Monson public meetings in 2024

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold a regular business meeting to discuss and act on several items. Key agenda items include setting substitute pay rates for teaching and food service, reviewing the local graduation plan and MCAS competency determination, and voting on an interim superintendent agreement after an executive session for negotiations.

• Discussion of sub pay rates for teaching and food service (New Business)
• Discussion of local graduation plan and MCAS competency determination (New Business)
• Update on interim superintendent search and advocacy letter for vocational transportation costs (Old Business)
• Executive session for strategy and contract negotiations with nonunion personnel (Interim Superintendent)
• Return to open session to vote on Interim Superintendent agreement

School Committee

The School Committee's Finance Subcommittee will discuss the proposed fiscal year 2026 operating budget and the separate FY26 transportation budget. No votes are scheduled; the meeting is a working session to review preliminary figures.

• Discussion of FY26 school operating budget
• Discussion of FY26 transportation budget

School Committee

This subcommittee meeting consists solely of a call to order and an executive session to conduct strategy sessions for negotiations with the interim superintendent, a nonunion position. No public votes or other business are scheduled.

• Executive session under M.G.L. c. 30A, section 21(a)(2) for negotiations with nonunion personnel (Interim Superintendent)

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold a regular business meeting on December 13, 2024, at 7:00 PM via Zoom. The sole listed action is a vote to appoint a bargaining representative or representatives for superintendent contract negotiations. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Vote to appoint bargaining representative(s) for Superintendent contract negotiations

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Monson Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss updates on the pool/aquatics manager and basketball programs, and debate a sports registration policy. They will also address public comments, accounts receivable, and a director's report.

• Pool aquatics/manager update
• Basketball update
• Sports registration policy discussion
• Accounts receivable
• Public session

The Monson Parks & Recreation Commission approved the previous meeting minutes and discussed several updates. A new Aquatics Manager was hired and will start in January after a pre-planned vacation. A discussion about changing team selection methods was tabled to a future meeting. The commission also discussed restroom usage at Quarry Hill, budget concerns for FY26, and future projects including dugouts at Flynt 2 and a playground guardrail at Flynt Park funded by ARPA money.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Hired new Aquatics Manager (starting January)
• Tabled team selection changes to future meeting
• Discussed restroom usage at Quarry Hill (reminder to use locker rooms)
• Noted no FY26 budget information provided to director
• Director to apply for CPC funds for dugouts at Flynt 2
• Secured ARPA funds for playground guardrail at Flynt Park

Cemetery Commission

The Monson Cemetery Commission will discuss a proposal to no longer allow do-it-yourself cremation burials, continuing a review of the price list for services. They will also receive a report on Town Counsel's review of the Cemetery Use Policy and rules, and address a letter about dead trees at Hillside. Routine business includes signing bills and deeds.

• Proposal to disallow DIY cremation burials
• Continuing discussion on price list for services
• Report on Town Counsel's review of Cemetery Use Policy and rules
• Letter about dead trees at the top of Hillside
• Review of equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings

The Monson Cemetery Commission voted unanimously to prohibit do-it-yourself cremation burials, citing liability concerns and the need for licensed funeral homes. The commission also tabled discussion on the Cemetery Use Policy until January, and approved seeking a grant for digitizing cemetery records.

• Approved ban on DIY cremation burials (unanimous)
• Tabled Cemetery Use Policy review until January meeting (unanimous)
• Approved seeking grant for digitizing cemetery maps, photos, documents (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from November 7, 2024 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a regular public meeting to consider routine items including motor vehicle and trailer excise abatements, sign approvals for Chapter 61/61A/61B, and personal exemption policy. They will also review minutes, accounting reports, and correspondence from the Town Council. No major decisions or fiscal actions beyond standard administrative duties are listed.

• Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Abatements
• Sign Approval list 61, 61A, & 61B
• Personal Exemption Policy discussion
• Sign Personal Exemptions for Veteran, Senior, Blind, SWAP
• Unregistered Vehicles item

The Board of Assessors approved multiple accounting reports, tax commitments, abatements, and exemption applications. It also approved FY26 Chapter 61, 61A, and 61B land reports and signed related DCR certificates. The board denied two real estate exemption applications and discussed unregistered vehicle policy for a future meeting.

• Approved Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #06 ($18,662.53)
• Approved FY25 Real Estate Tax Commitment ($8,251,382.70)
• Approved FY25 Personal Property Tax Commitment ($315,910.85)
• Approved FY25 CPA Surcharge Commitment ($167,968.20)
• Approved November 2024 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Abatements ($1,898.89)
• Approved FY26 Chapter 61, 61A, and 61B reports (3, 13, and 18 applicants)
• Denied two FY25 Real Estate Exemption Applications
• Approved FY25 SWAP Abatements ($5,060.53)

Conservation Commission

The Monson Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several applications under the Wetlands Protection Act, including an amendment to an order of conditions for a home on Cedar Swamp Road, requests for determination of applicability, and notices of intent for septic repairs and new construction. The commission will also have an informal discussion about a proposed addition to the fire station at 200 Main St. Other items include unpermitted clearing and a certificate of compliance request.

• Amendment to Order of Conditions for Lot#12 Cedar Swamp Road (single-family home in buffer zone)
• Request for Determination of Applicability at 20 Park Ave (temporary garage in riverfront area)
• Notices of Intent for septic system repairs at 287 Wilbraham Rd and 6 Crow Hill Rd
• Notice of Intent for new single-family home at Bumstead Rd
• Informal discussion on proposed addition to Monson Fire Station at 200 Main St

The Commission approved an amended Order of Conditions for Lot 12 Cedar Swamp Road, allowing a revised driveway plan with added erosion controls. It also issued a negative determination for a temporary garage at 20 Park Ave, approved septic system repairs at 287 Wilbraham Rd and 6 Crow Hill Rd, and continued a hearing for a new home on Bumstead Rd. The Commission discussed unpermitted clearing at 137 Maxwell Road and a fire station renovation proposal.

• Approved amended Order of Conditions for Lot 12 Cedar Swamp Road (5-0)
• Issued Negative Determination #2 for 20 Park Ave temporary garage (5-0)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for 287 Wilbraham Rd septic repair (5-0)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for 6 Crow Hill Rd septic repair, contingent on revised plan (5-0)
• Continued Bumstead Rd NOI hearing to January 8, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 17 and August 7, 2024 meetings (5-0)

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to discuss the budget for fiscal year 2026. The body will also address substitute pay rates for food service and teaching staff.

• Discussion of FY 26 budget
• Substitute pay rates for teaching and food service

School Committee

The School Committee will interview candidates and vote to appoint an Interim Superintendent. The meeting includes an executive session to negotiate the employment agreement for the position.

• Interviews for Interim Superintendent candidates
• Vote on the appointment of an Interim Superintendent
• Executive session for contract negotiations with nonunion personnel

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss non-union employee cost of living increases for FY26 and requests for final American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The board will also review a pavement management report and the use of Memorial Hall for temporary fire department housing.

• Non-Union Employees Cost of Living Increase for FY26
• American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Final Funds Request
• Use of Memorial Hall for Temporary Housing Fire Department
• Pavement Management Report
• Declaration of Surplus Property for Keep Homestead Museum Barn Contents

The Monson Select Board voted to allow the fire department to use Memorial Hall for temporary housing during the fire station building project, including necessary preparation work. The board also approved several ARPA-funded expenditures, a 1.5% COLA for non-union employees, and numerous annual license renewals.

• Approved $2,500 from Gifts to the Town account for toy drive and senior bags
• Approved temporary housing for fire department in Memorial Hall during building project
• Approved 1.5% COLA for non-union employees for FY26
• Approved $10,000 ARPA funds for fire equipment (AEDs, active shooter equipment)
• Approved $7,280 ARPA funds for Flynt Park playground guardrail
• Approved $57,000 ARPA funds for technology (records digitalization, software, key card system)
• Approved annual liquor, entertainment, and other license renewals for 2025
• Approved early dismissal for employees on Christmas Eve

Cemetery Commission

The Monson Cemetery Commission will meet to accept prior minutes, discuss dead trees at Hillside Cemetery, and review a Town Counsel review of current cemetery policies and rules. They will also continue discussing service pricing, propose banning DIY cremation burials, and assess the condition of equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings.

• Accept minutes from 11-7-24 meeting
• Address letter about dead trees at Hillside Cemetery
• Review Town Counsel’s Cemetery Use Policy and rules
• Continue discussion on price list for cemetery services
• Propose banning DIY cremation burials

School Committee

The Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the FY 26 budget. The committee will also review substitute pay rates for teaching and food service staff.

• Discussion of FY 26 budget
• Substitute pay rates for teaching
• Substitute pay rates for food service

American Rescue Plan Act Committee (ARPA)

The American Rescue Plan Act Committee will review the status of current projects and consider new project requests. The committee intends to provide final recommendations to the Select Board.

• Approval of September 23 and November 1, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of current project status
• Evaluation of new project requests
• Final recommendations to the Select Board

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board holds a routine administrative meeting to approve minutes, warrants, financial balances, and new retirement allowances. Key actions include reaffirming warrants totaling $5,052,101.18, approving a $2.5 million transfer from the PRIT fund, and considering new retirement applications. The board will also review and vote on the 2025 budget and set meeting dates for next year.

• Warrants totaling $5,052,101.18 for salaries, member compensation, refunds, expenses, and allowances
• Transfer of $2,500,000 from PRIT fund to Money Market account
• Approval of new retirement allowances for six individuals including Sonia Diamanti (Palmer) and Philip Levesque (East Longmeadow)
• Nine new retirement applications considered, including Deborah Russo (Palmer) and Robert P. White (SWTRSD)
• Review and vote on 2025 budget and board meeting dates

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold a regular business meeting. New business includes discussion of a therapy dog policy, a presentation on a potential 2026 Spain field trip for MHS students, substitute pay rates for teaching and food service, and a letter to the governor regarding non-resident vocational school transportation. Old business includes the interim superintendent search. The committee will also review minutes from November 13 and take public comment.

• Interim superintendent search (old business)
• Therapy dog policy (new business)
• Presentation on a MHS field trip to Spain for spring 2026 (new business)
• Substitute pay rate for teaching and food service (new business)
• Letter to the governor on non-resident vocational school transportation (new business)

National Grid Notices of Public Hearings

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities is holding public hearings on proposed three-year energy efficiency plans (2025-2027) filed by Eversource and National Grid. The plans aim to reduce energy use and greenhouse gases, with a proposed statewide investment of about $5 billion. Residents can comment at in-person hearings in Worcester, New Bedford, and Boston, or at a virtual hearing on December 5.

• Eversource proposes a $388.6 million budget for its three-year plan, with projected bill impacts ranging from a $18.48 increase in 2025 to a $3.97 increase in 2027 for residential heating customers.
• Statewide, all program administrators together propose to invest approximately $5 billion, claiming $13 billion in customer benefits.
• National Grid (Boston Gas) also filed a similar three-year efficiency plan, but its specific budget and bill impacts are not detailed in the agenda.
• In-person hearings: Dec 3 in Worcester, Dec 4 in New Bedford, Dec 5 in Boston; virtual hearing Dec 5 at 2 PM via Zoom.
• Interpretation services available in multiple languages at each hearing.

Community Preservation Committee

The Monson Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve minutes and bills, set the next application deadline for February 18, 2025, and receive updates on the 28 Bridge Street and Hillside Cemetery Vault projects. No votes on funding or new applications are scheduled.

• Setting next application deadline for February 18, 2025
• Update on 28 Bridge Street Project
• Update on Hillside Cemetery Vault Project
• Approval of minutes from October 1, 2024
• Bill schedule approval

Memorial Hall Renovation Committee

The Memorial Hall Renovation Committee will hold a discussion with the Select Board regarding proposed projects for Memorial Hall. No decisions or specific project details are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion with Select Board about proposed projects for Memorial Hall

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will hold a regular meeting on November 26, 2024, with public comment, approval of prior minutes, and old business including ratification of an emergency meeting vote from November 1. New business items include the potential use of Memorial Hall as temporary housing for the Fire Department (presented by Chief Harris) and selection of a polling location for the June 2025 local election. Routine business includes initialing bills and warrants.

• Ratify vote of November 1, 2024 Emergency Select Board Meeting
• Review policy on signs on town property (final version)
• Bylaw Committee work deadline for submission
• Use of Memorial Hall for temporary Fire Department housing — Chief Harris
• June 2025 local election polling location — Clerk Watson

Cultural Council

The Monson Cultural Council will meet to review 2024 programs, discuss finances, and consider 2025 grant applications along with fund allocation. New members will be introduced and community input will be sought.

• Review of 2024 programs and finances
• Discussion and allocation of 2025 grant monies
• Update on affiliation status with LCC program guidelines

General Bylaw Committee

The committee will approve minutes from Nov 18 and continue discussion on formatting the order of articles and any updates. The main action is final approval of the definitions section of the general bylaws. No fiscal or property-specific items are on this agenda.

• Approval of minutes from Nov 18, 2024
• Continued discussion on formatting article order
• Discussion on any updates to the articles
• Final approval of the definitions
• Any other business before the committee

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Monson Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to hear updates on pool aquatics, basketball gym use, the ice rink, and a CPC project. They will also review the FY25 budget and begin planning the FY26 budget timeline. The meeting includes public session and director's report.

• Pool aquatics/manager update
• Basketball gym use update
• Ice rink operations update
• CPC project update
• FY25 budget update and FY26 timeline discussion

Historical Commission

The Monson Historical Commission will meet to review minutes from the August meeting and receive an update from the Memorial Hall Committee. The commission is also scheduled to discuss a demolition delay regarding 96 Main Street.

• Demolition delay for 96 Main Street
• Memorial Hall Committee update

School Committee

The Finance Subcommittee of the Monson School Committee will meet to discuss FY25 expenditures and planning for the FY26 budget. The agenda lists only discussion, with no voting items or public hearings scheduled.

• Discussion of FY 25 expenditures and FY 26 budget

School Committee

The Monson School Committee is holding a working meeting to discuss the process for finding an interim superintendent.

• Discuss interim superintendent search/process

Conservation Commission

The Monson Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding agricultural field re-establishment and a home construction amendment. The body will also review requests for certificates of compliance and address unpermitted structures and clearing.

• Public hearing: Request for Determination of Applicability for agricultural fields at 175 State Ave
• Public hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions for a single-family home at Lot# 12 Cedar Swamp Road
• Certificate of Compliance request for 57 Town Farm Road
• Review of unpermitted structure at 20 Park Ave
• Review of unpermitted clearing in riverfront area at 137 Maxwell Road

Memorial Hall Renovation Committee

The Memorial Hall Renovation Committee will discuss the Veterans Heritage Grant, review new quotes for paint and window work, and consider lowering brass wall monuments for better accessibility. Other topics include chandelier repairs, small repairs, and volunteer cleaning days.

• Approve minutes from October 15
• Veterans Heritage Grant
• New quotes for GAR and stairwell paint, outdoor iron paint, window in main hall
• Discuss chandelier (models 28771 or 25853 from vintagehardware.com) and lowering device
• Discuss lowering brass wall monuments for readability

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

The Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors will hold a regular meeting to approve prior minutes, review the financial report, and discuss old and new business. Old business includes updates on 2024 programs and several projects (upstairs computer, pole light, shades, personal PA system, sculptures). New business covers volunteer hours.

• Financial report review
• Project updates: upstairs computer, pole light, shades, personal PA system, sculptures
• Discussion of volunteer hours

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee will approve minutes from the previous meeting and continue its discussion on Article 8 (Penalties), aiming to finalize definitions. The committee will also discuss renumbering the articles and consider any other business.

• Approval of minutes from Nov 4, 2024
• Continued discussion on Article 8: Penalties
• Finalize definitions for Article 8
• Discussion on renumbering the Articles

The Monson Bylaw Committee met and approved the previous meeting's minutes. They made grammatical and formatting corrections to several articles and added definitions, but made no substantive changes to any bylaw. The committee continued discussing how to group articles for a new index and scheduled next steps.

• Approved November 4 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Made grammatical and formatting corrections to articles 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 13, 20, 23, 25, 26, 34
• Added definitions to list of included words
• Continued discussion on grouping articles for new index

Board of Registrars

The Board of Registrars will meet to discuss and perform a hand count of Federal Write In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) applications as required by the Secretary of Commonwealth.

• Hand count of Federal Write In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) applications

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk's office will tabulate ballots received by the November 8 deadline with a postmark of November 5. This is a procedural step required by law. The public is welcome to observe.

