Holden Beach public meetings in 2025

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach MBTA Communities Act Working Group will meet on Dec. 30, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. The agenda includes a review of the previous meeting's minutes, brief updates from the group, a discussion of community outreach efforts, any additional items, and a wrap‑up. No specific decisions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk's MBTA Communities Act Working Group will meet on December 18, 2025 at 6:30 pm by Zoom. The agenda lists a review of minutes, brief updates, community outreach, additional items, and a wrap‑up. No specific resolutions, contracts, or ordinance changes are identified in the agenda. The meeting link and passcode are provided for public participation.

Stormwater Committee

The Stormwater Committee will review land disturbance permit applications for five specific properties. The committee will also elect officers and approve meeting minutes.

• Land Disturbance Permit LD-2023-10: 430 Bailey Road
• Land Disturbance Permit LD-2025-3: 440 Bailey Road
• Land Disturbance Permit LD-2025-10: 836 Salisbury Street
• Land Disturbance Permit LD-2025-9: 889 Salisbury Street
• Land Disturbance Permit LD-2025-11: 321 Bryant Road

Town Clerk

The Holden Housing Authority Board will meet to approve November 2025 financials, receive reports on operations and snow removal, and consider resolutions for HUD civil rights certification and a window replacement change order.

• Approval of November 2025 financials
• Resolution 2025-20 HUD Civil Rights Certification & Annual Plan
• Resolution 2025-21 Window Replacement Project Change Order
• State-Aided Housing Report
• Leased Housing Report

Health Department/Board of Health

The Board approved the minutes from the October 21 and November 18, 2025 meetings. It voted unanimously to add Richard Greene and Laura Tupper as health inspectors. No other motions were decided; Kratom regulation information was only presented for review.

• Approved October 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved November 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved addition of Richard Greene as inspector (unanimous)
• Approved addition of Laura Tupper as inspector (unanimous)

Planning Board

The board voted 3‑0‑0 to release the Westminster Place surety and insurance bond in its entirety. It also voted 3‑0‑0 to continue the public hearing for 1146 Main Street until January 13, 2026. The December 9, 2025 minutes were approved 3‑0‑0 and the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 pm.

• Release Westminster Place surety and insurance bond in entirety (3-0-0)
• Continue 1146 Main Street public hearing until Jan 13, 2026 (3-0-0)
• Approve December 9, 2025 Planning Board minutes (3-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting at 8:50 pm (3-0-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board will accept the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting. It will discuss motor vehicle excise commitments and abatements for 2024 and 2025. It will also review fiscal year 2026 real estate and personal property tax billing, the supplemental real estate tax for FY2026‑1, and Chapter Land FY2027 applications due December 1, 2025, along with FY2027 status.

• Accept minutes from October 28, 2025
• Review motor vehicle excise commitments and abatements for 2024‑2025
• Examine FY2026 real estate and personal property tax billing
• Consider supplemental real estate tax for FY2026‑1
• Discuss Chapter Land FY2027 applications due December 1, 2025

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes of the October 28, 2025 meeting. The meeting also reviewed motor vehicle excise data, FY 26 tax totals, staff updates, chapter land applications, and FY 2027 budget proposals, but no further actions were decided. The next meeting date will be set later.

• Approved October 28, 2025 meeting minutes

Town Clerk

The MBTA Communities Act Working Group is meeting via Zoom to review minutes and discuss community outreach. The agenda consists of brief updates and general wrap-up items.

• Review of minutes
• Community outreach discussion

Town Clerk

The Holden Water & Sewer Advisory Board will receive updates on water and sewer operations, including iron and manganese issues in the Jefferson area and a court case involving Worcester's sewer rates. The board will discuss a proposed sewer extension on Fisher Road and review the town's sewer rules and regulations. It will also consider updates on the ECC site and set topics for future meetings.

• Iron and Manganese – Jefferson Area Updates
• City of Worcester – DCR Sewer Rate Court Case Update
• Fisher Road Sewer Extension Discussion
• Sewer Rules and Regulations
• ECC site Update

Water Sewer Advisory Board

The Water & Sewer Advisory Board will review updates on water and sewer operations, including iron and manganese issues in the Jefferson area and the ECC site. It will discuss the Fisher Road sewer extension and proposed sewer rules and regulations. The board will also receive an update on the City of Worcester DCR sewer rate court case and set topics for future meetings and the next meeting date.

• Fisher Road Sewer Extension Discussion
• Sewer Rules and Regulations
• Iron and Manganese‑Jefferson Area Interim Fe/Mn Mitigation Efforts Discussion
• City of Worcester – DCR Sewer Rate Court Case Update
• ECC site Update

Town Clerk

The Board of Directors will meet virtually to conduct organizational business. The agenda includes the election of officers and the Board Chairman.

• Election of Officers
• Election of Chairman
• Approval of November 24, 2025 meeting minutes
• Executive session to discuss trade secrets and confidential corporate-sensitive information

Town Clerk

The Holden Cultural Council will meet via Zoom to review grant applications for fiscal year 2026.

• Review of FY26 grant applications

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding zoning bylaw and zoning map amendments related to the MBTA Communities Act. The board will also consider a lot creation request and review previous meeting minutes.

• Public hearing on MBTA Communities Act zoning bylaw and zoning map amendments
• Request for 35 Chapin Road to create 2 lots from 1 lot
• Review and approval of November 18, 2025 minutes

The board voted unanimously to approve the creation of two lots from one at 35 Chapin Road. It also voted unanimously to reject the MBTA Communities Act article and to approve the November 18, 2025 minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 7:16 p.m. by a unanimous vote.

• Approved two‑lot subdivision at 35 Chapin Road (4-0-0)
• Rejected MBTA Communities Act article (4-0-0)
• Approved November 18, 2025 Planning Board minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:16 p.m. (4-0-0)

Town Clerk

The MBTACA Working Group will meet via Zoom on December 4, 2025, to review minutes, discuss updates, and address follow-up items from the Board of Selectman.

• Review of meeting minutes
• Updates and follow-up to Board of Selectman discussion
• Community outreach planning
• Additional items discussion
• Meeting via Zoom

Council on Aging

The Holden Beach Council on Aging will hold a meeting on December 3, 2025 at 8 AM in the Senior Center. Members will accept the October 1 and November 5, 2025 meeting minutes and hear a series of reports, including the Chairman’s report, Friends report, Help at H.O.M.E. data, Board of Elder Services, Director’s report, Age and Dementia Committee, and MBTA communities information. The agenda also includes old business, new business, a citizens’ address, and adjournment.

• Chairman’s report – acceptance of October 1 and November 5, 2025 minutes
• Help at H.O.M.E. – review of October data and information from Susie Marsh
• Board of Elder Services report
• Director’s report by Karen Phillips
• Age and Dementia Committee report

Finance Committee

The Holden Finance Committee will receive an update from the Town Manager. It will review the manager's financial forecasts and consider a proposed budget override. The committee will also address miscellaneous items, set the next meeting date, approve the minutes, and then adjourn.

• Town Manager update
• Review Town Manager forecasts and override proposal
• Finance Committee miscellaneous items
• Set next meeting date
• Approve minutes

The committee discussed a proposed 2 ½% tax override for fiscal year 2027. A motion to not recommend the override to the Board of Selectmen was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. No other actions were taken during the meeting.

• Did not recommend 2 ½% override to Board of Selectmen (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Holden Beach Conservation Commission will discuss construction updates for several single‑family homes and septic systems that fall within 100‑foot regulatory buffers, including projects on 71 Sterling Rd, 889 Salisbury St, and Bryant Road. It will consider an enforcement order for unauthorized work at 130 Manning St. The commission will also receive requests for final certificates of compliance for properties on 55 and 47 Muschopague Rd.

• Notice of Intent – 71 Sterling Rd (single‑family home, septic, driveway extension in 200‑foot Riverfront Area, grading in 100‑foot wetland buffer)
• Notice of Intent – 889 Salisbury St (three single‑family homes, septic systems, utilities, grading in 100‑foot wetland buffer)
• Notice of Intent – Lot 2 Bryant Rd (single‑family home, septic, site work in 100‑foot wetland buffer)
• Enforcement Order – 130 Manning St (unauthorized work in regulatory buffer)
• Requests for Final Certificate of Compliance – 55 Muschopague Rd and 47 Muschopague Rd (single‑family homes and septic systems in 100‑foot buffer)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss a Proposition 2 ½ Override and MBTA Communities. The agenda includes two public hearings regarding dog complaints and the processing of licenses and permits.

• Proposition 2 ½ Override discussion
• MBTA Communities discussion
• Common Victualer license for Sip ‘n’ Sprout (Jessica Shaw)
• Dog complaint hearing for Marisa Smithers, 46 January Lane
• Dog complaint hearing for Janice Toole, 318 Wachusett Street

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved Jessica Shaw’s Sip ‘n’ Sprout license, setting operating hours from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Board also confirmed that it had previously voted to adopt the MBTA zoning amendment, though no vote tally was recorded. No final decision was made on how to handle the Bailey Road parcel restriction, and a Planning Board hearing is scheduled for December 9.

• Approved Sip ‘n’ Sprout license with hours 8:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Confirmed adoption of the MBTA zoning amendment (vote not recorded)
• Scheduled Planning Board hearing for December 9

Town Clerk

The MBTACA Working Group will meet via Zoom to review minutes, provide updates, and discuss a response to the Board of Selectman's recent discussion and decision. The meeting is scheduled for November 20, 2025.

• Review of meeting minutes
• Updates on MBTACA Working Group activities
• Response to Board of Selectman discussion and decision
• Community outreach planning
• Meeting via Zoom

Water Sewer Advisory Board

The Water & Sewer Advisory Board will receive updates on water and sewer operations, including iron and manganese issues in the Jefferson area and the Advanced Metering Infrastructure meter replacement program. The board will also receive an update on the City of Worcester DCR sewer rate court case and an ECC site update. A key agenda item is the discussion, review, and recommendation on the use of Tucker Road sewer easements #47H and #48W. The meeting will conclude with scheduling the next meeting.

• Iron and Manganese – Jefferson Area Updates
• Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Meter Replacement Program Discussion
• ECC site Update
• City of Worcester – DCR Sewer Rate Court Case Update
• Discussion, review, and recommendations regarding the use of Tucker Road sewer easements #47H & #48W

The Water & Sewer Advisory Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of Mr. Holden’s request for the Tucker Road sewer easements #47H and #48W. The board also set the next meeting for December 11, 2025 at 5:30 PM. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Recommend approval of Tucker Road sewer easements #47H & #48W (unanimous)
• Schedule next meeting for Dec 11, 2025 at 5:30 PM
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Holden Community Garden Committee

The Holden Community Garden Committee will meet to review the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting and to evaluate the recent Fall Clean Up event. Committee members will consider the 2026 garden application, the seed library, and planned school and Scout projects, as well as a community harvest. The agenda also includes old and new business items before adjourning.

• Review of previous minutes (October 8, 2025)
• Fall Clean Up Event review and follow‑up
• 2026 garden application
• Seed library discussion
• School and Scout projects

Town Clerk

The Municipal Electric Power Advisory Board is meeting to present the CY2026 budget and provide financial and operations updates.

• CY2026 Budget Presentation
• Financial Update
• Operations Update

Agricultural Commission

The Holden Beach Agricultural Commission will consider appointments and re‑appointments of members and the contact status of a potential new member. The commission will review and accept the minutes from the October 25 meeting. Old business includes an update on Chapter 61 parcel scoring and its posting on GIS. New business covers updates to the Open Space and Recreation Plan, Central Mass Grown, the Central Mass Agricultural Roundtable, Chapter 61 and 61B, and forest management.

