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Townsend, MA

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TownsendMA averageUS Census ACS
Population
1,082
Per-capita income
$47,665
Median home value
$344,400
Bachelor's or higher
30%
Typical home value $518,344 +1.8% yr/yr · +30.7% 5-yr
Home-value trend 2000–2026 (Zillow ZHVI)
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🗳️ How this town voted (52 contests)
Official town-by-town returns — MA Secretary of the Commonwealth (PD43+). ✓ marks this town's plurality choice.
U.S. Senate 2024-11-05
John Deaton ✓ 3,150 · Elizabeth Ann Warren 2,315
U.S. House — 3rd Congressional 2024-11-05
Lori Loureiro Trahan ✓ 3,730
State Senate — Worcester and Middlesex 2024-11-05
Nicholas A. Pirro, III ✓ 2,747 · John J. Cronin 2,580
State Representative — 1st Middlesex 2024-11-05
Lynne E. Archambault ✓ 2,971 · Margaret R. Scarsdale 2,417
Register of Deeds — Middlesex Southern 2024-11-05
Maria C. Curtatone ✓ 2,448 · William Tauro 2,316
President 2024-11-05
Trump/ Vance ✓ 2,846 · Harris/ Walz 2,557 · Ayyadurai/ Ellis 41 · Oliver/ Ter Maat 27 · Stein/ Caballero-Roca 26 · De La Cruz/ Garcia 6
Governor's Council — 7th 2024-11-05
Andrew J. Couture ✓ 2,865 · Paul M. Depalo 2,322
Clerk of Courts — Middlesex County 2024-11-05
Michael A. Sullivan ✓ 3,722
U.S. Senate 2024-09-03
John Deaton ✓ 343 · Robert J. Antonellis 166 · Ian Cain 24
U.S. Senate 2024-09-03
Elizabeth Ann Warren ✓ 602
U.S. House — 3rd Congressional 2024-09-03
Lori Loureiro Trahan ✓ 613
State Senate — Worcester and Middlesex 2024-09-03
John J. Cronin ✓ 593
🗳️ Ballot measures (1)
Propositions decided directly by voters.
Q6: Sections 3 to 7 of Chapter 44B of the General Laws of Massachusetts, also known as the Community Preservation Act…
2024-11-05 · Passed — 2,939 yes / 2,396 no

Recent meetings

Thu Jul 16, 2026

Meeting

Town sets dates for special election to fill two Select Board seats

This document lists key dates for the 2026 election cycle, including a Town Special Election on October 6 to fill two new Select Board seats. It also provides deadlines for candidate nomination papers, voter registration, and mail-in ballots for the State Primary (September 1) and State Election (November 3). The agenda is purely informational and procedural, with no decisions or discussions scheduled.

electionsselect-boardvoter-registrationtown-clerkspecial-electionstate-primarystate-election
Agenda (official) · cached copy
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Office of the Town Clerk TOWN OF TOWNSEND 272 Main Street Townsend, Massachusetts 01469 Harrison C. Mayotte, Town Clerk Office: (978) 597-1704 Jack Crory, Assistant Town Clerk Email: [email protected] Townsend Political Calendar – June-December 2026 Last Updated: 6/30/2026 The Town Clerk shall not furnish blank forms for nomination of candidates for town office to any person other than a candidate seeking such nomination or a person presenting the signed authorization of a candidate to secure said forms on their behalf (MGL c. 53 § 17). Each candidate shall file with the Town Clerk, prior to obtaining blank nomination papers, a log book entry or statement containing their name and address, and the office for which they intend to be a candidate (MGL c. 53 § 9A). Candidates for town offices currently require at least fifty (50) certified signatures from registered Townsend voters (MGL c. 53 § 6). Candidates shall receive the number of blank nomination papers necessary to obtain five times the required number of signatures. The Clerk strongly recommends obtaining additional signatures to account for any invalid ones. Nomination papers must contain the written acceptance of the candidate (MGL c. 53 § 9). Date in 2026 Event or Deadline Monday July 6th Blank nomination papers available at Town Clerk’s Office for candidates for Town Special Election. Friday August 14th, 5:00 PM Last day and hour for candidates for the Town Special Election to obtain blank …
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Thu Jul 9, 2026

Revised

Townsend Historic District Commission to review Stewart’s Florist sign change

The Townsend Historic District Commission will review an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to modify the sign at Stewart’s Florist on the Common. The applicant proposes replacing the current white and pink painted wood sign with a blackened green wood sign featuring gold serifed text and a floral design, adjusting its size and positioning.

historic-preservationsignagetownsendhistoric-district-commissionflorist
Agenda (official) · cached copy
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nee | JUN 2 3 2026 TOWN OF TOWNSEND TOWN CLERK HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION 272 Main Street Townsend, MA 01469 Application for: Certificate of Appropriateness (Please check one) Cc Certificate of Hardship See page 2 for O Certificate of non Applicability descriptions Name and address of owner Address of property (if same write same) Margaret Jones Stewart's Florist 77 Vinton Pond Road 252 Main Street West Townsend, MA 01474 Townsend, MA 01469 Phone: _( ) email NOTE: Owner must be applicant or legal representative of owner Describe the object of your application. Use and include any additional pages for pictures, drawings, measurements, materials to be used etc. as necessary. This application is for permission to improve the sign in front of Stewart’s Florist on the Common. The sign is currently white and pink painted wood on a white signpost. The sign is 2’7” tall by 4’ wide. My proposed sign and post are wood painted a blackened green with gold serifed text and a floral design. The proposed sign is slightly taller and slimmer, but is generally the same size. There’s a bit more breathing room between the sign and the post in the proposed design. The bottom of the sign will sit up to a foot lower than the current positioning. This adjusted size and spacing is more visually appealing and historically appropriate (1850s). Exact dimensions and how low the sign hangs will depend on what looks the best in person. Thank you for considering my application. | grew up in Ashby’s h …
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Thu Jun 25, 2026

Revised

Townsend Historic District Commission reviews building plans for 401 Main Street

The Townsend Historic District Commission will review an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to submit building plans for a property at 401 Main Street. The meeting will consider whether the proposed exterior changes comply with local historic district rules under Massachusetts General Law 40C.

historic-preservationzoningtownsend-macertificate-of-appropriatenessbuilding-permits
Agenda (official) · cached copy
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ie JUN 1-1-2026 TOWN CF TOWNSEND HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION TOWN CLERE 272 Main Street Townsend, MA 01469 Application for: Ly Certificate of Appropriateness (Please check one) | Certificate of Hardship See page 2 for oO Certificate of non Applicability descriptions Name and address of owner Address of property (if same write same) Tiffany Inoa 401 main st townsend ma 01474 401 main st townsend ma 01474 Phone: email NOTE: Owner must be applicant or legal represkinative of Agner!l.com Describe the object of your application. Use and include any additional pages for pictures, drawings, measurements, materials to be used etc. as necessary. Submitting building plans for approval from the HDC Ve — OWNERS SIGNATURE: _[/ /) Commission use below this line fl / Dates: Panel Membership: oo! Decision/Reason(s) Meeting Chair Notices Member. Hearing Member. Decision Member TC filing Member. Member Member Alternate Local Historic District Commissions are governed by Massachusetts General Law 40C inclusive, the following is a reprint of sections 5, 6 and 9, to help you with some definitions and to fill out the form appropriately. MGL40C section 5; Definitions As used in this chapter, the word “altered” includes the words “rebuilt”, “reconstructed”, “restored”, “removed” and “demolished” and the phrase “changed” in exterior color’; the word “building” means a combination of materials forming a shelter for persons, animals or property; the word “commission” means the commission ac …
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Thu Jun 18, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: CPC approves May minutes, discusses CPA plan and timeline

The Community Preservation Committee approved the minutes from the May meeting and discussed updates to the CPA webpage, a meeting with Groton's CPC chair, and plans for a public hearing in September. No funding decisions or project approvals were made.