• Tabulation of ballots received by Nov. 8 with Nov. 5 postmark

Water / Sewer Commission

The Commission will review and accept meeting minutes from September 11, 2024. Old business includes updates on the meter replacement project, water and sewer budget articles for the Special Town Meeting, the Old Wales Road Dam, water management registration, NPDES permit assistance, Main Street reconstruction, fire department reconstruction, and staffing. New business covers department activity and topics not anticipated 48 hours in advance.

• Meter replacement project update
• Water & Sewer budget articles for Special Town Meeting
• Old Wales Road Dam status
• National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit assistance
• Main Street reconstruction and Fire Department reconstruction updates

MA Department of Transportation (DOT)

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is hosting a virtual design public hearing for the replacement of the bridge carrying State Avenue (Monson) and Bridge Street (Palmer) over the Quaboag River. The hearing will present the new bridge design, which includes wider travel lanes, shoulders, and an expanded sidewalk, and will accept public comments and questions. The project requires right-of-way acquisitions, and written statements must be submitted by November 27, 2024, for inclusion in the hearing transcript.

• Bridge replacement project (M-27-007=P-01-007) over the Quaboag River connecting State Avenue in Monson to Bridge Street in Palmer
• New bridge will be wider, adding shoulders and increasing sidewalk width on the southern side
• Temporary impacts on motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists during construction
• Right-of-way acquisitions (fee and easements) may be required, with the municipality responsible for acquiring needed private or public lands
• Public comments accepted via email or mail until 10 business days after the hearing (November 27, 2024)

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will discuss and interview candidates for the acting superintendent position, then vote on the appointment in open session. They will also discuss the 2025 graduation date. An executive session is scheduled to prepare for negotiations with the acting superintendent candidate before the final vote.

• Vote on acting superintendent position after interviews
• Discussion of 2025 graduation date
• Executive session for strategy on nonunion personnel negotiations (acting superintendent)
• Return to open session to vote on agreement for acting superintendent position
• Public comment period

School Committee

The Monson School Committee's Curriculum Subcommittee is meeting to discuss updates on Comprehensive Health and Physical Education standards, curriculum adoption, and curriculum mapping. The agenda contains only discussion items with no votes, public hearings, or financial decisions.

• Comprehensive Health & PE standards work
• Curriculum Adoption Update
• Curriculum Mapping Update

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will hold public hearings on the FY25 Tax Classification and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program status. Old business includes reviewing policies on signs and work-off abatement programs for seniors and veterans, plus an ARPA update. New business items include responding to an Open Meeting Law complaint by Roxanne Gunther dated November 38, 2024, and discussing the Bradway Road and Butler Road forest fire. Routine approvals of minutes and warrants are also scheduled.

• Public Hearing: FY25 Tax Classification Hearing — Assessor Pehoviak
• Public Hearing: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Status Updates — Joe Hagopian, PVPC
• Review Policies: Signs on Town Property, Senior Work Off Abatement Program, Veterans Work Off Abatement Program
• Review, Consider and Vote on Response to Open Meeting Law Complaint against Select Board dated November 38, 2024 filed by Roxanne Gunther
• Bradway Road and Butler Road Forest Fire — Chief Harris; lift state of emergency

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a public hearing on FY25 tax classification after reviewing tax classification information. The meeting also includes a public comment period and scheduling of the next meeting.

• FY25 Tax Classification Public Hearing at 6:55 p.m.
• Tax Classification Information Review
• Public comment period limited to 30 minutes and 6 speakers
• Schedule next meeting

Cemetery Commission

This is a regular meeting of the Monson Cemetery Commission. They will discuss improvements to the October Historic Grave Walk, trees at Hillside, and a proposed Eagle Scout project. The commission will also review town counsel's assessment of rules and regulations, and the status of equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings. Routine business includes signing bills, deeds, and correspondence.

• Discussion on the October Historic Grave Walk — what can be improved and positive aspects
• Discussion on trees at the top of Hillside
• Discussion on an Eagle Scout project proposal
• Town counsel review of rules and regulations
• Review status of equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold an executive session on November 6, 2024, to discuss strategy for negotiations with the superintendent, who is nonunion personnel. No other business is listed; the meeting is purely procedural and closed to the public.

• Executive session under M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(2) to prepare for contract negotiations with the Superintendent (nonunion personnel)

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board will vote on approving minutes, appointing a 5th board member, and discussing preliminary funding assumptions with SEGAL. Financial items include reaffirming warrants totaling over $5.2 million, accepting bank balances, and transferring $4 million from the PRIT fund. The board will also consider new retirement allowances for 16 individuals and approve over 50 new member applications.

• Vote to transfer $4,000,000 from PRIT to Money Market account (Item #10)
• Reaffirm warrants totaling $5,222,681.62 for October 31, 2024 (Item #4)
• Appointment of 5th board member for a 5-year term starting December 2, 2024 (Item #2)
• New retirement allowances for 16 employees, including one accidental disability (Item #7)
• Election results: Robert Taylor and Steven Castelli certified as board member representatives for 2025-2027 (Item #20)

Board of Assessors

The Monson Board of Assessors will conduct routine business including approving motor vehicle excise abatements, sign approvals and certificates, and reviewing the tax classification hearing PowerPoint. The meeting also covers minutes, accounting reports, parcel issues, and office updates.

• Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Abatements
• Sign Approval list 61, 61A, & 61B
• Sign Certificates for Chapter 61
• Sign Liens for Chapter Exemptions
• Review Tax Classification Hearing Powerpoint

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee is meeting to review and discuss specific sections of the town's bylaws. The agenda focuses on continuing deliberations regarding Article 8: Penalties and general definitions.

• Discussion of Article 8: Penalties
• Discussion of Definitions
• Approval of Oct 21, 2024 minutes

American Rescue Plan Act Committee (ARPA)

The American Rescue Plan Act Committee will meet to approve previous executive session minutes. The body will discuss the status of current projects and review new project requests.

• Approval of September 23, 2024 Executive Session minutes
• Review of current project status
• Discussion of new project requests

Select Board

The Monson Select Board is holding an emergency meeting to consider declaring a state of emergency due to a forest fire on Bradway Road and Butler Road. The meeting is remote via telephone. The only item on the agenda is this declaration.

• Declare a state of emergency for the forest fire on Bradway Road and Butler Road

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold a working meeting on October 30, 2024, featuring training with the Massachusetts Association of School Committees. No other business or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Training with Massachusetts Association of School Committees

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Request for Determination of Applicability for re-establishing agricultural fields at 175 State Ave. They will also discuss an enforcement order for Lot 12 Cedar Swamp Road and a request for a Certificate of Compliance at 360 Boston Road West. Other business includes correspondence and approval of minutes.

• Public hearing: RDA for agricultural fields at 175 State Ave (Map 088, Parcel 001) by Mass. Dept. of Agricultural Resources
• Enforcement Order — Lot 12 Cedar Swamp Road (Map-Parcel 122-012), DEP File 228-443
• Request for Certificate of Compliance — 360 Boston Road West (DEP File 228-75) by Victor, Genevieve, and Manuel Santos Jr.
• Approval of minutes from prior meetings

Town Meeting

The Monson Special Town Meeting will vote on 20 articles, including a supplemental appropriation for salary increases for union and non-union employees (retroactive to July 1, 2024), rescinding unused borrowing for completed projects, authorizing $1,368,000 for joint sewer capital improvements, funding water main repairs, and appropriating funds for community preservation and town facilities.

• Rescind $3,933,422 in unused borrowing for Quarry Hill Roof project
• Authorize $1,368,000 borrowing for joint sewer capital improvements (Palmer Water Pollution Control Facilities)
• Appropriate $125,000 for historic restoration of Memorial Hall auditorium ceiling and walls
• Accept gift of the Bellman Museum building to the town
• Appropriate $35,000 for Palmer Road water main break repairs

Finance Committee

This is a procedural meeting of the Monson Finance Committee. The committee will review and accept minutes, handle bills, receive financial updates, and decide which members will read articles at the upcoming Special Town Meeting. No specific dollar amounts or concrete actions are listed.

• Review and acceptance of minutes
• Review of bills to pay or appropriate
• Receive town/financial updates and vote on warrant articles if needed
• Assignment of articles to committee members for reading at Special Town Meeting

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board Advisory Council will hold a special meeting to approve minutes, certify nomination papers and set the ballot order for the Members' Representative election, and elect a council member to serve as the Council's Representative on the Retirement Board for a three-year term (2025-2027). The meeting will be held via Zoom on October 24, 2024.

• Approve minutes from the August 28, 2024 meeting
• Certify nomination papers and set ballot order for the position of Members' Representative
• Elect a council member to serve as Advisory Council Representative on the Retirement Board (three-year term)

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold a regular business meeting on October 23, 2024. They are expected to vote on the second reading of four policies regarding electronic messaging, district security technology, data retention, and website/social media, along with a first reading on personnel use of technology. The committee will also review results from the Views of Climate and Learning (VOCAL) survey and may adjourn to executive session to discuss an individual's reputation or discipline.

• Second read of Policy BHE — Use of Electronic Messaging by School Committee Members
• Second read of Policy EHAA — District Security Relating to Technology
• Second read of Policy EHB — Data and Records Retention
• Second read of Policy KDCB — District Website and Social Media
• First read of Policy GBEE — Personnel Use of Technology

School Committee

The Monson School Committee Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review and discuss updates to several district policies, including non-discrimination, sex-based harassment, and Title IX grievance procedures. No votes or decisions are listed; the session is focused on policy review.

• Review of Policy AC – Non-Discrimination Including Harassment and Retaliation
• Review of Policy ACA – Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Sex
• Review of Policy ACAB – Sexual and Sex-Based Harassment and Retaliation
• Review of Policy ACGA – Civil Rights Grievance Procedure
• Review of Policy ACGB – Title IX Sexual Discrimination Grievance Procedure

Select Board

The Select Board will vote to enter executive session to discuss strategy for AFSCME contract negotiations, citing the need to avoid harming the town's bargaining position. No public business is scheduled beyond this single closed-door session.

• Vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining strategy with AFSCME

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will meet on October 22, 2024 at 7:00 PM at 110 Main Street. Items for decision include approval of a three-year AFSCME union contract (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2027), an animal control agreement, and a weight limit for Bunyan Road Bridge. The board will also discuss a state election warrant and signs on town property, and approve minutes from October 8, 2024.

• State Election Warrant — Clerk Watson
• Signs on Town Property
• AFSCME July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2027 Contract Approval
• Animal Control Agreement Approval
• Bunyan Road Bridge Weight Limit

School Committee

The Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss a budget memo with the Town finance director. This is the only item listed on the agenda.

• Budget memo discussion with Town finance director

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

The Board of Directors will meet to review the financial report and minutes from September 16, 2024. The session includes updates on 2024 programs and specific facility projects. The board will also discuss volunteer hours.

• Project updates for upstairs computer, pole light, shades, personal PA system, and sculptures
• Review of 2024 Program Updates
• Discussion of volunteer hours

The Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors met on October 21, 2024, and unanimously approved the September minutes and the financial report showing $16,067.13. The board discussed upcoming programs, including a Birds of Prey presentation in November and a Santa Claus history program in December, and reviewed maintenance projects. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely routine and procedural.

• Approved September 16, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved financial report with $16,067.13 balance (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:42 PM (7-0)

Finance Committee

The Monson Finance Committee will vote on warrant article recommendations for an upcoming town meeting and discuss several financial matters. Topics include an energy contract (ESCO), the School End-of-Year Budget Memo, water and sewer articles, and Community Preservation Committee articles. The committee will also receive town financial updates and review correspondence and bills.

• Energy Contract (ESCO) discussion with Beth Greenblatt
• School Committee to discuss School EOY Budget Memo
• Craig Jalbert to present Water and Sewer articles
• Community Preservation Committee (CPC) articles
• Voting on Warrant Article Recommendations

General Bylaw Committee

The Monson General Bylaw Committee will meet to discuss proposed changes to several sections of the town's general bylaws, including Article 8 on penalties, Article 13 on dog regulations, and the definitions section. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and other business. No votes or decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion-only work session.

• Discussion on Article 8: Penalties
• Discussion on Article 13: Dog Regulations
• Continued discussion on Definitions

Select Board

The Select Board, Finance Committee, and School Committee will hold a joint meeting to discuss an Energy Service Contract (ESCP) follow-up and energy projections for FY25/26. They will also consider a Finance Committee reserve fund transfer request to replace the Council on Aging freezer, review FY25 Special Town Meeting recommendations, and address the FY24 school budget year-end memo and prior-year bills. The FY26 budget process and timeline will be outlined.

• Energy Service Contract (ESCP) follow-up with Beth Greenblatt
• Energy projections for FY25/26
• Finance Committee reserve fund transfer for Council on Aging freezer replacement
• FY25 Fall Special Town Meeting Finance Committee recommendations
• FY24 school budget year-end memo and prior-year bills

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk's office will conduct testing of ImageCast voting machines on October 18, 2024. This activity is being performed in accordance with 950 C.M.R. 54:02 (4)(c).

• Testing of ImageCast voting machines at 110 Main St.

Memorial Hall Renovation Committee

The committee is meeting to review the project priority list and discuss the Veterans Heritage Grant. Members will also address specific building maintenance items including window repairs and monument accessibility.

• Veterans Heritage Grant
• Lowering brass wall monuments for readability
• Curtains for ticket windows
• Budget and re-pointing work
• Audio/lighting vendor selection

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss several new and revised district policies and review MCAS results. The meeting includes a public session and will conclude with an executive session regarding personnel and collective bargaining strategy.

• Policy: Public Involvement at School Events (Third Read)
• Policy BHE: Use of Electronic Messaging by School Committee Members (First Read)
• Policy EHAA: District Security Relating to Technology (First Read)
• Policy EHB: Data and Records Retention (First Read)
• Policy KDCB: District Website and Social Media (First Read)

School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review and update several district policies. The discussion focuses on technology use, data retention, and public involvement.

• Review of Public Involvement at School Events policy
• Review of Policy BHE regarding electronic messaging by School Committee members
• Review of Policy EHAA (District Security Relating to Technology) and Policy EHB (Data and Records Retention)
• Review of Policy KDCB (District Website and Social Media) and Policy GBEE (Personnel Use of Technology)
• Review of Policy JICJ (Student Use of Technology in Schools) and Policy KDC (Community Use of Digital Resources)

Conservation Commission

The Monson Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to determine if specific property projects are subject to the Wetlands Protection Act. The body will also address an enforcement order and a request for a certificate of compliance.

• RDA for septic system repair and enlargement at 287 Wilbraham Road
• RDA for a 37’x30’ addition at 40 Country Club Drive
• Enforcement Order for Lot# 12 Cedar Swamp Road
• Certificate of Compliance request for 360 Boston Road West

Board of Health

The Monson Select Board, acting as the Board of Health, will discuss setting the residential trash rate for 2025 and consider two letters of interest to fill vacancies on the Board. Updates will be provided on the Health Director's report, the restroom installation at Echo Hill and a property at 42 Washington, and the recent Household Hazardous Waste Day. Routine business includes approving previous meeting minutes and signing permits and warrants.

• Setting the Trash Rate for 2025 – Finance Director Jamie Farnum to present
• Letter of interest to serve on Board of Health from Dene’ Ackerman
• Letter of interest to serve on Board of Health from Adrienne Davis
• Status update on Echo Hill’s restroom installation and 42 Washington
• Household Hazardous Waste Day wrap-up by Denise Kennedy Buck

Select Board

The Monson Select Board, acting as the Board of Health, will discuss and potentially set the trash rate for 2025, receive updates on the Echo Hill restroom installation and 42 Washington project, and consider two letters of interest for vacancies on the Board of Health. The meeting also includes a health director's report and routine business such as approving prior minutes and signing bills.

• Setting the Trash Rate for 2025 — presented by Finance Director Jamie Farnum
• Health Director's report from Finn McCool
• Status update on Echo Hill's restroom installation and 42 Washington
• Letter of interest to serve on Board of Health from Dene' Ackerman
• Letter of interest to serve on Board of Health from Adrienne Davis

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss and potentially decide on a gift of the Bellman Museum building and its contents to the town, among other old and new business. New business includes paint stewardship legislation, approval of a bicycle race date, and updates on the upcoming special town meeting warrant. Routine items such as bill approvals and correspondence will also be handled.

• Gift of Bellman Museum building and contents to the town (Old Business)
• Paint stewardship legislation presented by Thomas Irwin (New Business)
• Bicycle race on April 26, 2025, proposed by Michael Norton (New Business)
• Approve warrant for Special Town Meeting (New Business)
• Public safety recognition for Sgt. Adam Szymanski regarding Wales Road accident

Finance Committee

This is a routine meeting of the Monson Finance Committee. The agenda includes reviewing minutes, correspondence, bills, and attending meetings, with new business focused on a School EOY Budget Memo and Warrant Article Recommendations. No specific dollar amounts or binding decisions are listed.

