanimous)
• Approved sending response to CDBG memo (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for June 12 (unanimous)

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The joint Education and Human Services Subcommittee will review and possibly recommend to the Town Council several FY2026 budgets, including a $1,318,115 assessment for Bay Path Regional Technical School and budgets for the Jacob Edwards Library, Health Department, Community Center, Recreation Department, and Veterans Services. The subcommittee will also discuss authorizing a $92,178 contract for emergency elevator jack replacement at West Street School.

• FY2026 Bay Path Regional Technical School Assessment: $1,318,115
• FY2026 Jacob Edwards Library Budget: $586,208
• FY2026 Health Department Budget: $229,041
• Contract for emergency elevator jack replacement at West Street School: $92,178 to Associated Elevator
• FY2026 Recreation Department Budget: $80,938

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Planning and Development Subcommittee will review several FY2026 budget requests for recommendation to the Town Council. The body will also discuss a deadline extension for a MassDOT Microprojects grant.

• MassDOT Microprojects grant extension until September 30, 2025
• FY2026 Planning Budget: $81,513.00
• FY2026 Economic Development Budget: $14,758.00
• FY2026 Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Authority Budget: $5,748.00
• FY2026 Conservation Commission Budget: $1,000.00

Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee

The joint Protection of Persons and Property Subcommittee and Town Council will review and discuss the FY2026 budgets for the Inspection Services ($260,474), Fire Department ($3,227,740), and Police Department ($5,280,271), with motions to submit them to the Town Council. The agenda also includes personnel actions such as the reappointment of Katelyn Jewell as Inspector of Animals and the appointment of Albert Salonis as Special Traffic Constable, as well as acceptance of grants and internal fund transfers within the Fire and Police departments.

• FY2026 Police Department budget of $5,280,271.00
• FY2026 Fire Department budget of $3,227,740.00
• FY2026 Inspection Services budget of $260,474.00
• Reappointment of Katelyn Jewell as Inspector of Animals
• Appointment of Albert Salonis as Special Traffic Constable

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a routine meeting with mostly procedural items. They plan to review and sign FY2025 real estate exemption applications and abatement reports, if any exist. No specific properties or dollar amounts are listed on the agenda. A taxpayer forum and open forum are also scheduled.

• Review and sign FY2025 Real Estate Exemption applications (if any)
• Review and sign FY2025 Real Estate & Personal Property Abatement applications (if any)
• Public comment periods: Taxpayer forum and Board open forum
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

Town Council

The Town Council will vote on awarding a contract for the Southbridge Fire Station project and a $65,000 Department of Public Works transfer. The body will also vote to accept the warrant for the June 10, 2025, local election.

• Contract award to PDS Engineering and Construction, Inc for the Southbridge Fire Station project totaling $20,000,000.00
• Department of Public Works transfer request of $65,000.00 from Water Capital Reserve to Water System Capital
• Vote to accept the Warrant for the Local Election on Tuesday, June 10, 2025

The council unanimously approved the award of a $20,000,000 contract to PDS Engineering & Construction for the new Southbridge Fire Station. They also unanimously approved a $65,000 transfer between water‑system capital accounts. The council accepted the warrant for the June 10, 2025 local election. Minutes from the April 14, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously.

• Awarded Southbridge Fire Station contract to PDS Engineering & Construction for $20,000,000 (unanimous)
• Approved $65,000 transfer from Water Capital Reserve to Water System Capital account (unanimous)
• Accepted warrant for the June 10, 2025 local election (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the April 14, 2025 Town Council meeting (unanimous)

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority will review monthly expense reports and program updates. The board is scheduled to vote on the FYE 2026 Affirmative Action Goal and Fair Housing Tenant Data, as well as the designation of the Executive Director to sign future CFAs.

• Vote on FYE 2026 Affirmative Action Goal and Fair Housing Tenant Data
• Vote on designating Executive Director to sign future CFAs
• Vote on March 31, 2025, Quarterly Operating Statements for 400-1 and 689-C Programs
• Review of EOHLC Public Housing Notice 2025-04
• Review of accounts payable from March 29, 2025, to April 25, 2025

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will review grant updates and tree marking progress. Members will discuss strategies for community outreach and review examples of tree ordinances and bylaws.