• Appointment and re‑appointment of commission members
• Review and acceptance of October 25 meeting minutes
• Chapter 61 parcel scoring update and GIS posting
• Open Space and Recreation Plan update
• Central Mass Agricultural Roundtable review

Health Department/Board of Health

The Holden Beach Board of Health will approve the minutes from September 23 and October 21, 2025. It will confirm that Title V inspections at 263 Muschopauge Road and 1348 Main Street passed. The board will discuss installation and repair of sewage systems at several locations, including D‑box and pipe repairs at 37 Driftwood Drive and a full system replacement at 601 Wachusett Street. Additional items include reviews of properties on 71 Miles Avenue and 7 Wildwood, and an overview of the Holden CARES program.

• Approve minutes for September 23 and October 21, 2025
• Title V inspections passed at 263 Muschopauge Rd and 1348 Main St
• Septic system work: D‑box & pipe repair at 37 Driftwood Dr; decommission at 47 Chapel St; full system replacement at 601 Wachusett St
• Review of 71 Miles Ave and 7 Wildwood properties
• Holden CARES program overview and local upgrade approval for 601 Wachusett St

The Board approved the minutes from September 23, 2025. It extended the Order to Correct for 7 Wildwood Rd until December 2. The Board approved the septic system upgrade at 601 Wachusett Street and gave the Health Director authority to approve future local septic upgrades without board review.

• Approved September 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Extended Order to Correct for 7 Wildwood Rd to Dec 2 (vote passed)
• Approved septic upgrade at 601 Wachusett St (vote passed)
• Authorized Health Director to approve local septic upgrades without board review (vote passed)

Planning Board

The board will consider an ANR to divide the property at 576 Reservoir Street into two lots. It will review and approve a written decision for 1116 Wachusett Street. An update on the MBTA Communities Act will be presented. The board will also review and approve the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting.

• ANR to split 576 Reservoir Street into two lots
• Review and approve written decision for 1116 Wachusett Street
• Update on MBTA Communities Act
• Review and approve minutes from October 28, 2025 meeting

The Planning Board endorsed the creation of two lots from the existing lot at 576 Reservoir Street with a 3-0-0 vote. It also authorized the decision for file SPR-02251116 Wachusett Street to be signed, again 3-0-0. The board approved the October 28, 2025 meeting minutes and adjourned the meeting at 7:26 pm, each with a 3-0-0 vote.

• Endorsed ANR-576 Reservoir Street lot split into two lots (3-0-0)
• Authorized signing of decision for file SPR-02251116 Wachusett Street (3-0-0)
• Approved October 28, 2025 Planning Board minutes (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:26 pm (3-0-0)

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk will review the October 14 minutes and hear reports from the Chair, Treasurer, and various committees. Updates include the HCOA report, a promotional video status, and a spring fundraiser follow‑up. The board will consider drafting committee guidelines to replace bylaws. The meeting will also set the date for the next session.

• Approve minutes of October 14, 2025
• Treasurer’s report – spring business fundraiser follow‑up
• HCOA update (Kelly)
• Promotional video status (Marty)
• Draft committee guidelines/duties in lieu of bylaws

Town Clerk

The trustees will review minutes from the Oct 21 and Oct 28 meetings, hear reports from the chair, director, and committees, and discuss library items such as the Children’s Room renovation, seed catalog, community art show, and the upcoming override election. A public forum will be held, and the next meeting will be scheduled for Dec 16.

• Review minutes from Oct 21 & Oct 28 meetings
• Library tour on Nov 22 at 10 am
• Children’s Room renovation (Director’s Report)
• Community Art Show (Director’s Report)
• Override election (Director’s Report)

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies (H.O.M.E.) board will approve the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting, hear reports from the chair, treasurer, and committee members, and discuss drafting committee guidelines in place of formal bylaws. The board will also consider setting the next meeting date for January 13.

• Approve minutes of October 14, 2025
• Treasurer’s report and update on spring business fundraiser
• Report of the Chair on thank‑you letters and sharing guidelines
• New business: write up committee guidelines/duties, in lieu of bylaws
• Set next meeting date, time, place – January 13?

The committee approved the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; members discussed reports, a Facebook posting schedule, and upcoming projects.

• Approved minutes of October 14, 2025 (no vote tally recorded)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will hear a citizen address, receive a presentation from MBTA Communities, and get an update from the Town Manager. They will review the Selectmen minutes, discuss miscellaneous items, and assign committee assignments. No specific policy decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Citizen Address
• MBTA Communities Presentation
• Town Manager’s Update
• Selectmen Minutes Review
• Committee Assignments

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss a presentation on MBTA Communities. The agenda also includes time for citizen addresses, appointments, and town manager updates.

• MBTA Communities Presentation
• Appointments, Licenses, and Permits
• Town Manager’s Update
• Committee Assignments

Agricultural Commission

The Holden Beach Agricultural Commission will review updates to the Open Space and Recreation Plan and discuss the latest Chapter 61 parcel scoring information. Additional topics include updates on Central Mass Grown, the Red Barn project, and the Central Mass Ag Roundtable. The meeting will also consider potential educational presentations on Chapter 61 and forest management.

• Chapter 61 parcel scoring update
• Open Space and Recreation Plan update
• Central Mass Grown update
• Red Barn update
• Central Mass Ag Roundtable review

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Town Committee meeting on November 13, 2025 will review the previous meeting minutes. Committee members will give brief updates, discuss maps and parcels, and outline a timeline for upcoming projects. Additional agenda items include community outreach and a wrap‑up.

Town Clerk

The committee will review the previous meeting's minutes. It will receive brief updates from members. The agenda includes a review of maps and parcels, any additional items, and a wrap‑up. No specific decisions or actions are listed in the agenda.

Town Clerk

The council will consider and vote to accept the minutes from the October 1, 2025 meeting. It will also hear reports from the Chairman, Friends, HELP at H.O.M.E., Board of Elder Services, Director, and the Age and Dementia Committee. The meeting includes old business, new business, and a citizens’ address from the Council on Aging. The session is scheduled for November 5, 2025 at 8 AM in the Senior Center.

• Acceptance of October 1, 2025 minutes (Chairman's Report)
• Friends Report
• HELP at H.O.M.E. September data (Susan Sullivan)
• Board of Elder Services Report (Rick Mansfield)
• Director’s Report (Karen Phillips)

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Conservation Commission will consider a series of requests for final certificates of compliance for single‑family homes and septic systems at various addresses. The agenda also includes construction updates for the Greenwood Estates Subdivision Phase II and notices of intent for new development at 71 Sterling Road, Lot 2 Bryant Road, and Lot 3 Bryant Road. Additional items are project updates for several town projects and other business such as a habitat‑management grant and culvert assessments.

• Request for Final Certificate of Compliance – 55 Muschopague Road (Lot 2R) – James Harrity, Simac Realty Trust
• Request for Final Certificate of Compliance – 47 Muschopague Road (Lot 4R) – James Harrity, Simac Realty Trust
• Request for Final Certificate of Compliance – 60 Deanna Drive (Lot 48R) – Greenwood Estates, Jackson Woods Investments, LLC
• Notice of Intent – 71 Sterling Road – single‑family home, septic and driveway extension within 200‑foot Riverfront Area (Jay Finlay, Finlay Engineering; Paul McManus, Eco‑Tec, Inc; Andrew Meader, owner)
• Greenwood Estates Subdivision Construction Update, Phase II, Grace’s Way, Restoration Areas, Drainage

Conservation Commission

The Holden Conservation Commission will consider several Notice of Intent applications and requests for final certificates of compliance for single‑family homes and associated site work. Many of the projects are located within 100‑foot regulatory buffers or a 200‑foot Riverfront Area, triggering wetland and buffer reviews. The agenda also includes updates on ongoing projects and other business items such as habitat‑management grants.

• Notice of Intent – 71 STERLING RD (Map 16, Parcel 7, DEP File #183-0xxx): single‑family home, septic and driveway extension within the 200‑foot Riverfront Area and 100‑foot wetland buffer.
• Notice of Intent – LOT 2 BRYANT ROAD (Map 56, Parcel 9/10, DEP File #183-0xxx): single‑family home, septic within the 100‑foot regulatory buffer.
• Request for Final Certificate of Compliance – 55 MUSCHOPAGUE ROAD (Lot 2R, Map 84, Parcel 5, DEP File #183-0709): home and septic system within the 100‑foot buffer.
• Request for Final Certificate of Compliance – 60 DEANNA DRIVE (Lot 48R, DEP File #183-0667): common driveway within the vernal pool resource area with temporary impacts and restoration.
• Request for Final Certificate of Compliance – MALDEN STREET LOT (Donna Ripley, Map 174, Parcel 32, DEP File #183-0327): construction of a single‑family home and driveway; work never started, OOC dated 5‑2‑2001.

Board of Selectmen

The Board appointed William (Ralph) Morse to the Agricultural Commission for a three‑year term and reappointed Maleah Gustafson despite one dissenting vote. They unanimously approved signing a letter urging state leaders to support the Mass Central Rail Trail project. The Board adopted a residential tax factor of 1, passing the motion 4‑1. Additional actions included granting a non‑emergency staff day off on Nov 28, scheduling a dog‑dangerousness hearing for Dec 1, and directing the Town Manager to prepare a one‑year Proposition 2½ override proposal.

• William (Ralph) Morse appointed to Agricultural Commission (unanimous)
• Maleah Gustafson reappointed to Agricultural Commission (4–1)
• Signed letter supporting Mass Central Rail Trail (unanimous)
• Adopted residential tax factor of 1 (4–1)
• Approved non‑emergency staff day off on Nov 28 (aye vote)
• Scheduled dog dangerousness hearing for Dec 1 (unanimous)
• Directed Town Manager to prepare one‑year Prop 2½ override proposal (consensus)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Clerk

The Board of Selectmen will hold its regular meeting with updates from the Town Manager and Town Clerk, and will discuss a special town election, a special town meeting, and a Proposition 2½ tax‑override. Additional agenda items include appointments to the Agricultural Commission, a presentation on the Wachusett Greenways Mass Central Rail Trail, a tax classification hearing, and setting a public hearing date for dog complaints.

• Agricultural Commission Appointment – William Morse (11/3/25‑11/3/28)
• Agricultural Commission Reappointment – Maleah Gustafson (11/2/25‑11/2/28)
• Wachusett Greenways presentation by Colleen Abrams, Mass Central Rail Trail
• Tax Classification Hearing
• Proposition 2½ Override Discussion

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach MBTA Communities Act Working Group will meet to review maps, timeline items, and public input. The meeting is held via Zoom.

• Review of Maps
• Timeline for MBTA Communities Act
• Public Input session
• Information from Other Committees

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach MBTA Communities Act Working Group will meet to review maps, timeline, and public input. The meeting is held via Zoom.

• Review of maps
• Timeline and public input
• Information from other committees

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a site plan review for a commercial building expansion and discuss roadway improvements for a subdivision. The board will also review minutes from the October 14, 2025, meeting.

• Site plan review for commercial building expansion at 1116 Wachusett Street
• Roadway improvements update for Greenwood Estates II subdivision at Union Street/Highland Street

The board closed the hearing on 1116 Wachusett Street and approved the site‑plan review to allow the commercial building expansion, subject to conditions, with a 4‑0‑0 vote. The October 14, 2025 meeting minutes were also approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 7:13 pm.

