Shirley public meetings in 2025

Select Board

The Select Board will consider the renewal of food, alcohol, and automatic amusement licenses for 12 businesses. The board will also review annual Class II and Class III license renewals for several automotive and equipment companies.

• Food, Alcohol, and Automatic Amusement Licensure Renewal for 2026 for 12 businesses, including Bull Run Restaurant and Dunkin Donuts
• Class II Annual License Renewal for 2026 for Mohawk Village Motors, Townsend Collision Center, USA Auto Sales, and Dirocco Welding Inc
• Class III Annual License Renewal for 2026 for Landy Brothers
• Class II/III Annual License Renewal for 2026 for Insurance Auto Auctions Corp., Assabet Mack Co., Warila Enterprises Inc., and Shirley Garage

The board unanimously approved renewal licenses for twelve food, alcohol and amusement establishments for 2026. It also approved Class II, III, and I/II license renewals for several automotive businesses. Two treasury warrants totaling $214,654.70 were approved. All motions passed with a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved renewal license for Bull Run Restaurant (3‑0)
• Approved renewal license for Phoenix Bar and Grill, contingent on balances paid by 1/1/2026 (3‑0)
• Approved renewal license for Piccolino Club (3‑0)
• Approved renewal license for K&J Airport Diner (3‑0)
• Approved Class II license renewal for Mohawk Village Motors (3‑0)
• Approved Class II license renewal for Townsend Collision Center (3‑0)
• Approved Warrant W26-12 for $154,671.96 (3‑0)
• Approved Warrant W26-13 Supply All Common for $59,982.74 (3‑0)

Historical Commission

The Shirley Historical Commission will consider several items, including approving minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting and reviewing a revised design for post lanterns at 18 Parker Rd. The commission will discuss homeowner plans for a carport and rear one‑story addition at the same address, and continue a proposal to sponsor historic home signage for Shirley residents. A draft policy to restrict metal detecting on town property will be approved, and Verizon's proposed changes to cell antennas on the President’s Building on Leominster Rd will be reviewed for comment.

• Approve minutes of the November 18, 2025 meeting
• Review and approve COA 2025‑2 design for post lanterns at 18 Parker Rd
• Discuss homeowner plans for carport and rear addition at 18 Parker Rd
• Approve draft policy restricting metal detecting on town property
• Review Verizon's proposed changes to cell antennas on President’s Building, Leominster Rd

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will vote on the re-certification of the FY26 budget and a request for capital stabilization funding. The committee will also consider approval for three robotics field trips and a policy revision regarding competency determination.

• Vote on FY26 Budget re-certification
• Vote on Capital Stabilization Funding Request
• Vote on Robotics trips to Bedford, NH; West Springfield, MA; and Houston, TX
• Vote on revised Policy IKF- Competency Determination
• Payment warrants totaling $3,581,312.17

Greenway Committee

The Shirley Greenway Committee will meet virtually to discuss updates on the Pumpkin Brook Link invasive plant management project, the Forest Legacy Project, and the Fredonian Park Restoration Project. The meeting will also cover the Shirley Trails, a public trails information session, and the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Pumpkin Brook Link Invasive Plant Management Project update
• Forest Legacy Project update
• Fredonian Park Restoration Project update
• Shirley Trails update
• Approval of Meeting Minutes

Recreation Commission

The Shirley Recreation Commission will consider approving pending bills. It will also approve the minutes from the previous meeting. Additionally, the commission will receive updates from Summer in Shirley Camp, the Penguins Swim Team, and youth soccer and basketball programs in Shirley and Ayer.

• Review and approve bills
• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Summer in Shirley Camp update
• Penguins Swim Team update
• Shirley Youth Soccer update

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a soil removal permit application for properties on Parker Road and Great Road. The board will also receive updates on winter parking and sidewalk management.

• Public hearing for soil removal permit application by Jeffrey Dusti for parcels 72 A 1.3 and 72 A 3 on Parker Road and Great Road
• Town Administrator report on winter parking and sidewalk updates
• Town Offices holiday hours update
• Annual license renewals due December 22, 2025
• Approval of treasury warrants

The board approved a soil removal permit for Jeffrey Dusti with conditions. It also approved seven treasury warrants ranging from $156,055.00 to $1,047,848.58. The meeting minutes were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved soil removal permit for Jeffrey Dusti with conditions (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W26-13 for $238,752.02 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W26-12 Supp. Reissue for $439,588.61 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W26-13 CH. 90 Paving for $480,353.35 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W26-13 No Check for $1,047,848.58 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W26-12 Supplemental for $440,953.96 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant PRW26-11 for $156,055.00 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W26-13 J.J. Phelan for $241,889.75 (3-0 unanimous)

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The Enhancing Shirley Committee will review and approve the minutes from the previous meeting. It will also consider any bills presented for approval. The committee will discuss plans for new fundraising activities and the development of a Welcome Wagon program. Additional matters may be raised by the chair, and the date for the next meeting will be set.

• Approve Meeting Minutes
• Approve Any Bills
• Plans for New fundraising
• Putting together Welcome Wagon Plans
• Any additional matters deemed necessary by the Chair

The Enhancing Shirley Committee approved its meeting minutes and then unanimously voted on a series of purchases, including a star for the Christmas tree, holiday decorations, benches, planters, flowers for Whiteley Park, and items for Veterans Row. The committee also approved a $40 banner and thank‑you cards totaling $107.27, and agreed to create a Code of Conduct to be reviewed at the next meeting.

• Approved Committee Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Voted unanimously to purchase a star for the Christmas tree
• Voted unanimously to purchase holiday/Christmas decorations for next year
• Voted unanimously to purchase 4 benches, planters and flowers for Whiteley Park
• Voted unanimously to purchase an additional banner for $40.00 and thank‑you cards totaling $107.27
• Voted unanimously to purchase additional totes if needed
• Voted unanimously to create a Code of Conduct to be reviewed and signed at the next meeting
• Voted unanimously to purchase more Veterans Trees, a lighted flag, path lights, and spring flowers for Veterans Row

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a resource area delineation for Parker Village LLC. The body will also discuss land management updates, including a 30.24-acre donation at 36 Groton Road and various DPW projects.

• Public Hearing: Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation at Great & Parker Roads (Parker Village LLC)
• Payment of $5,825.00 to ERS Electric Services Inc. for electrical work at Longley Acres
• Discussion of 30.24+/- acre donation to Shirley CC from GAD Realty Trust at 36 Groton Road
• Review of New England Power Company Electric Transmission Maintenance Notification
• Enforcement Order regarding Culvert Replacement Project at Horse Pond Road (Shirley DPW)

The commission approved the meeting minutes from November 25, 2025. It also approved a $5,825 invoice from ERS Electric Services for electrical upgrades at the Longley Acres caretaker's house. The public hearing on the Great & Parker Roads resource area delineation was closed. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved November 25, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved $5,825 ERS Electric Services invoice for Longley Acres caretaker house (5-0)
• Closed public hearing on Great & Parker Roads resource area delineation (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will approve the minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting and review a series of tax exemption, classification, and lien reports for 2024‑2027. They will also discuss the FY2026 tax rate recapulation. Additional assessor forms and payroll items will be considered.

• Approval of regular meeting minutes from November 3, 2025
• Review of 2024 and 2025 MV Excise Abatement End of Month Report – November
• Consideration of FY2026 statutory tax exemption applications
• Discussion of FY2026 tax rate recapulation
• Review of FY2026 sewer usage and trash liens added to tax warrant

250th Anniversary Committee

The committee will review the Thanksgiving Eve Reunion and approve bills for payment. Members will discuss the procurement of sales items and the status of several anniversary projects.

• Approval of bills to pay
• Discussion on ordering sales items for in-person purchase
• Progress updates on elm tree planting
• Progress updates on Nashoba Tech filming and band concert
• Management of the 250th scrapbook and a potential wooden photo booth

The Shirley 250th Anniversary Committee approved the minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting. It also approved an expenditure of up to $200 for wood to build a photo booth, with Kevin moving and Jason seconding the motion.

• Approved minutes of 11/19/2025 meeting
• Approved up to $200 for photo booth wood (motion by Kevin, seconded by Jason)

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Hazen Memorial Library Board will approve the prior meeting minutes, receive the Treasurer's and Director's reports, and receive updates on the library's budget, building, personnel, policies, and programs. The board will also review and sign invoices, set the date for the next meeting, and address any unforeseen business.

• Approve previous meeting minutes
• Treasurer's report
• Director's report
• Updates on budget, building, personnel, policies, and programs
• Review and sign invoices; set next meeting date

Conservation Commission

The Shirley Conservation Commission will review and approve the minutes from the November 25, 2025 meeting and consider several public‑hearing continuances. Items include a resource‑area delineation for Great & Parker Roads, a Notice of Intent for a single‑family home at 0 Leominster Road within 200 feet of a Riverfront Area, and a Notice of Intent for an ADA walking path at 0 Fredonian Street near a vegetated wetland and floodplain. Additional agenda items cover a New England Power Company transmission maintenance notice, an emergency certification for a beaver‑dam flow device, and updates on land‑management projects and a 30‑acre donation.

