Monson public meetings in 2021

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board will hold public hearings on two applications: a special permit for a mixed-use residential/business building on Boston Road West, and a site plan review for Dish Wireless to add equipment at 5 High Street. The board will also discuss setting a date for continued Adult Cannabis use Bylaw discussions, approve minutes, and review the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Special permit for 40x80 mixed-use building (office and residential) at Boston Road West, Map 1, Parcels 1 & 2B
• Dish Wireless site plan review for 3 antennas, 6 RRUs, 3 junction boxes, 3 cables, and ground equipment lease at 5 High Street
• Discussion to set date for Adult Cannabis use Bylaw continuation
• Approval of minutes for October 19 and November 16, 2021
• Bill schedule for Turley Publications: $122.69

The Monson Planning Board voted 4-0 to grant conditional approval for a special permit and site plan for a 40x80 mixed-use building with office and residential space on Boston Road West. The board also approved a site plan for Dish Wireless to add antennas and equipment at 5 High Street, with a 3-0 vote. No other substantive decisions were made; minutes from prior meetings were not approved.

• Granted conditional approval for mixed-use building at Boston Road West (4-0)
• Approved Dish Wireless site plan for 5 High Street (3-0)
• Closed public hearing for Dish Wireless (3-0)
• Signed bill schedule for Turley Publications ($122.69)
• Agreed on 2022 meeting schedule
• Tabled approval of October and November minutes

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting on December 20, 2021, at 10:00 A.M. in the Public Meeting Room at 110 Main Street. The agenda includes only the Pledge of Allegiance and one old business item: approval of various licenses. No other substantive items are listed.

• Approval of various licenses

The Select Board held a special meeting and approved a list of various licenses as attached to the agenda. The meeting adjourned immediately after the vote, with no other substantive decisions made.

• Approved list of various licenses (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for December 16, 2021, was canceled. The next public hearing is scheduled for January 20, 2022.

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for December 16, 2021 was cancelled. No decisions were made.

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to discuss several policy items, including a gifts to the town account policy, hybrid public meetings, and police performance goals. They will also review the FY23 budget and ARPA committee discussions, along with routine approvals and an executive session on collective bargaining or litigation.

• Discussion of Gifts to the Town Account Policy
• Discussion of Hybrid Public Meetings Policy
• FY23 Budget Discussion with Administrator Wolowicz and Director of Finance Farnum
• ARPA Committee Discussion
• Police Dept 6 Month Reappointments

The Monson Select Board appointed a nine-member internal ARPA committee to vet projects for federal funds, and voted unanimously not to adopt a hybrid public meeting policy. Several items were tabled, including license approvals and a host funds request, due to a member's absence and a conflict of interest. The board also discussed a potential cannabis retail store and FY23 budget planning.

• Appointed ARPA Committee members effective through June 30, 2022 (unanimous)
• Voted not to create a hybrid public meeting policy (unanimous)
• Approved police department 6-month reappointments through June 30, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 23, 2021 open session (unanimous)
• Tabled various license approvals to a special meeting
• Tabled host funds request until next meeting
• Cancelled December 28 meeting, resume January 11, 2022 (unanimous)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is holding a working meeting on December 8, 2021, at 6:00 PM at 110 Main Street. The only new business item is a discussion with Attorney Benjamin Coyle regarding the License Commission's rules and regulations. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of License Commission Rules & Regulations with Attorney Benjamin Coyle

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to conduct a tax classification hearing, discuss updates on COVID-19 response, ARPA funds, and recovery roads, and consider several administrative items including recording meetings, a parking ban, and finance department reorganization. The agenda also includes routine business such as approving minutes and signing warrants.

• Tax Classification Hearing with Board of Assessors and Director of Finance Farnum
• ARPA Funds Update by Director of Finance Farnum
• Recovery Roads discussion with Lindsey Esser
• Parking Ban discussion by Administrator Wolowicz
• Finance Department Reorganization discussion

The Select Board unanimously approved the 2022 single tax rate of $17.88 and declined to adopt residential or small commercial exemptions. They also voted to appoint Sherri Roberson as acting assistant treasurer, Audra Staples as acting treasurer and HR director, and to add a part-time finance floating clerk. The board approved the November 9, 2021 meeting minutes and voted to have the Town Administrator decide on closing town offices during heavy snow events.

• Approved the November 9, 2021 open session meeting minutes.
• Adopted the single tax rate of $17.88 for 2022.
• Voted not to adopt the residential or small commercial exemption.
• Appointed Sherri Roberson as acting assistant treasurer, Audra Staples as acting treasurer and HR director, and added a part-time finance floating clerk.
• Voted to have the Town Administrator make decisions on closing town offices during heavy snow events.
• Discussed but took no action on a Gifts to the Town Account policy, placing it under Old Business for the next meeting.
• Discussed but took no action on a hybrid meeting policy, awaiting more information.
• Discussed but took no action on posting a Board of Health COVID-19 Q&A document, with concerns raised about accuracy and currency.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold continued hearings regarding a special permit for a farm stand/restaurant and a variance for a residential garage. The board will also review meeting minutes and a publication bill.

• Special Permit for Westview Holdings, LLC to serve alcohol and expand outside seating at 107-109 East Hill Road
• Variance request from Mark L. Hunter to install a 14' x 24' garage at 351 Cedar Swamp Road
• Bill schedule for Turley Publications, Inc in the amount of $90.41

The Zoning Board of Appeals denied a variance for a proposed garage at 351 Cedar Swamp Road, voting 5-0. The board also accepted the withdrawal without prejudice of a special permit application from Westview Holdings, LLC for a farm stand/restaurant at 107-109 East Hill Road, after advising the applicant that the restaurant use could not be approved.

• Denied variance for 14' x 24' garage at 351 Cedar Swamp Road (5-0)
• Accepted withdrawal without prejudice of Westview Holdings' special permit application for farm stand/restaurant at 107-109 East Hill Road
• Approved minutes from September 23, 2021, with spelling correction (5-0)
• Approved minutes from October 28, 2021, with two wording changes (4-0-1, Martin abstained)
• Signed bill schedule for Turley Publications Inc. for $90.41

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board will hold public hearings on two applications: a continued site plan and stormwater special permit for a gas station redevelopment at 27 Palmer Road, and a new special permit with site plan approval for a mixed-use residential/office building on Boston Road West. The board will also consider a bill schedule for Turley Publications, Inc. for $129.15.

• Continued hearing for CPD Group Management Corp. gas station redevelopment at 27 Palmer Road (Map 112 Parcel 90), including stormwater special permit
• New hearing for Jeffery Allard's mixed-use building (40 x 80) with office and residential units on Boston Road West, near Silver Street (Map 1, Parcels 1 & 2B)
• Bill schedule for Turley Publications, Inc. for $129.15

The Planning Board approved a site plan and special permit for a gas station redevelopment at 27 Palmer Road, with conditions from peer review. A separate mixed-use building proposal on Boston Road West was continued to December 21, 2021, for more information. The board also approved a bill payment.

• Approved site plan and special permit for gas station redevelopment at 27 Palmer Road with Tighe & Bond recommendations (4-0-1, King abstained)
• Continued public hearing for mixed-use building on Boston Road West to December 21, 2021
• Approved bill schedule for Turley Publications, Inc. $129.15 (5-0)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will hold its regular meeting, including public comment, old and new business. Key items include appointing members to town committees, discussing a pavement management plan, accepting a $5,000 gift for holiday lights, and reviewing performance goals and a hybrid meeting policy.

