Townsend public meetings in 2025

Meeting

The Selectboard unanimously appointed Kieran Meehan as Interim Town Administrator effective 01/03/2026 through 07/10/2026, contingent on completing employment requirements. The board also approved his employment agreement pending legal review and a training stipend of $245/day (not to exceed $1,250) for his transition period. All votes were 3-0.

• Appointed Kieran Meehan as Interim Town Administrator (3-0)
• Approved employment agreement with Kieran Meehan pending legal review (3-0)
• Approved $245/day training stipend for Kieran Meehan, not to exceed $1,250 (3-0)
• Authorized Vice-Chair to sign three employee action forms for Meehan (3-0)

Revised

The committee discussed the ClearGov software presentation and found it expensive, recommending the town explore other vendors. No decisions were made on the budget or other items; the meeting was largely informational.

• Adjourned at 6:50 pm by unanimous vote

Meeting

The Selectboard approved a 10-year Comcast cable contract with senior discount and HD channel upgrades, and waived the 90-day notice requirement for Town Administrator Nelson Mui's resignation effective Jan 2, 2026. Several appointments were postponed for clarification, and a special town meeting was set for Feb 25, 2026.

• Approved 10-year Comcast contract with $1.49/subscriber/month capital funding, senior discount, and HD upgrade side letters (unanimous)
• Waived 90-day notice requirement for Town Administrator Nelson Mui's resignation, effective Jan 2, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Class II license transfer for Harbor Auto Body at 98 Main St to Patrick Murphy (unanimous)
• Approved MOU for Treasurer/Collector Melissa Dunant to forgo FY26 stipend (unanimous)
• Approved letter to Police Chief James Sartell regarding contract renewal (unanimous)
• Appointed Travis Massalski as Recycling Attendant I effective Dec 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Ronald Murray as temporary seasonal emergency worker to Highway Dept effective Dec 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Set special town meeting for Feb 25, 2026 at 7 PM at North Middlesex Regional High School (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Council on Aging Board reviewed and unanimously approved the minutes from the November 17, 2025 meeting. They discussed updates to the newsletter submission deadline, a successful Friends Basket Raffle, and the use of donations to cover extra wages. The board also reviewed an updated snow policy and noted that the FY'27 budget was submitted with increased wages due to COLA and step increases.

• Approved minutes of November 17, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed newsletter submission deadline change to the 17th of each month
• Noted Friends Basket Raffle profit of $1,856 after expenses
• Noted donations paid extra wages for staff
• Reviewed updated snow policy aligning with Northern Middlesex school closures
• Noted FY'27 budget submitted with wage increases for COLA and steps
• Adjourned meeting at 3:15 pm (unanimous)

Revised

The Planning Board voted 4-0 to endorse an ANR plan for 16 South Street, creating one lot and one parcel for the Townsend Historical Society and Deluxe Corporation. The board also discussed the draft interim report for the Townsend Economic Development Strategy and an update on the Rt. 119 Corridor Analysis, but took no further action on those items. A request for a Certificate of Completion for the Harbor Trace PFAS Water Treatment Plant was acknowledged but no action was taken pending a final site inspection.

• Endorsed ANR plan for 16 South Street to create one lot and one parcel (4-0)
• Approved draft minutes of 12-08-25 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:01 PM (5-0)

Revised

The Townsend Water Department received automated notice that UCMR 5 sampling results for lithium at the Harbor Trace Treatment Plant finished water are below the EPA’s minimum reporting level of 9 µg/L. The data are available to view in the EPA’s SDWARS 5 system; public notification is required within 12 months.

• UCMR 5 lithium result <9 µg/L at Harbor Trace Treatment Plant finished water, collected 10/7/2025
• EPA minimum reporting level for lithium is 9 µg/L under UCMR 5
• Public notification required within 12 months per EPA Public Notification Rule

The Townsend Water Board heard a rate study from Tighe & Bond projecting a 5% residential rate increase for FY27, with smaller increases in following years. The board approved minutes, monthly reports, and warrants unanimously. No final rate vote was taken; that is scheduled for January 12, 2026.

• Approved meeting minutes of November 17, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved monthly abatements, adjustments, reports, and warrants out of session (unanimous)
• Tabled update on management class (no vote taken)
• Scheduled joint meeting with Board of Selectmen for January 6, 2026, for rate study presentation

Revised

The Townsend Conservation Commission voted to issue Orders of Conditions for two projects: a new garage at 16 Meadow Rd and a retaining wall repair at 35 Fitchburg Rd, both with special conditions. The commission also continued a Certificate of Compliance for the Rail Trail and accepted additional grant funds for a land survey.

• Approved Order of Conditions for 16 Meadow Rd garage (4-0, 1 abstention) with special conditions for silt fence and building footprint staking
• Closed hearing for 16 Meadow Rd DEP# 308-0724 (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 35 Fitchburg Rd retaining wall repair (5-0) with special condition to follow construction plan
• Closed hearing for 35 Fitchburg Rd DEP# 308-0726 (5-0)
• Continued Rail Trail Certificate of Compliance hearing to next meeting (5-0)
• Accepted $2,450 grant from Nashua River Wild and Scenic Stewardship Council for Basbanes Conservation Area survey
• Approved Dillis and Roy estimate for Lunenburg Rd Conservation Area work (5-0)
• Tabled discussion on appointing a member to Community Preservation Commission to Jan. 14, 2026 (5-0)

Rescheduled From 12-2-25

The council approved a list of FY26 grant awards, giving the Townsend Band the full $1,350 requested and reducing library program grants to $250 each. The vote was unanimous. Members also discussed notification timing and paperwork procedures.

• Approved FY26 grant awards list including $1,350 for Townsend Band (unanimous)
• Reduced library program grants to $250 each to fund Band increase
• Approved minutes from October 28, 2025

Meeting

The Selectboard accepted the resignation of Town Administrator Nelson Mui, effective January 2, 2026, and formed an ad hoc screening committee to begin the search for a replacement. The board also adopted a Sustainable Purchasing Policy, approved a letter supporting local aid, and signed a contract amendment for the Town Administrator to forgo a raise due to budget shortfalls. Several other items were moved to the December 18 meeting.

• Accepted resignation of Town Administrator Nelson Mui effective Jan. 2, 2026 (3-0)
• Formed ad hoc Town Administrator Screening Committee to be appointed in January (3-0)
• Adopted Sustainable Purchasing Policy replacing Recycled Procurement Policy (3-0)
• Approved and signed letter of support for local aid to state legislators (3-0)
• Signed contract amendment for Town Administrator to forgo contractual raise (3-0)
• Approved minutes of Dec. 2, 2025 meeting (3-0)
• Authorized review and signing of payroll and bills payable warrants out of session (3-0)
• Moved health care insurance proposal, Fire Chief MOU, and several other items to Dec. 18 meeting

Revised

The board voted 4-1 to move a proposed zoning bylaw amendment to legal review for a future Town Meeting. The amendment would expand the definition of hotel/motel in the Outlying Commercial District to allow dwelling units under 700 sq ft with kitchens for long-term rental use, but would prohibit new buildings under the revised definition. The board also approved an ADU site plan at 48 West Elm St. and discussed stormwater bylaw updates required by the EPA.

• Approved site plan for detached ADU at 48 West Elm St. (unanimous roll call)
• Voted 4-1 to advance proposed zoning amendment for OCD long-term rentals to legal review and Town Meeting
• Approved minutes of 11-17-25 meeting (unanimous roll call)
• Approved ANR endorsement for 198 North End Road (unanimous roll call)
• Decided not to vote on stormwater bylaw updates, noting it is a state requirement

Corrected

The joint meeting received an update on the curbside recycling and trash program, with the Board of Health answering five questions from the Select Board. Concerns were raised that the public may not know the $125 sticker fee covers only ten months through June 30, 2026. The Board of Health will review data and set FY27 rates as part of the enterprise budgeting process. The meeting was adjourned at 6:41 pm by unanimous vote.

• Adjourned meeting at 6:41 pm (unanimous)

Revised

The Board of Health approved a septic design for new construction at 1A Dudley Road (2-0) and approved hiring Travis Massalski as a Recycling Attendant (2-0). In a joint meeting with the Select Board and Finance Committee, the Board reported the trash sticker program is running a surplus, with tonnage down 50-60% monthly, and will not seek tax levy funds for FY27. Two agenda items were deleted: 249-251 Main St. upgrade and 48 West Elm St. flow increase.

• Approved septic design for 1A Dudley Rd new construction (2-0)
• Approved hiring Travis Massalski as Recycling Attendant I (2-0)
• Deleted 249-251 Main St. upgrade item
• Deleted 48 West Elm St. flow increase item
• Approved invoices as submitted

Meeting

The Townsend, MA board will follow standard procedures to convene an executive session at this meeting. No substantive decisions are listed on the public agenda; the closed portion may cover personnel discipline, contract negotiations, property purchases, or security strategies under state law.

The Townsend Volunteer Board Coordination Committee met on December 5, 2025, and approved revisions to minutes from three prior meetings. The committee also approved scripts for executive session motions to be forwarded to the Select Board. Several items were tabled, including minutes from November 6 and 25, and a public hearing template.

• Approved revision of October 7, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved revision of October 21, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved revision of October 30, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Tabled November 6, 2025 meeting minutes to next meeting (3-0)
• Tabled November 25, 2025 meeting minutes to next meeting (3-0)
• Approved executive session scripts as amended, to be forwarded to Select Board (3-0)
• Tabled public hearing template and Robert's Rules basics draft (3-0)

Meeting

The Conservation Restriction Committee approved the minutes of its November 20 meeting and a report to the selectboard, both unanimously. Members discussed potential grants for due diligence and stewardship costs, including the Marion Stoddart Greenways Fund and DCR Conservation Assistance Grant. No final decisions were made on grant applications or the conservation restriction holder.

• Approved minutes of November 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved report to selectboard with typo corrections (unanimous)

Meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals continued a public hearing for a special permit to convert nine motel units at 159 Brookline Street into long-term residential rentals. The board determined the proposed use is not permitted under current zoning and discussed a potential bylaw amendment. The hearing was continued to June 30, 2026, and the board voted to recommend a zoning amendment to the Planning Board.

• Continued public hearing for 159 Brookline Street special permit to June 30, 2026 (5-0)
• Voted to recommend a zoning bylaw amendment to the Planning Board regarding long-term rentals in the Outlying Commercial District (5-0)
• Approved minutes of October 1, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of October 29, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of November 19, 2025 (3-0-2)
• Appointed Darlene Sodano as full voting member
• Appointed David Chenelle as full voting member upon arrival

Meeting

The Townsend Finance Committee met on December 3, 2025, and discussed the ClearGov budgeting software, recommending pricing other options due to cost concerns. The committee also noted the town administrator's resignation effective January 2, 2026, and discussed the need to verify budget message sheets and whether their recommendations were adopted. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was primarily discussion and planning.

• Adjourned at 6:50 pm (unanimous)

Meeting

The Selectboard voted unanimously to accept a residential shift factor of 1 for the FY2026 local tax levy, meaning no shift of tax burden onto commercial properties. The board also approved a 3-year municipal energy aggregation contract with NextEra Energy, appointed Jessica Demeo as administrative assistant to the police chief, and approved an alcoholic beverage licensing policy. The Emergency Assistance Funds program was halted indefinitely due to cost concerns.

• Approved tax classification shift factor of 1 for FY2026 (3-0)
• Approved 3-year municipal energy aggregation contract with NextEra Energy (3-0)
• Appointed Jessica Demeo as Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Police (3-0)
• Appointed Lance McNally as Planning Board representative to Community Preservation Committee (3-0)
• Approved alcoholic beverage licensing policy (3-0)
• Approved budget memo to department heads with modifications (3-0)
• Halted Emergency Assistance Funds program indefinitely (3-0)
• Approved VBCC recommendations for volunteer handbook additions (3-0)

Revised

The committee voted unanimously to accept a new Public Hearing Guidelines draft and an updated agenda/minute template, both to be forwarded to the Select Board. Several agenda items were tabled or removed, and the committee discussed recruitment strategies and training resources.

• Approved Public Hearing Guidelines draft and moved to Select Board (3-0)
• Approved draft agenda/minute template and moved to Select Board (3-0)
• Tabled items 5C, 6B, and 6C
• Removed item 6F from agenda

Meeting

The Selectboard unanimously approved the Use of Town Counsel Policy, contingent on review and signature. They also discussed a baseline deficit projection of approximately $270,000 for FY2026, with expected increases, and reviewed several other operational updates. No substantive decisions were made on the deficit or other items; most were discussions or reports.

• Approved Use of Town Counsel Policy (2-0, chair not included in vote)
• Approved meeting minutes from November 19, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved payroll and bills payable warrants out of session (3-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss litigation strategy (3-0)

Meeting

The Conservation Restriction (CR) committee reported that the NCLT Land Committee voted to proceed with the CR, which will exclude the soccer field area. Members were assigned to research specific grants and contact state agencies. The goal is to complete a draft CR submission by late winter.

• NCLT Land Committee voted to proceed with the Conservation Restriction, excluding the soccer field area (unanimous)
• Grant research assignments: Mike Potsaid – Freedom's Way Partnership Grant; Salina Thomas – DCR Conservation Assistance Grant; Emily Fine – NHESP letter; Mike Potsaid – MA Historic Commission letter
• Minutes from November 6, 2025 approved unanimously
• Meeting adjourned at 8:32 PM (unanimous)

Full Meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals continued a public hearing for a special permit to convert nine motel units into long-term rentals at 159 Brookline Street because only three members were present, short of the required four. The hearing was rescheduled to December 3, 2025, at 6:35 PM with the applicant's agreement. No substantive decisions were made on the application. The board also discussed a compliance issue at 3 Wheeler Road and expects a permit modification application.

• Continued public hearing for 159 Brookline Street special permit to December 3, 2025 (3-0)
• Deferred approval of October 1 and October 29, 2025 minutes to next meeting
• Appointed Darlene Sodano and David Chenelle as full voting members for this meeting (3-0)
• Discussed 3 Wheeler Road earth excavation permit compliance; modification application expected

Joint Meeting with Finance Committee

The Selectboard appointed three new Fire-EMS personnel, ratified a police detail pay side letter, and voted to add a 50-year lease request for TAYSA to the next special town meeting. The board also heard a financial outlook projecting a $272,000 deficit for FY2027 and discussed updating the town's purchasing policy.

• Appointed Kim Greenough to Community Preservation Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Dawn Priest to Commission on Disability (2-0-1 abstention)
• Appointed Jonathan Kinney as per-diem Firefighter-Paramedic (unanimous)
• Appointed Jason Borneman as per-diem Firefighter-EMT-B (unanimous)
• Appointed Cathal Wells as fulltime Firefighter-EMT-B (unanimous)
• Voted to add 50-year TAYSA lease request to next special town meeting (unanimous)
• Ratified side letter with Police Union for detail pay rate (unanimous)
• Postponed remaining agenda items 5.3-5.9 and 6.1-6.3 to December 2, 2025 (unanimous)

Joint Meeting with Select Board

The Finance Committee and Select Board held a joint meeting to review a ClearGov budgeting software demo and a five-year financial outlook. The outlook projects growing deficits starting at $273K in FY27. No decisions were made on the software or the budget outlook; the meeting was procedural only.

• Adjourned at 6:53 pm (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Council on Aging board approved minutes from the October 8 meeting unanimously. They received updates on the MCOA conference, budget status (28% spent), a formula grant of $18,888 for staff wages, and a new telehealth service. The meeting adjourned at 4:01 pm.

• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:01 pm (unanimous)

Original

The Townsend Conservation Commission approved a timber sale agreement with Proctor Hill Forestry and Logging LLC to remove red pine trees infested with red pine scale at Meetinghouse Park. Proceeds will be placed into the Ole Meetinghouse Park Revolving Fund. The commission also continued a hearing on a proposed garage at 16 Meadow Rd to December 10, 2025, and approved meeting minutes from October 8, 2025, after an initial vote was rescinded.

• Approved timber sale agreement for Meetinghouse Park with Proctor Hill Forestry and Logging LLC (all yes)
• Continued hearing on 16 Meadow Rd NOI DEP# 308-0724 to December 10, 2025 (all yes)
• Approved meeting minutes of October 8, 2025, after rescinding initial vote (3 yes, 3 abstain)

Meeting

The Townsend Board of Water Commissioners is considering a 15% water rate increase for fiscal year 2027, recommended by engineer Tighe & Bond to recover ~$310K in annual principal payments for PFAS treatment project debt and a ~$445K annual transfer to the General Fund. The board also discussed a resident's inquiry about hydrant placement and pipe flushing in Timberlee Park, and defended a prior agenda addition addressing community panic over SRF funding as an emergency topic allowed under Open Meeting Law.