• Public hearing continuance – Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation for Great & Parker Roads (73-A-5, 5.42, 9.1) – McCabe, Parker Village LLC
• Public hearing continuance – Notice of Intent for 0 Leominster Road (17-C-12) – Apple Valley Homes, LLC – single‑family home within 200 ft of Riverfront Area
• Public hearing continuance – Notice of Intent for 0 Fredonian Street (16-D-15.1) – Town of Shirley – ADA walking path near vegetated wetland and floodplain
• Notification letter – New England Power Company U21‑V22 electric transmission maintenance (letter dated Oct 1 2025)
• Land donation – approximately 30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust to Shirley Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted to continue the public hearing on the Great & Parker Roads resource area delineation to the next meeting on December 11, 2025 (5‑0). It also voted to continue the public hearing on the Leominster Road notice of intent to the meeting on January 13, 2026 (6‑0). The commission then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Continue Great & Parker Roads resource area hearing to Dec 11, 2025 (5-0)
• Continue Leominster Road notice of intent hearing to Jan 13, 2026 (6-0)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimously)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review reports from the Director and Secretary. The body will discuss upcoming program planning, including training and holiday events.

• Alzheimer’s/Dementia training
• Jewelry appraisal
• Holiday Craft Fair on 12/13
• Letters to Santa process

The board approved the November 10, 2025 meeting minutes as written. Directors reported attendance numbers, a $15,000 donation from Senator Cronin for new chairs and tables, and upcoming projects such as exterior painting quotes and a January 7 Alzheimer's training. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded for any items.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss and vote on a user fee for the Solid Waste and Recycling Curbside Program. It will also review an innovative septic design repair proposal for 170 Groton Road, and consider a request to install a 500‑gallon underground propane tank at L orden Oil, 80 Patterson Road. Additional items include reviewing a National Grid invoice for $13.28 and addressing non‑compliance notices for 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street.

• Discussion and approval of user fee for Solid Waste and Recycling Curbside Program
• Review/approval of innovative septic design repair at 170 Groton Road (Evan Carloni)
• Permission to install 500‑gallon underground propane tank at L orden Oil, 80 Patterson Road
• Review of National Grid invoice for $13.28
• Review of non‑compliance notices for 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street

Planning Board

The Shirley Planning Board will continue a public hearing for a take-out restaurant at 25 Main Street. The board will also discuss town bylaws, approve meeting minutes, and set the date for the next meeting.

• Continue public hearing: 25 Main Street site plan/restaurant use
• Discuss Town Trees and Stonewall Bylaws
• Approve meeting minutes from Oct 15, Nov 5, and Nov 19, 2025
• Discuss next meeting date: December 17, 2025
• Review legal ads from neighboring towns

The Board voted to continue the public hearing for the 25 Main Street take‑out restaurant application to the January 7, 2026 meeting. It also approved the minutes from four previous meetings and signed the decision for the local Pickleball club. The December 17, 2025 meeting was cancelled unless an urgent matter arises, and the board adjourned at 6:44 p.m.

• Continued public hearing for 25 Main St restaurant to Jan 7, 2026 (3-0)
• Approved minutes from Oct 15, Nov 5, Nov 19, and Nov 25, 2025 (3-0)
• Signed decision for Pickleball club (Anthony Cardillo) (unanimous)
• Cancelled Dec 17, 2025 Planning Board meeting unless urgent matter (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:44 p.m. (3-0)

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer‑Shirley Regional School Committee will hold its regular meeting to consider several items. Members will vote to approve the November 19, 2025 regular session minutes and adopt the 2025‑2026 School Improvement Plan for Lura A. White Elementary School. The committee will also conduct a first read of a proposed revision to the IKF‑Competency Determination policy, receive an update on the FY26 budget, and review the superintendent’s evaluation. A budget discussion will take place in executive session as required by state law.

• Vote to approve November 19, 2025 regular session minutes (consent agenda)
• Adopt 2025‑2026 School Improvement Plan for Lura A. White Elementary School
• First read of Proposed Revision Policy IKF‑Competency Determination
• Update on FY26 Budget presented by superintendent and finance staff
• Review of superintendent’s evaluation

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and approve the meeting minutes. It will receive the Town Administrator’s report and an update on the school budget. The committee will also schedule the next meeting and consider any additional administrative matters the Chair deems necessary.

• Meeting minutes review and approval
• Town Administrator’s Report
• School Budget Meeting Update
• Next Meeting scheduling
• Any additional administrative matters deemed necessary by the Chair

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will vote to establish a new Agricultural Committee and to appoint its members. A joint appointment will place Matt Thomas on the Recreation Commission. The Town Administrator will report on the submission of a Tax Recapture and MS4 storm‑water management reports. The board will also approve Treasury warrants and the meeting minutes.

• Vote to create an Agricultural Committee
• Vote to populate the Agricultural Committee
• Joint appointment of Matt Thomas to the Recreation Commission
• Submission of Tax Recapture report
• Submission of MS4 Storm Water Management reports

The board created an Agricultural Committee and appointed six members to it, each vote unanimous (2‑0). It also appointed Matt Thomas to the Recreation Commission. Finally, the board approved a series of treasury warrants totaling $2,913,320.96, all votes unanimous (2‑0).

• Created Agricultural Committee (2‑0 unanimous)
• Appointed Sarah Landry to Agricultural Committee (2‑0 unanimous)
• Appointed Mike Sulmante to Agricultural Committee (2‑0 unanimous)
• Appointed Kerri Mitton to Agricultural Committee (2‑0 unanimous)
• Appointed Jennifer McGuiness to Agricultural Committee (2‑0 unanimous)
• Appointed Stephen Hampson to Agricultural Committee (2‑0 unanimous)
• Appointed Matt Thomas to Recreation Commission (2‑0 unanimous)
• Approved treasury warrants totaling $2,913,320.96 (2‑0 unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission and Select Board will meet to appoint a new commission member. The commission will also review bills and receive updates on several youth sports programs.

• Appointment of new Recreation Commission member
• Review and approval of bills
• Updates on Summer in Shirley, Penguins Swim Team, and youth soccer and basketball programs
• Discussion regarding hiring and sharing staff with the Highway Department

The commission unanimously appointed Matt Thomas as a Recreation Commissioner and swore him in. Linda Cournoyer was nominated and approved to review the November 18 meeting minutes. An agenda item on highway department staff sharing was removed for now, and Melissa Schrock was tasked with providing the town's recreation financial report this week. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Appointed Matt Thomas as Recreation Commissioner (unanimous)
• Nominated Linda Cournoyer to review 11/18 minutes (all in favor)
• Removed highway department staff‑sharing agenda item (pending)
• Assigned Melissa Schrock to provide recreation financial report this week
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Shirley Planning Board will hold a public hearing to adopt new stormwater regulations. The board may also address any additional administrative matters deemed necessary by the Chair. No other specific items are listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing on adoption of stormwater regulations

The Planning Board held a public hearing on adopting stormwater regulations. After discussion and agreeing on a few edits, the board approved the regulations with the edits, passing the motion unanimously (5‑0). The board also unanimously closed the hearing, adjourned the meeting, and the chair will incorporate the edits and send the final version to the Town Administrator.

• Approved Stormwater Regulations with agreed edits (5-0)
• Closed public hearing (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)
• Chair to make edits and send final version to Town Administrator

Veterans Events Committee

The Veterans Event Committee will meet to discuss the successes and areas for improvement regarding the Veterans Day event. The committee will also sign invoices for payment.

• Review of Veterans Day event
• Signing of invoices for payment

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings for residential and park projects near riverfront areas. The body will also discuss a 30.24-acre land donation and maintenance for Longley Acres.

• Emergency Certification for flow pipe insertion at 105 Great Road
• Public hearing for single family home construction at 0 Leominster Road
• Public hearing for ADA walking path at Fredonian Park (0 Fredonian Street)
• 30.24+/- acre land donation from GAD Realty Trust at 36 Groton Road
• Maintenance at Longley Acres including heating oil tank replacement and well decommissioning

The commission approved the meeting minutes unanimously. It voted 4-1 to issue an emergency certification for installing a flow pipe in a beaver dam on Mulpus Brook at 105 Great Road. The commission also unanimously continued three public hearings to future meetings and cancelled the December 23, 2025 commission meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved emergency certification for 105 Great Road (4-1)
• Continued Great & Parker Roads public hearing to Dec 9, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued Leominster Road public hearing to Dec 9, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued Fredonian Street public hearing to Jan 13, 2026 (5-0)
• Cancelled Dec 23, 2025 commission meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The Enhancing Shirley Committee will consider approving the minutes from the previous meeting and any pending bills. It will also review any additional needs for the Light Up Shirley Project and discuss plans for the Welcome Wagon program. Additional matters may be raised by the chair, and the next meeting date will be set.

