Hopedale public meetings in 2025

School Committee

The Blackstone Valley Vocational Regional School District Budget Subcommittee announced a series of public meetings to review preliminary FY2027 budget items. The agenda outlines reviews of staffing costs, administration and fixed charges, other school services, facility operations, fixed‑asset acquisition, instructional programs, and revenue projections, culminating in a consensus vote on the budget. No decisions are made at this posting; it sets the schedule for upcoming discussions.

• First review of Salary & Wage & Fringe Benefits and instructional/non‑instructional staffing (FTEs)
• First review of Administration (1000) and Fixed Charges (5000) functions
• First review of Other School Services (3000) and Facility/Plant Operations (4000)
• First review of Acquisition of Fixed Assets (7000) and district‑wide technology
• Review of revenue projections from State Aid and consensus vote on FY2027 budget

School Committee

The School Council will meet to review the latest MCAS performance report and competency determinations. The meeting also includes a discussion on an AI initiative and updates on student events.

• Review of MCAS performance report
• Discussion of AI initiative
• Review of November 4, 2025 minutes
• Student update on CDMASC Conference

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners will hold a joint meeting with the Select Board. The agenda includes an executive session to discuss litigation strategy.

• Executive session regarding litigation: Ruscitti v. Hazard, Ruscitti v. Town of Hopedale, and Hopedale Water Sewer Commissioners

Assessors

The Hopedale Board of Assessors will review a packet for classification hearing changes and sign the FY 25 Pro Forma warrant and notice of commitment. The board will also move into executive session to discuss confidential matters such as abatements, exemptions, and chapter‑land. After the executive session, the board will vote on adjournment.

• Review packet for classification hearing changes
• Sign warrant for FY 25 Pro Forma
• Sign notice of commitment for FY 25 Pro Forma
• Enter executive session to discuss confidential matters (abatements, exemptions, chapter‑land)
• Motion for adjournment

The Board of Assessors reviewed and signed the FY 2025 warrant for the Pro Forma and its notice of commitment. They agreed to hold the next Board of Assessors meeting on January 9, 2026. The meeting was adjourned at 12:44 pm.

• Reviewed and signed FY 2025 warrant for Pro Forma (approved)
• Set next Board of Assessors meeting for Jan 9, 2026 (scheduled)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:44 pm (adjourned)

CMMPO

The CMMPO is seeking public comment on proposed changes to the 2026-2030 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and new Critical Rural & Urban Freight Corridors. The meeting will discuss funding adjustments and scheduling changes for several regional highway and bridge projects.

• I-290 over East Central Street superstructure replacement: cost increase of $4,808,426 for a total of $35,738,187
• Mill Street bridge replacements in Southbridge: cost increase of $1,239,170 for a total of $11,232,073
• Homeward Avenue over Providence Railroad bridge replacement in Uxbridge: proposed $3,741,988 funding
• Pleasant Street pedestrian and bicycle improvements in Worcester: updated total cost of $4,158,179
• Oxford Street over Kettle Brook bridge replacement in Auburn: moved to FFY 2029 with total cost of $19,577,600

Administrator - Select Board

The Hopedale Select Board approved a bond anticipation note, accepted a $58,858.12 legal fund donation, and authorized a letter of support for GLP1, each unanimously (3-0). The board also approved license renewals for Cumberland Farms and Costa Brothers, and hired BSC Group as the town’s contract planner, all by a 3-0 vote. Several motions to enter executive session for litigation, real‑estate, and bargaining strategies were adopted, with two unanimous (3-0) and one by a 2-1 vote. The meeting was adjourned after these actions.

• Approved bond anticipation note (3-0)
• Accepted legal fund donation check of $58,858.12 (3-0)
• Authorized GLP1 support letter (3-0)
• Approved license renewals for Cumberland Farms and Costa Brothers (3-0)
• Approved hiring BSC Group as contract planner (3-0)
• Entered executive session on litigation strategy (3-0)
• Entered executive session on real‑estate negotiations (3-0)
• Entered executive session on bargaining strategy (2-1)

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee will review the FY26 budget status and approve several donations. Members will vote on revisions to the admissions policy and on the initial approval for a senior foreign trip to Italy in April 2027. A vote will also be taken on the FY27 freshman class size. Additional reports and updates will be presented but are not votes.

• FY26 Budget Status (report) – Business Manager N. Ferguson
• Donation approvals: Gift Cards (D. Fields, Sutton), UniBank, Blissful Meadows
• Admissions Policy Revisions (Policy JF-Admissions) – vote
• Foreign Trip – Italy April 2027 (Initial Approval) – vote
• FY27 Freshmen Class Size – vote

School Committee

The School Committee will hold a planning session with MASC regarding the superintendent search. The discussion will cover the search committee makeup and the project timeline.

• Planning session with MASC for superintendent search process
• Determination of search committee makeup
• Establishment of search timeline

Council on Aging Board

The Hopedale Council on Aging Board will approve the November 2025 meeting minutes and hear the director’s and outreach reports. The board will discuss updates on the director position search, the departing director’s final day and pending project assignments for January 2026, and will set the interim director’s pay rate and schedule for 2026. Additional items include reviewing revolving account balances, turnovers from Hopedale Friends of Elders, and planning the January 2026 activity calendar and board meeting date.

• Approve November 2025 meeting minutes
• Director position search update
• Set interim director’s pay rate and schedule for 2026
• Review revolving account balances
• Plan January 2026 activity calendar and board meeting date

The board voted unanimously to hire Carole Mullen as a contract worker for ten hours a week at $42 per hour for January and February. The board also voted unanimously to name Cheryl Moreci and Bob Casali as the members authorized to sign payroll. The vote on the November meeting minutes was postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved hiring Carole Mullen as contract worker (10 hrs/week, $42/hr Jan–Feb) – unanimous
• Approved appointment of Cheryl Moreci and Bob Casali as payroll signers – unanimous
• Postponed vote on November meeting minutes to next meeting

CMMPO

The committee will approve the October 15, 2025 meeting minutes and invite public comment. It will consider releasing Proposed Amendment #2 to the FY 2026‑2030 Transportation Improvement Program highway project listing, and a set of new rural and urban freight corridors, each for a 21‑day public review period. Presentations will include updates on the Safe Streets for All program, the Vernon Connected Transportation Study, and a housing‑and‑transportation study.

• Approval of October 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Potential action: release Proposed Amendment #2 to the FFY 2026‑2030 TIP Highway Project Listing for a 21‑day public review
• Potential action: release proposed new rural and urban freight corridors for a 21‑day public review
• Safe Streets for All (SS4A) update presentation
• Vernon Connected Transportation Study update presentation

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Hopedale Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application by Andy Clark of Expose Signs & Graphics, Inc. to expand standing signage at 1 Airport Drive Extension. The board will also hear public comments on the same site, discuss upcoming 40B housing provisions and ZBA fee structures with counsel, and review a draft Noise Ordinance. Minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting will be accepted before adjourning.

• Public hearing on Andy Clark's request to add two standing signs at 1 Airport Drive Extension
• Public comments regarding 1 Airport Drive Extension
• Discussion with In-House Counsel Gerry Moody on upcoming 40B and ZBA fees
• Review of proposed draft Noise Ordinance
• Acceptance of meeting minutes for November 19, 2025

The board voted to continue the sign‑relief hearing for Andy Clark to Jan. 21, 2026. It approved the recommended changes to the fee schedule, setting both the application fee and per‑unit fee at $150. The board also accepted the Comprehensive Permit Regulations presented by counsel. All motions passed unanimously.

• Continued sign‑relief hearing to Jan 21, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved ZBA fee schedule change: application fee $150 (unanimous)
• Approved ZBA fee schedule change: per‑unit fee $150 (unanimous)
• Accepted Comprehensive Permit Regulations (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of Nov 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:35 PM (unanimous)

Assessors

The Hopedale Board of Assessors will review a packet of classification hearing changes and make a recommendation. The board will also consider a motion to enter Executive Session under Purpose 7 to discuss confidential matters such as abatements, exemptions, and Chapter‑land. Votes will be taken on the Executive Session motion and on adjournment.

• Review and recommendation on classification hearing changes (packet)
• Motion to enter Executive Session for confidential matters (abatements, exemptions, Chapter‑land)
• Approval of meeting minutes
• Chair to call meeting to order and roll call
• Motion for adjournment

Housing Authority

The Hopedale Housing Authority Board will approve the November 13 meeting minutes. It will also approve bills submitted between November 13 and December 8, 2025. A fee accountant will present the balance statement ending October 31, 2025, and the Executive Director will give a report on correspondence and vacancy/wait‑list status.

• Approval of minutes – November 13, 2025 Regular Meeting
• Approval of bills – from November 13, 2025 to December 8, 2025
• Fee Accountant Report – Balance Statement ending October 31, 2025
• Executive Director’s Report – correspondence and vacancy/wait‑list review
• Next meeting scheduled for January 8, 2026

Road Commissioners

The Hopedale Road Commissioners will meet to approve minutes, discuss budget and maintenance updates, and vote on increasing hourly pay rates for plowing contractors. The board will also consider a playground renovation road cut permit and address a letter regarding a Golf Club fence on Mill Street.

• Approval of November 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Vote to increase hourly rate for plowing contractors
• Playground renovation road cut permit
• Golf Club fence on Mill Street
• 2026 Road Commissioners meeting schedule

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Hopedale Water & Sewer Commission will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss a revised management authority, rate studies, and well repairs. The agenda also includes updates on PFAS and copper removal projects, as well as an executive session regarding legal strategy.

• Revised Water & Sewer Management Authority discussion
• Rate study update
• Well repairs
• Cross charges / water bill new town hall
• Executive session on legal strategy

The Commissioners unanimously approved the November 12, 2025 meeting minutes. They also unanimously approved sending a letter to the Town Administrator and the Selectboard regarding the reporting authority of the Water & Sewer Management Authority. The board decided the next meeting will be held in the evening to allow a public hearing on the upcoming rate study. No other motions were voted on.

• Approved November 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved sending letter to Town Administrator and Selectboard (unanimous)
• Decided to hold next meeting in the evening for a public hearing (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:37 A.M. (unanimous)

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board approved the Host Community Agreement with Fresh Ones, LLC and accepted a donation of equipment from the Hopedale Village Cemetery. All three town licenses (common victualer, liquor, Class II auto) were renewed. The board entered executive session, voted to support the police department’s staffing search, and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved Host Community Agreement with Fresh Ones, LLC (3-0)
• Accepted equipment donation from Hopedale Village Cemetery (3-0)
• Renewed common victualer, liquor, and Class II auto licenses (each 3-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel matters (3-0)
• Supported HPD staffing search to reduce overtime expenses (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:16 pm (3-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review year-to-date expenditures for fiscal year 2026. The body will also begin preparations for the fiscal year 2027 budget.

• FY2026 Expenditures YTD
• Prep for FY2027 budget

Community Preservation Committee

The Hopedale Community Preservation Committee will meet on December 3, 2025 via Zoom. The committee will discuss and decide on approving the $875 payment for the Massachusetts Community Preservation Committee membership fee. No other agenda items are listed.

• Approve payment of $875 MassCPC membership fee

Planning Board

The Hopedale Planning Board will review a definitive subdivision plan for the Spooner Woods Estates area, covering lots 1 through 9. The plan proposes a 12‑foot wide gravel driveway with no sidewalks, private wells for water service, and no fire hydrants. It includes storm‑drainage provisions such as catch basins at 300‑foot intervals and 8" PVC pipe culverts. The subdivision is subject to covenant conditions set forth in deeds revised on January 12, 1988.

• Definitive subdivision plan of land for Spooner Woods Estates (lots 1‑9)
• Proposed 12‑foot wide gravel driveway with no sidewalk
• No fire hydrants or water mains; individual private wells to serve lots
• Storm‑drainage plan: catch basins every 300 feet and 8" PVC pipe culverts
• Covenant conditions required by deed revisions dated Jan 12 1988

Planning Board

The Planning Board is reviewing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) application for 267 South Main Street. The Water & Sewer Department has notified the board that the current site plan lacks the required separate water service connection.

• ADU application for 267 South Main Street
• Requirement for separate water service connections from the water main
• Note that the property uses a septic system rather than municipal sewer

The board approved the ANR subdivision plan for 160 Mill Street on Kings Way, creating three lots on the 9.58‑acre parcel. It also approved the ANR boundary‑adjustment plan for 12 Mill Street, moving the line between houses 6 and 12. The board approved the construction of a 692‑square‑foot accessory dwelling unit over the garage at 267 South Main Street, with conditions set by the water and sewer department. The board postponed further discussion of the Performance Bond for 75 Plain Street to the January 7, 2026 meeting.

• Approved ANR subdivision for 160 Mill Street (Kings Way) – all in favor
• Approved ANR boundary adjustment for 12 Mill Street – all in favor
• Approved construction of 692 sq ft ADU over garage at 267 South Main Street – all in favor
• Approved minutes from November 5 2025 meeting – all in favor
• Postponed Performance Bond discussion for 75 Plain Street to Jan 7 2026 – all in favor
• Adjourned meeting at 7:36 pm – all in favor

Board of Health

The Hopedale Board of Health will hold a budget workshop on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. The agenda lists a call to order, a discussion of the FY2027 budget, and adjournment. The meeting is open to the public and follows the Open Meeting Law.

• FY2027 budget discussion

The Hopedale Board of Health met on December 2, 2025 to discuss the FY2027 budget, but no votes were taken on the budget. A motion to adjourn was moved by Jason MacDonald, seconded by Mary Watson, and all members voted in favor. The meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m.

• Adjournment motion approved (unanimous)

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Hopedale Library Board of Trustees will consider the approval of the November 4, 2025 meeting minutes. Trustees will hear the Director’s Report, which includes building updates, a draft FY27 budget, and information about the Holiday Stroll. The agenda includes a review of the library’s budget and an update from the Friends of the Hopedale Library. The meeting also provides time for new business and public comments.

• Approve November 4, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director’s Report covering building updates, FY27 budget draft, and Holiday Stroll
• Review of the library’s FY27 budget
• Friends of the Hopedale Library update (Chris Seaver)
• New Business (unspecified topics)

The trustees voted unanimously to accept the November 4, 2025 meeting minutes. No other formal motions were passed. Trustees were asked to complete a staff evaluation and explore a weather‑closure policy before the next meeting. The meeting was then adjourned at 5:05 p.m.

• Accepted November 4, 2025 minutes (all voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:05 p.m. (all voted in favor)

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee will approve the November 4, 2025 meeting minutes and consider several financial votes, including budget transfers and a $2,000 grant from Analog Devices for the DECA program. The committee will also review policy readings, provide updates on the FY27 budget process and the superintendent search, and receive reports on facilities, school calendar, and special education. Audience comments are invited throughout the meeting.

• Approve School Committee meeting minutes from November 4, 2025
• Vote on budget transfers
• Vote on $2,000 grant from Analog Devices for DECA
• Second reading of IHAIA Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy
• Update on FY27 budget process

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee is meeting via Zoom to conduct business. The primary item for discussion and approval is the payment of a membership fee.

• Payment of MassCPC membership fee of $875

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a resource area delineation request and review a notice of intent for residential construction. The body will also receive updates on three separate site visits.

• Public hearing for Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation (ANRAD) at 300 South Main Street
• Notice of Intent for single-family homes and septic systems at 4 Overdale Parkway, lots 1 and 2
• Site visit update for 50 Plain Street
• Site visit update for 134 Mill Street
• Site visit update for 86 Plain Street

The Conservation Commission voted to continue the hearing on the 300 South Main Street ANRAD request to the December 16, 2025 meeting. It also moved the hearings for the 4 Overdale Parkway Lot One and Lot Two Notices of Intent to the same December date. The board approved the minutes from the July 8, 2025 meeting and then adjourned.

• Continued 300 South Main Street ANRAD hearing to Dec 16, 2025 (motion passed)
• Continued 4 Overdale Parkway Lot One NOI hearing to Dec 16, 2025 (motion passed)
• Continued 4 Overdale Parkway Lot Two NOI hearing to Dec 16, 2025 (motion passed)
• Approved minutes of July 8, 2025 (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:21 PM (motion passed)

Water & Sewer Department

The Water and Sewer Commissioners, in joint session with the Select Board, will discuss the extension of remote meeting provisions authorized by Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023. The extension continues the remote meeting allowances of the March 12, 2020 Executive Order until March 31, 2025. The discussion covers both public access through alternative means and public participation remotely.

• Extension of remote meeting provisions (Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023) until March 31, 2025

The Board discussed the waived $200,000 GFI payment and the water‑sewer organization structure, but counsel advised the items not be addressed in open session. The topics were not discussed and no actions or votes were recorded.

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will consider a Host Community Agreement between the Town of Hopedale and Fresh Ones A.C.E., LLC for a Marijuana Delivery Operator license. The agreement sets out compliance requirements, a Community Impact Fee of up to 3% of gross sales, and other fees, taxes, and security obligations. If the company does not obtain a final state license and begin operations within twelve months, the agreement will automatically expire.

• Approval of Host Community Agreement for a Marijuana Delivery Operator at 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11(K)
• Community Impact Fee provision limited to 3% of the company’s gross sales
• Requirement for the company to pay generally occurring municipal fees and applicable taxes
• Security cooperation obligations with the Hopedale Police Department
• 12‑month expiration clause if a final license is not obtained

The board voted 3‑0 to accept the Board of Assessors’ recommendation of a 1.5% tax rate, raising average residential taxes by $199 and commercial taxes by $400. It approved two donation checks—$8,000 from Hopedale Friends of Elders and $5,750 for the Legal Fund—unanimously. The board took no action on two National Grid pole requests, rescinded a motion to approve a cannabis delivery agreement, and entered executive session unanimously.

• Accepted assessors' 1.5% tax rate recommendation (3-0)
• Approved $8,000 donation from Hopedale Friends of Elders (unanimous)
• Approved $5,750 Legal Fund donation (unanimous)
• No action taken on National Grid pole relocation on Plain St
• No action taken on National Grid pole installation on Warfield St
• Rescinded motion to approve Fresh Ones, LLC cannabis delivery agreement
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel matters (unanimous)
• Terminated firefighter JC DaSilva (action recorded)

Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review departmental bills and a classification hearing packet to make a recommendation. The board will also enter executive session to discuss confidential matters including abatements, exemptions, and chapter-land applications.

• Review of classification hearing packet for recommendation
• Review of departmental bills
• Discussion and vote on abatements and exemptions
• Review of Chapter land applications

The Board approved the open‑meeting minutes and the executive‑session minutes from the November 7, 2025 meeting unanimously. They agreed to hold the next Board of Assessors meeting on January 9, 2026 at noon. The Board then entered executive session under Purpose 7, also unanimously.

• Approved open‑meeting minutes from Nov 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved executive‑session minutes from Nov 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Scheduled next Board of Assessors meeting for Jan 9, 2026 at noon
• Entered executive session under Purpose 7 (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Hopedale Board of Health will discuss the FY2027 budget proposal and review waste‑related actions. It will also receive updates on trash and recycling expenses, animal‑control programs, and other reports. Action items include dumpster regulations and orders for 201 Hopedale Street.

• FY2027 Budget Proposal
• Dumpster Regulations
• 201 Hopedale Street Orders
• FY2026 Trash & Recycling Expenses To Date
• Blackstone Valley Animal Control Program Updates

The Board of Health approved the proposed dumpster regulations with fees and a Jan 1 2026 start date. It also ordered the owner of 201 Hopedale Street to remove vehicles within 90 days. The FY2027 budget proposal will be discussed at a workshop on Dec 2 2025. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved September 18, 2025 meeting minutes (all voted in favor)
• Approved dumpster regulations to take effect Jan 1 2026, with specified permit fees (all voted in favor)
• Ordered removal of vehicles from 201 Hopedale Street within 90 days (all voted in favor)
• Scheduled FY2027 budget workshop for Dec 2 2025 (consensus decision)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:10 p.m. (all voted in favor)

Council on Aging Board

The Hopedale Council on Aging Board meeting on November 20, 2025 will review several agenda items. It will discuss updates on the director position search, a proposed increase to the tax credit program abatement, and a change to the transportation fee policy. The board will also consider the December 2025 activity calendar and set the date for the next board meeting. All items may be subject to a vote.