• Review of ROW Tree Marking progress
• Discussion of Arbor Day observances at Charlton Street, Eastford Road, and West Street elementary schools
• Review of Tree Ordinance and Bylaw examples
• Discussion of Municipal Tree Inventory
• Discussion of Shade Tree Commission

Liquor Licensing Board

The Southbridge Liquor Licensing Board will meet to discuss updates regarding a liquor agent. The board will also review minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting.

• Liquor Agent update for Sevengaits LLC d/b/a Starlite Gallery & Bar

The board met on April 24, 2025. Members discussed an ongoing investigation of Sevengaits LLC operating without a license and addressed a Freedom of Information Act request. No motions were approved or denied, and the meeting concluded with an adjournment.

Retirement Board

The Southbridge Retirement Board is meeting on April 24, 2025 to consider personnel pension actions, including a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for retirees effective July 1, 2025, and approval of a warrant for $738,039.91. The board will also vote on the superannuation retirement of Anthony Fulginiti and several refunds and transfers of accumulated deductions. Additional items include updates on a deceased survivor benefit and a deduction error.

• Vote to approve COLA for retirees effective July 1, 2025
• Vote to approve superannuation retirement of Anthony Fulginiti, Bay Path Vocational High School/Building Superintendent, effective June 1, 2025 (28.1667 years of service)
• Vote to approve April warrant W042025 totaling $738,039.91 (Retiree Payroll $406,383.27, Payroll End Checks $71,033.02, Accounts Payable $260,623.62)
• Votes to approve refunds of accumulated deductions for Ryan Duquette, Felix Fuster, Ronald Plouffe, Miguel Rivera, and Yvonne Torres (all formerly of Southbridge Public Schools or Town of Southbridge)
• Votes to approve transfer of accumulated deductions for Michael Corder, Kayla Dighton, and Michael Pollone to other retirement systems

The board approved a 3% cost‑of‑living adjustment for retirees effective July 1, 2025. It also authorized the April warrant W042025 totaling $738,039.91 for retiree payroll, end‑check payroll, and accounts payable. Several refunds and transfers of accumulated deductions for former employees were approved, and a $1,877.10 deduction error was waived.

• Approved 3% COLA for retirees effective July 1, 2025 (all members in favor)
• Approved April warrant W042025 for $738,039.91 (retiree payroll $406,383.27, end checks $71,033.02, accounts payable $260,623.62) (all members in favor)
• Approved superannuation retirement of Anthony Fulsiniti, 28.1667 service years (all members in favor)
• Approved refund of accumulated deductions for Ryan Duquette, 1.4167 years of service (all members in favor)
• Approved transfer of accumulated deductions for Michael Corder to Worcester Regional Retirement System, 16.8837 years (all members in favor)
• Approved transfer of accumulated deductions for Kayla Dighton to Worcester Regional Retirement System, 1.0 year (all members in favor)
• Approved waiver of deduction error $1,877.10 for an active member (all members in favor)
• Approved payment plan for improper payment of a deceased survivor benefit, with monthly payments on the 22nd until completed (all members in favor)

Department of Public Works Subcommittee

The joint DPW Subcommittee and Town Council will review and discuss a $65,000 transfer from Capital Reserve to the DPW operating account, and the FY2026 DPW budget of $2,241,037. They will also review the FY2026 Snow and Ice Budget of $406,700. The subcommittee will entertain motions to recommend approval to the full Town Council.

• Transfer request of $65,000 from account #610450-583000-91250 Capital Reserve to account #610450-583000-25580
• FY2026 Department of Public Works Budget of $2,241,037
• FY2026 Snow and Ice Budget of $406,700
• Joint meeting with Town Council; voting limited to subcommittee members

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review the financial report and the Library Director's report. Discussions include coordination with the Friends of the Jacob Edwards Library and a draft ICE procedure currently under review at Town Hall.