• Approve meeting minutes
• Approve pending bills
• Review additional needs for Light Up Shirley Project
• Discuss Welcome Wagon plans
• Consider any additional matters raised by the chair

The Enhancing Shirley Committee voted unanimously to approve several purchases and payments for the holiday lighting event, including lights for Whiteley Park, electrician services for Veteran’s Row, and volunteer gifts. Donations and small-item purchases were also authorized, and a bamboo marshmallow stick order was approved. The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 pm.

• Approved purchase of lights for Whiteley Park bushes (unanimous)
• Approved payment to electrician for Veteran’s Row (unanimous)
• Approved payment to High Caliber Engraving for plaque repair (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of volunteer gifts for park lighting installation (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of additional extension cords (Aubuchon donation $197) (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of custom charcuterie boards as gifts (unanimous)
• Approved payment to Kayla for food expenses for tree lighting lunch (unanimous)
• Approved ordering of bamboo marshmallow sticks (unanimous)

Stormwater Committee

The committee will hold a workshop to review the draft stormwater regulations prepared by the town consultant, Beta. A vote may be taken to advance the revised regulations to the Planning Board. Administrative matters may be addressed as deemed appropriate by the Chair. The draft regulation document is attached to the agenda.

• Workshop to review model stormwater regulations drafted by consultant Beta
• Potential vote to advance the revised regulations to the Planning Board
• Administrative matters as determined by the Chair

The committee met virtually on November 20, 2025, with Chair Sarah Widing and member Jen McGuinness. They reviewed the draft stormwater regulations prepared by the town consultant, Beta. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer‑Shirley Regional School Committee will consider a consent agenda that includes several FY26 AP and payroll warrants, including a payroll warrant for $1,129,736.94. New business items include votes on School Improvement Plans for Ayer Shirley Regional High School and Page Hilltop Elementary School, approval of grants awarded to date, and updates on the FY26 General Fund Budget and FY27 budget timeline. Ongoing business features a third‑read vote on the Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy.

• Consent Agenda – AP Warrant 1065 for $321,327.23 (FY26 biweekly)
• Consent Agenda – AP Warrant 1071 for $1,083,347.68 (FY26 biweekly)
• Consent Agenda – Payroll Warrant dated 10/31/2025 for $1,129,736.94 (FY26 biweekly)
• New Business – Vote on School Improvement Plan for Ayer Shirley Regional High School
• New Business – Vote on School Improvement Plan for Page Hilltop Elementary School

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a site plan and special permit for a pickleball club. The board will also continue a hearing for a take-out restaurant at 25 Main Street and review plans for Parker Village 40B.

• Public hearing: Pickle Ball Club at 114 Lancaster Road (Lancaster Road Holdings LLC)
• Continued public hearing: Take-out restaurant at 25 Main Street (James Stephen, Marc Dale LLC)
• Review of Parker Village 40B Plans
• Review decision for Parker at Great Road (Jeffrey Dusti)

The board approved the Special Permit and Site Plan Review for Lancaster Road Holdings' indoor pickleball club at 114 Lancaster Road, adding conditions on parking reports, building permits, signage and hours of operation. The board also amended a condition in the Great Road special‑permit decision and approved that decision. All motions passed unanimously with a 4‑0 vote.

• Amended condition I of the Great Road special‑permit decision to require filing with the Registry of Deeds (4‑0)
• Approved the Great Road special‑permit decision letter for Jeffrey Dusti (4‑0)
• Approved waivers requested for the Lancaster Road pickleball club project (4‑0)
• Approved the Special Permit for the Lancaster Road pickleball club (4‑0)
• Approved the Site Plan Review for the Lancaster Road pickleball club (4‑0)

250th Anniversary Committee

The Shirley 250th Anniversary Committee will review its previous minutes, discuss details for a Thanksgiving Eve reunion, and consider any new ideas. The committee will also decide on the date for its next meeting. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• Review minutes
• Discuss Thanksgiving Eve reunion details
• Other updates
• Any new ideas
• Decide on next meeting date

Historical Commission

The Shirley Historical Commission will review and ratify two Certificate of Appropriateness applications for window replacements at 12 Parker Rd. and post lanterns at 18 Parker Rd. The meeting will also continue discussions on historic home signage and metal detecting restrictions on town property.

• Review and ratify COA 2025-1 at 12 Parker Rd. (Replace clerestory and dormer windows)
• Review and ratify COA 2025-2 at 18 Parker Rd. (Install two post lanterns)
• Continue discussion on historic home signage proposal
• Discuss metal detecting restrictions on town property
• Review design for new safety zone signage in Shirley Center

Greenway Committee

The committee will receive updates on the Pumpkin Brook Link invasive plant management and Forest Legacy projects. Members will discuss signage and engineering for the Fredonian Park Restoration Project and potential pollinator corridor collaborations. The meeting also includes updates on the Housing Committee and Shirley Trails.

• NSN Wild & Scenic Rivers Stewardship Council 2025 Community Grant Award update
• Pumpkin Brook Link Invasive Plant Management Project update
• Fredonian Park Restoration Project signage, volunteer work, and engineering plan
• MVP Grant collaboration opportunity for Regional Pollinator Action Plan
• Planning for a Shirley Trails and Paddling public information session

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will discuss a possible Commissioner role with Matt Thomas and consider moving its bi‑weekly meetings to a different evening. It will review and approve bills and the minutes from the prior meeting. Program updates—including Summer in Shirley, Penguins Swim Team, and youth soccer and basketball—will be presented. The commission will also address staff hiring and sharing with the Highway Department.

• Discussion with Matt Thomas about a potential Commissioner role
• Consider moving future bi‑weekly meetings to a different evening
• Review and approve bills
• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Approach Highway Department regarding hiring and sharing staff

The commission voted to hold future meetings on Monday nights at 6:00 PM and to hold a joint meeting with the Select Board to appoint Matt Thomas. Katie Aponte nominated Linda Cournoyer to review and approve bills and Jonathan Deforge to review and approve the meeting minutes; both nominations passed unanimously. The board also decided to offer community‑service credit to high‑school students who help the kindergarten basketball coach. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Move regular meetings to Monday evenings at 6:00 PM (board decision)
• Schedule joint meeting with Select Board to appoint Matt Thomas (board decision)
• Linda Cournoyer appointed to review and approve bills (all in favor)
• Jonathan Deforge appointed to review and approve meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Offer community‑service credit to high‑school students assisting kindergarten basketball coach (board decision)
• Motion to adjourn passed (all in favor)

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review the treasurer's and director's reports. The session includes updates on the library budget, building, personnel, policies, and programs.

• Review and signing of invoices
• Budget and building updates
• Personnel and policy updates

Select Board

The Special Town Meeting will consider ten articles, including payments for prior‑year invoices, funding for roadway signage, fire vehicle repair, Center Town Hall repairs, and a land sale to the Commonwealth. It will also address Community Preservation Fund projects, a salary classification amendment, and amendments to the Affordable Housing Trust and zoning bylaws. Each article requires a vote as indicated.

• Article 1: Transfer $8,367.01 from Free Cash to pay invoices for Geological Field Services, WB Mason, Ace Service Company, and Amazon
• Article 2: Transfer $10,000 from Free Cash for roadway and traffic signage
• Article 3: Transfer $8,000 from Free Cash for fire vehicle repair and conversion to a brush truck
• Article 4: Transfer $20,000 from Free Cash for repairs to the Center Town Hall
• Article 9: Authorize sale of ~10.7 acres on the west side of Lawton Road to the Commonwealth for $26,750

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will convene to approve treasury warrants and meeting minutes from September through November. The body will also consider a possible vote on the Special Town Meeting Warrant.

• Possible vote on Special Town Meeting Warrant
• Approval of Treasury Warrants
• Approval of Meeting Minutes (9/22/2025, 10/6/2025, 11/3/2025)

The Select Board approved the minutes from the September 22, October 6, and November 3, 2025 meetings, each by a unanimous 3‑0 vote. The board then adjourned the November 17 meeting by a unanimous 3‑0 vote. No other actions or votes were taken.

• Approved 9/22/2025 meeting minutes (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved 10/6/2025 meeting minutes (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved 11/3/2025 meeting minutes (3-0 unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0 unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider any additional administrative matters the Chair deems necessary and will discuss matters related to the upcoming Town Meeting. No specific contracts, rezoning, or ordinance items are listed.

• Any additional administrative matters deemed necessary by the Chair
• Discussion of the upcoming Town Meeting

Stormwater Committee

The Shirley Stormwater Committee will hold a virtual meeting to discuss MS4 compliance and workshop revisions to the town's stormwater regulations.