• Director Position Search Update
• Tax Credit Program Abatement Increase
• Transportation Fee Policy Change
• December 2025 Activity Calendar
• December 2025 COA Board Meeting Date

The board unanimously approved a $25 fee for longer trips and a $10 fee for shorter trips. Nancy was approved to work from home one day per week in December. The October meeting minutes were accepted. The next board meeting was set for December 18.

• Approved $25 fee for longer trips and $10 fee for shorter trips (unanimous)
• Approved Nancy to work from home one day per week in December
• Accepted October meeting minutes
• Scheduled next meeting for December 18

Road Commissioners

The Road Commissioners will approve the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting. They will receive updates on the town's budget to date and on roadway maintenance. The board will also consider the pay rate for plowing contractors carried over from previous business.

• Approve minutes of October 8, 2025 meeting
• Review budget to date
• Review roadway/maintenance updates
• Consider pay rate for plowing contractors (old business)

The board approved the October 8, 2025 meeting minutes and accepted the budget report, both unanimously. They decided to table the vote on raising the plow contractors' hourly rate until the December meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted budget report (unanimous)
• Tabled vote on increasing plow contractor hourly rate to December meeting

Historical Commission

The Hopedale Historical Commission will review updates on several projects, including the pending $97,000 request for Little Red Shop Museum foundation repairs pending voter approval. Other agenda items include a status report on the Wayside Panel Project, a review of volunteer hours valued at $54,736.50, and a request to cancel the December 2025 meeting. The commission will also note that the SHRAB Fellowship Grant was not awarded.

• LRSM foundation repair funding request of $97,000 awaiting voter approval
• Wayside Panel Project update – potential new design and cost approach
• Volunteer hours logged for Blackstone Heritage Corridor (1,303.25 hrs, $54,736.50 value)
• SHRAB Fellowship Grant submitted on Oct 10, 2025 – not awarded
• Treasurer’s Report: Comcast fees $100.85 each for two periods, pest contract $92.25, cash donation $425

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a special permit application. The board will determine if a standing sign may be installed at a specific location.

• Case #06-2025: Special permit request by Power Brothers, LLC for a standing sign at 277 Mendon Street

The board approved a variance allowing a 10' × 16' shed at 5 Gaskill Circle with a 3‑4 foot setback relief. It denied the application for a 3' × 4' standing sign at 227 Mendon Street and continued the hearing for a sign at 1 Airport Drive Extension to Dec 17 2025. The board also approved the revised ZBA fee schedule and moved discussion of the draft noise ordinance to the Dec 17 2025 meeting.

• Approved variance for 5 Gaskill Circle shed (all in favor)
• Denied 3'x4' standing sign at 227 Mendon St (all in favor)
• Continued hearing for sign at 1 Airport Drive Extension to Dec 17, 2025 (all in favor)
• Approved ZBA fee schedule (all in favor)
• Moved draft noise ordinance discussion to Dec 17, 2025 (all in favor)
• Accepted minutes of Oct 15, 2025 (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:38 PM (all in favor)

Town Clerk

The Town approved a $600,000 acquisition of condominium units at 54 Hopedale Street and authorized borrowing the same amount. Annual spending limits for FY2026 revolving funds and several water‑department transfers were approved unanimously. Requests for planning services, assessor mapping upgrades, and FY2026 budget supplements were passed over. A petition to increase the Select Board from three to five members was rejected after a failed voice vote and a denied ballot request.

• Approved $600,000 condo purchase and $600,000 borrowing (2‑1 vote)
• Approved annual FY2026 revolving fund limits (unanimous)
• Approved $22,000 water department vehicle maintenance transfer (unanimous)
• Approved $97,000 Little Red Shop Museum repair transfer (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 transfer to OPEB trust fund (unanimous)
• Passed over planning services request for 150‑154 Mendon Street (unanimous)
• Passed over assessor mapping upgrades request (unanimous)
• Rejected petition to expand Select Board to five members (voice vote failed, ballot denied)

Finance Committee

The Hopedale Finance Committee will meet on November 18, 2025 at the Hopedale Community House. The committee will continue reviewing the STM warrant, with a possible vote, and discuss the 2025 Special Town Meeting. It will also review year-to-date expenditures for fiscal year 2026. Additional time is set aside for any unexpected topics the chair may raise.

• Continued review of the STM warrant (potential vote)
• Discussion of the 2025 Special Town Meeting
• Review of FY2026 expenditures year-to-date

Housing Authority

The Hopedale Housing Authority Board will examine the FY 2026 budget, the balance statement, quarterly report, and modernization report ending September 30, 2025, and sign the end‑of‑year reports. The meeting will also approve the minutes from the October 9, 2025 meeting and approve bills dated October 9 to November 10, 2025. An Executive Director’s report will cover correspondence and the vacancy/wait‑list status.

• Review FY 2026 budget and financial statements (balance, quarterly, modernization) ending 9/30/2025
• Approve minutes from October 9, 2025 regular meeting
• Approve bills from October 9, 2025 to November 10, 2025
• Executive Director’s report on correspondence and vacancy/wait‑list
• Schedule next meeting for December 11, 2025

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Water & Sewer Commission will approve the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting. Commissioners will discuss the sanitary survey results and water usage data. Updates on the PFAS project and the copper removal pilot study will be presented. The meeting includes a managers’ report and a period for public and board member comments.

• Approve minutes of October 20, 2025
• Review sanitary survey results
• Discuss water usage
• PFAS project update
• Copper removal pilot study update

The commissioners approved the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting after two edits, with a unanimous vote. They also voted unanimously to adjourn the November 12, 2025 meeting at 6:22 PM. No other motions were adopted.

• Approved October 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:22 PM (unanimous)

Hopedale Cultural Council

The Hopedale Cultural Council will meet to approve grant applications and review old and new business. The meeting will be held at the Bancroft Library.

• Approval of October 22, 2025 minutes
• Review of grant applications and approvals
• Treasurer's report
• Old Business review
• New Business discussion

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board is preparing for a Special Town Meeting to discuss moving excess levy capacity to stabilization and a citizen's petition to expand the board from 3 to 5 members. The board also managed the transition to new Town Hall offices at 54 Hopedale Street.

• Special Town Meeting scheduled for November 18 at 7pm at The Community House
• Accepted Legal Fund donations totaling $109,360.48
• Awarded Town Park project bid to Mountain View Landscape
• Opened new Town Hall offices at 54 Hopedale Street on October 27
• Held public hearings for Comcast and Verizon license renewals

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the October 14 and 27 meetings. It approved a one‑day liquor license for The Black Harp, LLC for the Holiday Stroll and accepted a legal fund donation of $34,241.75. The board also appointed three career firefighters—Anna Micelotte, Kyle Cedrone and John Thomas—effective Dec. 1, 2025, and moved to enter an executive session.

• Approved minutes from 10/14/2025 and 10/27/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for The Black Harp, LLC (unanimous)
• Accepted legal fund donation of $34,241.75 (unanimous)
• Appointed Anna Micelotte as career firefighter (unanimous)
• Appointed Kyle Cedrone as career firefighter (unanimous)
• Appointed John Thomas as career firefighter (unanimous)
• Entered executive session pursuant to MGL c.30A s.21 (unanimous)

Assessors

The Hopedale Board of Assessors will review departmental bills paid since the last meeting and sign the 2025-05 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment, Warrant, and monthly abatements list for September and October 2025. The board will receive an assessor update on the RRC proposal and a Department of Revenue report on a classification hearing. A motion will be taken to enter Executive Session to discuss confidential abatements and exemptions. Routine items include approval of September 12, 2025 meeting minutes and discussion of future meeting dates.

• Review departmental bills paid since last meeting (no vote)
• Sign 2025-05 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant (no vote)
• Sign monthly list of motor vehicle excise abatements for September and October 2025 (no vote)
• Discuss next proposed Board of Assessors meeting dates, including Special Town Meeting and Classification Hearing (no vote)
• Motion to enter Executive Session to discuss confidential abatements and exemptions (vote taken)

The Board unanimously approved the September 12, 2025 regular and executive session minutes. It tabled a request to increase pay for senior work‑off workers to the December agenda. The Board agreed to continue with RRC for FY 2027 personal property data work and set the next BOA meeting for November 24, 2025 at 6 pm. A motion to enter Executive Session under Purpose 7 passed unanimously.

• Approved September 12, 2025 regular minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 12, 2025 executive session minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled senior work‑off workers pay increase request to December agenda
• Agreed to continue RRC data work for FY 2027 personal property provisions
• Set BOA meeting for Nov 24, 2025 at 6 pm
• Entered Executive Session under Purpose 7 (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss the 2025 STM warrant. It will receive updates on ongoing projects for FY2026. The committee will also discuss the process for preparing the FY2027 budget. No other items are listed.

• STM 2025 warrant discussion
• FY2026 ongoing project updates
• Discussion of FY2027 budget preparation process

Planning Board

The Hopedale Planning Board meeting on November 5, 2025 will review several land use applications. Items include two administrative notices of rezoning (ANR) for properties on Hill and Mendon Streets and Overdale Parkway, a possible site plan modification for 50 Plain Street, a special permit request in the Marijuana Overlay District for 2 Evergreen Lane Unit 11, a revision to an approved plan for 229 South Main Street and Plain Street, and a performance bond for 75 Plain Street. The board will also approve the minutes from the October 1, 2025 meeting and address any other topics raised by the chair.

• ANR – Land off of Hill and Mendon Streets
• ANR – 4 Overdale Parkway
• Possible Site Plan Modification – 50 Plain Street
• Application for Special Permit in Marijuana Overlay District – 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11
• Performance Bond for 75 Plain Street

The Planning Board endorsed the ANR project for Hill and Mendon Streets and for 4 Overdale Parkway, each with unanimous support. It approved the withdrawal of a special permit application for 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11. The board also approved revised ANR plans for 229 South Main Street and Plain Street, with one member abstaining and the rest in favor.

• Endorsed ANR plan for Hill and Mendon Streets (all in favor)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 4 Overdale Parkway (all in favor)
• Approved withdrawal of special permit application for 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11 (all in favor)
• Approved revised ANR plans for 229 South Main Street and Plain Street (one abstention, others in favor)
• Approved minutes of October 1, 2025 meeting (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:40 pm (all in favor)

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The trustees accepted the October 7, 2025 meeting minutes and unanimously approved the FY27 Action plan. They authorized the purchase of a new library PC for $900 and ordered a compliant front‑door grab handle. Carpet cleaning was completed by Lovejoy Carpet, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted October 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY27 Action plan (unanimous)
• Purchased new PC for $900
• Ordered front‑door grab handle (compliant with historic register)
• Completed carpet cleaning by Lovejoy Carpet
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee will meet virtually at 12:15 p.m. for an executive session. The session is a strategy meeting to prepare for upcoming negotiations with non‑union personnel. No decisions or votes are scheduled.

• Executive strategy session for negotiations with non‑union personnel

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will review updates to the town park renovation schedule, discuss Lot A and related work at Draper, and consider a vote on heating for the park bathhouse. Additional items include correspondence about a geocache placement at Draper and employment options for a staff member. The meeting also includes a review of bills and invoices and a public comment period.

• Bathhouse heating vote
• Town park renovation schedule updates
• Lot A discussion and work updates at Draper
• Correspondence regarding placement of a geocache at Draper
• Employment options for Colton, including potential highway salary assistance

The Park Commission approved the September 18, 2025 minutes by unanimous consent. The town voted unanimously to sell 30 acres in front of the Water Sewer Commission for a housing complex and a multipurpose field with a track. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved September 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Voted unanimously to sell 30 acres for housing complex and multipurpose field
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining, litigation, and negotiations with non-union personnel. These items will be addressed in executive session.

• Executive session regarding collective bargaining or litigation strategy
• Executive session regarding negotiations with non-union personnel

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on October 27, 2025, to determine whether to issue cable television licenses to Verizon and Comcast. The board also approved a warrant for a Special Town Meeting on November 18, 2025.

• Public hearing on Verizon and Comcast cable television licenses
• Special Town Meeting scheduled for November 18 at 7pm
• Citizen petition to increase Select Board size from 3 to 5 members
• Acceptance of Legal Fund donations totaling $109,360.48
• Town Hall relocation to 54 Hopedale Street

Administrator - Select Board

The Board will discuss how to handle the $200,000 that was waived from the Plain St warehouse project but was earmarked for the Freedom Street Water Storage tank. Options include appropriating the amount via a levy, borrowing against the enterprise fund, or assessing a quarterly user fee of about $3‑4 per quarter. The timing of any action—whether to place it on the Fall Town Meeting warrant or wait for Spring 2026—will also be considered.

• $200,000 commitment waived for the Freedom Street Water Tank project
• Need to transfer the $200,000 to the Water Department to offset tank debt service
• Proposed funding options: levy appropriation, enterprise‑fund borrowing, or $3‑4 quarterly user fee
• If placed on the Fall Town Meeting warrant, it cannot be a borrowing article
• If not approved in Fall, the item may be deferred to the Spring 2026 Town Meeting

The Select Board unanimously closed the public hearing on Comcast and Verizon license renewals. It tabled the consent item to approve the October 14 minutes pending further review. The board unanimously appointed Kyle C. e. Drone to the Hopedale Call Fire. Finally, the board voted unanimously to move into Executive Session to consider real‑property transactions.

• Closed Comcast and Verizon license renewal hearing (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of 10/14 minutes (Chair tabled)
• Appointed Kyle C. e. Drone to Hopedale Call Fire (unanimous)
• Entered Executive Session to consider real‑property matters (unanimous)

Council on Aging Board

The Hopedale Council on Aging board will discuss funding matters involving Sally Decelles and Tara Taglianetti‑Chambers. The board will receive updates on the director position search and recent conversations with outreach worker Nancy Mosher and administrative assistant Jen Bethel. New business includes reviewing the November 2025 activity calendar and setting the date for the next board meeting. All listed agenda items may be subject to a vote.

• FOE/COA funding discussion with Sally Decelles and Tara Taglianetti‑Chambers
• Director position search update
• Conversation with outreach worker Nancy Mosher
• Conversation with administrative assistant Jen Bethel
• Review of November 2025 activity calendar

The board accepted the September meeting minutes after correcting the dates for flu clinics. Friends of Elders officers Tara Taglianetti‑Chambers and Sally Decelles announced their resignations. After discussion, the council voted unanimously to move the Friends treasury balance of $17,184 into the council’s gift account. The next meeting is scheduled for November 20.

• Accepted September minutes with date correction (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $17,184 from Friends of Elders treasury to council gift account (unanimous)

Hopedale Cultural Council

The Hopedina Cultural Council will approve the September 15, 2025 minutes, hear the treasurer's report, review the DIP survey, and discuss a de‑brief of the upcoming Town of Hopedale Zoom meeting on the DIP program.

• Approval of September 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Treasurer’s report
• Review of the DIP survey (old business)
• De‑brief of the upcoming DIP Zoom meeting (new business)

The council accepted the September 15, 2025 minutes and the treasurer's report. A unanimous motion transferred $1,439 from the Friends of HCC account to the HCC Grant funding account, raising the grant balance to $6,800. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted September 15, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Accepted Treasurer's report (motion passed)
• Approved $1,439 transfer to HCC Grant funding account (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Hopedale Water & Sewer Commission will meet to approve minutes, discuss a copper removal pilot study, and review financial commitments and debt services for the current year and FY27.

• Approve minutes from August 14, 2025, and September 11, 2025
• Update on copper removal pilot study
• Review of financial commitments and debt services
• FY27 budget planning
• Hydrant painting volunteer (Tom Sager)

The Water & Sewer Commissioners unanimously approved the minutes of the August 14, 2025 meeting. They also unanimously approved the minutes of the September 11, 2025 meeting. The board then adjourned the session at 11:04 A.M. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of August 14, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 11, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:04 A.M. (unanimous)

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee meeting on Oct. 17, 2025 is dedicated to a professional development retreat for staff. No other agenda items or decisions are listed.

• Professional Development Retreat

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Hopedale Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding three property variance requests. The board will also discuss revisions to zoning by-laws.

• Variance request for a shed at 137 Dutcher Street
• Request to erect a fence higher than seven feet at 18 Highland Street
• Continued hearing for Expose Signs & Graphics, Inc. to add two signs at 1 Airport Drive Extension
• Discussion of revisions to Zoning By-laws

The board unanimously approved a variance allowing Ann Fahey to place a shed at 137 Dutcher Street, relieving the 10‑foot setback requirement. The board also unanimously approved the installation of an 8‑foot, 35‑foot L‑shaped fence at 18 Highland Street. The minutes from the September 17, 2025 meeting were accepted, and the hearing on additional signage at 1 Airport Drive Extension was continued to the November 19, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved 137 Dutcher St. setback variance (all in favor)
• Approved 8‑ft, 35‑ft L‑shaped fence at 18 Highland St. (all in favor)
• Accepted September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Continued signage hearing for 1 Airport Dr. Extension to Nov 19, 2025 (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Administrator - Select Board

Town residents will vote on several financial articles, including budget supplements and capital requests. The meeting includes a citizen petition to increase the size of the Select Board. Other items involve property acquisitions and veterans' tax abatements.

• Proposal to increase Select Board membership from three to five members
• Authorization to purchase condominium units at 54 Hopedale Street
• Transfer of $22,000 from Water Department Certified Retained Earnings to Vehicle Maintenance
• Establishment of an Other Post Employment Benefit Trust Fund with a $5,000 transfer from Free Cash
• Funding requests for 150-154 Mendon Street planning, Little Red Shop Museum repairs, and assessor mapping upgrades

Housing Authority

The Hopedale Housing Authority board will meet on October 9, 2025. The board will approve the September 11, 2025 meeting minutes and the bills from September 11 to October 9, 2025. It will receive a fee accountant balance statement ending August 31, 2025 and an executive director report on correspondence and vacancy/wait‑list matters. The agenda also sets the next meeting for November 13, 2025.

• Approval of September 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of bills from September 11 to October 9, 2025
• Fee Accountant report – balance statement ending August 31, 2025
• Executive Director report on correspondence and vacancy/wait‑list

Road Commissioners

The Board of Road Commissioners will approve the minutes from the September 17, 2025 meeting. They will receive updates on the town's road budget to date and on roadway maintenance. The meeting will also consider any new business, any old business carried over from the previous meeting, and any other topics raised within 48 hours of the meeting.

• Approval of September 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Budget to date update
• Roadway/maintenance updates
• Consideration of new business items
• Consideration of old business items

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve the Community House request to close Hope Street for parking line painting. They also approved the September 17, 2025 meeting minutes and the current budget as presented. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved Community House request to close Hope Street for parking line painting (all in favor)
• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved budget as presented to date (all in favor)

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Trustees voted to accept the September 7, 2025 library minutes, with all members in favor. They then moved to adjourn the October 7 meeting, which also passed unanimously. No other actions requiring a vote were taken.

• Accepted September 7, 2025 minutes (all voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:05 p.m. (all voted in favor)

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee will approve September 9 meeting minutes, hear the superintendent’s report, and vote on several financial items including accounts payable and payroll warrants and budget transfers. It will also consider two public gift donations—a $9,400 grant from the One8 Foundation and a $303 donation from Kathleen Kavanaugh. A field trip request to Washington, DC will be voted on. Additional updates on transportation, family engagement, and program calendars will be discussed.