• Proposed 15% water rate increase for FY27, with projected annual residential bill of $577
• ~$310K annual principal payment needed for ~$8.9M PFAS treatment project debt
• ~$445K annual transfer to General Fund is an expense driving rate increase
• ~10% of billed revenue (~$200K/year) not collected on time, contributing to cash shortfall
• Resident inquiry about missing hydrants at ends of Timberlee Park water lines; board confirms 4 roads lack end-of-line hydrants

The Board of Water Commissioners voted unanimously to accept a written response to an Open Meeting Law complaint and submit it to the complainant and the Division of Open Government. Tighe & Bond presented a rate study recommending a 15% rate increase for the next fiscal year; the board asked them to rework the numbers and return with a new presentation. The board also approved the October 20, 2025 meeting minutes and reviewed abatements, adjustments, end-of-month reports, and warrants out of session.

• Approved written response to Open Meeting Law complaint (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes of October 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Reviewed and approved abatements, adjustments, end-of-month reports, and warrants out of session (unanimous)
• Tighe & Bond presented rate study recommending 15% rate increase; board requested revised presentation for next meeting

Meeting

The Townsend Selectboard met on November 17, 2025, but took no substantive public votes or decisions. The only action was a unanimous vote to enter executive session under state law to discuss nonunion personnel and contract negotiations with the Town Administrator. No new, old, or work session business was addressed.

• Voted unanimously to enter executive session for nonunion personnel negotiations (3-0)

Revised

The Planning Board unanimously endorsed an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan to create two new lots at 198 North End Road, both meeting minimum frontage and area requirements for the Residential B district. The board also voted to have the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) develop an economic development implementation plan by December 31, 2025, based on prior survey results and a June public forum. Lance McNally was appointed as the board's representative to the Community Preservation Committee. The board approved a stormwater management permit modification for 108 Fitchburg Road, allowing use of the existing driveway with crushed stone and ongoing erosion monitoring.

• Endorsed ANR plan for 198 North End Road to create 2 lots (unanimous)
• Voted to have MRPC develop an economic development implementation plan by Dec. 31, 2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Lance McNally as Planning Board representative to Community Preservation Committee (5-0)
• Approved stormwater management permit modification for 108 Fitchburg Road with crushed stone and monitoring (5-0)
• Voted to have Planning Board Chair work with MassDOT on Rt. 119 Corridor Analysis (5-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Affordable Housing Trust voted unanimously to reject the only response to a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a town-owned lot, as it did not meet minimum criteria. The Trust will wait until winter/spring to seek new bidders. An executed timber harvesting contract was received, with start date and neighbor notices to be determined. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Rejected sole RFP response for town lot sale (unanimous roll call vote)
• Deferred next steps on lot sale until winter/spring 2026
• Received executed timber harvesting contract; start date and abutter notice pending

Meeting

The Townsend Finance Committee reviewed the WASTEZERO statement and approved a $35,730 transfer from purple bag receipts into the town account. They also approved payment for the MMA Annual Meeting invoice and deferred a first-quarter budget variance analysis until earlier questions are resolved. A quote for printing the MMA Finance Committee Handbook was deemed too costly, so the committee will instead print a copy through town resources.

• Approved $35,730 transfer from purple bag receipts to town account (unanimous)
• Approved Invoice #139350 for MMA Annual Meeting (unanimous)
• Deferred first-quarter budget variance analysis until prior questions resolved (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Conservation Commission approved an Order of Conditions for a building addition and garage at 4 Capricorn Lane, within 200 feet of a riverfront area. A hearing for a retaining wall repair at 35 Fitchburg Road was continued to December 10, 2025. The commission also approved an address change for 0 Adams Road to 6 Adams Road and noted a clerical error requiring a new meeting for 16 Meadow Road.

• Approved Order of Conditions for 4 Capricorn Ln building addition/garage and driveway relocation (5-0)
• Continued hearing for 35 Fitchburg Rd retaining wall repair to December 10, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved address change for 0 Adams Rd to 6 Adams Rd (5-0)

Meeting

The Board of Health approved septic system upgrades at 98 Wallace Hill Rd. and 20 Blood Rd., both for failed systems under property sale agreements. The board also voted to waive the annual $50 food permit fee for non-profit organizations and signed a curbside trash and recycling contract with G.W. Shaw & Son for fiscal years 2026-2028.

• Approved septic upgrade at 98 Wallace Hill Rd. with groundwater offset reduction from 4ft to 2ft (2-0)
• Approved septic upgrade at 20 Blood Rd. in full compliance (2-0)
• Approved waiver of $50 annual food permit fee for non-profits (2-0)
• Signed G.W. Shaw & Son curbside trash/recycling contract for FY26-28 (2-0)

Revised

The Volunteer Board Coordination Committee approved an updated Volunteer Response Form to remove Conservation Restriction and Open Space Recreation committees from the reverse side, forwarding it to the Select Board. Minutes from October 7 were approved. Several agenda items were tabled, including review of October 21 and 30 minutes, vote scripts, and training documents. The next meeting is scheduled for November 25.

• Approved October 7, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Tabled items 4B, 4C, 4E, 5D, and 5E (3-0)
• Approved updated Volunteer Response Form and forwarded to Select Board (3-0)
• Adjourned at 5:42 PM (3-0)

Meeting

The Montachusett Regional Planning Commission voted to engage Grassi Advisors for the FY25 audit at a fee of $30,000, replacing the retiring former auditor. The commission also approved the October 2025 cash schedule and the October 8, 2025 meeting minutes. A guest speaker presented on new ADU laws, and staff reported no immediate adverse effects from the federal government shutdown.

• Approved engagement of Grassi Advisors for FY25 audit at $30,000 (unanimous)
• Approved October 2025 cash schedule, balance $591,689.71 (unanimous)
• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (8-0-1, Bohart abstain)

Meeting

The committee reviewed the October 9 site walk, which went well, and is awaiting feedback from North County Land Trust (NCLT) on whether they will hold the conservation restriction. Funding sources were discussed, including potential grants from DFW, Marion Stoddart, and Freedom's Way, with cost estimates of $19,000-$23,000. The committee also noted that new CR applications will not be reviewed until after January 1, and discussed the property's Article 97 land status and a possible habitat maintenance plan. No final decisions were made; the next meeting is November 20.

• Approved minutes from August 28, 2025, unanimously by roll call vote
• Discussed site walk and NCLT's pending decision on holding the CR
• Identified potential funding sources: DFW grant, Marion Stoddart grant, Freedom's Way grant
• Noted cost estimates: $19,000-$23,000 for legal defense, stewardship, survey, and baseline documentation
• Discussed Article 97 land status and habitat maintenance plan for the property
• Scheduled next meeting for November 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM

Meeting

The Selectboard unanimously approved responses to six Open Meeting Law complaints, appointed members to the Recycling Committee and Zoning Board of Appeals, and set meeting dates and the 2026 holiday schedule. The board also approved a police social work services agreement with COIN and a municipal waste contract contingent on further review.

• Approved responses to six Open Meeting Law complaints (unanimous)
• Appointed Irene Congdon and Sally Koivu to the Recycling Committee (unanimous)
• Reappointed Linda Durette to the Cultural Council (unanimous)
• Appointed Dave Chenelle as associate member to Zoning Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Approved Selectboard meeting dates Jan–June 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 town holiday schedule (unanimous)
• Approved intermunicipal police social work agreement with COIN (unanimous)
• Approved name change of RTJ Concessions Inc. to Elm Street Creamery Inc. (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Planning Board voted 4-0-1 to conditionally approve the preliminary subdivision plan for Mason Brook Acres, a five-lot OSPD at 0 Mason Road, subject to resolution of deficiencies identified in a peer review letter and comments from other town boards. Member Brett King recused himself due to a familial relationship with an applicant. The board also approved minutes from prior meetings and noted the Attorney General's approval of updated floodplain zoning bylaws.

• Conditionally approved preliminary subdivision plan for Mason Brook Acres (5-lot OSPD) at 0 Mason Road (4-0-1, King recused)
• Authorized chair to sign and file the decision with the Town Clerk by November 6, 2025 (4-0-1)
• Reserved judgment on all waiver requests until the initial hearing, requiring formal waiver petitions with justification (4-0-1)
• Approved minutes of October 6 and October 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Deleted agenda item 2.4 (Locke Brook Solar Array annual landscape monitoring) to allow more time for document completion
• Noted Attorney General approval of new Floodplain District bylaw (Section 145-45) and updated FEMA floodplain maps

Meeting

This agenda item is a discussion between the Town Clerk and HR Manager about volunteer onboarding packets, specifically whether EEO markings are required and which volunteers undergo CORI checks. The HR Manager explains that EEO markings protect the town due to legal ambiguities, and that CORI checks are run only for certain project/event volunteers, not for board or committee members.

• Discussion of whether EEO markings are required on volunteer packets due to legal protections under the Massachusetts Civil Rights Act
• Clarification that neither state nor federal law requires CORI checks for board or committee members
• CORI checks are currently run for project/event volunteers (e.g., haunted trail, ski club) and SWOP volunteers, but not for voting poll volunteers
• Town pays a flat fee for unlimited iCORI platform access; individual CORI costs are unknown

Meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to recommend David Chenelle for appointment as an associate member to the Selectboard. The board also deferred approval of the October 1, 2025 meeting minutes pending additional documentation.

• Recommended David Chenelle for appointment as associate ZBA member to Selectboard (4-0)
• Deferred approval of October 1, 2025 meeting minutes to next meeting

Meeting

The Townsend Selectboard held a meeting on October 28, 2025, that was largely procedural. The only substantive action was a unanimous vote to enter executive session to discuss nonunion personnel negotiations and litigation strategy in the case RFS Corp. v. Town of Townsend. No other business was conducted, and the board adjourned from open session without returning.

• Approved payroll and bills payable warrants out of session (3-0)
• Entered executive session for nonunion personnel negotiations and litigation strategy (3-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Finance Committee reviewed the first-quarter budget variance analysis, noting several departments have already exceeded or are near their annual budgets, including Fire/EMS (168% expended), Board of Health travel (219%), and Landfill Energy (141%). The committee also discussed standardizing budget request forms with the Select Board and Town Administrator, and approved a motion to request an estimate for printing 10 copies of the 2025 MMA Handbook. No substantive decisions were made on budget adjustments or policy changes.

• Approved minutes of September 23, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to request estimate for printing 10 copies of 2025 MMA Handbook (unanimous)
• Agreed to continue Finance Committee restructuring as is, no action taken
• Discussed standardizing budget request forms; awaiting clarification from Town Administrator/Select Board on work session
• Reviewed first-quarter budget variances; noted concerns with multiple line items exceeding budget

Revised

The Conservation Commission voted to accept the opportunity to hold conservation restrictions on two North County Land Trust parcels as part of a federal Forest Legacy Program grant, with a deadline of June 2027. The commission also appointed Sandra Lord to fill a vacant seat through June 2026, approved a Certificate of Compliance for 65 Adams Road, and continued a hearing for 16 Meadow Road to November 12, 2025, due to the applicant's absence.

• Approved holding conservation restrictions on NCLT parcels 10A and 10D for Forest Legacy Program (3-0-1, JD abstain)
• Appointed Sandra Lord to Conservation Commission for term ending June 30, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 65 Adams Road (unanimous)
• Continued 16 Meadow Road NOI hearing to November 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 23 and August 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 10, 2025 (3-0-1, JD abstain)

Meeting

The Selectboard unanimously approved two Memoranda of Agreement with unions to implement approximately $250,000 in budget reductions following the failed July override vote. Cuts include not filling a vacant Assistant Fire Chief position, not hiring a new police officer/cadet, reducing Council on Aging hours, and the Town Administrator voluntarily forgoing a $5,200 pay raise. The board also held a public hearing on Comcast's cable license renewal and approved various licenses and a letter of support for opioid recovery grants.

• Approved two MOAs with AFSCME and CSCME unions for FY26 budget reductions (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Entertainment License renewals contingent on documentation and payment (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Class I, II, III license renewals contingent on documentation and payment (unanimous)
• Approved Christmas tree sales license for Lions Club at Town Common Nov 21-Dec 21 (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Mosaic Opioid Recovery Partnership grant program (unanimous)
• Approved October 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Held public hearing on Comcast cable license renewal; no vote taken
• Discussed DPW restructuring and Fire Department leadership; no decisions made

Meeting

This is a compilation of email correspondence among Townsend staff and board members gathering training resources for various town boards and committees. No decisions are being made; the document serves as an information-gathering exercise for volunteer training.

• Housing Trust training resources from Massachusetts Housing Partnership and Mass Housing Authority
• Conservation Commission training materials including DEP Wetland Protection Act regulations
• Select Board training via MMA seminars and webinars
• Board of Assessors requirement to complete Course 101
• Commission on Disability training resources from Massachusetts Office on Disability and ADA centers

Meeting

The Townsend Cultural Council voted unanimously to keep Linda Durette on the committee and approved the annual financial report for FY 25/26. The council rejected eight grant applications for reasons including being out of town or lacking a local venue, and tabled decisions on three 'maybe' applications pending further review.

• Approved keeping Linda Durette in position on committee (unanimous)
• Approved annual financial report FY 25/26 (unanimous)
• Rejected 8 grant applications: Fitchburg Military Band, Grow Native Mass., Johnny Appleseed Trail Association, Brendan Smith, Sound Bites Events, Jon Waterman, Winchendon Music, Dennis Wise
• Tabled decisions on 3 applications: MUSIC Dance.edu, Pepperell Community Arts, Kelley Roberge

Meeting

The agenda lists committee chairs and staff roles for a local board meeting. No substantive decisions or votes are scheduled; the document is a procedural roster with no action items.

The Townsend Water Commissioners approved the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. The board discussed a recently installed chain-link fence at Witch's Brook to protect a Zone 1 wellhead, with residents opposing the fence. The board acknowledged the need for better community communication on future fence work.

• Approved September 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed but took no vote on Witch's Brook fence; board committed to better community communication
• Approved monthly abatements, adjustments, end-of-month reports, and bill payable warrants out of session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:15pm (unanimous)

Revised

The Townsend Board of Health approved three septic system permits (14 Reagan Rd., 108 Fitchburg Rd., and Adams Rd.), appointed Irene Congdon and Susan Gerkan to the Recycling Committee, raised sharps disposal fees to $40/unit, and discussed updating hauler regulations to address waste ban compliance. All votes were 2-0.

• Approved septic upgrade at 14 Reagan Rd. (2-0)
• Approved septic permit for new construction at 108 Fitchburg Rd. (2-0)
• Approved septic permit for new construction at Adams Rd. (2-0)
• Appointed Irene Congdon and Susan Gerkan to Recycling Committee for 2025-2028 (2-0)
• Raised sharps container disposal fee to $40/unit (2-0)
• Approved minutes of September meeting (2-0)
• Discussed updating hauler regulations; no final vote taken
• Curbside trash contract update: bond requirement remains unresolved

Meeting

The Planning Board approved a Scenic Roads Act application from Stephen and Karin Marshall to remove a 20-foot section of stone wall at 35 Burgess Road for a new driveway entrance. The approval requires before-and-after photographs. The board also extended a stormwater management permit for 66 Bayberry Hill Road by two years, with the permit holder abstaining.

• Approved scenic road application for 20-foot stone wall removal at 35 Burgess Road (4-0)
• Authorized Planning Board Chair to sign the decision (4-0)
• Approved two-year extension of stormwater management permit SM2023-03 for 66 Bayberry Hill Road (unanimous, permit holder abstained)
• Approved draft minutes from September 15 and September 22, 2025 (4-0)

Meeting

The Selectboard unanimously approved the sale of a $2,100,165 general obligation bond anticipation note to Hilltop Securities, with a premium of $24,459.79. The board also approved a one-day alcohol license for Tavern 13's Halloween event at Birchhouse Botanicals, and adopted a new volunteer response form from the Volunteer Board Committee. Comments were submitted to the Planning Board regarding a stone wall removal at 35 Burgess Road.

• Approved $2,100,165 bond anticipation note sale to Hilltop Securities (unanimous)
• Approved one-day alcohol license for Tavern 13 Halloween event at 422 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved new volunteer response form from VBCC (unanimous)
• Submitted comment to Planning Board on 35 Burgess Road stone wall removal
• Moved agenda item 4.2 (Town Counsel Policy) to October 21, 2025 meeting
• Approved meeting minutes of 08/05/2025, 08/07/2025, 09/25/2025, 09/30/2025 with corrections (unanimous)

Revised

The Volunteer Board Coordination Committee will discuss incorporating the 'Riggins Rules' — a guide for public hearing conduct — into new member packets. The committee will also review meeting minutes, updated agenda templates, and continue discussion of stakeholder feedback.