• Appoint Melissa Blackburn to Council On Aging and Zoning Board of Appeals
• Pavement Management Plan presentation by PVPC's Amir Kouzehkanani
• Gift to the Town: $5,000 from Scott Malo for Holiday Light Up Monson
• Eastern Hampden Shared Public Health Services staff introductions
• Discussion of Performance Goals with Chief Harris and Hybrid Public Meetings Policy

The Monson Select Board made several appointments and approved funding. It appointed Mary Hull and Pat Oney as voting members and Mary Watson as a non-voting ex-officio member of the Bylaw Committee. It also approved a $5,000 request from the Gifts to the Town account for the Holiday Light Up Monson group. The board voted to appoint Melissa Blackburn to the Council on Aging but denied her appointment to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Appointed Mary Hull and Pat Oney as voting members and Mary Watson as ex-officio member of Bylaw Committee (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 from Gifts to the Town for Holiday Light Up Monson (2-1)
• Appointed Melissa Blackburn to Council on Aging (2-1)
• Denied appointment of Melissa Blackburn to Zoning Board of Appeals (0-3)
• Approved meeting minutes of October 26, 2021 (unanimous)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is holding a working meeting on November 8, 2021, at 6:00 PM in the Public Meeting Room at 110 Main Street. The agenda includes only one new business item: a discussion of License Commission Rules & Regulations with Attorney Benjamin Coyle. No other substantive items are listed.

• Discussion of License Commission Rules & Regulations with Attorney Benjamin Coyle

The Select Board met with all town liquor license holders to discuss proposed regulations for liquor, entertainment, and one-day licenses. Attorney Coyle presented a draft manual modeled after Springfield, and changes were noted, including closing hours from 2 a.m. to 1 a.m. No final regulations were adopted; a revised draft will be presented at a follow-up meeting on December 8, 2021, with the goal of implementation by January 1, 2022.

• Discussed draft liquor license regulations with licensees (no vote)
• Noted change in on-premises closing hours from 2 a.m. to 1 a.m. (proposed)
• Agreed to hold follow-up meeting on December 8, 2021 (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:48 p.m. (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public meeting on October 28, 2021, to continue hearings on a honey bee appeal and a farm stand/restaurant special permit, and to hear new applications for a convenience store with gas pumps and a garage variance. The board will also discuss an informal request for a variance to build on a lot on Hilltop Drive. The agenda includes approval of previous minutes and payment of bills.

• Appeal of zoning enforcement decision on honey bees at 1F Whitney Ave, filed by Roxanne Gunther
• Special permit for Westview Holdings, LLC to extend non-conforming use at 107-109 East Hill Road for farm stand/restaurant with alcohol and outdoor seating
• Special permit for CPD Group Management Corp. to build convenience store with gas pumps at 27 Palmer Road, in Water Supply Protection District
• Variance request by Mark L. Hunter for 14' x 24' garage at 351 Cedar Swamp Road
• Informal discussion on variance for Lot #7 on Hilltop Drive (168 ft frontage)

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals voted 2-1 to rescind the Building Inspector's letter allowing James O'Connell to keep honey bees at 1F Whitney Ave, determining the use was not permitted in that zone. The board approved a special permit for CPD Group Management Corp. to build a new convenience store and install gasoline pumps at 27 Palmer Road, voting 5-0. Decisions on the Westview Holdings farm stand/restaurant alcohol service and Mark Hunter's garage variance were continued to November 18, 2021.

• Rescinded Building Inspector's letter allowing honey bees at 1F Whitney Ave (2-1)
• Approved special permit for new convenience store and gas pumps at 27 Palmer Road (5-0)
• Continued Westview Holdings special permit for alcohol service at 107-109 East Hill Road to Nov 18
• Continued Mark Hunter's garage variance at 351 Cedar Swamp Road to Nov 18

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to discuss a code of conduct policy under old business and to handle new business including approving minutes, receiving a rapid recovery report, and making several committee and officer appointments. The agenda also includes routine items like signing correspondence and warrants.

• Code of Conduct Policy discussion
• Rapid Recovery Report by Pioneer Valley Planning Commission
• Committee appointments: Bylaw, Replanting Monson Tree, Conservation, Zoning Board of Appeals, Historical Commission
• ARPA Fund Request by Chief Kozloski and Highway Surveyor Murphy
• Police Officer Appointment of Nathan Cote

The Select Board unanimously approved a $50,000 ARPA fund request for eight pairs of solar-powered pedestrian crossing signs in the downtown area, aimed at improving safety after several accidents and 16 crosswalk violations. The board also accepted the Rapid Recovery Plan, approved a modified Code of Conduct policy, and made several appointments to town committees and positions.

• Approved $50,000 ARPA fund for pedestrian crossing signs (unanimous)
• Accepted Rapid Recovery Plan as presented (unanimous)
• Approved Code of Conduct policy with employee inclusion (unanimous)
• Rescinded fence bylaw referral to General Bylaw Committee, referred to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Heather Wilson to Bylaw Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Peter Warren to Replanting Monson Tree Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Bob D'Aquila to Conservation Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Appointed Nathan Cote as full-time police officer (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board will hold public hearings on three applications: two Dish Wireless site plan reviews for antenna installations at 127 Hovey Road and 91 Cedar Swamp Road, and a gas station redevelopment with special permits at 27 Palmer Road. The board will also discuss a draft adult cannabis bylaw and approve minutes and bills.

• Dish Wireless site plan review for antennas at 127 Hovey Road, Map 45 Parcel 007Z, Rural Residential district
• Dish Wireless site plan review for 3 antennas and ground equipment at 91 Cedar Swamp Road, Map 102 Parcel 002, Rural Residential district
• CPD Group Management Corp. site plan approval and special permits for gas station redevelopment at 27 Palmer Road, Map 112 Parcel 90, General Commercial district
• Public discussion on draft Adult Cannabis use bylaw
• Approval of 09/21/2021 minutes and bill schedules ($35.16, $383.58)

The Monson Planning Board approved two Dish Wireless site plan applications for antenna installations on existing towers at 127 Hovey Road and 91 Cedar Swamp Road, both by 5-0 votes. The board also granted a 30-day extension for a gas station redevelopment proposal at 27 Palmer Road, continuing that hearing to November 16, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a discussion on a draft adult cannabis bylaw and other administrative items.

• Approved Dish Wireless site plan at 127 Hovey Road (5-0)
• Approved Dish Wireless site plan at 91 Cedar Swamp Road (5-0)
• Approved 30-day extension for CPD Group gas station redevelopment at 27 Palmer Road (5-0)
• Approved minutes from September 21, 2021 (5-0)
• Signed bill schedules for U.S. Postal Service ($35.16) and Turley Publications ($383.58)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will hold its regular meeting, covering old business like FY22 goals and a fence dispute at 218 Cedar Swamp Road, and new business including a bylaw request on fences and light pollution, a financial update, and police officer appointments. The board will also discuss police reform, a code of conduct policy, and trick-or-treat hours, and approve the Special Town Meeting warrant.

• Fence discussion at 218 Cedar Swamp Road from June & November 2019
• Bylaw request on fence and light pollution by Roxanne Gunther
• FY22 financial update by Director Farnum
• Police officer appointments by Chief Kozloski
• Approve STM warrant

The Monson Select Board approved the FY22 Select Board/Town Administrator goals, the 2020 Census-based precinct map, and the Special Town Meeting warrant. It also voted to forward a fence bylaw request to the Bylaw Committee (later amended to the Planning Board) and set trick-or-treat hours. A letter regarding the Springfield courthouse was approved on a 2-1 vote.

• Approved FY22 Select Board/Town Administrator goals (unanimous)
• Approved 2020 Census precinct map (unanimous)
• Approved Special Town Meeting warrant for Nov. 1, 2021 (unanimous)
• Forwarded fence bylaw request to Bylaw Committee (unanimous; later amended to Planning Board)
• Set trick-or-treat hours for Oct. 31, 2021, 4-6 p.m. (unanimous)
• Approved letter to Gov. Baker, Chief Justice Carey, and Commissioner Gladstone re: Springfield courthouse (2-1, Hull nay)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will hold a regular meeting with public comment, old and new business, and routine administrative items. Key topics include updates on shared services (public health, animal control), fire station building, and Church Street Dam, as well as decisions on COVID-19 policies, a mask mandate, and closing the Special Town Meeting warrant.