Minutes
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; TOWN SE; Kim Greenough, CLERK At-Large Maria Millikin, VICE CHAIR Historic District Commission Appointee Robert Juusola, At Large Member Robert Therrien, CHAIR, Cemetery and Parks Appointee Irene Congdon, Townsend Housing Authority Appointee Sandra Lord, Conservation Commission Appointee COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING 6/18/2026 at 6PM MEETING MINUTES- I. PRELIMINARIES - VOTES MAY BE TAKEN: 1.1 Call the meeting to order and roll call Meeting was called to order at 6:06PM with Robert Therrien, Maria Millikin, and Kim Greenough present in person in the Select Board’s Chambers 272 Main Street Townsend, MA, and Lance McNally in attendance remotely. 1.2 Announce the meeting is being recorded and uploaded to YouTube/Confirm if other parties are recording 1.3 Pledge of Allegiance 1.4 Review/Approve the meeting minutes for 05/21/2026 Motion was made by Maria Millikin and seconded by Kim Greenough to approve the 5/21/2026 meeting minutes as submitted. Roll Call Vote Kim Greenough aye, Maria Millikin aye, Robert Therrien aye, Lance McNally abstaining (motion passed) Il. MEETING BUSINESS - VOTES MAY BE TAKEN: 2.1 Monthly CPA Budget Update — Robert Juusola - Tabled 2.2 CPC web page: https://townsendma.gov/government/community_preservation_committee.php * Maria reported that the long & short versions of Community Preservation Coalition slide deck have been added to the webpage ¢ Kim reported that Sabrina Moore is working on creating a general email box, with the goal of …
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Tue Jun 16, 2026

Joint Meeting with Select Board Revision 1

✓ Decided: Select Board appoints two members to Housing Authority positions

The Townsend Housing Authority held a joint meeting with the Select Board and made two appointments to state representative positions. Jack Moran and Hartley Pleshaw were appointed to the roles. No other substantive decisions were made.

Minutes
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peeere Townsend Housing Authority - Meeting Minutes JUL 05 2026 Date: June 16, 2026 TOWN OF TOWNSEND TOWN CLERK Location: Joint session with the Select Board in Townhall Roll Call: Jack Moran, Irene Congdon, Hartley Pleshaw and Bernadette Oinonen 1. Appointment to Housing Authority - State Representative Position e« Motion: Bernadette was nominated by Jack. * Second: Irene seconded the motion. e Vote: Jack, Irene, and Hartley voted yes. « Outcome: Select Board approved the appointment. 2. Appointment to State Representative Position for Housing e Motion: Hartley was nominated by Jack. e¢ Second: Irene seconded the motion. « Vote: Jack, Irene, and Hartley voted yes. e Outcome: Hartley was appointed. e Hartley has the state form. 3. Upcoming Meetings e RCAP Meeting: Jack will schedule a Zoom meeting. o Date:TBA « Regular Housing Authority Meeting: o ©Date: July 16 °o Time: 6:00 PM o Notes: Regular meeting held on the 3rd Thursday of the month. 4. Adjournment e Motion to adjourn passed with all in favor.
Mon Jun 8, 2026

Revised

Planning Board to vote on continuing Seaver Road hearing to July 13

The Planning Board will consider a request from the applicant, LAND DESIGN COLLABORATIVE on behalf of Belvidere Capital LLC, to continue the public hearing for the Form C Definitive Plan and Stormwater Management Application for the “Seaver Road Extension” project from June 8, 2026 to July 13, 2026. The applicant also proposes extending the board’s decision deadline to July 27, 2026 under M.G.L. Chapter 41, §81-U.

planning-boardpublic-hearingsubdivisionstormwaterseaver-road
Agenda (official) · cached copy
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LAND DESIGN COLLABORATIVE, May 27, 2026 / VE JUN D 0 r. Andrew Shepherd, Chair SEND p Planning Board “AN, c/o Ms. Beth Faxon, Administrative Assistant 0) Land Use Office 272 Main Street 2™ Floor Townsend, Massachusetts 01469 Re: Request for Continuance of Public Hearing and Grant of Extension Decision Deadline Form C Application for a Definitive Plan . Stormwater Management Application D E G E | V E “Seaver Road Extension” 0 Seaver Road JUN 01 2026 Townsend, MA, 01469 TOWN GF TOWNSEND Dear Chairman Shepherd and Members of the Board: TOWN CLERK On Behalf of the Applicant, Belvidere Capital, LLC, we respectfully Request a Continuance of the public hearing from June 8, 2026, to a date certain of July 13, 2026. In addition to this Request, we hereby Grant an Extension to the Planning Board’s Decision to Act on the Definitive Plan to a date certain of July 27, 2026. We are making this Request and Grant of Extension in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 41, §81-U. We thank you in advance for your attention to this Request for a Continuance and Grant of Extension and look forward to meeting with the Board to continue the dialogue of the Form C Application on the evening of July 13°". Sincerely, SIGN COLLABORATIVE Wayne Principal Belec, Project Manager cc: Mr. Harrison Mayotte, Town Clerk Mr. Thomas F. Fleming, Esquire, Mello Law Offices Atty John Mello, Jr., Belvidere Capital, LLC Atty. David J. Plunkett, Esquire, Plunkett and Plunkett, Attorneys at Law Mr. Peter DiPaoli, FWP R …
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Wed May 27, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Conservation Restriction Committee approves grant application and officer slate

The committee appointed new officers and voted to apply for an NRWA 2026 Land Protection Grant. Members also agreed to send a draft Conservation Restriction to Town Counsel in July and pursue a quilt raffle for funding.

Minutes
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ECEIVE Conservation Restriction Committee JUL May 27, 2026 - Minutes To 2 ? 2026 |. Preliminaries WN OF TOWNSEND 1.1 Meeting was called to order at 7:05 PM. TOWN CLERK Present: Emily Fine (remote), Mike Potsaid, Valerie Goodrich, Salina Thomas. 1.2 It was announced that the meeting was being recorded and would be uploaded to YouTube. No one else was recording. 1.3 There were no unanticipated topics for the agenda. 1.4 EF moved to approve the minutes from 5/14/2026. MP seconded. There were no corrections to the minutes. Minutes were approved by roll call vote: 3 Yeas (EF, MP, ST)and 1 abstention (VG). ll. Business 2.1 Committee reorganization. VG nominated Salina Thomas for chair. MP seconded. EF nominated Valerie Goodrich for vice chair. MP seconded. MP nominated Emily Fine for clerk. VG seconded. VG moved that the committee approve the entire slate of officers. MP seconded. The slate of officers was approved unanimously by roll call vote. 2.2 CR status. North County Land Trust reviewed the draft CR and made some edits. Anna Wilkins explained those edits which included: a) in the reserved rights section, to eliminate the need to get approval from NCLT if F&W already approves; b) remove term “woods roads”; c) add that newtrails are discouraged and any trail changes need permission from NCLT; d) define “footpath” by width. ST received response from the water department that the CR looked good. MESA asked for a well ID number. However, the well does not exist yet. Instead …
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Tue May 26, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Townsend Cultural Council plans 'Meet the Artist' event for August 13

The council approved minutes from April 28 and discussed plans for a 'Meet the Artist' event on August 13 at the Library/Senior Center Meeting Hall, featuring 12 artists. A survey will be distributed digitally and on paper, with Laura and Linda reviewing last year's version. The West Townsend Reading Room sale is moot after the town voted not to sell. Grant reimbursements are still pending from Pepperell Community Arts and Kym Craven.

Minutes
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) ECEIVE Townsend Cultural Council JUL 05 2026 May 26 2026 TOWN OF TOWNSEND Library Conference Room TOWN CLERK 5:00 P.M. 1, Attendance: Pam Pingsterhaus, Alice Struthers, Nancy French, Laura Doell, Linda Durette 2. Minutes: Reviewed 04/28/2026 and approved 3. Old Business a. e. Discuss plans for “Meet the Artist” It will be August 13th Thursday 4-7:30 Library/Senior Center Meeting Hall. A flyer has been created and is edited during the discussion. 12 Artists which will include weaving, paper weaving, pottery, collage, watercolor, spinning, pen and ink, macrame, needle felting, embroidery, wood, and visible mending. Next steps: Artists need to be collected- Nancy and Laura. Newsletter Deadlines to advertise: Nancy. We will need a planning meeting once Artists are collected. Plan for survey: will go out digitally and on paper. We got 20-30 responses last year. Laura and Linda will review last year’s and decide if it needs to be updated. Alice suggests a style that only has 5 questions and relies on have you attended ... questions, and then ends with is there any other art activities you would like. West Townsend Reading Room: Moot- town has voted not to sell Grant reimbursement: Pepperell Community Arts, And Kym Craven are the only ones who still haven't Final Reports are coming in and will be filed 4. New Business a. b. Laura wants to attend the fund raising meeting. 6/15 at 69m When do members tenure end? We can check the website. 5. Next Meeting: 6/30/26 5-6
Thu May 21, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: CPC approves amended budget article for Annual Town Meeting

The Community Preservation Committee approved the minutes from April 30, 2026, and reviewed the amended budget article that passed at the Annual Town Meeting on May 5, 2026. The committee discussed updating its website email address and planning a public hearing after July 1. No other substantive decisions were made.