• Review of 'Riggins Rules' for potential inclusion in new member packets
• Discussion of updated agenda and minutes standard templates
• Continued discussion of stakeholder feedback from requests for information
• Review of meeting minutes from October 3, 2025
• Discussion regarding training for committee members

Revised

The Planning Board voted 3-1 to accept the Locke Brook solar array property as-is, despite the original site plan requiring a landscaped vegetative screen along West Meadow Road. The board noted that all originally approved plants had been removed, but decided to accept the current condition due to lack of complaints and the permit holder's compliance with reporting requirements. The board also accepted the annual stormwater management inspection report for 108 West Meadow Road and reviewed a preliminary subdivision application for 0 Mason Road.

• Accepted Locke Brook solar array property as-is without required vegetative screen (3-1)
• Accepted annual stormwater management inspection report for 108 West Meadow Road (unanimous)
• Deferred approval of minutes for 9-15-25 and 9-22-25 to next meeting
• Removed Master Plan review from agenda

Meeting

The committee approved minutes from its September 4 and September 19 meetings, both by 3-0 roll call votes. Members discussed updates to board and committee forms, including adding an approval signature line and updating terminology to 'Select Board.' They also discussed standardizing agenda and minutes templates and gathering more stakeholder feedback on training needs.

• Approved September 4, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved September 19, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Discussed updates to board and committee forms (no vote)
• Discussed standardizing agenda and minutes templates (no vote)

Revised

The Zoning Board of Appeals accepted the withdrawal of Addison Nute's application to modify two special permits for 159 Brookline Road, after legal counsel advised that a new special permit application was needed. The Board voted unanimously to waive the filing fee for the forthcoming new application. The applicant intends to reapply for a special permit to allow the cottages to be used for permanent or long-term residency.

• Accepted withdrawal of application to modify 2009 and 2010 special permits for 159 Brookline Road (4-0)
• Waived filing fee for forthcoming new special permit application for 159 Brookline Road (4-0)
• Approved minutes of August 6, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of September 17, 2025 (4-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Energy Committee approved minutes from its August 27, 2025 and September 9, 2025 meetings. Members discussed obtaining PDF user manuals for LED/controls at schools, next steps for the Climate Action Plan (CAP), and a web page update. No votes on substantive policy or spending items were recorded.

• Approved minutes of 8/27/2025 meeting (2-0)
• Approved minutes of 9/9/2025 CAP1 meeting (2-0)
• Discussed request for PDF manuals for LED/controls at Hawthorn Brook and Spaulding Schools
• Discussed CAP progress, including goal of 100 survey responses and QR poster distribution
• Discussed web page update and plan for proposal at next meeting
• Discussed sending most recent minutes to Town Clerk
• Discussed confusion over Kieran's role and GCGP grant administration by MRPC
• Scheduled next meeting for 4pm on November 19, 2025

Meeting

The Selectboard approved a three-year lease with TAYSA for the Squannacook Meadows soccer fields, effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2028, at $1 per year. The board also accepted a change in town counsel's fee structure from a hybrid fixed-monthly-plus-hourly model to a straight hourly rate of $200 per hour for all services, citing below-market effective rates. Additionally, the board appointed Cindy King to the Commission on Disability, released executive session minutes from April 29, 2025, and approved access to historical meeting minutes in response to an Open Meeting Law request.

• Approved TAYSA lease for Squannacook Meadows soccer fields, Oct 2025–Sep 2028 (3-0)
• Accepted town counsel fee increase to $200/hour hourly billing for all services (no formal vote recorded; discussed and agreed)
• Appointed Cindy King to Commission on Disability effective 09/30/2025 until 06/30/2028 (3-0)
• Released April 29, 2025 Executive Session minutes per AG determination (3-0)
• Approved access to historical minutes for OML request from Mary Jane Churchville (3-0)
• Approved multiple sets of meeting minutes from Feb–Sep 2025 (various votes, all carried)
• Moved discussion of Selectboard goals to end of agenda; not reached due to time
• Tabled discussion of Fire Department organizational structure to another meeting

Joint Meeting with Planning Board

The Selectboard and Planning Board jointly appointed Brett King as a full member of the Planning Board until the April 2026 town election. The board tabled a request to increase plow contractor rates for the upcoming winter, citing financial concerns, and will revisit it on September 30. Several committee appointments were approved, and a lease renewal for TAYSA soccer fields was tabled pending a corrected map.

• Appointed Brett King to Planning Board until 04/27/2026 (unanimous joint vote)
• Tabled highway plow contractor rate increase until 09/30/2025 (consensus)
• Approved engineering contract for GPI on Complete Streets Grant (Brookline Street sidewalk) (unanimous)
• Appointed Karen Clement to Kids Kountry Playground Committee until 06/30/2028 (unanimous)
• Appointed Kirsten Biron to Kids Kountry Playground Committee until 06/30/2027 (unanimous)
• Appointed Lorraine Farmer to Meeting Hall Gallery Committee until 06/30/2026 (unanimous)
• Appointed MaryJane Churchville to Town Properties Committee until 06/30/2026 (unanimous)
• Approved name change of Bouillon Bistro LLC to Susie Poulin dba Bouillon Bistro Franchise LLC (unanimous)

Special Town Meeting

Town Meeting voted unanimously to create a Multi-Family Overlay District (MFOD) on Fitchburg Road, allowing as-of-right multifamily and two-family housing. The zoning amendment also updated definitions and site plan review procedures. A separate article transferred care of 0 Dudley Road to the Conservation Commission, also passed unanimously.

• Approved zoning amendment creating Multi-Family Overlay District on Fitchburg Road (unanimous)
• Transferred care, custody and control of 0 Dudley Road to Conservation Commission (unanimous)

Revised

The Board of Health approved a variance request for a property at 248 South Row Road and a new construction septic permit for 29 Greenville Road. A discussion on office signage regarding conduct was continued.

• Approved new construction septic permit for 29 Greenville Rd. (unanimous)
• Approved variance request for 248 South Row Rd. to allow 5.8% natural light with supplemental lighting (unanimous)
• Approved all invoices (unanimous)
• Continued discussion on signage for Board of Health office to next meeting

Meeting

The Finance Committee appointed Kathy Spofford as its representative to Capital Planning by unanimous vote. The committee discussed concerns for the upcoming DOR/DLS visit, including negative salary lines, cash flow timeliness, and compliance with MGL Chapter 44, Section 53i. No substantive budget decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and preparatory.

• Appointed Kathy Spofford as Finance Committee representative to Capital Planning (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:30 pm (unanimous)

Revised

The Planning Board voted unanimously not to recommend a citizen petition that would have prohibited apartment/multifamily buildings on two parcels (Blood Road and West Elm Street). The board cited concerns about spot zoning and stated that any proposed development should go through the standard permitting process. The board also finalized its reports for Special Town Meeting, including recommendations on the MBTA multifamily overlay district and the citizen petition.

• Voted not to recommend citizen petition to amend zoning bylaw to prohibit apartments on Map 10, Parcels 52 and 70 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on the citizen petition at 8:15 PM (unanimous)
• Removed Reasons 2, 3, and 5 from draft report on citizen petition; added new reason supporting established permitting process
• Edited Reason 1 for MFOD zoning amendments to remove phrase 'sound planning' and conclude with 'state mandates and community needs'
• Revised Reason 3 for MFOD to remove specific dollar amount referencing a grant
• Edited Reason 4 for MFOD to strike the word 'structured'
• Removed Reason 5 entirely from MFOD recommendations
• Acknowledged receipt of preliminary subdivision approval application for 0 Mason Road

Meeting

The committee reviewed and discussed stakeholder feedback from various boards and staff, focusing on volunteer recruitment, outreach, onboarding, and communication issues. No decisions were made; review of updated forms, OML posting process, and prior meeting minutes were deferred to the next meeting. The next meeting was scheduled for September 26, 2025.

• Scheduled next meeting for September 26, 2025, at 6:30 pm (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 6:44 pm (unanimous)

Meeting

The Selectboard voted unanimously (3-0) to adjourn the public meeting and enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with five town unions (Clerical, Supervisors, Highway/Water, Police, Fire). No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Approved entering executive session for union negotiations (3-0)

Meeting

The meeting was held with members present and was recorded. The committee discussed updates on the beach project, including a timeframe and needed coordination with the DPW schedule. No votes were taken on substantive matters. The minutes from the June meeting were approved by a vote of all in favor.

• Approved June meeting minutes (all in favor)

Meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals continued a public hearing on Addison Nute's request to modify two special permits for nine residential units at 159 Brookline Road. The board voted 4-0 to continue the hearing to October 1, 2025, to seek a review from Town Counsel. No final decision was made on the permit modification.

• Continued public hearing on 159 Brookline Road special permit modification to October 1, 2025 (4-0)
• Appointed Darlene Sodano as full member for the meeting (4-0)
• Elevated Colby Streeter to Clerk position (4-0)
• Approved minutes from August 6, 2025 (no vote tally recorded)

Meeting

The Townsend Council on Aging approved closing the Senior Center at noon on December 5, 2025, to prepare for the Holiday Fair, and voted to close the center on December 24 at noon and all day December 25-26 for Christmas. The LRTA free grant was extended until June 2026, and a new bread policy limits two loaves per person. No substantive decisions beyond these were made.

• Approved closing Senior Center at noon on Dec 5, 2025, for Holiday Fair setup (unanimous)
• Approved Christmas closures: Dec 24 at noon, Dec 25 all day, Dec 26 all day (unanimous)
• Noted LRTA free grant extended until June 2026
• Adopted new bread policy: two loaves per person

Meeting

The Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend proposed zoning amendments to comply with the MBTA Communities Act (MGL Ch. 40A Sec. 3A) for approval at the September 25 Special Town Meeting. The board also unanimously recommended Brett King to fill a vacant Planning Board seat. The public hearing on the zoning changes was closed after extensive discussion.

• Recommended Brett King for appointment to the Planning Board (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on MBTA Communities Act zoning amendments (unanimous)
• Moved proposed zoning amendments to Special Town Meeting vote (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes of August 25, 2025 (unanimous)

Second

The Board of Selectmen hosts a workshop led by Mead, Talerman & Costa, LLC to review the town’s obligations under the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law, including notice rules, remote participation, public comment, and executive-session procedures.

Original

The Townsend Public Library Board of Trustees is reviewing and approving a revised Policy Manual dated September 2025. The manual covers board governance, library operations, collections, programming, and internet use. This is a procedural adoption of the full policy document.

• Revised Policy Manual approved for September 2025
• Board structure: 5 elected trustees with 3-year overlapping terms
• Library Director hired by board as executive and administrative officer
• Meetings subject to Massachusetts Open Meeting Law
• Policies cover circulation, collections, gifts, loans, internet use, and programming

Meeting

The Commission continued a hearing for a septic system replacement at 71 Fitchburg Rd to allow the applicant to submit a narrative to DEP. It also voted to hire a forester to write a Forest Cutting Plan for a pine scale infestation at Meetinghouse Park. Several other items were discussed but no final decisions were made on them.

• Continued hearing for septic replacement at 71 Fitchburg Rd (unanimous)
• Approved hiring forester to write Forest Cutting Plan for Meetinghouse Park pine infestation (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes from July 9, 2025 (unanimous)
• Granted Water Quality Certification for 88 Meadow Rd (DEP file #308-0708)

Meeting

The Townsend Energy Committee met on September 9, 2025, for a climate action planning session. No votes were taken. The meeting was focused on introducing the climate action process and gathering input from volunteers on reducing emissions in sectors like energy, buildings, and transportation.

• No votes taken; meeting was informational and planning-focused

Meeting

The Townsend Board of Health approved a septic permit for 53 West Meadow Road (new construction) and a local variance and septic plan for 71 Fitchburg Road (upgrade), both unanimously. The board also acknowledged a DEP determination that no public water source is required for 129 Lunenburg Road (Restoration Orchard). No update was available on the curbside trash and recycling contract or the MOU for the sticker program.

• Approved septic permit for 53 West Meadow Road (3-0)
• Approved local variance and septic plan for 71 Fitchburg Road (3-0)
• Acknowledged DEP determination that public water source not required for 129 Lunenburg Road
• No update on curbside trash and recycling contract
• No update on MOU for sticker program

Revised

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection confirms the Town of Townsend’s PFAS Water Treatment Improvements project is administratively closed after the Project Completion Certificate was submitted. The Division of Municipal Services processed the final payment and no further reimbursement requests can be made under the state revolving fund loans.

• PFAS Water Treatment Improvements project closed with final payment processed
• State Revolving Fund loans DWP-22-26 and DWPEC-24-24 finalized
• Project Completion Certificate submitted by Town of Townsend Superintendent David Vigeant

The Townsend Water Department meeting was largely procedural, with no substantive decisions made beyond approving the final payment for the SRF-PFAS Treatment Plant Project. The board also approved minutes, reports, and warrants, and discussed minor operational updates.

• Approved minutes of August 11, 2025, as amended (unanimous)
• Approved last payment request for SRF-PFAS Treatment Plant Project
• Approved monthly reports and warrants out of session (unanimous)

Meeting

The Volunteer Board Coordination Committee will meet to discuss and propose changes to its current processes, including board and committee forms and the Open Meeting Law posting process. The meeting is procedural and does not include formal decisions.

The committee elected Laura Shifrin as Chair, James Deroian as Vice Chair, and Harrison Mayotte as Clerk, all unanimously. They discussed merging volunteer response and reappointment forms, and improving meeting posting standards. No formal decisions were made beyond the officer elections.

Revised

The Selectboard unanimously approved a contract with Capital Strategic Solutions for on-call public relations services with no retainer or minimum usage. The board also signed the warrant for the September 25 Special Town Meeting, which includes articles on transferring Dudley Meadows to the Conservation Commission, adopting the MBTA Communities Act, and other zoning changes. Additionally, the board approved surplus of fire, highway, and cemetery equipment pending estimated values, wrote off $158,457.31 in uncollectible ambulance receipts, and voted to close the West Townsend Reading Room for winter from December 1 to April 1.

• Approved on-call PR services contract with Capital Strategic Solutions (unanimous)
• Signed Special Town Meeting warrant for September 25, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved surplus of Fire Department generator and ambulance, pending estimated value (unanimous)
• Approved surplus of Highway Department vehicles, pending estimated value (unanimous)
• Approved surplus of Cemetery and Parks Department equipment, pending estimated value (unanimous)
• Approved write-off of $158,457.31 in uncollectible ambulance receipts (unanimous)
• Approved winter closure of West Townsend Reading Room Dec 1, 2025 to Apr 1, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved first amendment to Town Administrator contract reverting to FY25 salary rate (unanimous)

Meeting

The committee reviewed progress on a Conservation Restriction (CR) needed for TAYSA's field expansion, including maps and legal requirements. An encroachment issue was reported: one residence has an outbuilding on town property, with a November 1 deadline to remove it. The committee also discussed grant opportunities and set the next meeting for October 2.

• Approved minutes of August 14 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed encroachment at SM; letter sent to residence with November 1 deadline to remove outbuilding
• Reviewed CR template and maps; need to determine if parcel is Article 97 land
• Agreed to check for management plan with Conservation Commission
• Set next meeting for October 2, 2025

Revised

The Townsend Energy Committee learned that the town received a $122,000 Green Communities Competitive Grant to replace lighting at Hawthorn Brook Middle School with LEDs and study HVAC systems at Memorial Hall. The committee also approved minutes from the June 25 meeting and discussed next steps for the Climate Action Plan and a website update. No substantive decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved minutes of 6/25/2025 meeting (2-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Finance Committee re-elected Don Hayes as Chair, Maryjane Churchville as Vice Chair, and Carol Hoffses as Clerk, all by unanimous votes. Kathy Spofford was introduced as the newest member. The committee also appointed Maryjane Churchville as its representative to the Properties Committee and approved $201 in annual MMA membership dues.

• Re-elected Don Hayes as Chair (unanimous)
• Re-elected Maryjane Churchville as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Re-elected Carol Hoffses as Clerk (unanimous)
• Appointed Maryjane Churchville as Finance Committee representative to Properties Committee (unanimous)
• Approved $201 payment for MMA membership dues (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Planning Board voted 4-0 to approve zoning bylaw amendments for MBTA Communities compliance, incorporating state and town counsel feedback. The board also discussed restoring parking requirements for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) with compliant language, and proposed adding private outdoor space requirements for multifamily housing as part of a wellness initiative.