• Review of draft ICE procedure at Town Hall
• Coordination with the president of the Friends of the Jacob Edwards Library
• Discussion regarding Chess Park
• Review of Financial Report

Trail Committee

The Trail Committee will review March meeting minutes, receive an update from Ray's meeting with the Town Manager, and discuss the April 5 State of the Trails walk. They will also finalize plans for a May 10 trail walk with Friends of Southbridge Trails at Heritage Trail, including an Army Corps Inner Dam Tour.

• Update on Ray's meeting with Town Manager
• Discussion of April 5 State of the Trails trail walk
• Planning for May 10 trail walk at Heritage Trail (meet at West Street School soccer field parking lot)
• Army Corps of Engineers Inner Dam Tour included in May 10 event

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

This is a standard advisory board meeting consisting of roll call, approval of prior minutes, public comments, chairperson comments, the administrator's report, and adjournment. No substantive policy changes, contracts, or financial decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from March 20, 2025 meeting
• Administrator's Report on transit operations
• Business from the public (comments accepted via email, phone, and Zoom)

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will hold its regular meeting with continuations of two public hearings: one for a proposed single-family home on Vinton Street and another for wetlands violation remediation and subdivision plan at Highfield Drive and Pleasant Street. The commission will also discuss enforcement action at 87 Golf Street and proposed work at Mill Street.

• Continuation of public hearing – Notice of Intent for EcoTec, Inc. (Patrick McManus) for a single-family home on Vinton Street (Map 15 Parcel 28)
• Continuation of public hearing – Notice of Intent for Expedited Engineers (CAAR Development, LLC) for wetlands violation remediation and subdivision plan at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street (Map 20 Parcels 4, 79-K, 79-L)
• Update on enforcement action at 87 Golf Street
• Discussion of proposed work at Mill Street (Map 31 Parcel 145-00001)

The commission unanimously accepted the minutes from the April 3 meeting. They approved a standard Order of Conditions with added wetland protection requirements for EcoTec’s proposed single‑family home on Vinton Street. They also unanimously voted to continue the public hearing on the CAAR Development project until May 1 at 5:45 p.m.

• Accepted April 3 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Order of Conditions with wetland restrictions for EcoTec Vinton St. home (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for CAAR Development project until May 1, 5:45 p.m. (unanimous)

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council and Planning Board will hold a joint public hearing to receive comment on a proposed amendment to the Zoning Bylaw adding Section 8.10 for Accessory Dwelling Units. Members of the public may attend and speak at the hearing. The proposed bylaw text is available for inspection at the Town Manager's Office.

• Proposed zoning bylaw amendment adding Section 8.10 for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing to receive comment on adding a new section, 'Southbridge Water Use Restrictions,' to the existing water regulations. The proposed bylaw change is available for inspection at the Town Manager's Office.

• Public hearing on adding Southbridge Water Use Restrictions to water regulations

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization will consider approving Amendment #5 to the current Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and releasing Amendment #6 for public comment. They will also vote to release the Draft FFY 2026-2030 TIP for a 21-day public review period. Additional items include updating WRTA Transit Asset Management targets, releasing an amendment to the Unified Planning Work Program, and discussing the Vernon Street/I-290 Transportation Study.

• Potential approval of Proposed Amendment #5 to the FFY 2025-2029 TIP Highway Project Listing
• Potential release of Proposed Amendment #6 to the FFY 2025-2029 TIP for 21-day public review
• Potential release of Draft FFY 2026-2030 TIP for 21-day public review and comment
• Concurrence with updated WRTA Transit Asset Management (TAM) targets
• Potential release of Proposed Amendment #2 to the FFY 2025 Unified Planning Work Program for public review

Town Council

The Southbridge Town Council will vote on several funding applications, including a $850,000 grant for housing and commercial rehab. The body will also consider new host community agreements for cannabis businesses and various infrastructure contracts.