• Public Health Excellence Grant Program for Shared Services – Eric Weiss, PVPC
• Shared Animal Control Agreement with Town of Palmer
• Fire Station Building Committee Update
• Church Street Dam Update
• COVID-19 Policies & Mask Mandate

The Select Board voted 2-1 to approve the Shared Public Health Services Agreement with Hampden, Wilbraham, and Longmeadow, subject to the Board of Health's recommendation. The board also unanimously approved the shared animal control agreement with Palmer and Ware, and approved $1,500 for the Monson Road Race and $300 for the Fire Department Open House. The Special Town Meeting warrant was closed, and the board discussed but did not vote on a mask mandate or fire station funding.

• Approved Shared Public Health Services Agreement, subject to Board of Health recommendation (2-1)
• Approved Inter-Municipal Agreement for Palmer Interim Regional Dog Pound (unanimous)
• Approved $1,500 from Gifts to the Town for Monson Road Race (unanimous)
• Approved use of gazebo for Monson Road Race (unanimous)
• Approved $300 from Fire Department Gifts to the Town for Open House (unanimous)
• Closed Special Town Meeting warrant (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes for September 14, 2021 (2-0-1)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three matters: a special permit for an electrical contracting business, an appeal of a zoning enforcement decision regarding honey bees, and a special permit for a farm stand/restaurant to serve alcohol and expand seating. The board will also approve minutes, review correspondence, and pay a bill.

• Special permit for Stephen and Terri Kacoyannakis to extend non-conforming use for electrical contracting at 45 Bethany Road (Map 113-037)
• Appeal by Roxanne Gunther of zoning officer's decision allowing honey bees at 1F Whitney Ave
• Special permit for Westview Holdings LLC to extend farm stand/restaurant use, add alcohol service and expand outdoor seating at 107-109 East Hill Road (Map 152 Parcel 15)
• Bill schedule for Turley Inc. $220.85
• Approval of 08/26/2021 minutes

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for Stephen and Terri Kacoyannakis to extend a non-conforming use for an electrical contracting business at 45 Bethany Road, with conditions including hours of operation, a new entrance, vegetative buffer, and prohibition of chemical storage. The board also continued a hearing on a bee-keeping appeal to next month to consult legal counsel, and postponed a hearing for Westview Holdings due to a board member recusal and absence.

• Granted special permit to Kacoyannakis for electrical business at 45 Bethany Road (4-0)
• Continued bee-keeping appeal hearing to next month for legal counsel (4-0)
• Continued Westview Holdings special permit hearing to October 28, 2021
• Approved minutes for August 26, 2021 (4-0)
• Signed bill schedule for Turley Inc. $220.85

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board will hold a public hearing to consider amending the Zoning Bylaws to allow a municipal dog pound in the Industrial District with special permit approval. The board will also discuss renaming the Select Board and review bylaws on adult marijuana use, along with other business.

• Public hearing on zoning amendment for municipal dog pound in Industrial District
• Discussion on renaming the Select Board with Town Clerk Mary Watson
• Discussion on adult marijuana use bylaws
• ANR plans for Munn Road and 17 Bradway Road
• Bill schedule for Turley Publications ($100.74)

The Monson Planning Board unanimously approved an amendment to the Zoning Bylaws to allow a municipal dog pound in the Industrial District, subject to special permit approval. The board also discussed renaming the Select Board and reviewed proposed adult cannabis bylaws, making several changes. Two ANR plans were not approved and returned for revisions.

• Approved amended Zoning Bylaw 3.1 to allow municipal dog pound in Industrial District (6-0)
• ANR plans for Munn Road returned for revisions due to non-buildable lot
• ANR plans for 17 Bradway Road not approved due to incorrect frontage
• Approved amended minutes from August 17, 2021 (6-0)
• Approved minutes from November 17, 2020 (6-0)
• Signed bill schedule for Turley Publications, Inc. in the amount of $100.74

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to handle routine business and several appointments, and will hold a public hearing on a pole petition for Munn Road. They will also discuss the Fall Special Town Meeting scheduled for November 1, 2021, and open the warrant for it.

• Public Hearing – Pole Petition #30383 116 – Munn Road
• Appointment: Conservation Commission – Mary Smith
• Appointment: Age Friendly Community – Samantha Fisk
• Fall Special Town Meeting, Monday, November 1, 2021
• Open STM Warrant

The Monson Select Board approved the minutes of August 24, 2021, appointed Mary Smith to the Conservation Commission, approved a National Grid pole petition on Munn Road, and set the Fall Special Town Meeting for November 1, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. at Granite Valley School. The board also opened the Special Town Meeting warrant. No substantive decisions were made on public comments regarding the Church Seat dam or the school mask mandate.

• Approved minutes of August 24, 2021 (unanimous)
• Appointed Mary Smith to Conservation Commission through June 30, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved pole petition #30383110 on Munn Road (unanimous)
• Set Fall Special Town Meeting for Nov. 1, 2021, 7:00 p.m. at Granite Valley School (unanimous)
• Opened Special Town Meeting warrant (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals holds a public hearing on an appeal of the zoning enforcement officer's decision allowing James O'Connell of 1F Whitney Ave to keep honey bees on his parcel. The appeal was filed by Roxanne Gunther of 69 May Hill Rd. Materials are on file with the Building Department.

• Appeal of zoning officer's decision on honey bees at 1F Whitney Ave
• Appellant: Roxanne Gunther, 69 May Hill Rd.
• Property owner: James O'Connell, 1F Whitney Ave
• Public hearing at Monson Town Offices, 110 Main St.

The Zoning Board of Appeals rescheduled the public hearing for Roxanne Gunther's appeal of the zoning enforcement officer's decision allowing James O'Connell to keep honey bees at 1F Whitney Avenue. The hearing was moved to September 23, 2021, because the required second legal notice was not published in the newspaper. The board also discussed the Magic Lantern's annual permit renewal and held informal discussions on two property proposals, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Rescheduled bee appeal hearing to September 23, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved annual renewal for Magic Lantern with leniency due to COVID-19
• Discussed informal proposal for construction business at 460 Boston Road
• Discussed informal proposal for business at 0 Palmer Road
• Approved minutes for July 22, 2021 (5-0)
• Signed bill schedules for postal service ($36.74) and Turley Publications ($394.01)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to discuss FY22 goals with the Town Administrator, hold a public hearing on the FY21 Community Development Block Grant, and consider a contract extension with Republic Services. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, bills, and warrants.

• FY22 Select Board/Town Administrator Goals Discussion
• FY21 Monson CDBG Grant Public Hearing with John O'Leary, PVPC
• Republic Contract Extension with Dan Higgins, Republic Services
• Age Friendly Communities Committee Appointment for Karen O'Toole
• Hampden County Retirement Board Letter

The Select Board unanimously approved a one-year extension of the Republic Services contract for trash and recycling collection, with a 4.5% rate increase. They also appointed Karen O'Toole to the Age Friendly Communities Committee, authorized the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission to submit a CDBG grant application for up to $800,000, and approved minutes from August 10 and 18. The board discussed but did not finalize FY22 goals, and agreed to hold the September 14 meeting.

• Approved the minutes of August 10 and August 18, 2021 open sessions.
• Appointed Karen O'Toole to the Age Friendly Communities Committee effective immediately through June 30, 2022.
• Approved a one-year extension of the Republic Services contract with a 4.5% increase.
• Authorized the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission to submit a FY21 CDBG grant application not to exceed $800,000.
• Authorized the Select Board Chair to sign all required forms for the CDBG grant application.
• Agreed to hold the September 14 meeting and defer important items to September 28.

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to handle a single item of new business: closing the Special Town Meeting (STM) warrant. This is a procedural step that finalizes the list of articles to be considered at the upcoming Special Town Meeting.