• School EOY Budget Memo discussion
• Warrant Article Recommendations review
• Bills to pay or appropriate
• Review of correspondence and meetings attended

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee will meet to approve prior minutes and continue discussions on general bylaw review, a penalties bylaw, and definitions. No votes or concrete actions are scheduled; the session is focused on ongoing revision work.

• Approval of minutes from September 16, 2024
• Discussion on review of general bylaws
• Discussion on penalties bylaw
• Continued discussion on definitions

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Board of Directors will meet to discuss old business including building and radio updates, as well as the status of the RFP for system design. New business includes the FY26 budget, committee reports, a transfer request, an IT MOU, and a vote on the official meeting posting location. The board will also vote to enter executive session to discuss negotiations with nonunion personnel and collective bargaining.

• FY26 Budget discussion
• Radio system updates for Ware/Monson
• Status of RFP for system design - Attachment
• Transfer Request
• Vote on Official Meeting Posting Location

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Monson Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting for its regular monthly session. Agenda items include discussion of CPR & AED, a basketball flyer, Flynt Park, and CPC matters, along with a report from the director and review of accounts receivable. No major decisions or significant budget items are on the agenda; the meeting appears procedural.

• Discussion of CPR & AED equipment or training
• Review of Basketball Flyer
• Update on Flynt Park
• Report from Director
• Accounts receivable review

Cemetery Commission

The Monson Cemetery Commission will discuss the repair of a crypt and plans for the October Historic Grave Walk. They will also review the status of equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings, and handle routine business such as signing bills and deeds.

• Discussion on repair of the crypt
• Discussion on the October Historic Grave Walk
• Review status of equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings
• Commissioners to sign bills, deeds, and correspondence

Hampden County Health Coalition

The Hampden County Health Coalition will meet virtually to discuss new and old business, including an October budget report and unallocated funds, a cell phone agreement, and a hazard mitigation presentation. The group will also receive updates on planner procurement and the status of PHEP funding requests for conferences. Local public health and shared service updates will be shared in a round robin format.

• October Budget Report + discussion of unallocated FRCOG funds (possible vote)
• Discussion of a cell phone agreement funded by a grant
• Presentation on Regional W.MA HMCC Hazard Mitigation
• Update on procurement of a PHEP/FRCOG planner
• Status of PHEP funding requests for MHOA and PHEP Summit conferences

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board will vote to approve warrants totaling $5,078,758.03 and reaffirm new retirement allowances for 13 individuals. The board will also consider a new retirement application, approve a $2,000,000 PRIT fund transfer, accept injury notices, and vote on an accidental disability benefit for Philip Levesque.

• Approval of warrants totaling $5,078,758.03 (salary, board compensation, refunds, expenses, allowances)
• Reaffirmation of 13 new retirement allowances paid 9/30/2024 (including Donna Mante, Edwin Deming, David Belanger, etc.)
• PRIT fund transfer of $2,000,000 to money market account
• Vote on accidental disability benefits for Philip Levesque (Town of East Longmeadow Highway Dept)
• Acceptance of new injury notices for Sean Knox, Gregory Burt, and Kelly Miller

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss motor vehicle excise commitments and abatements. The body will also review parcel issues and the approval or denial of Chapter 61, 61A, and 61B tax exemptions.

• Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #5
• Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Abatements
• Approval and denial lists for Chapter 61, 61A, and 61B exemptions
• Sign Certificates for Chapter 61
• Sign Liens for Chapter Exemptions

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Finance Committee will review the Executive Director's report, budget-to-actuals for July through September, and a transfer policy update. The committee will also consider two transfer requests: one for replacement radios for the Town of Monson and another for a reserve fund transfer or grant request.

• Budget-to-actuals report for July, August, and September
• Transfer policy update
• Transfer request: Town of Monson replacement radios
• Transfer request: Reserve fund transfer/grant request

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Operations Committee will meet virtually to discuss a draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Public Safety Radio System and Network Analysis. This is a discussion item only; no vote or decision is scheduled. The meeting also covers setting the next meeting date and adjournment.

• Discuss draft RFP for Public Safety Radio System and Network Analysis

Community Preservation Committee

The Monson Community Preservation Committee will meet to review project approvals and administrative updates. The body is scheduled to discuss the Granite Valley School Project and revisions to approval letters.

• Approval of Granite Valley School Project
• Approval Letter Revisions
• Open Project Update

School Committee

The Finance Subcommittee is meeting to review town correspondence and the FY 2025 Budget.

• FY 2025 Budget

General Bylaw Committee

The committee will discuss and review general bylaws, penalties, and definitions. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and other business. No formal votes on specific projects or expenditures are scheduled.

• Approval of minutes from September 16, 2024
• Review of general bylaws
• Discussion on penalties bylaw
• Continued discussion on definitions

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss real property negotiations related to the Bunyan Road Bridge Project. The only action item is a vote to enter closed session under state law. No public business is conducted in this session.

• Vote to enter executive session under M.G.L. c.30A, Sec 21(6) for property negotiations on the Bunyan Road Bridge Project

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss and potentially vote on an inter-municipal agreement for Eastern Hampden Shared Public Health Services and a Code Red policy. Community business includes setting Halloween trick-or-treat hours, the Lion's Club parade, and a costume contest. Old business covers a General Bylaw submission deadline, signs on public property, and policy revisions from Town Counsel.

• Set Halloween trick-or-treat hours, Lion's Club parade, and costume contest at Memorial Hall
• Eastern Hampden Shared Public Health Services (EHSPHS) Inter Municipal Agreement
• General Bylaw Revisions Submission Deadline
• Policy Revisions: Code of Conduct, Correspondence, Senior Work Off Abatement, Veterans Work Abatement
• Code Red Policy with Chief Kozloski and Chief Harris

American Rescue Plan Act Committee (ARPA)

The Monson American Rescue Plan Act Committee will meet to approve minutes from a previous executive session, review the status of current ARPA-funded projects, and consider new project proposals. No specific project details or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Approve minutes from August 15, 2024 executive session
• Status update on existing ARPA projects
• Discussion of new project requests

MA Department of Transportation (DOT)

MassDOT is holding a public informational meeting to discuss the proposed replacement of Bridge M-27-026 on Stafford Hollow Road over the NECRR. The meeting is intended to gather public comments and views on the project design and potential construction detours.

• Proposed full replacement of Bridge M-27-026 (Stafford Hollow Road over NECRR)
• Project limits extend approximately 200 feet in either direction of the current bridge
• Conceptual design includes a sidewalk on one side of the bridge
• Design includes bicycle accommodations via a usable shoulder

Select Board

The Select Board will convene an executive session to discuss strategy for AFSCME collective bargaining, citing that an open meeting could harm the town's bargaining position. No other business is scheduled.

• Vote to enter executive session for AFSCME contract negotiations strategy (M.G.L. c.30A, Sec 21(8))

Council on Aging

The Monson Council on Aging will meet to approve minutes from June and receive updates on the Outreach Coordinator position, SHINE volunteers, a new van and associated grant, and Title III grants. The board will also discuss services, programs, and events.

• Update on new van and grant
• Update on Title III grants
• Update on Outreach Coordinator position
• SHINE volunteer update

Agriculture Commission

The Monson Agricultural Commission will review the Monson Farmer's Market event and draft a memo containing a summary and suggestions for the Select Board. The commission will also establish a December meeting agenda and date, approve minutes from six prior meetings, and take public comment.

• Monson Farmer's Market Event Review & Discussion
• Drafting and Approval of Memo re: Farmer's Market Event (Summary and Suggestions) for Select Board
• Establish December Meeting Agenda Topics and set Meeting Date
• Approve Meeting Minutes of 3/19/24, 4/30/24, 6/25/24, 7/13/24, 8/20/24, 9/5/24
• Public Comment

Conservation Commission

The Monson Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to determine if proposed work at two properties is subject to the Wetlands Protection Act. The body will also consider a Certificate of Compliance for a property on Boston Road West.

• Public hearing for in-ground swimming pool installation at 18 Zuell Hill Road
• Public hearing for repair and enlargement of a septic system at 287 Wilbraham Road
• Request for a Certificate of Compliance at 360 Boston Road West

Memorial Hall Renovation Committee

The Memorial Hall Renovation Committee will discuss next steps for the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) grant award, including bid documents and process. They will also review the project priority list, consider a donation box and easel for renovation updates, and explore other grant opportunities and small repairs. The meeting includes approval of minutes from previous meetings.

• CPC grant award — next steps for bid documents and process
• Review of project priority list (multiple items)
• Donation box and easel for renovation plans/updates
• Other grant opportunities and multiple small repairs
• Approval of minutes from August 13 and July 9

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

The Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors will meet to approve minutes from August, review the financial report, and discuss updates on ongoing projects and programs. Old business includes several maintenance items such as the upstairs computer, pole light, painting, and water in the basement. New business covers volunteer hours and any unanticipated items.

• Review of August 19, 2024 meeting minutes
• Financial report discussion
• Project updates: upstairs computer, pole light, painting, water in basement, shades, PA system, barn floor, sculptures
• 2024 program updates
• Volunteer hours review

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee will approve prior minutes and continue its review of general bylaws, focusing on definitions. No other specific items or votes are listed, making the agenda largely procedural.

• Approval of minutes from September 9, 2024
• Continued discussion on definitions within general bylaws

The Monson Bylaw Committee met and approved the minutes from August 19 and September 9, 2024. They reviewed articles 28-31, 33, and 34, and formatted hyphens and semicolons. No substantive decisions were made beyond these procedural actions.

• Approved August 19, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 9, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed articles 28, 29, 30, 31, 33, 34
• Formatted article hyphens and section semicolons

Select Board

This is a special executive session meeting of the Monson Select Board. The board will vote to enter closed session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation related to 31 Bunyan Road and 69 Mayhill Road, and to consider real property matters for the Bunyan Road Bridge Project. No public business is on the agenda.

• Vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining or litigation at 31 Bunyan Road and 69 Mayhill Road
• Vote to enter executive session for real property discussion on the Bunyan Road Bridge Project

School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review and update district policies. This is a focused session regarding school policy guidelines.

• Review and update of school policies

Water / Sewer Commission

The Monson Water & Sewer Commissioners will review and accept meeting minutes from May and July, then address old business items including the Meter Replacement Project, the Water & Sewer Budget for a Special Town Meeting, and the Old Wales Road Dam. New business covers general department activity and any unanticipated topics.

• Meter Replacement Project update
• Water & Sewer Budget / STM Articles discussion
• Old Wales Road Dam status
• Accept minutes of May 22, 2024 and July 30, 2024

The Monson Water & Sewer Commission agreed to use remaining ARPA funds to replace all municipal water meters, pending discussion with the ARPA Committee. They also reviewed proposed articles for the October 28 Special Town Meeting, including borrowing $1,368,000 for the Palmer joint sewer project. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only action was unanimous approval of the July 30, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Approved minutes of July 30, 2024 (unanimous)
• Agreed to propose using remaining ARPA funds for municipal meter replacements (pending ARPA Committee discussion)
• Reviewed proposed Special Town Meeting articles, including $1,368,000 sewer borrowing, $39,000 for Palmer Road water main repairs, and $80,000 for Main Street Reconstruction

RePlanting Monson Tree Committee

The RePlanting Monson Tree Committee will review minutes from June 5, 2024, and receive updates on a Community Preservation Committee-funded trail project. The committee will also discuss fall events and report on chestnut tree growth. No votes or decisions are listed; all items are informational updates.

• Review and approve minutes of June 5, 2024 meeting
• Update on CPC Funded trail project
• Discussion of fall events
• Updates on Chestnut growth

The RePlanting Monson Tree Committee approved the June 5, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. They discussed trail construction delays due to awaiting a demolition bid for the Monson Developmental Center, planned Chestnut Club activities, and decided to pursue a Monson Cultural Council grant for a photography workshop.

• Approved June 5, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to work with Nancy Bryant on a photography workshop for the Monson Cultural Council grant

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to review school opening updates and a policy regarding public involvement at school events. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy.

• Second read of Public Involvement at School Events policy
• Introduction of School Liaison Officer Paul Mayo
• Updates on school openings, therapy dogs, and school choice
• Executive session regarding collective bargaining strategy

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Finance Committee is meeting to review the Executive Director's report and budget planning for FY26. The body will examine budget-to-actuals reports for July and August and review the transfer policy.

• FY26 budget planning and discussion
• July and August Budget to Actuals Report
• Transfer Policy review and transfer requests
• Town of Monson replacement radios
• Reserve Fund transfer/grant request

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will hold a regular meeting on September 10, 2024, addressing several operational and policy items. Key topics include a fire station renovation project update, general bylaw revisions for a future Special Town Meeting, and annual performance evaluations for the Town Administrator, Police Chief, and Fire Chief. The board will also consider appointments to the Board of Health and Zoning Board of Appeals, a land acquisition for forest reserves, and a fire chief decision appeal. Public comment periods are scheduled for the beginning and end of the meeting.

• Fire Station Renovation Project update from Chief Brian Harris
• General Bylaw Revisions for Special Town Meeting consideration
• Annual Performance Evaluations for Town Administrator, Police Chief, and Fire Chief
• Land Acquisition for Forest Reserves Grant with Conservation Commission
• Appointments: Karrie Escoto to Board of Health (term June 30, 2027) and David Beaudoin to Zoning Board of Appeals as Associate Member (term June 30, 2026)

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting in Executive Session to discuss personnel matters. The session is conducted pursuant to Open Meeting Law regarding the reputation, character, or discipline of an individual.

• Executive Session regarding personnel discipline, complaints, or individual character

National Grid Notices of Public Hearings

The Department of Public Utilities is holding a virtual public hearing to discuss a proposed mid-term modification to Eversource Energy's 2022-2024 Three-Year Energy Efficiency Plan. The proposal seeks to increase budgets for income-eligible programs, which would result in monthly bill increases for residential customers.

• Proposed $28,956,063 increase for Income-Eligible Existing Buildings program
• Proposed $157,665 increase for Income-Eligible Hard to Measure program
• Estimated $8.04 monthly bill increase for typical residential heating customers (R-3)
• Estimated $5.74 monthly bill increase for typical low-income residential heating customers (R-4)
• Virtual public hearing scheduled for September 9, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.

Finance Committee

The Monson Finance Committee will hold its first meeting of the fiscal year, electing a chairperson and vice chairperson. They will discuss several transfer requests, including a $10,000 transfer for Fire Station server replacement from the FY25 Reserve Fund. The committee will also review the FY26 Budget Calendar, receive updates on the Fire Station Project (information sessions only), and set deadlines for the Fall Special Town Meeting warrant articles.

• Vote on chairperson and vice chairperson
• FY25 Finance Committee Reserve Fund Transfer Request: Fire Station Server replacement $10,000
• FY24 Water Reserve Fund Transfer Request for electricity (amount not specified)
• Fire Station Project update (information sessions, no revote needed for Special Town Meeting)
• FY26 Budget Calendar review

General Bylaw Committee

The Monson General Bylaw Committee will meet on September 9, 2024, to approve minutes from August 19 and continue its review of general bylaws. The committee will begin a discussion on definitions within the bylaws. This is a working session focused on procedural review and discussion.

• Approval of minutes from August 19, 2024
• Review of general bylaws
• Begin discussion on definitions
• Any other business

The General Bylaw Committee met to continue its review of town bylaws, focusing on formatting and title uniformity. They discussed responses to the Attorney General's letter on the Solicitation Bylaw and decided to meet next week to accelerate the revision work. No final decisions were made on substantive bylaw changes.

• Reviewed articles 13, 16, 17, 20, 22, 23, and 26 for formatting and consistency
• Decided to remove 'of the Department' in Article 23, Sections 2 and 3
• Scheduled an additional meeting next week to complete bylaw revision work
• Adjourned at 5:50 PM (all in favor)

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Board of Directors and Operations Committee are meeting to review radio system updates and the status of a system design RFP. The body will discuss FY26 budget goals, the Executive Director's performance review process, and a reorganization vote.

• Status of RFP for system design
• FY26 Budget Goals
• IT MOU
• Reorganization Vote
• Finance Committee report on transfer policy and requests

Hampden County Health Coalition

The Hampden County Health Coalition will meet virtually to review budget and project updates. The body will discuss an arboviral report and the location for posting meeting documents.

• Budget report update
• Planner procurement project update
• Vote on meeting document posting location
• Arboviral report discussion
• WebEOC and 24/7 contacts discussion

Agriculture Commission

The Monson Agricultural Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss planning for the Monson Farmer’s Market. The meeting includes welcome, public comment, and adjournment.