• Approved zoning amendments for MBTA Communities law compliance (4-0)
• Approved minutes of August 11, 2025 meeting as amended (4-0)
• Agreed to propose amendment restoring ADU parking requirement at future Town Meeting with compliant language
• Agreed to change 'single family dwelling' to 'principal dwelling' in ADU bylaw to comply with AG review
• Discussed adding 80 sq ft private outdoor space requirement for dwelling units in site plan review

Meeting

The Townsend Council on Aging board reviewed minutes, reappointed two members, and discussed the failure of a tax override, which will require finding alternative ways to pay town employee wages with no raises. The board also noted upcoming conferences and a Friends of Seniors leadership change.

• Approved June 18, 2025 minutes with correction (unanimous)
• Reappointed Marylou Vest and Carol Swenor to COA board (sworn in)
• Noted tax override did not pass; no raises for town employees
• Noted Darlene Lessard stepping down as Friends of Seniors president; election set for September 24, 2025

Meeting

The Townsend Cultural Council approved the creation of a Facebook page to increase communication, reviewed survey results, and discussed the new direct pay process. The council also considered sponsoring the Town Band and continued investigating a harbor electric box mural project.

• Approved creation of a Townsend Cultural Council Facebook page (motion by Linda, second by Pam, no discussion, vote taken and approved)
• Approved minutes from previous meeting
• Agreed to keep the community survey open
• Direct pay process is ready; Linda will submit the new cycle report by August 28, 2025

Meeting

The Select Board unanimously approved freezing step and COLA increases for non-union employees, except those in revolving funds, public safety, and facilities maintenance, to help close a $258,000 budget gap after a failed override vote. The board also approved posting for a full-time town accountant, a $39,323.50 fire suppression project for town hall, and a $68,900 painting/repair contract with Arsenault and Sons. Additionally, they discussed plans for 'Super Troopers 3' filming at Cherry Hill Ice Cream on September 8, 2025, and the resignation of the Assistant Fire Chief.

• Approved no step/COLA increases for non-union employees, with exceptions for revolving fund, public safety, and facilities maintenance positions (unanimous)
• Approved posting for a full-time town accountant (unanimous)
• Approved $39,323.50 fire suppression project from ImpactFire for town hall (unanimous)
• Approved $68,900 painting/repair contract from Arsenault and Sons (unanimous)
• Approved responses to three Open Meeting Law complaints (unanimous)
• Appointed Laura Shifrin, Harrison Mayotte, and James Deroian to the Volunteer Board Coordination Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Vicki Tidman as Board of Assessors representative to Townsend Town Properties Committee (unanimous)
• Approved May 13 and July 15, 2025 meeting minutes pending video review (unanimous)

Rescheduled Meeting

The committee reviewed a draft conservation restriction, noting concerns about pesticide use on soccer fields after a non-organic, non-biodegradable pesticide was applied, potentially violating the current lease. Discussion of grant funding was tabled. The committee also approved minutes from July 10, 2025, and set next meetings for August 21 and 28.

• Approved minutes of July 10, 2025 (3-0, one abstention)
• Deleted agenda item 2.2 (discussion with potential CR holders) due to no attendance
• Added discussion of soccer field pesticide application to agenda item 2.1
• Tabled discussion of grant funding possibilities until next meeting
• Set next meeting dates: August 21 and 28, 2025, both at 7:00 PM
• Adjourned meeting at 8:25 PM (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Public Library’s monthly report covers circulation, programs, and building updates. Trustees and staff discussed summer reading wrap-up, event planning, and ongoing facility issues. The Friends of the Library also announced fall fundraisers and community events.

• Summer Reading program ends August 20, funded by TPL Endowment and Friends of the Library
• Touch a Truck event scheduled for September 20 at the library
• Haunted Trail event on October 11 (rain date October 12)
• Holiday Fair on December 6
• Friends of the Library membership drive and book sale starting mid-September

The Townsend Public Library Board of Trustees approved a revised policy manual that includes an updated Library of Things section. The board also discussed the impact of the failed FY26 override on the library and a letter about inter-departmental communication.

• Approved revised policy manual with updated Library of Things (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 2, 2025 (unanimous)

Revised

The Townsend Conservation Commission continued a hearing for a septic system replacement at 71 Fitchburg Rd. pending revised site plans. The commission reviewed estimates for property line surveys under the 2025 Land Grant but deferred a decision to seek one more estimate. They also discussed a red pine scale infestation in Old Meetinghouse Park and drafted infraction letters for violations at 80 Main St.

• Continued hearing for 71 Fitchburg Rd. septic replacement pending revised site plans (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 25, 2025 (unanimous)
• Deferred decision on land grant survey estimates to obtain one more estimate
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Revised

The board discussed and prepared zoning bylaw amendments to comply with the MBTA Communities Law, including removing a density restriction and adjusting site plan review. It agreed to separate single-family homes from the main multi-family overlay district, requiring a two-thirds vote at the September 25 Special Town Meeting. The board also approved minutes from prior meetings and set a public hearing for September 15.

• Approved meeting minutes for July 14 and July 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Agreed to separate single-family homes provision from the MBTA Communities multi-family overlay district bylaw, presenting it as a distinct article at Town Meeting
• Set public hearing on MBTA Communities zoning amendments for September 15, 2025
• Noted no comment on mandatory referral for 159 Brookline Road
• Received update on 12 Ball Road cell tower permit extension letter signed by Chair
• Board members will review regulations revisions (sections 175-14, 175-15, 175-16) out of session

Meeting

The Townsend Water Commissioners approved meeting minutes and routine financial reports unanimously. No major decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates about PFAS levels, new service connections for several developments, and plans for future budgeting and security fencing around retention ponds.

• Approved meeting minutes of June 9 and July 28, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved monthly abatements, end-of-month reports, and bill payable warrants (unanimous)

Meeting

The Selectboard voted 2-1 to approve a formal statement thanking Water Superintendent David Vigeant for his work on PFAS treatment, with Clerk Goodrich dissenting based on legal counsel advice. The board also entered executive session to discuss strategy regarding the Water Superintendent's State Ethics Case, then returned to open session to read and vote on the statement. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved statement thanking Water Superintendent David Vigeant for PFAS work (2-1: Kell aye, Goodrich no, Shifrin aye)
• Entered executive session to discuss Water Superintendent's State Ethics Case (unanimous 3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:50 AM (unanimous 3-0)

Revised

The committee reviewed the FY25 BVA, noting the $507,368.91 balance will cover snow/ice deficits, with remaining funds recommended for stabilization or capital projects. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting focused on procedural matters, including addressing a past Open Meeting Law violation and planning for FY26 improvements.

• Adjourned at 7:45 pm (unanimous)

Meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals denied an appeal from the Historic District Commission regarding a trestle at 1 South Street, ruling it lacks jurisdiction because the Building Commissioner has no authority over the Historic District under state law. The Board voted 4-0 to dismiss the petition after hearing from Town Counsel and the Building Commissioner, who acknowledged the error. The decision means the matter must be resolved through the courts if the HDC disagrees with the work.

• Denied Historic District Commission appeal for 1 South Street trestle (4-0)
• Approved minutes of July 2, 2025 meeting (4-0)

Revised

The Selectboard voted unanimously to set a Special Town Meeting for Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 7:00 PM, primarily to vote on the MBTA Communities Act. The warrant will open on August 19, 2025, at 6:00 PM and close on September 2, 2025, at noon. The board also appointed Cindy King to the Commission on Disability and reappointed Marylou Vest to the Council on Aging Board, both unanimously.

• Set Special Town Meeting for Sept. 25, 2025, at 7:00 PM (unanimous)
• Opened warrant for Special Town Meeting from Aug. 19 to Sept. 2, 2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Cindy King to Commission on Disability pending town counsel review (unanimous)
• Reappointed Marylou Vest to Council on Aging Board through June 30, 2027 (unanimous)
• Referred three Open Meeting Law complaints to town counsel (unanimous)
• Signed CBIZ accounting contract pending counsel and CBIZ review (unanimous)
• Directed review of Alcoholic Beverages Policy to update terminology (unanimous)
• Created Volunteer Board Coordination Committee with Town Clerk, Select Board member, and at-large member (unanimous)

Meeting

The Select Board unanimously approved a one-day special license for Townsend Ecumenical Outreach (TEO) to serve alcohol at its Summer Celebration and Fundraiser on September 6, 2025, at the Townsend Town Common, subject to TIPS certification and a police detail. The board also approved a one-day bingo permit for the same event. Additionally, three appointments were made to the Historic District Commission, and a revised Animals in Public Buildings Policy was adopted.

• Approved one-day special alcohol license for TEO fundraiser on Sept 6, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved one-day bingo permit for TEO fundraiser on Sept 6, 2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed James Deroian to Historic District Commission through June 2028 (2-0, 1 abstention)
• Appointed Maria Millikin to Historic District Commission through June 2028 (unanimous)
• Appointed Jennifer Ravellette as alternate to Historic District Commission through June 2028 (unanimous)
• Adopted revised Animals in Public Buildings Policy (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Conservation Commission reviewed Climate Action Plans from other towns to identify strategies for waste reduction, natural lands preservation, and resilience. They also discussed selling smaller town-owned properties while retaining larger ones for conservation. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved minutes of June 11, 2025 meeting (3-0-1, JG abstained)
• Discussed Climate Action Plan opportunities for Townsend
• Discussed selling smaller town-owned properties and retaining larger ones for conservation
• Placed 3 Wheeler Rd property issue on next agenda due to access dispute

Meeting

The Board of Assessors met on July 22, 2025, and conducted routine business. They voted unanimously to keep Carol LeConti as Chair, Julie Byars as Vice-Chair, and Darlene Sodano as Clerk. They also appointed Principal Assessor Vicki Tidman to the Town Properties Committee. No abatement applications were reviewed, and meeting minutes were tabled.

• Reorganized board: Carol LeConti remains Chair, Julie Byars Vice-Chair, Darlene Sodano Clerk (unanimous)
• Appointed Vicki Tidman as Town Properties Committee representative (unanimous)
• Authorized Vice-Chair Byars to sign all necessary paperwork (unanimous)
• Tabled review and signing of previous meeting minutes

Joint Meeting

The Planning Board was not called to order because a quorum was not present. The joint meeting with the Selectboard was held to discuss an update on MBTA Communities Compliance and support for final approval and setting of a Special Fall Town Meeting date for September, but no votes or decisions were taken.

Revised

The Selectboard voted to support the Planning Board's MBTA Communities Act compliance plan and to place the zoning amendment on a special town meeting warrant tentatively set for September 30, 2025. They also appointed Jerrilyn Bozicas to the Board of Water Commissioners and approved a two-month solid waste contract extension with G.W. Shaw. A motion to appoint Jerrilyn Bozicas to the Zoning Board of Appeals failed unanimously due to a perceived conflict of interest.

• Appointed Jerrilyn Bozicas to Board of Water Commissioners (4-0)
• Approved two-month solid waste contract extension with G.W. Shaw pending prevailing wage schedule (3-0)
• Supported MBTA Communities Act zoning process and special town meeting warrant (3-0)
• Reappointed Patricia Jemiolo to Conservation Commission (2-0, one absent)
• Reappointed James Deroian to Conservation Commission (2-0, one absent)
• Reappointed Rachel King to Meeting Hall Gallery Committee (2-0, one absent)
• Appointed Cheryl Aldrich to Meeting Hall Gallery Committee (2-0, one absent)
• Appointment of Jerrilyn Bozicas to Zoning Board of Appeals failed (0-3)

REVISED

The Townsend Planning Board approved seven energy-related goals proposed by the Townsend Energy Committee as amendments to the Master Plan, with a condition to restore a removed paragraph on local power generation. The board also endorsed an ANR plan creating a conforming lot at 28-30 Bailey Road and reviewed a contract with MRPC to recodify zoning bylaws, including removing site plan review special permits. No substantive decisions were made on MBTA Communities Act compliance, which remains under discussion.

• Approved Townsend Energy Committee's proposed changes to Master Plan, with condition to restore removed paragraph on local power generation (3-0)
• Endorsed ANR Plan for 28-30 Bailey Road, creating a conforming lot (3-0)
• Approved minutes from six prior meetings (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:18 PM (3-0)

Meeting

The committee reviewed allowed and prohibited uses for the conservation restriction (CR) using the MESA template, with members suggesting modifications to address potential town well development. They also discussed the CR holder and possible funding sources, including the NRWA's Greenway Program and the Nashua, Squannacook & Nissitissit Rivers Stewardship Council. No final decisions were made; the next meeting will review the CR as written and discuss the CR holder.

• Minutes of June 26 accepted unanimously by roll call vote
• Meeting adjourned at 8:12 PM

Meeting

The Montachusett Regional Planning Commission approved a resolution authorizing out-of-state travel for Senior Planner Tracy Murphy to attend the EPA National Brownfields Conference in Chicago, at a cost not to exceed $2,500. The commission also approved using $140,000 in DLTA funds as matching funds for a three-year, $210,000 EDA Partnership Planning Grant. Both actions passed unanimously with no objections.

• Approved resolution authorizing Tracy Murphy's travel to EPA Brownfields Conference, cost not to exceed $2,500 (unanimous)
• Approved use of $60,000 in DLTA 18 funds and $80,000 in projected DLTA 19 funds as match for EDA Partnership Planning Grant (unanimous)
• Approved June 5, 2025 meeting minutes as presented (5-0-1, Russo abstained)
• Accepted June 2025 cash schedule, subject to audit (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Historic District Commission met on July 10, 2025, and voted unanimously to accept the June 12, 2025 minutes and to delay acceptance of the May and June 2025 minutes. No votes were taken on other agenda items, which included discussion of preparation for a Zoning Board of Appeals hearing on August 6, 2025, volunteer applications, and insurance companies dropping coverage for historic homes. The meeting adjourned at 4:18 PM.

• Accepted June 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Delayed acceptance of May and June 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 4:18 PM (unanimous)

Revised

The Townsend Conservation Commission approved a Request for Determination of Applicability for a solar panel installation at 93 East Haynes Road, with a condition to install erosion control wattles. It also issued an Order of Conditions for a septic system replacement at 15 Proctor Road. Two Certificates of Compliance were granted for completed projects at 2 Capricorn Lane and 106 Haynes Road. The commission discussed a volunteer application and a climate action plan collaboration.

• Approved RDA for solar array at 93 East Haynes Rd with wattle condition (5-0)
• Issued OOC for septic replacement at 15 Proctor Rd, DEP #308-721 (5-0)
• Approved COC for 2 Capricorn Ln, Kevin O'Leary (5-0)
• Approved COC for 106 Haynes Rd, Jose Mercado (5-0)

REVISED

The Townsend Finance Committee approved all 13 municipal transfer requests (MTRs) for FY25, totaling $44,422.11, by unanimous votes. The committee noted that justifications for the transfers were generally weak and will work with department heads in FY26 to improve request forms. No transfers were denied or tabled.

• Approved MTR-001: $20,000 from Human Resources and $961.04 from Vet Benefits Other Services (unanimous)
• Approved MTR-002: $4,500 (unanimous)
• Approved MTR-003: $3,000 (unanimous)
• Approved MTR-004: $316.64 (unanimous)
• Approved MTR-005: $8,700 (unanimous)
• Approved MTR-006: $4,500 (unanimous)
• Approved MTR-007: $600 (unanimous)
• Approved MTR-008: $500 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to recommend Jerrilyn Bozicas as a full member to the Selectboard and to waive a $300 filing fee for the Historic District Commission because it is a town commission.

• Recommended Jerrilyn Bozicas for appointment as full ZBA member (5-0)
• Waived $300 filing fee for Historic District Commission application (5-0)

Meeting

The Townsend library director presented June 2025 statistics showing 9,948 physical items circulated and 1,504 ebook checkouts. The library also hosted 39 events with 916 attendees and is planning summer reading programs through August 20th. Staff noted upcoming computer replacements and Microsoft Office license purchases due to Windows 10 support ending in October.

• Summer Reading 2025 program runs June 11–August 20 with theme 'LEVEL UP AT YOUR LIBRARY'
• Override vote scheduled for July 29, 2025
• Out-of-state library fee increase update discussed
• Computer replacements and new Microsoft Office licenses needed before October 2025
• Friends of the Library Band Concert planned for August 7th

The Townsend Public Library Board of Trustees met on July 2, 2025, and unanimously approved the minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting. The board discussed the FY26 budget and considered adding a cleaner as a line item in the FY27 budget request. They also reviewed the Library Board of Trustees section of the policy manual. No new business was introduced.

• Approved minutes from June 4, 2025 (unanimous)

Revised

The Selectboard approved six of nine municipal reserve transfers, including $20,961 for health insurance and $4,500 for building inspector services, while tabling two others pending further review. A joint meeting with the Board of Health on solid waste and Waste Zero contracts was held, but no vote was taken; both boards agreed to revisit the contracts on July 15. The board also appointed Veronica Kell as MART representative and two election workers.