Minutes
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Kim Greenough, CLERK At-Large Maria Millikin, VICE CHAIR Historic District Commission Appointee Robert Juusola, At Large Member Robert Therrien, CHAIR, Cemetery and Parks Appointee Irene Congdon, Townsend Housing Authority Appointee Sandra Lord, Conservation Commission Appointee COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING 5/21/2026 at 6PM MEETING MINUTES 1. PRELIMINARIES - VOTES MAY BE TAKEN: 1.1 Call the meeting to order and roll call. Meeting was called to order at 6:05PM with Robert Therrien, Robert Juusola, lrene Congdon, Maria Millikin, and Kim, Greenough present in person in the Select Board’s Chambers 272 Main Street Townsend, MA. 1.2 Announce the meeting is being recorded and uploaded to YouTube/Confitm if other parties are recording 1.3 Review/Approve the meeting minutes for 04/30/2026 Motion was made by Irene Congdon and seconded by Robert Juusola to approve the 4/30/2026 meeting minutes as submitted. Roll Call Vote Irene Congdon aye, Maria Millikin aye, Robert Juusola aye, Robert Therrien aye, Kim Greenough abstaining (motion passed) Il. MEETING BUSINESS - VOTES MAY BE TAKEN: 2.1 Review/discuss the town web page created for our committee. Members acknowledged the existing page on the town Website: https://townsendma.gov/government/community preservation _committce.php containing links to additional information about the CPA program. Maria will check with Jack Crory about possibly adding the slide deck/shortened version of the Coalition presentation, which was used …
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Wed May 20, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: COA approves new transportation coordinator, van driver

The Townsend Council on Aging approved the minutes and voted to hire Donna Howard as transportation coordinator. Rob Foster was introduced as the new van driver. A new caregiver support group was announced. The FY2026 budget was approved at Town Meeting.

Minutes
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L 012026 I Council on Aging Meeting Minutes _ : GCSE TOWN, TOWN CLERINNO Chair, Lynn Pinkerton Vice Chair, Trish Baker Clerk, Marylou Vest May 20, 2026 Townsend Senior Center Chairperson Lynn Pinkerton called the meeting to order at 3:15pm. 1.1 Roll call present Trish Baker, JoAnn Bronkema, Anne Foresman, Carol Swenor, Natalie Call, Marylou Vest. Not present Director Elise Johnson, Judy Poudrier, Susan Gerken 2.1 Confirm If Other Parties Are Recording - No 2.2 Old Business - None 3.1 Review of Minutes Board reviewed to accept minutes for May 20, 2026. First motion to accept minutes. Natalie Call Second motion Trish Baker. All Voted unanimously. 4.1 Transportation Coordinator Position. The position was filled by Donna Howard; COA Board voted her unanimously for the position of Transportlon Coordinator. 4.2 New Van Driver, Rob Foster starts his first day on May 15, 2026 4.3 New Care Giver Support Group - First meeting June 17, 2026 at 2pm. 4.4 FY '27 Budget was approved at the Town Meeting on May 5, 2026. Natalie Call made the first motion to Adjourn the meeting at 3:32pm Second motion Trish Baker. Next meeting June 17, 2026 @ 3:15 Respectfully Submitted By: Marylou Vest Clerk:
Thu May 14, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Townsend Historic District Commission holds public hearings on stone wall and rebuilt rectory

The commission voted unanimously to hold a public hearing for a stone wall at 401 Main Street and discussed a preliminary proposal to rebuild the fire-destroyed house at 20 Highland Street, with no vote taken. The April minutes were tabled to the June meeting, and the chair signed off on a roof replacement at 249 Main Street as an in-kind change.

Minutes
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pee PIVE a N 09 2026 Townsend Historic District Commission Town ¢ Own OWNS TO\ | Minutes Meeting May 14th, 2026 Own CLERK ND Meeting was called to order at 5:00pm by Chair Maryjane Churchville Present were: Chair, Maryjane Churchville, Clare Kauppi, Jerrilyn Bozicas, Laura Shifrin, James Deroian, Maria Millikin and Kathleen Spofford, a quorum were present; Susan Gerken was absent. Confirmation no one was recording meeting other than TCAM Reminder meeting is run according to Robert’s Rules; any comments must first be recognized by Chair and no interrupting or talking over current speaker Motion to extend vote on April 24" Minutes to June meeting made by JB 2" by LS Passed by unanimous vote. Discussions on Applications of Appropriateness: 1. 401 Main Street for Tiffany Inoa for erection of a stone wall along Main Street Motion to hold Public Hearing at 7:00PM made by CK 2™ by JB Passed by unanimous vote 2. 20 Highland Street (former Fessenden House/St. John’s Rectory) Father Sean made a preliminary presentation on rebuilding the house destroyed by fire. Board Members explained the process necessary to receive a Certificate of Appropriateness. Father Sean will re-submit the completed Application along with plans to be stamped in and scheduled for review by the Board. No votes were taken 3. 249 Main Street replace roof in kind Chairman signed off — no vote required for in kind replacement Discussion on notifications to residents of Historic District MM submitted price …
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Thu May 14, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Conservation Restriction Committee sets two-week deadline for water department response

The committee updated a conservation restriction (CR) document to include sledding rights and coordinated a review process with town counsel and the water department. Members discussed a funding gap of $6,000 to $7,000 for BDR funding and identified potential grant sources.

Minutes
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Conservation Restriction Committee Minutes - May 14, 2026 |. Preliminaries 1.1 Meeting was called to order at 7:05 PM. Roll call: Emily Fine (remote), Mike Potsaid, Salina Thomas. 1.2 ST announced that the meeting was being recorded and would be uploaded to YouTube. No one else was recording the meeting. 1.3 There were no unanticipated topics for the agenda. 1.4 MP moved to accept the minutes of 4/6/2026 and 4/13/2026. EF seconded. There were no corrections to the minutes. Minutes were approved unanimously by rollcall vote. EF shared the minutes of 4/23/2026. MP moved to approve them. EF seconded. Minutes of 4/23/2026 were approved unanimously by rollcall vote. ll. Meeting Business 2.1 Committee reviewed the comments from Misty-Ann Marold of NHESP. Most of her edits were text-related. Committee also added a statement in the reserved rights section to allow sledding on snow-covered slopes. ST will ask Misty-Ann whether she needs to re-review the CR after the committee’s new changes. Next steps include sharing the edits with Anna of NCLT, and sending the document to town counsel for review. ST will share the CR plan with the water department to confirm that the plan and CR show the greatest possible footprint for the future town well. Committee will request a response within a certain time frame. MP moved that CR committee request water department respond within two weeks of receipt of the CR and plan. EF seconded. Motion passed unanimously by rollcall vote. 2.2 Kieran …
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Wed May 13, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Conservation Commission recommends Abigail Farley for membership

The Conservation Commission approved the meeting minutes from March 11, 2026, and recommended Abigail Farley for a commission term ending June 30, 2026. Several hearings and appointments were continued to future meetings. The commission also identified properties to pursue for a Nashua River Wild and Scenic Stewardship Council land grant.