• Vote on Monthly Report of Accounts Payable Warrants
• Vote on Monthly Report of Payroll Warrants
• Vote on Budget Transfers
• Public Gift Donation/Grant of $9,400 from One8 Foundation for year 2 of ALLI Cohort
• Field Trip Request to Washington, DC – vote required

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss legal strategy regarding three specific court cases. The meeting is scheduled for an executive session to avoid detrimental effects on the Town's litigation positions.

• Litigation strategy for Town of Hopedale v. Jon Delli Priscoli
• Litigation strategy for Reilly v. Town of Hopedale
• Litigation strategy for Grafton & Upton Railroad v. Town of Hopedale

The board approved the minutes from September 8 and September 22, 2025 and accepted three legal‑fund donations totaling $109,360.48. It approved and posted the Special Town Meeting warrant, which includes a citizen petition to expand the board from three to five members. A motion to appoint Mr. Donohue as an alternate on the Zoning Board of Appeals was denied. The board also awarded the Town Park contract to Mountain View Landscape and voted to retain Sally Decelles for 10 hours a week.

• Approved 9/8/2025 & 9/22/2025 minutes (3-0)
• Accepted legal‑fund donations of $3,700; $13,650; $92,010.48 (3-0)
• Approved and posted Special Town Meeting warrant (3-0)
• Appointment of Mr. Donohue as Zoning Board alternate denied (2-1)
• Awarded Town Park project to Mountain View Landscape (no vote recorded)
• Supported retaining Sally Decelles 10 hrs/week (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is meeting to seek preliminary approval for collection, accession, and deaccession policies and a Deed-of-Gift form. The body will also receive updates on the Little Red Shop Museum foundation repair and various digitization projects.

• Preliminary approval of Collection, Accession + Deaccession policies and Deed-of-Gift form
• Update on RFP for Little Red Shop Museum foundation repair
• Update on digitization of Draper Company/Corporation Cotton Chats and residential listings
• Hopedale Walking Tour scheduled for October 25th
• BHC Hike in the Parklands scheduled for November 8th

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss a possible 40‑unit (40B) development off Route 16. The board will continue the hearing on the site‑plan approval for Hopedale Town Park and consider a potential Tax Increment Financing (TIF) project for the Town Hall. It will also review a special permit application in the Marijuana Overlay District at 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11, and a requested Agricultural‑Preservation (ANR) endorsement for 4 Overdale Parkway.

• Possible 40B development off Route 16
• Continued hearing on site‑plan approval for Hopedale Town Park
• Potential TIF project for Town Hall
• Special permit application in Marijuana Overlay District – 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11
• Requested ANR endorsement – 4 Overdale Parkway

The board approved the site plan for the new Town Park, adding a hitting board to at least one tennis court, with a unanimous vote. It declined to endorse the ANR application for 4 Overdale Parkway due to possible wetlands and grade issues, also unanimously. The board continued the special permit hearing for 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11 to November 5, 2025, and approved the September 3, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0).

• Approved Town Park site plan with hitting board amendment (unanimous)
• Declined to endorse ANR plan for 4 Overdale Parkway (unanimous)
• Continued special permit hearing for 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11 to Nov 5 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved September 3 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0 vote)

Administrator - Select Board

The joint meeting of the Hopedale Select Board and Planning Board will consider three items. Board members will discuss the proposed Route 16/40b project. They will also review the Town Hall TIF (Tax Increment Financing) project and the final site plan for the town park.

• Route 16/40b proposal discussion
• TIF project for Town Hall
• Final site plan review for Town Park

Administrator - Select Board

The provided document is a Talent Bank Form and resume for Ralph Tiede, who is applying for a position on the Board of Registrars. There is no formal meeting agenda listed.

• Application for Board of Registrars by Ralph Tiede

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will discuss updates to the Town Park renovation schedule and a study by Tighe and Bond regarding the number of little league fields at Lot A. The body will also address maintenance requests and staffing funds.

• Tighe and Bond study of Lot A regarding little league fields
• Town Park renovation schedule updates
• Request for access to Overdale Parklands entrance by Lou Arcudi
• Discussion on funding for long-term employment of Colton
• Work updates for Draper and Lot A regarding Leone's completion timeline

The commission voted to approve the August 21, 2025 meeting minutes, with all members in favor. After completing agenda items, the board motioned to adjourn, which was also approved unanimously. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved August 21, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the September 18, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Hopedale Board of Health will discuss dumpster regulations and the cost of town trash bags. It will also review and decide on renewing the Waste Zero contract. Additional informational items include mosquito control updates.

• Dumpster Regulations (discussion item)
• Cost of Hopedale Trash Bags (discussion item)
• Waste Zero Contract Renewal (action item)
• Mosquito Control Information (informational item)

The Board of Health unanimously approved the minutes from the August 21, 2025 meeting. It also voted to renew the Waste Zero trash‑collection contract and authorized the chair to execute the agreement. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. No other substantive actions were decided; several items were deferred to future meetings.

• Approved August 21, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Waste Zero contract renewal (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council on Aging Board

The Council on Aging Board will meet to discuss the search process for a Director position. The board will also review the October 2025 calendar of activities and the placement of a Hopedale High School intern at the Senior Center.

• Director position search process
• Hopedale High School intern at Senior Center
• October 2025 calendar activities
• Welcome of new board member Judy Pagnini

The board welcomed new member Judy Pagnini, replacing Karen Kulagowski. It approved using Canva for future newsletters and scheduled flu clinics for Oct 9 and Oct 30, an art show and a Yoga Nidra sound bath for Oct 30, and the annual Veterans Day program for Nov 6. The board directed posting the new director position in early October and planning a meeting with Friends of Elders regarding the Curiosity Shop location.

• Welcomed new member Judy Pagnini, replacing Karen Kulagowski
• Approved transition of newsletter design to Canva, with intern Emma Friesema creating a template
• Scheduled flu clinics for October 9 and October 30
• Scheduled art show display on October 30 in Community House main hall
• Scheduled Yoga Nidra sound bath on October 30 at 4 pm in Community House
• Directed posting of new director position on MMA and town website in early October
• Set Veterans Day program for November 6
• Planned meeting with Friends of Elders to discuss Curiosity Shop location issue

Road Commissioners

The Board will approve the July 9, 2025 meeting minutes, receive updates on the current road budget and maintenance status, and consider where future meetings will be held after the Town Hall moves. No other specific items are on the agenda.

• Approve minutes of July 9, 2025
• Review budget to date
• Review roadway/maintenance updates
• Discuss location of future meetings due to Town Hall relocation
• Old business carried over from last meeting

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Hopedale Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on an application from Andy Clark of Expose Signs & Graphics, Inc., seeking relief from Hopedale Zoning Bylaw section 7.4(d) to add two additional standing signs at 1 Airport Drive Extension. The board will also hear public comments regarding the same site. Additional agenda items include routine procedural matters such as accepting the May 21, 2025 minutes and a motion to adjourn.

• Public hearing on Andy Clark's request to expand signage at 1 Airport Drive Extension
• Public comments regarding 1 Airport Drive Extension
• Acceptance of meeting minutes for May 21, 2025
• Convene in open session
• Motion to adjourn

The board voted to open the public hearing for Expose Signs & Graphics and then to continue that hearing to October 15, 2025. The minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting were approved. The meeting was adjourned at 7:22 p.m.

• Opened public hearing for Expose Signs & Graphics (unanimous)
• Continued hearing to October 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:22 p.m. (unanimous)

Hopedale Cultural Council

The Hopedale Cultural Council is meeting to review preparations for the Day in the Park event and a fundraiser. The body will discuss event logistics, vendor coordination, and marketing.

• Papa Gino’s Fundraiser on September 17, 2025
• Day in the Park event on September 20, 2025 at Hopedale Community House
• Day in the Park marketing plan by Hopedale High School Student Intern
• Day in the Park vendor coordination for food, art show, and entertainment
• Approval of August 18, 2025 minutes

Assessors

The Hopedale Board of Assessors meeting on September 12, 2025 will approve minutes from the June 13, 2025 meeting, review departmental bills, and sign the April 2025 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice and Warrant. The board will also examine lot split requests and new address changes, and hear a Department of Revenue report on the gateway and upcoming classification hearing. A motion will be taken to enter executive session to discuss confidential matters such as abatements and property income disclosures. The meeting will conclude with a motion for adjournment.

• Approve minutes of June 13, 2025 regular and executive sessions
• Sign 2025-04 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice and Warrant
• Review lot splits and new address changes
• Department of Revenue report on gateway and upcoming classification hearing
• Motion to enter executive session on confidential matters

The Board unanimously approved the regular and executive session minutes. It agreed to request funding from the Select Board for near‑maps imaging. The Board also approved a flex‑hour schedule for town‑hall hours. The next Board meeting was set for October 27, 2025.

• Approved regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved executive session minutes (unanimous)
• Requested funding for near‑maps imaging (agreed by all)
• Approved flex schedule for town‑hall hours (unanimous)
• Entered Executive Session (unanimous)
• Adjourned Executive Session (unanimous)
• Set next meeting date for Oct 27 2025 (agreed)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will receive the treasurer’s report and review updates on numerous preservation projects. It notes that the town approved a $62,500 capital request for the Little Red Shop Museum foundation repair at the May 20 Annual Town Meeting. The commission will consider seeking an additional $97,000 for remaining museum repairs at a later Special Town Meeting. The board will also discuss upcoming events, a pest‑control service schedule, and a $37.50 donation for an auction item.

• $62,500 capital request approved for Little Red Shop Museum foundation repair (May 20 Annual Town Meeting)
• Plan to request $97,000 for additional LRSM repairs at a later Special Town Meeting
• Robert Goss donation of $37.50 for LRSM auction victrola
• Dewey Pest Control routine interior service scheduled Sep 22, 12‑3 p.m.; coverage needed
• Participation in WWII in the Blackstone Valley event on Sep 14, Worcester

Housing Authority

The Hopedale Housing Authority will hold its regular monthly board meeting on September 11, 2025. The board will approve minutes from June 12 and August 14, 2025, and approve bills covering the period from August 14 to September 11, 2025. A fee accountant will present balance statements ending July 31, 2025, and the fire chief will discuss the Fire Department Master Boxes.

• Fire Chief Daige to discuss the Fire Department Master Boxes
• Approval of minutes for June 12, 2025 and August 14, 2025 meetings
• Approval of bills from August 14, 2025 to September 11, 2025
• Fee Accountant report – balance statements ending July 31, 2025
• Executive Director report on vacancy and wait list

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Hopedale Water & Sewer Commission will approve the minutes from its August 14, 2025 meeting. Commissioners will receive updates on water restrictions, the flushing distribution system, a copper removal pilot study, the sludge thickening project, and PFAS treatment at the water treatment plant. The agenda also includes a discussion labeled “40 N.” Public comments will be taken after the reports.

• Approve minutes of August 14, 2025
• Update on water restrictions and flushing distribution system
• Discussion of “40 N”
• Copper removal pilot study update
• Sludge thickening project update

The commissioners decided to flush the entire water distribution system over about ten nights and will revisit the watering ban at the next meeting. They also confirmed the town will not receive the expected $200,000 for the 75 Plain Street storage tank and voted not to install the planned Plain Street water main. Billing of $237,000 to 75 Plain Street for I&I removal was noted. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Flush entire water distribution system (≈10 nights) – decided
• Cancel receipt of $200,000 for storage tank at 75 Plain Street – decided
• Vote not to install water main on Plain Street – decided
• Bill 75 Plain Street $237,000 for I&I removal – noted
• Motion to adjourn – unanimous

Road Commissioners

The Board of Road Commissioners will meet to approve minutes from July 9, 2025, and review budget and roadway maintenance updates. The meeting will also cover new and old business items.

• Approval of July 9, 2025 minutes
• Review of budget to date
• Review of Roadway/Maintenance updates
• New Business discussion
• Old Business discussion

The Road Commissioners approved the July 9, 2025 meeting minutes and a budget‑review motion unanimously. They agreed to install a crosswalk at Memorial School and to line parking spaces on Hope Street in the spring. Immediate actions include filling a sidewalk hole on Dutcher Street and removing a misplaced barrel on Progress Street before winter plowing.

• Approved July 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Approved budget‑review motion for Chapter 90 account (unanimous vote)
• Agreed to line parking spaces on Hope Street in spring
• Agreed to install crosswalk at Memorial School entrance in spring
• Stan to fill sidewalk hole on Dutcher Street (immediate action)
• Barrel on Progress Street to be removed before winter plowing
• Highway to provide trash barrels, cones, signs and two vehicles for Day in the Park event
• Stan to seek Town Administrator approval to move future meetings to the Highway Garage

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The trustees accepted the August 5, 2025 minutes. They reallocated $1,000 from the adult print‑books budget to the Overdrive budget. The board voted to update the Child Safety Policy to allow staff to contact police for disruptive behavior or unattended children, and then adjourned the meeting.

• Accepted August 5, 2025 minutes (all voted in favor)
• Reallocated $1,000 from adult print books to Overdrive budget
• Approved update to Child Safety Policy (all voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all voted in favor)

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee will review school preparation and the first day of school reports. The body is deciding on FY25 year-end budget transfers and a Memorandum of Understanding with the Police Department.

• FY25 Year-End Budget Transfers
• Memorandum of Understanding with Police Department
• $35,000 DESE Grant 422A for Innovation Career Pathways
• $3,000 donation from Imperial Cares for school supplies
• Authorization of Principals to receive and disburse Student Activity Funds

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board discussed a complaint alleging an Open Meeting Law violation at the August 4, 2025 meeting. The Board denied the allegation, stating the meeting notice was sufficient and no OML violation occurred.

• Response to Open Meeting Law complaint from Kenneth Manning
• Discussion of tree removal at 87-89 Hopedale Street
• Review of meeting notice posted for August 4, 2025

Planning Board

The Hopedale Planning Board will hold a Zoom meeting on September 3, 2025, to continue a hearing on a site plan approval for Hopedale Town Park. The board will also consider a special permit application for a property in the Marijuana Overlay District at 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11. No updated plans or supplemental materials have been received for either item.

• Continued hearing on Application for Site Plan approval – Hopedale Town Park – updated plans not received
• Application for Special Permit in Marijuana Overlay District – 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11 – no supplemental materials or update received from applicant

The board voted to continue the site‑plan hearing for Hopedale Town Park to October 1, 2025. It also continued the special‑permit hearing for 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11 to the same date. The minutes from the August 18, 2025 meeting were approved, with one member abstaining. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Continuance of Town Park site‑plan hearing to Oct 1 2025 (unanimous)
• Continuance of special‑permit hearing for 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11 to Oct 1 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved August 18 2025 meeting minutes (2 in favor, 1 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:05 pm (unanimous)

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property. The board also intends to discuss litigation strategy regarding three specific legal matters.

• Executive session regarding real property value, lease, or purchase
• Litigation strategy for Town of Hopedale v. Jon Delli Priscoli
• Litigation strategy for Reilly v. Town of Hopedale
• Litigation strategy for Grafton & Upton Railroad v. Town of Hopedale

Council on Aging Board

The Council on Aging Board will meet to discuss the search process for a Director and a current board member vacancy. The board will also review budgets for FY’26/FY’27 and September programming.

• FY’26/FY’27 Budgets
• Director position search process
• COA Board member vacancy discussion
• MWRTA “Catch Connection” activity
• September calendar activities

School Committee

The School Committee is meeting for a tour of the schools with the superintendent and administrative team. No other business items are listed on the agenda.

• Building tour with Superintendent and administrative team from 4:30-6:00 P.M.

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will review the status of the Town Park renovation project, including a bid process scheduled for August 15, and vote on allocating funds for Varsity Baseball at Draper Field and Little League fields at Lot A. The meeting will also address a request for park access and discuss the long-term employment of a staff member.

• Town Park renovation bid process scheduled for Aug 15
• Vote to allocate funds for Varsity Baseball at Draper Field
• Vote to allocate funds for Little League fields at Lot A
• Request for access to Overdale Parklands entrance
• Discussion on employing Colton long term

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from July 22 and August 7, 2025. They gave Mitch the green light to clear Lot A and moved Lou Arcudi's access‑point request to the September meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 22 and August 7 minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred Lou Arcudi access‑point request to September meeting
• Approved clearing of Lot A (green light given, no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Hopedale Board of Health will hold a regular meeting on August 21, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Draper Room at Town Hall. The board will discuss and act on items including a septic plan approval, a smoke shop violation hearing, and various health-related reports.

• Approval of Disposal Works/Septic Plan: 334 South Main Street
• Request for hearing on A-Z Smoke Shop Violation
• Analytical Laboratory Report: Spindleville Pond
• Waste Innovations (Wheelabrator) tonnage and new rate
• FY2025 Trash and Recycling Expenses

The Board approved the July 17, 2025 meeting minutes with all members voting in favor. It upheld a $1,000 fine for A‑Z Smoke Shop and reduced the suspension to one day, also unanimously. The disposal works/septic plan for 334 South Main Street was approved by unanimous vote.

• Approved July 17, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Upheld $1,000 fine and reduced suspension to one day for A‑Z Smoke Shop (all in favor)
• Approved disposal works/septic plan for 334 South Main Street (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a continued hearing regarding the application for site plan approval for Hopedale Town Park. The board will also review and approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Continued hearing on Site Plan approval for Hopedale Town Park

The board voted to postpone the hearing on the Town Park site‑plan application to the September 3, 2025 meeting. It also approved the minutes from the July 9 and August 6 meetings. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:06 pm.

• Continued Town Park site‑plan hearing to Sep 3, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved July 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:06 pm (unanimous)

Hopedale Cultural Council

The council is meeting to discuss the logistics for the Day in the Park event scheduled for September 20, 2025. Members will review band concerts and coordinate event details at the Hopedale Community House.

• Planning for Day in the Park on September 20, 2025, at Hopedale Community House
• Review and input regarding band concerts
• Discussion of vendors, art, attractions, and entertainment for Day in the Park
• Coordination of shuttle bus, signage, and volunteer sign-ups
• Review of marketing plan involving a Hopedale High School student intern

The council accepted the July 21, 2025 meeting minutes in two separate motions. Members voted favorably to implement a parking signage plan for upcoming events. The meeting was formally adjourned.

• Accepted July 21, 2025 minutes (motion by Kelly, seconded by Dee) – passed
• Accepted July 21, 2025 minutes (motion by Gail, seconded by Kelly) – passed
• Approved parking signage plan – committee voted favorably (no vote count provided)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Kelly, seconded by Gail) – passed

Housing Authority

The Housing Authority will meet to approve minutes and bills from June 12 to August 14, 2025. The board will review accountant balance statements and the current vacancy and wait list.

• Approval of bills from June 12, 2025 to August 14, 2025
• Accountant balance statements ending May 31 and June 30, 2025
• Review of vacancy and wait list

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Water & Sewer Commission will meet to discuss utility options for possible development on Route 16. The board will also receive updates on water restrictions and PFAS treatment at the Water Treatment Plant.

• Discussion on Water & Sewer utilities for Rt. 16 for possible development
• Update on water restrictions
• WTP PFAS Treatment update
• Sludge Thickening Project update

The commissioners approved the July 10, 2025 meeting minutes and re‑appointed Ed Burt as chair of the Water & Sewer Board. They reconfirmed project liaisons and voted to have Chairperson Burt send a letter to Town Administrator Mitch Ruscitti regarding $200,000 already used for a new water tank. The meeting was adjourned at 6:22 P.M.

• Approved minutes of July 10, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Re‑appointed Ed Burt as Chair of the Water/Sewer Board (unanimous)
• Reconfirmed project liaisons (unanimous)
• Decided Chairperson Burt will send letter to Town Administrator Mitch Ruscitti about $200,000 water‑tank funding (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:22 P.M. (unanimous)

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will meet to discuss updates to the town park renovation schedule and continue a playground discussion from June. The board will also review tree pruning and field use across the town.