• Application for $850,000 CDBG Mini-Entitlement FY25 funds for housing rehab, commercial rehab, and code enforcement
• Agreement for $20,000 with VHB for design services of Hamilton, Central, and Foster streets
• Agreement for $49,000 with Fuss and O’Neill for Brownfields Phase 2 Site Assessment at 30 Mill Street
• Acceptance of a $50,000 grant from Mass Development for Globe Village Brownfields assessment
• New Host Community Agreements with Cannabro LLC (DBA Green Path), Green Meadow Farm, LLC, and 208 Worcester Street, LLC

Town Council

The Town Council will vote on several funding applications and contracts for infrastructure and brownfields assessments. The body is also considering the appointment of a Sanitarian/Health Inspector and hearing officers, as well as three new Host Community Agreements.

• Application for $850,000 in CDBG Mini-Entitlement FY25 funds for housing/commercial rehab and code enforcement
• Agreement for $20,000 with VHB for design services for Hamilton, Central, and Foster streets
• Agreement for $49,000 with Fuss and O’Neill for a Brownfields Phase 2 Site Assessment at 30 Mill Street
• Acceptance of a $50,000 Mass Development grant for Globe Village Brownfields assessment
• New Host Community Agreements with Cannabro LLC (DBA Green Path), Green Meadow Farm, LLC, and 208 Worcester Street, LLC

The Town Council approved a $850,000 Community Development Block Grant application for housing and commercial rehabilitation, with a subcommittee vote of 4‑1 and one councilor expressing opposition. The council also confirmed several appointments and contracts, including a Sanitarian/Health Inspector and multiple grant and agreement approvals.

• Approved appointment of Christopher Hart as Sanitarian/Health Inspector (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of John D. Jovan Jr. as municipal hearing officer and Madaline Bonadies as secondary hearing officer (unanimous)
• Extended CDBG FY22‑23 commercial rehab contract for 44 Hamilton Street (8‑1, one opposition)
• Approved $20,000 agreement with VHB for design services (unanimous)
• Approved $850,000 CDBG Mini‑Entitlement grant application (subcommittee 4‑1, one councilor opposed)
• Accepted $50,000,000 Mass Development grant for Globe Village Brownfields assessment (unanimous)
• Approved $49,000 agreement with Fuss and O’Neill for Brownfields Phase 2 assessment (unanimous)
• Extended CP House ARPA agreement for an additional 8 months (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council is meeting entirely in executive session, closed to the public, to discuss strategy related to collective bargaining or litigation. No public votes or decisions are scheduled on the agenda.

Southbridge Airport Commission

The Southbridge Airport Commission will discuss and vote on the annual review of rental rates. The body will also receive updates on the May 17, 2025 Air Show and the search for an Airport Manager.

• Annual review of rental rates (discussion and vote)
• Update on May 17, 2025 Air Show
• Discussion on T hangar bids
• Update on Private Hangar Land Lease review
• Status of Airport Managers search

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a public hearing to consider adopting Section 5.5.7, Uninhabitable Units, into the Code of Regulations Chapter 2 regarding solid waste storage and disposal. The board will also vote on appointing Christopher Hart as a Sanitary/Health Inspector and receive updates on COVID and infectious disease counts, blight, and solid waste contract issues.

• Public hearing for adoption of Section 5.5.7 (Uninhabitable Units) into BOH Code of Regulations Chapter 2
• Vote to appoint Christopher Hart as Sanitary/Health Inspector (pending Town Council approval)
• COVID and infectious disease update from Director of Health Daniel Wasiuk
• Blight update from Director of Health
• Solid waste curbside items, violations, and contract issues update from Town Agent Maritza Santos

Board of Health

The Southbridge Board of Health will hold a public hearing to discuss proposed amendments to Chapter 2 of the Town's Code of Regulations. The discussion focuses on the storage and disposal of solid waste.

• Public hearing to adopt amendments to Chapter 2: Storage and Disposal of Solid Waste

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will review minutes, receive updates on grants and right-of-way tree marking, and discuss community outreach strategies including Arbor Day observances at three elementary schools. The board will also consider tree ordinance/bylaw examples and municipal tree inventory.