• Closed hearing on 1116 Wachusett Street (4-0-0)
• Granted site‑plan review for expansion at 1116 Wachusett Street, subject to conditions (4-0-0)
• Approved October 14, 2025 Planning Board minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:13 pm (4-0-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a site plan for a commercial building expansion and discuss roadway updates for a subdivision. The board will also review minutes from the October 14, 2025, meeting.

• Site plan review for commercial building expansion at 1116 Wachusett Street
• Roadway improvements update for Greenwood Estates II subdivision at Union Street/Highland Street

The Planning Board closed the hearing on 1116 Wachusett Street and approved the site‑plan review to allow the commercial building expansion, subject to conditions. The board also approved the October 14, 2025 minutes and adjourned the meeting at 7:13 p.m.

• Closed hearing on 1116 Wachusett Street (4-0-0)
• Granted site‑plan review for expansion of 1116 Wachusett Street commercial building, subject to conditions (4-0-0)
• Approved October 14, 2025 Planning Board minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:13 p.m. (4-0-0)

Town Clerk

The Planning Board will review the site plan for a commercial building expansion at 1116 Wachusett Street, receive an update on roadway improvements for the Greenwood Estates II subdivision at Union and Highland Streets, and consider approval of the October 14, 2025 meeting minutes.

• 1116 Wachusett Street – site plan review for commercial building expansion (postponed from 10/14/25)
• Union Street/Highland Street – update on roadway improvements for Greenwood Estates II subdivision
• Review and approve minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting

Town Clerk

The Board of Assessors will accept the minutes from the September 23, 2025 meeting. It will review motor vehicle excise commitments and abatements for 2024 and 2025 and discuss real estate and personal property matters for fiscal year 2026. The agenda also includes a classification hearing scheduled for November 3 at Town Hall, a recommendation on the residential factor, and updates on personal exemption and Chapter Land applications. Employee updates on cyclical inspections will be noted.

• Motor Vehicle Excise – 2024 and 2025 commitments/abatement totals
• Fiscal Year 2026: Real Estate and Personal Property matters
• Classification Hearing scheduled for November 3, Town Hall
• Recommendation for Residential Factor
• Personal exemption applications being returned

Board of Assessors

The Board will accept the minutes from its September 23, 2025 meeting. It will review motor vehicle excise commitments and abatement totals for 2024 and 2025. The board will discuss fiscal year 2026 real estate and personal property matters, including a classification hearing scheduled for November 3 and a recommendation for a residential factor. Personal exemption applications and chapter land applications will also be addressed.

• Acceptance of minutes from September 23, 2025
• Review of motor vehicle excise commitments and abatement totals for 2024 and 2025
• Discussion of fiscal year 2026 real estate and personal property matters
• Classification hearing scheduled for November 3 at Town Hall
• Recommendation for residential factor

The Board of Assessors accepted the minutes from the September 23, 2025 meeting. No new motor‑vehicle excise commitments were issued, and abatements for prior years were listed. The board noted upcoming items for Fiscal Year 2026, staff inspections, and Chapter Land application returns. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved September 23, 2025 meeting minutes

Agricultural Commission

The Holden Beach Agricultural Commission will meet to review past minutes, discuss updates to Chapter 61 parcel scoring, and introduce a potential new member. The agenda includes items regarding farmland of local importance, a farmer's market banner, and meeting schedules.

• Review/Accept Past Meeting Minutes
• Farmland of Local Importance
• Chapter 61 Parcel Scoring Update
• Introduction of potential new member
• Farmer's Market Banner

Health Department/Board of Health

The Board of Health will approve minutes from August 19 and September 23, 2025. It will review Title V inspection outcomes for three properties and discuss ongoing septic system installations, abandonments, and repairs. A health director report will be presented covering a DEP site visit, water department concerns, an FDA grant update, and Narcan training. The meeting will also consider the MDPH Municipal Grant Program.

• Approve minutes from August 19, 2025 and September 23, 2025
• Title V inspections: 75 Nelson St – passes; 37 Driftwood Dr – conditionally passes; 156 Newell Rd – conditionally passes
• Septic projects: abandonment at 246 Doyle Rd and 264 Brattle St; repair at 576 Reservoir St; D‑Box replacement at 156 Newell Rd
• Health Director report: DEP site visit at 61 Miles Ave, Worcester Water Dept concerns, FDA grant update, Narcan training
• Discuss MDPH Municipal Grant Program

The Holden Board of Health approved the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; the board received reports on Title V inspections, septic system work, food and septic inspections, a DEP site visit, an E‑Coli investigation, an FDA grant update, and upcoming Narcan training. Members also discussed the MDPH Municipal Grant Program and future substance‑abuse support. The next meeting is set for November 18, 2025.

• Approved August 19, 2025 meeting minutes

Town Clerk

The Board of Health will review Title V inspection results and septic system repairs for several properties. The meeting includes a report from Health Director Trevor Bruso regarding site visits and grants.

• Title V inspections for 75 Nelson Street, 37 Driftwood Drive, and 156 Newell Road
• Septic abandonment at 246 Doyle Road and 264 Brattle Street
• Septic system repair at 576 Reservoir Street
• DEP Site Visit at 61 Miles Ave
• Discussion of MDPH Municipal Grant Program

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Recreation Committee will meet on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 6:00 pm in the Recreation Department conference room. The agenda includes a call to order, an update on the start of B&A Programs, a review of policy and procedures, setting the next meeting date, and adjournment. No specific decisions beyond scheduling are indicated.

• Update on start of B&A Programs
• Review of policy and procedures
• Set next meeting date

Town Clerk

The committee will introduce a potential new member and review the prior meeting minutes. It will discuss old‑business items, including farmland of local importance and a Chapter 61 parcel scoring update. The meeting will also consider new‑business items such as a farmer’s market banner, the upcoming meeting schedule, and a proposed idea for fall/winter activities.

• Farmland of Local Importance
• Chapter 61 Parcel Scoring Update
• Farmer’s Market Banner
• Meeting schedule
• One Big Idea for Fall/Winter

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee will meet to discuss the start of B&A Programs and review policy and procedures. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 6:00 pm in the Recreation Department Conference Room.

• Review of policy and procedures
• Update on start of B&A Programs
• Set next meeting date
• Meeting held at Recreation Department- Conference Room
• Meeting starts at 6:00 pm

Trustees of Damon Memorial Library

The Trustees of Damon Memorial Library will meet to review the Director's report and committee updates. The meeting includes a discussion on the financing and status of the Children’s Room renovation.

• Children’s Room renovation update and financing
• Library tour scheduled for Oct 25 at 10 am

Dawson Recreation Complex Committee

The Dawson Recreational Complex Committee will conduct routine business, including signing payment requisitions and meeting minutes. No substantive agenda items are listed. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the construction site on Industrial Drive.

• Open payment requisitions to be signed
• Meeting minutes to be signed

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss a Proposition 2½ Override. The agenda also includes a review of a common victualer license for Colony Retirement Homes.

• Common Victualer license for Colony Retirement Homes
• Discussion of Proposition 2½ Override

The board voted unanimously to approve the license for the Colonial Victualer and Colony Retirement Homes event on October 18, 2025. It also unanimously approved the official Halloween trick‑or‑treat hours as recommended by the police chief. No other actions were decided; the proposed Proposition 2½ tax override was only discussed.

• Approved license for Colonial Victualer/Colony Retirement Homes event (unanimous)
• Approved Halloween trick‑or‑treat hours as recommended (unanimous)

Town Clerk

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss a Proposition 2½ Override. The agenda also includes a permit review for Colony Retirement Homes and a Town Manager's update.

• Common Victualer permit for Colony Retirement Homes (10/18/25)
• Discussion of Proposition 2½ Override

Town Clerk

The Dawson Recreational Complex Committee will conduct routine business, including signing payment requisitions and meeting minutes. No substantive policy decisions or projects are on the agenda. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025 at 6:30 pm at the construction site on Industrial Drive.

• Open payment requisitions to be signed
• Meeting minutes to be signed
• Any other matters before the committee
• Call to order
• Adjourn

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet on October 15, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall, 1196 Main Street, Holden. The agenda includes discussion of a potential FY27 Proposition 2½ tax override. No other agenda items are listed.

• Potential FY27 Proposition 2½ tax override

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Finance Committee will meet on October 15, 2025 at 6:30 PM in Town Hall, Memorial Hall, 1196 Main Street. The committee’s agenda includes a discussion of a potential FY27 Proposition 2½ tax override. No other agenda items are listed.

• Potential FY27 Proposition 2½ tax override – discussion

Town Clerk

The Board of Selectmen will meet on October 15, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall, 1196 Main Street, Holden. The agenda includes discussion of a potential FY27 Proposition 2 1/2 override. No other items are listed.

• Discuss potential FY27 Proposition 2 1/2 override

Town Clerk

The Holden Housing Authority Board will vote on several resolutions, including a union contract, a 2026 utility allowance schedule, and acceptance of an administrative plan for the HUD Section 8 HCV program. The board will also approve September financials and receive reports on modernization, state‑aided housing, and leased housing. Additional items include FY2026 budget guidelines, a search for a chief administrative and financial officer, and amendments to 760 CMR 5.00.

• Resolution 2025-17 – Union Contract
• Resolution 2025-18 – 2026 Utility Allowance Schedule
• Resolution 2025-19 – Acceptance of Administrative Plan for HUD Section 8 HCV Program
• Approval of September financials
• Seeking pre‑qualified candidates for Chief Administrative and Financial Officer (CAFO)

Finance Committee

The Holden Beach Finance Committee is scheduled to discuss a potential Proposition 2 1/2 override for Fiscal Year 2027. The meeting is set to take place at Town Hall on October 15, 2025.

• Discussion of FY27 Proposition 2 1/2 override
• Finance Committee meeting at Town Hall

The Finance Committee held a joint meeting with the Board of Selectmen and the WRSD, delivering a televised presentation on the proposed Proposition 2½ Override for FY 2027. Committee members answered audience questions, and the meeting adjourned without any motions, votes, or approvals recorded.

Planning Board

The Holden Beach Planning Board will meet remotely on October 14, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. The board will review a site plan for a commercial building expansion at 1116 Wachusett Street. It will consider a proposal to adopt electronic signatures under M.G.L. c. 110G, referencing Amendment 13‑7 to the Massachusetts Deed Indexing Standards 2018. The agenda also includes discussion of MBTA Communities Act Working Group appointments, a non‑required approval for a two‑lot creation at 520 Manning Street, and approval of the September 23, 2025 minutes.

• Review site plan for commercial building expansion at 1116 Wachusett Street
• Discuss and possibly adopt electronic signatures under M.G.L. c. 110G (Amendment 13‑7 to 2018 Deed Indexing Standards)
• Discuss MBTA Communities Act Working Group member appointment
• Review and approve September 23, 2025 meeting minutes
• 520 Manning Street lot creation noted as not requiring board approval (ANR)

The board endorsed an ANR under the Subdivision Control Act to create two lots at 520 Manning Street. It postponed the site‑plan review for the commercial expansion at 1116 Wachusett Street until the applicant can attend. The board adopted the use of electronic signatures for its documents, approved the September 23, 2025 minutes, and adjourned the meeting.