Minutes
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fie fi CONSERVATION COMMISSION E C E V E Town of Townsend 272 Main Street JUL 27 2026 Townsend, Massachusetts 01469 TOWN OF TOWNSEND 978-597-1700, ext. 1733 TOWN CLERK conservation(é townsendma.vov Chair: James Gates (2024) — Vice-Chair: Kevin Smith (2026) Clerk: James Deroian (2025) Patricia Jemiolo (2025) Mike Potsaid (2026) Vacant (1) Vacant (2) Conservation Agent: Colby Streeter Meeting of the Townsend Conservation Commission MEETING MINUTES Wednesday May 13, 2026 @ 7:00 pm THIS IS AN OPEN MEETING AND ALL ARE INVITED TO ATTEND SELECTMEN’S CHAMBERS, 272 MAIN STREET, TOWNSEND, MA Or via remote ZOOM for convenience Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technical problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required to by law. Members of the public with interest in a specific agenda item should make plans for in-person attendance. TCAM Inc. is inviting you to the scheduled Zoom meeting https://usO2web.zoom.us/j/81268129196?pwd=G1E7eblSo3t5YnvZRzKJddO1 UWwHRYH.1 Meeting ID: 812 6812 9196 Passcode: 848180 One tap mobile +16469313860,,812681291 96#,,,,*848180# US +19292056099, 812681291 96#,,,,*848180# US (New York) Join instructions https://usO2web.zoom.us/meetings/81268129196/invitations?signature=ExbyLtLWnpRk4l ZCC2XShGISEHOAYpAKCGHp5meOA0 1.0 Preliminaries - Votes may be taken: 1.1-Call the meeting to order and …
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Mon May 11, 2026

Revised

✓ Decided: Planning Board continues hearings on solar, subdivision, stormwater permits

The Planning Board continued three public hearings to June 8, 2026: a modification to the Locke Brook Solar site plan at 22 West Meadow Road, a definitive subdivision and stormwater permit for Seaver Road Extension, and a stormwater permit modification at 3 Wheeler Road. The Board also appointed Cindy Marie King as its representative to the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission and Joint Transportation Committee, and authorized staff to recommend a special permit modification for the Depot Street Condominium. No final approvals or denials were issued on the major applications.

Minutes
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Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CURRENT VERSION POSTING TIME STAMP: Planning Board TOWN OF TOWNSEND (IF THIS IS A REVISION:) MEETING minutes ORIGINAL AGENDA POSTING TIME: May 11, 2026, at 6:30 PM EST Selectboard Chambers in Townsend Town Hall 272 Main Street E 6 E l V E Townsend, Massachusetts 01469 JUN 2 2 2026 I. PRELIMINARIES — VOTES MAY BE TAKEN*: TOWN OF TOWNSEND TOWN CLERK 1.1 Call the meeting to order and call. Chair Andrew Shepherd called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Members Present: Andrew Shepherd (A.S.) (Chair), Brett King (B.K.), Cindy Marie King (C.M.K) (Clerk), Carol Hoffses (C.H.) (Vice Chair) Robert Therrien (R.T.) Staff: Elizabeth Faxon, Administrative Assistant. 1.2 Pledge of Allegiance. The Board and attendees recited the Pledge of Allegiance. 1.3 Announce the meeting is being recorded and uploaded to Town of Townsend YouTube channel. The Chair announced that the meeting was being recorded and would be uploaded to the Town of Townsend YouTube channel, 1.4 Annual Organizational Agenda Item: Appointment of Planning Board members to the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission and the Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee. The Board discussed appointments of Planning Board representatives to the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) and the Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (MJTC). Cindy Marie King expressed interest in serving on both committees. After discussion, the Board agreed that Beth Faxon will transition off the MJTC, with Cindy assuming bo …
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Thu May 7, 2026

Revised

✓ Decided: Board enters executive session to discuss pending litigation, no public decisions made

The Select Board met in open session only to vote unanimously to enter executive session to discuss strategy in the case Roman-Ramirez v. Town of Townsend. The board did not return to open session, and no substantive public decisions were made. Approval of prior meeting minutes was tabled.

Minutes
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Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
OFFICE OF THE SELECT BOARD 272 Main Street Townsend Massachusetts 01469 Valerie Goodrich, Chair Laura Shifrin, Vice Chair Sarah Logan, Clerk Kieran Meehan, Interim Town Administrator Sabrina Moore, Administrative Assistant 1 Select Board Meeting Minutes 05/07/2026 at 5:00PM 1. Roll Call Valerie Goodrich called the meeting of the Select Board to order on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The meeting was held via remote participation only. Roll call was conducted with Valerie Goodrich present remotely, Laura Shifrin present remotely and Sarah Logan present remotely. 2. Announce that the meeting is being recorded and uploaded to YouTube; Confirm if other parties are recording Valerie Goodrich announced that the meeting was being recorded and would be uploaded to YouTube. She inquired whether any other parties present were recording the meeting. No additional parties indicated that they were recording. 3. Review Agenda & Announcements No formal announcements were made by board members. Interim Town Administrator Kieran Meehan offered a procedural reminder that members participating remotely should identify themselves by full name and note that they are attending remotely when casting votes. 4. Approve Meeting Minutes: 4/28/2026 The approval of the April 28, 2026 meeting minutes was tabled to a future meeting. 5. Executive Session pursuant to Open Meeting Law (Chapter 30A Section 21(a)(3)): To discuss strategy with pending litigation, namely Roman …
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Wed May 6, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Energy Committee approves past minutes, notes record backlog

The Townsend Energy Committee approved minutes from its April 8, 2026 meeting and a previously omitted March 2025 joint meeting. The committee also learned that about 60 agendas and minutes from 2022-2023 were never scanned into the town record, with no TEC activity recorded for 2023. No new grant opportunities were identified, and the Memorial Hall Retro Commissioning Study remains pending until the building's AC can be tested.

Minutes
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Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
TEC TOWNSEND ENERGY COMMITTEE 272 Main Street Townsend, Massachusetts, MA 01469 Ron Montgomery, Chair; Michael Brown, Ph.D., Vice-Chair. Kathy Thompson, Member; TWO OPEN SEATS. TOWNSEND ENERGY COMMITTEE MINUTES Wednesday, May 6th, 2026, 4:00pm, Memorial Hall, Select Board Chambers and Virtually Call Meeting to Order: Time- 4:00pm EGEIVE Members Attending: In person: MB, RM Virtually: None JUL 0.8 2026 Also attending: None TOWN OF TOWNSEND TOWN CLERK o Previous meeting minutes - Chair requested closing of 4/8/2026 meeting: MB,y RM,y - Chair requested consideration of previously omitted Minutes after the - March 4", 2025 joint meeting with SB for the MRPC presentation of Townsend’s Green Communities Grant Program Annual Report. Minutes Submitted for approval: MB,y RM.,y - Considered minutes of April 8th, 2026 meeting for approval: MB,y RM,y. Approved o TEC Minutes Status - John Crory, Assistant Town Clerk advised he has backlog of about 60 TEC Agenda’s and Minutes never scanned into the record in a drawer,. - Has offered to scan batches received as soon as possible as time allows. - In 2023 TEC had 6 meetings. No Town record of any TEC activity in this year. - In 2022 TEC had 7 meetings. Only 4 agendas and no minutes scanned. - Continuing project. o GCGP current projects status - This Grant Project is still open. The Memorial Hall Retro Commissioning Study will be completed when the building AC can be tested. - No new Grant opportunities identified. Continued on pa …
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Tue May 5, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Select Board approves 3-year police chief contract, shifts $109,900 to salary reserve

The Select Board unanimously approved a three-year employment contract for Police Chief Jay Sartell. The board also voted to reallocate $109,900 from a reduced school assessment into the Select Board Salary Reserve/Contracts line to support pending union negotiations, keeping the total FY27 budget unchanged at $28,644,820. Several appointments were made to town boards and committees.