• Close the STM Warrant

The Select Board voted unanimously to approve and close the Special Town Meeting warrant. A discussion was held with Finance Committee member Peter Fimognari about improving the warrant process for the future. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved and closed Special Town Meeting warrant (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board will hold an informal discussion about relocating a construction business to 480 Boston Road West, including a proposed 7,200+ sq ft garage and office. They will also discuss the town bylaw on adult marijuana use, and consider approving the June 15, 2021 minutes and a $16.36 postal bill.

• Informal discussion: 480 Boston Road West (parcel 1-6) — construction business relocation, 7,200+ sq ft garage, small office
• Discussion of bylaw as it relates to adult marijuana use
• Approval of June 15, 2021 meeting minutes
• Bill schedule for Postal Service: $16.36 (encumbered)

The Monson Planning Board held an informal discussion about a proposed construction business at 480 Boston Road West, noting it would need ZBA approval and site plans. The board also discussed a draft adult marijuana bylaw, with plans to revisit waiver language next month and eventually bring it to a town vote. Craig Sweitzer was re-assigned as Chairman, and the board approved the June 15, 2021 minutes and a $16.36 postal bill. No formal votes were taken on the substantive items.

• Re-assigned Craig Sweitzer as Chairman of the Board
• Approved minutes for June 15, 2021
• Signed bill schedule for Postal Service $16.36 (encumbered)
• Adjourned meeting 5-0

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will hold a regular meeting with public comment, old business, and new business items. Key discussions include the marijuana bylaw process, a shared animal control agreement with Palmer, and FY22 goals. The board will also consider appointments, budgets, and other administrative matters.

• Marijuana Bylaw Process discussion
• Shared Animal Control Agreement with Town of Palmer
• FY22 Select Board/Town Administrator Goals Discussion
• Fire Department Budget Discussion
• Community Services Coordinator Position Discussion

The Select Board voted 2-1 to allow the Planning Board to proceed with the marijuana bylaw process, with Ms. Hull dissenting. The board also approved appointing election officers, allowing the Lion's Club to park its Sight-mobile in the town office lot, and discussed several other items including a potential Conservation Agent position and fire department staffing.

• Approved motion to allow Planning Board to proceed with marijuana bylaw process (2-1, Oney and Smith aye, Hull nay)
• Approved appointment of election officers as read (2-0, Smith abstained due to wife on list)
• Approved Lion's Club request to park Sight-mobile in town office parking lot (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 27 and August 3, 2021 open sessions (unanimous)
• Tabled shared animal control agreement with Palmer (Warren not participating)
• Discussed adding Conservation Agent position, no vote taken
• Discussed fire department staffing and budget concerns, no vote taken
• Agreed to review letter regarding Hampden County Regional Retirement Board audit

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to conduct routine business and consider two new items: opening the Special Town Meeting warrant and discussing a reduced quorum. The agenda is otherwise procedural, including public comment, signing correspondence, and approving bills and warrants.

• Open STM Warrant
• Reduced Quorum Discussion
• Sign necessary correspondence
• Initial all bills
• Sign warrants

The Select Board voted unanimously to open the Special Town Meeting warrant and to reduce the quorum from 50 to 25 people for the September 1, 2021 Special Town Meeting. The meeting was brief and adjourned at 10:05 a.m.

• Opened Special Town Meeting warrant (unanimous)
• Reduced quorum from 50 to 25 for Sept. 1 Special Town Meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is holding its regular meeting with public comment, a Boston Post Cane award, and several old and new business items. Key discussions include FY22 goals, a marijuana bylaw process, a zone change for the dog pound, and multiple appointments and requests. The agenda includes both decisions and discussion items.

• Boston Post Cane Award to Priscilla Martin, oldest Monson resident
• Appointment of Penny Gustafson as Administrative Assistant for Building, Planning, Zoning & Conservation
• Road closure request and $5,000 gift to town from National Night Out Committee
• Gift to town from Elaine Kurasinski, Vintage Ice Cream Emporium
• Marijuana bylaw process discussion with Planning Board Chair Craig Sweitzer

The Monson Select Board approved a $3,000 gift from the Gifts to the Town account for the National Night Out event, appointed Penny Gustafson as administrative assistant, and set a Special Town Meeting for September 1, 2021. The board also approved a road closure for the event, formed an Age and Dementia Friendly Community Committee, and voted to amend zoning bylaws to allow a municipal dog pound in the Industrial District. A request from a local ice cream truck owner for funds was denied.

• Approved $3,000 from Gifts to the Town account for National Night Out (unanimous)
• Appointed Penny Gustafson as administrative assistant for Building, Planning, Zoning & Conservation (unanimous)
• Approved road closure for National Night Out on Aug. 3 (unanimous)
• Set Special Town Meeting for Sept. 1, 2021 at Granite Valley School (unanimous)
• Amended zoning bylaws to allow municipal dog pound in Industrial District (unanimous)
• Formed Age and Dementia Friendly Community Committee (unanimous)
• Denied $150-$200 request from Vintage Ice Cream Emporium for National Night Out
• Approved minutes of July 13, 2021 and executive session minutes (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a special permit review for a property at 53 Bunyan Rd, where Richard Armida and Kimberly McCloskey were granted a 2-year permit to raise pets for gainful purpose. The board will assess compliance as part of the required 1-year review. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from previous meetings.

• Special Permit Review Case No. D-2020 for 53 Bunyan Rd
• 1-year review of 2-year permit for raising pets for gainful purpose
• Minutes from September 24, 2020 and June 24, 2021 meetings

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for Richard Armida and Kimberly McCloskey to raise pets for gainful purpose at 53 Bunyan Rd, after a one-year review. The board noted no complaints and indicated the permit would likely be issued indefinitely after another review in one year. The board also approved prior meeting minutes, a $36.74 advertising bill, and discussed the Magic Lantern's permit submission requirements.

• Approved special permit for pet raising at 53 Bunyan Rd (4-0)
• Approved September 24, 2020 minutes (4-0)
• Approved June 24, 2021 minutes (4-0)
• Approved $36.74 payment to Turley Publication for advertising (4-0)
• Decided to send letter to Magic Lantern requiring timely annual permit application

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to discuss several items, including a letter of support for a public health grant, a shared animal control agreement, and a veterans services update. New business includes a request for a host community agreement from a cannabis company, a zone change for the dog pound, and a discussion of the board's goals for FY22. The board will also consider declaring school buses as surplus property.

• Host Community Agreement Request from Angela Bradway, Massachusetts Cannabis Company
• Zone Change for Dog Pound
• School Buses - Surplus Property Declaration
• Shared Animal Control Agreement
• FY22 Select Board/Town Administrator Goals Discussion

The Select Board voted unanimously to approve a letter of support for the Public Health Excellence Grant Program for Shared Services, which provides roughly $300,000 per year to support a shared public health nurse and health agent for Monson, Longmeadow, Hampden, and Wilbraham. The board also approved a financial management review by the state's Technical Assistance Bureau, sent letters of support for a bill on crumbling concrete foundations, declared 15 school buses as surplus property, and updated its rules and procedures. Several items were tabled to the July 27 meeting, including the shared animal control agreement, a zone change for the dog pound, and a trail committee update.

• Approved letter of support for Public Health Excellence Grant Program for Shared Services
• Approved Technical Assistance Bureau financial management review for the Town of Monson
• Approved sending letters of support for Bill S548 on crumbling concrete foundations
• Declared 15 school buses as surplus property for disposal via GovDeals
• Approved updated Select Board Rules, Regulations, Policies, and Procedures
• Approved having M-PACT record executive sessions
• Tabled shared animal control agreement to July 27 meeting
• Tabled zone change for dog pound to July 27 meeting

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public meeting to continue a special permit application for a veterinary clinic and hear two appeals from a resident regarding her neighbor's beekeeping and flood light. The board will also review and approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Special permit for variance from Section 3.1 for Catherine Pienkos, Care for Animals, LLC, to operate Monson Small Animal Clinic at 2 Main St 113, Lot 58 (General Commercial zone)
• Appeal by Roxanne Gunther, 1F Whitney Ave, regarding Zoning Officer's determination on neighbor's beekeeping
• Appeal by Roxanne Gunther, 1F Whitney Ave, regarding Zoning Officer's determination on neighbor's flood light disturbance
• Approval of minutes from 10/22/20, 2/25/21, 4/22/21, and 5/27/21

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a dimensional variance and issued a special permit for Catherine Pienkos to operate a veterinary clinic at 2 Main St. The board also continued a hearing on a beekeeping appeal to allow the property owner to obtain an official plot plan, and discussed a flood light complaint but took no action.