• Workshop to review and revise model stormwater regulations
• Discussion on MS4 Compliance with BETA
• Review of Draft 3-3-25_REV2025 stormwater regulations

The Shirley Stormwater Committee held a virtual workshop to review and revise the model stormwater regulations provided by town consultant Beta. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was limited to discussion of the draft document.

• Reviewed draft stormwater regulations (no vote taken)

Housing Committee

The Shirley Housing Committee will discuss the expansion of existing mobile homes and the special permit requirements needed. They will also review and approve the October 2025 meeting minutes, consider a training session by Bill Oelfke if available, and receive updates on the Housing Trust application support, Habitat for Humanity research, and inclusionary zoning research.

• Approve October 2025 meeting minutes
• Potential training session by Bill Oelfke (if available)
• Project status check‑in and new task discussion
• Housing Trust support for creating applications
• Expansion of existing mobile homes and special permit requirements

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss a variance and upgrade request submitted by Chris MacKenzie and Dillis & Roy for 97 Townsend Road. It will review a Planning Board Review Form for Lancaster Road Holdings LLC to operate a pickleball club at 114 Lancaster Road, and consider soil removal permits for Jeff Dusti. The board will also address non‑compliance issues at 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street, and handle routine administrative items.

• Variance and upgrade request – 97 Townsend Road (Chris MacKenzie, Dillis & Roy)
• Planning Board Review Form – Lancaster Road Holdings LLC to operate a pickleball club at 114 Lancaster Road
• Soil removal permits – Jeff Dusti
• Non‑compliance notice – 189 Great Road
• Non‑compliance notice – 30 Chapel Street

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to discuss program planning and administrative reports. The body is coordinating holiday activities and staffing coverage for the center.

• Selection of text for a bench plaque
• Staffing coverage for Scott during Christmas week
• Lunch updates regarding Bullion Bistro and Marty’s
• Planning for Thanksgiving dinner and Letters to Santa
• Alzheimer’s/Dementia training

The board approved the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting. The Shirley Cultural Committee grant was approved. The bench for the senior center is scheduled for installation in the spring.

• Approved October 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved Shirley Cultural Committee grant

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue a public hearing for a site plan on Great Road and discuss warrant articles for the November 17 Special Town Meeting. The agenda also includes administrative items such as reviewing meeting minutes and scheduling future public hearings.

• Continue Public Hearing: Jeffrey Dusti, Site Plan & Special Permit, Great Road, Lot # 72A 1.4
• Presentation of Planning Board Warrant Articles for November 17, 2025 Special Town Meeting
• Public Hearing – Pickle Ball Courts - Anthony Cardillo
• Continue Public Hearing – 25 Main Street - James Stephen
• Review of Planning Board related Legal Ad from neighboring Towns

The board approved Jeffrey Dusti’s request to build a single‑family home on Great Road lot 72A‑1.4, adopting the special permit and site‑plan with conditions. Motions to close the public hearing and to adjourn the meeting also passed unanimously. The October 15 minutes were tabled until the November 19 meeting.

• Approved Special Permit for lot 72A‑1.4 (5‑0)
• Approved Site Plan for lot 72A‑1.4 with conditions (5‑0)
• Closed the public hearing (5‑0)
• Tabled October 15, 2025 minutes until November 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting (5‑0)
• Town Planner to request addition of lot 72A‑4.12 to drainage covenant (action)
• Board required permanent fence before construction and retention of trees (condition)
• Board set boulder height requirement of 2.5‑3.5 ft along Parker Rd/Route 2A (condition)

Recreation Commission

The Shirley Recreation Commission will review and approve bills and the minutes from the previous meeting. It will receive updates from the Summer in Shirley program, Penguins Swim Team, and several youth soccer and basketball groups. The commission will consider a lease agreement for the Wilde Rd Fields and the appointment of Andrew Davis to the Ayer Shirley Youth Basketball Board. It will also discuss approaching the Highway Department about hiring and sharing staff.

• Review and approve bills
• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Lease agreement for Wilde Rd Fields
• Appointment of Andrew Davis to Ayer Shirley Youth Basketball Board
• Discuss hiring and staff sharing with Highway Department

The Recreation Commission voted to appoint Andrew Davis to the Ayer‑Shirley Basketball Board. The commission also approved Linda Cournoyer as the signatory for bills. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Appointed Andrew Davis to Ayer‑Shirley Basketball Board (all in favor)
• Approved Linda Cournoyer to sign bills (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council will meet to provide a financial update and discuss the FY2026 grant cycle. A vote may be taken regarding the review of grant applications.

• FY2026 Grant Application Review

The Cultural Council unanimously approved the minutes from February 18 and August 20, 2025. It decided to postpone creating a new SCC‑sponsored program until the next grant cycle, leaving the full grant fund available. The council reviewed 28 applications and approved funding for 13 projects, granting full amounts to 10 applicants and partial amounts to 3, distributing the entire $9,837 grant pool.

• Approved minutes from Feb 18 and Aug 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Postponed new SCC‑sponsored cultural program until next grant cycle
• Approved full funding for 10 grant applicants
• Approved partial funding for 3 grant applicants
• Allocated $9,837 in grants to 13 projects
• Noted council member terms ending 6/30/2026 and 6/30/2027

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will consider several approvals, including a request letter for MassDevelopment to rejoin the Devens Jurisdictional Framework Committee and an inter‑municipal agreement for the Community Outreach Initiative Network. The board will also schedule a joint meeting with the Board of Assessors for a tax classification hearing. Residents will hear a transportation action committee update, and the board will vote on dates for the 2026 Annual Town Election and Town Meeting.

• Approve request letter for MassDevelopment to return to the Devens Jurisdictional Framework Committee (DJFC) as an active stakeholder
• Approve inter‑municipal agreement for the Community Outreach Initiative Network (COIN) and authorize the Town Administrator as signatory
• Joint meeting with the Board of Assessors for the Tax Classification Hearing
• Vote to set Tuesday, May 5, 2026 as the date of the 2026 Annual Town Election
• Vote to set Monday, May 11, 2026 as the date of the 2026 Annual Town Meeting

The Select Board unanimously approved three Treasury Warrants totaling $805,878.39, including a $740,740.14 warrant. It also adopted FY2026 tax classification settings, denying open‑space, residential and small‑commercial exemptions. The board approved a request letter for MassDevelopment to rejoin the DJFC, and ratified the COIN inter‑municipal agreement with the Town Administrator as signatory. Election and Town Meeting dates for 2026 were set.

• Approved Treasury Warrant W26-10 Veterans $10,439.44 (2-0)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W26-10 No Check $740,740.14 (2-0)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W26-10 $54,698.81 (2-0)
• Selected minimum residential factor of 1 for FY2026 tax classification (2-0)
• Denied open space discount for FY2026 (2-0)
• Denied residential exemption for FY2026 (2-0)
• Denied small commercial exemption for FY2026 (2-0)
• Approved inter‑municipal agreement for COIN and authorized Town Administrator as signatory (2-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will approve the October 9, 2025 meeting minutes and review several reports and exemption applications. Items include the MV Excise Abatement report, solar system exemption applications, and FY2026 statutory tax exemption applications. The board will also schedule a FY2026 Tax Classification hearing to be held jointly with the Select Board. Old business notes an Open Meeting Law violation.

• Approval of regular meeting minutes from October 9, 2025
• 2023‑2025 MV Excise Abatement End of Month Report – September
• Solar System Exemption Applications filed since last meeting
• FY2026 Statutory Tax Exemption Applications
• FY2026 Tax Classification hearing to be held jointly with the Select Board

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The Enhancing Shirley Committee will first approve the minutes from its previous meeting. It will then receive updates on the electricity project for Veteran’s Row and review the status of the banner and any additional lighting needs for the Light Up Shirley/Veterans Row initiative. The Chair may address any other matters, and the meeting will end with scheduling the next session.

• Approve meeting minutes
• Updates on electricity for Veteran’s Row
• Review banner status
• Review additional needs for Light Up Shirley/Veterans Row
• Schedule next meeting

The Enhancing Shirley Committee approved its meeting minutes and voted unanimously on several holiday‑lighting items, including buying extension cords, color‑changing path lights, tote containers, thank‑you cards, and collaborating with Fab5 for a toy giveaway. The committee also authorized Kayla Rose to create a Facebook page and to contact Shop and Save for s’mores supplies. An electrical visual map was prepared for DPW and a transformer replacement was scheduled for Front Street by November 10.

• Approved committee meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Unanimously approved purchase of extension cords for Veteran’s Row and Whiteley Park
• Unanimously approved purchase of color‑changing path lights for Veteran’s Row
• Unanimously approved purchase of three smaller totes for memorial plaques
• Unanimously approved purchase of additional thank‑you cards
• Unanimously approved collaboration with Fab5 for a toy giveaway and free pretzel
• Unanimously authorized Kayla Rose to create a committee Facebook page
• Unanimously authorized Kayla Rose to contact Shop and Save for s’mores supplies

Veterans Events Committee

The committee is meeting to finalize preparations for Veterans Day 2025. Discussions include participant confirmation, event materials, and logistics for the Legion Hall.