Minutes
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
OFFICE OF THE SELECT BOARD 272 Main Street Townsend Massachusetts 01469 Valerie Goodrich, Chair Laura Shifrin, Vice Chair Sarah Logan, Clerk Kieran Meehan, Interim Town Administrator Sabrina Moore, Administrative Assistant 1 Select Board Meeting Minutes 05/05/2026 at 5:00PM 1. Roll Call & Pledge Chair Valerie Goodrich called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM with Valerie Goodrich, Laura Shifrin and Sarah Logan all present in person. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the Vice Chair Laura Shifrin. Laura Shifrin thanked veterans, active service members, first responders, town staff, and elected and appointed officials, as well as their families, for their contributions to the Town of Townsend. 2. Announce That The Meeting Is Being Recorded And Uploaded To YouTube; Confirm If Other Parties Are Recording Valerie Goodrich announced that the meeting was being recorded and would be uploaded to YouTube. No other parties indicated they were recording. 3. Review Agenda & Announcements Valerie Goodrich requested, with Board concurrence, that Agenda Item 8.1 (Police Chief Employment Contract) be moved forward on the agenda should the Police Chief arrive during the meeting. The Board agreed. Announcement: The Friends of the Library annual plant sale was announced for the upcoming Saturday. Residents interested in donating or acquiring perennials were encouraged to attend. Additional information was noted to be available on the Library webpage. 4. Approve Me …
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Tue May 5, 2026

Annual Town Meeting

Town voters to decide $1.3M in new spending and zoning changes

The Townsend Annual Town Meeting will decide on a $1.3 million spending package, including road repairs, public safety equipment, and zoning amendments. Residents will also vote on several capital projects and fee adjustments.

budgetzoningroadspolicewater-sewercapital-projectspublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Town of Townsend approves $28.6M FY27 operating budget

Town meeting voters approved the Fiscal Year 2027 operating budget and several enterprise fund appropriations. The meeting also authorized the sale of multiple vacant town-owned properties and transferred funds to cover snow and ice deficits.

Agenda (official) · cached copy · Minutes
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📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
May 5th, 2026 Annual and Special Town Meeting Page 1 of 13 TOWN OF TOWNSEND In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts ANNUAL AND SPECIAL TOWN MEETING MINUTES May 5, 2026, 7:00 pm The Annual Town Meeting began at 7:13 pm at the North Middlesex Regional High School, 19 Main Street, Townsend, MA 01469. Quorum was met with 169 voters present and 9 visitors present. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Boy Scouts of Troop 10. Moderator John Barrett introduced the Town Clerk Harrison Mayotte ; Interim Town Administrator Kieran Meehan ; Town Counsel Adam J. Costa; and Select Board Members Valerie Goodrich, Laura Shifrin, and Sarah Logan. The Moderator then introduced Finance Committee members Donald Hayes, Maryjane Churchville, Carol Hoffses, David Walker, Jerrilyn Bozicas, and Sam Grant , as well as officials in the audience: Town Treasurer Melissa Dunnet, Police Chief James Sartell, Nashoba Valley Technical School District Superintendent Dr. Denise Pigeon, and North Middlesex Regional School District Superintendent Brad Morgan. Counters were chosen by the Moderator and sworn in by the Town Clerk prior to the start of the meeting: Karen Rapoza, Richard Shuford, Bill Rideout, and Tom Beals. The Moderator instructed those present on the processes of Town Meeting according to Town Meeting Time and our own traditions. The Town Clerk then read the return of the Town Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting. The Moderator nominated Gene Rauhala as Deputy Moderator; the motion …
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Mon May 4, 2026

Revised

Planning Board to hear petition to ease marijuana zoning restrictions

The Townsend Planning Board will hold a public hearing on May 4, 2026, to consider three citizen-petitioned amendments to the Zoning Bylaws regarding medical marijuana treatment centers and cultivation. The proposals would reduce the required buffer zone from 500 feet to 100 feet, allow such facilities in the Outlying Commercial District in addition to Industrial, and remove the requirement that cultivation occur within a building and the statement that it is not an agricultural use. The board will take public comment before deciding whether to place these articles on the Annual Town Meeting warrant.

zoningmarijuanapublic-hearingplanning-boardcitizens-petition
✓ Decided: Planning Board rejects citizen petition on marijuana zoning changes

The Planning Board voted 4-0 not to recommend a citizen petition proposing amendments to the Town's Zoning Bylaws regarding medical marijuana treatment centers, dispensing facilities, and commercial cultivation. The Board found the proposed changes rushed and requiring more comprehensive review. The Board will place a follow-up item on a future agenda to develop more comprehensive marijuana/cannabis zoning bylaw amendments.

Agenda (official) · cached copy · Minutes
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
DATE and TIME this paper received by Town Clerk sy] AN The Commonwealth of Massachusetts HeOLAM pew Town of Townsend pes E¢ B | ye a) TO THE HONORABLE SELECT BOARD: FEB 27 2076 We, the undersigned registered voters of the Town of Townsend, acting pursuant to MapusetsBencral Laws Chapter 39, Section 10, hereby demand that the Select Board place on the warrant for the Annual Town Town Meeting the following articles: Article 1: To see if the Town will vote to amend the Townsend Zoning Bylaws to change Ch 145-88D(2) from “Buffer Zone. No medical marijuana treatment and dispensing facilities use or commercial marijuana cultivation activities shall be located within a five-hundred-foot radius from” to “Buffer Zone. No medical marijuana treatment and dispensing facilities use or commercial marijuana cultivation activities shall be located within a one-hundred-foot radius from”, or take any other action relative thereto. Article 2: To see if the Town will vote to amend the Townsend Zoning Bylaws to change Ch 145-88D(1) from “General. Any medical marijuana treatment center or marijuana cultivation activities permitted shall be located only in the Industrial Zoning District.” to “General. Any medical marijuana treatment center or marijuana cultivation activities permitted shall be located in the Industrial Zoning District or Outlying Commercial District.”, or take any other action relative thereto. Article 3: To see if the Town will vote to amend the Townsend Zoning Bylaws t …
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📄 From the minutes
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PUDSIIING TIVIE STAIVIF: Planning Board TOWN OF TOWNSEND (IF THIS IS A REVISION:) meeting minutes ORIGINAL AGENDA POSTING TIME: May 4, 2026, at 6:30 PM EST ECEIVE Selectboard Chambers in Townsend Town Hall 272 Main Street JUN 2 22026 Townsend, Massachusetts 01469 TOWN OF TOWNSEND PRELIMINARIES - VOTES MAY BE TAKEN*: TOWN CLERK 1.1 Call the meeting to order and roll call. * Board members present: Andrew Shepherd (A.S.), Cindy Marie King (C.M.K), Carol Hoffses (C.H.), Robert Therrien (R.T.) Others present: Elizabeth Faxon, Administrative Assistant, 1.2 Pledge of Allegiance. Conducted with appreciation for veterans and those in public service. 1.3 Announce the meeting is being recorded and uploaded to Town of Townsend YouTube channel. Announced. 1.4 Annual Organizational Agenda Item: Seating of Planning Board Members and Reorganization of the Board. The Board conducted its annual reorganization, including seating of members and election of officers for the coming year. Chair Andrew Shepherd welcomed new member Cindy Marie King and congratulated returning member Carol Hoffses. He confirmed that all present members had been sworn in per Massachusetts General Law and standard Town practice. Nominations and Elections: Chair: C.M.K nominated Andrew Shepherd; C.H. seconded. No other nominations. Andrew Shepherd accepted. Roll call vote: YES — C.H., R.T., C.M.K, A.S. The motion carried 4-0-0. Andrew Shepherd continues as Chair. Vice Chair: C.M.K nominated Carol Hoffses to serve …
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Mon May 4, 2026

Legal

Planning Board to hear petition to relax marijuana buffer and district rules

The Townsend Planning Board will hold a public hearing on May 4, 2026, to consider three citizen-petitioned amendments to the Zoning Bylaws regarding medical marijuana facilities. The proposals would reduce the required buffer zone from 500 feet to 100 feet, allow such facilities in the Outlying Commercial District in addition to Industrial, and remove the requirement that cultivation occur within a building and the statement that it is not an agricultural use. The board will take public comment before deciding whether to place these articles on the Annual Town Meeting warrant.

zoningmarijuanapublic-hearingplanning-boardcitizens-petition
Agenda (official) · cached copy
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
DATE and TIME this paper received by Town Clerk sy] AN The Commonwealth of Massachusetts HeOLAM pew Town of Townsend pes E¢ B | ye a) TO THE HONORABLE SELECT BOARD: FEB 27 2076 We, the undersigned registered voters of the Town of Townsend, acting pursuant to MapusetsBencral Laws Chapter 39, Section 10, hereby demand that the Select Board place on the warrant for the Annual Town Town Meeting the following articles: Article 1: To see if the Town will vote to amend the Townsend Zoning Bylaws to change Ch 145-88D(2) from “Buffer Zone. No medical marijuana treatment and dispensing facilities use or commercial marijuana cultivation activities shall be located within a five-hundred-foot radius from” to “Buffer Zone. No medical marijuana treatment and dispensing facilities use or commercial marijuana cultivation activities shall be located within a one-hundred-foot radius from”, or take any other action relative thereto. Article 2: To see if the Town will vote to amend the Townsend Zoning Bylaws to change Ch 145-88D(1) from “General. Any medical marijuana treatment center or marijuana cultivation activities permitted shall be located only in the Industrial Zoning District.” to “General. Any medical marijuana treatment center or marijuana cultivation activities permitted shall be located in the Industrial Zoning District or Outlying Commercial District.”, or take any other action relative thereto. Article 3: To see if the Town will vote to amend the Townsend Zoning Bylaws t …
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Mon May 4, 2026