• Approved dimensional variance for Catherine Pienkos's veterinary clinic at 2 Main St.
• Issued special permit for operation of a veterinary establishment at 2 Main St.
• Continued the beekeeping appeal hearing to allow James O'Connell to get an official plot plan.
• Accepted minutes from meetings on 10/22/20, 2/25/21, 4/22/21, and 5/27/21.

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will hold its regular meeting, including public comment, new and old business. Key items include a vote on the Animal Control Agreement, discussion of board member roles, reorganization, annual appointments, and setting goals for the town administrator for fiscal year 2022. The board will also consider a $1,000 gift from the Lion's Club and end-of-year transfers.

• Vote on Animal Control Agreement
• Approve minutes of June 8, 2021 (open and executive sessions)
• Select Board reorganization and annual appointments
• Gift request of $1,000 from Ginny Pizzichemi, Lion's Club
• End of year transfers by Finance Director Farnum

The Select Board reorganized, appointing Dr. Smith as Chair, Ms. Oney as Vice Chair, and Ms. Hull as Clerk. They approved annual appointments, including Mary Hull to the Board of Health and several Special Reserve Police Officers. The Board also approved a $1,000 donation to the Lions Club for an outdoor movie, approved end-of-year transfers, and discussed goals for the upcoming fiscal year. The Animal Control Agreement was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes of June 8, 2021 (unanimous)
• Reorganized board: Dr. Smith as Chair, Ms. Oney as Vice Chair, Ms. Hull as Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved annual appointments as listed (unanimous)
• Appointed Mary Hull to Board of Health for 3 years (2-0-1, Hull abstained)
• Appointed Special Reserve Police Officers for 6 months (unanimous)
• Donated $1,000 to Lions Club for July 8 movie (unanimous)
• Approved end-of-year transfers (unanimous)
• Tabled Animal Control Agreement until next meeting

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board is meeting to conduct the 2020 annual review for Holistic Industries at 96 Palmer Rd, with company VP Jamie Ware attending. The board will also consider approving the minutes from the May 18, 2021 meeting. The agenda is otherwise limited to these items.

• 2020 Annual Review: 96 Palmer Rd; Holistic Industries
• Representative: Jamie Ware, VP of Compliance and Government Relations
• Approval of 5/18/21 meeting minutes

The Planning Board reviewed the Special Permit/Site Plan for Holistic Industries at 96 Palmer Rd and verified that all operating conditions and standards continue to be met for their required annual review; no formal action was taken. The board also discussed future development of Adult Use Marijuana bylaws and heard updates on town projects, including the Hillside Cemetery Arch Masonry Repair and a downtown business initiative. The minutes from the May 18, 2021 meeting were approved as amended.

• Approved the May 18, 2021 meeting minutes as amended.
• Adjourned the meeting by unanimous vote.
• Reviewed Holistic Industries' annual permit compliance; no formal action required.
• Discussed future development of Adult Use Marijuana bylaws; no decision made.
• Heard updates on town projects; no formal action taken.

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting remotely to discuss and decide on several items, including a host agreement update with Holistic Industries, a contract award for the Hillside Cemetery Arch Masonry Repair Project, and an inter-municipal agreement for shared public health services. The board will also consider appointments, position title changes, and a request for a fundraiser scavenger hunt. The meeting includes an executive session on collective bargaining or litigation strategy.

• Holistic Industries Host Agreement Update
• Hillside Cemetery Arch Masonry Repair Project Contract Award
• Shared Public Health Services Inter-Municipal Agreement with PVPC
• Animal Control Agreement Update with Palmer
• Position Title Changes: Town Planner to Director of Community Development; Assistant Treasurer/HR to Assistant Treasurer/Human Resources Generalist

The Monson Select Board approved a contract with CD Masonry for the Hillside Cemetery arch repair, changed two town job titles, and approved a $40,000 settlement with SunEdison in executive session. The board also appointed members to the Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee and discussed but did not vote on the shared public health services agreement and the animal control agreement.

• Approved Hillside Cemetery arch masonry repair contract with CD Masonry (3-0)
• Approved title change for Dan Laroche from Town Planner to Director of Community Development (3-0)
• Approved title change for Audra Staples to Assistant Treasurer/Human Resources Generalist with pay increase (3-0)
• Appointed members to Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee (3-0)
• Approved $40,000 settlement with SunEdison in executive session (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 25, 2021 (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted to continue Catherine Pienkos's application for a special permit and variance for a veterinary clinic at 2 Main St to the next meeting, pending a plot plan. The board also discussed an antique car showroom proposal at 45 Bethany Rd, noting the need for rezoning. A bill of $122.69 to Turley Publications was approved.

• Continued Catherine Pienkos's variance/special permit application to next month (3-0)
• Approved $122.69 bill payment to Turley Publications (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting remotely to discuss and decide on several administrative and policy items, including lifting COVID restrictions, a permit administrative fee, and two position title changes. The agenda also includes an informational meeting with the police chief and a host agreement modification request from Holistic Industries.

• COVID restrictions lifted discussion with Health Agent McCool and HR Director Goodrich
• Permit administrative fee proposed by Building Commissioner Tirone
• Position title change: Town Planner to Director of Community Development
• Position title change: Assistant Treasurer/HR to Assistant Treasurer/Human Resources Generalist
• Host agreement modification request from Josh Genderson, CEO, Holistic Industries

The Select Board voted unanimously to authorize Town Counsel to draft rules and regulations for all licensed establishments and schedule an informational meeting with licensees. The board also discussed but did not vote on a request from Holistic Industries to reduce its Host Community Agreement fee, deferring the decision to the next meeting. Several other items, including appointments and position title changes, were tabled.

• Authorized Attorney Coyle to prepare draft rules and regulations for licensed establishments and schedule an informational meeting (3-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes of May 11, 2021 (3-0)
• Tabled decision on Holistic Industries' Host Agreement fee reduction request until June 8
• Tabled Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee appointments until next meeting
• Tabled position title change for Town Planner to Director of Community Development
• Tabled position title change for Assistant Treasurer/HR to Assistant Treasurer/Human Resources

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board approved three ANR (Approval Not Required) plans for lot reconfigurations at 10 Carriage House Ln, 224 Hovey Rd, and 27 East Hill Rd. The board also discussed forming an Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee and an informal discussion on a special permit for an estate lot at 18 Wilbraham Rd, but no formal action was taken on those items.

• Approved ANR lot reconfiguration at 10 Carriage House Ln (all in favor)
• Approved ANR lot division at 224 Hovey Rd (all in favor)
• Approved ANR lot reconfiguration at 27 East Hill Rd (all in favor)
• Approved bill payment of $236.04 (all in favor)
• Approved March 2021 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved October 2020 minutes (Karen King abstained)

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen will hold a remote meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including a seasonal liquor license for TJ's Tavern LLC, town-wide events, and the reopening of town offices. They will also consider an OPEB policy, early voting dates, and appointments.