• Endorsed ANR for 520 Manning Street creation of two lots (4-0-0)
• Postponed site‑plan review for 1116 Wachusett Street commercial expansion (4-0-0)
• Recognized and accepted M.G.L. c. 110G electronic signatures for board documents (4-0-0)
• Approved September 23, 2025 Planning Board meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:22 pm (4-0-0)

Planning Board

The Holden Beach Planning Board will review and approve the September 23, 2025 minutes. It will discuss a site‑plan review for a commercial building expansion at 1116 Wachusett Street. The board will consider adopting electronic signatures under M.G.L. c. 110G. A discussion and member appointment for the MBTA Communities Act Working Group is also on the agenda.

• 520 Manning Street – notice that approval is not required for creation of two lots under the subdivision control act
• 1116 Wachusett Street – site‑plan review for commercial building expansion
• MBTA Communities Act Working Group – discussion and member appointment
• Electronic Signatures – discussion of possible adoption of M.G.L. c. 110G
• Minutes – review and approval of September 23, 2025 meeting minutes

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Planning Board will review a subdivision plan for 520 Manning Street that creates two lots and does not require approval. It will conduct a site plan review for a commercial building expansion at 1116 Wachusett Street. The board will discuss the MBTA Communities Act Working Group member appointment and consider adopting electronic signatures under M.G.L. c. 110G. Finally, the board will review and approve the September 23, 2025 minutes.

• 520 Manning Street – approval not required (ANR) for creation of two lots
• 1116 Wachusett Street – site plan review for commercial building expansion
• MBTA Communities Act Working Group – discussion and member appointment
• Electronic Signatures – discussion and possible adoption of M.G.L. c. 110G
• Minutes – review and approve September 23, 2025 meeting minutes

Town Clerk

The Town Council will approve the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting. It will hear reports from the chair and treasurer, including an update on a spring business fundraiser. The council will discuss revised H@H guidelines and an HCOA update, review a video promotion for HCTV, and set the date for the next meeting.

• Approve minutes of September 16, 2025 meeting
• Treasurer’s report and spring business fundraiser update
• Revised H@H guidelines / HCOA update
• Review video promotion for HCTV
• Set date, time, place for November 18 meeting

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The H.O.M.E. committee approved updated guidelines for the 2025 outreach program with a procedural change to the maximum assistance amount. The group also discussed plans for a promotional video and fundraising efforts.

• Approved revised H@H guidelines with a $1 increase to the maximum assistance amount
• Discussed plans for a promotional video to recruit new members
• Treasurer reported no updated numbers due to the fiscal year end
• Marty will take over social media posts following Amy Curran's resignation
• Fundraising letter will be sent in HMLD mailings in batches

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The Holden Beach Help at H.O.M.E. board will discuss revised H@H guidelines and an update from the Holden Community Outreach Association. A video promotion for HCTV will be reviewed. The meeting includes routine reports, a treasurer’s update on the spring fundraiser, and a decision on the next meeting date.

• Revised H@H guidelines / HCOA update
• Video promotion for HCTV – review
• Treasurer’s report, including spring business fundraiser update
• Committee reports (including Facebook posts)
• Set next meeting date, time, place – November 18?

Holden Community Garden Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. It approved a Yoga in the Garden event on Saturday, September 13 with a rain date of September 20, and authorized covering the $10 participation cost for garden members from the donation account. The Fall Clean‑up was scheduled for November 1, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. with a tree‑pruning demonstration at 11 a.m., and plans were set for surplus harvest collection for the Holden Senior Center.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (Motion #1)
• Approved Yoga in the Garden event for Sat. Sep 13, rain date Sep 20 (Motion #2)
• Approved covering yoga participation cost for garden members $10 per person from donation account (Motion #3)
• Approved Fall Clean‑up date Nov 1, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. with tree‑pruning demo at 11 a.m. (Motion #4)
• Michael will collect surplus garden harvests for donation to Holden Senior Center, placing a cooler near Water Tower 2 and delivering Thursday mornings
• Committee members will assist Lillian and Christopher Lindberg with tomato plant staking and trellising

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The meeting will approve the September 16, 2025 minutes and hear the Chair's outreach report. Committee reports include the Treasurer's update on a spring business fundraiser and social media activity. The board will discuss revised H@H guidelines and a Home Care Outreach Association update, and review a video promotion for HCTV. The next meeting date will be set for November 18.

• Approve minutes of September 16, 2025
• Treasurer’s report on spring business fundraiser email follow‑up and Facebook posts
• Revised H@H guidelines / HCOA update
• Review video promotion for HCTV
• Set next meeting date for November 18

Holden Community Garden Committee

The Holden Community Garden Committee will review the September 10, 2025 minutes and consider any amendments. Members will discuss follow‑up plans for a yoga event, compost program updates, and a grant opportunity for a school garden club. Additional topics include a perennial garden, scout projects, and a community harvest. The meeting will conclude with old and new business before adjourning.

• Review of previous minutes (September 10, 2025) and motions to approve or amend
• Discussion of yoga event follow‑up and clean‑up plans
• Compost program updates
• Discussion of Garden Club grant opportunity for schools
• Planning of perennial garden, scout projects, and community harvest

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Town Council will review the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes. It will discuss plans for a yoga event and cleanup, provide updates on the town compost program, consider a Garden Club grant opportunity, and address a perennial garden project along with other community activities. The council will also handle any old or new business before adjourning.

• Review of previous minutes (September 10, 2025)
• Event discussion/planning: yoga followup and clean up plans
• Compost updates
• School followup – discussion of Garden Club grant opportunity
• Perennial Garden

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen voted to add James Sakorafos to the MBTA Communities Working Group, passing the motion 4‑1. They then unanimously approved three additional members—Mary Jude Pigsley, Elizabeth Brennan, and Victor Panak—bringing the group to four members. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Appointed James Sakorafos to MBTA Communities Working Group (4 in favor, 1 opposed)
• Appointed Mary Jude Pigsley to MBTA Communities Working Group (unanimous)
• Appointed Elizabeth Brennan to MBTA Communities Working Group (unanimous)
• Appointed Victor Panak to MBTA Communities Working Group (unanimous)

Town Clerk

The Board of Selectmen will hold its regular meeting on October 6, 2025. The agenda includes a citizen address, discussion of appointments, licenses and permits, a Ripple Fiber item, and the acceptance of a $3,200 Pepsi donation for an automated external defibrillator. Additional selectmen business such as minutes, miscellaneous items, and committee assignments will also be addressed.

• Citizen address
• Appointments, licenses, permits
• Ripple Fiber discussion
• Acceptance of $3,200 Pepsi donation for AED
• Selectmen minutes and miscellaneous business

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss a potential FY27 Proposition 2 1/2 override. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of potential FY27 Proposition 2 1/2 override

Town Clerk

The Berkshire Wind Power Cooperative Corporation membership will meet virtually on Oct. 3, 2025. The meeting will approve minutes from the November 15, 2024 membership and executive sessions, elect a director to fill a vacancy, and receive an operations/status report. Additional items may be discussed before adjournment.

• Approve minutes from the Nov. 15, 2024 membership session
• Approve minutes from the Nov. 15, 2024 executive session
• Election of a director to fill a vacancy
• Operations/status report
• Other items as may arise

Town Clerk

The Conservation Commission will discuss construction updates for Greenwood Estates and review several requests for determinations of applicability and certificates of compliance. The body will also consider a forest cutting plan and the 2025 invasive plant management plan.

• Request to replace underground storage tank with above-ground tank at 55 Moy Ranch Road
• Landscaping and backyard conversion request at 120 Moscow Road
• Certificates of compliance for single family homes and septic systems at 47 and 55 Muschopague Road
• Forest cutting plan for 34 acres off Mason Road
• Discussion of Bylaw Fees and MBTA Communities Act Working Group

Town Clerk

The Council on Aging is meeting to elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary. The body will also review reports from the Director, Board of Elder Services, and Help at H.O.M.E.

• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Acceptance of September 3, 2025 minutes
• Review of August data from Help at H.O.M.E.

Conservation Commission

The Commission is reviewing several requests for determinations of applicability and certificates of compliance for residential work. The body will also discuss a forest cutting plan and the MA DOT 2025 Invasive Plant Management Plan.

• Request to replace underground storage tank with above-ground tank at 55 Moy Ranch Road
• Landscaping and upland conversion request at 120 Moscow Road
• Certificates of compliance for homes and septic systems at 47 and 55 Muschopague Road
• Chapter 132-DCR forest cutting plan for 34 acres off Mason Road
• Emergency certifications for 3 and 67 Twinbrooke Drive

Dementia Friendly Community Committee

The committee will discuss recommendations from UMASS Town Studies. Members will also set the dates and times for dementia information sessions intended for town employees and citizens.

• Review of UMASS Town Studies and recommendations
• Scheduling of dementia information sessions for employees and citizens
• Approval of September 9th meeting minutes

Town Clerk

The Holden Dementia and Age Friendly Committee will accept the minutes from the September 9 meeting. Members will discuss comments on the UMASS Town Studies and related recommendations. The committee will also set dates and times for dementia information sessions for town employees and citizens.

• Accept minutes from September 9 meeting
• Discuss comments and recommendations from UMASS Town Studies
• Set dates and times for dementia information sessions for employees and citizens

Town Clerk

The Finance Committee is meeting to review the 5-year budget forecast. This is the only substantive item listed on the agenda.

• Review of 5 Year Budget Forecast

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss the town’s five‑year budget forecast. The meeting will consider projected revenues and expenditures for upcoming years. No other agenda items are listed.

• Review 5‑Year Budget Forecast

Health Department/Board of Health

The Board of Health will review Title V water inspection results for 246 Doyle Road (fails) and for 216 River Street and 61 Old Broad Street (passes). It will discuss several septic system projects, including a replacement at 108 Howard Street, abandonments at 54 Putnam Lane and 139 North Street, an upgrade at 139 North Street, and a new system at 430 Bailey Road. The board will also consider a variance request for 125 Moscow Rd, approve the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting, and receive updates on an FDA grant and Narcan training.

• Title V inspections: 246 Doyle Rd (fails), 216 River St (passes), 61 Old Broad St (passes)
• Septic work: replacement at 108 Howard St; abandonment at 54 Putnam Ln and 139 North St; upgrade at 139 North St; new system at 430 Bailey Rd
• Approve minutes from Aug 19, 2025 meeting
• Variance request for 125 Moscow Rd
• FDA grant and Narcan training

The Holden Board of Health voted unanimously (3‑0) to deny the Title 5 variance request for a septic system at 125 Moscow Road. Board members cited the risk to the public drinking water supply and the requirement for a 100‑foot setback from wetlands. The board also announced that Narcan overdose‑reversal training is scheduled for October 2 in Barre, with plans for additional training in town. The meeting adjourned at 7:04 p.m.

• Denied 125 Moscow Road septic variance request (3‑0)
• Scheduled Narcan overdose‑reversal training for Oct 2 in Barre

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a lot creation plan and a special permit for a common driveway. The board will also discuss member appointments for the MBTA Communities Act Working Group.

• 128 Lovell Road: approval not required (ANR) plan for creation of two lots
• 94 Wachusett Street: special permit common driveway decision
• MBTA Communities Act Working Group: member appointment discussion

Planning Board

The Holden Beach Planning Board will meet remotely on September 23, 2025. The board will review and approve the minutes from the September 9, 2025 meeting. It will consider a special permit for a common driveway at 94 Wachusett Street. It will also note that an amendment not required (ANR) for 128 Lovell Road will be recorded.

• 128 Lovell Road – amendment not required (ANR) for creation of two lots under the Subdivision Control Act
• 94 Wachusett Street – special permit for a common driveway, to be reviewed and approved
• MBTA Communities Act Working Group – discussion and member appointment
• Review and approval of September 9, 2025 minutes

The board approved an ANR for 128 Lovell Road, contingent on a complete plan showing the new lot dimensions relative to setbacks. It also approved the special‑permit decision for a common driveway on 94 Wachusett Street and ratified the September 9, 2025 meeting minutes. Members voted to postpone appointing a member to the MBTA Communities Act Working Group until further details are released.