Revised

Voter residency challenge filed against Joseph Z. Shank

The Board of Registrars will consider a sworn residency challenge filed by Maryjane Churchville against voter Joseph Z. Shank, alleging he does not meet Massachusetts domicile requirements. The challenge cites Shank's sale of his primary Townsend residence, maintenance of homes in Florida and New Hampshire, and possible non-resident tax status. The board must investigate, provide notice and a hearing, and determine Shank's voter eligibility.

voter-registrationresidency-challengeboard-of-registrarselectionsconflict-of-interest
✓ Decided: Board dismisses voter residency challenge against Joseph Shank

The Board of Registrars voted unanimously to dismiss a complaint filed by Maryjane Churchville challenging Joseph Shank's voter residency. The board found insufficient grounds to proceed to a formal hearing. The meeting also included public comment and scheduling of a potential recount meeting.

Agenda (official) · cached copy · Minutes
📄 From the agenda
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To: Board of Registrars of Voters Town of Townsend, MA Subject: Residency Challenge - Joseph Z. Shank Date: 4/28/2026 Complainant: Maryjane Churchville 292 Main Street Townsend, Massachusetts Complaint Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 51, Sections 47 and 48, I hereby submit a formal challenge to the voter registration of Joseph Z. Shank, currently registered at 5A Madison Ave, Townsend, Massachusetts. On information and belief, there is a material question as to whether Mr. Shank satisfies the residency and domicile requirements necessary to remain a registered voter in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and in the Town of Townsend. The following facts, stated on information and belief, support this challenge: 1. Mr. Shank maintains residences in both Florida and New Hampshire, neither of which imposes a state income tax on personal income. On information and belief, Mr. Shank may have strategically shifted his claimed domicile to one of these jurisdictions in connection with the 2025 tax year in order to avoid Massachusetts income tax liability on those income events. 2. Mr. Shank has sold his primary residence in Townsend, Massachusetts. His current registered address at 5A Madison Ave, Townsend, is understood to be a small in-law apartment at the home ofhis daughter or daughter-in-law. The sale of his primary Townsend residence, combined with the maintenance of residences in no-income-tax states, raises a substantial question as to whether Townsend r …
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Chair, Mary Jane O’Hara 1. BOARD OF REGISTRARS D EGEIY j TOWN OF TOWNSEND I sui i620 Y MEETING MINUTES ii ones TOWN CLERK > Member, David Funaiole Member, Daniel Shine Member Ex-Officio, Harrison Mayotte, Town Clerk May 4th, 2026, at 12:30 PM Meeting Room 2 (downstairs) in Townsend Town Hall 272 Main Street Townsend, Massachusetts 01469 In-person and remote participation was available. Roll Call: Chair Mary Jane O’Hara, present in person; David Funaiole, present in person; Daniel Shine, present online. Member Ex-Officio Harrison Mayotte recused himself from this meeting and was not present. Assistant Town Clerk John Crory Jr. and Town Counsel Aileen Bartlett were present in person. Chair O’Hara invited visitors present to introduce themselves if they wished. Townsend residents Joseph Shank, Elaine Shank, Wendy Williams, James Deroian, and Kathleen Spofford were present in person. Announce the meeting is being recorded and uploaded to YouTube; confirm if other parties are recording: Chair O'Hara announced that the meeting was being recorded by TCAM and broadcast on Zoom. No other recordings were announced. Public comment is welcome and encouraged. Please keep comments to items on this agenda and limit them to three minutes. Those not able to attend in person are encouraged to submit a written statement with their name. Please email it to the staff assistant to the Board of Registrars Assistant Town Clerk John Crory at [email protected] and your statement will b …
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Wed Apr 29, 2026

Revised

✓ Decided: ZBA recommends two new members, supports marijuana bylaw changes

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted to recommend Natalie Call and Abigail Farley for full member positions, with terms ending 2030 and 2028 respectively, to be appointed by the Select Board before July 1, 2026. The Board also expressed support for proposed zoning amendments to Section 145-88 (medical marijuana) that would reduce buffer zones, allow open-grown marijuana under agriculture, and expand permitted locations. No formal opposition was raised. A 3-lot subdivision at 0 Seaver Road was referred back with no zoning concerns.

Minutes
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CURRENT VERSION POSTING TIME STAMP: Zoning Board of Appeals TOWN OF TOWNSEND (IF THIS IS A REVISION:) MEETING MINUTES ORIGINAL AGENDA POSTING TIME: Chair, Victoria Janicki Vice Chair, Robert Juusola Clerk, Colby Streeter Member, Vacant Member, Vacant Assoc. Member Darlene Sodano Assoc. Member David Chenelle Assoc. Member, Vacant April 29, 2026, at 6:30 PM EST Selectboard Chambers in Townsend Town Hall D E ¢ E | V E 272 Main Street . Townsend, Massachusetts 01469 JUN 2 2 2026 TOWN OF TOWNSEND In-Person and Remote Participation Available TOWN CLERK 1. Call the meeting to order, Roll Call. The meeting was called to order by Chair Vicky Janicki. Roll call of Board members present were Robert Juusola,(R.J.) Vicky Janicki, (V.J.) David Chenelle (Associate Member),(D.C.), Colby Streeter (C.S.). The Chair designated Mr. Chenelle as a full voting Member for the meeting. D.C. made a motion to open the meeting: R.J. seconded the motion. Roll call vote was taken YES — D.C., C.S., R.J., V.J. The motion carried 4-0-0. Others Present: Laurie Shifrin, Selectboard Liaison, Elizabeth Faxon, ZBA Administrative Assistant, Candidates for vacant seats on the ZBA, Abigail Farley and Natalie Call. Announce the meeting being recorded and uploaded to YouTube. Noted. Review / Approve Minutes: 12-3-25, 2-4-26, 2-18-26. R.J. made a motion to approve the minutes of 12-3-26. Second, by C.S. Roll call as follows: YES: R.J., C.S., V.J., ABS: D.C. the motion carried 3-0-1. R.J. made a motion to approve …
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Tue Apr 28, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Select Board approves FY27 budget of $28.6M after override fails

The Select Board approved the FY27 operating budget totaling $28,644,829 and forwarded it to the Finance Committee and Annual Town Meeting, with the education segment subject to update pending the School Committee. The vote followed the failed April 27 override that would have funded police wage increases. The board also approved Chapter 90 paving for Turnpike Road and Eastman Street, reorganized its officers, and reviewed warrant articles for the May 5 Town Meeting.