• Monson Farmer’s Market Planning Discussion

The Monson Agricultural Commission approved Finley Higgins' band as live entertainment and approved multiple vendors for the upcoming market, including Cookies by Ray, Crazy Cat Wood Shop, Daily Bread Baking Company, Monsoon Acres, Juliet Rose Pottery, Plante Farm, Silver Bell Farm, Koran's Farm, Murphy's Sunflowers, and Skalbite Family Farm. Several members abstained from votes on farms they were affiliated with. The commission also finalized the vendor list, discussed setup logistics, and scheduled the next meeting for September 19.

• Approved Finley Higgins' band as live music (unanimous)
• Approved Cookies by Ray, Crazy Cat Wood Shop, Daily Bread Baking Company, Monsoon Acres, Juliet Rose Pottery, and Plante Farm as vendors (unanimous)
• Approved Silver Bell Farm as vendor (unanimous, Mike Moore abstained)
• Approved Koran's Farm as vendor (unanimous, Denise Koran-Klisiewicz abstained)
• Approved Murphy's Sunflowers as vendor (unanimous, Ben Murphy abstained)
• Approved Skalbite Family Farm as vendor (unanimous, Bob Skalbite and Steph Puro abstained)
• Scheduled next meeting for September 19 at 7 PM (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Monson Cemetery Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of minutes, a planned October Historic Grave Walk, and repairs to a crypt. Commissioners will also review the condition of cemetery equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings, and sign bills and deeds.

• Discussion on the October Historic Grave Walk
• Discussion on the repair of the crypt
• Review of equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board will vote on routine financial approvals including reaffirming warrants, transfers, and new retirement allowances. They will also discuss a failure to provide annual income statements for a disability retiree and consider opening an additional money market account. The meeting includes acceptance of new member applications and a legal update.

• Reaffirming warrants totaling $5,521,268.17 including salary, compensation, refunds, and monthly expenses
• Transferring $10,000,000 from money market account to PRIT fund
• Approving new retirement allowances for 24 individuals from Agawam, East Longmeadow, Holland, HWRSD, Ludlow, Monson, Southwick, STRSD, Palmer, Springfield, and Wales
• Accepting 7 new applications for retirement with service dates in 2024
• Discussing failure to provide annual statement of earned income under Section 91A for one accidental disability retiree

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a regular meeting to review and approve minutes from previous meetings (May, June, July), accounting reports, warrants to collect, motor vehicle and trailer excise abatements, and parcel issues. They will also discuss a draft internal office policy and office updates, including a closure for DLS training. Public comment is allowed for up to 30 minutes with six speakers. The meeting is largely routine administrative business.

• Approve minutes from May 6, May 15, June 12, and July 31, 2024
• Review accounting reports and warrants to collect
• Consider motor vehicle and trailer excise abatements
• Discuss draft internal office policy
• Office closure on September 26 for DLS training

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Finance Committee will meet remotely to review budget planning for FY26, discuss the July and August budget-to-actuals report, and consider a reserve fund transfer or grant request for the Town of Monson replacement radios. The committee will also approve previous meeting minutes and review the transfer policy.

• Approve July 9, 2024 meeting minutes
• Executive Director report on FY26 budget planning
• Budget to Actuals report for July and August
• Review of Transfer Policy
• Town of Monson Replacement Radios: Reserve Fund Transfer or Grant Request

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The Westcomm Operations Committee will discuss concerns raised in a letter from Executive Director Hastings, including radio coverage issues, with personnel from Horizon Technologies. They will also review an annual assessment report update, a Zello update, a Radio/Network Analysis RFP, and outside detail requests.

• Discussion with Horizon Technologies, Inc. regarding concerns in Executive Director Hastings' letter
• Radio coverage review
• Annual Assessment Report update
• Zello update and Radio/Network Analysis RFP
• Outside Detail Requests

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will review five applications for Community Preservation Act funding, including projects for First Church of Monson, Memorial Hall painting, Cushman Field, the Richmond Parcel, and Margaret Street Open Space. The committee will also approve minutes from August 6, 2024, discuss bill schedules and correspondence, and consider approval letter revisions and an open project update.

• Application review: First Church of Monson (Gay Paluch and Suzanne Kelley)
• Application review: Memorial Hall painting (Peter Warren)
• Application review: Cushman Field (Tim Pascale)
• Application review: Richmond Parcel (Glenn Colburn)
• Application review: Margaret Street Open Space (Glenn Colburn)

The Monson Community Preservation Committee unanimously approved funding for five projects: First Church organ restoration ($52,000), Memorial Hall restoration ($125,000), Cushman Field restoration ($14,500), Richmond parcel acquisition ($137,800), and Margaret Street open space acquisition ($51,625). All votes were unanimous. The committee also approved using Henry Tree Service for the 28 Bridge Street demolition project and encumbered funds through spring 2025.

• Approved $52,000 for First Church organ restoration (unanimous)
• Approved $125,000 for Memorial Hall restoration (unanimous)
• Approved $14,500 for Cushman Field restoration (unanimous)
• Approved $137,800 for Richmond parcel acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved $51,625 for Margaret Street open space acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved Henry Tree Service for 28 Bridge Street demolition project

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board Advisory Council is meeting to handle administrative and election-related business. The body will review prior meeting minutes and establish the process for electing two Member's Representatives.

• Approval of November 16, 2023 meeting minutes
• Nomination of Dawn Fonte as Chair of the Election Committee
• Review and approval of the Memo and Election Timetable for two Member's Representatives

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding aquatic vegetation management and lake treatment at Paradise Lake. The body will also review stormwater matters and a request for a Certificate of Compliance.

• Public hearing for Ecological Restoration Limited Project Notice of Intent at Paradise Lake (Lakeside Drive)
• Stormwater discussion for 85 Bethany Road (H&L Builders and Development Inc.)
• Certificate of Compliance request for 360 Boston Road West
• Bill schedule for Turley Publications

The Monson Conservation Commission closed a public hearing and issued an Order of Conditions for an Ecological Restoration Limited Project at Paradise Lake, allowing aquatic vegetation management and lake treatment. The Commission also approved a decision requiring stormwater improvements at 85 Bethany Road, continued a Certificate of Compliance request for 360 Boston Road West, and voted to apply for grants and CPA projects.

• Closed public hearing and issued Order of Conditions for Paradise Lake algae treatment (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved decision requiring stormwater treatment at 85 Bethany Road (5-0)
• Continued Certificate of Compliance request for 360 Boston Road West to next meeting (5-0)
• Approved application for Land Acquisition for Forest Reserves grant (5-0)
• Approved applications for two Community Preservation Act projects: Richmond parcel and Margaret Street (5-0)
• Approved minutes from April 3, 2024 (5-0)

Senior Work Off Abatement Program Committee Meeting

The Senior Work Off Abatement Program Committee will review current policies and procedures related to the program. This is the only item on the agenda, and no decisions or proposals are listed beyond the review.

• Review of current policies and procedures for the Senior Work Off Abatement Program

Town Clerk

The Monson Town Clerk's office will conduct a public test of ImageCast voting machines as required by state regulation. The test is scheduled for Friday, August 23, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. in the Town Clerk's office. The public is welcome to observe.

• Public test of ImageCast voting machines on August 23, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee is meeting to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining for Units D and E. The meeting is scheduled to move immediately into executive session and will not return to open session.

• Collective bargaining strategy for Units D and E

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Operations Committee will discuss drafting the Annual Assessment Report for the Board of Directors. The report will cover equipment, operations of the dispatch center, and executive director and staff. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is focused on report preparation.

• Discussion of equipment section of the annual assessment report
• Discussion of dispatch center operations section
• Discussion of executive director and staff section
• Setting next meeting date
• Adjournment

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold a reorganization and regular business meeting, approving minutes from previous meetings and receiving reports from subcommittees. They will discuss a request to waive the kindergarten entrance age requirement, review the 2024-2025 student handbook, and consider policy changes on public involvement at school events and a therapy/comfort dog policy. The meeting will conclude with an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy.

• Request to waive kindergarten entrance age requirement
• 2024-2025 Handbook for Students and Families (old business)
• Policy IMG — Therapy/Comfort Dog Policy third reading
• Public Involvement at School Events policy second reading
• Executive session for collective bargaining strategy under M.G.L. Chapter 30A, 21a, Purpose #3

School Committee

The Facilities & Long-Term Planning Subcommittee of the Monson School Committee will conduct a tour of school buildings prior to the start of the academic year. No votes or formal decisions are scheduled.

• Tour of Monson High School, Granite Valley School, and Quarry Hill Community School

Agriculture Commission

The Monson Agricultural Commission will hold a special meeting to discuss planning for the Monson Farmer's Market. The agenda includes public comment and a dedicated discussion period for the market. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Monson Farmer's Market planning discussion

The Monson Agricultural Commission unanimously approved all nine applicants for the September 14th farmers market at Memorial Hall. The commission also discussed vendor outreach, advertising, and a potential musician, and scheduled a special meeting for September 5th.

• Approved all 9 farmers market applicants for September 14th (unanimous)
• Scheduled special meeting for September 5th at 7:00pm
• Agreed to continue with September 14th market date despite postponement discussion

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and review general bylaws. The committee is scheduled to begin discussions regarding definitions within the bylaws.

• Approval of August 12, 2024 minutes
• Review of general bylaws
• Discussion on definitions

The Monson Bylaw Committee met on August 19, 2024, and unanimously approved the minutes from August 12. They also unanimously approved a motion to add 'Town Clerk' to article 1, section 5, last sentence. The committee tabled discussion on address numbering letter/number sizes and proofread articles 1-20 with grammatical corrections. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved August 12 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adding 'Town Clerk' to article 1, section 5, last sentence (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on address numbering letter/number sizes

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

This is a routine meeting of the Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors. The agenda includes roll call, approval of previous minutes, a financial report, and correspondence. Old business covers program updates and several project items (e.g., painting, water in basement, barn floor). New business includes discussion of volunteer hours and unanticipated items. No votes or decisions are indicated beyond routine board operations.

• Financial report review
• Project updates: painting, water in basement, barn floor
• Discussion of volunteer hours
• Unanticipated items (old and new business)

The Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors met on August 19, 2024, and approved the minutes and financial report. They discussed the deteriorating sculptures, with Mary Ann Meacham contacting the town's new lawyer to clarify ownership and responsibility. No formal decisions were made on this matter. The board also reviewed upcoming programs and various maintenance projects.

• Accepted minutes of July 15, 2024 meeting
• Accepted financial report showing $15,872.79 balance
• Approved purchase of V-Tech phone system for $70.95
• Discussed sculptures with town lawyer; no action taken
• Scheduled board training on Open Meeting Law for September 25

Select Board

This is a purely procedural agenda: the Select Board will vote to enter an executive session to discuss strategy for AFSCME contract negotiations. No open-session business is scheduled. The executive session is authorized under state law to protect the town's bargaining position.

• Vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining with AFSCME under M.G.L. c.30A, Sec 21(8)

Historical Commission

The Monson Historical Commission will meet to review minutes from July and discuss the Memorial Hall Committee. The body is also scheduled to address a demolition delay regarding 96 Main Street.

• Demolition delay for 96 Main Street
• First Church Organ (Gay Paluch)
• Memorial Hall Committee discussion

The Monson Historical Commission approved an application for a Community Preservation Committee (CPC) grant to restore the First Church organ, the final part of the instrument. The commission also discussed a potential demolition delay bylaw and set a date for the annual Cemetery Walk. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved CPC grant application for First Church organ restoration
• Set Cemetery Walk for October 12 with theme of Markus Keep
• Discussed potential demolition delay bylaw (no action taken)

American Rescue Plan Act Committee (ARPA)

The committee will vote to enter executive session to discuss an Open Meeting Law complaint concerning the American Rescue Plan Act. The session is permitted under state law to discuss the reputation, character, or discipline of a public officer or employee. No other business is on the agenda.

• Vote to enter executive session per M.G.L. c.30A, Sec 21(1) regarding an Open Meeting Law complaint

Select Board

The American Rescue Plan Act Committee will meet in executive session to discuss an Open Meeting Law complaint related to ARPA. The closed session is authorized under state law to discuss an individual's reputation, character, or discipline. No public votes or decisions are expected during this session.

• Vote to enter executive session to discuss Open Meeting Law complaint regarding ARPA

School Committee

This meeting consists solely of an executive session under state law to discuss collective bargaining strategy with Units D and E, with no return to open session. No public votes or decisions are scheduled.

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board will vote on financial warrants, transfers, and new retirement allowances. Key items include a $24 million transfer from the money market account to the PRIT fund and a vote on terminating a contract with PBI and starting a new one with ABL Tech. The board will also consider an accidental disability application for Kenneth Tetreault of Ludlow and review new member applications.

• Vote to reaffirm $24,000,000 transfer from Money Market to PRIT fund
• Vote to terminate contract with PBI and approve new contract with ABL Tech (tabled from July 10 meeting)
• Vote on accidental disability benefits for Kenneth Tetreault, Town of Ludlow
• Approval of warrants totaling $5,146,697.75 for payroll and expenses
• New retirement allowances for 10 members including Tonya Krieg (Agawam) and John Labrecque (Agawam)

Memorial Hall Renovation Committee

The committee will discuss the priority list for Memorial Hall renovations and the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) grant application. They will also receive updates on submitted grants and timelines, and consider other grant opportunities. Approval of minutes from the July 9 meeting is also on the agenda.

• Review priority list for Memorial Hall
• CPC grant application discussion
• Update on grants submitted and timeline for approval
• Consideration of any other grant opportunities
• Approve minutes of July 9

Board of Health

The Monson Select Board, acting as the Board of Health, will discuss a health director’s update and continue a discussion on the status of Echo Hill’s restroom installation or port-a-potty use for the rest of 2024. They will also receive updates on Household Hazardous Waste Day and review trash rules and regulations. Routine business includes approving minutes from July 23 and signing bills and permits.

• Continued discussion on status of Echo Hill’s restroom installation or port-a-potty use for remainder of 2024
• Review of Trash Rules and Regulations discussion
• Household Hazardous Waste Day updates
• Health Director’s update - Finn McCool
• Approve Minutes from July 23, 2024

Select Board

The Select Board will consider calling a Special Town Meeting for October 28, 2024, and opening the meeting warrant. The board is also scheduled to discuss the Wage & Classification Plan and Affordable Homes Act legislation.

• Call Special Town Meeting for Monday, October 28, 2024
• Wage & Classification Plan Approval
• Affordable Homes Act Legislation (H. 4977)
• Appointment of Anthony Albano as Alternate Title V and Health Inspector
• Lion’s Club Toll Road request for September 28

The Monson Select Board unanimously approved a new wage and classification plan prepared by Capital Strategic Solutions, covering union and non-union town employees except police and department heads. The board also set a Special Town Meeting for October 28, 2024, opened its warrant, and requested the Planning Board to develop an accessory dwelling unit zoning bylaw. Several appointments and donations were approved, and the board discussed the potential transfer of the Bellmen Museum to the town.

• Approved wage and classification plan (unanimous)
• Set Special Town Meeting for October 28, 2024 (unanimous)
• Opened Special Town Meeting warrant (unanimous)
• Requested Planning Board to develop ADU zoning bylaw (unanimous)
• Approved $750 donation to Haley Fennyery (unanimous)
• Appointed Anthony Albano as alternate Title V Inspector (unanimous)
• Appointed Anthony Albano as alternate Health Inspector (unanimous)
• Approved Lion's Club toll road event on Sept 28 (unanimous)

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee will approve minutes from its last meeting and continue its review of the town's general bylaws. The main new item is beginning a discussion on definitions, which is a procedural step in the bylaw revision process.

• Approval of minutes from July 22, 2024
• Continue review of general bylaws (progress to date)
• Begin discussion on definitions for the bylaw code

The Bylaw Committee met and unanimously approved the July minutes. They discussed plans for publicly presenting the new bylaws via public access TV, social media, and the newspaper, and reviewed articles 28 through 34. No final decisions were made on the bylaws; the next meeting is scheduled for August 19 to proofread and organize articles.

• Approved July minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed public presentation plans for new bylaws
• Reviewed articles 28-34
• Scheduled next meeting for August 19

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Monson Parks and Recreation Commission will hear updates on summer programs and research into CPR equipment. The agenda also includes a public session, accounts receivable review, and the director's report. The meeting is largely procedural with no major decisions apparent.