• Confirmation of ASRHS Band participation
• Acceptance of content for 100 copies of Veterans Day 2025 handouts
• Food purchase by John Guthrie and Mike Detillion
• Legion hall set-up scheduled for 11/11/25 at 9AM

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review and approve the minutes from the October 14 meeting. It will consider several Certificate of Compliance requests for wetlands at 16 Myles Lane and 53 Walker Road. The commission will hold public hearings on wetland-related projects, including an ADA walking path at 0 Fredonian Street and continuance notices for sites on Great & Parker Roads and 0 Leominster Road. Additional items include a land donation at 36 Groton Road and a notification to New England Power Company.

• Certificate of Compliance request for 16 Myles Lane (MA DEP File #284-0323 and #284-0427) by Meadows Realty Trust
• Certificate of Compliance request for 53 Walker Road (MA DEP File #284-0362) by Hendriks / McNiff
• Public Hearing – Notice of Intent for 0 Fredonian Street (ADA walking path near wetland and floodplain)
• Public Hearing – Continuance for Great & Parker Roads (resource area delineation) by Parker Village LLC
• Land acquisition donation of approximately 30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved several actions, including three Certificates of Compliance for 16 Myles Lane, continuances of public hearings for Fredonian Street and Leominster Road, and hiring EcoTec for a peer review. It also funded forest stewardship plans for Pumpkin Brook and Rich Tree Farm, approved a donation of about 30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road, and added generator hookup costs to the Longley Acres electrical upgrade.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 16 Myles Lane (File #284-0323) (7-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 16 Myles Lane (File #284-0427) (7-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 53 Walker Road (File #284-0362) (7-0)
• Continued public hearing for Fredonian Street project to Nov 25, 2025 (7-0)
• Continued public hearing for Leominster Road project (7-0)
• Hired EcoTec to conduct peer review for Great & Parker Roads project (7-0)
• Funded Pumpkin Brook & Rich Tree Farm forest stewardship plans using Cost‑Share and Forest Fund (7-0)
• Approved donation of ~30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road (7-0)

Center Town Hall Committee

The Center Town Hall Committee will consider a $25,000 capital allocation for sill and stair repair and discuss movie rental funds. It will review several maintenance items, including office area work, lighting and electrical upgrades, and a handicap ramp. The agenda also includes a review of upcoming common events and Center Town Hall rentals, followed by any other items raised at the meeting.

• Capital Funds for Sill & Stair Repair – $25,000
• Movie Rental Funds
• Office Area maintenance
• Lighting & Electrical – Office & Storage Room
• Handicap Ramp work

Select Board

The Select Board will decide on the articles and the final warrant for a Special Town Meeting scheduled for November 17, 2025. The board will also consider a police officer appointment and a park project. The Town Administrator will provide updates on infrastructure and grant applications.

• Appointment of Alan Rice as Full Time Police Officer
• Approval of proposed Bench Project in Whitley Park
• Vote to approve the Special Town Meeting Warrant for November 17, 2025
• Updates on Front Street Complete Streets and Groton/RT 225 and Townsend Road all-way stop
• Green Communities Grant Application update

The board unanimously appointed Alan Rice as a full‑time police officer. It approved a bench project for Whitley Park and voted to create an Agricultural Committee to address livestock complaints. The board also approved the Special Town Meeting warrant for November 17, 2025 and authorized three treasury warrants.

• Appointed Alan Rice as Full Time Police Officer (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved bench project in Whitley Park (3‑0 unanimous)
• Created Agricultural Committee (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved all 15 Special Town Meeting warrant articles (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved Special Town Meeting Warrant for Nov 17, 2025 (2‑0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W26‑8 for $166,590.30 (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W26‑8 No Check for $416.73 (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W26‑7 for $2,193.77 (3‑0 unanimous)

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer‑Shirley Regional School Committee will consider its consent agenda, which includes large financial warrants for payroll and expenses. Members will vote on the School Improvement Plan for the middle school and on the second reading of the Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy. The meeting also includes a superintendent report, a discussion of the 2024‑2025 end‑of‑year report, and a vote on MASC conference resolutions.

• AP Warrant 1062 for $321,327.23 – FY26 Biweekly AP Warrant
• Payroll Warrant 8 for $1,126,782.69 – FY26 Biweekly Payroll
• School Improvement Plan for Ayer Shirley Regional Middle School – vote
• Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy – second read and vote
• MASC November 2025 Conference Resolutions – vote

Greenway Committee

The Greenway Committee will discuss updates on land protection projects and the Fredonian Park Restoration Project. The body will also receive updates from the Housing Committee and the OSRD Bylaw Working Group.

• Pumpkin Brook Link Invasive Plant Management Project update
• Forest Legacy Project update
• Fredonian Park Restoration Project signage, volunteer work, and engineering plan update
• Planning for a Shirley Trails and Paddling public information session

Recreation Commission

The Shirley Recreation Commission will review and approve bills and the minutes from the previous meeting. It will receive updates on several recreation programs, including Summer in Shirley, the Penguins Swim Team, youth soccer, and basketball. The agenda also includes discussion of a lease agreement for the Wilde Rd Fields.

• Review and approve bills
• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Lease agreement for Wilde Rd Fields
• Summer in Shirley update
• Penguins Swim Team update

Finance Committee

The Shirley Finance Committee will meet to review the Special Town Meeting warrant and approve meeting minutes. The session will also include a report from the Town Administrator.

• Review and approval of meeting minutes
• Town Administrator's Report
• Special Town Meeting Warrant Review (votes possible)
• Next meeting scheduled
• Administrative matters

The committee reviewed the year‑to‑date budget, noting revenue and expenses are on schedule. It approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Fourteen warrant articles covering budget allocations, bylaw amendments and property actions were all voted favorable.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted favorable on Article 1 – Prior years Bills
• Voted favorable on Article 2 – Roadway and Traffic Signage Funding
• Voted favorable on Article 3 – Fire Vehicle Repair Funding
• Voted favorable on Article 4 – Center Town Hall Repair Funding
• Voted favorable on Article 6 – Community Preservation Fund
• Voted favorable on Article 7 – Amend Salary Classification
• Voted favorable on Article 8 – Authorize sale of foreclosed tax‑title property

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Hazen Memorial Library Board will approve the previous month's meeting minutes, hear the treasurer's and director's reports, and receive updates on the library's budget, building, personnel, policies, programs, and Friends group. The board may consider any unforeseen business, then will review and sign invoices, set the next meeting date, and adjourn.

• Approve previous month meeting minutes
• Treasurer's report
• Director's report
• Updates on budget, building, personnel, policies, programs, and Friends
• Review and sign invoices; set next meeting date

Affordable Housing Trust

The Affordable Housing Trust will discuss amending its Articles of Foundation to raise the income eligibility benchmark from 50% to 80% of the area median income. The meeting also includes a period for public comments and a vote to approve the minutes from the July 29, 2025 session.

• Discussion of changing the target household income threshold from 50% to 80% of AMI
• Public comments period for residents
• Approval of meeting minutes from 7/29/2025

The Affordable Housing Trust voted to approve submitting a revision to Article 2 that changes the target household income threshold from 50% to 80% of area median income. The motion was made by Andree Jean-Jacques, seconded by Logan Bries, and all members voted aye. No other actions were taken.

• Approved submission of Article 2 revision to town warrant (all members voted aye)
• Adjourned meeting (all members voted aye)

Council on Aging

The Shirley Council on Aging will approve minutes from its last meeting and consider reports from the secretary and director. Members will receive updates on surveys and chair activities. The council will discuss program planning for several events, including a Two Brothers dinner, Bullion Bistro activities, a jewelry appraisal, and a Thanksgiving dinner. The meeting will conclude with any public comments before adjourning.

• Approve minutes from the previous meeting
• Director’s report
• Survey updates
• Program planning for Two Brothers dinner
• Program planning for Thanksgiving dinner

The Shirley Council on Aging approved the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes as written. The board discussed upcoming events, including a Thanksgiving dinner on November 19, a flu clinic on October 28, and a lunch at Bemis on November 8. No formal votes were taken on these items; they were discussed and assigned to members for follow-up.

• Approved September 8, 2025 meeting minutes as written
• Scheduled Thanksgiving dinner for November 19 at 11:00
• Set flu clinic for October 28 with signup sheet
• Assigned Amy to contact Shirley Deyo about past shopping for Thanksgiving
• Assigned Vicki to check if Shirley Friendship Fund can donate turkeys
• Assigned Marie to check Bullion Bistro for a future lunch
• Assigned Vicki to check Marty's on Devens for a future lunch
• Assigned Amy to follow up with Nonotuck on Alzheimer's/Dementia workshop

Stormwater Committee

The Shirley Stormwater Committee will hold a virtual workshop to review and revise draft stormwater regulations provided by town consultant Beta. The meeting agenda includes administrative matters and the review of the draft document.