• Town Park renovation schedule updates
• Playground discussion continued from June meeting
• Pruning and cutting of town park trees
• Discussion on field use throughout Hopedale

The commission decided that Phase 1 of the Town Park renovation will be put out to bid on August 15. The meeting was then adjourned with all members in favor of the motion.

• Set Town Park Phase 1 renovation to be bid on August 15 (no vote recorded)
• Adjourn meeting unanimously (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is conducting continued hearings on three specific land-use applications. The board will also review and approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Special Permit application in Marijuana Overlay District for 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11
• Site Plan Modification application for 75 Plain Street
• Site Plan approval application for Hopedale Town Park

The board approved the site plan modifications for 75 Plain Street, including the requested financial changes, with a 3‑yes, 1‑no, 1‑abstain vote. It also approved a continuation hearing for the special permit at 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11, moving it to September 3, 2025, and scheduled a special meeting on August 18, 2025 to continue the town‑park site‑plan hearing. Additionally, the board nominated Christopher Chase as the town’s delegate to the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Committee.

• Continued Special Permit hearing for 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11 to Sep 3 2025 (unanimous)
• Moved Site Plan Modification agenda for 75 Plain Street to 7:30 pm (unanimous)
• Scheduled special meeting Aug 18 2025 at 7 pm to continue Town Park site‑plan hearing (unanimous)
• Nominated Christopher Chase as delegate to CMRPC (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for 75 Plain Street site‑plan modifications (unanimous)
• Approved 75 Plain Street site‑plan modifications with financial changes (3‑yes, 1‑no, 1‑abstain)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:04 pm (unanimous)

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review the library budget and receive a director's report. The meeting includes updates on building maintenance and community programming.

• Budget review
• Building updates regarding the Statue of Hope and front of building cleaning
• ARIS report
• Logo contest and cribbage tournament updates
• Friends of the Hopedale Library update

The Board accepted the July 1, 2025 minutes. It approved spending approximately $4,000 of library donations to purchase new Vox books for the Children’s room. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted July 1, 2025 minutes (all voted in favor)
• Approved $4,000 purchase of Vox books for Children’s room using donations (all voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all voted in favor)

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing to consider removing four diseased and dying maple trees at 87-89 Hopedale Street. The provided text also includes minutes from a June 23 meeting covering various town administrative matters.

• Public hearing for removal of 4 maple trees at 87-89 Hopedale Street
• Approval of a new 5-year contract for Town Administrator Mitchell Ruscitti
• Discussion of a potential move to a 5-member Select Board
• Review of FEMA grant opportunities for emergency generator leases
• Discussion regarding the reopening of Mellen Street Bridge

The Select Board unanimously approved six actions: opening and closing a public hearing and authorizing removal of four hazardous Norwich maples at 87‑89 Hopedale Street; accepting the June 23 minutes; granting a one‑day liquor license for Rushford and Son Brewhouse on August 16; signing a Massachusetts Health Officers Association MOU for a sustainable tobacco‑control program; appointing Bernard Stock as the town’s delegate to the Central Mass Regional Planning Commission; and entering executive session to discuss collective‑bargaining and litigation matters.

• Authorized Tree Warden Chris Larson to remove 4 dangerous trees (3‑0)
• Approved minutes from 06/23/2025 (3‑0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Rushford and Son Brewhouse, Aug 16 2025 (3‑0)
• Approved signing MOU with Massachusetts Health Officers Association for tobacco‑control program (3‑0)
• Appointed Bernard Stock as delegate to Central Mass Regional Planning Commission (3‑0)
• Moved to enter executive session to discuss collective‑bargaining and litigation (3‑0)

Park Commission

The Park Commission will review updates on the Town Park renovation schedule and playground. The body will also discuss town-wide field use and the creation of a committee for a new park opening event.

• Town Park renovation schedule and playground updates
• Phillips Field Irrigation flow test by Darling Well Company
• Rock Wall construction status
• Bathhouse heating updates
• Larry Olson 5k

The commission unanimously approved the June 26, 2025 meeting minutes. They also approved a catch‑and‑release fishing derby at Hopedale Pond. Finally, they approved forming a committee to plan the Town Park opening celebration.

• Approved June 26, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved fishing derby at Hopedale Pond (unanimous)
• Approved committee to plan Town Park opening event (unanimous)

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will meet to address a consent item regarding the acceptance of a donation. The remainder of the agenda is procedural.

• Accept Donation

The Select Board approved a donation of up to $184,000 to the West Street Legal fund. The motion was made by Glenda Hazard, seconded by Bernard Stock, and passed unanimously. The board also adjourned the meeting at 5:04 p.m. by a motion from Hazard, seconded by Stock, which passed unanimously.

• Approved donation up to $184,000 to West Street Legal fund (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:04 p.m. (2-0)

Hopedale Cultural Council

The council is reviewing a marketing proposal and logistical planning for the Day in the Park event scheduled for September 20, 2025. The meeting also includes reports on recent band concerts and scholarship business.

• Day in the Park marketing proposal presented by Gabby Rinehart
• Planning for September 20, 2025 Day in the Park event including location, vendors, and shuttle bus
• Hopedale Class of 2025 scholarship
• Fairy Walk
• Review of June and July band concerts

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss a violation regarding A Z Smoke Shop. The board is also scheduled to vote on septic plans for two residential properties and a new MHOA Memorandum of Understanding.

• Discussion of A Z Smoke Shop Violation
• Approval of Disposal Works/Septic Plan: 50 Plain Street
• Approval of Disposal Works/Septic Plan: 12 Charlesgate Road
• Approval of New MHOA Memorandum of Understanding

The Board of Health approved the June 26, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved disposal and septic plans for 50 Plain Street and 12 Charlesgate Road, and approved a new MHOA Memorandum of Understanding. The board agreed to send a follow‑up violation notice to A Z Smoke Shop citing the $1,000 fine and 3‑day closure.

• Approved June 26, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved disposal/septic plan for 50 Plain Street (unanimous)
• Approved disposal/septic plan for 12 Charlesgate Road, using Presby Environmental Inc. system with 2‑ft offset (unanimous)
• Approved new MHOA Memorandum of Understanding (unanimous)
• Decided to send additional violation letter to A Z Smoke Shop citing $1,000 fine and 3‑day closure, via regular, certified and hand delivery (consensus)

Administrator - Select Board

The Hopedale Select Board will meet to discuss payment procedures for Anderson & Kreiger. The board will also consider a personnel resignation.

• Accept resignation of FF Tim Morse
• Anderson & Kreiger payment procedure

The Select Board adopted a procedure that all legal invoices are sent to the Town Administrator, who will forward them to the donor's representative, while donation checks must be sent only to the Town Administrator and mailed to town hall. The motion, amended by Chair Savage, passed 2‑1. The meeting was adjourned at 7:10 p.m. by a unanimous 3‑0 vote.

• Adopt invoice and check handling procedure (2-1)
• Adjourn meeting (3-0)

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Water & Sewer Commission will meet to discuss wastewater treatment plant copper and updates on PFAS treatment at the water treatment plant. The board will also address the Sludge Thickening Project and matters regarding 75 Plain Street.

• WWTP Copper discussion
• WTP PFAS Treatment update
• Sludge Thickening Project
• 75 Plain Street

The Water & Sewer Commissioners unanimously approved the minutes from the May 8, 2025 meeting and a 36‑hour vacation carryover for Robert MacElhaney. They also approved a motion to investigate a pilot test to address copper issues in the wastewater treatment plant. The meeting was adjourned at 6:56 P.M. by unanimous vote.

• Approved minutes of May 8, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved carryover of 36 vacation hours for Robert MacElhaney (unanimous)
• Approved motion to look into a pilot test for copper removal at the WWTP (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:56 P.M. (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Hopedale Planning Board will meet to review site plan approvals and special permit applications. The board is considering requests for specific properties and a town park.

• Special Permit in Marijuana Overlay District: 2 Evergreen Lane, Unit 11
• Site plan approval: Hopedale Town Park
• Site Plan Modification: 75 Plain Street
• ANR Applications: 167 South Main Street and 11 Plain Street
• Draft Decision review: 50 Plain Street

The board endorsed two ANR requests for 167 South Main Street and 11 Plain Street. It approved a conceptual plan for the Town Park renovation, pending detailed plans. It also postponed the 75 Plain Street water‑tank modification discussion and set a new hearing date for a cannabis delivery permit.

• Endorsed ANR request for 167 South Main Street – approved, all members in favor
• Endorsed ANR request for 11 Plain Street – approved, all members in favor (Chair abstained)
• Approved conceptual Town Park project – approved, all members in favor
• Postponed discussion of 75 Plain Street water‑tank modification to next meeting – approved, all members in favor (Chair abstained)
• Continued special permit hearing for cannabis delivery at 2 Evergreen Lane to Aug 6, 2025 – approved, all members in favor
• Approved minutes of June 11, 2025 – approved, all members in favor
• Closed public hearing – approved, all members in favor
• Closed joint meeting with Select Board – approved, all members in favor

Road Commissioners

The Board of Road Commissioners will meet to approve minutes from June 18, 2025. The board will discuss the budget to date and roadway maintenance.

• Approval of June 18, 2025 minutes
• Budget to date update
• Roadway/Maintenance updates

The Road Commissioners approved the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting. They accepted the FY26 budget as presented. They also voted to cancel the scheduled August meeting due to board members' vacation plans.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted FY26 budget as presented (all in favor)
• Cancelled August Road Commissioners meeting (all in favor)
• Adjourned the July 9 meeting (all in favor)

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board is meeting via Zoom to hold a discussion regarding the Hopedale Town Park. This session includes participation from the Planning Board.

• Discussion regarding Hopedale Town Park with the Planning Board

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to consider the approval of an Order of Condition for a property at 50 Plain Street. The commission will also review meeting minutes from June 3 and June 24, 2025.

• Approval of the Order of Condition for 50 Plain Street

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the Order of Condition for the project at 50 Plain Street. The commission also unanimously approved the minutes from the June 3, 2024 meeting (with an edit noting an abstention) and the minutes from the June 24, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 6:13 p.m.

• Approved Order of Condition for 50 Plain Street (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 3, 2024 with edit on Scott Ellis abstention (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 24, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:13 p.m. (unanimous)

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review the budget and the end of FY25. The meeting includes reports on building maintenance and summer reading programs.

• Budget review
• End of FY25 review
• Building updates regarding the Statue of Hope and cleaning
• FY26 Trustee Meetings and Library holidays schedule

The board approved the minutes from the June 3, 2025 meeting unanimously. Trustees voted unanimously to close the library early on the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Eve. The proposed schedule of future trustee meetings was approved by all members. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 5:10 p.m.

• Approved June 3, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved early library closures before Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Eve (unanimous)
• Approved proposed trustee meeting calendar (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:10 p.m. (unanimous)

Park Commission

The Park Commission will discuss updates regarding the Town Park renovation and Phillips Field irrigation. The body will also address a usage request for a kickball tournament and elect a chairman.

• Usage request from Amy Leone for Kicking Addiction Kickball Tournament
• Phillips Field irrigation flow test by Darling Well Company
• Town Park renovation schedule updates
• Rock Wall construction status
• Bathhouse heating updates

The Park Commission approved the May 22, 2025 meeting minutes. The members agreed to keep Mike Costanza as Chair of the commission. They also approved Amy Leone's kickball fundraiser to be held at Draper Field on July 12, 2025. The remainder of the meeting consisted of discussion about park renovation and playground design, with no formal decisions made.

• Approved May 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Reappointed Mike Costanza as Chair (unanimous)
• Approved Kickball Fundraiser on July 12, 2025 (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will consider a contract with Salmon Home Care LLC and set hourly rates for office staff for FY2026. The board will also review several disposal works and septic plans for local properties.

• Contract approval for Salmon Home Care LLC dba the VNA Hospice of Greater Milford
• FY2026 Hourly Rates for Board of Health Office Staff
• Septic Plan approval for 328 South Main Street (Lot #1 and Lot #2)
• Septic Plan approval for 332 South Main Street (Lot #1)
• Septic Plan approval for 86 Plain Street

The Board approved the minutes from the May 15 meeting and several disposal works/septic plans. It also approved a contract with Salmon Home Care LLC and a 4% increase in staff hourly rates for FY2026. No action was taken on the A‑Z Smoke Shop violation, which was placed on the next agenda.

• Approved May 15, 2025 meeting minutes (all voted in favor)
• Approved Disposal Works/Septic Plan for 328 South Main St Lot #1 (2‑0‑1)
• Approved Disposal Works/Septic Plan for 328 South Main St Lot #2 (2‑0‑1)
• Approved Disposal Works/Septic Plan for 332 South Main St (2‑0‑1)
• Approved Disposal Works/Septic Plan for 86 Plain St (all voted in favor)
• Approved Salmon Home Care LLC dba VNA Hospice of Greater Milford contract (all voted in favor)
• Approved FY2026 Board of Health staff hourly rates – 4% increase (all voted in favor)
• No action taken on A‑Z Smoke Shop violation; deferred to next meeting

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss the Town Park Project in coordination with the Parks Commission.

• Discussion of Town Park Project with Parks Commission

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will continue public hearings regarding two Notices of Intent on Plain Street. The commission will also vote on membership dues for a professional association.

• Public hearing for a single-family home at 86 Plain Street
• Public hearing for a contractor’s yard at 50 Plain Street
• Vote to approve $475 for Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions dues

The Conservation Commission closed the public hearing for 86 Plain Street and approved its Order of Conditions, setting a three‑year effective period. The hearing for 50 Plain Street was also closed, and the commission will draft its Order of Conditions within 21 days. A payment of $475 for dues to the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions was approved. All motions passed unanimously.

• Closed public hearing for 86 Plain Street (unanimous)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 86 Plain Street (unanimous)
• Set three‑year term for Order of Conditions at 86 Plain Street (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for 50 Plain Street (unanimous)
• Approved $475 payment for Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions dues (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is reviewing expenses for museum maintenance and updates on the donation of textile looms and books to other museums. The body is also tracking funding for foundation repairs at the Little Red Shop Museum.

• Approval of $62,500 from Free Cash for Little Red Shop Museum foundation repair
• Planned request for $97,000 for remaining museum repairs at a future Special Town Meeting
• Donation of looms and books to the North Carolina Textile Museum
• Proposed donation of a 36” Draper K-Model loom to Timothy J. Fullum
• Request to purchase a new printer/scanner/copier for the Museum

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board and Tree Warden will conduct a public hearing to consider the removal of a public shade tree. The hearing is scheduled for June 23, 2025, at 6:30pm.

• Public hearing for the removal of a public shade tree at 198 Dutcher Street

The board opened, closed, and approved the removal of a dead shade tree on Dutcher Street (3‑0 vote). It also approved the prior meeting minutes, a FY25 energy‑account transfer request, and the annual board appointments (each 3‑0). The board entered executive session to discuss contract negotiations and emerged with agreement on a new five‑year contract for the Town Administrator. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. (3‑0).

• Open public hearing on Dutcher Street shade tree removal (approved 3‑0)
• Close public hearing on Dutcher Street shade tree removal (approved 3‑0)
• Approve removal of Dutcher Street shade tree (approved 3‑0)
• Approve minutes from 5/19/2025 and 6/9/2025 (approved 3‑0)
• Approve FY25 End‑of‑Year Transfer Request for Energy accounts (approved 3‑0)
• Approve annual board appointments, Part 2 (approved 3‑0)
• Enter executive session to discuss negotiations (approved 3‑0)
• Agree on new five‑year Town Administrator contract (unanimous agreement)

Hopedale Cultural Council

The council is meeting to discuss the Day in the Park event scheduled for September 20, 2025, at the Hopedale Community House. Members will review logistics including vendors, mapping, and marketing. The meeting also covers updates on the Class of 2025 scholarship and the Fairy Walk.

• Day in the Park planning for September 20, 2025
• Hopedale Class of 2025 scholarship
• Fairy Walk
• Band concert schedule for June and July
• Hopedale High School Student Intern marketing plan

Road Commissioners

The Board of Road Commissioners will meet to discuss roadway maintenance and the current budget. The board will also consider a request to close a street for a community event.

• Request to close Draper Street for Day in the Park event on September 20, 2025
• Review of budget to date
• Roadway and maintenance updates

The board unanimously approved the meeting minutes from May 21 and June 5, 2025. They also approved the FY2025 budget as presented. Additionally, they approved the Cultural Council's request to close Draper Street for the Day in the Park event on September 20, 2025 and to add handicap parking spaces on Hope Street.

• Approved May 21 and June 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY2025 budget as delivered (unanimous)
• Approved request to close Draper Street for Day in the Park on Sep 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved addition of handicap parking spaces on Hope Street (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:55 PM (unanimous)

Town Clerk

The Select Board was authorized to purchase Unit 1 and Unit 103 of the Hopedale Professional Building Condominium at 54 Hopedale Street for town office use. The town appropriated $600,000 for the acquisition and authorized the Treasurer, with Select Board approval, to borrow that amount. The Finance Committee recommended favorable action. A motion to dissolve the meeting warrant was also carried.

• Authorized purchase of two condo units for town offices and appropriated $600,000 (2/3 vote)
• Motion to dissolve the meeting warrant carried

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the Special Town Meeting Warrant. A vote may be taken on this item.

• Special Town Meeting Warrant

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will meet to discuss employee hiring for the summer program. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items.

• Summer Program employee hiring discussion

Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review departmental bills and sign motor vehicle and trailer excise documents. The board will also consider real estate and personal property abatement applications during an executive session.

• Letter of authorization for Assessor to submit information to gateway (DOR)
• 2025-03 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant
• May 2025 monthly list of abatements for motor vehicle excise
• Real Estate and Personal Property abatement applications

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved the regular and executive session minutes from May 2, 2025. They entered an executive session to discuss confidential matters and adjourned it unanimously. The Board also agreed to hold its next meeting on September 12, 2025.

• Approve regular meeting minutes (May 2, 2025) – unanimous
• Approve executive session minutes (May 2, 2025) – unanimous
• Enter Executive Session under Purpose 7 – unanimous
• Adjourn Executive Session – unanimous
• Set next Board of Assessors meeting for September 12, 2025 – agreed
• Review and sign Preliminary Notice of Commitment and Warrants – action taken
• Review and sign monthly motor vehicle excise abatements list (May 2025) – action taken
• Sign letter of authorization for Assessor to submit information to DOR – action taken

Housing Authority

The Hopedale Housing Authority will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding its Annual Plan. The board will also review financial reports and the current vacancy and wait list.

• Public hearing on the Annual Plan
• Approval of bills from May 12, 2025 to June 12, 2025
• Review of balance statements for April 31, 2025
• Review of vacancy and wait list

Council on Aging Board

The Council on Aging Board will meet to review the Director position search process and the MWRTA Catch Connection rollout. The board will also discuss the potential loss of the Friends’ of Elders Re-sale Shoppe.

• Director position search process
• MWRTA Catch Connection rollout
• Revolving account balances
• Potential loss of Friends’ of Elders Re-sale Shoppe

The board reported outreach calls to seniors, a change allowing dual MassHealth and MSP coverage, and the operation of the new Milford‑Hopedale transportation service. Members discussed making the director position full‑time, beginning a search for a replacement in October, replacing seven‑year‑old computers, and the impact of a possible Town Hall relocation on the Friends of Elders thrift shop. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded; the next meeting is set for August 21.

Planning Board

The Hopedale Planning Board will meet via Zoom to continue a public hearing regarding a site plan application. The board will also review minutes and handle correspondence.

• Continued public hearing for site plan approval at 50 Plain Street

The board closed the public hearing on the 50 Plain Street site plan and voted to approve the plan after confirming compliance with zoning bylaws. The motion to approve the site plan was adopted unanimously. The board also approved the May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (four members in favor, one abstention) and set a July 9, 2025 meeting to review the draft decision.