• Summer program updates
• CPR equipment research
• Public session for resident input
• Accounts receivable review
• Director's report

The Monson Parks & Recreation Commission voted to move forward with a Community Preservation Committee (CPC) project for a skinned field at Cushman, after discussing parking options at Flynt Park and other potential projects. The commission also discussed terminating two summer camp counselors, implementing counselor reviews, and exploring CPR equipment costs. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved motion to move forward with CPC project for skinned field at Cushman (unanimous)
• Discussed adding parking at Flynt Park, with Tim to consult Highway Department
• Discussed potential second pavilion at Flynt Park, but chair hesitant
• Discussed $4,000 cost to move gate and install fence at Flynt
• Discussed $1,961 CPR equipment cost, with Tim to explore options with Fire Department

Conservation Commission

The Monson Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a project for lake treatment and vegetation management at Paradise Lake. The commission will also discuss dam removal and stormwater issues at various properties.

• Public hearing for Ecological Restoration Limited Project Notice of Intent at Paradise Lake (Lakeside Drive)
• Update on Church Manufacturing Company Dam Removal Project at 152 Bethany Road
• Stormwater discussion for 85 Bethany Road (H&L Builders and Development Inc.)
• Certificate of Compliance request for 53 Butler Rd
• Certificate of Compliance request for 360 Boston Road West

The Commission voted 4-0 to close the public hearing and issue a Certificate of Compliance for 53 Butler Road, with ongoing conditions. They also approved an amendment to include an additional paved swale on Palmer Road for MassDOT. The hearing for the Paradise Lake aquatic vegetation project was not opened due to lack of proper abutter notifications.

• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 53 Butler Rd (4-0)
• Amended Determination to include additional paved swale on Palmer Road for MassDOT (4-0)
• Agreed to decrease frequency of sediment monitoring reports for Church Manufacturing Dam Removal Project
• Continued discussion on 85 Bethany Road stormwater to next meeting
• Signed bill schedule for Turley Publications - $93.90

Community Preservation Committee

The committee will meet to approve previous minutes and review the outcomes of the Town Meeting. Members will also receive updates on open projects.

• Review and approval of April 2, 2024 minutes
• Review of Town Meeting
• Open Project Update

The Monson Community Preservation Committee approved a bill schedule including $62,000 for Pascale Construction, along with other payments. They also approved a change to the Flynt Park trail project, allowing Henry's Tree Service to use remaining funds. The Cemetery Arch Phase II is on hold pending evaluation of repairs, and the committee discussed future agenda items.

• Approved bill schedule including $62,000 to Pascale Construction
• Approved $1,750 to Community Preservation Commission
• Approved $721.29 to Massachusetts Correctional Institute for trash cans at Flyn Park
• Approved $75.00 to Leona Brahen for administrative services
• Approved change to Flynt Park trail project, allowing Henry's Tree Service to complete work with remaining funds (unanimous)

School Committee

The Monson School Committee's Finance Subcommittee will meet to receive updates on the FY24 and FY25 budgets. No votes or public hearings are scheduled; the agenda contains only this single discussion item.

• Updates regarding FY24 and FY25 school budgets

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will meet to reorganize the commission and discuss updated rules and regulations. The body will also consider a cemetery events policy and plan the 2024 cemetery walk.

• Approval of arch repair bill from Pascale Construction
• Updated rules and regulations
• Creation of a cemetery events policy
• 2024 cemetery walk planning
• Reorganization of the Commission

The Monson Cemetery Commission reorganized its leadership, with David Beaudoin as Chair, Richard Smith as Vice Chair, and Sarah Pedder as Clerk. The commission accepted the completed Hillside Cemetery arch work and approved the repair bill from Pascale Construction, notifying the CPC to release payment. Other items discussed included proposed rule updates, a cemetery events policy, and planning for the 2024 Cemetery Walk, but no final decisions were made on these.

• Reorganized commission: Beaudoin Chair, Smith Vice Chair, Pedder Clerk (unanimous)
• Accepted meeting minutes of 6/6/24 (unanimous)
• Accepted Hillside Arch work and approved Pascale Construction bill; will notify CPC to release payment

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting in Executive Session to discuss strategy for collective bargaining and anticipated litigation. These items are being discussed privately as open meetings may detrimentally affect the town's bargaining and legal positions.

• Contract negotiations strategy with AFSCME
• Strategy regarding anticipated litigation

The Select Board voted unanimously to authorize litigation against a Margaret Street resident refusing water meter installation, following the Water Commission's prior authorization. The board also voted to place fire department employees on the new wage and compensation grid, and approved changes to the AFSCME contract including a $500 clothing allowance with town-logo garments and performance evaluations, with split votes.

• Authorized litigation against Margaret Street property for water meter non-compliance (3-0)
• Approved placing fire department on new wage and compensation grid (3-0)
• Changed clothing allowance to $500 plus 1 sweatshirt and 5 tee shirts annually for Unit B employees (2-1)
• Added performance evaluations to AFSCME contract (2-1)

Hampden County Health Coalition

The coalition is meeting to review the fiscal year 2024 performance and discuss the proposed budget and work plan for fiscal year 2025. The session will also include a presentation on WebEOC and 24/7 contacts.

• Discussion of FY25 Budget including $110,000 for a planning services firm
• Proposed $13,400 for travel to the Annual PHEP Summit in San Antonio, Texas
• Proposed $15,200 for Local Public Health Worker cell phone contracts
• Proposed $2,750 for MHOA Conference registration for 5 attendees
• Proposed $4,740 for regional supply purchases

School Committee

The Monson School Committee's Curriculum Subcommittee will meet to discuss several curriculum-related items, including Curriculum Mapping, Open Sci Ed and Appleseeds Initiatives, the Summer Acceleration Academy, and the Health/PE Framework. The meeting is a discussion session with no votes anticipated.

• Discussion of Open Sci Ed and Appleseeds Initiatives
• Review of Summer Acceleration Academy
• Update on Health/PE Framework
• Curriculum Mapping review

School Committee

The Monson School Committee's Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee will meet via Zoom to immediately adjourn to executive session. The purpose is to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining for Units D and E. No open session business will be conducted.

• Executive session under M.G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 21a, Purpose #3 to discuss collective bargaining strategy for Units D and E

Board of Assessors

The Monson Board of Assessors will hold a public meeting to handle routine business including approval of prior meeting minutes, accounting reports, and warrants for motor vehicle excise tax collection. The board will also discuss appointments for Principal Assessor and Assistant Assessor, parcel-related issues, and a draft internal office policy. Public comment is limited to 30 minutes with up to six speakers.

• Confirmation of appointment for Principal Assessor
• Appointment of Assistant Assessor
• Warrants to Collect (Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #4)
• Review of Internal Office Policy draft
• Parcel Issues discussion

The Board of Assessors reorganized for FY2025, appointing Russell Bressette as Chair, Christopher Haley as Vice Chair, and Dorothy Jenkins as Secretary. They approved the July 2024 accounting warrant report, a motor vehicle excise warrant to collect totaling $47,393.28, and abatements for 2023 and 2024 totaling $3,325.41. The Board also appointed Drew Pehoviak as Principal Assessor and Kate McGrath as Assistant Assessor, contingent on her acceptance and CORI check. Several parcel issues were discussed, including a denied abatement application for Bretta Construction due to the 90-day window expiring.

• Reorganized Board of Assessors for FY2025: Chair Bressette, Vice Chair Haley, Secretary Jenkins (unanimous)
• Approved and signed July 2024 Accounting Warrant Report (unanimous)
• Approved and signed 2024 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Warrant to Collect for $47,393.28 (unanimous)
• Approved and signed 2023 and 2024 Motor Vehicle and Trailer Abatements totaling $3,325.41 (unanimous)
• Appointed Drew Pehoviak as Principal Assessor (unanimous)
• Appointed Kate McGrath as Assistant Assessor, contingent on acceptance and CORI check (unanimous)
• Denied Bretta Construction abatement application due to 90-day window expiration; denial notice to be mailed
• Discussed target sales ratio and agreed to maintain between 95%-96%

Water / Sewer Commission

The commission will vote to enter executive session to discuss strategy regarding anticipated litigation. They will also accept meeting minutes from April and May 2024, and review old business including the meter replacement project, water and sewer budget, and the Old Wales Road Dam. New business covers department activity and topics not anticipated 48 hours in advance.

• Vote to enter executive session for anticipated litigation strategy
• Accept meeting minutes from April 10 and May 22, 2024
• Meter replacement project update
• Water & sewer budget review
• Old Wales Road Dam discussion

Select Board

The Select Board will vote to enter an executive session to discuss strategy for collective bargaining with the AFSCME union, citing potential detriment to the town's bargaining position if held openly. No other business is on the agenda.

• Vote to enter executive session under M.G.L. c.30A, Sec 21(3) to discuss AFSCME contract negotiations

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold an executive session under state law to discuss strategy for collective bargaining with employee units D and E. No votes or public decisions are expected during this meeting, which is limited to closed-door negotiations discussion.

• Executive session for collective bargaining strategy under M.G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 21a, Purpose #3
• Meeting covers Units D and E employee groups
• No return to open session after the closed-door discussion

Board of Health

At this meeting, the Monson Board of Health will review letters of interest from four individuals for appointment to the board. They will also receive a Health Director's update, discuss the status of Echo Hill's restroom installation or porta-potty use, and review the history of the town's Swap Shop. Additional business includes planning for Household Hazardous Waste Day and approving minutes from May 8 and June 28, 2024.

• Appointment of new Board of Health member – letters from Mike Reid, Rachel McRobbie, Malinda Manley, and Caitlin Szymanski
• Health Director's update on operations
• Status of Echo Hill restroom installation or porta-potty use for remainder of 2024
• Review of Swap Shop history and updates
• Planning for Household Hazardous Waste Day

The Board of Health discussed the ongoing porta-potty issue at Echo Hill, where a septic system has not been installed despite a prior deadline. The board granted another extension until July 31, 2024, and will not allow porta-potty use after that. The board also discussed reopening the Swap Shop, with a plan to open it this Saturday, and considered a costly quote for a Household Hazardous Waste Day, deferring a decision to gather more bids.

• Extended Echo Hill septic system deadline to July 31, 2024
• Scheduled Swap Shop opening for this Saturday
• Approved minutes from May 8 and June 28, 2024
• Scheduled next Board of Health meeting for August 13, 2024 at 6:00 PM
• Deferred decision on Household Hazardous Waste Day pending additional bids

Select Board

The Select Board will hold an executive session under state law to discuss the reputation, character, or discipline of a public officer or employee. No public business is conducted during this closed session.

• Executive Session per MGL Chapter 30A Section 21(a)(1) to discuss individual's reputation, character, or discipline

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on transferring a liquor license from Monson Markets, Inc. to Danman, LLC. The board also plans to discuss a Housing Production Plan with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, consider stop sign placements on several roads, and make appointments to multiple town boards and commissions.

• Public hearing: Liquor license transfer from Adams Discount Liquors to Danman, LLC (Daniel DeSantis manager)
• Housing Production Plan presentation by Pioneer Valley Planning Commission
• Stop sign placements requested by Highway Surveyor on Wilbraham and Brimfield Roads (Thayer, Waid, Reimers, Cote, Carpenter, King, East Hill, Town Farm, Aldrich, Crest)
• Appointments: Madeline Goodrich to Community Preservation Committee; others to Historical Commission, Board of Health, Registrars; list of election officers
• No parking on west side of Hampden Court at Hampden Avenue intersection

The Monson Select Board unanimously approved the transfer of the liquor license from Monson Markets, Inc. d/b/a Adams Discount Liquors to Danman, LLC, with Daniel DeSantis as manager. The board also approved a housing production plan, multiple stop sign placements, a no-parking zone on Hampden Court, and several appointments. The meeting included a public hearing, public comments, and a presentation on the roles of the Select Board and Town Administrator.

• Approved liquor license transfer to Danman, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved housing production plan (unanimous)
• Approved 10 stop sign placements at various intersections (unanimous)
• Approved no parking signs on west side of Hampden Court (unanimous)
• Approved change of polling location to Quarry Hill School for September and November elections (roll call: 3-0)
• Appointed Dominique Batiste to Board of Registrars (unanimous)
• Reappointed election officers and tellers (unanimous, with two abstentions)
• Appointed Madeline Goodrich to Community Preservation Committee and Mat Wawrzyk to Historical Commission (unanimous)

Agriculture Commission

The Monson Agricultural Commission will hold a special joint meeting with the Select Board to discuss the status of planning for the fall Monson Farmer's Market scheduled for September 14 at Memorial Hall. The meeting is open to the public and will adjourn upon completion of the discussion.

• Joint discussion with the Select Board on planning for the fall Monson Farmer's Market on September 14 at Memorial Hall

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee will meet to approve minutes from June 24 and continue its review of the general bylaws. A new discussion on definitions will begin. The meeting is a procedural step in the ongoing bylaw review process.

• Approval of minutes from June 24, 2024
• Continue review of general bylaws
• Begin discussion on definitions

The committee unanimously approved the June 24 minutes and reorganized its leadership, electing Valerie Bogacz-Beaudoin as Chair, Ray Beaudoin as Vice Chair, and Mathew Wawrzyk as Clerk. Members reviewed articles 18, 21-25, and 28, with further review of remaining articles scheduled for the next meeting on August 12.

• Approved June 24 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Valerie Bogacz-Beaudoin as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Ray Beaudoin as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Mathew Wawrzyk as Clerk (unanimous)
• Reviewed articles 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28 (no action taken)

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Operations Committee will meet to review updates on radio systems, contracts, and staffing, including a vendor contract renewal and a discussion on electing a new vice chair. The meeting is procedural with no major decisions listed.

• Approval of April 1, 2024 meeting minutes
• Radio vendor contract renewal discussion
• Discussion on election of new Operations Committee Vice Chair

Select Board

This is a closed-door executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy for AFSCME contract negotiations. The board will vote to enter the session, citing potential harm to the town's bargaining position if discussed in open meeting.

• Vote to enter executive session for AFSCME contract negotiations under M.G.L. c.30A, Sec 21(3)

The Monson Select Board met in executive session to discuss AFSCME contract negotiations and review the Classification & Compensation Study Report. The board discussed several contract proposals, including a clothing allowance increase that failed on a 1-2 vote. No final decisions were made on the contract or pay study, which will be considered at future meetings.

• Entered executive session to discuss AFSCME contract negotiations (unanimous)
• Reviewed Classification & Compensation Study Report; no vote taken
• Discussed union contract proposals; no final action
• Clothing allowance increase proposal failed (1-2, Warren aye, Oney nay, Morrell nay)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will meet to reorganize the board and receive updates on summer programming and the local pool. Members will also discuss projects for Flynt Park and fall CPC projects.

• Reorganization of the Board
• Summer Program updates
• Soccer signups
• Pool update
• Flynt Park projects

The commission voted to keep Madeline Goodrich as chairperson and approved a sani-can rental for Quarry Hill. They discussed summer program updates, fall soccer registration, pool equipment needs, and Flynt Park improvements. No major policy decisions were made; most items were informational or planning discussions.

• Reelected Madeline Goodrich as chairperson (motion by Jenna Berry, seconded by Jan DeMaio)
• Approved ordering a sani-can for Quarry Hill for the remainder of the month (motion by Jenna Berry, seconded by Jan DeMaio)
• Approved the previous meeting minutes (motion by Jenna Berry, seconded by Jan DeMaio)

Historical Commission

The Monson Historical Commission is meeting on July 18, 2024. The agenda includes discussions on the Memorial Hall Committee, the property at 96 Main Street, and the House of Art. No specific decisions or proposals are listed; the meeting appears to be for general discussion only.

• Memorial Hall Committee discussion
• 96 Main Street property discussion
• House of Art discussion
• New business

The Monson Historical Commission discussed several preservation projects, including the GAR Hall, Cemetery Arch, and the Norcross House. They decided to write a letter to DCAM and the State Historical Commission requesting preservation of certain elements from the Monson Developmental Center before demolition. No formal votes were taken; most items were updates or discussions.

• Agreed to write letter to DCAM and State Historical Commission to preserve MDC granite and elements
• Accepted minutes of previous meeting
• Bill to contact stained glass artist Tod Bell about GAR Hall windows
• Bob and Tamara to review Monson Academy yearbooks for donor leads

National Grid Notices of Public Hearings

The Department of Public Utilities is holding a public hearing to consider a petition from Eversource Gas Company. The company is seeking approval to issue long-term debt securities and an exemption from certain advertising requirements.

• Request to issue long-term debt securities not to exceed $325 million
• Proposed debt maturity dates up to 30 years with interest rates not to exceed 8%
• Request for exemption from advertising requirements of G.L. c. 164, § 15
• Public hearing scheduled for July 18, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. via Zoom

Flynt Park-Keep Museum Trails Committee

The Flynt Park-Keep Museum Trails Committee will meet to approve prior meeting minutes, receive a grant update on the Mass Trails Grant Application, and begin discussion of a Community Preservation Committee (CPC) application for Fall 2024. The meeting is primarily administrative and planning-focused.