• Approved $20,961 health insurance transfer (unanimous)
• Approved $4,500 tax collector services transfer (unanimous)
• Approved $3,000 building inspector salary transfer (unanimous)
• Approved $315.64 general property liability transfer (unanimous)
• Approved $8,700 accounting salary transfer (unanimous)
• Approved $4,500 building inspector professional services transfer (unanimous)
• Tabled pay-as-you-throw expenses transfer pending grant confirmation
• Tabled police cruiser transfer pending necessity review

Meeting

The meeting was called to order at 10 PM and focused on a concrete slab and heating installation for a building project. A bid for the slab was discussed, and it was noted that a quote for the work is needed. The meeting adjourned at 4:34 PM.

• Discussed concrete slab specifications (38x35 feet, 6 inches thick)
• Noted that a quote for the slab work is needed
• Discussed heating and equipment installation for the slab

REVISED

The Planning Board approved an ANR plan for 22 Haynes Road, creating two conforming lots, and endorsed a stormwater management permit for 324 Main Street. The board also recommended Carol Hoffses to the Town Properties Committee and discussed a revised agreement with MRPC for site plan review updates. No action was taken on appointing a member to the Community Preservation Committee.

• Approved ANR plan for 22 Haynes Road, creating two conforming lots (unanimous)
• Endorsed stormwater management permit for 324 Main Street
• Recommended Carol Hoffses as Planning Board member on Town Properties Committee (unanimous)

Meeting

The committee discussed allowed and prohibited uses for the conservation restriction area, using the water protection bylaw and MESA template as guides. Members agreed to finalize the list before presenting the CR to the state land use committee. The minutes from May 29 were approved unanimously. No final decisions were made on the conservation restriction or its holder.

• Approved minutes of May 29 (unanimous roll call)
• Agreed to finalize allowed and prohibited uses list before seeking CR holder decision
• Agreed that allowed/prohibited uses list applies only to conservation restriction area, not soccer area

REVISED

The Townsend Conservation Commission voted to accept control of three town-owned parcels (Elm St., off Worcester Rd., and Riverbank Terrace) for conservation purposes. The commission also voted to explore selling the remaining parcels to abutters. Other actions included reappointing two members, continuing a septic system hearing due to a missing DEP file number, and addressing an encroachment issue at 2 Peter J Dr.

• Accepted control of three town properties for conservation: Elm St. (parcel 17-105-0), off Worcester Rd. (17-66-0), and Riverbank Terrace (18-27-0) (all yes)
• Voted to explore selling remaining TPC parcels to abutters (all yes)
• Reappointed Patricia Jemiolo to Conservation Commission (all yes)
• Reappointed James Deroian to Conservation Commission (all yes)
• Appointed Kevin Smith as Conservation Commission representative to Townsend Property Commission (all yes)
• Continued hearing for 15 Proctor Rd. septic system NOI to next meeting due to missing DEP file number (all yes)
• Consensus reached to have fence and chicken coop at 2 Peter J Dr. moved within property line by end of summer
• Approved May 25 meeting minutes with amendment (all yes)

Meeting

The Townsend Energy Committee approved reappointments for members Kathy Thompson and Ron Montgomery, discussed a Climate Action Plan (CAP) meeting in Pepperell, and reviewed issues with LED controls at the Police Department. No substantive decisions were made beyond the reappointments.

• Approved reappointment of Kathy Thompson (term 7/1/2025 to 6/30/2027) (2-0)
• Approved reappointment of Ron Montgomery (term 7/1/2025 to 6/30/2028) (2-0)

Joint Meeting with Finance Committee and Audit Committee

The Selectboard, meeting jointly with the Audit and Finance Committees, accepted the FY24 audit report from Roselli, Clark and Associates. The board also set a special town election for July 29-31 on a $258,827 property tax override to fund wages, salaries, and benefits. Several appointments were made, including Jessica Funaiole as Accounts Manager/Water Technician and Harrison Mayotte as Records Access Officer. The board approved a rodenticide policy banning second-generation anticoagulants on town property.

• Accepted FY24 audit report from Roselli, Clark and Associates (3-0)
• Set special town election for July 29, 30, or 31 on $258,827 override question (3-0)
• Appointed Jessica Funaiole as Accounts Manager/Water Technician effective July 16, 2025 (3-0)
• Appointed Harrison Mayotte as Records Access Officer effective June 24, 2025 to June 30, 2026 (3-0)
• Approved Rodenticide Policy banning SGARs on town-owned properties (3-0)
• Approved Health Administrator's vacation rollover of 50 additional hours to FY26 (3-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for April 8, 2025 with clerical corrections (2-0-1)
• Deleted several appointments from agenda pending bylaw approval or rescheduling

Joint Meeting

The Finance Committee, Select Board, and Audit Committee held a joint meeting to receive the audit results of Townsend's finances. Russell, Clark & Associates presented an overview of their audit findings and recommendations, followed by a question-and-answer period. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural only.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:07 pm (unanimous)

Meeting

The Board of Health approved a septic permit for new construction at 23 North End Road, with a 4-bedroom home and a well. They also approved a two-month extension of the curbside trash and recycling contract with G.W. Shaw, pending a prevailing wage document. The board discussed ongoing residential trash issues and the new curbside program, including a temporary allowance for non-purple bags due to a shortage.

• Appointed Charles 'Paul' Serene as Vice-Chairman (3-0)
• Appointed Todd Arseneault as Clerk (3-0)
• Approved septic permit for 23 North End Road (3-0)
• Approved two-month extension of curbside trash and recycling contract with G.W. Shaw (3-0)
• Voted to cancel/withdraw authority of Board of Health Chairman to represent the board on curbside trash and recycling matters (3-0)

Special Town Meeting

The Special Town Meeting approved $291,600 from Free Cash to cover FY25 snow and ice deficits, and reallocated $53,784.74 from old warrant articles to Memorial Hall renovations after an amendment to redirect funds to police cruiser leases failed. The Annual Town Meeting passed amendments to the zoning bylaw for age-restricted developments and adopted a new Floodplain Overlay District. All votes were recorded as passed by majority or two-thirds as noted.

• Approved $291,600 transfer from Free Cash for FY25 snow and ice deficits (majority vote)
• Approved $53,784.74 reallocation to Memorial Hall renovations (amendment to redirect to police cruiser leases failed; main motion passed by majority)
• Approved $26,329.20 reallocation to Capital Stabilization Account (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to age-restricted development zoning bylaw (two-thirds vote)
• Approved new Floodplain Overlay District zoning bylaw (majority vote)
• Authorized Select Board to appoint all Town Officers (majority vote)

Meeting

The Selectboard discussed the FY26 Omnibus budget and reviewed Special Town Meeting warrant articles. A $200,000 discrepancy between the Selectboard's and Finance Committee's budget proposals was noted, with concerns about transparency and the Finance Committee's cuts. No votes were taken on any item; the meeting was entirely discussion and review.

• No votes taken; all items were review/discuss only
• Town Administrator confirmed FY26 budget figure of $27,592,926
• Veronica Kell expressed intent to amend Article 2 to raise solid waste fee from $125 to $200–$213
• Board agreed to establish goals and set a regular agenda
• Next meeting scheduled for June 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM
• Meeting adjourned at 5:56 PM (3-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Cultural Council met on June 17, 2025, and approved minutes from the prior meeting. Old business included discussions on direct pay (no progress), a community survey draft, and electric box art requirements. New business covered a mural at Adams Dam. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

• Approved minutes from May 20, 2025 meeting

Meeting

The Selectboard denied Jessica Funaiole's request for an exemption as a special municipal employee with a financial interest as a Board of Water Commissioner, with a 2-1 vote. The board approved numerous annual appointments and reappointments to town boards, committees, and police positions, effective July 1, 2025. A joint meeting with the Board of Health unanimously appointed Charles Paul Serene as a full member to the Board of Health. Several appointments were deferred to the June 24 meeting for further confirmation.

• Denied Jessica Funaiole's exemption as special municipal employee with financial interest as Water Commissioner (2-1)
• Appointed Charles Paul Serene to Board of Health effective 06/17/2025 (unanimous joint vote)
• Appointed Anna Bowen as summer intern to Water Department effective 07/07/2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Valerie Goodrich as Selectboard alternate to MJTC/MPO effective 07/01/2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Valerie Goodrich as MRPC alternate effective 07/01/2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Darlene Sodano as associate member to ZBA effective 07/01/2025 (unanimous)
• Reappointed Mary Letourneau as Animal Control Officer effective 07/01/2025 (unanimous)
• Reappointed James P. Sartell as Chief of Police and all full-time officers effective 07/01/2025 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Historic District Commission met on June 12, 2025, but took no votes on any items. They discussed volunteer requirements for the commission and agreed to have all members sign a Zoning Board of Appeals application to request a $300 fee waiver. A conversation was also held about establishing a fee structure for violations, but no action was taken.

• No votes taken on any agenda items
• Agreed to have all members sign Zoning Board of Appeals application for $300 fee waiver request
• Discussed posting qualifying requirements with vacancy posting for commission volunteers
• Discussed establishing fee structure for violations, no action taken

Joint Public Hearing with the Board of Health

The Finance Committee and Board of Health held a joint public hearing on a proposed new curbside trash and recycling service. The committee unanimously approved the projected FY26 Solid Waste and Recycling Enterprise Fund, which includes a $160,000 request from the Stabilization fund and a proposed $125 annual user fee.

• Approved FY26 Solid Waste and Recycling Enterprise Fund (unanimous)
• Proposed $125 annual user fee for FY26
• Requested $160,000 from Stabilization fund to start program
• Continued Pay as You Throw (PAYT) program for FY26

Meeting

The Selectboard unanimously approved two versions of the FY26 municipal budget — one with a $258,828 override and one without — to present at the June 18 Special Town Meeting. The board also set a potential July 29 special election date for the override, contingent on Town Meeting approval. An Open Meeting Law complaint was addressed by releasing the town counsel's response.

• Approved FY26 general government budget $1,677,555 with override, $1,649,936 without (3-0)
• Approved FY26 public safety budget $4,324,440 with override, $4,186,036 without (3-0)
• Approved FY26 education budget $16,765,463 both versions (3-0)
• Approved FY26 highway/streets budget $876,188 with override, $812,793 without (3-0)
• Approved FY26 solid waste budget $19,700 both versions (3-0)
• Approved FY26 human services budget $521,170 with override, $507,284 without (3-0)
• Approved FY26 culture/recreation budget $549,773 with override, $534,249 without (3-0)
• Approved setting July 29 special election date for override, pending June 18 Town Meeting approval (3-0)

REVISED

The Finance Committee voted 5-1 not to recommend the $27.6 million FY26 General Fund budget (ATM Article 11) and also voted 5-1 not to recommend a $258,827 General Fund budget expense increase (STM Article 5). The committee unanimously recommended support for most other warrant articles, including establishing a solid waste enterprise fund, cemetery upkeep, water department funding, and a PEG access media appropriation. The committee also voted unanimously to request a Department of Local Services audit of the town's budget.

• Not recommended $27,591,779 FY26 General Fund budget (5-1)
• Not recommended $258,827 General Fund budget expense increase (5-1)
• Recommended solid waste and recycling enterprise fund (unanimous)
• Recommended $160,000 transfer and $626,351 appropriation for solid waste enterprise fund (unanimous)
• Recommended $15,000 for cemetery upkeep (unanimous)
• Recommended $2,169,359.62 for Water Department FY26 operations (unanimous)
• Recommended $166,490.67 for Townsend Community Access Media (unanimous)
• Requested DLS audit of town budget (unanimous)

REVISED

The Planning Board voted 4-0 to grant a Site Plan Review Special Permit and a Major Stormwater Management Permit to 324 Main St Partners LLC for redeveloping a vacant gas station into a convenience store, office space, and coffee shop with drive-through at 324 Main Street. The board also approved site plan applications for accessory dwelling units at 1 Trophy Ave and 83 Fitchburg Road, and endorsed an ANR for 1 Whitcomb Street.

• Approved Site Plan Review Special Permit for 324 Main St redevelopment (4-0)
• Approved Major Stormwater Management Permit for 324 Main St (4-0)
• Approved site plan for detached ADU at 1 Trophy Ave (4-0)
• Approved site plan for ADU at 83 Fitchburg Road (4-0)
• Waived filing fee and endorsed ANR for 1 Whitcomb Street (4-0)
• Deferred approval of meeting minutes for 04-07-25, 04-14-25, 5-19-25, and 5-13-25 to June 23 meeting

Meeting

The Townsend Water Department meeting will review PFAS settlement proceeds from 3M and Dupont legal settlements and discuss their use for infrastructure repairs and operations. The department will also review uncollected water charges and fees from the previous fiscal year.

• PFAS settlement proceeds from 3M and Dupont legal settlements for water system upgrades
• Infrastructure repair list including Cross St, Main St Treatment Plant, and Harbor Trace Plant
• Uncollected water charges totaling $184,945.18 from June 30, 2024
• Fiscal year 2025 summary of water department accounts receivable
• Backflow service charges totaling $17,755.00

The Townsend Water Commissioners reorganized, electing Jessica Funaiole as Vice-Chair and Todd Melanson as Chair. They unanimously declared the stagnant 6-inch water main on Highland Street a public health concern, requiring its removal from service at Maple and Bow. The board also approved minutes, scheduled the next meeting for July 14, and authorized signing reports and bills out of session.

• Reorganized board: Jessica Funaiole elected Vice-Chair, Todd Melanson elected Chair (unanimous)
• Declared Highland/Maple/Oak 6-inch water main a public health concern, requiring removal from service (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes of May 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for July 14, 2025, at 7:00 PM
• Authorized signing of abatements, end-of-month reports, and bills payable out of session (unanimous)

Revised

The Townsend Energy Committee voted to approve minutes from April 16 and May 20, 2025. They discussed and settled on using 2017 as the primary base year for the Climate Action Plan greenhouse gas inventory, with graphics showing progress from 2010. No volunteers were found for outreach events. The committee also discussed updating the TEC web page and responding to a Planning Board request regarding the Townsend Master Plan.

• Approved minutes of April 16, 2025 (2-0)
• Approved minutes of May 20, 2025 (2-0)
• Settled on 2017 as primary CAP inventory base year with 2010 progress graphics
• No volunteers for outreach events (band concert, games, town meetings)
• Agreed to update TEC web page after Planning Board master plan work
• Adjourned at 4:49pm (3-0)

Joint Meeting with Finance Committee

The Selectboard voted 2-0 to place a Proposition 2½ override article on the Special Town Meeting warrant for $258,827 to fund salary reductions across departments, preserving all current positions if passed. The board also reappointed two members to the American Flag Committee, appointed a new Zoning Board of Appeals member, and approved several administrative actions including assigning a custodian for two properties acquired in lieu of foreclosure. Discussion of a solid waste enterprise fund and a two-month trash contract extension was postponed pending further review.

• Approved $258,827 Proposition 2½ override article for Special Town Meeting warrant (2-0)
• Reappointed Derek Clement and Todd Arsenault to American Flag Committee (2-0)
• Appointed Colby Streeter to Zoning Board of Appeals (2-0)
• Assigned Treasurer/Collector as custodian for 540 Main Street and Whitney Lane (2-0)
• Assigned Town Administrator as signatory for Community Compact Grant Phase II (2-0)
• Changed webmaster position to stipend basis (2-0)
• Approved Special Town Meeting warrant contingent on Town Counsel review (2-0)
• Approved Childscapes playground equipment contract contingent on Town Counsel review (2-0)

Meeting

The Conservation Restriction Committee discussed options for protecting a 23+ acre town-owned parcel, including creating a water protection district bylaw or incorporating protections into a conservation restriction. They also learned that the Water Department cannot hold a conservation restriction, and members will contact other potential holders.

• Approved minutes of April 24, 2025, as corrected (unanimous)
• Discussed creating a water protection district bylaw to protect water supply
• Discussed incorporating water protection stipulations into a conservation restriction
• Salina Thomas will contact Nashua River Watershed Association about holding the CR
• Veronica Kell will contact Anne Gagnon of MA Fish & Game about holding the CR
• Added 'no lighting' and water protection district uses to discussion of allowed/prohibited uses
• Set next meeting for June 26, 2025

Meeting

The Selectboard discussed warrant articles for an upcoming special town meeting, including creating a revolving fund and enterprise fund for the solid waste program, and a Parks and Cemetery article requesting $15,000. The military leave policy article was deferred to a fall town meeting. The board voted unanimously to review and sign the special town meeting articles out of session after town counsel review.

• Voted unanimously to review and sign special town meeting articles out of session after town counsel review (2-0)
• Deferred military leave policy warrant article to fall town meeting
• Discussed but did not vote on solid waste program revolving fund and enterprise fund articles
• Discussed but did not vote on Parks and Cemetery $15,000 warrant article

Revised

The Selectboard held a joint meeting with the Board of Health to discuss a proposed curbside trash and recycling program. The Board of Health presented a three-phase plan starting with a FY2026 pilot, but no formal action was taken. The proposal will need to go to town meeting for approval, particularly regarding the use of $160,000 from stabilization funds.