• Workshop to review and revise model stormwater regulations
• Review of draft stormwater regulations (Draft 3-3-25_REV2025.10.08)
• Meeting held virtually via Zoom

The committee met virtually on October 17, 2025, with Chair Sarah Widing and member Jen McGuinness present. The meeting consisted of a workshop to review and revise the model stormwater regulations provided by the town consultant, Beta. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding a site plan and special permit for a property on Great Road and proposed changes to town zoning by-laws. The board will also address administrative matters, including the approval of meeting minutes and a legal advertisement invoice.

• Public hearing: Jeffrey Dusti, Site Plan & Special Permit, Great Road, Lot # 72A 1.4
• Public hearing: Amendments to Protective Zoning By-Laws including Marijuana Business, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and Great Road-West Mixed-Use District
• Payment of Lowell Publishing Invoice #2755445 for $145.47

The Board voted 5‑0 to approve the proposed amendments to the Town of Shirley Protective Zoning By‑Laws, including changes to Sections 11, 7.2.3, 4.18.4(b), 4.5, 2.10.8, and 3.7.1(c) with specific wording adjustments to the gross‑square‑foot threshold and prior‑use language. The same vote also adopted new definitions for Business Service Establishment, Multi‑Family Housing, and Self‑Storage Facility, and added duplexes as a permitted use in the Great Road West Mixed‑Use District. The Board approved waivers for several site‑plan items (7.5.3.c, h, m, o, r) by a 5‑0 vote and continued the public hearing on the Jeffrey Dusti special‑permit application to the November 5, 2025 meeting. Additionally, the Board unanimously approved the minutes from September 17 and October 01, 2025, approved three invoices totaling $209.85, and adjourned at 8:34 PM.

• Approved zoning bylaw amendments (Sections 11, 7.2.3, 4.18.4(b), 4.5, 2.10.8, 3.7.1(c)) (5‑0)
• Added definitions for Business Service Establishment, Multi‑Family Housing, Self‑Storage Facility (5‑0)
• Added duplexes as a special permitted use in Great Road West Mixed‑Use District (5‑0)
• Approved waiver of site‑plan items 7.5.3.c, h, m, o, r (5‑0)
• Continued Jeffrey Dusti special‑permit public hearing to Nov 5, 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved October 01, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved invoices totaling $209.85 (Lowell Publishing $145.47, WB Mason $28.33, WB Mason $36.05) (5‑0)

250th Anniversary Committee

The Shirley 250th Anniversary Committee will consider several agenda items, including approving bills to pay and reviewing the ShirleyFest event. They will also discuss Facebook page membership and posting plans, Thanksgiving Eve Reunion details, and progress on Elm tree planting and Nashoba Tech filming. The meeting will conclude with a decision on the next meeting date.

• Approve bills to pay
• Review ShirleyFest
• Discuss Thanksgiving Eve Reunion details
• Progress update on Elm tree planting
• Progress update on Nashoba Tech filming

Board of Health

The Shirley Board of Health will review trash abatement requests for two properties and discuss a variance request for a rooster. The meeting will also cover a variance request for a property on Catacunemaug Road and water quality results for a lot on Patterson Road.

• Review trash abatements for 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street
• Hear variance request for roosters on Peabody Road
• Hear variance request for Catacunemaug Road property
• Review water quality results for Patterson Road lot
• Approve meeting minutes

Conservation Commission

The commission will review and vote on several requests for Certificates of Compliance for new and existing wetlands projects at locations including 116 Squannacook Road, 24 Townsend Road, Great & Parker Roads, and others. It will also consider a donation of approximately 30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust and a tax‑title transfer of 10.70 acres at 0 Lawton Road by the Town of Shirley. Additional agenda items include updates to land‑management plans, town permit applications, and enforcement orders related to wetland and buffer‑zone work.

• Certificate of Compliance requests for new wetlands at 116 Squannacook Road (MA DEP File #284-0475 & #284-0498) and 24 Townsend Road (MA DEP Files #284-0357 & #284-0443)
• Certificate of Compliance requests for old wetlands at 7 Main Street (MA DEP File #284-0487) and 1 Meadows Lane (MA DEP File #284-0489)
• Donation of about 30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust
• Tax‑title transfer of 10.70 acres at 0 Lawton Road by the Town of Shirley
• Town permit applications: special ZBA permit for 28 Mulpus Road and comprehensive ZBA peer‑review permit for Parker Village, LLC

The Shirley Conservation Commission approved six Certificates of Compliance for previously permitted projects, including at 116 Squannacook Road, 24 Townsend Road, 7 Main Street, and 1 Meadows Lane. It also closed a public hearing and issued an Order of Conditions for 134 Groton Road, and approved an Order of Conditions for 6 Oakes Landing. Two public hearings were continued to October 28, 2025: one for a resource area delineation at Great & Parker Roads and one for a single-family home at O Leominster Road. The commission also approved hiring a consultant for forest stewardship plans and an electrical upgrade at Longley Acres.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 116 Squannacook Road (MA DEP #284-0475) (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 116 Squannacook Road (MA DEP #284-0498) (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 24 Townsend Road (MA DEP #284-0357) (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 24 Townsend Road (MA DEP #284-0443) (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 7 Main Street (MA DEP #284-0487) (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 1 Meadows Lane (MA DEP #284-0489) (5-0)
• Closed public hearing and approved Order of Conditions for 134 Groton Road (5-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 6 Oakes Landing (5-0)

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The Enhancing Shirley Committee will approve the previous meeting minutes and receive updates on electricity for Veteran’s Row. It will review the status of a banner and consider any additional needs for the Light Up Shirley/Veterans Row project. The Chair may raise any other matters, and the next meeting will be scheduled.

• Approve meeting minutes
• Updates on electricity for Veteran’s Row
• Review banner status
• Review additional needs for Light Up Shirley/Veterans Row
• Any additional matters deemed necessary by the Chair

The Enhancing Shirley Committee approved its meeting minutes and voted unanimously to purchase plaques, a tablecloth, candy‑cane tape, and black stakes for the holiday lighting displays. The committee accepted a donated banner from J&S Printing with the condition that no marketing appear on its front. The next meeting was scheduled for October 23, 2025.

• Approved committee meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of plaques from High Caliber Engraving (unanimous; Candace recused)
• Approved purchase of tablecloth for M&M Tree (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of candy‑cane tape for stakes (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 3‑foot black stakes for plaques (unanimous)
• Accepted banner donation from J&S Printing with no front‑side marketing (unanimous)
• Scheduled next committee meeting for October 23, 2025

Board of Assessors

The Shirley Board of Assessors will approve the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes and review several tax‑related reports and applications, including MV excise abatement and solar system exemptions. New business includes setting the FY2026 tax classification hearing schedule and addressing AP5 system issues for upcoming submissions to the Department of Revenue. Old business covers an Open Meeting Law violation, a matter concerning 29 Clark Road (23 B 11), and the MV Excise Commitment 4.

• Approval of regular meeting minutes from September 4, 2025
• Review of 2023‑2025 MV Excise Abatement End‑of‑Month Report – September
• Discussion of FY2026 statutory tax exemption applications
• Setting the FY2026 tax classification hearing schedule
• Old business: Open Meeting Law violation and 29 Clark Road (23 B 11) issue

The Board accepted the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved and signed a series of reports and forms, including the MV Excise Abatement report, solar system exemption applications, FY2026 statutory tax exemption applications, bills payable to Catalis Inc. totaling $8,187.50, the quarterly stipend payroll sheet, two motor‑vehicle commitment warrants, and two Chapter 61 forestry classification tax liens. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted September 4, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Al, seconded by EH and DW)
• Approved and signed multiple reports and forms, including MV Excise report, solar exemptions (5), FY2026 tax exemption applications, Catalis invoices ($8,187.50), payroll sheet, motor‑vehicle commitments 04 & 05, and Chapter 61 forestry tax liens (2)
• Moved to adjourn; motion passed (motion by Al, seconded by EH)

Stormwater Committee

The Stormwater Committee will hold a workshop to review and revise model stormwater regulations provided by the town consultant, Beta. The meeting includes a review of MS4 regulatory requirements and draft stormwater regulations.

• Workshop to review and revise model stormwater regulations from consultant Beta
• Review of MS4 Regulatory Requirements regarding illicit discharge and construction site runoff
• Discussion of post-construction stormwater management for sites disturbing one or more acres
• Review of draft Stormwater Regulations including Land Disturbance Permit procedures

The committee met virtually on Oct 8, 2025. Members reviewed the draft stormwater regulations from consultant Beta. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer‑Shirley Regional School Committee meeting includes routine items, a consent agenda with several warrants totaling over $2.5 million, and new business items such as a presentation on Spring 2025 MCAS accountability, FY25 budget closeout, a vote to increase building rental fees, and a discussion of a middle‑school pathway policy. The committee will decide on the fee increase for non‑resident and for‑profit groups using school facilities. They will also review payroll and AP warrants and consider the middle‑school pathway exploration policy.