• Approved ANR for 128 Lovell Road, subject to complete lot‑dimension plan (4-0-0)
• Approved special‑permit decision for common driveway on 94 Wachusett Street (4-0-0)
• Approved September 9, 2025 Planning Board meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Decided to postpone appointment to MBTA Communities Act Working Group (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:25 p.m. (4-0-0)

Town Clerk

The Planning Board will review and approve a subdivision plan for 128 Lovell Road and a special permit for a common driveway at 94 Wachusett Street. The board will also discuss the MBTA Communities Act Working Group and approve minutes from September 9, 2025.

• Review and approve 128 Lovell Road subdivision plan
• Review and approve 94 Wachusett Street special permit
• MBTA Communities Act Working Group discussion
• Approve September 9, 2025 minutes
• Remote meeting via Zoom

Town Clerk

The Board of Assessors will accept the minutes from the July 29, 2025 meeting. It will review motor vehicle excise commitments and abatements for 2024 and 2025, and discuss the supplemental real estate tax bills issued on September 15 for FY2025. The board will consider finalizing residential, commercial, industrial, and personal property values for FY2026, including reviewing new and renewal Chapter 61 forestry plan applications.

• Accept minutes from July 29, 2025 meeting
• Review motor vehicle excise commitments/abatements for 2024‑2025
• Discuss FY2025 supplemental real estate tax bills issued Sep 15
• Consider FY2026 residential, commercial, industrial, and personal property values
• Review new and renewal Chapter 61 forestry plan applications

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Board of Health will report Title V septic inspection results for three properties. It will discuss the replacement, abandonment, or upgrade of several septic systems at listed addresses. The board will consider a variance request for 125 Moscow Rd and receive updates on a DEP site visit, an FDA grant, and Narcan training. Minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting will also be approved.

• Title V inspections: 246 Doyle Rd (fails), 216 River St (passes), 61 Old Broad St (passes)
• Septic projects: 108 Howard St (tank replacement), 54 Putnam Ln (abandonment), 139 North St (abandonment and upgrade), 430 Bailey Rd (new system)
• 125 Moscow Rd variance request
• Approve minutes from Aug 19, 2025
• Discussion of DEP site visit, FDA grant, and Narcan training

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review 2024 and 2025 motor vehicle excise totals, finalize Fiscal Year 2026 real estate and personal property values, and address forestry plan applications. The board will also welcome a new member and set the date for the next meeting.

• Finalize Fiscal Year 2026 residential, commercial, and industrial property values
• Review Fiscal Year 2026 personal property values
• Review new and renewal Chapter 61 forestry plan applications
• Welcome new board member Sean Xenos
• Set date for next Board of Assessors meeting

The board approved the minutes from the July 29, 2025 meeting. It also approved Chapter 61 forestry plans: a renewal for Harrison on South Road and a new plan for Somerset on Main St/Cannon Rd. No other decisions were recorded.

• Approved July 29, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved Chapter 61 forestry plan renewal for Harrison – South Road
• Approved Chapter 61 forestry plan new for Somerset – Main St/Cannon Rd

Board of Selectmen

The Holden Beach Board of Selectmen will conduct its regular meeting, including a citizen address and updates from the DPW director and town manager. The board will formally accept a $3,200 donation from Oriol Healthcare for an automated external defibrillator. Additional agenda items include discussion of the MBTACA Committee, response to the citizen address, and assignment of committee roles.

• Acceptance of $3,200 donation from Oriol Healthcare for an AED
• Introduction of DPW Director Nick Schwartz
• Town Manager’s update
• MBTACA Committee discussion
• Committee assignments

The Selectmen unanimously approved a $3,200 donation from Oriol Healthcare for AED devices. They also unanimously accepted the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes as written. A unanimous motion directed the Town Manager to draft the charge for the new MBTA committee.

• Accepted $3,200 Oriol Healthcare AED donation (unanimous)
• Accepted September 8, 2025 meeting minutes as written (unanimous)
• Directed Town Manager to outline charge for MBTA committee (unanimous)

Town Clerk

The Board of Selectmen meeting on September 22, 2025 will hear a citizen address, review appointments, licenses and permits, receive an introduction from DPW Director Nick Schwartz, accept a $3,200 donation from Oriol Healthcare for an AED, receive a Town Manager update, and discuss the MBTACA Committee. No specific decisions are noted beyond the agenda items.

• Acceptance of donation from Oriol Healthcare, $3,200 for an AED
• Citizens address
• Appointments, licenses, permits
• Town Manager’s update
• MBTACA Committee discussion

Municipal Electric Power Advisory Board

The board unanimously approved the September 4, 2025 minutes. It recommended the 2026 operating budget of $20,775,820 and the 2026 capital budget of $3,679,625.34 to the Board of Commissioners. The board also approved the revised street‑lighting rate for calendar year 2026.

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Recommended 2026 Operating Budget $20,775,820 to Board of Commissioners (all in favor)
• Recommended 2026 Capital Budget $3,679,625.34 to Board of Commissioners (all in favor)
• Approved street‑lighting rate adjustment for 2026 (all in favor)

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Finance Committee will meet on September 17, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the Senior Center. The committee will consider several items including a re‑organization, an update from the Town Manager, new guidance on open‑meeting law compliance, and planning for upcoming fall meetings. A key decision will be whether to accept or reject the discussion topics that were presented at the June 25, 2025 meeting. The committee will also approve the minutes from that June meeting before adjourning.

• Committee re‑organization
• Town Manager update
• New guidance on open‑meeting law compliance
• Decision on discussion topics from 6‑25‑25 meeting
• Approve minutes from 6‑25‑25

Town Clerk

The Holden Housing Authority Board will approve the minutes from the 8/20/2025 meeting, review executive director reports, and adopt the July and August financial statements. Administration reports on modernization, state‑aided housing, and leased housing will be discussed. New Business includes Resolution 2025-16, which sets payment standards for 2026. The meeting will also include a tenant organization report and correspondence on FY2026 budget guidelines.

• Approval of 8/20/2025 regular meeting minutes
• Approval of July and August financial statements
• Executive Director report items: election of officers, personnel changes, heat pump meeting review, LTO, Sea Crest Re‑Cap
• Resolution 2025-16 approval of 2026 payment standards
• EOHLC PHN 2025-11 FY2026 budget guidelines correspondence

Finance Committee

The Holden Beach Finance Committee will discuss a re-organization of its structure. It will receive an update from the Town Manager and review new guidance on open meeting law compliance. The committee will also consider discussion topics from the June 25, 2025 meeting, decide whether to accept or reject them, and approve the minutes from that meeting.

• Committee re-organization
• Town Manager update
• New guidance on open meeting law compliance
• Review and decision on discussion topics from 6-25-25 meeting
• Approve minutes from 6-25-25

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners will convene to approve previous meeting minutes, review committee reports including a spring fundraiser update, and discuss census options and Home@Home guidelines.

• Approval of August 12, 2025 minutes
• Treasurer's report and spring business fundraiser update
• Discussion on census options
• Review of Revised H@H guidelines
• HCTV video promotion

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The meeting will begin with a call to order and approval of the August 12, 2025 minutes. Reports will be given by the chair, treasurer, and on the spring business fundraiser and Facebook posts. The committee will review revised H@H guidelines and an HCOA update, and consider a video promotion for HCTV. The session will close by setting the next meeting date and adjourning.

• Approve minutes of August 12, 2025
• Treasurer’s report
• Update on spring business fundraiser
• Revised H@H guidelines / HCOA update
• Video promotion for HCTV

The council approved the August 12 minutes as read. It decided not to proceed with a fundraiser appeal that would use census data due to potential ethics violations. An email for the spring fundraiser was approved pending technical resolution. The next meeting was scheduled for October 14, 2025.

• Approved August 12 minutes (as read)
• Decided not to proceed with census-based fundraiser appeal
• Approved spring fundraiser email to be sent once technical issue resolved
• Set next meeting for Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 4 pm
• Planned HCTV video filming on Oct 20 at 7 pm
• Assigned Susie to investigate story opportunity with Wachusett Free Press

Holden Community Garden Committee

The Holden Community Garden Committee will review previous minutes, discuss composting, and plan for upcoming community events and school grants. The group will also address upkeep for the perennial garden and scout projects.

• Review of previous minutes (August 2025)
• Compost discussion
• School followup: discussion of Garden Club grants
• Perennial Garden and common area upkeep
• Scout projects

Town Clerk

The Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss a notice of intent for stabilized fill slope creation at Vista Circle and Steppingstone Drive. The body will also address enforcement matters for two properties.

• Notice of Intent for retaining wall repair at 34, 38, 40 Vista Circle and 37 Steppingstone Drive
• Enforcement action for 259 Salisbury Street
• Enforcement action for 305 Bryant Road

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Town Council will review the August 2025 meeting minutes, plan upcoming garden events, and discuss compost initiatives. The council will also follow up on Garden Club grant matters and consider upkeep plans for the perennial garden and common areas. No final decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Review of August 2025 meeting minutes
• Event planning for the community garden
• Discussion of compost program
• Follow‑up on Garden Club grant applications
• Plans for perennial garden and common area upkeep

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider a Notice of Intent to repair a failed retaining wall behind homes at 34, 38, 40 Vista Circle and 37 Steppingstone Drive. The proposed work includes creating a stabilized fill slope, part of which lies within the 100‑foot buffer to the BVW and Riverfront Area. The agenda also includes enforcement matters at 259 Salisbury Street and 305 Bryant Road.

• Notice of Intent – Vista Circle retaining wall repair (34,38,40 Vista Circle; 37 Steppingstone Drive)
• Stabilized fill slope work within 100‑foot buffer to BVW and Riverfront Area
• DEP File #183-0721 referenced for the project
• Enforcement issue at 259 Salisbury Street
• Enforcement issue at 305 Bryant Road

Dementia Friendly Community Committee

The Holden Beach Dementia Friendly Community Committee will consider accepting the minutes from the June and July meetings. It will review a recent UMASS survey conducted in other communities. The committee will also discuss its Action Plan.

• Accept minutes from June and July meetings
• Review recent UMASS survey data from other communities
• Review Action Plan

Planning Board

The Holden Beach Planning Board will consider two subdivision control act plan items that do not require approval, hold a public hearing on a special permit for a common driveway at 94 Wachusett Street, and review and approve the minutes from the August 26, 2025 meeting.

• 40 Princeton Street – approval not required (ANR) under the subdivision control act plan
• 94 Wachusett Street – approval not required (ANR) under the subdivision control act plan
• 94 Wachusett Street – public hearing on a special permit for a common driveway
• Review and approve minutes from the August 26, 2025 Planning Board meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit for a common driveway. The board will also review two subdivision control act plans where approval is not required.

• Public hearing for special permit common driveway at 94 Wachusett Street
• Approval not required (ANR) subdivision plan for 40 Princeton Street
• Approval not required (ANR) subdivision plan for 94 Wachusett Street
• Review and approval of August 26, 2025 minutes

The board approved the amendment‑in‑regulation (ANR) for 40 Princeton Street by a 4‑0‑0 vote. It also approved an ANR for 94 Wachusett Street and a special‑permit common driveway for the same property, each by 4‑0‑0 votes. The meeting minutes from August 26, 2025 were approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved ANR for 40 Princeton Street (4-0-0)
• Approved ANR for 94 Wachusett Street (4-0-0)
• Approved special‑permit common driveway for 94 Wachusett Street (4-0-0)
• Approved August 26, 2025 Planning Board minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:33 pm (4-0-0)

Town Clerk

The town meeting will accept the minutes from the June and July sessions. It will review recent UMASS survey data from other communities and an Action Plan. The meeting will also discuss matters of the Holden Dementia and Age Friendly Committee.