• No formal action taken on solid waste proposal
• Board of Health portion of joint meeting adjourned unanimously at 9:08 PM
• Joint meeting of Selectboard and Board of Health adjourned unanimously at 9:08 PM
• Selectboard meeting adjourned at 9:15 PM (2-0)

REVISED

The Finance Committee voted unanimously to approve the Board of Health's proposed three-phase curbside trash and recycling program. Phase 1 will begin in FY26 with a $125 flat fee per household, while the Pay As You Throw program continues. The Board of Health will negotiate and collect fees. The committee also unanimously approved nominating Mark Hussey as a committee member for the remainder of the term.

• Approved Mark Hussey as committee member for remainder of term (unanimous)
• Approved BOH motion to implement new curbside trash and recycling program as amended (unanimous)

Revised

The Townsend Select Board approved a common victualler license for the Ice Cream Factory, set to open May 24. The board also approved a $6,995 well replacement contract and an MOU for Green Communities technical assistance. Discussion focused on $100,000 in additional budget cuts needed due to lost ARPA funds, with a hiring freeze considered. A digital equity plan was presented but implementation funding has been canceled.

• Approved common victualler license for Ice Cream Factory - RTJ Concessions Inc (2-0)
• Approved $6,995 Weston & Sampson contract for well replacement at landfill (2-0)
• Approved MOU for Green Communities technical assistance with MRPC (2-0)
• Appointed Jody Ellis as seasonal Reckids Rec Counselor starting 5/23/2025 (2-0)
• Tabled appointment of Selectboard member as MRPC Alternate
• Tabled appointment of town representative to Regional Coordinating Council

Meeting

The Townsend Energy Committee voted to approve recommendations to the Select Board for Green Communities grant opportunities using MRPC services. The recommendations were submitted to the Select Board for their May 20 evening meeting. Some items were declined due to lack of funding for extra employee hours and a shortage of volunteers.

• Approved recommendations to Select Board for GCGP opportunities using MRPC services (2-0)

REVISED

The Planning Board elected Andrew Shepherd as Chair, Robert Therrien as Vice Chair, and Hartley Pleshaw as Clerk in a 4-0 vote. The board tabled the appointment of a representative to the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission and deferred approval of previous meeting minutes. Discussion continued on MBTA Communities Act compliance, with revisions to the draft bylaw expected before the next meeting.

• Elected Andrew Shepherd Chair, Robert Therrien Vice Chair, Hartley Pleshaw Clerk (4-0)
• Appointed Beth Faxon as representative to Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (3-0)
• Tabled appointment of MRPC representative to next meeting
• Deferred approval of April 7 and April 14 meeting minutes to June 9

Meeting

The Finance Committee discussed the Board of Health's proposed curbside trash pickup program, including revenue from a proposed annual fee and continuation of PAYT. They also discussed reducing the town budget by $100,000 using ARPA funds and reviewed town employment numbers. No votes were taken; the meeting was procedural only.

• No votes or formal decisions recorded; all items were discussed only

Meeting

The Select Board and Board of Health jointly voted to ban second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides on town-owned property, with exceptions for emergencies. The board also appointed Hartley Pleshaw and Lance McNally to the Planning Board, and discussed budget cuts due to lost ARPA funds.

• Approved ban on second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides on town property (5-0-1)
• Appointed Hartley Pleshaw as full Planning Board member until 4/27/2026 (6-0)
• Appointed Lance McNally as Associate Planning Board member until 6/30/2026 (6-0)
• Reappointed Daniel Shine to Board of Registrars until 3/31/2028 (3-0)
• Opened Special Town Meeting warrant on 5/14, closes 5/23 at 5 PM
• Approved minutes of 3/24/2025 (2-0-1)

Joint Meeting

The Planning Board held a joint meeting with the Selectboard and made two appointments. Hartley was appointed as a full Member of the Planning Board effective May 13, 2025, until the annual town election on April 27, 2026. Lance McNally was appointed as an Associate Member effective May 13, 2025, until June 30, 2026. Both appointments were approved unanimously by roll call vote.

• Appointed Hartley as full Planning Board Member (5-0 unanimous)
• Appointed Lance McNally as Associate Planning Board Member (5-0 unanimous)
• Laura Shifrin withdrew her request for Associate Member appointment

Meeting

The Selectboard appointed Town Clerk Harrison Mayotte as Records Access Officer until July 1, 2025, terminated the Metrogov website contract effective May 31, 2025, and reallocated $100,000 from ARPA Affordable Housing Trust to salaries/wages. The board also approved a short-term BAN renewal for $142,500 at 4.35% interest and updated the Webmaster job posting. No substantive decisions were made on the FY26 budget, which remains as previously voted.

• Appointed Town Clerk Harrison Mayotte as Records Access Officer until 07/01/2025 (3-0)
• Re-allocated $100,000 from ARPA line for Affordable Housing Trust to salaries/wages (3-0)
• Terminated Metrogov website contract effective May 31, 2025 (3-0)
• Updated Webmaster posting and job description at Grade C Step 1, $19.93/hour (3-0)
• Signed documents for renewal of short-term BAN for $142,500 at 4.35% interest (3-0)
• Approved report of Selectboard for FY2026 budget process as Article 1 report (3-0)

Special Town Meeting

The Special Town Meeting approved 16 of 18 articles, including appropriations from free cash for insurance, energy, accounting, and a new HVAC unit for the Town Clerk's vault. Voters also reallocated funds for water department equipment and cemetery maintenance. Article 17, which would have added a public lighting bylaw fine schedule, did not pass. Article 9 (COA/Library roof repair) was not acted upon.

• Approved $45,577.04 for Townsend Community Access Media from PEG funds (unanimous)
• Approved $29,000 from free cash for general insurance cost increases (unanimous)
• Approved $75,000 from free cash for energy cost increases (unanimous)
• Approved $25,000 from free cash for accountant services (unanimous)
• Approved $7,500 from free cash for new HVAC unit in Town Clerk's vault (unanimous)
• Approved $262,131 from free cash to offset FY22 snow and ice deficits (majority vote)
• Approved $50,000 from Water Enterprise retained earnings for SCADA system repair (majority vote)
• Article 17 (public lighting bylaw fine schedule) did not pass

Annual Town Meeting

The Annual and Special Town Meeting approved 18 articles, including appropriations from free cash for insurance, energy, accounting, and a new HVAC unit for the Town Clerk's vault. Voters also approved transfers from Water Enterprise retained earnings for a ground penetrating radar unit and SCADA system repairs, and reallocated funds for cemetery maintenance and a website revamp. Article 17, which would have added a public lighting bylaw with fines, did not pass.

• Approved $45,577.04 for Townsend Community Access Media from PEG Access Receipts (unanimous)
• Approved $29,000 from free cash for unbudgeted insurance costs (unanimous)
• Approved $75,000 from free cash for energy cost increases (unanimous)
• Approved $25,000 from free cash for accountant services (unanimous)
• Approved $7,500 from free cash for new HVAC unit in Town Clerk's vault (unanimous)
• Approved $262,131 from free cash to offset FY23 snow and ice deficit (majority vote)
• Approved $50,000 from Water Enterprise retained earnings for SCADA system repairs (majority vote)
• Article 17 (public lighting bylaw fines) did not pass

Meeting

The meeting was largely procedural, with no formal votes or decisions recorded. The committee discussed a cost-free architectural review, a T-Mobile grant being worked on, and the need for summer staff. A Friends of Group was established to assist with grants.

• Established a Friends of Group to assist with grants
• Discussed summer staff appointments, likely needing two people

Executive Session

The Selectboard met in executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy and agreed to a proposed cut budget. Reductions include eliminating a highway vacant position, cutting part-time staff hours, reducing band concerts, and decreasing various departmental expenses. The board will vote on the budget by functional segments in open session.

• Agreed to proposed budget reductions in executive session (3-0)
• Highway vacant position eliminated
• Cemetery part-time admin and help moved to revolving/trust fund for one year
• Facilities part-time helper laid off for 26 weeks
• Facilities part-time custodian hours cut to 9 per week
• Assistant Town Clerk reduced to 19 hours/week with no benefits
• Band concerts reduced from 10 to 8
• Valerie Goodrich stated she will abstain from voting on budget

Meeting

The Selectboard unanimously approved three summer interns for the Water Department, reorganized board leadership and liaison assignments, and adopted updated policies for the West Townsend Reading Room and Memorial Hall Auditorium. The board also discussed the failed override and plans for a balanced budget at the upcoming Annual Town Meeting.

• Appointed Ian Aurajo as Water Department summer intern (3-0)
• Appointed Connor Tesini as Water Department summer intern (3-0)
• Appointed Lucas Kazanjian as Water Department summer intern (3-0)
• Reorganized Selectboard: Laura Shifrin Chair, Veronica Kell Vice-Chair, Valerie Goodrich Clerk (3-0)
• Approved liaison assignments for each board member (3-0)
• Adopted updated West Townsend Reading Room Use Policy (3-0)
• Adopted Policy for Use of Memorial Hall Auditorium (3-0)
• Scheduled joint meeting with Board of Health on rodenticide policy for May 13, 2025

Meeting

The Conservation Restriction Committee discussed the scope of a conservation restriction (CR) for a town property, focusing on allowed and prohibited uses such as hiking, dog walking, and motorized vehicles. They also discussed whether a Water Supply CR could be used and who would hold the CR. No final decisions were made; the committee will continue discussions at the next meeting.

• Minutes from April 10 meeting were approved unanimously.
• Meeting adjourned unanimously at 8:16 PM.

Meeting

The Board of Assessors approved a $10,000 release from the Overlay Account to fund a warrant article for periodic inspections and property data verification, as requested by the Select Board. They also approved two abatement applications reducing assessed values: one for a solar program (LockeBrook Solar) and two residential properties. Meeting minutes from March 18, 2025, were approved unanimously.

• Approved $10,000 overlay release for Assessors warrant article (2-0-1)
• Approved abatement for LockeBrook Solar PILOT adjustment (unanimous)
• Approved abatement #1 reducing assessed value to $425,000 (unanimous)
• Approved abatement #2 reducing assessed value to $177,800 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from March 18, 2025 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Selectboard held a public forum on a proposed $625,000 Proposition 2½ override for the FY26 budget. Town Administrator Nelson Mui presented that the override would maintain current services, while rejection would require $387,000 in cuts, likely eliminating the pay-as-you-throw trash program. Residents asked questions about budget allocations, school funding, and the financial impact. No vote was taken; the override will be decided at the ballot box on April 28, 2025.

• Held public forum on FY26 budget override (no vote taken)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:30 p.m. (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Energy Committee met with two members present and approved minutes from three prior meetings. The committee voted to share its proposed text for the Townsend Master Plan with the Town Administrator, Planning Board, and a regional energy planner. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of 01/15/2025 meeting (2-0)
• Approved minutes of 03/27/2025 meeting (2-0)
• Approved minutes of 04/01/2025 meeting (2-0)
• Voted to share proposed Master Plan text with Town Administrator, Planning Board, and NMCOG planner (2-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Selectboard approved two probationary full-time police officers, a one-day alcohol license for TAYSA's fundraiser, and authorized the Town Administrator to sign a Complete Streets grant contract and a letter of support for Nashoba Associated Boards of Health. The board also approved the Special and Annual Town Meeting warrants contingent on Town Counsel review, and discussed policy changes for the West Townsend Reading Room and Memorial Hall.

• Approved appointment of Niklas Hemley as Probationary Full-Time Police Officer effective 05/05/2025 (2-0)
• Approved appointment of Andrew Romano as Probationary Full-Time Police Officer effective 05/04/2025 (2-0)
• Approved One-Day Special License (Alcohol) for TAYSA fundraiser on 05/04/2025 with rain date 05/18/2025 (2-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign Complete Streets Grant contract (2-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign letter of support for Nashoba Associated Boards of Health (2-0)
• Approved Special Town Meeting and Annual Town Meeting warrants as presented, contingent on Town Counsel review (2-0)
• Approved meeting minutes of 03/11/2025 with changes (2-0)
• Approved payroll and bills payable warrants out of session (2-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Finance Committee voted unanimously to recommend keeping the constable rather than replacing with a police officer for elections, citing a lower cost of $210 per election versus an estimated $800 increase per election. The committee also voted unanimously to recommend maintaining the Reserve Fund at $40,000 for FY26, rejecting a Select Board request to reduce it by an additional $10,000.

• Approved recommendation to keep constable for elections (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to maintain $40,000 Reserve Fund for FY26 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Planning Board voted 4-0 to continue the public hearing for a site plan review and stormwater permit at 324 Main Street to June 9, 2025. The applicant proposes renovating a vacant gas station into a convenience store, office space, and coffee shop with drive-through. The board also closed a public hearing on zoning bylaw amendments for floodplain and age-restricted development, and approved final wording for the Annual Town Meeting warrant.

• Continued 324 Main Street public hearing to June 9, 2025 (4-0)
• Closed public hearing on zoning bylaw amendments for Floodplain District and age-restricted development (4-0)
• Approved final wording of zoning bylaw amendments for Annual Town Meeting warrant (unanimous)

Meeting

The Conservation Restriction Committee voted unanimously to table discussion and begin determining allowed and prohibited uses for a conservation restriction on a town property. The committee clarified its role is limited to detailing the CR and finding a holder, not deciding whether to impose it. A map showing hunting prohibition boundaries was presented, and the committee will review NHESP forms and CRs for public water supplies at the next meeting.

• Approved minutes from March 20, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on conservation restriction to commence determination of allowed and prohibited uses (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:23 PM (unanimous)

Revised

The Selectboard approved a letter of support for the Chapter 90 program, submitted by the Highway Department, for an April 10, 2025 meeting on Governor Healey's Transportation Bond Bill. The joint meeting also included presentations on the town's trash program and budget discussions, but no other binding decisions were made.

• Approved letter of support for Chapter 90 program (2-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Cultural Council accepted the resignation of council member Fran Levi and discussed a potential mural project for the town. A declined FY24 grant of $250 will be rolled into FY26 funds. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.

• Accepted resignation of Fran Levi as Secretary (unanimous)
• Declined $250 grant from Patrick Smith rolled into FY26 grant funds

Meeting

The Finance Committee held a joint meeting with the Select Board to discuss the FY26 budget and the upcoming override ballot question. The Board of Health reported that if the override fails, it will implement a $125/year sticker program with no increase in purple bag fees. The committee also discussed a potential 10% across-the-board cut as a Plan B if the override fails, and the need for a 3-5 year budget with line-item insurance breakdowns. The meeting was procedural with no final decisions or votes on these items.

• Board of Health will implement a $125/year sticker program with no purple bag fee increase if the override fails (reported, not voted)
• Discussed 10% across-the-board cuts as a potential Plan B if the override fails (discussion only)
• Discussed need for a 3-5 year budget and line-item insurance breakdown (discussion only)
• Motion to adjourn joint meeting approved unanimously at 9:39 pm

Meeting

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from March 20, 2025, and continued discussion of the Comcast cable renewal contract. No other decisions were made.

• Approved meeting minutes of March 20, 2025 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Selectboard approved the use of Chapter 90 funds to resurface Greenville Road and Hillside Drive, appointed two per-diem firefighter/paramedics, and granted a one-day alcohol license for a Mother's Day Market event. The board also accepted an Emergency Assistance Funds Policy pending town counsel review and authorized the town administrator to sign contracts for a digitization grant and a bridge engineering contract.

• Approved Chapter 90 funds for resurfacing Greenville Rd and Hillside Dr (2-0)
• Appointed Joseph Lenox as per-diem firefighter/paramedic effective 04/21/2025 (2-0)
• Appointed Joe Padykula as per-diem firefighter/paramedic effective 05/01/2025 (2-0)
• Granted Tavern 13 a one-day alcohol license for Mother's Day Market at Birchhouse Botanicals on 05/10/2025 (2-0)
• Accepted Emergency Assistance Funds Policy pending town counsel review (2-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator as signatory for Community Compact IT grant of $133,727 (2-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign McFarland Johnson contract for Route 13 Walk Bridge engineering/design (2-0)
• Permitted Townsend Democratic Town Committee to use Meeting Room 2 for caucus on May 3, 2025 (2-0)

REVISED

The Planning Board voted to approve a portion of District 1.2A on Fitchburg Road as the new MBTA Communities multifamily overlay district, after the state indicated it would not approve the previously selected District 3. The Board also approved the draft zoning district map and amendments to age-restricted and floodplain bylaws for the Annual Town Meeting.