• Vote to increase building rental fees for athletic fields and auditoriums for non‑resident and for‑profit organizations
• Spring 2025 MCAS accountability presentation by Assistant Superintendent
• FY25 budget closeout presentation by Director of Finance
• Review and approval of multiple AP and payroll warrants (e.g., AP Warrant 1044 for $572,097.28, Payroll Warrant 7 for $1,126,191.74)
• First read and possible vote on Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy

Recreation Commission

The commission will review and approve bills and the minutes from the previous meeting. It will receive updates on summer programs, the Penguins Swim Team, youth soccer and basketball activities, and adult pickup basketball. The agenda includes a lease agreement for the Wilde Rd Fields. An executive session will consider a hearing on an ASYS coach and decide on the coach’s suspension.

• Review and approve bills
• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Lease agreement for Wilde Rd Fields
• ASYS Coach hearing and decision on suspension
• Updates on summer programs and youth sports

The commission approved JD's nomination of LC to sign bills and LC's nomination of JD to sign minutes, each with unanimous support. Members approved KB's use of his personal equipment for field maintenance and his permission to take that equipment home for cleaning and repairs, with no objections. The board unanimously approved a temporary break to hold a joint executive session with the ASyS Board for a coach hearing, and also unanimously approved reopening and adjourning the meeting.

• Approved JD nomination of LC to sign bills (unanimous)
• Approved LC nomination of JD to sign minutes (unanimous)
• Approved KB use of personal equipment for field maintenance (no objection)
• Approved KB permission to bring equipment home for cleaning/repairs (no objection)
• Approved temporary break for joint executive session on coach hearing (unanimous)
• Approved reopening of the recreation meeting (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of the recreation meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and approve the minutes from the previous meeting. It will hear a report from the Town Administrator and updates from the Housing and School Committees. The committee will also discuss staff holiday party plans and any additional administrative matters.

• Meeting minutes review and approval
• Town Administrator’s Report
• Holiday Party for Staff
• Housing Committee Update
• School Committee Update

The Finance Committee reviewed year‑to‑date expenses, capital funding needs, traffic‑calming projects, a housing affordability trust, and the regional school budget structure. The committee agreed to recommend a budget committee for the Ayer/Shirley regional school and noted that holiday party costs were too high, so no party will be held. No votes or formal approvals were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 8:34 p.m.

• Agreed to recommend a budget committee for the Ayer/Shirley regional school (no vote tally recorded)
• Determined holiday party costs were too high; no party will be held (no vote tally recorded)
• Motion to adjourn passed at 8:34 p.m. (no vote tally recorded)

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will discuss three agenda items that may require votes: a proposed safety zone in Shirley Center presented by the Shirley Transportation Action Committee, approval of the Opi oid Settlement funds project RFP and MOU, and a vote to close the Special Town Meeting Warrant for November 17, 2025. The board will also receive reports from the Town Administrator on various town projects and events. After public comments, the board will approve treasury warrants and adopt the minutes from the July 28 and September 8 meetings.

• Proposed Safety Zone in Shirley Center – Shirley Transportation Action Committee
• Opi oid Settlement funds project – RFP and MOU approval
• Vote to close the Special Town Meeting Warrant for November 17, 2025
• Approval of Treasury Warrants
• Approval of Meeting Minutes (7/28/2025 and 9/8/2025)

The board voted unanimously to approve a proposed safety zone in the old Shirley Center. It also approved pooling the town's opioid settlement funds to hire a regional consultant. Additional actions included closing the Special Town Meeting warrant for November 17, 2025, and approving three treasury warrants totaling $262,874.66.

• Approved proposed safety zone in old Shirley Center (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved pooling of opioid settlement funds to hire regional consultant (3-0 unanimous)
• Closed Special Town Meeting warrant for Nov 17, 2025 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W26-7 for $252,354.66 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W26-7 No Check for $209.91 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W26-7 Veterans for $10,510.60 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved July 28, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved September 8, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0 unanimous)

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The committee will review updates regarding electricity for Veteran’s Row and the status of banners. Members will also discuss additional needs for the Light Up Shirley Project.

• Electricity updates for Veteran’s Row
• Banner status review
• Light Up Shirley Project needs

The committee agreed to obtain an Enhancing Shirley Committee banner for the November 30 Tree Lighting event and voted unanimously to spend $5 on a blank for M&M Tree to use. Michelle will check with a local print shop about a banner donation and report back at the next meeting. The committee did not approve any funding for the required transformer replacement, which National Grid estimates will cost $5,000‑$6,000.

• Approved $5 expenditure for a blank for M&M Tree (unanimous vote)
• Agreed to obtain an Enhancing Shirley Committee banner for the Tree Lighting event
• Did not approve funding for transformer replacement (estimated $5k‑$6k)

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee will review status updates on the town’s Housing Production Plan, including deadline information from the Planning Board. Members will also discuss Accessory Dwelling Units, the Housing Trust, and outreach flyers. Research updates on Habitat for Humanity and inclusionary zoning will be presented. No formal votes are listed; the meeting focuses on information sharing and planning.

• Housing Production Plan update (Stuart and Bonnie)
• Accessory Dwelling Units discussion (Bonnie and Asa)
• Housing Trust update (Stuart)
• Habitat for Humanity research update (Liz)
• Inclusionary Zoning research update (Stuart)

Planning Board

The Shirley Planning Board will consider an ANR application for Patterson Road from Jedidiah Provost. An informal discussion will cover pickle ball courts at BoomX presented by Anthony Cardillo. The board will finalize the text for Section 7.2.1 Applicability, Site Plan Review. Administrative items include approving September 17, 2025 minutes, discussing stormwater regulations, and setting the next meeting date.

• ANR: Patterson Road – application by Jedidiah Provost
• Informal discussion of pickle ball courts at BoomX (Anthony Cardillo)
• Finalize text for Section 7.2.1 Applicability, Site Plan Review
• Approve and sign meeting minutes from September 17, 2025
• Stormwater regulations discussion

The board unanimously endorsed ANR Plan No. 25‑110B for the Patterson Road lot split. It also approved new wording for Section 7.2.1 of the Protective Zoning By‑law. Approval of the September 15, 2025 minutes was postponed, and the agenda for the October 15 meeting was set, including two public hearings.

• Endorsed ANR Plan No. 25‑110B (vote 4‑0)
• Adopted revised wording for Section 7.2.1 of the Protective Zoning By‑law
• Deferred approval of September 15, 2025 meeting minutes to next meeting
• Scheduled October 15, 2025 agenda items: Great Road site plan & zoning by‑law amendments

Veterans Events Committee

The committee will select a Master of Ceremonies, consider suggestions for a keynote speaker, develop a handout for Veterans Day 2025, and decide on food and its providers. These items are being discussed to prepare for the upcoming Veterans Day event.

• Identify the Master of Ceremonies
• Gather suggestions for the keynote speaker
• Create a Veterans Day 2025 handout
• Identify food for the event and the preparers

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The committee will discuss design plans for Veterans Row and Whiteley Park and review event needs for Veterans Day and the November 30 tree lighting. Members will also review the balance sheet and fundraising updates.

• Design review of Veterans Row and Whiteley Park
• Planning for Veterans Day (Nov 11) and Tree Lighting (Nov 30)
• Review of fundraising updates and balance sheet
• Electricity updates for Veteran's Row
• Review of Light Up Shirley Project needs

The Enhancing Shirley Committee unanimously approved paying the Wintergreen invoice for tree lighting ($10,535.63) and the Amazon invoice ($484.37). It also voted unanimously to order 17 additional trees from Wintergreen Co. at $551.55 and to reimburse Michelle for a weather‑seal purchase. A majority vote set future meetings for Thursdays at 6:30 p.m., with the next meeting scheduled for Oct 9, 2025.

• Approved payment of Wintergreen bill $10,535.63 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of Amazon bill $484.37 (unanimous)
• Approved order of 17 additional trees from Wintergreen Co. at $551.55 (unanimous)
• Approved reimbursement to Michelle for weather‑seal (~$25 per gallon) (unanimous)
• Approved 16" stakes for Memorial Veteran plaques (unanimous)
• Approved verbatim donor/sponsor/volunteer acknowledgment on town website (unanimous)
• Majority vote to hold future meetings on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.
• Approved to wait on banner donation before purchasing (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review and approve minutes from March 25 and September 9, 2025, and consider accounts payable items including a $30 magazine subscription and a $600 MACC conference reimbursement. Commissioners will consider three Certificate of Compliance requests for wetland sites at 7 Main Street, 24 Townsend Road, and 1 Meadows Lane, and will hold public hearing notices for projects at 134 Groton Road and 6 Oakes Landing. Additional items include an enforcement order for 125 Benjamin Road, a 30.24‑acre donation at 36 Groton Road, and updates on land management and other conservation activities.