• Accept minutes from June and July
• Review recent UMASS survey data from other communities
• Review Action Plan
• Discuss Holden Dementia and Age Friendly Committee

Town Clerk

The Holden Beach Planning Board will review and approve the August 26, 2025 meeting minutes. It will note that no approval is required for the subdivision control act plans at 40 Princeton Street and 94 Wachusett Street. The board will conduct a public hearing on a special permit for a common driveway at 94 Wachusett Street.

• Review and approve minutes from August 26, 2025
• Note that 40 Princeton Street ANR does not require approval under the subdivision control act plan
• Note that 94 Wachusett Street ANR does not require approval under the subdivision control act plan
• Public hearing on a special permit for a common driveway at 94 Wachusett Street

Town Clerk

The Recreation Committee is meeting to receive an update on the start of B&A Programs. The body will also review policies and procedures.

• Update on start of B&A Programs
• Review of policy and procedures

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee will meet to discuss the start of B&A Programs and review policy and procedures. The meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2025, at 6:00 pm in the Recreation Department Conference Room.

• Review of policy and procedures
• Update on start of B&A Programs
• Set next meeting date

Board of Selectmen

The Board amended the proposed MBTA Communities Act Working Group motion to make the Town Manager and staff ex‑officio members, passing the amendment 3‑2‑0. A separate amendment to change resident selection from Board vote to Town Manager appointment was rejected 2‑3‑0. Several permits for local events were approved unanimously. The August 4, 2025 minutes were accepted unanimously.

• Amendment to make Town Manager ex‑officio members of MBTA Working Group passed (3-2-0)
• Amendment to have residents appointed by Town Manager instead of Board vote failed (2-3-0)
• One‑day wine and malt event at Summit Wynds Farm approved (unanimous)
• Wedding with 100 guests at Stone House approved pending departmental approval (unanimous)
• Parade permit for Holden Crop Hunger Walk approved (unanimous)
• Mayo PTA common victualer license approved (unanimous)
• Acceptance of August 4, 2025 minutes as written approved (unanimous)

Municipal Electric Power Advisory Board

The Municipal Electric Power Advisory Board approved the May 29, 2025 minutes with all members in favor. The board then moved into an executive session to discuss confidential information and adjourned. The financial report noted a $0.01 per kWh PCA increase effective September 1 and provided July load, outage, and revenue details.

• Approved May 29, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Entered executive session and adjourned (motion passed)

Town Clerk

The Council on Aging will meet to elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary. The body will also review reports from the Friends, Help at H.O.M.E., the Board of Elder Services, and the Age and Dementia Committee.

• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Review of April data from Help at H.O.M.E.
• Acceptance of June 4, 2025 minutes

Town Clerk

The Council on Aging is meeting to elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary. The body will also review reports from the Board of Elder Services and the Age and Dementia Committee.

• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Acceptance of June 4, 2025 minutes
• Review of April data from Help at H.O.M.E.

Planning Board

The Holden Beach Planning Board will meet to review and approve minutes from previous meetings, consider a request to extend time for Greenwood Estates, and discuss a tentative bond request for Pine Tree Estates.

• Review and approve minutes from June 24, August 5, and August 12, 2025
• Greenwood Estates: review and approve decision— extension of time request
• Pine Tree Estates: update, bond request (tentative)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a time extension request and plan modifications for Greenwood Estates. The board will also receive an update and a tentative bond request for Pine Tree Estates.

• Greenwood Estates: extension of time request and plan modifications
• Pine Tree Estates: update and tentative bond request
• Approval of minutes from June 24, August 5, and August 12, 2025

The Planning Board approved a $4,372,778 bond for the Pine Tree Estates project, authorizing Wingspan Properties to post the full amount pending town counsel review. The board also approved the Greenwood Estates plan extension and all pending meeting minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 7:24 p.m.

• Approved Greenwood Estates extension of time and plan modifications (4-0-0)
• Authorized Wingspan Properties to post a $4,372,778 bond for Pine Tree Estates, subject to town counsel review (4-0-0)
• Approved June 24, 2025 Planning Board minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved August 5, 2025 Planning Board minutes as amended (3-1-0)
• Approved August 12, 2025 Planning Board minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:24 p.m. (4-0-0)

Health Department/Board of Health

The Board approved the June 17, 2025 meeting minutes. It unanimously adopted the proposed amendments to the septic regulations after a public hearing. The Board also approved the appointment of health agents Chris Wilson and Emily Wittaker‑Smith and added MHOA to conduct tobacco inspections in Holden.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (approved)
• Approved amended septic regulations (unanimously approved)
• Closed public hearing on septic regulations (unanimously approved)
• Approved appointment of health agents Chris Wilson and Emily Wittaker‑Smith (approved)
• Approved addition of MHOA to perform tobacco inspections (approved)

Town Clerk

The Dawson Recreational Complex Committee will meet at the Industrial Drive construction site. The body will review project updates and discuss a dedication ceremony.

• Review of project progress and updates
• Signing of open payment requisitions
• Discussion of the dedication ceremony

Planning Board

The board closed the Greenwood Estates hearing and approved a two‑year time extension for the project. It denied a request to reduce sidewalks and kept the original plan, and it approved the revised Highland Street/Union Street roadway plan pending DPW engineering approval. Public comment was closed, the June 24 minutes were postponed for later review, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:22 pm.

• Closed Greenwood Estates hearing (4-0-0)
• Approved two-year time extension for Greenwood Estates (3-1-0)
• Denied sidewalk reduction request, kept original plan (4-0-0)
• Approved revised Highland Street/Union Street roadway plan, subject to DPW engineering approval (4-0-0)
• Closed public comment period (4-0-0)
• Postponed approval of June 24, 2025 minutes to August 26, 2025
• Adjourned meeting at 8:22 pm (4-0-0)

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk will meet to review the treasurer's report and the spring business fundraiser. The body will also discuss revised H@H guidelines and a video promotion for HCTV.

• Revised H@H guidelines / HCOA update
• Video promotion for HCTV
• Spring business fundraiser update

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The board approved the minutes from July 8, 2025. The next regular meeting was scheduled for September 16, 2025 at 4 pm in the Starbard Building. Committee members were assigned follow‑up tasks: Colleen will draft a fundraising follow‑up email, Marty will prepare interview questions for an HCTV video, and the video recording is planned for October 20, 2025 at 7 pm at Chaffin Church.

• Approved July 8, 2025 minutes (as read)
• Scheduled next meeting for Sept 16, 2025, 4 pm, Starbard Building
• Assigned Colleen to draft fundraiser follow‑up email (pending Peter Lukes approval)
• Assigned Marty to write HCTV interview questions for next meeting
• Set HCTV video recording for Oct 20, 2025, 7 pm at Chaffin Church

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted 3‑0 to endorse the ANR plan for 601 Wachusett Street, creating two conforming house lots. No vote was taken on the Greenwood Estates roadway plan, and the Board will seek the Town Engineer’s attendance at the next meeting. Westminster Place updates and approval of the June 24 minutes were postponed. The meeting was suspended after a remote‑meeting hack and will be continued at a later date.

• Endorsed 601 Wachusett Street ANR plan (3-0)
• Postponed decision on Greenwood Estates roadway plan
• Postponed Westminster Place updates
• Postponed approval of June 24, 2025 minutes
• Meeting suspended due to remote‑meeting hack; continuation pending

Town Clerk

The meeting agenda listed items such as a lot split at 601 Wachusett Street, a time extension request for Greenwood Estates, updates on Westminster Place, and a review of the June 24 minutes. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes. The meeting was adjourned.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved a non‑commercial kennel license for Marvin Molina (105 Bailey Road) to keep up to four dogs. They also unanimously approved the 5K Dragon Dash parade permit, reappointed Constable Matthew Atamian, and accepted a donation of AED devices for Dawson Field. Minutes from June 20 and July 7 were adopted with recorded vote tallies.

• Approved non‑commercial kennel license for up to four dogs (unanimous)
• Approved 5K Dragon Dash parade permit for 10/26/25 (unanimous)
• Reappointed Constable Matthew Atamian (8/4/25‑8/4/28) (unanimous)
• Appointed election officers for 9/1/25‑8/31/26 (unanimous)
• Appointed members to Holden Historical Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Denise Lindberg to Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Accepted donation of 2 AEDs for Dawson Field (unanimous)
• Adopted June 20, 2025 minutes (3‑0‑2) and July 7, 2025 minutes (4‑0‑1)

Zoning / Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously (4‑0) to approve a variance for Graeme and Wendy Elliott at 94 Wachusett St. The approval is conditional on the Planning Board granting a Special Permit for the common driveway and an Approval Not Required (ANR) for lot‑line adjustments. The motion was made by A. Galonzka and seconded by B. Parry.

• Approved variance for 94 Wachusett St with condition of Planning Board Special Permit and ANR (4‑0)
• Motion to approve variance made by A. Galonzka, seconded by B. Parry

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from the April 22, 2025 meeting. The rest of the agenda covered reports on motor vehicle excise commitments, Fiscal Year 26 tax totals, staff training activities, and classified land applications, with no further actions taken.

• Approved minutes of April 22, 2025 meeting

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The committee reviewed the H@H policy draft and discussed various concerns but did not adopt any changes. They also examined the application form and cover letter. Susan (Susie) was assigned to send an updated PDF of the cover letter to Outreach Workers for feedback. No votes were recorded on any proposals.

• Susie to send updated PDF of application cover letter to Outreach Workers for feedback (assigned)

Holden Community Garden Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting. Members expressed a preference for hand watering rather than ground irrigation. Michael will collect surplus plot harvests for donation to the Holden Senior Center, and volunteers will assist the Lindbergs with tomato staking. Alison Grady installed signage for the “Nature Nook” project.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Preferred hand watering over ground irrigation (consensus of participants)
• Michael to collect surplus garden harvests for senior center, cooler to be placed near Water Tower 2
• Committee members to assist Lillian and Christopher Lindberg with tomato staking and trellising
• Alison Grady installed signage for “Nature Nook” project at Punny Path
• Wayne and Michael to coordinate weed pulling and apply natural weed‑killer in perennial paths

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission unanimously voted to continue the Vista Circle retaining wall repair notice of intent to the August 20, 2025 meeting. It also deferred the 125 Moscow Road development notice of intent to the same date. Negative determinations were issued for the 28 Lexington Circle and 945 Main Street requests, with conditions attached to the former. The enforcement order for 59 Fisher Road was closed.

• Continue Vista Circle retaining wall repair NOI (DEP #183-0721) to Aug 20, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continue 125 Moscow Road development NOI to Aug 20, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Issue negative 3 determination for 28 Lexington Circle RDA with erosion‑control conditions (5-0-0)
• Issue negative 3 determination for 945 Main Street RDA with no special conditions (5-0-0)
• Close enforcement order for 59 Fisher Road (5-0-0)

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The committee approved the June 10 minutes as read. A unanimous vote was taken to cancel the August 23 Holden Days event and consider a Christmas Tree event instead. The group scheduled a meeting on July 23 to discuss revisions to the H@H policy based on feedback. Additional plans include recording an HCTV interview for an October broadcast.