• Approval of minutes from June 12, 2024 and November 30, 2023
• Update on Mass Trails Grant Application
• Start discussion of CPC application for Fall 2024

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Regional Dispatch Board of Directors will meet to approve prior meeting minutes, receive updates on building and radio projects, and discuss a workplace climate assessment, finance committee report, and IT agreements. The board will also vote on reorganization of its officers and set the FY26 budget calendar.

• Approve minutes from May 28 and June 7, 2024
• Discuss status of RFP for system design to be released in September
• Review Transfer Policy, IT MOU, and FY2025 Goals attachments
• Reorganization vote for Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• FY26 Budget Calendar and FY23 Audit review

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold a reorganization and regular business meeting, including public session, subcommittee reports, and new business. They are set to discuss the 2024-2025 student handbook, a hiring update, and a new Dean of Students job description, and will conduct readings of four policies: Community Use of School Facilities, Student Publications, Public Involvement at School Events, and Therapy/Comfort Dog Policy.

• Policy KF — Community Use of School Facilities (Third Read)
• Policy JICE — Student Publications (Third Read)
• Policy IMG — Therapy/Comfort Dog Policy (Second Read)
• Public Involvement at School Events (First Read)
• 2024-2025 Handbook for Students and Families

School Committee

The School Committee Policy Subcommittee is meeting to continue the review and update of district policies.

• Continued review and update of policies

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notices of Intent: grading and installation of 70 stone steps, retaining wall, and terraces within the buffer zone at 38 Old Stagecoach Drive, and construction of a single-family home with driveway, septic, and well within the buffer zone on Munn Road. The commission will also hear Requests for Determination of Applicability for invasive species treatment on Crow Hill and Tupper Hill roads, and for repair of a drainage swale on Route 32, plus consider a certificate of compliance and stormwater discussion.

• Public hearing: NOI for grading and 70 stone steps, retaining wall, terraces in buffer zone at 38 Old Stagecoach Drive (applicant Jeff Johnston)
• Public hearing: NOI for single-family home, driveway, septic, well in buffer zone on Munn Road (applicant Frederick McDonald)
• Public hearing: RDA for invasive species treatment on Crow Hill Rd and Tupper Hill Rd (Norcross Wildlife Foundation)
• Public hearing: RDA for repair of paved drainage swale on Route 32 (MassDOT District 2)
• Request for Certificate of Compliance for 360 Boston Road West

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a joint meeting with the Planning Board to discuss the Housing Production Plan. This is a discussion item only; no votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Joint meeting with Planning Board to discuss the Housing Production Plan

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee is meeting in executive session. The body will discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining for Units D and E.

• Collective bargaining strategy for Units D and E

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

The Board of Directors will review financial reports and program updates. The meeting includes discussions on facility maintenance and the creation of a policy for items taken on loan.

• Project updates for the community garden, pole light, and upstairs computer
• Maintenance items including painting, basement water, and shades
• Barn paneling and lock updates
• Proposed policy for taking items on loan
• Review of volunteer hours

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will meet to consider congressional spending for the Fire Station Project at 200 Main Street. This is the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Discussion of congressional spending for the Fire Station Project at 200 Main Street

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss bargaining strategy for AFSCME contract negotiations. This meeting is scheduled for July 11, 2024.

• Vote to enter executive session regarding AFSCME contract negotiation strategy

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board will review warrants, bank reconciliations, and new retirement applications. The board also plans to discuss approving a security door estimate and potentially transitioning from a PI contract to ABL Tech.

• Vote on terminating PI contract and starting new contract with ABL Tech
• Approval of one of three estimates for a security door
• Reaffirm transfer of $5,000,000.00 between bank accounts
• Review of $3,500,000.00 PRIT fund transfer to cover payroll and expenses
• Consideration of accidental disability benefits for Stuart Eggleston

Memorial Hall Renovation Committee

The committee will discuss updates on submitted grants and potential new grant opportunities. Agenda items also include Memorial Hall use fees, applications, and committee re-organization.

• Committee re-organization
• Update on submitted grants and approval timeline
• Memorial Hall use fees and application
• Approval of May 21, 2024 minutes

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Finance Committee will meet via Zoom to approve meeting minutes from April 9 and May 14, 2024. The committee will also receive an Executive Director Report and a Budget to Actuals Report.

• Approval of April 9, 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of May 14, 2024 meeting minutes
• Executive Director Report
• Budget to Actuals Report

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee for Units D and E will meet via Zoom. The meeting is scheduled to move immediately into an executive session to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining.

• Discussion of collective bargaining strategy for Units D and E

Select Board

This meeting agenda contains only a single procedural item regarding the approval of bills payable. The Select Board will be acting as the Board of Health during this session.

• Approval of bills payable

Conservation Commission

The Monson Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding proposed work in protected buffer zones. The agenda also includes requests for certificates of compliance and a discussion on Paradise Lake Association lake treatment.

• Public hearing: Grading, stone steps, and retaining walls at 38 Old Stagecoach Drive
• Public hearing: In-ground swimming pool installation at 63 Wilbraham Rd
• Certificate of compliance requests for Heritage Lane, Boston Road West, and Lower Hampden Rd
• Discussion regarding Paradise Lake Association lake treatment questions

Agriculture Commission

The Agricultural Commission will hold a discussion regarding planning for the Monson Farmer’s Market. The meeting also includes time for public comment.

• Monson Farmer’s Market planning discussion

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee will discuss progress on the ongoing review of town bylaws. The meeting includes updates on articles regarding town officer contracts, the Stretch Energy Code, and snow or debris removal from public ways.

• Update on Article 5: Contracts by Town Officers
• Update on Article 29: Stretch Energy Code
• Update of Article 32: No snow/debris deposited in, on or across a public way
• Discussion on definitions for general bylaws

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will receive updates regarding summer programs and the local pool. The meeting also includes a soccer update and a report from the Director.

• Summer program updates
• Pool update
• Soccer update

Council on Aging

The Monson Council on Aging will review minutes from the April 10, 2024, meeting. The board is scheduled to receive updates regarding the FY25 budget and the Outreach Coordinator position. Members will also discuss grants and SHINE volunteer updates.

• FY25 Budget update
• Outreach Coordinator position update
• Discussion regarding grants
• SHINE volunteer update

Water / Sewer Commission

The Commission will reorganize the board and review minutes from May 22, 2024. The agenda also includes discussions regarding the Meter Replacement Project and Old Wales Road Dam.

• Board reorganization
• Approval of May 22, 2024 meeting minutes
• Meter Replacement Project
• Old Wales Road Dam

School Committee

The committee will conduct its annual reorganization and elect new officers. Members will also review several school policies at various reading stages, including public participation and student publications. The agenda includes a location request for the "Monson Together" food pantry.

• Election of Committee officers
• Review of Policy BEDH (Public Participation)
• Review of Policy KF (Community Use of School Facilities)
• "Monson Together" Food Pantry Location Request
• Strategy sessions for nonunion personnel negotiations

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss department reorganization and receive an update from Director Finn McCool. The meeting includes reviews of subcommittees regarding substance use, mental health, and town-wide cleanup. Members will also discuss the re-opening date for the Swap Shop.

• Reappointment and reorganization discussion
• Health Department update from Director Finn McCool
• Subcommittee updates on substance use, mental health, and town-wide cleanup
• Review of the Wellness Fair event
• Discussion regarding the Swap Shop re-opening date

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review meeting minutes from April and May 2024 and discuss motor vehicle and trailer excise abatements. The board also plans to conduct a draft review of the internal office policy.

• Approval of meeting minutes from April 17, May 6, and May 15, 2024
• Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Abatements
• Warrants to Collect (Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #3)
• Draft review of Internal Office Policy

Flynt Park-Keep Museum Trails Committee

The committee will discuss the MassTrails Grant Application and provide an update on the Student Conservation Association (SCA) Trail Crew. Members will also review the Mass Cultural Council Fairs & Grant Application.

• MassTrails Grant Application discussion
• Student Conservation Association (SCA) Trail Crew update
• Mass Cultural Council Fairs & Grant Application update
• Approval of Nov 30, 2023 and Jan 18, 2024 minutes

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The board will consider several new applications for retirement from various regional towns. Members will also vote to reaffirm May 2024 warrants and a $3,500,000.00 transfer from the PRIT fund. Additionally, the board will discuss a contract increase for Donna Cleaning Service.

• Vote on increasing Donna Cleaning Service monthly charge from $500.00 to $575.00
• Reaffirm May 31, 2024 warrants, including $4,558,493.26 for retirement allowances
• Reaffirm a $3,500,000.00 transfer from the PRIT fund to the Money Market account
• Consider new applications for retirement from Agawam, Chester, East Longmeadow, and other towns
• Review PBI's contract and investigate alternative companies

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The meeting includes procedural items such as approving minutes from April 9 and May 14, 2024. The committee will also receive an Executive Director Report and a Budget to Actuals Report.

• Approval of April 9, 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of May 14, 2024 meeting minutes
• Executive Director Report
• Budget to Actuals Report

School Committee

The Monson School Committee Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee will meet on June 10, 2024. The meeting includes a transition to an executive session to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining for Units B, C, D, and E.

• Discussion of collective bargaining strategy for Units B, C, D, and E

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee will meet to approve minutes from May 20, 2024. The committee will also discuss an email from Jennifer Wolowicz regarding a timeline and continue its review of general bylaws.

• Approval of May 20, 2024 minutes
• Discussion on timeline email from Jennifer Wolowicz
• Continued review of general bylaws

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review meeting minutes, correspondence, and bills to be paid or appropriated. The committee also plans to receive town financial updates and discuss end-of-year transfers.

• Review of meeting minutes
• Payment of bills
• Town financial updates
• End of year transfers/business

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Board of Directors and Operations Board are holding a joint meeting to address several operational items. The agenda includes motions regarding radio vendors, channels, and key accessibility. The board will also consider entering executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the National Correctional Employees Union.

• Motions regarding radio vendors, channels, and system key accessibility
• Review of the Horizon Contract
• Bi-annual Board elections
• Executive session regarding union collective bargaining strategy
• Building update and Executive Director's COLA

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk has announced the early voting schedule leading up to the June 11 Annual Town Election. Early voting takes place at the Town Office Building from June 1 through June 7.

• June 1 voter registration deadline
• Early voting available June 1–7
• Annual Town Election on June 11
• Polling location at Memorial Hall

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk has announced the early voting schedule for the upcoming annual town election. Early voting will be held at the Town Office Building from June 1 through June 7. The annual town election is scheduled for Tuesday, June 11.

• Early voting available June 1–7 at 110 Main St
• June 1 is the last day to register to vote
• Annual Town Election on Tuesday, June 11
• Polling location: Memorial Hall, 198 Main St

Cemetery Commission

The commission will discuss updating cemetery rules and regulations and review a Mass Cultural application for the Cemetery Walk. The agenda also includes an update on the Arch and maintenance of trees at Hillside.

• Mass Cultural application for the Cemetery Walk
• Interfund transfer for Veteran Flag Holders
• Update on Arch
• Discussion on updating Rules and Regulations
• Two dying trees at Hillside

Town Clerk

This notice outlines the schedule for early voting and details for the annual town election on June 11. It includes voter registration deadlines and polling location information.

• Early voting at Town Office Building, June 1–7
• Voter registration deadline is June 1
• Annual Town Election on Tuesday, June 11
• Polling at Memorial Hall, 198 Main St.

School Committee

The agenda for this meeting is limited to a single item. The subcommittee will focus on the review and update of existing school policies.

• Review/update policies

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will hold a working meeting on June 5, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at the Town Clerk building on Margaret Street. The agenda lists two items for discussion: updates on summer reading and math programs, and an evaluation update regarding Superintendent Cheryl A. Clarke. Summer learning initiatives support student academic progress during breaks, while superintendent evaluations inform district leadership decisions.

• Summer Reading/Math program updates
• Superintendent Evaluation Update

RePlanting Monson Tree Committee

The RePlanting Monson Tree Committee will review minutes from the May 8, 2024 meeting. The committee will also receive updates on Chestnut growth and hold a discussion regarding Rediscover Flynt Park.

• Review of May 8, 2024 meeting minutes
• Updates on Chestnut growth
• Discussion on Rediscover Flynt Park

Conservation Commission

The Monson Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding Notices of Intent for work within wetland buffer zones. This includes a proposal for a single-family home on Cedar Swamp Road and the demolition of 20 structures at 175 State Ave. The commission will also review several requests for Certificates of Compliance.

• Notice of Intent: New single-family home construction at Lot#12 Cedar Swamp Rd
• Notice of Intent: Demolition of 20 structures at 175 State Ave
• Certificate of Compliance request for Lot# 38 Heritage Lane
• Certificate of Compliance request for 360 Boston Road West
• Certificate of Compliance request for 147 Wales Rd

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk has announced the early voting schedule for the upcoming annual town election. Early voting will be held at the Town Office Building from June 1 through June 7. The annual town election is scheduled for Tuesday, June 11.

• Early voting available June 1–June 7
• Voter registration deadline is June 1
• Annual town election on June 11
• Polling location at Memorial Hall, 198 Main St.

Town Clerk

The Town of Monson is conducting early voting at the Town Office Building through June 7. The annual town election will be held on Tuesday, June 11 at Memorial Hall.

• Early voting available June 1 through June 7
• Voter registration deadline: June 1
• Annual Town Election: Tuesday, June 11
• Polling location: Memorial Hall, 198 Main St.

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk has scheduled early voting from June 1 through June 7 at the Town Office Building. The annual town election will be held on Tuesday, June 11, at Memorial Hall.

• Early voting at 110 Main St. from June 1 to June 7
• Voter registration deadline on Saturday, June 1
• Council on Aging early voting hours on June 6 from 10a-12p
• Annual Town Election on June 11 at Memorial Hall, 198 Main St.

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk's office is conducting testing of ImageCast voting machines. The event is open to the public.

• Testing of ImageCast voting machines per 950 C.M.R. 54:02 (4)(c)

Tax Assistance Committee

The committee will discuss reorganizing the group and recruiting new members. In executive session, the body will review and award FY 2025 Tax Assistance applications and discuss methods to increase fund awareness and contributions.

• Review and award of FY 2025 Tax Assistance applications
• Discussion on recruiting new committee members
• Planning for public outreach regarding Tax Assistance Fund contributions

School Committee

The Monson School Committee is holding a working meeting to receive an update on Superintendent goals. No other agenda items are listed for this session.

• Update on Superintendent goals

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Board of Directors will discuss goals for fiscal years 2024 and 2025. The board will also review the Executive Director's performance process and salary for FY 2025.

• Review of FY 2024 Goals
• Discussion of FY 2025 Goals
• Executive Director Salary Review for FY 2025
• Executive Session regarding collective bargaining or litigation strategy

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee for Units B & C will meet on May 28, 2024. The agenda includes an adjournment to executive session to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy for Units B & C

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

The Board of Directors will meet to elect officers and review volunteer hours. The meeting includes updates on several facility projects and a financial report.

• Election of Officers
• Review of volunteer hours
• Updates on electrical work, painting, and water in basement
• Updates on community garden and barn paneling
• Discussion of personal PA system

Select Board

The Select Board will consider several appointments to town councils and commissions. The meeting also includes discussions regarding a marijuana cultivator host community agreement and an upcoming debt exclusion ballot question.

• Appointments for Cultural Council, Community Preservation, and Historical Commission
• Host Community Agreement: Holistic Industries, LLC
• Debt Exclusion Ballot Question (June 11, 2024): Energy Service Contract with Siemens Public, Inc
• UMASS Chan- Baystate Emergency Medical Services Fellowship invitation
• Combustible Waste and Refuse Permits and Fees

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss a Host Community Agreement for a marijuana business and a June 11 debt exclusion ballot question regarding an energy service contract. The board will also consider several committee appointments and permits for combustible waste and refuse.

• Host Community Agreement with Holistic Industries, LLC (Marijuana Cultivator, Manufacturer, and Treatment Center)
• Debt Exclusion Ballot Question for June 11, 2024, regarding Energy Service Contract (ESCO) with Siemens Public, Inc
• Combustible Waste and Refuse Permits and Fees
• Appointments to Cultural Council, Community Preservation, Historical Commission, and Tax Assistance for seniors Committee
• UMASS Chan- Baystate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Fellowship Invitation

Water / Sewer Commission

The Commission will meet to discuss anticipated litigation in executive session. The agenda also includes updates on the Meter Replacement Project and the Water & Sewer Budget.