• Seasonal liquor license application for the Pavilion by TJ's Tavern LLC, 143 Palmer Road
• Food Truck Festival on September 25, 2021, with a $5,000 gift to town accounts
• Town Wide Tag Sale on September 4, 2021
• Business name change from TJ's to TJ's Tavern LLC at 143 Palmer Road
• Town offices re-opening discussion with Health Agent McCool and HR Director Goodrich

The Monson Select Board approved a $5,000 donation from the Gifts to the Town account to support the September 25 Food Truck Festival, with a 2-1 vote (Harrison and Smith in favor, Hull opposed). The board also approved the use of Veterans Field for the event, a business name change to TJ's Tavern LLC, a seasonal liquor license for its pavilion, and set early voting dates for the June 8 town election. Additionally, the board discussed concerns about the Magic Lantern establishment, including a February shooting and lack of cooperation with police, and agreed to have the license holder appear before them with Town Counsel present.

• Approved $5,000 donation to Food Truck Festival (2-1)
• Approved use of Veterans Field for Food Truck Festival (3-0)
• Approved business name change to TJ's Tavern LLC (3-0)
• Approved seasonal liquor license for TJ's Tavern pavilion (3-0)
• Set early voting dates June 1-3, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (3-0)
• Appointed Town Administrator as hearing officer (2-1)
• Motion to change Zoom format failed (no second)
• Agreed to have Magic Lantern license holder meet with board and Town Counsel

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen is meeting remotely to handle routine approvals and several notable items. They will vote on a town administrator contract, review an OPEB policy, hear a school budget overview, and consider a pole petition for Hancock Road. The board will also approve warrants and minutes, and discuss non-union personnel and collective bargaining in executive session.

• Pole Petition #29171239 for Hancock Road
• Town Administrator Contract Approval
• OPEB Policy presented by Treasurer Goodrich
• Monson Public Schools FY22 Budget Overview by Superintendent Dr. Clarke
• Water Management Control update by Superintendent Jalbert

The Monson Board of Selectmen approved the Town Administrator contract for Jennifer L. Wolowicz, who will start full-time on May 17, 2021. The board also approved a pole petition for Hancock Road, closed the Annual and Special Town Meeting warrants, and tabled an OPEB policy discussion until May 11. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Town Administrator contract for Jennifer L. Wolowicz (2-1)
• Approved pole petition #29171239 for Hancock Road (3-0)
• Closed and approved Annual and Special Town Meeting warrants (3-0)
• Tabled OPEB policy discussion until May 11 meeting
• Accepted meeting minutes for April 13 and April 16, 2021 (3-0 each)

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen is meeting remotely to conduct a single item of new business: closing the Special Town Meeting (STM) warrant. This is a procedural step that finalizes the list of articles to be considered at the upcoming Special Town Meeting. No other substantive decisions or discussions are listed on the agenda.

• Close STM Warrant

The Board of Selectmen held a special meeting to close the Special Town Meeting warrant. The board voted unanimously to close the warrant, and then adjourned. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Closed Special Town Meeting warrant (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals is holding two public hearings. One is a continuation on a property at 75 Thayer Rd that allegedly violates dimensional/density requirements with a pool enclosure, with a motion to close the hearing without prejudice. The other continues a special permit application for agricultural development at 205 Lower Hampden Rd under Section 6.6 of the Zoning Bylaw.

• Continuation of hearing on pool enclosure violation at 75 Thayer Rd, Map 6, Parcel 11D, owned by Dana Casher
• Motion to close the 75 Thayer Rd hearing without prejudice
• Continuation of special permit hearing for agricultural development at 205 Lower Hampden Rd, Map 77, Parcel 1, owned by Douglas and Keri Delisle
• Special permit sought under Section 6.6 of the Town of Monson Zoning Bylaw

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted to approve Ron Florek's special permit for earth removal at 149 Stafford Rd, with David Beaudoin abstaining. The board also accepted two withdrawals without prejudice: Dana Casher's variance request for a lean-to at 75 Thayer Rd, and Douglas and Keri Delisle's special permit application for agricultural development at 205 Lower Hampden Rd. Minutes from March 25 were approved, and bills were paid.

• Approved special permit for earth removal for Ron Florek at 149 Stafford Rd (all in favor, Beaudoin abstained)
• Accepted withdrawal without prejudice of Dana Casher's variance application for 75 Thayer Rd (all in favor)
• Accepted withdrawal without prejudice of Delisle special permit application for 205 Lower Hampden Rd, contingent on wet signature (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from March 25 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved payment of bills (all in favor)

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen is meeting remotely to consider opening the Special Town Meeting warrant and will hold an executive session to discuss strategy regarding non-union personnel. The agenda contains only these two items, with no other substantive business listed.

• Open Special Town Meeting (STM) warrant
• Executive session to discuss strategy on non-union personnel (M.G.L. c.30A, Sec21(2))

The Board unanimously voted to open the Special Town Meeting Warrant. In executive session, the Board discussed Town Administrator Jennifer Wolowicz's employment contract, agreeing on a $120,000 starting salary, 5 weeks of vacation, a $50 weekly car allowance, and a 1-year review period. A motion by Mary Hull to delay negotiations pending an investigation failed for lack of a second. The contract will be drafted and reviewed by town counsel.

• Opened Special Town Meeting Warrant (3-0)
• Agreed to $120,000 starting salary for Town Administrator
• Agreed to 5 weeks vacation for Town Administrator
• Agreed to $50 weekly car allowance for Town Administrator
• Agreed to 1-year review period for Town Administrator
• Motion to delay contract negotiations until investigation complete failed (no second)

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen will conduct interviews for the Town Administrator position and make a decision on the candidates. The board will also review the FY22 budget, discuss a license change for Echo Hill Winery, and consider a request to remove Monson from the Veteran's District.

• Town Administrator interviews with Anna Levine, Arthur Robert, and Jennifer L. Wolowicz
• Gift to the Town Account for Senior Class Coins purchase - $831.50
• Monson Fire Department Building Committee architectural recommendation
• Echo Hill Winery request for amendment change of license classification
• FY22 Budget Review with Finance Director Farnum

The Select Board interviewed three candidates for Town Administrator and voted 2-1 to extend the offer to Interim Town Administrator Jennifer Wolowicz, with Mary Hull dissenting. In executive session, the board approved a salary offer of $120,000. The board also approved $831.50 for senior class coins, selected Tecton Architects for the fire department project, approved liquor license changes for Echo Hill Winery, set the Annual Town Meeting for May 10, and voted 2-1 to withdraw from the Veterans District (motion failed 2-1).

• Offered Town Administrator position to Jennifer Wolowicz (2-1, Hull nay)
• Approved $120,000 salary offer for Town Administrator (2-1, Hull nay)
• Approved $831.50 for senior class coins from Gifts to Town account (3-0)
• Approved Tecton Architects for fire department design services at $38,000 (3-0)
• Approved 19E and 19H liquor license change for Echo Hill Winery (3-0)
• Set Annual/Special Town Meeting for May 10 at 6 p.m. at Granite Valley School (3-0)
• Reduced Town Meeting quorum from 50 to 25 (3-0)
• Motion to withdraw from Veterans District failed (2-1, Smith nay)

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen is holding a remote meeting on April 7, 2021. The only substantive item is a joint meeting with the Monson School Committee to fill a vacancy on the Pathfinder School Committee. The rest of the agenda is procedural, including remote participation details.

• Joint meeting with Monson School Committee to fill Pathfinder School Committee vacancy

The Monson Board of Selectmen and School Committee held a joint meeting and interviewed the sole applicant, Anthony Allard, for the Pathfinder School Committee vacancy. The board voted unanimously to appoint Allard to the position, which will run until the next election. Allard was instructed to follow up with the Town Clerk to be sworn in.

• Appointed Anthony Allard to the Pathfinder School Committee vacancy until the next election (unanimous roll call vote).
• Closed the Select Board portion of the joint meeting at 7:20 p.m.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a remote meeting on March 25, 2021, continuing two public hearings from February 25 and considering a new variance application. The board will also handle other business such as the bill schedule.