• Approved portion of District 1.2A as MBTA multifamily overlay district (unanimous)
• Approved draft zoning district map for warrant article at Annual Town Meeting
• Approved amendments to 145-54.1 Age restricted development bylaw for Annual Town Meeting
• Approved amendments to 145-45 Floodplain overlay district bylaw for Annual Town Meeting
• Approved minutes of March 17, 2025 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Finance Committee voted unanimously to write a letter to Fixfundingformula.com in support of increased state funding for local schools. The committee also discussed the solid waste revolving fund and reviewed the omnibus budget. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved letter to Fixfundingformula.com supporting state school funding reform (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 2/18, 2/20, and 2/27 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Selectboard approved several actions including appointing Kathy Spofford as temporary town clerk, opening the Special Town Meeting warrant, signing the Annual Town Election warrant, and authorizing contracts for playground engineering and IT services. The board also discussed ARPA funding for the Human Resources Manager position and set plans for an April 16 public forum on a potential override.

• Appointed Kathy Spofford as temporary town clerk effective 4/28/25 (2-0)
• Approved Green Communities grant application as determined by Energy Committee (2-0)
• Opened Special Town Meeting warrant on 4/2/25, closing 4/14/25 (2-0)
• Signed Annual Town Election warrant for 4/28/25 out of session (2-0)
• Designated Town Administrator as signatory for Kimley Horn playground engineering contract (2-0)
• Designated Town Administrator as signatory for Guardian IT services contract (2-0)
• Approved meeting minutes of 02/18/2025 and 03/04/2025 with changes (2-0 each)

Meeting

The Townsend Energy Committee voted to recommend a $100,000 LED lighting project at Hawthorn Brooke to the Board of Selectmen for the 2025 Green Communities Grant spring round. Other proposals were eliminated due to school closure considerations, lack of funds, or low competitiveness. The committee also endorsed a Retro-Commissioning Study at Memorial Hall.

• Selected Hawthorn Brooke LED project for up to $100K Green Communities Grant (2-0)
• Eliminated remaining LED work at Spaulding due to possible school closing
• Eliminated Decarbonization proposal at Memorial Hall due to lack of funds and no savings
• Eliminated Police Department lines due to low application competitiveness
• Endorsed Retro-Commissioning Study at Memorial Hall for HVAC planning

Meeting

The Townsend Energy Committee discussed the GCGP 2025 Spring Grant but tabled final selections until a special meeting on April 1, 2025, after learning that HVAC proposals are ineligible due to a no-Community Contribution requirement. The committee also tabled approval of January 15 meeting minutes and noted that LED grants are shrinking. No public forum was held.

• Tabled GCGP grant application final selections to April 1 special meeting
• Tabled approval of January 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Noted HVAC proposals ineligible due to no-Community Contribution requirement
• Adjourned meeting at 7:27 PM (2-0 vote)

Meeting

The Townsend Conservation Commission approved an amended Order of Conditions for a house replacement at 56 Bayberry Hill Rd, approved a Notice of Intent for a new house at 23 Shirley Rd with special conditions, and continued a hearing for 22 Sauna Rd. The commission also discussed a potential land sale to Mass Fish and Wildlife for the Dudley Meadows property and considered a conservation restriction for Squannacook Meadows.

• Approved amended Order of Conditions for 56 Bayberry Hill Rd house replacement (unanimous)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 23 Shirley Rd new house with special conditions (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for 22 Sauna Rd house replacement to Apr. 9, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved negative determination for 4.5 Old Battery Rd septic replacement (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Finance Committee voted to recommend eliminating the Human Resource Manager and Community Services Coordinator positions, reallocating ARPA funds to cover the remainder of FY25 and FY26. They also recommended increasing trash bag fees and selecting a trash contract with a base rate plus separate tipping fee. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on the HR manager recommendation.

• Recommended terminating Human Resource Manager position and reallocating ARPA funds for FY25 and FY26 (5-0-1 abstention)
• Recommended terminating Community Services Coordinator position and reallocating ARPA funds for FY25 (unanimous)
• Recommended increasing purple trash bag fees to $6 large/$4 small starting FY26 (unanimous)
• Recommended selecting trash contract with base rate plus separate tipping fee (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 2/6, 2/11, and 2/13 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Selectboard voted unanimously to place a Proposition 2½ override question on the April 28, 2025, regular municipal election ballot, asking voters to allow an additional $625,000 in property taxes for town and school operating budgets. The board also reviewed a preliminary budget showing $254,837 in cuts if the override passes, with further cuts expected from departments that had not yet submitted their numbers. A public forum on the override is scheduled for April 16, 2025, at 7 PM at the North Middlesex Regional School District High School Auditorium.

• Approved placing $625,000 override question on April 28 ballot (2-0)
• Scheduled public forum for April 16, 2025, at 7 PM at NMRSD High School Auditorium

Meeting

The committee elected officers (Chair Veronica Kell, Vice Chair Salina Thomas, Clerk Emily Fine) and discussed next steps for a conservation restriction at Squannacook Meadows to protect rare species while allowing TAYSA's soccer field expansion. Ann Gagnon of MA Fish & Wildlife indicated the state could hold the CR as a gift, simplifying approval. The next meeting is April 10, 2025.

• Elected Veronica Kell as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Salina Thomas as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Emily Fine as Clerk (unanimous)
• Cancelled March 27 meeting
• Set next meeting for April 10, 2025 at 7:00 PM
• Adjourned at 8:13 PM (unanimous)

Revised

The Selectboard voted unanimously to place a $625,000 Proposition 2½ override question on the Annual Town Election ballot to help fund the FY26 operating budget. The override would increase the average single-family tax bill by just under $182 per year. The board also approved a cable negotiation contract and authorized the Town Administrator to sign it.

• Approved adding $625,000 override ballot question to Annual Town Election (2-0)
• Approved cable negotiation contract and authorized Town Administrator to sign (2-0)
• Approved meeting minutes of 02/04/2025 (2-0)

Meeting

The Selectboard approved several capital projects and funding sources, including borrowing $295,000 for a dump truck and using capital stabilization for a fire suppression system. A request from the Townsend Historical Society for funding was withdrawn. The board also renewed a junk dealer license, amended the constable policy, and discussed but did not finalize a public records request policy or the annual town meeting warrant articles.

• Approved renewal of 2025 MJS Metals Junk Dealer License through May 1, 2026 (2-0)
• Amended Constable Policy 07-2023 to remove requirement to announce constable vacancies (2-0)
• Approved $31,100 for CAT loader 930M lease from Capital Stabilization (2-0)
• Approved borrowing $295,000 for 6-wheel dump truck with plow and sander, first payment from Capital Stabilization (2-0)
• Approved $40,000 from Capital Stabilization for Memorial Hall fire suppression replacement (2-0)
• Approved $53,784.84 for Memorial Hall trim, painting, and storm windows from combined town meeting articles (2-0)
• Approved $60,000 for Water Department Master Plan update from Water Enterprise fund (2-0)
• Approved $12,000 for Water Department Cybersecurity Assessment from Water Enterprise fund (2-0)

Meeting

The board met and approved the minutes from previous meetings. No substantive decisions or actions were recorded beyond the procedural approval of minutes.

• Approved and signed meeting minutes (unanimous)

Meeting

The Planning Board voted 5-0 to withdraw the town's pre-adoption application to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) for the proposed MBTA Communities multifamily overlay district (District 3), after EOHLC indicated it would issue a negative determination due to landlocked parcels. The board decided to proceed with the current draft bylaw and District 3 at the Annual Town Meeting without pre-adoption approval, scheduling a public hearing for April 14, 2025. Other items discussed included proposed amendments to affordable housing density bonus, floodplain district, age-restricted development bylaws, and approval of a site plan application for accessory dwelling units with a $300 fee.

• Voted 5-0 to withdraw pre-adoption application to EOHLC for MBTA zoning bylaw and overlay District 3
• Scheduled public hearing on zoning amendments for Annual Town Meeting for April 14, 2025 at 7:10pm
• Approved meeting minutes of 2-24-25 (4-1-0)
• Approved draft site plan application for Accessory Dwelling Units with $300 fee (motion carried)

Revised

The Historic District Commission will consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application from owners of 452 Main Street to relocate an upgraded 200-amp electric meter from the front facade to the west elevation. The owners argue the current location would harm the house's historic appearance and create safety issues. The commission will also review a separate enforcement letter from the Building Commissioner regarding illegal signs at 440 Main St.

• Application to move electric meter at 452 Main St from northeast corner of facade to northernmost corner of west elevation
• Meter upgrade from 60-amp to 200-amp panel cited as reason for relocation request
• Building Commissioner's May 2022 order to remove temporary promotional signs at 440 Main St for violating zoning bylaws
• Property at 440 Main St also noted to be in violation of Historic District sign regulations

The Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for relocating the electric meter at 452 Main Street, despite a conflict between the owners and Unitil. Minutes from January and February were approved, and the commission discussed signage enforcement at The Olde Brick Store. The annual report was approved with edits, though one commissioner abstained.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for electric meter relocation at 452 Main Street (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes of January 9, 2025 (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes of February 13, 2025 with spelling correction (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved 2024 Annual Report as edited (4-0-1, Shifrin abstaining)
• Tabled postcard review until next meeting

Revised

The Commission voted unanimously to continue the amended Order of Conditions for 56 Bayberry Hill Rd to the next meeting, pending revised narrative and map with erosion controls. They also voted 'No Comment' on a mandatory referral for a new fuel station and store at 324 Main St, with one abstention. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Continued 56 Bayberry Hill Rd amended Order of Conditions to next meeting (unanimous)
• Voted 'No Comment' on 324 Main St mandatory referral for fuel station and store (all yes, Kevin Smith abstained)

Revised

The Selectboard held a joint meeting with the Board of Health to discuss solid waste contract proposals, but no contract was signed. The board reviewed two budget scenarios: one assuming an override passes and another with a 20% cut across most departments if it fails. No final decisions were made on the budget or trash contract; the board directed the Town Administrator to share the cut budget with department heads and report back.

• Approved letter of support for Project 211+21 Community Call to Action RE MA School Funding Formula (2-0)
• Directed Town Administrator to share 20% cut budget with department heads, feedback due 3/14/25
• Added Selectboard meeting on 3/19/2025
• Directed Town Administrator to ask Police and Fire Departments to keep budgets under 3% increase
• Deferred Community Preservation Grant application for Town Hall restoration to next round
• Approved review and sign payroll and bills payable warrants out of session (2-0)
• Adjourned joint meeting with Board of Health at 7:14PM (3-0 BOH, 2-0 Selectboard)
• Adjourned Selectboard meeting (2-0)

Selectboard Meeting

The Townsend Selectboard met on March 10, 2025, to review and discuss warrant articles for the upcoming Special Town Meeting. No votes or final decisions were taken; the session was a work session to prepare for the meeting scheduled for the same evening and the following day.

• Reviewed warrant articles for Special Town Meeting on 03/10/2025
• Discussed Article 1: Planning Board will take no action; to be revised for Annual Town Meeting
• Discussed Article 2: Town Clerk salary and benefits; Town Counsel clarified elected position is not subject to Selectboard policies
• Discussed Article 3: Fire Chief Gary Shepherd and/or Veronica Kell to speak
• Discussed Article 4: Laura Shifrin to make motion
• Discussed Article 5: Motion to raise and appropriate $611,363.00; to be voted on at 3/11/25 meeting for ballot
• Discussed Article 6: Correcting previous Special Town Meeting article; if not passed, building cannot be sold
• Motion to adjourn passed (2-0) at 6:32 PM

Meeting

The Townsend Selectboard appointed Daniel Marshall as a full-time police officer, Niamh Mechan as Housing and Grant Administrator, and Daniel Shine as a seasonal laborer. They also discussed the FY24 Green Communities annual report, a potential override for the March 10 Special Town Meeting, and directed the Town Administrator to submit comments to the DPU and a letter supporting remote public meeting extensions.

• Appointed Daniel Marshall as Probationary Full-Time Police Officer (2-0)
• Appointed Niamh Mechan as Housing and Grant Administrator contingent on pre-employment exam (2-0)
• Appointed Daniel Shine as part-time intermittent seasonal laborer to Cemetery and Parks (2-0)
• Directed Town Administrator to submit comments to DPU on notice of inquiry (2-0)
• Directed Town Administrator to submit letter supporting extension of remote public meeting options (2-0)
• Moved approval of 2/4/2025 and 2/18/2025 minutes to next regular meeting (2-0)
• Adjourned joint meeting with Energy Committee at 6:45 PM (2-0)

Joint Meeting with Select Board

The Townsend Energy Committee held a joint meeting with the Select Board to formally present the 2024 Green Communities Grant Program Annual Report. No votes were taken during the meeting. The report from the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) is on file.

• No votes taken

Revised

The Selectboard and Finance Committee held a joint work session to review the town budget, discussing funding for fire services, trash collection, and the town clerk salary. No final decisions were made; the meeting was procedural, focusing on budget balancing strategies and potential cuts if an override fails.

• No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was a work session for budget review

Revised

The Selectboard and Finance Committee jointly approved a $700,620 capital plan covering highway, facilities, fire, water, and police items, but excluded several Memorial Hall and Library projects due to lack of funding. No decision was made on the solid waste contract after extensive discussion; the Board of Health endorsed a pay-as-you-throw and tonnage contract for $487,980 but the Selectboard raised funding concerns. The Finance Committee budget was level-funded with a $50,000 reserve fund, and the committee agreed to merge its mailbox with the Selectboard's for timely mail processing.

• Approved $700,620 capital plan for highway, facilities, fire, water, and police items
• No decision on solid waste contract; Board of Health endorsed $487,980 pay-as-you-throw and tonnage contract
• Level-funded Finance Committee budget with $50,000 reserve fund
• Decided to merge Finance Committee mailbox with Selectboard mailbox for timely mail
• Community Services Coordinator funded at $20,000; Human Resources Manager funded one more year from ARPA
• Both positions to be reduced to part-time in FY27 at about $30,000 each
• Excluded Memorial Hall storm windows, heating system, roof, chimney, and foundation work due to lack of funding
• Placeholder for warrant article repurposes at Town Meeting

Joint Meeting with Finance Committee and NMRHS School Committee

The Selectboard and North Middlesex Regional School District School Committee jointly appointed Kym Craven as Townsend's representative to the NMRSD School Committee, effective February 25, 2025, with a term expiring April 26, 2027. The vote was unanimous (3-0). The meeting also included a work session with the Finance Committee reviewing budgets for facilities, recreation, land use, and the Flag Committee/Band Concert/Memorial Day, but no votes were taken on those budgets. The board also approved reviewing and signing payroll and bills payable warrants out of session.

• Appointed Kym Craven as Townsend representative to NMRSD School Committee (3-0)
• Approved review and signing of payroll and bills payable warrants out of session (2-0)
• Adjourned joint meeting with School Committee at 5:58 PM (2-0)
• Adjourned full meeting at 9:32 PM (2-0)

Joint Meeting with Finance Committee

The Selectboard and Finance Committee discussed the FY26 budget, highlighting a potential $1.2 million override need due to rising costs for schools, pavement management, and trash collection. The Highway Department budget was reviewed, with a $251,000 pavement management line item kept in the budget to show full needs. The Accounting Department budget showed a 4.5% increase. No final decisions were made; the Budget Summit is scheduled for March 1.

• Kept $251,000 pavement management line in budget to demonstrate full needs
• Reduced Highway Department professional services line to $5,627
• Scheduled Budget Summit for March 1, 2025 at 9:00 AM
• Discussed potential $1.2 million override for schools, pavement, and trash
• Noted North Middlesex School override estimate of $941,730 ($272 per household)

Meeting

The provided minutes are largely illegible due to severe text corruption. No decisions, votes, or substantive actions can be reliably extracted from the document.

Joint Meeting with Select Board (Revised

The Selectboard and Finance Committee held a joint meeting to review the Highway and Accounting Department budgets. No formal votes were taken on the budgets; discussion focused on level funding, pavement management, and the potential need for a tax override to maintain services. The Budget Summit was scheduled for March 1, 2025.

• No formal decisions or votes on budgets were recorded
• Budget Summit scheduled for March 1, 2025 at 9:00 AM
• Next meeting set for February 25, 2025 at 6:00 PM

Revised

The Townsend Conservation Commission approved an Order of Conditions Amendment for relocating an underground electric service line at 50 Sauna Row Rd. (7-0). A public hearing on a Notice of Intent for a new house at 23 Shirley Rd. was continued to March 26, 2025, pending a site walk and further review. The commission also approved meeting minutes from June 12, 2024, and January 22, 2025, with a correction.