• Executive session regarding anticipated litigation strategy
• Meter Replacement Project
• Water & Sewer Budget
• Old Wales Road Dam

School Committee

The Monson School Committee will meet on May 22, 2024, to review proposed policy changes for facility use and student publications, which could affect how the public interacts with district schools. Members will also discuss administrative updates, including a new high school principal, a kindergarten entrance age waiver request, and the 2024-2025 academic calendar. Executive sessions will cover negotiations with nonunion staff and litigation strategy.

• First reads for policies on community facility use, student publications, and school event participation
• Third read for policy on public participation at School Committee meetings
• Introduction of new Monson High School Principal Mr. Fontaine
• Approval request for Summerfest
• Waiver request regarding the kindergarten entrance age requirement

Memorial Hall Renovation Committee

The committee will meet to receive updates on submitted grants and the bid process procedures. The body will also vote to approve the minutes from the April 2, 2024 meeting.

• Update on submitted grants
• Bid process procedures and updates
• Approval of April 2, 2024 minutes

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee is meeting to continue its review of the town's general bylaws. The discussion will focus on specific articles regarding town officer contracts, penalties, and dog regulations.

• Review of Article 5: Contracts by Town Officers
• Review of Article 8: Penalities
• Review of Article 13: Dog Regulations
• Approval of minutes from April 22, 2024 and May 6, 2024

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is meeting to review financial reports and the status of various facility projects. Discussions include electrical work, basement water issues, and the community garden. The board will also address volunteer hours and 2024 program updates.

• Electrical work and pole light updates
• Water in basement and painting projects
• Community garden and barn paneling
• Upstairs computer and PA system installation
• Review of 2024 program updates

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

The Board of Directors will hold an annual meeting to conduct the election of officers.

• Election of Officers

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss matters regarding the Memorial Hall Committee and specific properties on Main Street. The agenda includes items related to 96 Main Street and the House of Art.

• Memorial Hall Committee
• 96 Main Street
• House of Art

School Committee

The Monson School Committee Policy Subcommittee will meet to discuss updating school policies. The provided agenda does not specify which particular policies are under review.

• Updating of policies

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss motor vehicle and trailer excise abatements and parcel issues. The board is also reviewing a final draft of the Crumbling Foundation Policy and a draft of the Internal Office Policy.

• Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #3 warrants to collect
• Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Abatements
• Crumbling Foundation Policy final draft
• Internal Office Policy draft review
• Parcel issues

Conservation Commission

The Commission will discuss the Forest Legacy Program with Norcross Wildlife Foundation. The agenda also includes a review of wetlands violations at 360 Boston Road West.

• Forest Legacy Program discussion with Norcross Wildlife Foundation
• Wetlands violations at 360 Boston Road West

School Committee

The Monson School Committee’s Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee will meet on May 14, 2024, at Quarry Hill Community School. The agenda is strictly procedural and consists of adjourning immediately to executive session under M.G.L. Chapter 30A, §21a(3) to discuss collective bargaining strategy for Unit C. No public discussion or votes are scheduled.

• Executive session on May 14, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. under M.G.L. Chapter 30A, §21a(3) to discuss collective bargaining strategy for Unit C
• Meeting location: Superintendent’s Office, 43 Margaret Street, Monson
• No return to open session is planned following the executive meeting

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Finance Committee is meeting remotely to review the Executive Director's report and budget-to-actuals report, and to discuss the status of the final draft of the Transfer Policy. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from previous meetings.

• Executive Director Report
• Budget to Actuals Report
• Status of Transfer Policy - Final Draft
• Approval of December 12, 2023 and April 9, 2024 meeting minutes

Select Board

The Select Board will review host community agreements for three marijuana-related businesses. The meeting includes discussions on Main Street paving, a debt exclusion vote for an energy service contract, and several board appointments.

• Host Community Agreements for Holistic Industries, LLC, Hoop City Ventures, LLC, and Made in Monson, LLC
• Energy Service Contract (ESCO) Debt Exclusion Vote
• Main Street Paving and Bridge Inspection Reports
• Used Car License Transfer from Lou Rivers Used Cars to Post Road Tire and Auto
• Appointments to Council on Aging, Planning Board, and Community Preservation Committee

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee-Unit A will meet on May 14, 2024. The agenda includes an immediate adjournment to Executive Session to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining.

• Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining strategy

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Operations Committee will meet to review director updates and radio system status. The body will discuss the radio vendor contract renewal and the potential hiring of a radio communications consultant.

• Radio vendor contract renewal status
• Radio programming authorization status
• Discussion on hiring a radio communications consultant
• CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch) updates

Town Meeting

The Town of Monson will meet to decide on the tax-supported operating budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024. The meeting includes a consent agenda for several annual administrative articles and votes on elected official compensation.

• Article 10: Approval of the FY 2025 operating budget for schools and general government
• Article 6: Borrowing up to $454,958 for Chapter 90 Bond Issue construction projects
• Article 11: Transfer of $100,000 from Free Cash to the Stabilization Account
• Article 9: Setting salaries for elected officials, including Town Clerk ($82,000) and Highway Surveyor ($101,901)
• Article 7: Appropriation of $15,750 for Community Preservation administrative expenses and various reserves

Town Meeting

The Town of Monson will vote on 10 articles primarily focused on transferring funds to cover budget deficits and infrastructure repairs. Key discussions include funding for the fire station renovation and water and sewer system maintenance.

• Reappropriate $208,070 for fire station renovation design costs
• Transfer $100,000 from Fire Station Special Purpose Stabilization for incidental renovation costs
• Transfer $35,000 from Free Cash for snow and ice removal deficits
• Transfer $19,000 for water main break repairs on Harrison Avenue and Palmer Road
• Transfer $31,000 for a cutter cartridge replacement at the Hospital Road Sewer Station

Board of Registrars

The Board of Registrars will meet to discuss early voting for the Annual Town Election. The board will also review minutes from February 21, 2023.

• Early voting discussion for Annual Town Election
• Approval of February 21, 2023 minutes

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will receive town financial updates and vote on warrant articles. Members will also determine who will read specific articles at the Special Town Meeting.

• Vote on warrant articles
• Assignment of article readings for Special Town Meeting
• Review of bills to pay or appropriate

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Commission will discuss updates regarding pickleball equipment, summer camp, and spring sports. The meeting also includes reviews of field maintenance, school facilities use, and accounts receivable.

• Pickleball equipment update
• Summer Camp update
• Spring sport update
• Field maintenance update
• School facilities use

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss reorganization and reappointments following two resignation letters. The body will vote on budgets for Wellness Fair supplies and a Town Cleanup event, and review applications for portable toilets from Quaboag Riders and Echo Hill.

• Vote on budget for Wellness Fair supplies and Town Cleanup event
• Setting coupon amounts for resident composter and rain barrel sales
• Review of portable toilet applications for Quaboag Riders and Echo Hill
• Opioid Settlement recommendations to Select Board
• Setting a re-opening date for the Swap Shop

Memorial Hall Renovation Committee

The committee will meet to review the status of submitted grants and discuss bid process procedures. The body will also vote to approve the minutes from the April 2, 2024 meeting.

• Update on submitted grants
• Bid process procedures and updates
• Approval of April 2, 2024 meeting minutes

Monson Scholarship Committee

The committee will meet to select the 2024 scholarship recipients and conduct a financial review. Members will also discuss fundraising and the application process for the classes of 2025 and 2026.

• Vote on 2024 scholarship recipients
• Financial review by Deb Mahar
• Discussion on future fundraising
• Review of scholarship process for Class of 2025 & 2026

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee is meeting to approve previous minutes and review progress on Article 30. This article concerns regulations for secondhand articles, pawn shops, dealers, and collectors.

• Discussion on Article 30: Secondhand Articles, Pawn Shop, Dealers and Collectors

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review and potentially vote on warrant articles for the town meeting. The body will also discuss capital projects, year-end transfers, and financial updates.

• Vote on warrant articles for town meeting
• Review of capital projects
• Year end transfers
• Review of bills to pay or appropriate

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will discuss the recruitment process and timeline for a Principal Assessor. The board also intends to review a draft of internal office procedures.

• Recruitment process and timeline for Principal Assessor
• Selection of Board designee for interview panel
• Review of draft Office Procedures Internal Policy

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will meet to discuss upcoming Memorial Day events and flag lighting requirements. The body will also review staffing updates and potential projects from the Monson Garden Club.

• Flag lighting requirements
• Monson Garden Club projects for cemeteries and monuments
• Memorial Day events: Community Flag Placing (5/25), Memorial Day (5/27), and Stone Cleaning Workshop (6/1)
• Part-time administrative and laborer staffing updates

Monson Scholarship Committee

The committee will vote on the 2024 scholarship recipients and discuss future fundraising. Members will also review the scholarship process for the classes of 2025 and 2026.

• Vote on 2024 scholarship recipients
• Financial review by Deb Mahar
• Discussion on future fundraising
• Review of scholarship process for Class of 2025 & 2026

School Committee

The Early Childhood Center School Council is meeting to conduct a Title I program review. The body will also hold a budget discussion.

• Title I program review
• Budget discussion

School Committee

The Granite Valley School Council will meet to conduct a review of the Title I program. The body will also hold a discussion regarding the budget.

• Title I program review
• Budget discussion

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee is meeting to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining for Unit A. The committee intends to move immediately into executive session and will not return to open session.

• Executive Session regarding collective bargaining strategy for Unit A

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee is meeting to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining for Unit C. The meeting is scheduled to move immediately into executive session and will not return to open session.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy for Unit C

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss three school policies regarding public participation, student publications, and community use of facilities. The meeting includes an executive session to conduct strategy sessions for negotiations with nonunion personnel.

• Policy BEDH — Public Participation at School Committee Meetings (Third Read)
• Policy JICE — Student Publications (First Read)
• Policy KF — Community Use of School Facilities (First Read)
• Executive Session for negotiations with nonunion personnel

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting in Executive Session to discuss a personnel matter. The session is convened pursuant to M.G.L. c.80A, Sec 21(1) regarding Jennifer L. Wolowicz.

• Executive Session regarding the reputation, character, physical condition, mental health, discipline, dismissal, or complaints involving Jennifer L. Wolowicz

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board will vote on a 3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for eligible retirees and survivors. The board is also deciding on new retirement allowances, applications for retirement, and the process for filling an open board member position.

• Vote on 3% COLA increase for eligible retirees and survivors
• Reaffirmation of warrants including $4,542,869.36 for monthly retirement allowances
• Reaffirmation of $3,500,000.00 transfer from PRIT to Money Market for May 2024 payroll
• Vote on election process for an open board member position
• Review of MIIA workers comp and liability insurance rates for 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025

Agriculture Commission

The Agricultural Commission will hold a special meeting to conduct a public Q&A forum and discuss planning for the Monson Farmer's Market.

• Public Agricultural Question and Answer Forum
• Monson Farmer's Market planning discussion

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to vote on warrant articles for the town meeting. Members will also discuss end-of-year transfers and receive town financial updates.

• Voting on warrant articles for town meeting
• Review of end-of-year transfers
• Town and financial updates

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to review minutes, subcommittee reports, and several new business items. Proposed actions include approving the Summerfest event, the Student Opportunity Act Plan, and the 2024-2025 District Calendar.

• First read of Policy JICE — Student Publications
• Second read of Policy BEDH — Public Participation at School Committee Meetings
• Approval of Summerfest
• Approval of Student Opportunity Act Plan
• Approval of 2024-2025 District Calendar

School Committee

The Monson School Committee Policy Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the Building Use Policy. The group will also continue a general review of school policies.

• Building Use Policy review
• Continued review of policies

School Committee

The Curriculum Sub-Committee is meeting to discuss updates to the district's curriculum. Discussion topics include health curriculum, summer reading, and math fluency practice.

• Curriculum Mapping Update
• Health Curriculum
• Summer Reading/Math Fluency Practice
• Math Spiral Review Weekly Assignments for the 24-25 School Year

School Committee

The Monson School Committee Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee is meeting to discuss personnel matters. The primary focus of the meeting is the review of new job descriptions.

• Review of new job descriptions

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee for Unit A is meeting to discuss collective bargaining strategy. The meeting is scheduled to move immediately into executive session and will not return to open session.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy (M.G.L. Chapter 30A, 21a, Purpose #3)

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee for Unit C is meeting to discuss collective bargaining strategy. The meeting is scheduled to move immediately into executive session.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy (M.G.L. Chapter 30A, 21a, Purpose #3)

Conservation Commission

The Monson Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to determine if various construction and demolition projects comply with the Wetlands Protection Act. The body will review requests for new homes, building demolitions, and road infrastructure.

• Notice of Intent for a new home, septic system, and stream restoration at 27 Bradway Rd
• Notice of Intent for building abatement and demolition at 175 State Ave
• Request for Determination of Applicability for a culvert liner pipe on Silver St, Stafford Hollow Rd, and Wilbraham Rd
• Request for Determination of Applicability for a driveway and grading at Lot# 19 Shaw Road
• Discussion of wetlands violations at 360 Boston Road West

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss the property at 200 Main Street and review policies regarding flags and board conduct. The board will also consider permits for National Grid utility poles and a gift request for fireworks.

• Fireworks gift request for June 22, 2024 from Summerfest Committee
• National Grid pole petitions for Hospital Road and Cote Road
• Discussion of 200 Main Street
• Flags and Flag Displays Policy
• Code of Conduct for Boards and Committees Policy

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee is meeting to discuss definitions within Article 30 regarding secondhand articles, pawn shops, dealers, and collectors. The committee will also review progress made to date.

• Discussion on Article 30: Secondhand Articles, Pawn Shop, Dealers and Collectors

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review and vote on warrant articles for the upcoming town meeting. The body will also discuss capital projects and receive town financial updates.

• Vote on warrant articles for town meeting
• Discussion of capital projects
• Review of town and financial updates

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy for AFSCME contract negotiations. This session is held privately to avoid detrimental effects on the town's bargaining position.

• Collective bargaining strategy for AFSCME Contract Negotiations

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee for Unit A will meet to discuss collective bargaining strategy. The meeting is scheduled to move immediately into executive session and will not return to open session.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy (M.G.L. Chapter 30A, 21a, Purpose #3)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will discuss spring sports and field maintenance expenses. The meeting includes a review of program expenses and revenue for fiscal years 2023 and 2024, as well as an update on school building use.

• Spring Sports
• Field Maintenance Expense
• Program expense/revenue fy23 fy24
• School building use update
• Accounts Receivable

Historical Commission

The Monson Historical Commission will meet to discuss matters regarding the Memorial Hall Committee, 96 Main Street, and the House of Art.

• Memorial Hall Committee
• 96 Main Street
• House of Art

Select Board

The Monson Select Board will meet to discuss one item during its open session. The board is considering a one-day liquor license application for Dazed.

• One-day liquor license for Dazed

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss real estate exemption applications for FY24 and motor vehicle and trailer excise abatements. The board is also reviewing a draft of the Crumbling Foundation Policy.

• FY24 Real Estate Exemption Applications
• Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Abatements
• Warrants to Collect
• Chapter Land Lien
• Crumbling Foundation Policy draft review

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

The Board of Directors will review the March 18, 2024 minutes and the financial report. Discussion includes updates on various building projects such as electrical work, painting, and water issues in the basement.

• Electrical Work
• Upstairs Computer
• Community Garden
• Pole Light
• Painting and Basement Water

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee will meet to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining with Unit A. The meeting includes an executive session for these discussions.

• Collective bargaining strategy discussion

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee is meeting to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining for Unit C. The meeting is scheduled to move immediately into executive session.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy for Unit C

RePlanting Monson Tree Committee

The committee will review the status of a Community Preservation Committee (CPC) application and discuss an Arts Lottery Application. Members will also plan for a June 1 event and upcoming Summer SCA work.

• CPC application update
• Arts Lottery Application discussion
• Planning for June 1 event
• Planning for Summer SCA work

Water / Sewer Commission

The Water & Sewer Commission will meet to review the department budget and the status of the Meter Replacement Project. The body will also discuss the Old Wales Road Dam and general department activity.

• Meter Replacement Project
• Water & Sewer Budget
• Old Wales Road Dam

Board of Health

The Monson Board of Health will discuss the use of Opioid Settlement funds and review trash abatement requests older than 90 days. The meeting includes updates on the Echo Hill project and the Monson Medical Reserve Corp.

• Review of working meeting recommendations for Opioid Settlement funds
• Review of trash abatement requests made over 90 days
• Monson Medical Reserve Corp discussion with Liz Manley
• Town-wide cleanup scheduled for April 27
• Wellness Fair scheduled for May 18

Council on Aging

The Board will review the FY25 budget and receive updates regarding the Secretary/Receptionist and Assistant Executive Director positions. The meeting includes a meet and greet for Kelly Bergeron and Joanne Castonguay.