• Arbor Day observances at Charlton Street, Eastford Road, and West Street elementary schools
• Discussion of tree ordinance/bylaw examples
• Update on municipal tree inventory
• Progress report on right-of-way (ROW) tree marking
• Grant update

Recreation Committee

The Southbridge Recreation Committee will hold a routine meeting with procedural items and a discussion of spring and summer events and programming. The agenda also includes citizen and member forums and director’s announcements. No specific funding or contract decisions are listed.

• Discussion of spring and summer events and programming
• Director’s announcements

Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Central Massachusetts MPO will hold a virtual public meeting on April 8, 2025 to discuss Proposed Amendment #5 to the 2025–2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The amendment removes three highway projects from FFY 2025 (postponing them to FFY 2026) and increases the cost of a Southbridge intersection project by $914,202. Public comments will be accepted at the meeting and in writing until April 9.

• Remove project 608961 – Worcester – Chandler Street and May Street intersection improvements from FFY 2025 (to 2026).
• Remove project 610769 – Sutton – Manchaug Road bridge (S-33-002) superstructure replacement from FFY 2025 (to 2026).
• Remove project 612195 – Worcester – I-290 over East Central Street bridge (W-44-091) superstructure replacement from FFY 2025 (to 2026).
• Cost increase of $914,202 for project 608778 – Southbridge – Intersection Improvements at Central Street, Foster Street, Hook Street and Hamilton Street, new total $8,193,645.

Council on Aging

The Southbridge Council on Aging will convene at the Community Center to receive a report from the director and conduct routine business. No substantive decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

Retirement Board

This special meeting of the Southbridge Retirement Board is primarily to discuss and vote on a three-year contract with Roselli and Clark for auditing services. The rest of the agenda is procedural, including roll call and adjournment.

• Discuss and vote on contract with Roselli and Clark for auditing services for a 3-year term

The Retirement Board voted unanimously to approve a three‑year contract with the auditing firm Roselli & Clark, a contract valued under $10,000 with a 2.5% increase from the 2018 agreement. The board also added an agenda item to discuss deceased survivor payments and decided not to move forward with a payment plan for an improper survivor benefit, referring the matter to legal counsel. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Roselli & Clark three‑year audit contract (unanimous)
• Added agenda item to discuss deceased survivor payments (unanimous)
• Decided not to implement payment plan for improper deceased survivor benefits (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Committee

The Southbridge School Committee will receive an update on the proposed FY26 budget and a presentation on employee relations and conduct. Members will also discuss progress toward expectations outlined in the DESE plan to build School Committee capacity. The meeting includes public input and approval of prior minutes.

• Update on FY26 Proposed Budget
• Presentation on Employee Relations and Conduct
• Discussion of progress on DESE Plan to build School Committee Capacity
• Approval of minutes from March 11 meeting

Planning & Development Subcommittee

The Southbridge Planning and Development Subcommittee, meeting jointly with the Town Council, will review and discuss several items including a 90-day extension for a commercial rehab contract at 44 Hamilton Street, a $20,000 design services agreement for road improvements, an application for $850,000 in CDBG Mini-Entitlement funds, a $50,000 grant for brownfields assessment, a $49,000 brownfields site assessment agreement, an extension for CP House's ARPA agreement, and three new Host Community Agreements with cannabis businesses. The subcommittee will vote on recommendations to the full Town Council.

• 90-day extension of CDBG FY22-23 Commercial Rehab contract with Pablo Santiago for 44 Hamilton Street
• $20,000 agreement with VHB for 25% design services of Hamilton, Central, and Foster to Main Street
• Application for $850,000 CDBG Mini-Entitlement FY25 funds for housing rehab, commercial rehab, and code enforcement
• $50,000 grant from Mass Development for Globe Village Brownfields assessment
• Three new Host Community Agreements with Cannabro LLC (dba Green Path), Green Meadow Farm, and 208 Worcester Street

Education & Human Services Subcommittee

The Education and Human Services Subcommittee will review the Town Manager's appointment of Christopher Hart as a Sanitarian/Health Inspector. The body may vote to recommend the appointment to the Town Council for approval.