• Closed public hearing for 50 Plain Street site plan (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for 50 Plain Street (unanimous)
• Approved May 7, 2025 minutes (4 in favor, 1 abstain)
• Scheduled July 9, 2025 meeting to review draft decision and other items
• Adjourned meeting at 7:51 pm (unanimous)

School Committee

The School Committee will review monthly financial reports and vote on budget transfers and the warrant signing schedule. The body will also discuss bus lease options and the creation of a facilities subcommittee.

• Vote on budget transfers and authorization for Chair to approve year-end budget transfers
• Vote on Parent-Student Handbook
• Acceptance of $5,000 donation from Toshiba America Foundation
• Acceptance of $1,000 donation from Blackstone Valley Education Foundation for CIRC Center equipment
• Acceptance of $75 donation from Cranes101, Inc. for Body Systems Fair Capstone Project

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will meet to ratify a contract for the Hopedale Permanent Fire Local 2225 and review a report from Tighe & Bond regarding West Street. The board will also handle annual board appointments and discuss the process for legal fund donations.

• Ratification of Hopedale Permanent Fire Local 2225 Contract
• Tighe & Bond West Street Report
• Annual Board Appointments for various town positions
• Discussion on process for legal fund donations
• FY2026 Meeting Schedule approval

The board approved the minutes from the April 14 and May 5 meetings, ratified the town's Permanent Fire Local 2225 contract, and approved the annual board appointments. The meeting was then adjourned. Other items such as the West Street report and park updates were discussed but no formal actions were taken.

• Approved 4/14/2025 minutes (2-0-1)
• Approved 5/5/2025 minutes with edit (3-0-0)
• Ratified Hopedale Permanent Fire Local 2225 contract (3-0-0)
• Approved annual board appointments (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

Road Commissioners

The Board of Road Commissioners will meet to review resumes to fill a recently vacated position. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Review of resumes for backfill of vacated position

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Notice of Intent for a single-family house. The commission may vote on a recommendation regarding proposed grading within 100 feet of a bordering vegetated wetland.

• Notice of Intent for a single-family house at 86 Plain Street

The Conservation Commission voted to postpone the public hearings for the Notice of Intent at 86 Plain Street and 50 Plain Street to June 24, 2025. It also approved the renewal of Keolis' five‑year vegetative spraying plan for the Charles River railbeds. The Order of Condition for 134 Mill Street was signed and approved, and the minutes from the May 13, 2025 meeting were adopted. The meeting was adjourned at 6:46 p.m.

• Approved continuation of public hearing for 86 Plain Street to June 24, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved continuation of public hearing for 50 Plain Street to June 24, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of 5‑year Keolis railbed spraying plan (unanimous)
• Approved Order of Condition for 134 Mill Street (4‑0‑1)
• Approved minutes from May 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:46 p.m. (unanimous)

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review the library budget and receive a director's report on facility issues. The meeting includes updates on grants and upcoming community events.

• Budget review
• Discussion of roof leaks and Statue of Hope cleaning
• ARSL grant for ADA door and painting
• House Hacking 101 event on June 21st
• Cribbage Tournament on Sept. 17th

The trustees unanimously accepted the May 6, 2025 minutes. They voted to change future trustees’ meetings to start at 4:30 p.m. and approved closing the library on July 5, 2025 (in addition to the July 4 holiday). The board also noted that a policy on out‑of‑state library cards will need to be drafted and approved.

• Accepted May 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Updated Trustees meeting start time to 4:30 p.m. (unanimous)
• Approved library closure on July 5, 2025 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding two separate projects on Plain Street. The body will also vote on conditions for a Mill Street property and review railbed spraying by Keolis.

• Public hearing for a single-family home at 86 Plain Street
• Public hearing for a contractor’s yard at 50 Plain Street
• Vote on Order of Condition for 134 Mill Street
• Determination of Applicability for Keolis spraying railbeds along Charles River

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will discuss the acquisition of condo units at 54 Hopedale Street for use as Town Hall. The board will also address the Open Special Town Meeting Warrant for June 17th.

• Acquisition of condo units at 54 Hopedale Street for Town Hall
• Open Special Town Meeting Warrant for June 17th at 7 p.m.
• Executive session to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property at 54 Hopedale Street

Park Commission

The Park Commission will discuss summer program applications and correspondence regarding the Fairy Walk and summer camps. The board is reviewing action items including irrigation quotes for Phillips Field and tree removal at the Rock Wall.

• Phillips Field Irrigation updates and status of three required quotes
• Rock Wall tree removal status and potential impact on events
• Bathhouse heating updates
• Summer Program application process
• Correspondence from Tracey Phillips regarding the Fairy Walk

The commission approved the minutes from the April 17, 2025 meeting unanimously. They agreed to defer the vote on the proposed $1,500 bathhouse baseboard heating upgrade until the June meeting. The request for Larry Olson's 5K event was also moved to the July meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved April 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed bathhouse heating upgrade vote to June meeting (unanimous)
• Moved Larry Olson 5K request to July meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Road Commissioners

The Board of Road Commissioners will meet to approve minutes from the April 9, 2025 meeting. The board will discuss the budget to date and roadway maintenance.

• Approval of April 9, 2025 meeting minutes
• Budget to date update
• Roadway/Maintenance updates

The Road Commissioners unanimously approved the minutes from the April 9, 2025 meeting. They also approved the budget report as presented. A motion to keep the board’s structure unchanged after the May 13 elections was carried. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved April 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved budget report as presented (unanimous)
• Kept board structure as is after election (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Hopedale Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit application. The board may vote on whether to allow a contractor's yard at 50 Plain Street.

• Public hearing for D & F Alfonso Builders, Inc. regarding a contractor's yard at 50 Plain Street

The board opened and then closed the public hearing for the 50 Plain Street application. It unanimously approved the special permit to create a contractor’s yard at that address. The board also accepted the February 19, 2025 minutes and adjourned the meeting. The clerk will email a copy of the 2015 minutes requested by a resident.

• Opened public hearing for 50 Plain Street (all members in favor)
• Closed public hearing for 50 Plain Street (all members in favor)
• Approved special permit for contractor’s yard at 50 Plain Street (unanimous yes)
• Accepted minutes of February 19, 2025 (all members in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting (all members in favor)
• ZBA clerk will email resident a copy of the November 18, 2015 minutes

Town Clerk

The Annual Town Meeting unanimously approved the FY2026 operating budget and a series of departmental budgets, salary adjustments, fund transfers, and capital equipment purchases. The Town Clerk's salary was fixed at $81,106 effective July 1, 2025. Additional appropriations were made for water, sewer, community preservation, and equipment for highway, police, and fire departments.

• Fixed Town Clerk salary at $81,106 effective July 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2026 operating budget appropriation of $32,515,279 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2026 Water Department budget of $1,676,767 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2026 Sewer Department budget of $1,914,731 (unanimous)
• Transferred $23,028 to Water Department Reserve Fund (unanimous)
• Transferred $10,859 to Sewer Department Reserve Fund (unanimous)
• Appropriated $9,614 from Community Preservation Act fund for committee operations (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Highway Department equipment (Chevrolet 3500 Dump Truck) for $89,300 (unanimous)

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to conduct a budget workshop for Fiscal Year 2026. This session is focused on planning the school district's future spending.

• Budget Workshop: FY 2026

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will conduct a public hearing regarding Superior Auto with owner Luciano Zunto. The board will also vote on the Hopedale Clerical Contract and an updated HCA with High Hopes LLC. Other discussions include the FY26 budget and Town Meeting preparations.

• Public hearing for Superior Auto with owner Luciano Zunto
• Vote to ratify Hopedale Clerical Contract
• Vote to execute updated HCA with High Hopes LLC
• FY26 Budget Update
• Town Park and Town Hall updates

The board elected Scott Savage as the new chair. It approved a Class II license for Superior Auto and Detailing. The Hopedale clerical contract and an updated agreement with High Hopes LLC were ratified and executed. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Class II license for Superior Auto and Detailing (Savage Aye, Hazard Aye, Stock Aye)
• Approved motion to close the public hearing (Savage Aye, Hazard Aye, Stock Aye)
• Elected Scott Savage as chair of the Select Board (Savage Aye, Stock Aye, Hazard Aye)
• Ratified Hopedale clerical contract (Savage Aye, Hazard Aye, Stock Aye)
• Executed updated HCA with High Hopes LLC (Savage Aye, Hazard Aye, Stock Aye)

Finance Committee

The Hopedale Finance Committee will meet to discuss the FY2026 budget and the 2025 Annual Town Meeting warrant, with a possible vote on the warrant. The meeting is hybrid, held in person and via Zoom.

• FY2026 budget discussion
• Discussion of 2025 ATM Warrant – a vote may be taken

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to appoint its Chair and Vice Chair and approve the FY2026 meeting schedule. The board will discuss the disposition of 201 Hopedale Street and review the Salmon VNA annual contract.

• Disposition of 201 Hopedale Street
• Review of Salmon VNA Annual Contract
• Approval of FY2026 Board of Health Meeting Schedule
• Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair

The Board of Health appointed Ms. Watson as chair and Mr. MacDonald as vice chair, with all members voting in favor. The board approved the FY2026 meeting schedule and issued a 3‑day suspension to A‑Z Smoke Shop, each decision receiving unanimous support. Minutes from the April 17 and April 24 meetings were also approved unanimously.

• Appointed Ms. Watson chairperson (all voted in favor)
• Appointed Mr. MacDonald vice chairperson (all voted in favor)
• Approved April 17, 2025 meeting minutes (all voted in favor)
• Approved April 24, 2025 meeting minutes (all voted in favor)
• Issued 3‑day suspension to A‑Z Smoke Shop (all voted in favor)
• Approved FY2026 Board of Health meeting schedule (all voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all voted in favor)

Town Clerk

The town recorded 343 ballots cast, a 7.69% turnout of 4,460 registered voters. Four absentee ballots were mailed and all four were returned; 339 residents voted in person. Vote totals for each board and committee were listed in the official results. No other actions or decisions were taken.

Conservation Commission

The Hopedale Conservation Commission will hold two continued public hearings on Notices of Intent for properties at 50 Plain Street and 134 Mill Street. The commission will also consider approving minutes from its April 15, 2025 meeting. No new proposals or votes are scheduled beyond these items.

• Continuation of public hearing on Notice of Intent for 50 Plain Street
• Continuation of public hearing on Notice of Intent for 134 Mill Street
• Approval of minutes from April 15, 2025
• Topics not reasonably anticipated by the chair 48 hours prior

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the Notice of Intent to build a single‑family home at 134 Mill Street. The public hearing on that project was closed, and the updated Operations and Maintenance Plan will be recorded with the deed. The commission also unanimously continued the hearing on the 50 Plain Street project to the next meeting, approved the April 15, 2025 minutes, and adjourned.

• Approved continuation of the 50 Plain St public hearing to the next meeting (unanimous)
• Closed the public hearing for 134 Mill St (unanimous)
• Approved the Notice of Intent for a single‑family home at 134 Mill St (unanimous)
• Approved the minutes from April 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Hopedale Water & Sewer Commission will hold a hybrid meeting on May 8, 2025, to discuss and vote on surplus land, review the sludge thickener sub-bid schedule, and consider budgets and retained earnings for a rate review. Public comments will be taken. The agenda includes approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Votes on surplus land (New Business A)
• Sludge thickener sub-bid walkthrough (New Business B)
• Budget retained earnings and rate review (Old Business A)
• Approve minutes of joint meeting with Finance Committee (March 13, 2025) and April 10, 2025 meeting
• Public and board member comments

The commissioners unanimously approved the joint finance meeting minutes from March 13 and the April 10 meeting minutes. They voted to release 31 acres of surplus land adjacent to the sewer plant to the town. The Water Department budget of $1,676,767 and the Sewer Department budget of $1,914,731 were both approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 6:49 p.m.

• Approved joint finance meeting minutes of March 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the April 10, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Released 31 acres of surplus land to the town (unanimous)
• Approved Water Department budget of $1,676,767 (unanimous)
• Approved Sewer Department budget of $1,914,731 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:49 p.m. (unanimous)

Housing Authority

This is a regular monthly board meeting of the Hopedale Housing Authority. The board will approve minutes from the previous meeting, approve bills from March to May 2025, and review fee accountant reports including balance statements and quarterly reports. The executive director will provide an update on correspondence and the vacancy/wait list.

• Approval of minutes from March 6, 2025 meeting
• Approval of bills from March 6 to May 8, 2025
• Review of fee accountant balance statements for February and March 2025
• Review of quarterly report ending March 31, 2025
• Executive director's report on vacancy and wait list

Finance Committee

The Hopedale Finance Committee will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss the FY2026 budget and the 2025 Annual Town Meeting warrant, with a possible vote on the warrant. The meeting includes time reserved for unanticipated topics. No specific dollar amounts or project details are listed in the agenda.

• Discussion of FY2026 budget
• Discussion of 2025 Annual Town Meeting warrant with possible vote
• Time reserved for topics not anticipated by the chair

Planning Board

The Hopedale Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing for a Site Plan Approval application at 50 Plain Street. The board will also review and approve minutes from previous meetings and handle any unanticipated topics.

• Continued public hearing for Site Plan Approval at 50 Plain Street

The Planning Board voted to continue the site‑plan hearing for 50 Plain Street until June 11, 2025 at 7 pm. The Board also approved the minutes from the April 9, 2025 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:11 pm.

• Continuance of 50 Plain Street site‑plan hearing to June 11, 2025 approved (all in favor)
• April 9, 2025 meeting minutes approved (all in favor)
• Meeting adjourned at 7:11 pm approved (all in favor)

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Bancroft Memorial Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve April minutes, hear the director's report covering the Statue of Hope cleaning, an ARSL grant for an ADA-compliant door, a quote for exterior cleaning, phone system updates, and youth services including summer reading. The board will also review the library budget and receive an update from the Friends of the Hopedale Library. Public participation is scheduled.

• Approval of April 1, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director's report on ARSL grant and ADA door accessibility
• Quote for cleaning exterior and planters
• Budget review
• Youth services and summer reading updates

The trustees voted to accept the April 1, 2025 library minutes, with all members in favor. They then moved to adjourn the May 6 meeting, also unanimously approved. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Accepted April 1, 2025 minutes (all voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all voted in favor)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to review articles on the Town Warrant and a public meeting. The committee will also discuss a signature gathering plan and which town meeting should receive a proposed change to the conflict-of-interest by-law.

• Articles on Town Warrant
• Review of Public meeting
• Proposed change to conflict-of-interest by-law

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee will hold a regular meeting on May 6, 2025, approving minutes from April meetings, hearing student and superintendent reports, and voting on several financial items. Key actions include a vote on school choice for 2025-2026, approval of budget transfers and warrants, and acceptance of three public gift donations totaling $24,000. The committee will also conduct a second reading of policy KF-R on community use of school facilities and hold an executive session for negotiations with union and non-union personnel.

• Vote on school choice for 2025-2026
• Accept $4,500 from Rob Hansen/Goodnation Foundation for Grade 8 civics curriculum
• Accept $18,300 from Community Initiatives for 7th/8th grade science curriculum
• Accept $1,200 from District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. for safe after-prom event
• Second reading of policy KF-R on community use of school facilities

Administrator - Select Board

The Hopedale Select Board will vote on consent items including a $37,668 donation for GURR legal expenses, ratification of Water/Sewer and Highway Department contracts, and several appointments. New business includes a Life Saving Award, a presentation from MWRTA on Catch Connect, and a discussion on Free Cash. Old business covers the FY26 budget update, Town Park update, and Town Meeting Warrant discussion with Attorney Gerald Moody. The board will also enter executive session to discuss litigation in three cases and negotiations with the Hopedale Public Employee Committee.

• Accept $37,668.28 donation toward GURR legal expenses
• Ratify contracts for Water and Sewer Department and Highway Department
• Appoint Kyle Dupuis to Hopedale Police Department
• FY26 Budget Update and Town Park Update
• Town Meeting Warrant discussion with Attorney Gerald Moody

The Select Board approved several consent items, including minutes, a donation, a letter of donation, and a highway and water sewer contract. It accepted two fire‑fighter resignations and appointed a new police officer and a fire department member. The Board voted to enter two executive sessions, one to discuss litigation strategy and another to discuss public‑employee bargaining strategy.

• Approved minutes from 3/10/2025, 3/24/2025 and 4/7/2025 (3‑0)
• Accepted $37,668.28 donation for GURR legal expenses (2‑1)
• Approved letter of Loom Donations (3‑0)
• Ratified Hopedale Highway and Water Sewer contract FY26‑FY29 (3‑0)
• Accepted resignations of Call FF Dalton Ionson and Call FF Ronan Kast (3‑0)
• Appointed Kyle Dupuis to Hopedale Police Department (3‑0)
• Entered executive session to discuss litigation strategy (2‑1)
• Entered executive session to discuss bargaining strategy (3‑0)

Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet on May 2, 2025, to approve prior meeting minutes, review departmental bills paid, and sign motor vehicle excise notices and warrants. They will also review monthly abatement lists for March and April. The board will then enter executive session to discuss confidential abatement applications and personal exemptions.

• Approval of minutes from March 14, 2025 (regular and executive session)
• Review of departmental bills paid since last meeting
• Signing 2025-02 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant
• Signing 2025-40A Recommit of Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant
• Executive session to process FY25 Personal Exemptions and abatement applications

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved both the regular and executive session minutes from May 2, 2025. It reviewed and signed the preliminary notice of commitment, warrants, departmental bills, and the May motor‑vehicle excise abatements list. The Board agreed to hold its next meeting on September 12, 2025 and authorized the Assessor to submit information to the Department of Revenue. An executive session was entered and later adjourned, with both motions passing unanimously.

• Approved regular meeting minutes from May 2, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved executive session minutes from May 2, 2025 (unanimous)
• Signed Preliminary Notice of Commitment and Warrants for real and personal property
• Signed monthly list of motor vehicle excise abatements for May 2025 (no vote)
• Agreed on next Board of Assessors meeting date: September 12, 2025
• Signed letter authorizing Assessor to submit information to DOR
• Entered Executive Session under Purpose 7 to discuss confidential matters (unanimous)
• Adjourned Executive Session (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Hopedale Historical Commission will hold a hybrid meeting on May 1, 2025, primarily discussing updates on old business, including a proposed donation of looms and books to the North Carolina Textile Museum, corrections to the Community Preservation Act plan, and progress on the digitization of Draper Company materials. New business items include setting a reopening date for the Little Red Shop Museum, applying for state grants, and acknowledging a donation of historical negatives. The meeting includes public comment and approval of past minutes, with no major votes or decisions expected.

• Donation of four looms and ~17 boxes of non-Draper books to North Carolina Textile Museum, pending Select Board approval on May 5
• Update on corrections to the Community Preservation Committee plan presented on March 25
• Discussion of when to reopen the Little Red Shop Museum for 2025
• Plans to apply for SHRAB Roving Archivist and Veterans’ Heritage grants for the General Draper Papers and WWI scrapbook
• Inquiry into Hopedale Foundation grant guidelines for museum restoration funds

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the FY2026 budget and the 2025 ATM Warrant, with a potential vote on the warrant. The committee will also hold a follow-up discussion regarding accounting corrections.

• FY2026 budget discussion
• 2025 ATM Warrant discussion and potential vote
• Follow-up discussion on accounting corrections

Community Preservation Committee

The Hopedale Community Preservation Committee is meeting to approve past minutes and discuss new and old business. Items include reviewing articles for the Town Warrant and a public hearing, as well as changing the conflict-of-interest by-law and planning its presentation at town meeting. The agenda is largely procedural with no concrete decisions or funding amounts listed.