• Approved June 10 minutes as read (unanimous)
• Unanimously decided to skip Holden Days on Aug 23
• Scheduled July 23 meeting to discuss H@H policy revisions
• Planned HCTV interview recording for October airing

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen appointed Bryan Diehl to the ZPA voting seat, with the term ending 1/22/28. They also approved two parade permits, a public entertainment license, and a common victualer for Holden Days, all unanimously. The June 2, 2025 meeting minutes were accepted and the June 20 Zoom minutes were tabled. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Appointed Bryan Diehl as ZPA voting member (term expires 1/22/28) – unanimous
• Approved Parade Permit – Be Like Brit – 11/27/25 – unanimous
• Approved Parade Permit – Holden Days – 8/23/25 – unanimous
• Approved Public Entertainment License – Holden Days – 8/23/25 – unanimous
• Approved Common Victualer – Holden Days – 8/23/25 – unanimous
• Accepted June 2, 2025 meeting minutes as written – unanimous
• Tabled June 20, 2025 Zoom call minutes until August meeting – no vote
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

Planning Board

The Planning Board endorsed an Administrative Notice of Rezoning to adjust the lot lines for 1009 Wachusett Street, voting 3‑0‑0. It adopted new regulations governing fees, pre‑application meetings, site‑plan reviews and waivers, voting 4‑0‑0. The board approved the minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting with a 3‑1‑0 vote (one abstention). Member Anthony Veloso resigned, creating a vacancy on the board.

• Endorsed ANR to adjust lot lines at 1009 Wachusett St (3-0-0)
• Adopted fee, pre‑application, site‑plan review and waiver regulations (4-0-0)
• Approved June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3-1-0)
• Recorded resignation of Anthony Veloso (no vote)

Board of Selectmen

The Board voted to approve a $4.4 million obligation bond for the Holden Municipal Light Department, with a 2.99% interest rate and a ten‑year term. Fidelity Capital Markets was selected as the bond bidder. The motion passed unanimously.

• Approved $4.4 M bond for municipal light department (unanimous)
• Selected Fidelity Capital Markets as bond bidder (unanimous)

Holden Community Garden Committee

The Holden Community Garden Committee approved the minutes from the May 28 meeting, authorized finalizing and distributing the garden's 10‑year history, and gave the town permission to host a public pruning demonstration with a local arborist. They also approved Michael and Wayne's use of a natural spray for weed eradication in the perennial area. All motions were voted and approved.

• Approved May 28, 2025 meeting minutes (motion #1)
• Approved finalizing and distributing 10‑year history (motion #2)
• Approved town approval for arborist training event (motion #3)
• Approved natural spray weed‑eradication experiment (motion #4)
• Water spigots to be turned on this week (old business)
• Wayne to continue monitoring senior‑center plant relocation
• Gina to reach out to scout troop leaders for Punny Path rock repainting
• Jessica to connect Julie and Rebecca via email for weeding guidance

Planning Board

The board voted 3‑0‑0 to endorse the ANR that shifts and merges two lots on 263 Muschopague Road, creating easements for lawn, septic and drive access. It also approved moving the planning‑board fee‑regulation public hearing to the June 24, 2025 meeting (3‑0‑0). The May 13, 2025 meeting minutes were approved (3‑0‑0) and the meeting was adjourned at 7:31 pm (3‑0‑0).

• Approved ANR to adjust lot lines at 263 Muschopague Road (3-0-0)
• Approved continuation of planning board regulations public hearing on June 24, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Approved May 13, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0-0)
• Approved adjournment of meeting at 7:31 pm (3-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted 6-0-0 to issue the final Certificates of Completion for 32 Erins Way (DEP files 183-0450 and 183-0589). It also voted 6-0-0 to continue the Vista Circle retaining‑wall notice of intent to the July 9 meeting. Additional actions included approval of a planting plan for 59 Fisher Road and issuance of enforcement orders for unauthorized clearing at 259 Salisbury Street and 305 Bryant Road.

• Approved final COCs for 32 Erins Way (DEP 183-0450 & 183-0589) – vote 6-0-0
• Approved motion to continue Vista Circle retaining‑wall notice of intent to July 9 – vote 6-0-0
• Approved planting plan for 59 Fisher Road (native white spruce, invasive vine removal)
• Issued enforcement order to 259 Salisbury Street owner for unauthorized tree removal, requiring restoration plan
• Issued enforcement order to 305 Bryant Road owner for unauthorized clearing, requiring restoration plan

Board of Selectmen

The Board approved a parade permit for the Central MA Striders and unanimously appointed members to the Cultural Council, Historic District Commission, and ZBA. It also approved a special permit and a non‑commercial kennel license for 260 River Street after a public hearing. A motion to have the Town Manager prepare plain‑language summaries of warrant articles was rejected with a 2‑2‑1 vote.

• Approved Central MA Striders parade permit (unanimous)
• Appointed Cultural Council members Andrew Caruso, Melissa Cuthberston, Philip Johnson (unanimous)
• Appointed Historic District Commission member Christopher Collette (unanimous)
• Reappointed ZBA member Roy Fraser (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for 260 River Street kennel (unanimous)
• Approved non‑commercial Kennel license for 260 River Street (unanimous)
• Rejected policy to require Town Manager to prepare plain‑language warrant summaries (2 Yay, 2 Nay, 1 Abstention)

Holden Community Garden Committee

The committee approved the previous meeting minutes and awarded a raised bed to Wayne. It deferred a plant sale to the fall and agreed to consider the garden as a site for relocating Senior Center plants, pending DPW and Town Manager approval. Participants will receive a reminder not to leave weeds on paths or in compost bins, and volunteers will clean up signage and restart a watering sign‑up.

• Approved April 30, 2025 meeting minutes (Motion #1)
• Awarded a raised bed to Wayne for sharing with another participant
• Deferred plant‑sale consideration to the fall (raised beds left as is)
• Agreed to consider the garden for relocating Senior Center plants, pending DPW and Town Manager approval and Garden Club responsibility
• Decided to send a reminder to participants about weed removal and compost rules
• Joe and Katye removed the kiosk sign and will attempt to stain or paint it
• Katye will contact Christina Dale about educational signs
• Jessica, Gina, and Katye will restart a watering sign‑up for the garden

Zoning / Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a variance for Cassie and Jim Gevry to relieve side‑yard setback requirements at 32 Oregon Trail. The Board also elected J. Deignan as Chair and R. Fraser as Clerk, both unanimously. R. Spakauskas resigned from a full‑member seat to become an alternate, and B. Diehl moved up to a full‑member position with Spakauskas taking the 2nd alternate spot.

• Approved variance for 32 Oregon Trail side‑yard setback (5-0 unanimous)
• Elected J. Deignan as Chair of the Zoning Board (unanimous)
• Elected R. Fraser as Clerk of the Zoning Board (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of R. Spakauskas from full board to become alternate
• Appointed B. Diehl to full board member (replacing Spakauskas)
• Appointed R. Spakauskas as 2nd alternate member

Recreation Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the April 9, 2024 meeting. No other substantive actions or approvals were taken. A motion to adjourn was made and seconded, ending the meeting at 7:55 pm.

• Approved minutes of April 9, 2024
• Adjourned meeting at 7:55 pm

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted 4-1 to recommend that the Town Meeting approve the MBTA Communities Multi‑family Overlay District so the town can meet state housing requirements and qualify for grant funding. The Board also approved several covenant and trust documents, closed the public hearing on the overlay, and adjourned the meeting. Minutes from the April 22 meeting were approved, while the April 29 minutes could not be approved due to lack of quorum.

• Closed public hearing on MBTA overlay district – Approved 5-0-0
• Recommend Town Meeting approve MBTA overlay district – Approved 4-1-0
• Accept applicant’s covenant and endorse MYLARS for Pine Tree Estates – Approved 5-0-0
• Accept HOA trust and operation plan, release covenant for Sunshine Ridge lots 1‑7 – Approved 5-0-0
• Declare Oregon Trail hearing has no Zoning Board significance – Approved 4-0-1 (1 abstention)
• Approve April 22, 2025 minutes – Approved 4-0-1 (1 abstention)
• April 29, 2025 minutes not approved due to lack of quorum – No vote
• Adjourn meeting – Approved 4-0-0

Water Sewer Advisory Board

The Water & Sewer Advisory Board met on May 8, 2025 and received updates on water projects, well repairs, and meter upgrades. No substantive actions were voted on; the only formal action was to adjourn the meeting, which passed unanimously. The next meeting is scheduled for June 12, 2025 at 6 PM.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to deny or condition four development requests: a modular ADU at 49 Sunnyside Ave and three lots on Newell Road. Enforcement orders were also approved for tree‑cutting violations at 59 Fisher Road and adjacent Lot 234‑17. The commission approved prior meeting minutes and formally closed the May 7, 2025 session.

• Negative 3‑determination for RDA, 49 Sunnyside Ave with vegetation‑recovery conditions (5‑0‑0)
• Negative 3‑determination for RDA, Lot 3 Newell Road with driveway and buffer conditions (5‑0‑0)
• Negative 3‑determination for RDA, Lot 2 Newell Road with survey and buffer conditions (5‑0‑0)
• Negative 1‑determination for RDA, Lot 1 Newell Road (5‑0‑0)
• Enforcement order for 59 Fisher Road requiring impact evaluation, wetland delineation and restoration plan
• Enforcement order for Fisher Road Lot 234‑17 requiring tree removal, impact assessment and restoration plan
• Approved minutes of the October 2, 2024 Conservation Commission meeting (3‑0‑0)
• Approved minutes of the November 6, 2024 Conservation Commission meeting (3‑0‑0)

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The Help at Home committee approved the minutes from the March 25, 2025 meeting. They scheduled the next meeting for Tuesday, June 10 at 4:45 p.m. Amy Curran was assigned to draft about five new Facebook posts for review and posting. No other motions were adopted.

• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (as read)
• Scheduled next meeting for Tuesday, June 10 at 4:45 p.m.
• Tasked Amy Curran with preparing ~5 Facebook posts for review and posting

Holden Community Garden Committee

The Holden Community Garden Committee approved the March 26, 2025 meeting minutes and a revised statement for the town website committee page. It also approved the purchase and delivery of 10 yards of loam from Sterling Peat and Loam to improve soil depth in several plots. Participants agreed to rebuild the compost screen and to explore a two‑step compost system. A spring clean‑up is scheduled for May 18, 2025.

• Approved March 26, 2025 meeting minutes (Motion #1)
• Approved revised town webpage committee statement (Motion #2)
• Approved purchase and delivery of 10 yards of loam from Sterling Peat and Loam (Motion #3)
• Agreed Jessica will arrange loam delivery with DPW for the next work event
• Agreed to rebuild the compost screen; Wayne will handle reconstruction
• Agreed to explore a two‑step compost system and redesign the screen
• Scheduled spring clean‑up for May 18, 2025, 9 am‑12 pm
• Scheduled annual garden club plant sale for May 17, 2025

Planning Board

The board lacked a quorum, so the meeting was postponed to May 13, 2025 at 7 p.m. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:05 p.m. was made by Frank Doyle, seconded by Anthony Veloso, and approved unanimously (2‑0). No other agenda items were acted upon.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:05 p.m. (2-0)
• Postponed meeting to May 13, 2025 at 7 p.m. (no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The board closed the public hearing on the zoning recodification and instructed Town Planner David George to prepare a favorable recommendation for Draft #9 of the codified bylaws. It also closed the hearing on the rezoning request for 32 Mayo Drive and 52‑64 Boyden Road and adopted a recommendation for the town meeting to approve those parcels as BO‑P. All actions were approved unanimously (4‑0).