• Appointment of Christopher Hart as Sanitarian/Health Inspector

Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board

The WRTA Advisory Board Audit & Finance Committee will meet via Zoom to hear a presentation on the FY'26 budget from Deputy Administrator & CFO Thomas Coyne and vote on a recommendation to the full Advisory Board. The committee will also vote to approve minutes from April 4, 2024. No public comments will be accepted at this committee meeting.

• FY'26 budget presentation by Deputy Administrator & CFO Thomas Coyne
• Potential roll call vote to recommend the FY'26 budget to the Advisory Board
• Roll call vote to approve the April 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Meeting held via Zoom webinar with no public comment period

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review and sign several routine financial documents: the FY2025 Real Estate Exemption applications, February and March Motor Vehicle Abatement/Exemption reports, and the 2025 Motor Vehicle Commitment #2 in the amount of $222,594.30. They will also consider FY2025 Real Estate and Personal Property Abatement applications. The meeting includes taxpayer and open forums.

• Signing of FY2025 Real Estate Exemption applications and notices
• Review and signing of February and March Motor Vehicle Abatement/Exemption reports
• Approval of 2025 Motor Vehicle Commitment #2 for $222,594.30
• Review of FY2025 Real Estate & Personal Property Abatement applications

Economic Development Commission

The Southbridge Economic Development Commission will hear from Kristina Johnson, Hudson's Planning Director, on community development. Members will discuss strategies to trigger storefront openings, including an inventory review and input from Building Commissioner Ted Tetreault. The agenda also includes reviewing the EDC webpage, improving the town's website, and updating the Economic Development Plan. No votes or funding decisions are scheduled; the meeting is primarily discussion and information-sharing.

• Guest speaker Kristina Johnson, Hudson Director of Planning and Community Development
• Discussion on triggering storefront openings with Building Commissioner Ted Tetreault
• Review of Economic Development Commission webpage and overall town website improvements
• Review of the Economic Development Plan and marketing the town to businesses
• Update on current town projects

Conservation Commission

The Southbridge Conservation Commission will continue two public hearings: one for a proposed single-family home on Vinton Street, and another for a wetlands violation remediation and subdivision plan at Highfield Drive and Pleasant Street. The commission will also discuss enforcement actions on Golf Street and Commercial Drive, and consider a certificate of compliance and proposed work at Mill Street.

• Continuation of public hearing for single-family home on Vinton Street (Map 15 Parcel 28)
• Continuation of public hearing for wetlands violation remediation and subdivision plan at 107 & 111 Highfield Drive and 376 Pleasant Street
• Update on enforcement action at 87 Golf Street
• Revisit permit at 150 Commercial Drive per DEP request
• Request for Certificate of Compliance at 167 Hilltop Drive

The Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the March 20 meeting. It adopted a Negative Determination of Applicability for the 150 Commercial Drive project with monitoring conditions. The commission also postponed two public hearings to April 17, ordered an update on erosion‑control measures, and issued a partial Certificate of Compliance for 167 Hilltop Drive.

• Accepted March 20 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Issued Negative Determination of Applicability for 150 Commercial Drive with conditions (unanimous)
• Continued EcoTec public hearing to April 17 at 5:45 p.m. (unanimous)
• Continued Expedited Engineers hearing to April 17 at 6:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Requested Mr. Lazo (and possibly McClure Engineering) to attend next meeting for erosion‑control update (unanimous)
• Issued partial Certificate of Compliance for 167 Hilltop Drive (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss current zoning bylaws and subdivision regulations. The discussion focuses on infill development, the table of uses, and standards for subdivision roads.

• Discussion of infill development
• Review of Table of Uses
• Review of Standards of Subdivision Roads

The Planning Board decided that K. Yoder will draft the ADU Bylaw revisions discussed in the meeting and submit them to the Town Council before the next hearing. The Board also approved a motion to adjourn the meeting, which passed unanimously. It noted that two current members must become alternates by July 2025.