Minutes
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OFFICE OF THE SELECT BOARD 272 Main Street Townsend Massachusetts 01469 Valerie Goodrich, Chair Laura Shifrin, Vice Chair Sarah Logan, Clerk Kieran Meehan, Interim Town Administrator Sabrina Moore, Administrative Assistant 1 Select Board Meeting Minutes 04/28/2026 at 7:30PM 1. Roll Call The meeting was called to order by Laura Shifrin at 7:30 PM on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, with Laura Shifrin present in person, Valerie Goodrich present in person and Sarah Logan present in person. 2. Pledge of Allegiance The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Laura Shifrin with thanks to veterans, active-duty service members, emergency responders, town staff, elected and appointed officials, and their families for their contributions to the community. 3. Announce the Meeting Being Recorded and Uploaded to YouTube; Confirm if Other Parties Are Recording Laura Shifrin announced that the meeting was being recorded and would be uploaded to YouTube. No other parties indicated they were recording. 4. Review Meeting Minutes: 4/21/2026 Motion to table the minutes from April 21, 2026 to the May 5, 2026 meeting was made by Valerie Goodrich and seconded by Sarah Logan. Roll Call Vote: Sarah Logan – Yes; Valerie Goodrich – Yes; Laura Shifrin – Yes. 5. New Business 5.1. Reorganization of the Select Board ● Clerk: Valerie Goodrich nominated Sarah Logan as Clerk. Sarah Logan accepted, seconded by Laura Shifrin. Roll Call Vote: Sarah Logan – Yes; Valerie Goodrich – Yes; Laura Shi …
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Tue Apr 28, 2026

Revised

Townsend Board of Health proposes new solid waste and recycling hauler regulations

The Townsend Board of Health is proposing a draft regulation establishing rules for private haulers collecting solid waste and recyclables in town. The regulation would require permits, annual renewals, bundled recycling service for residential customers, and compliance with Massachusetts waste ban laws. A public hearing or vote on adoption is not yet scheduled; the effective date is listed as TBD.

solid-wasterecyclingpermitspublic-healthhaulersregulations
✓ Decided: Townsend board approves septic permits, discusses cannabis zoning

The Board of Health approved three septic-related permits: a new septic system at Lot 5B North End Rd., and local upgrade approvals for 17 Brookline St. and 41 Sauna Row Rd. They also discussed a citizen petition to reduce buffer zones for medical cannabis facilities and scheduled a public hearing on new hauler regulations for May 11, 2026.

Agenda (official) · cached copy · Minutes
📄 From the agenda
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RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR REMOVAL, TRANSPORT, AND DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE OR RECYCLABLES IN THE TOWN OF TOWNSEND DRAFT April 2026 Purpose The goal of these regulations is to protect public health and the environment and ensure that all Private Haulers collecting Solid Waste and Recyclables adhere to the Massachusetts Waste Ban regulations and uniformly comply with permit requirements established by the Town of Townsend. This should ensure that: The environmental benefits of recycling are maximized. There is joint enforcement of the Waste Ban requirements by the municipality and all Private Haulers operating within the municipality. There are fair and equitable rules for all Private Haulers operating in the municipality. All residents and businesses have convenient (parallel) access to recycling collection services. All Private Haulers licensed to operate in a municipality are following state regulations (310 CMR 19.017). There is greater consistency across municipalities to promote clear operating guidelines for Private Haulers; and, Municipalities and Private Haulers work together to support the goals of the Solid Waste Master Plan and the Global Warming Solutions Act. Authority These regulations establish minimum requirements for the systematic collection of Solid Waste and Recyclables in order to promote waste reduction, comply with State-mandated Waste Bans (310 CMR 19.017), and further the goals of the Town of Townsend. The Board of Health of the Town of Townsend adopt …
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📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ra) J IEA Proc af Healt A inulit 4|96) 202 ECEIVE MAY 14 2026 TOWN OF TOWNSEND TOWN CLERK Minutes: e Open meeting at 6:05pm. e 1.1 - Roll Call - Present — Charles “Paul” Serene (CS), Dr. Christian Roman-Ramirez (CRR) e¢ 1.2 —Lot 5B North End Rd. (Map 38, Parcel 14) — New Construction septic permit - CS motions to approve. CRR 2". Rollcall vote with unanimous approval. Board signs the permit. e 1.3 — 41 Brookline St. — Additional Local Upgrade Approval (permit previously issued) — Local upgrades requested are a reduction in the offset from the pump chamber to the roadside line from 10’ to 3.5’ and a reduction in the setback from a water supply line to the septic tank/pump chamber from 10’ to 4’. The previously approved local upgrade approval for a reduction in the offset from the septic tank to the roadside line from 10’ to 4’ was eliminated. The local upgrade approvals became necessary during construction when the water line was encountered in a different location than shown on the plan. The driveway and patio are pavers and started to cave during excavation for the tank. In an effort to protect the driveway and patio and install the septic tank/pump chamber in maximum feasible compliance, the installer set the tank as far from the waterline as feasible without affecting the integrity of the patio/driveway. The installer also sleeved the waterline and sewer line. CS motions to approve. CRR 2°°. Rollcall vote with unanimous approval. Rick will draft an approval letter. …
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Tue Apr 28, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Cultural Council unanimously supports saving West Townsend Reading Room

The Townsend Cultural Council approved sending a message to the Finance Committee to support preserving the West Townsend Reading Room, citing its historic significance. The council also reviewed grant payments, discussed member recruitment, and planned a 'Meet the Artist' event for August. Minutes from March 10 were approved.

Minutes
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ECEIVE Townsend Cultural Council MAY 27 2026 April 28 2026 TOWN OF TOWNSEND Library Conference Room TOWN CLERK 5:00 P.M. 1. Attendance: Pam Pingsterhaus, Alice Struthers, Nancy French, Laura Doell 2. Minutes: Reviewed 03/10/26 and approved 3. Old Business a. Grants paid: Kim Craven apologized her husband is ill and she will complete her part soon. We are waiting to hear from two more. Soon we will need to send a reminder that grantees to submit their final reports once their events are complete. The caterpillar lab was full and we couldn't get it to come so Nancy and Linda made a subcommittee and allowed them to substitute a vernal pools activity instead. b. Projects considered: -Create a simple flyer to attract new members - Nancy and Alice will collaborate to create one -Make a calendar so we know when events we are sponsoring are coming up so one of us can attend - Nancy is sending out blasts when things are upcoming -Can we entice more members by broadening the scoop of council to include sharing of artwork, skills, and projects -Sponsor a Mural for around town or Collaborate with the Rail Trail -Gallery Exhibits with an artist demonstration space where artists are approachable. 4. New Business a. Publicity- do we go with an online one like last time or do we go back to paper/asking friends....lets do both. Linda and Laura will work together to generate a new one. “Meet the artist” event- when will this be? Laura reached out and was told the gallery is booked …
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Thu Apr 23, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Conservation restriction committee discusses funding, sledding, and outreach

The committee reviewed progress on a conservation restriction, but no substantive decisions were made. Funding from BDR and MESA feedback are still pending. Members discussed allowing sledding as a permitted use and future presentations to the town.

Minutes
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ECEIVE Conservation Restriction Committee MAY 19 2026 Minutes - April 23, 2026 TOWN OF TOWNSEND oo, TOWN CLERK |. Preliminaries 1.1 Meeting called to order at 7:22 PM. Roll call: Emily Fine (remote), Salina Thomas, Veronica Kell. 1.2 VK announced that the meeting was being recorded and would be uploaded to YouTube. No one else was recording. 1.3 There were no unanticipated topics for the agenda. 1.4 ST moved to approve the minutes of 4.9.2026. VK seconded. There were no corrections to the minutes. Minutes were approved unanimously by roll call vote. EF will convert minutes to PDF format. Il. Business 2.1 CR: Review of revised map; MESA comments Committee has not received feedback from MESA yet. It is hoped that feedback will come by mid-May. EF brought up the issue of allowing sledding on the snow-covered slopes in the winter. That could be listed as an allowed use. There is no revised map yet. The revised map is on hold until the BDR funding is sorted out. 2.2 Review of funding sources and budget BDR funding hasn’t been done yet. After May 5 Kieran will have time to work on it. Committee updated chart listing funding that has been secured and funding still needed. 2.3 Discuss presentations MP presented to Conservation Commission VK, ST and EF presented to Planning Board and Board of Water Commissioners No presentation has been made to Recreation Commission as that board has not met due to lack of quorum. Discussed idea of presenting a report at town meeting or holding an …
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Wed Apr 22, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Conservation Commission approves two Negative 3 determinations for RDA projects

The Townsend Conservation Commission approved two Requests for Determination of Applicability (RDA) with Negative 3 determinations: one for loaming and grading at 11 Squannacook Terrace and another for sidewalk repairs at 50-70 Brookline St. The commission also continued a hearing for a Notice of Intent at 0 Brookline Rd and discussed a potential wetland violation in Townsend Harbor, requesting an amended Order of Conditions for 80 Main St with reduced fees for the Townsend Historical Society.