• Review of January 24, 2024 minutes
• FY25 Budget discussion
• Staffing updates for Secretary/Receptionist and Assistant Executive Director positions

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm IT Committee is meeting to discuss network redundancy for Monson, East Longmeadow, and Longmeadow. The body will also review the Business Continuity Plan and a Memorandum of Understanding regarding radio maintenance and replacement.

• Network redundancy for East Longmeadow, Longmeadow, and Monson
• Business Continuity Plan
• MOU review for Radio Maintenance / Replacement
• Infrastructure Support Services & Replacement Plan

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss several proposed articles and citizen petitions for the Annual Town Meeting. The body is also considering the declaration of 200 Main Street as surplus property to initiate a Request for Proposal.

• Declaration of 200 Main Street as surplus property
• National Grid pole petition #30932204 for Cedar Swamp Road
• Proposed late fee for food vendor permits from the Board of Health
• Citizen petition to increase the Select Board from three to five members
• Proposed new general bylaw regarding door to door solicitors and peddlers

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The committee will review the Executive Director and Budget to Actuals reports. Members will also consider a vote to award the District’s Bond Anticipation Notes and establish their terms.

• Vote to award the District’s Bond Anticipation Notes
• Review of revised draft transfer policy

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee is meeting to review definitions within Article 30 regarding secondhand articles, pawn shops, dealers, and collectors. The committee will also review progress made to date.

• Discussion of Article 30: Secondhand Articles, Pawn Shop, Dealers and Collectors
• Review of definitions within Article 30
• Approval of March 25, 2024 minutes

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and vote on warrant articles for town meeting. The committee also plans to receive town and financial updates.

• Review/vote on warrant articles for town meeting
• Receive town / financial updates

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Board of Directors will meet to review financial projections, audit statuses, and building and bond updates. The board will also consider a vote to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the National Correctional Employees Union Units 1 and 2.

• Review of FY 22 and FY 23 audits
• Building and bond updates
• Finance Committee, Operations, and IT Sub-Committee reports
• Collective bargaining strategy for National Correctional Employees Union Units 1 (ECS) and 2 (Supervisors)

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will meet to review equipment status and discuss a Cultural Council Grant application for a cemetery walk. The body will also consider the approval of two conferences for the Cemetery Foreman.

• Approval of two conferences for the Cemetery Foreman
• Discussion on Cultural Council Grant application for Cemetery Walk
• Review of equipment status

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Board is meeting to approve retirement allowances, new member applications, and financial warrants. Members will also discuss a new service agreement with PTG and potential attendance at 2024 conferences.

• Vote to reaffirm warrants totaling $6,377,843.45, including $4,524,201.55 for monthly retirement allowances
• Vote to reaffirm a $6,400,000.00 transfer from Peoples Bank Money Market to Checking Account
• Vote to reaffirm a $3,000,000.00 transfer from PRIT to Money Market for April 2024 payroll and expenses
• Vote to approve new retirement allowances for six individuals from Agawam, Palmer, Pathfinder, and Southwick
• Discussion and vote on a new service agreement offered by PTG

Conservation Commission

The Monson Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to determine if various residential and municipal projects comply with the Wetlands Protection Act. The body will also discuss wetlands violations and unpermitted activities at two properties.

• Sidewalk and curb ramp improvements at Route 32, Country Club Dr, Green St, and King Ave by MassDOT
• New single-family home and septic system at 27 Bradway Rd
• Demolition of buildings and structures at 175 State Ave
• Installation of a 260-foot drainage pipe for the playscape area at 8 State St
• Wetlands violations at 360 Boston Road West and unpermitted clearing at 85 Upper Palmer Rd

School Committee

The Granite Valley School Council will meet to discuss the budget and the ECC School Improvement Plan.

• Budget discussion
• ECC School Improvement Plan

Memorial Hall Renovation Committee

The committee will discuss a fundraiser outcome and review estimates for interior work at Memorial Hall. Members will also examine grant opportunities from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission and other sources.

• Review of interior work estimates for Memorial Hall
• Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) grant opportunity
• Fundraiser event and outcome
• Approval of February 6, 2024 minutes

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to review a Habitat for Humanity project and receive updates on the Cemetery Arch and other open projects.

• Habitat for Humanity Project discussion
• Cemetery Arch Project update

School Committee

The Early Childhood Center School Council is meeting to discuss the budget. The body will also review the ECC School Improvement Plan.

• Budget discussion
• ECC School Improvement Plan

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The Westcomm Operations Committee is meeting to review its roles under the District Agreement and receive updates on radio systems and CAD. The body will discuss a draft policy for the release of incident audio recordings and a new IT MOU.

• Review of Operations Committee roles per the District Agreement
• Radio vendor contract renewal status
• Draft 'Release of Audio Incident Audio Recordings' Policy
• IT MOU

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Finance Committee is meeting to vote on the award and terms of the District’s Bond Anticipation Notes. The committee will also review and vote on a final draft of the Transfer Policy.

• Vote to award District’s Bond Anticipation Notes and establish terms
• Final draft review and vote on Transfer Policy

School Committee

The Monson School Committee is holding a meeting for a public budget hearing. No other specific agenda items were listed.

• Public Budget Hearing

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to discuss the FY 2025 general and transportation budgets. The agenda also includes items regarding School Choice openings and the School Opportunity Act.

• FY 2025 Budget
• FY 2025 Transportation Budget
• School Choice Openings FY 2025
• Approval of School Opportunity Act
• Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to consider several town business items including a hazard mitigation plan update and the sale of surplus property. The agenda also includes proposed fire and emergency services permit fee increases.

• Adoption of Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
• Conservation restriction transfer to The Opacum Land Trust, Inc.
• Fire and Emergency Services Permit Fee Increases
• Disposition of surplus 2009 GMC C5500 Duramax Diesel with snowplow
• Disposition of surplus 1994 Freightliner FL80 Fire Engine

National Grid Notices of Public Hearings

The Department of Public Utilities is holding a public hearing to discuss National Grid's proposed mid-term modifications to its 2022-2024 Three-Year Energy Efficiency Plan. The proposal involves shifting funds between residential, income-eligible, and commercial sectors.

• Proposed residential budget increase of $53,452,948
• Proposed income-eligible sector budget increase of $7,723,652
• Proposed commercial and industrial sector budget decrease of $50,854,691
• Estimated monthly bill increase of $8.86 for average Boston Gas residential customers
• Public hearing scheduled for March 26, 2024, via Zoom

National Grid Notices of Public Hearings

The Department of Public Utilities is holding a public hearing to discuss a proposed mid-term modification to Eversource Gas Company's energy efficiency plan. The proposal includes shifting funds from commercial and industrial sectors to residential programs.

• Proposed $1,842,000 increase to the Residential sector energy efficiency budget
• Proposed $24,355,000 decrease to the Commercial and Industrial (C&I) sector budget
• Estimated monthly bill increase of $6.81 for average residential customers (R-3)
• Estimated monthly bill increase of $4.86 for average low-income residential assistance customers (R-4)
• Public hearing scheduled for Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. via Zoom

National Grid Notices of Public Hearings

The Department of Public Utilities is holding a public hearing to discuss proposed changes to National Grid's 2022-2024 Three-Year Energy Efficiency Plan. The proposal includes budget shifts between residential and commercial sectors.

• Proposed $7.5 million increase to the Residential Hard-to-Measure program budget
• Proposed $287.4 million decrease in the Commercial and Industrial (C&I) sector budget
• Estimated monthly bill increase of $0.61 for average residential customers (R-1)
• Virtual public hearing scheduled for March 26, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.
• Deadline for written comments is March 27, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

School Committee

The Finance Committee, Select Board, and School Committee will meet to review final draft budgets for fiscal year 2025. The presentations will cover town departments, the school budget, and school transportation.

• Final FY25 Draft Town Departmental Budgets
• Final FY25 Draft School Budget
• Final FY25 Draft School Transportation Budget

Board of Health

The Board of Health is holding a working meeting to organize information from listening sessions held on January 21 and February 26. The board will also discuss 2024 goals and upcoming community events.

• Analysis of Community Listening Sessions (1/21 and 2/26)
• Board of Health 2024 Goals
• Substance Use/Mental Health Wellness Fair 2024
• Swap Shop Monson Reserve Corps
• Townwide Cleanup

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee is meeting to discuss specific articles of the town's bylaws. The session focuses on regulations regarding dogs and the definitions for secondhand articles, pawn shops, dealers, and collectors.

• Discussion on Article 13: Dog Regulations
• Discussion on Article 30: Secondhand Articles, Pawn Shop, Dealers and Collectors
• Review of definitions for Article 30
• Approval of March 11, 2024 minutes

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to receive final FY25 draft budget presentations. The presentations cover town departments, the school budget, and the school transportation budget.

• Town Departmental Budgets FY25 draft presentation
• School Budget FY25 draft presentation
• School Transportation Budget FY25 draft presentation

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a tri-board meeting to review final draft budget presentations for fiscal year 2025. Presentations will cover town departments, the school budget, and school transportation.

• Town Departmental Budgets FY25 draft
• School Budget FY25 draft
• School Transportation Budget FY25 draft

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Finance Committee will meet to review the FY24 budget actuals and the audit RFP. The committee will also discuss the Hilltop financing schedule and a draft transfer policy.

• FY24 Budget to Actuals through 1/31/2024
• WESTCOMM Audit RFP Review
• Hilltop Tentative Financing Schedule/Borrowing Update
• Transfer Policy Draft review

Historical Commission

The Monson Historical Commission will meet to discuss matters regarding the Memorial Hall Committee and the property at 96 Main Street. The meeting also includes a period for new business.

• Memorial Hall Committee discussion regarding 96 Main Street

School Committee

The School Committee Policy Subcommittee is meeting to continue the review of district policies. No specific policies or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Continued review of policies

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to discuss the FY 2025 general and transportation budgets. The body will also review various school policies and set a date for a public budget hearing.

• Discussion of FY 2025 Budget
• Discussion of FY 2025 Transportation Budget
• Request to accept donations from Athletic Boosters (pitching machine, lacrosse field sign, swimming record board) and Trelleborg (softball uniforms)
• Review of policies for first, second, and third reads
• Setting the date for the Public Budget Hearing

RePlanting Monson Tree Committee

The committee will review minutes from September 2023 and discuss updates on several ongoing projects. The meeting includes planning for 2024 and reviewing results from community events held in October and December.

• Updates on Flynt Park Chestnuts
• Results of October and December Community Events
• Update on CPC application
• Update on Arts Lottery Application
• Flynt Park/Keep Homestead Trail Committee work

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss FY24 real estate apportionment, exemptions, and abatements. The board is also reviewing a crumbling foundation policy and specific parcel issues at 154 Butler Rd and Munn Rd.

• FY24 Real Estate Exemption Applications
• FY24 Real Estate Abatements
• Crumbling Foundation Policy
• Parcel issues at 154 Butler Rd and Munn Rd
• Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise Abatements

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee is meeting to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining. The meeting is scheduled to move immediately into executive session and will not return to open session.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy

Agriculture Commission

The Agricultural Commission will meet to discuss planning for the Monson Farmer’s Market. The body will also work on developing an Agricultural Producer’s List.

• Monson Farmer’s Market planning
• Agricultural Producer’s List development
• Approval of December 19, 2023 meeting minutes

School Committee

The Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the FY2025 Budget. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• FY2025 Budget

Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors

The Keep Homestead Museum Board of Directors will meet to review financial reports and program updates. The board is scheduled to discuss a proposal for shed repairs and volunteer hours.

• Proposal for shed repairs
• Review of volunteer hours
• Financial report review
• Welcome of new member Diane Vacon

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting in executive session to discuss strategy regarding litigation. The board will vote to enter this session to avoid detrimental effects on their litigating position.

• Discussion of litigation strategy regarding Kyle DeMaio

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review bills for payment and discuss budgets for several town departments. The body will also receive town and financial updates.

• Water/Sewer/Trash department budgets
• Building/Maintenance department budgets
• Pathfinder budget meeting discussion
• Review of bills to pay or appropriate

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will meet to discuss updates regarding spring sports, summer camps, and the town pool. The agenda also includes a review of a babysitter course and pickleball requests.

• Spring Sports
• Pool update
• Summer Camps
• Babysitter Course
• Pickleball request updates

Board of Health

The Monson Board of Health will review a proposed dog feces regulation and vote on revisions to swap shop guidelines. The board will also discuss a bake sale and the Ware Food Truck.

• Proposed Dog Feces regulation presentation by Val Bogacz Beaudoin
• Vote to accept changes to Swap Shop guidelines document
• Planning for Annual Town Meeting regarding substance use/mental health data
• Town-wide cleanup scheduled for April 27
• Wellness Fair scheduled for May 18

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to determine if various construction and demolition projects comply with the Wetlands Protection Act. Discussions include new residential builds, commercial improvements, and state-led infrastructure work.

• Notice of Intent for a new home, septic, and driveway at Upper Hampden Rd
• Notice of Intent for building abatement and demolition at 175 State Ave
• Request for Determination of Applicability for barn removal on State Ave
• Request for Determination of Applicability for Route 32 sidewalk and curb ramp improvements
• Review of unpermitted work in wetland resource areas at Maxwell Road Lot C

WestComm Regional Dispatch

The WestComm Finance Committee will review the FY24 budget to actuals through January 31, 2024. The committee is also scheduled to discuss a Hilltop tentative financing schedule and a draft transfer policy.

• FY24 Budget to Actuals through 1/31/2024
• WC Audit RFP Review
• Budget Calendar Review
• Hilltop Tentative Financing Schedule/Borrowing Update
• Transfer Policy Draft review

Water / Sewer Commission

The Water & Sewer Commission will meet to review department activity and approve February 7, 2024, meeting minutes. The commission is discussing the Meter Replacement Project and the Water & Sewer Budget.

• Meter Replacement Project
• Water & Sewer Budget
• National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES) Assistance

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss the renegotiation of collective bargaining agreements for the IBPO Local #423 and vote on the appointment of Town Counsel. The meeting also includes updates on the FY25 budget and ARPA funds.

• Discussion and vote on the appointment of Town Counsel
• Manufacturing license request from Dazed Cannabis
• Highway Salt Shed feasibility study and cost estimate by Weston & Sampson
• Approval of a new stop sign at the Old Reed / Beebe Road intersection
• Disposition of surplus property including a 2009 GMC C5500 and 1986 John Deere 750 tractor

General Bylaw Committee

The General Bylaw Committee is meeting to review specific town bylaws. The session includes discussions on dog regulations and the definitions regarding contracts by town officers.

• Article 13: Dog Regulations
• Article 5: Contracts by Town Officers

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review bills for payment and discuss department budgets. The agenda includes financial updates for the town.

• Highway Department budget discussion
• Finance Department budget discussion
• Review of bills to pay or appropriate

School Committee

The Monson School Committee Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the FY2025 Budget. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• FY2025 Budget

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will discuss the status of opening plots at older cemeteries and review administrative procedures used by surrounding municipalities. The body will also evaluate the condition of cemetery equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings.

• Updates on opening plots at older cemeteries
• Findings on cemetery administrative procedures from surrounding municipalities
• Review of equipment, walls, fences, grounds, and buildings

Hampden County Regional Retirement Board

The Hampden County Regional Retirement Board will meet to approve retirement allowances, new member applications, and financial warrants. The board is also considering new health, dental, and vision insurance rates.

• Vote to reaffirm $4,500,000.00 transfer from PRIT to Money Market for March 2024 payroll and expenses
• Vote to consider new health, dental, and vision insurance rates
• Vote to approve new retirement allowances for individuals in Agawam, Brimfield, East Longmeadow, Hamp/Wilb, and Palmer
• Vote to consider retirement applications for Carol Augustino, Diane Mercadante, Jayson Findlay, Usa Diotalevi, Roger Bush Jr., and Carole Tardif
• Approval of Pre-Close Trial Balance for December 31, 2023

School Committee

The Human Resources/Negotiations Subcommittee is meeting to enter an executive session. The purpose of the session is to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining.

• Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining strategy

Community Preservation Committee

The committee will review applications for funding and discuss current fund allocations. The meeting includes updates on open projects and a review of previous meeting minutes.

• Application from Monson Historical Society, Inc.
• Application for Softball Field Renovation
• Application for High School Track Equipment
• Review of CPC Fund Allocations

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk provides information regarding polling hours and locations for the election. Residents can vote in person or via mail-in ballot.

• Polling hours are 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• In-person voting at Memorial Hall, 198 Main St.
• Mail-in ballots must be received by the close of polls

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining or litigation. This is a closed session pursuant to M.G.L. c.30A, Sec 21(8).

• Discussion of collective bargaining or litigation strategy