• Discussion of changing the conflict-of-interest by-law and planning for town meeting submission and signature gathering
• Review of public hearing items
• Approval of minutes from multiple past meetings (June 2024 through March 2025)

Town Clerk

The Board of Registrars is conducting a test of voting equipment on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 10:30am in the Draper Room at Town Hall. This is a procedural item with no decisions or public hearings.

• Test of voting equipment at 10:30am in the Draper Room

Finance Committee

The Hopedale Finance Committee will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss the Board of Health's FY2026 budget proposal and the Annual Town Meeting (ATM) warrant, on which a vote may be taken. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom and in person.

• Board of Health FY2026 budget proposal discussion
• Discussion of ATM Warrant – a vote may be taken
• Hybrid meeting format with in-person and Zoom access
• Public comment allowed during discussion items

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 budget with the Finance Committee.

• FY 2026 Budget Discussion with Finance Committee

The Hopedale Board of Health met on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Draper Room, Town Hall. The only action taken was a motion to adjourn, moved by Mr. Swift, seconded by Ms. Watson, and approved by all members. No other decisions or approvals were recorded.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will discuss the summer program application process and resident survey, review several action items including Phillips Field irrigation quotes, the Town Park rock wall project, and beaver dam removal, and consider usage requests for Grade 4 and 5 days in the park and a 5K run. The commission will also approve prior meeting minutes and handle bills and public comments.

• Summer program conversation on application process and resident survey
• Usage request from Kelli Mylett for Grade 4 Day in the Park on June 11, 2025
• Usage request from Shanna Lathrop for 5th Grade Day in the Parklands and Town Park on June 25, 2025
• Weed Treatment contract signed
• Phillips Field irrigation updates needing three quotes

The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes and authorized the Larry Olson 5k race, with the exact location to be decided later. It also approved school‑day usage requests for 4th‑grade (June 11), 5th‑grade (date corrected) and 6th‑grade (May 19) events. Additionally, a contract was signed with Water & Wetlands for weed treatment in the park.

• Approved April 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Larry Olson 5k race, location to be determined (unanimous)
• Approved 4th‑grade day in the park on June 11, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved 5th‑grade day usage after correcting dates (unanimous)
• Approved 6th‑grade day in the park on May 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Signed contract with Water & Wetlands for weed treatment

Finance Committee

The Hopedale Finance Committee will hold a remote meeting to discuss the Annual Town Meeting (ATM) 2025 warrant and continue its review of the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; the meeting is focused on discussion.

• Discussion of the ATM 2025 warrant
• Continued discussion of the FY2026 budget

Board of Health

The Hopedale Board of Health will hold a regular meeting on April 17, 2025. The sole substantive item is a discussion of the FY2026 budget with the Finance Committee. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• FY2026 Budget Discussion with Finance Committee

The Hopedale Board of Health approved the FY2026 Annual Permit Fee Schedule, the Annual Recycle Center Fee Schedule, and the release of a long‑outstanding trash collection bond. All three items were adopted with unanimous votes. The board also approved the minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting and adjourned the session.

• Approved FY2026 Annual Permit Fee Schedule (unanimous)
• Approved Annual Recycle Center Fee Schedule (unanimous)
• Approved release of 1990s trash collection bond (unanimous)
• Approved March 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council on Aging Board

The Council on Aging Board will meet to review the Director's report and discuss the FY’26 budget for the May 2025 Annual Town Meeting. The board will also address the MWRTA “Catch Connection” rollout and the search process for the Director position.

• FY’26 Budget/Annual Town Meeting May 2025
• MWRTA “Catch Connection” Rollout
• Director Position Search Process

The board approved the March meeting minutes. It agreed to form a committee to conduct the search for a new director. The May meeting was cancelled and the next meeting was set for June 12. No vote counts were recorded.

• Accepted March minutes
• Formed a committee to conduct the new director search
• Cancelled May meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for June 12

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee is meeting remotely for a single agenda item: an executive session to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining or litigation. No public business or decisions are scheduled; the meeting will adjourn after the closed session.

• Executive session for collective bargaining or litigation strategy discussion

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Notice of Intent for a project at 50 Plain Street. The commission may vote on a recommendation regarding the proposed construction within a wetland buffer.

• Notice of Intent to build a 50’ x 100’ garage with parking, grading, and utilities at 50 Plain Street

The Conservation Commission voted to continue the public hearing on the Notice of Intent for 50 Plain Street until May 13, 2025. It also voted to continue the hearing for the revised plans at 134 Mill Street to the same date. The commission approved the minutes from the December 17, 2024, March 18, 2025, and April 1, 2025 meetings, and then adjourned.

• Continued hearing for 50 Plain St to May 13, 2025 (all in favor)
• Continued hearing for 134 Mill St to May 13, 2025 (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from Dec 17, 2024 (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from Mar 18, 2025 (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from Apr 1, 2025 (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:18 pm (all in favor)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Hopedale Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance application from Cassidy Fechtor to operate a commercial dog boarding and daycare facility at 157 Mill Street. The board will also discuss a zoning complaint and a cease-and-desist order for other properties. The meeting includes public comments and acceptance of prior minutes.

• Public hearing on variance for Pupchella dog boarding/daycare at 157 Mill Street (Section 11.5)
• Letter of support for Pupchella application from Thomas Buie and Wendy Lutz
• Complaint form regarding 1 Airport Road for alleged violation of Zoning Bylaw Section 7.9
• Cease-and-desist order at 6 Anthony Road for non-compliance with Section 6.1 (Home Occupations)

Park Commission

The Park Commission and Select Board will hold a joint meeting to discuss potential improvements to Town Park. The agenda lists only this single discussion item, with no specific proposals, plans, or dollar amounts. The meeting will be conducted remotely.

• Joint discussion with Select Board on Town Park improvements

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission and Select Board will hold a joint meeting to discuss proposed improvements to Town Park. No specific proposals or funding amounts are listed on the agenda; the item is noted as a discussion only.

• Joint discussion with Select Board regarding Town Park improvements

Administrator - Select Board

The Hopedale Annual Town Meeting will vote on 31 articles including the FY2026 operating and utility budgets, capital equipment purchases for town departments, and several major proposals. Key decisions include whether to authorize the Select Board to acquire the Hopedale Country Club lease for 55+ housing, establish a Redevelopment Authority, and sell or lease the historic Town Hall.

• $23,028 transfer from Water Department health insurance to Water Reserve Fund
• $10,859 transfer from Sewer Department health insurance to Sewer Reserve Fund
• $2,000,000 borrowing for sludge thickening upgrades at Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Proposal to sell or lease the Hopedale Town Hall and associated land
• Proposal to acquire Hopedale Country Club lease rights for 55+ housing development

The Select Board voted to place all items except one on the 2025 Annual Town Meeting warrant, removing the proposed Redevelopment Authority article. No vote tally was recorded. The board also approved a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:17 p.m.

• Approved placement of all but one items on 2025 Annual Town Meeting warrant; article creating Redevelopment Authority removed (vote not recorded)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting at 8:17 p.m. (motion by Chair Stock, seconded by Hazard, passed)

Park Commission

The Park Commission is meeting to conduct preparation for a Town Park hearing. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Town Park Hearing Prep

Assessors

The Hopedale Board of Assessors will meet on April 11, 2025, to approve minutes from the March 14 regular and executive sessions, review and sign the 2025-02 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant, as well as the 2025-40A Recommit version. They will also review the monthly list of motor vehicle excise abatements for March 2025 and discuss future meeting dates. The board will then enter executive session under Purpose 7 to review and process FY25 personal exemptions.

• Review and sign the 2025-02 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant
• Review and sign the 2025-40A Recommit of Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant
• Review monthly list of motor vehicle excise abatements for March 2025
• Approve minutes of March 14, 2025, regular meeting and executive session
• Enter executive session to process FY25 personal exemptions

Administrator - Select Board

The Hopedale Select Board is meeting to enter executive session under state law for litigation strategy and to comply with a privacy statute. No public discussion items are listed; the meeting then adjourns.

• Executive session pursuant to G.L. c.30A, §21, Purposes 3 and 7 for litigation strategy and privacy compliance

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Hopedale Water & Sewer Commission will meet to vote on surplus land and discuss several operational items. They will consider retaining earnings and reviewing rates for water and sewer services. Updates on PFAS treatment at the water treatment plant and copper results from the wastewater plant are also on the agenda. The commission will address sludge hauling rate increases and a cost estimate for a sludge thickener.

• Vote on surplus land designation
• Review of retained earnings and potential rate adjustments for water and sewer
• Discussion of sludge hauling rate increase
• Cost estimate for sludge thickener project
• PFAS update at the water treatment plant

The commissioners unanimously approved the minutes from the March 13, 2025 meeting. A motion to adjourn the April 10 meeting was also passed unanimously. No other actions were formally approved, denied, or tabled.

• Approved March 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:03 PM (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Hopedale Board of Health will hold a regular meeting with a single discussion item: the FY2026 budget, in conjunction with the Finance Committee. No votes or other actions are listed on the agenda. The meeting is otherwise procedural.

• Discussion of FY2026 Budget with Finance Committee

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings to consider amendments to zoning bylaws regarding floodplain maps and the administration of zoning violations and fines. The board will also review site plan and ANR plan applications.

• Public hearing on Zoning Bylaw Section 14 (floodplain maps per DCR and FEMA)
• Public hearing on Zoning Bylaw Section 10 (administration of zoning violations and fines)
• ANR Plan Endorsement request for 328 & 332 South Main Street
• Site Plan Approval application for 50 Plain Street

The board unanimously approved and recommended the amendment to Section 10 of the Zoning Bylaws to increase daily fines for violations to $300. It also unanimously accepted the proposed floodplain map amendments to Section 14 for recommendation at the May 20 town meeting. The board endorsed the ANR plan for 328 & 332 South Main Street and postponed the site‑plan hearing for 50 Plain Street to May 7, 2025. Minutes from the February 5, 2025 meeting were approved and the session was adjourned.

• Approved recommendation of Section 14 floodplain map amendments (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Section 10 raising fines to $300 per day (unanimous)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 328 & 332 South Main Street (unanimous)
• Continued site‑plan hearing for 50 Plain Street to May 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 5, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:12 pm (unanimous)

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will discuss and complete a performance evaluation for Town Administrator Mitch. The evaluation covers 10 categories including financial management, personnel management, and organizational leadership. An overall assessment notes strong financial performance and suggests adjusting his approach in personnel matters.

• Review of Town Administrator performance evaluation form with 10 rated categories and an overall assessment comment

The Select Board approved the April meeting minutes and an extension of the Asphalt Purchasing Consortium contract. It also approved support for upcoming patriotic events and shortened the town election hours on May 13. The board awarded the Town Park Retaining Wall contract to Leones Landscaping Inc. and voted to proceed with MGL 32B chapters 21‑23 for a health‑insurance deductible change. The meeting was adjourned at 7:51 p.m.

• Approved April meeting minutes (1/13/2025‑2/24/2025) (3‑aye)
• Approved Asphalt Purchasing Consortium contract extension (3‑aye)
• Approved support for Mr. Beder’s Memorial Day Parade & Flag Day events (3‑aye)
• Approved shortening Town Election hours to 12:00‑20:00 on May 13, 2025 (3‑aye)
• Awarded Town Park Retaining Wall contract to Leones Landscaping Inc. (no vote recorded)
• Approved moving forward with MGL 32B §§21‑23 for health‑insurance deductible change (no vote tally)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:51 p.m. (3‑aye)

Historical Commission

The Hopedale Historical Commission will review updates on ongoing projects, including digitization of Draper Company records, donation of looms, and a town-wide historical resources identification project. They will also plan to attend a joint meeting with the Select Board and Parks on April 14 to discuss plans for the Town Park project. Old minutes from 2022–2025 and a request to purchase a new printer/scanner/copier will be voted on.

• Joint meeting with Select Board and Parks on April 14 for Town Park project planning
• New commissioner Nicole Zhang sworn in for a three-year term
• Request to purchase a new printer/scanner/copier for the Little Red Shop Museum
• Update on donation of remaining looms to North Carolina Textile Museum
• Digitization of Draper Company/Draper Corporation Cotton Chats update

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will vote on implementing G.L. c. 32B Sections 21-23, which pertains to municipal health insurance. The board will also hold an executive session to discuss bargaining strategy with the Hopedale Public Employee Committee. No other substantive decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Vote to implement G.L. c. 32B Sections 21-23 concerning health insurance
• Executive session for negotiations with Hopedale Public Employee Committee
• Public comment period for items not on the agenda

Finance Committee

The Hopedale Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting with the School Committee to discuss the FY2026 budget and an updated estimate for the healthcare line item. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda is limited to discussion items.

• Joint discussion of FY2026 budget with School Committee
• Discussion of updated healthcare line item estimate for FY2026

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee is holding a joint meeting with the Finance Committee on April 2, 2025, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 Town Budget. The meeting will be held in person and remotely. This is a discussion-only item; no votes are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of Fiscal Year 2026 Town Budget

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The trustees voted to accept the minutes from the March 4, 2025 meeting. They then voted to adjourn the April 1, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions or approvals were recorded.

• Accepted March 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Notice of Intent for construction of a single-family home at 134 Mill Street. The board will also approve minutes from December 17, 2024 and March 18, 2025.

• Public hearing for Notice of Intent: single-family home at 134 Mill Street
• Approval of minutes from December 17, 2024
• Approval of minutes from March 18, 2025

The Conservation Commission voted to continue the public hearing for the proposed single‑family home at 134 Mill Street to April 15, 2025 at 6:30 pm, with the applicant’s agreement. The motion was made by David Guglielmi, seconded by Bernie Stock, and passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:31 pm.

• Continued public hearing for 134 Mill St to April 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:31 pm (unanimous)

School Committee

The School Committee will vote on monthly financial reports, budget transfers, and several donations totaling nearly $38,000, including a $22,700 furniture donation from Tyler Technologies. They will also discuss the FY26 budget overview, hold second readings of policies, and vote on an out-of-state overnight field trip and a public hearing for the school budget. The agenda includes recognition of the School Resource Officer and updates on town elections and the May 20 Town Meeting.

• Vote on Revised Warrant Signing Schedule for December 2024 - June 2025 (roll call vote required)
• Accept $22,700 furniture donation from Tyler Technologies
• Accept $10,000 DESE grant for Family Engagement and Training
• Accept $3,200 from State Treasurer’s Financial Education Innovation Fund for the 2025 FinFit Fair
• Approval of out-of-state overnight field trip

Road Commissioners

The Board of Road Commissioners will conduct interviews for an open equipment operator position. No other substantive business is on the agenda beyond the call to order and adjournment.

• Interviews for the open equipment operator position

Community Preservation Committee

The Hopedale Community Preservation Committee will meet to present the Community Preservation Plan and its application process, followed by questions and input from the community. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is informational and public-facing.

• Presentation of the Community Preservation Plan
• Overview of the application process for community preservation funds
• Public question-and-answer session

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board is managing town infrastructure repairs, including a failing Town Hall heating system and a high school roof project. The board is also approving annual business licenses and allocating ARPA funds for health insurance and fire station repairs.

• Special election set for February 11, 2025, regarding debt exclusion for the high school roof
• ARPA funding approved: $318,000 for health insurance supplement and $250,000 for fire station repairs
• Town Hall heating system repairs have exceeded $150,000 since December 2023
• Approval of National Grid proposal to relocate 2 utility poles on Plain Street
• Cease and desist authorized for 201 Hopedale Street regarding over 30 unregistered vehicles

The Select Board approved several items, including entering executive session to discuss ongoing lawsuits. It accepted a $4,000 donation from Hopedale Friends of Elders, approved a one‑day liquor license for the Blackstone Valley Curling Club, and approved an accountant departmental transfer request. The board also accepted the resignations of On‑Call Firefighter Murphy and SRO Mario Sousa Jr. All motions passed unanimously (3‑0).

• Approved entry into executive session for litigation discussion (3-0)
• Approved minutes from 10/28/24, 12/9/24, 12/23/24 (3-0)
• Accepted $4,000 donation from Hopedale Friends of Elders (3-0)
• Accepted resignation of On‑Call Firefighter Murphy effective 3/10/25 (3-0)
• Accepted resignation of SRO Mario Sousa Jr. effective 4/1/25 (3-0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Blackstone Valley Curling Club (3-0)
• Approved accountant departmental transfer request (3-0)
• Approved discussion of potential impact on 15th Annual Larry Olsen 5K (3-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss the FY2026 budget and the Recycle Center schedule. Action items include approving MHOA Tobacco Control Program inspectors and appointing an Inspector of Animals. Informational items cover larval mosquito control and an expenditure ledger.

• FY2026 budget discussion
• Recycle Center schedule discussion
• Approval of MHOA Tobacco Control Program Technical Assistance as inspectors
• Appointment of Inspector of Animals
• Commencement of larval mosquito control announcement

The board approved the February 27, 2025 meeting minutes, authorized the Massachusetts Health Officers Association as inspectors, and appointed Kevin Sullivan as the town’s Inspector of Animals. It also set the recycle center’s operating season from April 5 to October 25, open Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m.–12 p.m. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved February 27, 2025 meeting minutes (all voted in favor)
• Approved Massachusetts Health Officers Association as inspectors (all voted in favor)
• Appointed Kevin Sullivan as Inspector of Animals (all voted in favor)
• Set recycle center schedule: April 5–Oct 25, Sat & Sun 9 a.m.–12 p.m. (consensus)
• Scheduled meeting with Finance Committee to review FY 2026 budget (consensus)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:41 p.m. (all voted in favor)

Council on Aging Board

The Council on Aging Board will meet to discuss the FY’26 budget and the loss of the outreach office in the fire station. The board will also review the ongoing accounts audit and strategic planning. Other items include the Director's position for FY'26 and senior center operational hours.

• FY’26 Budget and Annual Town Meeting May 2025
• Loss of Outreach Office in Fire Station
• Ongoing COA Accounts Audit
• Director’s Position FY’26
• MWRTA Van Discussion

The board accepted the February meeting minutes. It unanimously approved a revised weekly schedule for the senior center, setting specific opening times for each weekday. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Accepted February minutes (unanimous)
• Approved senior center operational hours: Mon 8:30‑4, Tue 8:30‑5, Wed‑Thu 8:30‑4, Fri 8:30‑12 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Hopedale Conservation Commission will consider a Notice of Intent property at 134 Mill Street under old business. The board also plans to approve meeting minutes from December 17, 2024 and February 18, 2025.

• Notice of Intent for 134 Mill Street
• Approval of minutes from December 17, 2024 and February 18, 2025

The Hopedale Conservation Commission held a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for a single-family home at 134 Mill Street. The applicant, Peter Lavoie of D&L Design Group, presented plans that avoid filling wetlands and include recharge areas for roof runoff. The Commission discussed the need for a site visit and the applicant agreed to flag the buffer zone. Public comments raised concerns about an existing 12-inch pipe that drains onto a neighbor's property, with no easement recorded. No final decision was made on the Notice of Intent; the Commission approved the February 18, 2025 meeting minutes and adjourned.

• Approved February 18, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Passed over approval of December 17, 2024 minutes
• Heard Notice of Intent for 134 Mill Street (no vote taken)
• Adjourned at 6:35 pm (unanimous)

Administrator - Select Board

The agenda consists solely of an executive session to discuss the discipline or dismissal of a public officer, employee, or staff member, followed by adjournment. No public discussion items are scheduled.

• Executive session under G.L. c. 30A, s. 21(a)(1) for personnel discipline or dismissal

Hopedale Cultural Council

The Hopedale Cultural Council is meeting to discuss old business, approve previous minutes, and plan two major summer events: the 2025 band concert series (six dates from June 18 to July 30 with specific performers) and the Day in the Park event (vendors, art show, entertainment, sponsors, volunteers, and rentals). No final decisions or appropriations are recorded; these are planning discussions.