• Continuation of public hearing for Ronald Florek's special permit for earth removal at 149 Stafford Rd (Map 101, Parcel 2; Map 80, Parcel 21)
• Continuation of public hearing for Douglas and Keri Delisle's special permit for agricultural development at 205 Lower Hampden Rd (Map 77, Parcel 1)
• Application by Dana Casher for a variance to install a 12' x 24' canopied lean-to at 75 Thayer Rd (Map 6, Parcel 11D)

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for earth removal at 149 Stafford Rd, subject to bond approval by the town attorney. The board continued hearings for two other applications—an agricultural development at 205 Lower Hampden Rd and a variance for a lean-to at 75 Thayer Rd—to April 22, 2021, citing the need for more information.

• Approved special permit for earth removal at 149 Stafford Rd, conditioned on bond and bond language approved by town attorney (all in favor, Beaudoin abstained)
• Continued public hearing for agricultural development at 205 Lower Hampden Rd to 4/22/21 (all in favor)
• Continued variance hearing for canopied lean-to at 75 Thayer Rd to 4/22/21 (all in favor)

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen is meeting remotely to handle new business including pole petitions from National Grid, an update on the town administrator search, a request from Echo Hill Winery to change its license classification, and a potential land acquisition on Reimers Road. The board will also discuss a handbook for boards and committees, in-person meeting logistics, and an open warrant for the Annual Town Meeting. Routine items include signing correspondence, bills, and warrants, followed by executive session discussions on personnel and collective bargaining.

• Pole petitions from National Grid for North Main Street and Old Reed Road
• Town Administrator search update from Bernie Lynch of Community Paradigm
• Echo Hill Winery request to amend license classification
• Brouthers land acquisition on Reimers Road discussed with Conservation Commission Chair Glenn Colburn
• Open warrant for Annual Town Meeting

The Board of Selectmen voted 2-1 to delay interviews for the town administrator position until after the June 8 town election, despite concerns about losing candidates. The board also approved two National Grid pole petitions, authorized negotiations for a land acquisition adjacent to the Quinlan conservation area, and accepted a handbook for boards, committees, and commissions.

• Approved meeting minutes of March 9, 2021 (open session).
• Approved pole petition #29477141 (North Main Street) as presented.
• Approved pole petition #30332185 (Old Reed Road) as presented.
• Voted 2-1 to wait until after June 8 election to interview town administrator finalists.
• Authorized Conservation Commission Chair Glenn Colburn to negotiate on behalf of the town for the Brouthers land acquisition on Reimers Road.
• Accepted the handbook for Boards, Committees, and Commissions as written.
• Opened the Annual Town Meeting warrant effective immediately, closing on April 13.
• Adjourned from open session at 8:40 p.m.

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board will hold a remote meeting on March 16, 2021, at 7:00 PM. The main items are an ANR plan for two lots on Reimers Rd and a continued public hearing for a 100-foot wireless tower on Lakeside Dr. The board will also discuss housing production legislation, marijuana bylaws, and other administrative matters.

• ANR plan for Lots 1A and 2A on Reimers Rd
• Continued public hearing for Vertex Tower Assets LLC: 100-ft monopole tower on Lakeside Dr (Map 052, Parcel 024)
• Continuation to 4/20/21 of Cote Rd public hearing for a 100-ft tower at 94 Cote Rd (Map 052, Parcel 028)
• Discussion of Housing Production Legislation and Monson Marijuana Bylaws
• Authorized signers for ANR/Subdivisions

The Planning Board closed the public hearing and approved Vertex Tower Assets' proposal for a 100-foot wireless tower on Lakeside Dr, subject to conditions including a positive review from town consultant Tighe and Bond, Conservation Commission approval, Town Council bond review, third-party erosion inspections, revised plans, and compliance with all laws. The board also approved an ANR plan for Reimers Rd and accepted February minutes as amended.

• Approved ANR plan for Reimers Rd (Brouthers Property) after confirming frontage and setback compliance
• Approved minutes from 2/16/21 as amended
• Closed public hearing for Vertex Tower Assets' site plan and special permit application
• Approved Vertex Tower Assets' proposal with six conditions, including Tighe and Bond review, Conservation Commission approval, and Town Council bond review
• Discussed but took no vote on housing production legislation, adult-use marijuana bylaws, and grant opportunities

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen is meeting remotely to handle routine business and several new items. Key actions include setting the 2021 election dates, considering a name change from Board of Selectmen to Selectboard, and authorizing snow and ice deficit spending. The board will also discuss pole petitions, a stormwater easement, and enter executive session for personnel and litigation strategy.

• Pole petitions for Hancock Road and Robbins Road (National Grid)
• Set 2021 election dates
• Name change from Board of Selectmen to Selectboard
• Stormwater easement at 48 Paradise Lake Road
• Authorization for snow and ice deficit spending

The Board approved a drainage easement at 48 Lake Paradise Road, authorized an additional $50,000 in snow and ice deficit spending, and voted to place a warrant article on the May 10 Town Meeting to change the board's name to Select Board. It also approved two National Grid pole petitions and set the annual town election for June 8.

• Approved pole petition #30282597 (Hancock Road) (3-0)
• Approved pole petition #3031602 (Robbins Road) (3-0)
• Approved placing unexpired School Committee term on June 8 ballot (3-0)
• Approved warrant article to rename Board of Selectmen to Select Board (3-0)
• Approved drainage easement at 48 Lake Paradise Road (3-0)
• Authorized additional $50,000 snow and ice deficit spending (3-0)
• Approved Municipal Modernization Act article for snow/ice spending (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Monson Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a remote meeting on February 25, 2021, starting at 7:00 PM. The board will conduct two public hearings: one at 7:05 PM for Ronald Florek's request for a special permit for earth removal at 149 Stafford Rd, and another at 7:20 PM for Douglas and Keri Delisle's request for a special permit for agricultural development at 205 Lower Hampden Rd. Both properties are in the Residential Rural district. The board will also discuss other business, including the bill schedule and postage.

• Public hearing: Ronald Florek, Special Permit for Earth Removal, 149 Stafford Rd, Map 101, Parcel 2
• Public hearing: Douglas and Keri Delisle, Special Permit for agricultural development, 205 Lower Hampden Rd, Map 77, Parcel 1
• Both hearings are remote; no in-person attendance, with public access via Zoom or phone
• Other business: Bill schedule and postage

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted to continue both public hearings to March 25, 2021. The first, for Douglas and Keri Delisle's agricultural special permit at 205 Lower Hampden Rd, was continued at the applicant's request to honor abutter notification. The second, for Ronald Florek's earth removal special permit at 149 Stafford Rd, was continued to allow for plan updates. The board also approved a $37.00 postage bill.

• Continued Delisle special permit hearing to 3/25/21
• Continued Florek special permit hearing to 3/25/21
• Approved $37.00 payment to US Postal Service

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen will meet to approve prior meeting minutes, consider a funding request from the Monson Arts Council, and discuss the temporary town administrator role and responsibilities. The board will also handle routine business such as signing correspondence, bills, and warrants, and will hold an executive session to discuss strategy on non-union personnel and collective bargaining or litigation.

• Approve minutes from Feb 9 and Feb 16, 2020 sessions
• Monson Arts Council funding request
• Temporary Town Administrator role discussion
• Executive session on non-union personnel strategy
• Executive session on collective bargaining or litigation

The Monson Select Board approved a $2,000 allocation from the Gifts to the Town Account to the Monson Arts Council for renovations to the northwest front room of the House of Art. The board also discussed the interim town administrator's role, agreeing she should maintain operations without major changes. Meeting minutes from February 16 were approved, while February 9 minutes were passed over. The board agreed the interim administrator would attend a one-day hearing officer class in April.

• Approved $2,000 from Gifts to the Town Account for House of Art renovations (3-0)
• Approved February 16, 2021 open session meeting minutes (3-0)
• Passed over February 9, 2021 executive session minutes (not submitted)
• Agreed interim town administrator to attend hearing officer class in April (unanimous)

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen is meeting to approve minutes, vote on placing an unexpired School Committee term on the ballot, and consider contracts for the police and fire chiefs. They will also discuss appointing a temporary town administrator, review the budget, and authorize snow and ice deficit spending. The agenda includes routine business and an executive session for personnel and collective bargaining strategy.