• Approved motion to adjourn (6‑0 vote)
• Decided K. Yoder will draft ADU Bylaw changes for Town Council submission
• Noted requirement that two board members become alternates by July 2025

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority will hold an on-site board meeting and public hearing to receive comments on its Annual Plan for the upcoming year. The plan is available online for review. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing on the Southbridge Housing Authority Annual Plan
• Meeting held at Quinebaug Plaza, 60 Charlton St., 8th Floor Community Room

Southbridge Housing Authority

The board will review and vote on the FYE 2026 Capital Improvement Plan and the FYE 2026 Annual Plan. The meeting includes a public comment period regarding these plans and votes on specific contract amendments and project change orders.

• Vote on FYE 2026 Capital Improvement Plan
• Vote on FYE 2026 Annual Plan
• Vote on Amendment #14 to Contract for Financial Assistance (CFA) 5001 for $284,850.02
• Vote on Change Order #1 for Project 278067 Hot Water Heater Replacement for $13,149.38
• Review of EOHLC Public Housing Notice 2025-03

Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board

The Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Board will review minutes, receive a grant update, and discuss progress on right-of-way tree marking. They will plan community outreach via website and Facebook, and coordinate Arbor Day observances for three schools with specific student populations. The board will also consider tree ordinance/bylaw examples and discuss a shade tree commission.

• Arbor Day observances: Eastford Road School (166 first-grade students), Charlton Street School (291), West Street School (316)
• Grant update
• ROW Tree Marking Progress
• Community outreach strategy (website and Facebook)
• Discussion of Tree Ordinance/Bylaw examples and Shade Tree Commission

Retirement Board

The Southbridge Retirement Board will vote on approving minutes, a warrant totaling $657,489.39, and several refunds and transfers of accumulated deductions for former employees. The warrant covers retiree payroll, payroll end checks, and accounts payable. The board also will consider a make-up deduction request for a former DPW employee.

• Vote to approve Warrant W032025 for $657,489.39 (retiree payroll $403,759.67, payroll end checks $69,681.24, accounts payable $184,048.48)
• Vote to approve refund of accumulated deductions for Madeline Willoughby, former dispatcher, 0.4167 years of service
• Vote to approve transfer of accumulated deductions for Elizabeth Gorey, former interventionist, to MA Teachers Retirement System (1.9167 years)
• Vote to approve transfer of accumulated deductions for Theodore Mather, former production tech-teacher, to MA Teachers Retirement System (0.8333 years)
• Vote to allow make-up of deductions for Aiden Hulk for part-time DPW service (Aug 26–Dec 16, 2021) giving three months creditable service

The Retirement Board accepted the February 27 minutes and approved refunds and transfers of accumulated deductions for several former employees. It also approved a make‑up deduction for Aiden Hulyk and adopted the March payroll warrant totaling $657,489.39. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted February 27, 2025 minutes – all members voted in favor
• Approved refund of deductions for Madeline Willoughby (0.4167 years) – all members voted in favor
• Approved transfer of deductions for Elizabeth Gorey (1.9167 years) – all members voted in favor
• Approved transfer of deductions for Theodore Mather (0.8333 years) – all members voted in favor
• Approved make‑up deduction for Aiden Hulyk (three months creditable service) – all members voted in favor
• Approved March payroll warrant $657,489.39 (Retiree Payroll $403,759.67, Payroll End Checks $69,681.24, Accounts Payable $184,048.48) – all members voted in favor
• Adjourned meeting at 9:46 am – all members voted in favor

Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees

The Jacob Edwards Library Board of Trustees will discuss and possibly act on a proposed ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) procedure under new business. Other agenda items include approval of prior minutes, a financial report, updates on the Friends group and Chess Park, and highlights from the library director's report.

• Consideration of ICE procedure under new business
• Approval of minutes from February 25, 2025
• Financial report
• Friends of the Jacob Edwards Library update
• Chess Park update

Historical Commission

This is a regular hybrid meeting of the Southbridge Historical Commission with no votes or binding decisions listed. The commission will receive updates on the Clock Tower, the Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail construction, and a working group for a Demolition Delay By-Law. The agenda also includes a treasurer's report and commissioner forum.