Minutes
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ECEIVE JUL 05 2026 Office of the VATE DV? 4 ; r . TOWN OF TOWNSEND CONSERVATION COMMISSION TOWN CLERK Town of Townsend 272 Main Street Townsend, Massachusetts 01469 978-597-1700, ext. 1733 conservationéétownsendma, pov Chair: James Gates (2027) — Vice-Chair: Kevin Smith (2026) Clerk: James Deroian (2028) Patricia Jemiolo (2028) Mike Potsaid (2026) Sandra Lord(2027) Vacant (2) Conservation Agent: Colby Streeter Meeting of the Townsend Conservation Commission MEETING MINUTES Wednesday April 22° @ 7:00 pm THIS IS AN OPEN MEETING AND ALL ARE INVITED TO ATTEND SELECTMEN’S CHAMBERS, 272 MAIN STREET, TOWNSEND, MA Or via remote ZOOM for convenience Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technical problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required to by law. Members of the public with interest in a specific agenda item should make plans for in-person attendance. TCAM Inc. is inviting you to the scheduled Zoom meeting at: usO2web.zoom.us/j Meeting ID: 899 0026 3003 Passcode: 918328 One tap mobile +19292056099,,89900263003H,,,,*918328# US (New York) +13017158592,,899002630034,,,,*918328# US (Washington DC) Join instructions https://usO2web.z00m.us/meetings/89900263003/invitations?signature=mjV- hSDgagyNYx4YTbirv28fndOR1qY7dQ4y8O0SWFVs 1.0 Preliminaries - Votes may be taken: 1.1-Call the meeting to order and roll call 7: …
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Tue Apr 21, 2026

Joint Meeting with Audit and Finance and NVTDSC Appointing Committees

✓ Decided: Select Board reappoints Sheldon Chapman to NVTHS School Committee

The Select Board, sitting as the Nashoba Valley Technical District School Committee appointing committee, unanimously reappointed Sheldon Chapman to a three-year term. The board also approved several other items including a per diem van driver, a representative to the Affordable Housing Trust, an Adobe Acrobat Pro subscription, and endorsed a partnership with the Townsend Trails Association. An audit review with the town auditor identified four findings, including a cash reconciliation variance and a short-term debt payment made without proper warrant authorization.

Minutes
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
OFFICE OF THE SELECT BOARD 272 Main Street Townsend Massachusetts 01469 Laura Shifrin, Chair Veronica Kell, Vice Chair Valerie Goodrich, Clerk Kieran Meehan, Interim Town Administrator Sabrina Moore, Administrative Assistant 1 Select Board Meeting Minutes 04/21/2026 at 4:00PM 1. Roll Call Laura Shifrin called the meeting to order at 4 :00 PM on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Roll call was conducted with the following members present: Laura Shifrin (Chair) – Present, Veronica Kell (Vice-Chair) – Present, Valerie Goodrich (Clerk) – Present. 2. Pledge of Allegiance Laura Shifrin led the Pledge of Allegiance. She thanked all veterans, service members, emergency response personnel, staff, and elected officials for their service to the town and their families. 3. Announce the Meeting Being Recorded and Uploaded to YouTube; Confirm if Other Parties Are Recording Laura Shifrin announced that the meeting was being recorded and would be uploaded to YouTube. No other parties indicated they were recording. 4. Review Meeting Minutes: 4/7/2026 Valerie Goodrich moved to accept the meeting minutes of April 7, 2026. Veronica Kell seconded the motion. Veronica Kell provided several corrections: OPEB study contract amount should be $4,750, not $47,500, for the social media policy vote, the minutes incorrectly showed her abstaining and Valerie Goodrich voting yes, when it was the reverse, the motorcycle donation came from Harbor Auto Body, not Harbor Freight. Valerie Goo …
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Tue Apr 21, 2026

Joint Meeting with Select Board and Audit Committee

✓ Decided: Audit report presented with no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies

The joint meeting of the Finance Committee, Audit Committee, and Select Board received the annual audit presentation from Town Auditor Roselli & Clark for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The audit found no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational.

Minutes
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
TOWNSEND FINANCE COMMITTEE JOINT MEETING WITH THE AUDIT COMMITTEE AND SELECT BOARD MINUTES OF APRIL 21, 2026 Chair, Don Hayes; Vice Chair, Jerilyn Bozikas; Clerk, Carol Hoffses Members: Maryjane Churchville, Kathy Spofford, Sam Grant, Dave Walker Don Hayes called the joint meeting to order at 6:06 pm. In attendance were Don Hayes (DH), Maryjane Churchville, (MC), Carol Hoffses (CH), Kathy Spofford (KS), and Jerilyn Bozikas (JB). Town Auditor Roselli & Clark presented their findings for the year ended June 30, 2025 to the joint Finance/Audit Committees and the Select Board. There were no Material Weaknesses or Significant Deficiencies noted during this audit. Next meeting 28 April Election @ Town Hall, 27 April Town Meeting, 5 May North Middlesex High School @ 7 pm ; EGEIVE MAY 18 2026 TOWN OF TOWNSEND TOWN CLERK The Town of Townsend does not discriminate based on disability and is committed to hosting accessible meetings. To request a reasonable accommodation to attend this meeting, please contact the Town’s ADA Coordinator Robert Garside at (978) 597-1709.
Thu Apr 16, 2026

Meeting

✓ Decided: Finance Committee approves $49.5K budget with $3,500 shift for snow/ice wages

The Townsend Finance Committee reviewed and accepted the Omnibus budget as presented, with a $3,500 adjustment moving funds from snow and ice personnel to overtime wages. The committee also discussed the recap sheet, including $120,000 for the Assessor's office, $50,000 for union contract negotiations, and $35,000 for special elections, and recommended opting out of local mail-in ballots to save postage costs.

Minutes
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
TOWNSEND FINANCE COMMITTEE §3= 0Wwnvg : Town, OWNS MEETING MINUTES OF APRIL 16, 2026 WN CLERK ND Chair, Don Hayes; Vice Chair, Jerilyn Bozikas; Clerk, Carol Hoffses Members: Maryjane Churchville, Kathy Spofford, Sam Grant, Dave Walker Don Hayes called the meeting to order at 6:06 pm. In attendance were Don Hayes (DH), Maryjane Churchville, (MC), Carol Hoffses (CH), Sam Grant (SG), Kathy Spofford (KS), and Jerilyn Bozikas (JB). Reviewed the Recap sheet and Omnibus budget with the Town Administrator, Kieran Meehan. On the Recap sheet, the $120,000 was requested by the Assessor's office. An additional $50,000 for added to the town council budget for union contract negotiations. $35,000 was added for special elections. $5000 for the town’s 350" anniversary fund warrant article was not submitted. Discussed opt out of future mailing of ballots for local elections to save postage costs. Question on what is considered New Growth; it is additions to homes and new builds; not the sale of homes in town. On the Omnibus, under Board of Selectmen: the Human Resources Manager duties will be absorbed by the Town Manager. $4000 for the BOS Prof Services is for a consultant for the Town Administrator as needed. $5000 for the BOS Town Reports — Professional Services is for the Annual Town Report. $0 for BOS Prof Services — Land Transfer; the funds are included in the legal fees for the sale of town properties. Under Accounting; $0 for Accounting Salary as this position has been outsourc …
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Showing the 30 most recent meetings of 116 on record. See the yearly meeting archives below for the full history.

🌐 County-level context (Middlesex County)
County-level context — from BLS, IRS, FEMA, HUD, Census. These figures cover the whole county this city sits in, not just the city itself.
Traffic fatalities1 (2023)
Business establishments44,624 (963,417 employees · 2023)
Fair Market Rent (2BR)$2,711/mo (54 assisted households · 2025)
Adults with low literacy12.8% (low numeracy 19% · 2017)

Sources: BLS LAUS, IRS SOI, FEMA, NHTSA FARS, Census CBP, HUD, NCES PIAAC

City profile

Everything below is drawn from this city’s own public record and primary-source government data. AI-written summaries are a finding aid, not a citable quote.

Outcomes — economic mobility

source: Opportunity Atlas (Harvard) · research use

For kids who grew up here in low-income households, their adult household-income rank (0–1). The average hides a gap by race:

White kids
0.503
All kids
0.480
Black kids
0.428

Research-only layer, shown here for context — not included in the CC BY 4.0 bulk download.

Where it’s happening

geocoded land-use decisions
🗺 Interactive map
Every rezoning, development approval, and permit — explore the geocoded records in the research explorer.

Meeting archives

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