• School Committee ballot vote for unexpired term
• Police Chief's contract
• Fire Chief's contract
• Appointment of temporary town administrator
• Authorization for snow and ice deficit spending

The Monson Select Board unanimously approved new three-year contracts for Police Chief Stephen Kozloski and Fire Chief Brian Harris, effective July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024. The board also approved a contract for Jennifer Wolowicz as Interim Town Administrator, authorized $50,000 for snow and ice deficit spending, and voted to place an unexpired School Committee term on the ballot. In executive session, the board approved a reclassification of the Administrative Assistant position to Office Manager/Utility Billing Coordinator, Grade 10.

• Approved Police Chief Stephen Kozloski's contract for July 1, 2021-June 30, 2024 (3-0)
• Approved Fire Chief Brian Harris's contract for July 1, 2021-June 30, 2024 (3-0)
• Approved contract with Jennifer Wolowicz as Interim Town Administrator (3-0)
• Approved $50,000 for snow and ice deficit spending (3-0)
• Approved placing unexpired School Committee term on ballot for Town Meeting (3-0)
• Approved reclassification of Administrative Assistant to Office Manager/Utility Billing Coordinator, Grade 10 (3-0)

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board meets remotely to review two Approval Not Required (ANR) plans and continue a public hearing on a proposed 100-foot wireless communications tower on Lakeside Drive. The board will also consider a bill schedule and minutes from the previous meeting. Annual board organization is postponed to a future in-person meeting.

• ANR plan for 21 King Street, reconfiguring parcels into Lot 11D Revised and Lot D1 Revised
• ANR plan to divide Lot 10 on Moulton Hill Road, creating Lot 13 and Lot 12 (home at #245 Moulton Hill Road)
• Continued public hearing for Vertex Tower Assets LLC: 100-foot monopole tower on Lakeside Dr, Map 052, Parcel 024 (Rural Residential district)
• Bill schedule: Turley Publications
• Minutes from 1/19/21 meeting

The Monson Planning Board approved two Approval Not Required (ANR) plans: one for a lot-line reconfiguration at 21 King Street and another dividing Lot 10 on Moulton Hill Road. The board also continued the public hearing for the Vertex Tower Assets LLC cell tower proposal to March 16, 2021, after discussing site plan and special permit criteria. No final decision was made on the tower.

• Approved ANR plan for 21 King Street lot-line reconfiguration (all in favor)
• Approved ANR plan dividing Lot 10 on Moulton Hill Road into Lots 11, 12, and 13 (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from 1/19/2021 meeting (all in favor)
• Granted continuance of Vertex Tower public hearing to 4/20/21 (all in favor)
• Granted further continuance of Vertex Tower hearing to 3/16/21 (all in favor)

Select Board

The Monson Board of Selectmen is meeting to conduct interviews for a temporary town administrator and for a school committee vacancy, and to hold a virtual meet and greet with the assistant town clerk. The board will also approve prior meeting minutes, sign correspondence, bills, and warrants, and enter executive session to discuss non-union personnel and collective bargaining or litigation strategy.

• Interviews for temporary town administrator
• Joint meeting with School Committee to interview candidates for a vacancy
• Virtual meet and greet with Assistant Town Clerk
• Approve minutes from January 26, 2021 (executive session) and February 2, 2020 (open and executive sessions)
• Executive session on non-union personnel and collective bargaining/litigation strategy

The Select Board voted 2-1 to offer the interim town administrator position to Jennifer Wolowicz, contingent on a contract agreement. The board also jointly appointed Jackie Watts to fill a School Committee vacancy until the June 2021 town election. Minutes from prior meetings were approved, and the board entered executive session to discuss the contract.

• Approved minutes of Jan 26 and Feb 2, 2021 (3-0)
• Appointed Jennifer Wolowicz as interim town administrator (2-1)
• Appointed Jackie Watts to School Committee vacancy (5-2)
• Authorized Town Administrator to negotiate Wolowicz's contract (3-0)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will hold a regular meeting on February 2, 2021, via Zoom. Under new business, the board will consider appointing an Assistant Town Accountant and vote on issuing a municipal bond as authorized by a prior Town Meeting vote. The board will then enter executive session to discuss strategy on non-union personnel and collective bargaining or litigation.

• Appointment of Assistant Town Accountant
• Vote on municipal bond issuance authorized by Town Meeting
• Executive session on non-union personnel strategy
• Executive session on collective bargaining or litigation strategy

The Select Board unanimously appointed Caitlyn Wojcik as Assistant Town Accountant effective immediately through June 30, 2021. The board also approved votes regarding the issuance of a municipal bond as authorized by Town Meeting. In executive session, the board unanimously approved a new contract for Fire Chief Brian Harris at $110,000 per year with 2% raises in years 2 and 3.

• Appointed Caitlyn Wojcik as Assistant Town Accountant (3-0)
• Approved votes regarding municipal bond issuance (3-0)
• Approved Fire Chief salary at $110,000/year with 2% raises in years 2 and 3 (3-0)

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to handle routine business and discuss two new items: the search for a town administrator and a possible burn permit policy. The board will also approve prior meeting minutes and sign correspondence, warrants, and bills. An executive session is scheduled to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy.

• Approve minutes of January 19, 2020 open session
• Town Administrator search discussion
• Burn permit discussion
• Sign correspondence, warrants, and bills
• Executive session on collective bargaining or litigation

The Select Board voted unanimously to close the town office building to the public on Mondays following a Thursday state COVID report showing the town in the red zone. The board also kept the $10 fee for two-day burning permits and discussed the ongoing search for a new town administrator.

• Approved minutes of January 19, 2021 (3-0)
• Kept burning permit fee at $10 for two-day permits (3-0)
• Voted to close town office to public when town is in red COVID status (3-0)
• Agreed to review proposed job description changes in executive session on Feb. 9

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is meeting to handle routine business and discuss two main items: the ongoing town administrator search and a continued discussion about repairing the Dave Grieve Park clock, which involves a gifts-to-the-town request. The board will also approve prior meeting minutes and sign correspondence, bills, and warrants. An executive session is scheduled to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy.

• Approve minutes of January 12, 2020 open session
• Town Administrator search discussion
• Repair of Dave Grieve Park clock — gifts to the town request, continued discussion
• Sign warrants, bills, and correspondence
• Executive session on collective bargaining or litigation (M.G.L. c.30A, Sec21(3))

The Monson Select Board unanimously approved spending $5,290 from the Gifts to the Town Account to repair the Dave Grieve Park clock. The board also voted to open a posting for an interim town administrator and to form a five-employee committee to screen candidates, while continuing with Paradigm Associates for the full-time search.

• Approved $5,290 from Gifts to the Town Account to repair Dave Grieve Park clock (unanimous)
• Voted to open posting for interim town administrator position for up to seven days (unanimous)
• Voted to form committee of five employees to screen interim town administrator candidates (unanimous)
• Accepted meeting minutes of January 12, 2021 (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Monson Planning Board is meeting remotely to continue two public hearings on proposed 100-foot wireless communications towers: one on Lakeside Dr and one on Cote Rd. The board will also discuss an ANR plan for Sunnybrook Drive and a right-of-way on Whitney Ave. The meeting is being held remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions.

• ANR Plan for Sunnybrook Drive, continued from 12/15/20, for Map 99 Parcel 8
• Public hearing continued for Vertex Tower Assets LLC: 100-ft tower on Lakeside Dr, Map 052 Parcel 024
• Public hearing continued for a 100-ft tower at 94 Cote Rd, Map 052 Parcel 028
• Open discussion on 1F/1R Whitney Ave right of way
• Annual organization of the board postponed to next in-person meeting