• Approved Order of Conditions Amendment for electric line relocation at 50 Sauna Row Rd. (7-0)
• Continued Notice of Intent for single-family house at 23 Shirley Rd. to March 26, 2025
• Approved June 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Approved January 22, 2025 meeting minutes with correction (straw bales instead of hay bales)

Revised Joint Selectboard Meeting

The Selectboard held a joint meeting with the Trustees of Soldiers Memorials and the Finance Committee. Peter Buxton was appointed as a trustee (non-veteran position) effective immediately until the Annual Town Election. The board also appointed a police matron and an on-call firefighter, approved signatory authority for a MassWorks grant contract and a playground survey contract, and revised the Public Records Request Policy.

• Appointed Peter Buxton as trustee to Trustees of Soldiers Memorials (6-0)
• Appointed Jessica Demeo as Police Matron effective 02/18/2025 (2-0)
• Appointed David Langton as on-call firefighter effective 03/03/2025 (2-0)
• Designated Townsend Police Department as the Town's Constable and directed policy revision (2-0)
• Revised Public Records Request Policy with specific amendments (2-0)
• Granted signatory authority to Town Administrator Nelson Mui for MassWorks $100,000 Walk Bridge Route 13 grant contract (2-0)
• Granted signatory authority to Town Administrator Nelson Mui for Kimley-Horn playground survey contract (2-0)
• Created vacancy posting for state appointed housing authority representative (2-0)

Joint Meeting with Finance Committee

The Townsend Selectboard and Finance Committee held a joint meeting to review budgets for the Tree Warden, Board of Health, Nashoba Board of Health, Landfill, Building Department, Cemetery and Parks, and Historic District Commission. No final votes were taken on any budget; discussions focused on line items, stipend increases, and potential adjustments. The meeting was procedural and informational only.

• No decisions made; budgets reviewed but not voted on

Joint Meeting with Select Board

The Townsend Select Board and Finance Committee held a joint meeting to review budgets for the Tree Warden, Board of Health, Nashoba Board of Health, Landfill, Building Department, Cemetery and Parks, and Historic District Commission. No final votes were taken on any budget; discussions included stipend increases, contract costs, and line-item clarifications. The meeting was procedural, with no substantive decisions made.

• No decisions made; all items were discussed only

Meeting

The Townsend Historic District Commission approved a solar panel application for 79 Main Street, noting the state reversed its earlier policy on historic district solar restrictions. The commission also discussed a draft postcard to inform homeowners about the certificate process and followed up on Old Brick Store signage violations.

• Approved solar panel application for Jacob Targ at 79 Main Street (unanimous voice vote)
• Tabled approval of January 9, 2025 minutes pending clarification of commission bylaws and CPA question
• Discussed but did not finalize postcard wording for historic district homeowners; chair to compile revisions
• No action taken on Old Brick Store signage; building commissioner visit scheduled

Joint Meeting with Finance Committee

The Selectboard and Finance Committee held a joint meeting to review proposed FY26 budgets for the Animal Control Officer, Police, Communications Center, Fire, and Emergency Management departments. No votes were taken on the budgets; the committees identified questions and requested follow-up information from department heads. The meeting was largely a discussion and review session, with no formal budget approvals or denials.

• Reviewed FY26 ACO budget ($27,477), questioned animal care expense and requested corrected budget sheet
• Reviewed FY26 Police budget, noted 2.25% total increase, requested details on professional services and training lines
• Reviewed FY26 Communications Center budget (2.89% increase), discussed proportional cost allocation among towns
• Reviewed FY26 Fire Department budget (7.36% total increase), flagged overtime at 129.68% of current budget
• Reviewed FY26 Emergency Management budget, questioned $20,000 new equipment line and $80,000 fire truck price increase
• Approved signing payroll and bills payable warrants out of session (2-0)
• Adjourned Selectboard meeting at 7:43 PM (2-0)
• Adjourned Finance Committee meeting at 8:35 PM (6-0)

Joint Meeting with Select Board

The Select Board and Finance Committee held a joint meeting to review proposed FY26 budgets for the Animal Control Officer, Police, Communications Center, Fire, and Emergency Management departments. No votes were taken on the budgets; the committees identified questions and requested follow-up information from department heads. The only formal action was a unanimous vote to authorize signing payroll and bills warrants out of session.

• Reviewed ACO budget ($27,477), flagged salary increase and expense line
• Reviewed Police budget, noted 1.68% personnel increase and vehicle lease rise
• Reviewed Communications Center budget (2.89% increase), questioned mid-year spending
• Reviewed Fire budget (7.36% total increase), flagged overtime and equipment overruns
• Reviewed Emergency Management budget, questioned $20,000 new equipment line
• Discussed $80,000 fire truck price increase, agreed to investigate further
• Approved signing payroll and bills warrants out of session (2-0)

Meeting

The Planning Board unanimously approved a two-year extension for a stormwater management permit at 3 Wheeler Road under Chapter 238 of the Acts of 2024. The board also approved minutes from five prior meetings and discussed upcoming zoning amendments for the Spring Town Meeting, including floodplain district changes and MBTA communities multifamily overlay zoning. No action was taken on a letter regarding a Chapter 61 land sale offer.

• Approved stormwater management permit extension for 3 Wheeler Road (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from November 25, 2024, December 23, 2024, January 9, 2025, January 13, 2025, and January 27, 2025 (5-0)

Joint Meeting

The Selectboard and the Appointing Committee of NVTHS held a joint meeting to appoint Harrison Mayotte as Townsend's Alternate Representative to the Nashoba Valley Technical School Committee. The board also approved several other appointments, surplus requests, and contracts, including a PARC grant for the Kids Kountry Playground and new copiers. Discussion was held on the trash hauling price proposal and the upcoming Special Town Meeting warrant.

• Appointed Harrison Mayotte as Alternate Representative to Nashoba Valley Technical School Committee (4-0)
• Appointed Robert Templeton as Townsend Alternate to Nashua Rivers Wild & Scenic Stewardship Council (2-0)
• Appointed Alan Ross as per diem van driver for Townsend Senior Center (2-0)
• Appointed Susan Gerken as COA representative to Cable Advisory Committee (2-0)
• Re-appointed David Werlin as trustee to Townsend Affordable Housing Trust (2-0, term amended to expire 02/04/2027)
• Approved surplus request for filing cabinets, desk, and gas stove (2-0)
• Approved contract for two new copiers as approved at 1/28/2025 Special Town Meeting (2-0)
• Approved contract for $100,000 PARC grant for Kids Kountry Playground (2-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing on an application from Jacob Targ for a Certificate of Appropriateness to install a 9.43 kW rooftop solar panel system at 79 Main Street. The property is in the historic district, and abutters have submitted waivers of public hearing. The commission will decide whether to approve the installation.

• Application for Certificate of Appropriateness for 23 solar panels (9.43 kW DC) at 79 Main St
• No structural changes or energy storage system proposed
• Main panel to be upgraded from 125A to 200A
• Waivers of public hearing submitted by Jay T. Thiel (78 Main St), ANRE LLC, and Shepherd Farm Inc. (both at 55 Main St)
• Public hearing scheduled for Jan 30, 2025 at 3:00 PM in Room 2, Memorial Hall

The Historic District Commission tabled a decision on Jacob Tang's application to install rooftop solar panels at 79 Main Street, pending further information. The commission also discussed enforcement action regarding signage at the Old Brick Store in West Townsend.

• Tabled rooftop solar panel application for 79 Main Street to February 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing and rescheduled meeting to February 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Discussed potential fines for non-compliance with signage request at Old Brick Store

Meeting

The Selectboard and Finance Committee held a joint meeting to plan budget discussions. They scheduled joint meetings twice a week starting after February 4, 2025, leading up to the budget summit on March 1, 2025. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was primarily organizational.

• Scheduled joint budget meetings for Selectboard and Finance Committee twice a week after February 4, 2025, until the budget summit on March 1, 2025
• Adjourned Selectboard meeting at 7:22 p.m.
• Adjourned Finance Committee meeting at 7:23 p.m.

Meeting

The Selectboard approved a letter of support for a DLTA grant opportunity and appointed Eva Vaughan to the Nashua Rivers Wild & Scenic Stewardship Council for a three-year term. The appointment of Harrison Mayotte to the Nashoba Valley Technical School Committee was moved to the February 4 meeting. The minutes of January 14 and 21 were approved with corrections.

• Approved letter of support for DLTA grant opportunity (2-0)
• Appointed Eva Vaughan to Nashua Rivers Wild & Scenic Stewardship Council for term to expire 06/30/2027 (2-0)
• Approved meeting minutes of 01/14/2025 and 01/21/2025 (2-0)
• Moved appointment of Harrison Mayotte to NVTHS Committee to February 4, 2025 meeting

Meeting

The Planning Board voted unanimously to delay action on vegetative screening at the Locke Brook Solar array at 22 West Meadow Road until the next Annual Vegetative Screening Report is received in June 2025. The board also approved its 2024 Annual Report and endorsed two grant proposals for MBTA zoning compliance and economic development. A local developer presented project plans for feedback during a work session.

• Delayed action on vegetative screening at 22 West Meadow Road solar array until June 2025 report (4-0)
• Approved 2024 Planning Board Annual Report with photo to be added later (4-0)
• Endorsed two District Local Technical Assistance grant proposals for MBTA zoning compliance and economic development
• Removed redundant portion from draft zoning amendment reports for Fall Town Meeting
• Assigned board members to present warrant articles: Article 17 (ADUs), Article 18 (site plan approval), Article 19 (age-restricted developments)

Revised

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to continue a hearing on a Notice of Intent for razing and rebuilding a home at 22 Sauna Row Road within the 100-foot buffer of Vinton Pond, pending erosion control clarifications. The commission also unanimously authorized Conservation Agent Colby Streeter to handle smaller administrative approvals on its behalf. Minutes from January 8 were approved. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Continued hearing on Notice of Intent for 22 Sauna Row Road (raze/rebuild single-family home in buffer zone) to March 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Authorized Conservation Agent Colby Streeter to act on behalf of the commission for smaller administrative actions (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes from January 8, 2025 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Townsend Selectboard approved a lease for four police cruisers, reclassified the Police Records Clerk to a Records Administrator (Grade C), and appointed several committee members. A joint meeting with the Board of Health was cancelled due to improper posting. The board also discussed a proposed CPA bylaw and a pay-as-you-throw grant.

• Approved lease for four police cruisers (2-0)
• Approved reclassification of Police Records Clerk to Records Administrator Grade C (2-0)
• Appointed Don Hayes to Audit Committee (2-0)
• Appointed Veronica Kell to Affordable Housing Trust (2-0)
• Appointed Andrew Micu as On-Call Firefighter (2-0)
• Appointed Don Hayes as Finance Committee rep to Cable Advisory Committee (2-0)
• Appointed Salina Thomas, Michael Potsaid, Emily Fine, and Veronica Kell to Conservation Restriction Committee (each 2-0)
• Approved authority to apply for $62,009 pay-as-you-throw grant (2-0)

Townsend Affordable Housing Trust 1/17/2025

The Townsend Affordable Housing Trust (TAHT) met and unanimously approved a response to an Open Meeting Law complaint filed on January 13, 2025, regarding a Planning Board hearing on January 9, 2025. The response was amended to note that TAHT members attended the hearing as residents of Townsend. The meeting lasted six minutes.

• Approved response to 1/13/2025 Open Meeting Law complaint (3-0)

Meeting

The Townsend Energy Committee approved a new Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for energy projects, prioritizing a heating system for Memorial Hall as requested by the Facilities Department. The committee also discussed the closure of Spaulding School, where a recent $185K grant project was completed, and noted that the next Green Communities Competitive Grant (GCGP) application round opens March 24, 2025, with an April 4 deadline. No public comments were received.

• Approved RFQ for energy projects, prioritizing Memorial Hall heating system (2-0)
• Approved minutes from November 13, 2024 meeting (2-0)

**REVISED

The Selectboard and Board of Health held a joint meeting to discuss the curbside trash and recycling program. G W Shaw & Son Inc presented a price proposal for FY26, and the boards requested two cost breakdowns. The PAYT program revenue is the primary funding source, but a deficit remains, requiring a combination of general fund, tax dollars, or other measures. No decisions were made; the matter was continued to the next meeting.

• No decisions made; discussion only on FY26 trash contract proposal

Meeting

The Planning Board unanimously approved and endorsed an ANR (Approval Not Required) plan for five lots on Greenville Road, each meeting zoning requirements for frontage and acreage. The Board also reviewed draft warrant articles for the upcoming Fall Town Meeting, including accessory dwelling units, site plan approval, and age-restricted development bylaw amendments. A request to rescind a prior decision was denied, as the Board determined no action could be taken after the public hearing had closed.

• Approved ANR plan for five lots on Greenville Road (4-0)
• Approved minutes of 10-21-24 (3-0-1, Shepherd abstained)
• Approved minutes of 11-04-24 (unanimous)
• Denied request to rescind prior Board decision (no action taken)
• Requested meeting with Nexamp Inc. regarding Locke Brook solar array stormwater management
• Decided to submit DLTA grant expression of interest for MBTA Communities and Economic Development projects

Meeting

The Townsend Historic District Commission will consider applications for Certificates of Appropriateness for repairs to the Spaulding Cooperage at 1 South Street and the Spaulding Gristmill at 2 South Street. The applications are supported by conditional approval letters from Historic New England. The Commission will decide whether to issue the certificates.

• Spaulding Cooperage repairs: replace clapboards, trim, sill, window sashes, floor joists; repoint chimney with lime mortar.
• Spaulding Gristmill repairs: replace siding and trim, repair window sashes, prime and repaint exterior.
• Historic New England does not approve epoxy repairs, engineered wood, or cement-based mortars for either building.
• Applications filed by Townsend Historical Society for both properties.

The Townsend Historic District Commission approved two Certificates of Appropriateness for repairs to historic buildings at 2 South Street (Grist Mill) and 1 South Street (Cooperage), both owned by the Townsend Historical Society. The approvals allow permits to be issued for siding, window, and structural repairs already vetted by Historic New England. The commission also discussed a postcard design to educate property owners about historic district rules and scheduled file reorganization for April.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for Grist Mill repairs at 2 South Street (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for Cooperage repairs at 1 South Street (unanimous, 1 absent)
• Approved reimbursement for clerk's ink expenses (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 12, 2024 (unanimous)

Meeting

The Planning Board voted to accept proposed zoning bylaw amendments for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and age-restricted developments, with minor corrections, to be presented at the January 28, 2025 Fall Town Meeting. The amendments align Townsend's ADU regulations with new state law allowing ADUs by right, subject to site plan approval. The board also reduced the acreage requirement for age-restricted developments from 2 acres to 1 acre.

• Approved zoning amendments for ADUs and age-restricted development in aggregate (4-0)
• Approved changing definition from 'accessory apartment' to 'accessory apartment or Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)' (3-0)
• Approved removing erroneous reference in Section 145-36 C.4 (4-0)
• Closed public hearing on proposed zoning amendments (3-0)

Revised

The Townsend Conservation Commission met on Jan 8, 2025, but lacked a quorum to vote on the main agenda item, a Notice of Intent for razing and rebuilding a single-family home at 22 Sauna Row Rd within 100 feet of Vinton Pond. The hearing was continued to Jan 22, 2025. The commission did approve minutes from Dec 11, 2024, and appointed a conservation restriction representative for Squannacook Meadows.

• Approved meeting minutes from Dec 11, 2024 (unanimous)
• Appointed Mike Potsaid as conservation restriction representative for Squannacook Meadows (unanimous)
• Continued hearing on 22 Sauna Row Rd NOI to Jan 22, 2025 due to lack of quorum

Selectboard Meeting

The Selectboard approved all 19 warrant articles for the January 28, 2025 Special Town Meeting, including placeholders pending Town Counsel review. The board also appointed several officials, reorganized its leadership, and created a Conservation Restriction Committee for Squannacook Meadows.

• Approved warrant articles 1-19 for Special Town Meeting on 01/28/2025 (2-0)
• Appointed Lisa Struthers, David Funaiole, Kerri Walonoski, and Laura Shifrin to Cable Advisory Committee (2-0)
• Appointed Colby Streeter as Conservation Agent effective 01/13/2025 (2-0)
• Appointed Erin Stefield as Land Use Coordinator effective 01/13/2025 (2-0)
• Appointed Dylan Smith as Temp Seasonal Emergency Worker to Highway Dept. effective 12/21/2024 (2-0)
• Re-appointed Police Chief Sartell, Fire Chief Shepherd, and Michael Grimley to Patriot RECC Board effective 01/07/2025 (2-0)
• Reorganized Selectboard: Laura Shifrin Chair, Veronica Kell Vice-Chair, Clerk vacant until 04/28/2025 election (2-0)
• Created Conservation Restriction Committee for Squannacook Meadows with 5 members (2-0)