• Schedule of six band concerts from June 18 to July 30, including performers DJMike, Carolyn Rae and the Tumors, Fantasy Big Band, Elastic Five, and The Pub Kings
• Planning for Day in the Park 2025, including vendor applications, art show, entertainment, and equipment rentals (tent, tables, chairs, porta-john, shuttle bus)
• Discussion of food trucks and HCC concessions for the band concert series
• Approval of November 18, 2024 meeting minutes

The Hopedale Cultural Council approved minutes and treasurer's report, and set the summer concert schedule and Day in the Park plans. They voted to increase the HCC scholarship to $350. The council discussed the potential closure of the town park for renovations and considered moving events to the Community House.

• Approved November 18, 2024 minutes
• Approved Treasurer's Report
• Set summer concert schedule (June 18 - July 23)
• Voted to increase HCC scholarship to $350
• Discussed moving events to Hopedale Community House due to possible park closure
• Planned Day in the Park for September 20, 2025 with vendor and art show details

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve minutes from several previous meetings. The committee is also planning for a public hearing scheduled for March 25.

• Approval of minutes from June 17, 2024, July 15, August 19, October 28, December, and January
• Planning for the March 25 public hearing

The Conservation Commission held a continuation hearing for a Notice of Intent for 4 Overdale Parkway Lot 2, scheduling a site visit for March 20. The commission also noted a new Notice of Intent for Lot 4 King's Way, with a hearing planned for April 6. No final decisions were made; minutes from the previous meeting were passed over.

• Continued hearing for 4 Overdale Parkway Lot 2; site visit scheduled for March 20
• Scheduled hearing for NOI Lot 4 King's Way for April 6, 2026
• Passed over approval of February 24, 2026 minutes

Assessors

The Hopedale Board of Assessors will meet to approve minutes, receive a status update from the principal assessor, and review the monthly list of motor vehicle excise abatements for February 2025. They will also review annual 3ABC filings and discuss future meeting dates. The board will then enter executive session to review and process FY25 personal exemptions.

• Monthly list of abatements for motor vehicle excise (February 2025) for review and signature
• Annual 3ABC filings to be reviewed
• Executive session for FY25 personal exemptions under MGL Ch. 59
• Approval of minutes from February 14, 2025 regular meeting and executive session

The Board of Assessors approved the February 14, 2025 regular and executive session minutes unanimously. They reviewed and signed the monthly motor vehicle excise abatement list for February 2025, with Chair Ellen Murphy recusing herself due to a conflict of interest. The board also reviewed annual 3ABC filings and agreed to hold the next meeting on April 11, 2025.

• Approved February 14, 2025 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved February 14, 2025 executive session minutes (unanimous)
• Signed monthly motor vehicle excise abatement list for February 2025 (no vote; Chair recused)
• Agreed to next meeting date of April 11, 2025
• Entered executive session to discuss confidential abatements and exemptions (unanimous)
• Adjourned executive session at 12:49 pm (unanimous)

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Hopedale Water & Sewer Commission will meet on March 13, 2025, to discuss new business including filter media and cross-connection testing quotes, old business such as copper issues at the wastewater treatment plant, a budget and rate review, and an update on the sludge hauling contract. The meeting will also include a joint session with the Finance Committee at 7:00 PM. Consent items include approving minutes from February 13, 2025.

• New business: filter media discussion
• New business: cross connections testers quote
• Old business: copper issues at WWTP
• Old business: budgets/retained earnings and rate review
• Old business: sludge hauling contract update

The Hopedale Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners met on March 13, 2025, and approved the minutes from the February 13 meeting. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the board discussed filter media replacement, cross connection testing contracts, copper testing failures at the wastewater plant, and budget status. The board also discussed the sludge hauling contract, noting the previous bid was denied and they will proceed with the initial contract.

• Approved minutes of February 13, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed filter media issue; third filter to be replaced tomorrow
• Discussed cross connection testing; new contract needed by May
• Discussed copper testing failures at WWTP; will test in-house
• Discussed budgets; rate discussion scheduled for next meeting
• Denied last sludge hauling bid; moving forward with initial contract

Finance Committee

The Hopedale Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting with the Water and Sewer Commission to discuss the FY2026 budget. They will also review an updated healthcare line item estimate for FY26 and consider McKinney-Vento Homeless Transportation Receipts. The meeting is remote and in-person, with public comment allowed per the chair's directions.

• FY2026 budget discussion with Water and Sewer Commission
• Discussion of updated healthcare line item estimate for FY26
• McKinney-Vento Homeless Transportation Receipts
• Joint meeting held in Draper Room and via Zoom
• Next meeting to be scheduled

Road Commissioners

The Hopedale Board of Road Commissioners is holding a regular meeting with standard procedural items. No specific decisions or new business items are listed; the agenda includes approval of prior minutes, a budget update, and a roadway maintenance update. The meeting is largely routine and administrative.

• Approval of February 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Budget-to-date review
• Roadway and maintenance updates

The Board of Road Commissioners approved the budget review to date, noting some snow accounts are negative but overall budget is good. They also accepted the resignation of staff member Jared P. and agreed on the next paving project for Mill Street and Mantoni Drive.

• Approved meeting minutes of February 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved budget review to date (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Jared P. (unanimous)
• Agreed on next paving project: Mill Street from Green Street to Mendon Town Line, including Mantoni Drive

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will open the Annual Town Meeting Warrant, receive an FY26 budget update, and continue discussions on Town Hall, South Main Street land, and town-owned properties. They will also accept two call firefighter resignations and consider an updated Host Community Agreement with High Hopes LLC. An executive session is planned for personnel matters.

• Resignations of call firefighters Samantha Blanchette and Andre Aureliano
• Continued Town Hall discussion
• FY26 Budget Update
• Open Annual Town Meeting Warrant
• Updated Host Community Agreement (HCA) with High Hopes LLC

The Select Board voted 2-1 to deny a request from residents of 167 South Main Street to place 6 acres of their property into a Conservation Restriction. The board also accepted resignations from two on-call firefighters, approved the Baseball Opening Day Parade and Blue Raider 5K, and opened the Annual Town Meeting warrant. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were discussed but not voted on.

• Approved meeting minutes of 7/01/2024, 7/29/2024, 8/22/2024 (3-0)
• Accepted resignations of On-Call FF Blanchette and On-Call FF Aureliano (3-0)
• Denied Conservation Restriction request for 167 South Main Street (2-1)
• Approved Hopedale Baseball Opening Day Parade on April 26, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved Blue Raider 5K on May 10, 2025 (3-0)
• Opened Annual Town Meeting warrant from March 10 to April 14, 2025 (3-0)
• Placed Town Hall and Town Park articles on the warrant (3-0)

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will hold a hybrid meeting on March 7, 2025. Agenda items include approval of January 16 minutes, announcements such as a usage request for the Annual Day in the Park and purchase of dirt/topsoil for Town Park, and review of action items including Phillips Field irrigation quotes, culvert updates, rock wall project, beaver dam, and concrete pad for bike rack. The board will also continue budget discussions ahead of a meeting with the Finance Committee.

• Approval of minutes from Jan 16, 2025
• HCC usage request for the Annual Day in the Park
• Purchase of dirt/topsoil for Town Park
• Phillips Field irrigation updates – board needed to obtain three quotes
• Continue budget discussions ahead of meeting with FinCom

The Hopedale Park Commission approved a motion to purchase dirt for the Town Park baseball field and to supplement other fields around town, with delivery to Draper Field. Members also discussed summer program staffing, beaver dam removal, and the Rock Wall bid process. No public comment was received.

• Approved the HCC usage request for the annual Day in the Park event
• Approved a motion to purchase dirt for Town Park and other fields, with delivery to Draper Field
• Discussed hiring staff for the Summer Park program, possibly reducing to 5 employees and using a 6th to help Steve Bosma
• Discussed plans to trap beavers and remove a dam in late March/early April with help from ConCom and Water Sewer Commission
• Discussed setting up a meeting with FinCom about the Park Commission budget before Annual Town Meeting
• Discussed ordering new bases for Varsity Softball and Baseball teams
• Noted that bids for the Rock Wall project are due by March 14th
• Adjourned the meeting by motion

Historical Commission

The Hopedale Historical Commission meets to review updates on museum projects including a $6,000 condition assessment contract already signed, and progress on digitizing Draper Company materials. New business includes considering a temporary exhibit on African American laborers in the Blackstone Valley and a proposal from an Eagle Scout candidate to create a pollinator garden at the Little Red Shop Museum. The commission also notes the appointment of a new member, Nicole Zhang, to the commission.

• $6,000 contract signed with Tighe and Bond for condition assessment of Little Red Shop Museum
• Nicole Zhang appointed to Historical Commission by Select Board for three-year term
• Proposal to host 'Laboring For Freedom' temporary exhibit on African American laborers
• Eagle Scout candidate Cameron McDonald proposes pollinator (butterfly) garden at LRSM
• Digitization of Draper Company 'Cotton Chats' metadata sheets and finding aid completed

Housing Authority

The Hopedale Housing Authority will hold its regular monthly board meeting on March 6, 2025. The agenda includes approval of minutes and bills, a fee accountant report, and an executive director's report covering correspondence and the vacancy/wait list. Public comments will be taken. This is a procedural meeting with no major decisions expected.

• Approval of minutes from February 13, 2025 regular meeting
• Approval of bills from February 13 to March 13, 2025
• Fee accountant balance statement for January 31, 2025
• Executive director's report on correspondence and vacancy/wait list
• Next meeting scheduled for April 10, 2025

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will approve February meeting minutes, receive the director's report covering HVAC updates, painting, the FY26 budget, the Statue of Hope, storage room, and a loan form for historical material. They will also review the budget and hear an update from the Friends of the Hopedale Library. Public participation is invited in person or via Zoom.

• Director's report includes HVAC updates and painting projects at the library
• Review of FY26 budget
• Update on Statue of Hope and storage room
• Discussion of loan form for historical materials
• Youth Services updates on Summer Reading and Read Across America

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees unanimously approved a policy prohibiting the removal of historical materials from the property, allowing them to be signed out for viewing only within the library. The board also accepted the February minutes and the director's report, and discussed facility updates, budget status, and programming.

• Approved policy: no historical materials can be removed from the property (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of February 4, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted Director's Report as submitted

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will convene only to enter an executive session to discuss strategy on three pending lawsuits, then adjourn immediately. No public business or votes are scheduled.

• Executive session under M.G.L. c.30A, §21(a)(3) for litigation strategy in Town of Hopedale v. Jon Delli Priscoli, Reilly v. Town of Hopedale, and Grafton & Upton Railroad v. Town of Hopedale
• No regular agenda items; meeting consists solely of executive session and adjournment

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee will vote on monthly financial reports and budget transfers, discuss the FY26 budget status, and hold a first reading of the ADF Wellness Policy. A joint meeting with the Board of Selectmen is scheduled to appoint a new committee member. Other agenda items include a roofing project update, a MSBA consultant presentation, and discussions on kindergarten registration and spring coaching appointments.

• Vote on monthly accounts payable and payroll warrants
• First reading of Policy ADF: Wellness
• Appointment of School Committee member for vacant seat (joint with Board of Selectmen)
• Presentation from MSBA consultant James Riefstahl
• Discussion on need for March 18th budget workshop

Finance Committee

The Hopedale Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting with the Board of Health to discuss the FY2026 budget and an updated new growth estimate. The committee will also consider approval of minutes from its February 6 regular meeting. No votes on specific appropriations or contracts are scheduled.

• Joint FY2026 budget discussion with Board of Health
• Discussion of updated new growth estimate for FY26
• Approval of February 6, 2025 regular meeting minutes

Board of Health

The Hopedale Board of Health will hold a regular meeting and then a joint meeting with the Finance Committee to discuss the FY 2026 budget. The agenda includes approval of minutes, reports, and annual reports, but the main discussion item is the upcoming fiscal year budget.

• Discussion of FY 2026 Budget
• Joint meeting with Finance Committee for budget discussion
• Approval of minutes from January 16, 2025
• Board of Health Annual Report: July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024
• Salmon Home Care Annual Report: January 1 – December 31, 2024

Council on Aging Board

The Council on Aging Board will meet to approve January 2025 minutes, receive a director’s report, and discuss several old business items including the FY’26 budget, an ongoing accounts audit, strategic planning, the MWRTA van service, a new newsletter format, and AARP tax clinics. New business covers the director’s March vacation and the March meeting date. The agenda is largely administrative and procedural, with no major policy decisions or financial votes specified.

• FY’26 Budget discussion
• Ongoing COA Accounts Audit
• Strategic Plan / Transition Planning Work
• MWRTA Van Discussion
• AARP Tax Clinics update

The Hopedale Council on Aging board met and accepted the January minutes. The director reported on outreach, budget, and transportation, noting a pending MWRTA grant decision expected in 4-5 weeks. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational.

• Accepted January meeting minutes
• Noted director's vacation dates (Mar 24-28, May 13-21)
• Discussed van driver shortage and alternatives
• Acknowledged MWRTA grant application for transportation

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve multiple sets of minutes from 2024 and early 2025, plan a public hearing scheduled for March 18, 2025, and discuss changing the Conflict of Interest by-law.

• Planning public hearing for March 18, 2025
• Discussion of changing Conflict of Interest by-law
• Approval of minutes from June 17, July 15, August 19, October 28, November, December, and January meetings

Administrator - Select Board

The Hopedale Select Board will hold a hybrid meeting on February 24, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. Key items include a discussion of the FY26 budget, setting the Annual Town Meeting for May 20, 2025, and a vote on a Memorandum of Agreement with the Massachusetts Health Officers Association for a tobacco control program. The board will also discuss town hall upgrades, retiree benefits rules, and a beaver dam issue.

• FY26 Budget Update discussion
• Vote to sign Memorandum of Agreement with MHOA for tobacco control program (Health Agent Bill Fisher in attendance)
• Annual Town Meeting set for May 20, 2025
• Town Hall Discussion
• Rules and Regulations regarding Retiree Benefits

The Select Board voted unanimously to allow the Town Administrator to use earmarked ARPA funds for an official appraisal and tax title search of the Town Hall, as part of next steps to decide whether to repair or dispose of the building. The board also approved signing a Memorandum of Agreement with the Massachusetts Health Officers Association for free tobacco compliance checks. The annual town meeting was set for May 20, 2025. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were passed over or discussed only.

• Approved use of ARPA funds for Town Hall appraisal and title search (3-0)
• Approved signing MOU with MHOA for tobacco control program (3-0)
• Set Annual Town Meeting for May 20, 2025

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will meet to discuss budget preparations ahead of a meeting with the Finance Committee. Other items include updates on Phillips Field irrigation (need for three quotes), the rock wall at Town Park, and a beaver dam follow-up with the Conservation Commission. The commission will also consider a usage request for the Annual Day in the Park and summer program plans.

• Budget discussions ahead of meeting with FinCom
• Phillips Field irrigation – board needs to obtain three quotes
• Rock Wall at Town Park – update on project start date
• Beaver dam follow-up – recap joint meeting with ConCom
• Summer Program conversation and application process

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Hopedale Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to discuss a preliminary draft for implementing daily fines for zoning violations. The board may take a vote on this matter.

• Discussion and potential vote on implementing daily fines for zoning violations

The Hopedale Zoning Board of Appeals met on February 19, 2025, and approved the minutes from November 20, 2024. The board discussed proposed changes to Section 10 of the Zoning Bylaws regarding zoning violations and fines, and agreed to send the draft to the Planning Board for recommendations before it could be presented as a warrant article at a future town meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of November 20, 2024 (unanimous)
• Agreed to send proposed Section 10 zoning bylaw changes to Planning Board for review

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss the beaver dam in Hopedale Pond. The board will also vote on an invoice for annual dues to the MA Assoc. Of Conservation Commissions.

• Discussion regarding the beaver dam in Hopedale Pond
• Vote on $475.00 invoice for MA Assoc. Of Conservation Commissions annual dues

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to move forward with a plan to address beaver dam issues in Hopedale Pond, which are impacting water levels and the public water supply. The plan includes trapping beavers (estimated at $300-$500 per beaver) and dismantling the dam in April with help from Central Mass Mosquito Control. The Commission also approved a $475 invoice for MACC dues.

• Approved beaver dam action plan including trapping and dam removal (unanimous)
• Approved $475 invoice for MA Assoc. of Conservation Commissions dues (unanimous)

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will hold a joint meeting with the Conservation Commission to discuss the beaver dam near the Rustic Bridge. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda lists only a discussion item and standard procedural matters.

• Discussion of beaver dam near the Rustic Bridge

Assessors

The Hopedale Board of Assessors will meet for a routine procedural session to approve prior meeting minutes, review departmental bills, and sign motor vehicle excise warrants for 2024 and 2025. They will also discuss abatements and exemptions in executive session. No major policy decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from January 10, 2025 regular meeting and executive session
• Review and sign 2024-07 and 2025-07 Motor Vehicle Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant
• Review and sign 2025-01 Motor Vehicle Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant
• Review and sign monthly list of motor vehicle abatements for January 2025
• Executive session to discuss confidential abatements and exemptions (MGL c.59)

The Board of Assessors approved the regular and executive session minutes from January 10, 2025, unanimously. They reviewed and signed motor vehicle and trailer excise notices and warrants for 2024-07, 2025-07, and 2025-01, as well as the January 2025 abatement list, without votes. The board agreed to meet next on March 14, 2025, and entered executive session to discuss confidential abatements and exemptions.

• Approved regular meeting minutes from January 10, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved executive session minutes from January 10, 2025 (unanimous)
• Signed 2024-07 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant (no vote)
• Signed 2025-07 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant (no vote)
• Signed 2025-01 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Notice of Commitment and Warrant (no vote)
• Signed monthly list of motor vehicle excise abatements for January 2025 (no vote)
• Agreed to next meeting date: March 14, 2025
• Entered executive session to discuss FY25 personal exemptions and abatements (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Hopedale Finance Committee will hear an update on insurance rates and their impact on the FY2026 budget, and continue working on the FY2026 budget workbook and balance. No votes or final decisions are listed; the meeting is for discussion only.

• Update on insurance rates and FY2026 budget implications
• Continued discussion of FY2026 budget workbook and balance

Housing Authority

This is a regular monthly meeting of the Hopedale Housing Authority with items limited to administrative approvals and reports. The board will vote on minutes from January and bills from the past month, and receive financial statements and an executive director's update. No new policies, contracts, or projects are on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from January 9, 2025 regular meeting
• Approval of bills from January 9 to February 13, 2025
• Review of fee accountant reports including balance statement and quarterly/modernization reports ending December 31, 2024
• Executive Director's report covering correspondence and vacancy/wait list review

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Hopedale Water & Sewer Commission will meet to discuss operational updates and make decisions. New business includes an update on the PFAS addition project and awarding a sludge hauling contract. Old business includes a budget and rate review, asset management update, and copper exceedances at the wastewater treatment plant. The commission will also hear a manager's report and take public comment.

• Update on PCO's PFAS addition project
• Award sludge hauling contract
• Water table, drought status, and Greene Street pump test
• Copper exceedances at the wastewater treatment plant
• Budget retained earnings and rate review

The Board approved a change order for Calgon Media for the PFAS filtration system at about $5,000, after denying a $7,000 heating/removal change order (completed in-house for ~$1,000) and a rock/ledge removal change order. A second change order for ground wires (~$10,000) was not approved. The Board also discussed sludge hauling options, drought conditions, and employee reviews, but took no other formal votes.