• Working Group for Demo Delay By-Law discussion
• Clock Tower Update
• Update on Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail construction
• Treasurer’s Report

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission will discuss adding rumble strips and signage on Worcester Street and a left turn signal at Main and Elm Streets. The body will also consider changing winter parking rules on West Street following a construction project.

• Rumble strips and signage from 208 Worcester Street through 284 Worcester Street
• Left turn/yield signal at Main Street and Elm Street intersection
• Changing West Street winter parking from alternate sided to one sided

Traffic Commission

The Southbridge Traffic Commission will meet to review and discuss several traffic safety and parking changes. Items include adding rumble strips and signage on Worcester Street, a left-turn/yield signal at Main and Elm Streets, and changing West Street from alternate-side to one-side parking year-round due to recent road construction.

• Review/discuss adding rumble strips and signage from 208 to 284 Worcester Street
• Review/discuss adding a left turn/yield signal at Main Street and Elm Street
• Review/discuss changing West Street parking from alternate-sided to one-sided year-round due to construction

Board of Assessors

The Southbridge Board of Assessors is holding a routine meeting to review and sign FY2025 Real Estate Exemption applications, monthly motor vehicle abatement/exemption reports, and FY2025 Real Estate & Personal Property Abatement applications. The agenda also includes taxpayer forums and new business. No specific applications or dollar amounts are listed; all items are marked as conditional.

• Review and sign FY2025 Real Estate Exemption applications (if any)
• Review and sign monthly motor vehicle abatement/exemption reports (if any)
• Review and sign motor vehicle abatement applications (if any)
• Review and sign FY2025 Real Estate & Personal Property Abatement applications (if any)

Southbridge Housing Authority

The Southbridge Housing Authority is holding an on-site board meeting to receive public comments regarding its Annual Plan.

• Public hearing for the Annual Plan

Liquor Licensing Board

The Southbridge Liquor Licensing Board will hold a public hearing on a new all-alcohol restaurant license application for Dynasty Chinese. The board will also consider a change of corporation status for Fins and Tales at 858 Main Street. Two one-day liquor license requests will be voted on: Lasalle Reception Center on March 22 and Trinity Catholic Academy on April 5. The meeting includes routine updates, citizen forum, and discussion of district licenses.

• Public hearing for Dynasty Chinese — New All Alcohol Restaurant Liquor License Application
• Peter Desforges d/b/a Fins and Tales at 858 Main St. — Change of Corporation status
• One-day license SL-25-01: Lasalle Reception Center, 444 Main St., March 22, beer/wine, 60 attendees, 7-10pm
• One-day license SL-25-02: Trinity Catholic Academy, 11 Pine St., April 5, beer/wine, 60 attendees, 7-9pm

The board approved a change of corporation status for Fins and Tales at 858 Main St. It also approved a new all‑alcohol restaurant liquor license for Dynasty Chinese Restaurant Inc. One‑day beer and wine licenses were approved for LaSalle Reception Center and Trinity Catholic Academy. The February 6 meeting minutes were approved and the session was adjourned.

• Approved change of corporation status for Fins and Tales at 858 Main St.
• Approved new all‑alcohol restaurant liquor license for Dynasty Chinese Restaurant Inc.
• Approved one‑day beer and wine license SL-25-01 for LaSalle Reception Center (444 Main St.)
• Approved one‑day beer and wine license SL-25-02 for Trinity Catholic Academy (11 Pine St.)
• Approved February 6 meeting minutes
• Motion to adjourn passed

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will hold a public hearing to receive input on the Town’s FY21-FY24 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Mini Entitlement program activities and on the FY2025 CDBG application. Current activities include code enforcement, street improvements, housing rehabilitation, and commercial facade improvements. Potential future activities include downtown beautification, housing rehabilitation, business development, street improvements, and public social services. The hearing will be held on March 20, 2025 at 6:00 PM at Town Hall.