• Closed Zoning Recodification hearing (4-0)
• Instructed Town Planner David George to prepare a favorable recommendation for Draft #9 of the codified bylaws (4-0)
• Closed hearing on rezoning request for 32 Mayo Drive and 52-64 Boyden Road (4-0)
• Recommended town meeting approve rezoning of 32 Mayo Drive and 52-64 Boyden Road to BO-P (4-0)
• Adopted Planning Board’s favorable recommendation to town meeting for those parcels (4-0)
• Approved April 8, 2025 minutes as amended (4-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (4-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen approved several items, including a 0.0095 kWh distribution rate increase for the municipal light department effective May 1, 2025. They also adopted a new Health Department fee schedule, a new building‑permit fee structure, and a preservation restriction agreement for Town Hall. The Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan amendment and the annual parade permit were approved as well. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved 0.0095 kWh distribution rate increase (unanimous)
• Adopted new Health Department fee schedule (unanimous)
• Adopted new building‑permit fee structure ($10 per $1,000 construction value) (unanimous)
• Approved preservation restriction agreement for Town Hall at 1196 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (unanimous)
• Approved annual parade permit for Holden Baseball Program on 5/3/25 (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on HMLD fees and updates (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the April 7, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The board approved the minutes from the February 25, 2025 meeting. It reviewed abatement applications, granting none for personal property and denying the single real estate application.

• Approved minutes of February 25, 2025 meeting
• Denied 1 real estate abatement application
• No personal property abatements granted (0 applications reviewed)

Water Sewer Advisory Board

The Water & Sewer Advisory Board voted unanimously to make a favorable FY26 budget recommendation to the Town Manager. The board also approved the March 13, 2025 meeting minutes with changes. Finally, the board adjourned the meeting at 6:58 PM by unanimous vote.

• Approved FY26 budget recommendation to Town Manager (unanimous)
• Approved March 13, 2025 meeting minutes with changes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:58 PM (unanimous)

Health Department/Board of Health

The Board postponed approval of the March meeting minutes. It voted unanimously to fine each of three establishments $1,000 for selling tobacco to a minor and to suspend their tobacco sales for one day on May 7, 2025. The Board took no action on the Community Health Assessment presentation and noted a $5,000 FDA grant for a food‑standards self‑assessment. A review of the town’s septic regulations was proposed for the next meeting.

• Postponed approval of March meeting minutes (no vote recorded)
• Approved $1,000 fine and one‑day tobacco‑sales suspension for each of three violations (unanimous)
• No action taken on Community Health Assessment presentation
• Noted award of $5,000 FDA Flexible Funding Model grant (announcement)
• Proposed review and revision of septic regulations at next meeting

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved a $1,200,000 capital expense for exterior renovations of Town Hall, the Starbard Building, and a fire substation. It also approved a $13,000 transfer to the Veterans Budget, a $35,000 roof repair at Trout Brook, and a borrowing limit of up to $2,218,186 for town‑pool repairs. The WRSD budget of $40,090.813.00 was approved after an initial defeat, and several other budget items were adopted unanimously.

• Approved $13,000 transfer from Reserve Fund to Veterans Budget (unanimous)
• Approved $1,848,318 Solid Waste Enterprise Fund budget after contract renewal (unanimous)
• Approved $35,000 roof replacement at Trout Brook from Recreation Fund (unanimous)
• Approved borrowing limit up to $2,218,186 for town‑pool repairs (unanimous)
• Approved $40,090.813.00 WRSD Budget (6‑2)
• Approved $2,163,355 combined Montachusett Vocational and Norfork Vocational Budgets (unanimous)
• Approved $1,200,000 capital expense for exterior renovations of Town Hall, Starbard Building and substation (unanimous)
• Approved $65,000 for Eagle Lake (5‑3)

Planning Board

The board voted 4‑0‑0 to endorse the Administrative Notice of Reconfiguration (ANR) for 96 South Road, allowing the lot to be reconfigured as presented. The board also approved the March 25, 2025 meeting minutes by a 4‑0‑0 vote and adjourned the meeting at 7:23 pm with a 4‑0‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Endorsed ANR for 96 South Road lot reconfiguration (4-0-0)
• Approved March 25, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:23 pm (4-0-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board unanimously reappointed Michael Smith and Sarah Stebulis to the Historic District Commission. It also approved the opening of the 2025 ATM warrant and made several amendments to the town meeting warrant, including striking the word “voluntary” from article 25, moving articles 26 and 27, and removing article 40. Additionally, the Finance Committee’s final vote approved all major department budgets.

• Reappointed Michael Smith to Historic District Commission (unanimous)
• Reappointed Sarah Stebulis to Historic District Commission (unanimous)
• Approved opening of 2025 ATM warrant (unanimous)
• Struck word “voluntary” from article #25 (unanimous)
• Moved articles #26 and #27 to end of warrant (unanimous)
• Struck article #40 (unanimous)
• Set 2025 annual town meeting warrant articles as amended (unanimous)
• Closed 2025 annual town meeting warrant (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee unanimously approved multiple fund allocations and department budgets for FY 2026, including the $9,536,421 water & sewer enterprise fund and a $1,500,000 water & sewer capital borrowing. It also approved the Solid Waste Fund, police, fire‑EMS, and municipal debt budgets. The committee postponed a vote on the Recreation Fund capital borrowing pending revenue information. Discussions were held about regional school budget coordination and a potential WRSD override.

• Approved Water & Sewer Enterprise Fund $9,536,421 (unanimous)
• Approved Water & Sewer capital borrowing $1,500,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Solid Waste Fund $1,696,299 (unanimous)
• Approved Overlay Abatement expense $320,300 (unanimous)
• Approved Police Budget $2,957,125 (unanimous)
• Approved Fire and EMS Budget $3,082,541 (unanimous)
• Approved Municipal Debt excluded $4,244,101 (unanimous)
• Postponed Recreation Fund capital borrowing vote (no vote)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted 5-0-0 to close the public hearing for the septic system repair at 354 Malden Street. It also approved a standard order of conditions that mandates obtaining a DEP file number before any work can begin. Both actions were approved unanimously.

• Closed public hearing for 354 Malden Street septic repair (5-0-0)
• Issued standard order of conditions requiring file number before work (5-0-0)

Municipal Electric Power Advisory Board

The advisory board approved the February 27th minutes and voted to recommend a $0.0095 per kWh distribution rate increase for all customers starting May 1, 2025. It also approved support for two warrant articles to fund substation improvements and a land purchase, endorsed joining the ENE Transmission Cooperative with a $33,000 contribution, authorized up to $175,000 for GML’s hydroelectric project purchase, and supported discussions with the Princeton Municipal Light Department to become its sole electricity supplier.

• Approved February 27th minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended $0.0095/kWh distribution rate increase effective May 1, 2025 (all in favor)
• Supported two Annual Town Meeting warrant articles for substation and land acquisition (all in favor)
• Supported joining ENE Transmission Cooperative with $33,000 capital contribution (all in favor)
• Authorized up to $175,000 for GML hydroelectric project purchase (all in favor)
• Supported discussions with Princeton Municipal Light Department to become its sole supplier (all in favor)

Zoning / Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted 7‑0 to grant Deirdre and Alan Mitchell a variance for the property at 163 North St, allowing them to maintain the existing side‑yard setback on the condition that the current house be torn down. The board also agreed to postpone the election of its officers to the next meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Approved variance for 163 North St with condition existing home must be torn down (7-0)
• Postponed election of officers to next meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved the minutes of six prior meetings, each vote recorded as unanimous. Abstentions were noted for several motions. No other substantive actions or approvals were taken during the session.

• Approved minutes of March 3, 2025 (unanimous, abstentions: Al, Robert)
• Approved minutes of March 5, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 12, 2025 (corrected) (unanimous, abstentions: Paul, Marilynn, Robert)
• Approved minutes of March 19, 2025 (corrected) (unanimous, abstention: Marilynn)
• Approved minutes of March 20, 2025 (unanimous, abstention: Marilynn)
• Approved minutes of March 24, 2025 (unanimous, abstentions: Al, Donna, Jane, Marilynn, Robert, Alex)

Health Department/Board of Health

The Board approved the minutes from the February 25, 2025 meeting. It reported that the Title V inspection at 7 Miles Avenue failed and that the cesspool at that address will be abandoned and connected to the town sewer system. No other actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of February 25, 2025

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted to refer the rezoning petition for the former Holden District Hospital site (25.5 acres) to the Select Board so it can be placed on the annual Town Meeting warrant. The petition seeks to rezone the entire parcel to a business office professional zone. The Board also approved the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes and adjourned the session.

• Referred 25.5‑acre hospital site rezoning petition to Select Board for Town Meeting warrant (4-0-0)
• Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:31 p.m. (4-0-0)

Help at H.O.M.E. (Holden Outreach Managing Emergencies)

The committee approved the minutes from the February 25, 2025 meeting, with amendments. No other formal actions were approved; the group discussed revisions to a spring fundraiser letter, branding and website changes, and a possible HCTV spot, assigning tasks but not voting on them.

• Approved February 25, 2025 minutes (as amended)

Board of Selectmen

The Finance Committee decided not to pursue a property‑tax override for the 2025 budget. Instead, it approved drawing roughly $700,000 from the town’s savings to cover the school district’s funding shortfall. No formal vote tallies were recorded.

• Finance Committee decided not to seek a tax override this year
• Finance Committee approved taking about $700,000 from town savings to fund school costs

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen approved a $3,315,000 bond issuance, adopted a new trash‑fee increase schedule, and ratified an updated conservation fee schedule. They also authorized a warrant for refinancing the MMWEC pooled loan, approved up to $175,000 for a hydroelectric asset purchase, and voted to join ENE Transmission with a $33,000 capital contribution. All motions passed by unanimous roll‑call vote.

• Approved $3,315,000 bond sale (unanimous)
• Approved trash fee increase schedule (.50 now, .50 July, .50 Dec, no small tote raise, $1 overflow bag) (unanimous)
• Approved updated conservation fee schedule (unanimous)
• Approved MMWEC pooled loan refinancing warrant for ten‑year loan (unanimous)
• Approved HMLD capital contribution up to $175,000 for hydroelectric project purchase (unanimous)
• Approved HMLD membership in ENE Transmission with $33,000 contribution (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee recommended that Holden Beach not pursue a Proposition 2½ tax override for the 2025 budget. The Board of Selectmen expressed consensus that not seeking an override was the best course. No formal vote tally was recorded. A suggestion was made to consider a special town meeting in early February to discuss the issue further.

• Finance Committee recommended not seeking a Proposition 2½ override (no vote recorded)
• Board of Selectmen agreed not to seek a Proposition 2½ override (consensus, no vote tally)

Finance Committee

The committee voted unanimously not to recommend an override article for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. The motion was made by Al Berg and seconded by Paul Challenger. The committee also agreed to begin early planning for a possible override next year and will work with town staff in the fall.

• Motion to not recommend an override article this year – passed unanimously
• Committee agreed to start early override planning next year – consensus
• Town Manager staff to assist committee in fall to prepare for next year's override effort – agreed

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee met on March 19, 2025 at the Senior Center. The committee heard a presentation of the Wachusett Regional School District FY26 budget, which includes a 5.8% increase in member towns' assessments and a 7.6% increase in assessment due to state funding changes. No votes or actions were taken by the committee.