• Approved Calgon Media change order for PFAS filtration (~$5,000)
• Denied $7,000 heating/removal change order (completed in-house for ~$1,000)
• Denied rock/ledge removal change order
• Did not approve ground wires change order (~$10,000)
• Approved minutes of January 9, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Road Commissioners

The Board of Road Commissioners will hold a routine meeting with no major decisions or public hearings listed. Agenda items include approval of January 8, 2025 minutes, updates on the budget-to-date and roadway/maintenance, and discussion of new and old business.

• Approve minutes of January 8, 2025 meeting
• Review of budget-to-date for road operations
• Update on roadway and maintenance activities
• New business (unspecified)
• Old business carried over from previous meeting

The Hopedale Board of Road Commissioners approved the January 8, 2025 meeting minutes and the budget as reported to date, both unanimously. They decided to retain the Worcester County Highway Association membership but not join the Massachusetts Highway Association, except for Highway Superintendent Stan Golenski who will join both. The meeting was adjourned at 5:22 PM.

• Approved January 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved budget as reported to date (unanimous)
• Decided to keep Worcester County Highway Association membership, not join Massachusetts Highway Association (except Stan Golenski joins both)

Town Clerk

At the February 11, 2025 Special Town Election, Hopedale voters approved a Proposition 2½ debt exclusion to fund a new roof on the Junior-Senior High School. The measure passed 234 to 133, with 367 ballots cast (8.32% turnout). The bond was previously approved at the November 26, 2024 Special Town Meeting.

• Approved Prop 2½ exemption for high school roof bond (234-133)

Town Clerk

The Town of Hopedale will hold a Special Town Meeting to determine if the Select Board is authorized to acquire two parcels of land. Voters will also decide on the appropriation of funds and how to raise that money.

• Proposed acquisition of 104 Mendon Street (Assessor's parcel ID 11-8-0)
• Proposed acquisition of 143 Hopedale Street (Assessor's parcel ID 11-12-0)

The Special Town Meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM on February 11, 2025, but no quorum was met. A motion to dissolve the warrant was made, seconded, and passed unanimously, and the meeting was dissolved at 7:01 PM. No substantive decisions were made.

• Motion to dissolve the warrant passed unanimously

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on FMC Ice Sports' application for a new All Alcohol License at 121 Plain Street. Due to proximity to Kingdom Hall at 120 Plain Street, the board must determine whether the premises are not detrimental to the church's spiritual activities under state law. The applicant has submitted all required paperwork and passed inspections.

• Public hearing for a new All Alcohol License at Blackstone Valley Ice Plex (121 Plain Street)
• Required determination under MGL Chp 138 Sec 16C due to location within 500 feet of Kingdom Hall

The Select Board voted unanimously to deny an alcohol license for the Blackstone Valley Iceplex, citing concerns about serving liquor at a facility hosting MIAA games. The board also approved meeting minutes, accepted a $2,000 donation, and canceled a special town meeting due to unresolved property price negotiations.

• Denied alcohol license for Blackstone Valley Iceplex (3-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 5/13/2024, 5/28/2024, 6/10/2024, 6/24/2024 with one edit (3-0)
• Accepted $2,000 donation from Hopedale Friends of Elders Inc. to Council on Aging (3-0)
• Canceled special town meeting for property purchase due to price disagreement
• Placed School Committee vacancy on election warrant for special election (3-0)
• Tabled vote on MHOA tobacco control program agreement

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to conduct an initial review of specific sections of the FY26 budget book. The body will also discuss estimated revenues and the timeline for subsequent budget meetings.

• Initial review of FY26 budget book sections 100, 700, and 800
• Update on estimated revenues
• Discussion of budget timeline and future meetings
• Approval of minutes from October 10, October 24, October 30, November 14, and January 16

Historical Commission

The Hopedale Historical Commission will meet to discuss updates on ongoing projects, including digitization of Draper Company materials and volunteer programs. New business includes considering hosting a temporary exhibit on African American history in the Blackstone Valley and an Eagle Scout proposal for a pollinator garden at the Little Red Shop Museum. The meeting also covers approval of past minutes, a treasurer's report, and several old business items with no updates.

• Consideration of hosting 'Laboring For Freedom: African Americans in the Blackstone River Valley' temporary exhibit
• Eagle Scout candidate Cameron McDonald proposes creating a pollinator garden at the Little Red Shop Museum
• $1,000 earmarked by Hopedale Women's History Project for trip to Cornell's Kheel Center for Draper glass negative digitization
• Nicole Zhang appointed to Historical Commission for three-year term by Select Board on January 27
• Authorization for electrician Dan Soares to install outdoor lighting at the Little Red Shop Museum

Planning Board

The Hopedale Planning Board will hold a public hearing on an application for a site plan modification at 2 Condon Way. The board will also review and approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Application for Site Plan Modification at 2 Condon Way

The Planning Board closed the continuation hearing and unanimously approved the site plan modification for 2 Condon Way, ratifying and reaffirming the unmodified aspects of the June 2024 Site Plan Approval. The decision was based on a Graves Engineering review finding no issues and a Water and Sewer Department letter with service requirements. The board also approved the minutes of January 15, 2025.

• Closed continuation hearing for site plan modification at 2 Condon Way (unanimous)
• Approved site plan modification for 2 Condon Way, ratifying June 2024 Site Plan Approval (5-0)
• Granted authorization to sign the decision on behalf of the Planning Board (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 15, 2025 (unanimous)

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee will meet to vote on financial items including monthly warrants and a $13,000 DESE MyCAP grant. They will also accept a resignation from a current member and discuss the replacement process. Other business includes second readings of policies on non-custodial parents' rights and public gifts, a budget update, and votes on the 2025-2026 school calendar and senior last day.

• Vote on monthly accounts payable and payroll warrants
• Vote to approve $13,000 DESE MyCAP grant
• Acceptance of resignation and discussion of replacement
• Second reading of policies KBBA (non-custodial parents' rights) and KCD (public gifts)
• Vote on 2025-2026 school year calendar

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Bancroft Memorial Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve January meeting minutes, receive the director's report covering staff reviews, annual report, HVAC and roofing updates, painting projects, and youth services updates. The board will also review the budget and hear an update from the Friends of the Hopedale Library. No votes on contracts or ordinances are scheduled; the agenda consists of routine administrative and oversight items.

• Approval of January 9, 2025 meeting minutes
• Six-month performance reviews for Director and Tech Services positions
• Updates on HVAC, roofing, painting, and Trustee Room projects
• Budget review
• Friends of the Hopedale Library update by Chris Seaver

The Board of Library Trustees approved the January minutes and the director's report, and reviewed and approved the annual report due to Town Hall. They discussed the FY25 budget, noting a needed line transfer for Professional/Technical, and the FY26 budget, which includes $7k for Hope Statue maintenance after ARPA funds expire. No formal votes were recorded on the budget items.

• Approved January 9, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted director's report as submitted
• Approved annual report for Town Hall submission
• Discussed FY25 budget line transfer for Professional/Technical (no vote)
• Discussed FY26 budget with $7k for Hope Statue (no vote)

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will discuss opening and closing the warrant for a Special Town Meeting, set a date, and review the FY26 budget. Other items include appointing two constables, accepting a donation from Havens Autobody to the police, a property conversation on Hopedale Street, and a letter of support for conservation. The board will also enter executive session to discuss litigation and collective bargaining.

• Appointment of two constables: Sergeant Steven Mahan and Patrolman Barry Costello
• Accept donation from Havens Autobody to Hopedale Police Department
• Set Special Town Meeting date and open/close warrant
• Property conversation on Hopedale Street
• Letter of Support for Conservation

The Select Board voted unanimously to authorize Town Administrator Mitchell Ruscitti to engage with sellers of two parcels at Hopedale and Mendon Streets, potentially for town purchase and development. The board also set a Special Town Meeting for February 11, 2025, to consider an article authorizing the purchase of those parcels. A request for a conservation restriction on Route 140 property was not approved and will be reviewed by town counsel. The board also appointed two constables and a Historical Commission member.

• Authorized TA to engage with property sellers for two parcels at Hopedale/Mendon Streets (3-0)
• Set Special Town Meeting for Feb 11, 2025, and opened/closed warrant with land purchase article (3-0)
• Appointed Steven Mahan and Barry Costello as constables (3-0)
• Appointed Nicole Zhang to Historical Commission (3-0)
• Accepted Havens Autobody donation to Police Department (3-0)
• Deferred approval of meeting minutes from 2024 to next meeting
• Voted to enter executive session for litigation strategy (3-0)

Town Clerk

This is a procedural meeting for a required test of voting equipment. No decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Voting equipment test on January 22, 2025 at 10:00 am in the Draper Room of Town Hall

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will consider final comments on the November 2024 draft Community Preservation Plan and plan a public hearing. The committee also will discuss changing the conflict-of-interest by-law, including which town meeting to bring it to and a signature gathering plan. Minutes from previous meetings will be approved.

• Approval of minutes from June through December 2024
• Community Preservation Plan draft comments and public hearing planning
• Discussion of changing the conflict-of-interest by-law
• Considering town meeting and signature gathering for by-law change

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board is meeting to enter executive session under state law to discuss litigation strategy for an ongoing lawsuit (Marjorie Clinton et al v. Town of Hopedale). The agenda includes no other public business; after the session the board will adjourn.

• Executive session pursuant to Purpose 3, G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss litigation strategy for Marjorie Clinton et al v. Town of Hopedale (Worcester Superior Court, Civil Action No. 2385CV00037)

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board will vote to sign the election warrant for the February 11, 2025 election. Following that, the Board will hold two executive sessions to discuss litigation strategy and collective bargaining matters. The agenda is largely procedural with no other public business expected.

• Vote to sign Election Warrant for February 11, 2025
• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy in Marjorie Clinton et al v. Town of Hopedale (Worcester Superior Court)
• Executive session to discuss strategy for collective bargaining and litigation with Hopedale Education Association (AAA Case No. 01-24-0007-6998)

Park Commission

The Hopedale Park Commission will review the FY budget and schedule a meeting with the Finance Committee. Other discussions include a usage request for the Fairy Walk, summer program planning, and updates on Phillips Field irrigation and dead tree removal. Previous action items such as culvert repairs and a rock wall project are also on the agenda.

• Usage request from Tracey Phillips for Fairy Walk on 6/14/2025
• FY budget discussion and scheduling a meeting with FinCom
• Summer Band Concert Series dates request from Hopedale Cultural Council
• Dead trees inside Parklands and along Freedom St
• Phillips Field irrigation updates – board needs to obtain 3 quotes

The Hopedale Park Commission approved the 2025 Fairy Walk usage request and the Summer Band Concert series at Town Park. The board also discussed the FY budget, including potential improvements and a meeting with FinCom, and tabled the concrete pad for the bike repair station until spring.

• Approved 2025 Fairy Walk usage request (all in favor)
• Approved Summer Band Concert series at Town Park (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from November 21, 2024 (all in favor)
• Tabled concrete pad for bike repair station until spring
• Discussed FY budget and scheduled meeting with FinCom

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will conduct an initial review of the FY26 budget book and discuss estimated revenues. The body will also establish the budget timeline and schedule for subsequent meetings.

• Initial review of FY26 budget book
• Update on estimated revenues
• Establishment of budget timeline and future meetings
• Approval of minutes from October 10, October 24, October 30, and November 14

Board of Health

The Hopedale Board of Health will meet to vote on a floor drain regulation. The board will also review the FY 2026 budget proposal and recycle center revenue from May to December 2024.

• Approval of Floor Drain Regulation
• FY 2026 Budget Proposal
• Recycle Center Revenue (May 2024 to December 2024)

Council on Aging Board

The Hopedale Council on Aging Board will meet on January 16, 2025, to approve minutes from November 2024 and receive the Director's Report. Old business items include planning for the Senior Tax Work-off program in 2025, discussing the FY'26 budget, strategic and transition planning, a MWRTA regional grant for Hopedale inclusion, van driver logistics, and AARP tax clinics. New business covers setting the February 2025 meeting date.

• Senior Tax Work-off program 2025 planning
• FY'26 Budget discussion
• MWRTA Regional Grant – Hopedale Inclusion
• Van Driver Discussion
• AARP Tax Clinics update

The Council on Aging board accepted the November minutes and heard the director's report. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational, covering outreach, budget, and program updates.

• Accepted November meeting minutes
• Discussed budget savings of $5,000 annually from newsletter and van driver line items
• Deferred decision on keeping van to February meeting

Planning Board

The Hopedale Planning Board will hold a public meeting on January 15, 2025. The main agenda item is an application for a site plan modification at 2 Condon Way. The board will also review and approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Application for Site Plan Modification at 2 Condon Way
• Review and approval of minutes from previous meetings

The Planning Board continued the public hearing for a site plan modification at 2 Condon Way to February 5, 2025, pending a review by Graves Engineering. The applicant proposes a 14,250-square-foot industrial building with modifications to previously approved plans, including better parking, rear entrances, reduced setback, and a smaller building. No substantive decisions were made; the board will sign off after receiving the engineering review.

• Continued site plan modification hearing for 2 Condon Way to February 5, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 23, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 13, 2024 (unanimous)

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board approved a prefabricated handicap ramp at Hopedale Pond bathhouse for ADA compliance and multiple ARPA funding requests including fire truck repairs and cemetery irrigation. The board discussed the deteriorating Town Hall building, with repair costs over $500,000 and renovation estimates over $10 million, considering options like leasing or purchasing new space. Additionally, they approved tree removals on Adin Street, a library A/C contract, and ratified police contracts.

• Approved handicap ramp at Hopedale Pond bathhouse ($11,550 total, $5,775 ARPA)
• Approved ARPA funding: $7,000 for fire truck repairs, $5,369 for cemetery irrigation
• Approved removal of 5 trees on Adin Street and 1 pine on Plain Street
• Awarded $15,500 A/C contract to Hannon Heating and Air for Bancroft Memorial Library
• Discussed Town Hall conditions: heating repairs over $500,000, renovation over $10 million, exploring alternatives

The Select Board accepted Officer James Flagg's resignation and appointed Officer Costello as a full-time police officer. The board voted to delay signing the February 11, 2025 election warrant until a later meeting to clarify the monetary amount. Additional funds for a fire station exhaust ventilation system were discussed but not voted on, with a plan to request a reserve fund transfer via FinCom.

• Approved minutes from 3/25/2024, 4/8/2024, 4/22/2024, 5/8/2024 (3-0)
• Accepted resignation of Officer James Flagg effective January 5, 2025 (3-0)
• Appointed Officer Costello as full-time police officer effective January 15, 2025 (3-0)
• Delayed signing election warrant for February 11, 2025 until Thursday meeting (2-0-1 abstention)
• Signed ABCC Annual Licensee Renewal Certification form (3-0)

Assessors

The Hopedale Board of Assessors will hold a regular meeting to review departmental bills paid since the last meeting, sign warrants and commitments for FY2025 actual billing (Q3/Q4), and review the FY2025 Property Tax Exemptions Report. They will also consider approving minutes from three December 2024 meetings and discuss future meeting dates. An executive session is planned to discuss confidential matters such as abatements and exemptions.

• Review and sign Warrants and Commitments for FY2025 Actual Billing (Q3/Q4)
• Review Property Tax Exemptions Report for FY2025
• Review FY24 Annual Report submitted by Principal Assessor Mark D Capuano
• Approval of minutes from December 9, 2024 regular and executive sessions
• Executive session for FY25 Personal Exemptions and other confidential matters

Bancroft Memorial Library / Board of Trustees

The Hopedale Library Board of Trustees will meet on January 9, 2025. They will review the FY26 draft budget submitted on December 13 and a signed contract with Cenaxo for gutter cleaning and roof repairs. The director's report also includes updates on a new key box for the fire department and a new director computer.

• Approval of December 3, 2024 minutes
• Director's report: new key box for HFD, new director computer, FY26 budget draft submitted
• Budget review
• Friends of the Hopedale Library update
• Contract signed with Cenaxo for gutter cleaning and roof leaks

The Board of Library Trustees met on January 9, 2025, and approved the December 3, 2024 minutes. The director's report was accepted as submitted. The board discussed facility repairs, including roof work scheduled to start the week of January 13, and reviewed the FY26 budget, which was submitted to the Town Administrator on December 13. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved minutes from December 3, 2024 (unanimous)
• Accepted director's report as submitted
• Declined to host a textile shed on advice of Town Admin
• Scheduled roof repair by Cenaxo using approved funds, starting week of January 13

Water & Sewer Commissioners

The Hopedale Water & Sewer Commission will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss several infrastructure and financial items. New business includes budgets, while old business covers sludge thickener, PFAS addition, change orders, asset management (rate study), and copper exceedances at the wastewater treatment plant. The meeting will also include managers’ report and public comment.

• Discuss budgets for water and sewer
• Review PFAS addition project
• Update on sludge thickener
• Consider change orders
• Asset management and rate study

The Board reviewed the proposed FY26 Water and Sewer Department budgets, noting a 3% total decrease for water and a 4% decrease (8% including reserve) for sewer. No formal votes were taken on the budgets; the discussion was informational. The Board also discussed the sludge thickener project, PFAS upgrade, and a potential $70,000 change order, but no decisions were made on these items.

• Approved minutes of December 12, 2024 meeting (2-0)
• Discussed FY26 water budget with 3% total decrease (no vote)
• Discussed FY26 sewer budget with 4% decrease, 8% including reserve (no vote)
• Discussed sludge thickener project and potential contract with Agresource Trucking (no vote)
• Discussed PFAS upgrade and potential $70,000 change order (no vote)

Housing Authority

The Hopedale Housing Authority will meet to review financial reports and administrative updates. The board will discuss the current vacancy and wait list.

• Approval of minutes from December 12, 2024
• Approval of bills from December 9, 2024 to January 6, 2025
• Review of November 2024 balance statement from Fee Accountant
• Review of vacancy and wait list

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is meeting to review updates on museum exhibits, digitization projects, and volunteer programs. The body will discuss electrical work quotes for the Little Red Shop Museum and the status of a town-requested proposal for building condition assessments.

• Review of electrical work quotes from electrician Dan Soares for the museum
• Status update on Tighe and Bond proposal for NPS Condition Assessment Report items
• Recommendation of Nicole Zhang for appointment to the Historical Commission
• Discussion on restoration funding for the Eben S. Draper carriage
• Update on the 2024 and 2025 Senior Real Estate Tax Credit Volunteer Program

School Committee

The Hopedale School Committee will hold a preliminary presentation and vote on the FY26 budget, approve annual school fees, and discuss future capital projects with the Select Board. Other business includes a vote on accepting a donated grand piano and approving an overnight field trip for the Student Council.

• Public Gift Donation/Grant - 1982 'Young Chang' Grand Piano - Vote required
• Joint meeting with Select Board for discussion on future capital projects in schools
• Preliminary Presentation of FY26 Budget - Vote required
• Annual Review and Approval of Fees – Vote required
• Student Council Annual Conference Overnight Field Trip - Vote required

Administrator - Select Board

The Select Board's agenda consists solely of entering an executive session under state law to discuss litigation strategy for the case Marjorie Clinton et al v. Town of Hopedale, followed by adjournment. No other business or public hearings are scheduled.

• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy for Marjorie Clinton et al v. Town of Hopedale (Worcester Superior Court, Civil Action No. 2385CV00037)

Administrator - Select Board

The Hopedale Select Board and School Committee are holding a joint meeting to discuss two items: the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process and future capital collaborations. These are discussions only, with no votes or decisions scheduled. Public comments are allowed for items not on the agenda and during specific agenda items.

• Discussion regarding MSBA Process
• Discussion regarding Future Capital Collaborations

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors will consider the makeup and representation of the Executive Director Screening and Search Committees, followed by a focus group on desired attributes for the next executive director. All items involve the hiring process for a new executive director. No financial or policy decisions are on the agenda.

• Approval of makeup of Executive Director Screening Committee (vote required)
• Approval of Board representation on Executive Director Search Committee (vote required)
• Board focus group on attributes of next executive director