• Approve $30 magazine subscription and $600 MACC Fall Conference reimbursement
• Certificate of Compliance requests for 7 Main Street, 24 Townsend Road, and 1 Meadows Lane
• Public hearing notice for 134 Groton Road (detached garage and driveway extension)
• Enforcement order for 125 Benjamin Road (wetland vegetation disturbance)
• Land acquisition donation of 30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes, renewed a $30 Northern Woodlands magazine subscription, and approved a Certificate of Compliance for 24 Townsend Road. It continued the public hearing for 134 Groton Road, closed the hearing for 6 Oakes Landing, approved a sign for 36 Groton Road, and authorized the sale of about 10.7 acres of town‑owned land to the state for conservation. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved March 25, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved September 9, 2025 meeting minutes (vote not recorded)
• Approved renewal of Northern Woodlands magazine subscription ($30) (vote not recorded)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 24 Townsend Road (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 134 Groton Road (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for 6 Oakes Landing (5-0)
• Approved sign for 36 Groton Road as “Gilbert A. Dupree Conservation Area” (5-0)
• Authorized sale of ~10.7 acres of town land to the Commonwealth for conservation (5-0)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review bills, approve minutes, and receive updates on various youth sports programs and the Summer in Shirley camp. The body will also discuss a lease agreement for Wilde Rd Fields.

• Review and approve bills
• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Summer in Shirley camp update
• Penguins Swim Team update
• Lease agreement for Wilde Rd Fields

The Recreation Commission unanimously approved Katie Aponte as the signatory for bills and Linda Cournoyer as the signatory for minutes. No other substantive actions were taken. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved Katie Aponte to sign bills (all in favor)
• Approved Linda Cournoyer to sign minutes (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board meeting will consider appointing Michelle O’Connor to the Conservation Commission. The Town Administrator will report on the NVTHS School Committee opening, the Special Town Meeting schedule, and the Front Street Complete Streets update. The board will also vote on Treasury Warrants and approve the July 28, 2025 meeting minutes. Residents may offer public comments on any topic.

• Appointment of Michelle O’Connor to the Conservation Commission
• Town Administrator report: NVTHS School Committee Opening
• Town Administrator report: Special Town Meeting Schedule
• Town Administrator report: Front Street Complete Streets Update
• Approval of Treasury Warrants

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a site plan and change in use for 25 Main Street. Members will also work to finalize article text for an upcoming town meeting.

• Public hearing: James Stephen, Marc Dale LLC, 25 Main Street, Site Plan/Change in Use
• Finalization of article text for town meeting
• Payment of $145.47 to Lowell Publishing Invoice #274018 for 25 Main Street legal ad

The Planning Board approved waivers for several Section 7.5 requirements of the take‑out restaurant application at 25 Main Street, voting 5‑0 on each motion. It also waived the environmental, traffic, and community impact analyses. The Board voted to continue the public hearing to November 19, 2025. No other substantive votes were recorded.

• Waived Section 7.5.1.k discussion of Master Plan compliance (5‑0)
• Waived multiple Section 7.5.3 requirements (title block, locus plan, surface treatment, topography, open space, compliance table) (5‑0)
• Waived Sections 7.5.6, 7.5.7, 7.5.8 analyses of environmental, traffic, and community impacts (5‑0)
• Continued the public hearing to November 19, 2025 (5‑0)

Affordable Housing Trust

The Affordable Housing Trust will review the status of its funds. Trustees will discuss rental assistance program requirements and applications, comparing programs in Ayer, Littleton, and Boxborough. They will also examine an outreach flyer and consider amending the Articles of Foundation to serve households earning up to 80% of area median income instead of 50%.

• Status of funds (presented by Logan)
• Discussion of rental assistance program requirements with review of neighboring towns (Ayer, Littleton, Boxborough)
• Discussion of rental assistance application for Shirley with review of neighboring towns (Ayer, Littleton, Boxborough)
• Review of outreach flyer
• Proposed change to Articles of Foundation to raise income eligibility from 50% to 80% AMI

The Affordable Housing Trust approved the minutes from the July 29 meeting. The committee decided to model Shirley's rental assistance applications after Ayer's format and to use a rolling review with a wait list for eligible applicants. Logan Bries was tasked with obtaining Ayer's application document, and Stuart Sears will prepare a draft application for the committee. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved July 29 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Decided to model rental assistance applications after Ayer's format and use rolling review with wait list
• Assigned Logan Bries to obtain Ayer's application MS Word document
• Assigned Stuart Sears to prepare application for committee review
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed unanimously)

Greenway Committee

The Greenway Committee will review updates on land protection projects, including a potential 30-acre donation at 36 Groton Road and a 10.70-acre parcel at 0 Lawton Rd. The meeting also covers the Fredonian Park Restoration Project, housing legislative impacts, and a public information session for Shirley Trails. No final votes or binding decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Update on 36 Groton Road (102-A-3) / GAD Realty Trust / ~30 acre donation / MA DFG CR
• Update on 0 Lawton Rd. (100-A-5) / 10.70 acres / Town of Shirley Tax Title / potential sale to MA DFG
• Update on NSN Wild & Scenic Rivers Stewardship Council 2025 Community Grant Award / Pumpkin Brook Link Invasive Plant Management Project
• Update on Fredonian Park Restoration Project signage, volunteer work, and engineering plan
• Discussion of State Legislative Actions to Streamline Housing Production and Environmental Impacts

250th Anniversary Committee

The 250th Anniversary Committee will hear reports on its official member list and on the revolving gift fund. Members will view the donation box, get an update on the tablecloth order, and discuss Thanksgiving Eve Reunion details and ShirleyFest signage. The group will also consider seating at the ShirleyFest table, any additional ideas, and set the date for the next meeting.

• Report on official committee members list
• Report on revolving gift fund
• View donation box and discuss needed items
• Tablecloth order update
• Discuss Thanksgiving Eve Reunion details

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees will approve the previous month's meeting minutes, receive the treasurer's and director's reports, and get updates on the budget, building, personnel, policies, programs, and the Friends group. After the updates, the board will review and sign invoices, set the date for the next meeting, and then adjourn.

• Approve previous month meeting minutes
• Treasurer's report
• Director's report
• Updates: budget, building, personnel, policies, programs, Friends
• Review and sign invoices; set next meeting date

Finance Committee

The Shirley Finance Committee will meet to review meeting minutes, receive a report from the Town Administrator, and discuss preliminary discussions for the Town and School budgets. The agenda also includes a report on the 'Enhance Shirley' project and an administrative holiday party.

• Review and approval of meeting minutes
• Town Administrator's Report
• Preliminary discussion of Town Budget
• Preliminary discussion of School Budget
• Report on Enhance Shirley Update

The committee approved the September 9 meeting minutes. Members discussed hiring a new assistant accountant and the upcoming holiday party, but no motions were adopted. The next Finance Committee meeting is set for October 7, 2025. No other formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes

Conservation Commission

The Shirley Conservation Commission will consider several wetland compliance requests, enforcement orders, and public‑hearing notices. It will also discuss a land donation of approximately 30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road. Additional items include a special Fall Town Meeting warrant article proposal and updates on land‑management and grant activities.

• Certificate of Compliance request for 24 Townsend Road (MA DEP File #284‑0493)
• Certificate of Compliance request for 1 Meadows Lane (MA DEP File #284‑0489)
• Enforcement Order for vegetation disturbance at 125 Benjamin Road
• Public Hearing Notice of Intent for a detached garage at 134 Groton Road
• Donation of ~30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust

The Conservation Commission approved its meeting minutes and an enforcement order for 125 Benjamin Road. It voted to continue three public hearings—134 Groton Road, 6 Oakes Landing, and 0 Leominster Road—until the September 23 meeting. The commission also approved recommending Michelle O'Connor for appointment and authorized payment of registration fees for four members to attend the 2025 MACC Fall Conference.

• Approved meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Enforcement Order for 125 Benjamin Road (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 134 Groton Road to Sep 23 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 6 Oakes Landing to Sep 23 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 0 Leominster Road to Sep 23 (4-0)
• Recommended Michelle O'Connor appointment to Select Board (5-0)
• Approved payment of MACC Fall Conference fees for four members (5-0)
• Decided not to submit any Warrant Articles for the 2025 Fall Special Town Meeting

Board of Health

The Board of Health will consider a variance request from GRAZ Engineering for 26 Peabody Road. Members will also discuss the regulation of roosters and well regulations in town.

• Variance request for 26 Peabody Road
• Discussion of roosters in town
• Discussion of well regulation
• Review of trash abatements
• Non-compliance updates for 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street

The Board approved a variance allowing out‑of‑season soil testing for the sewage disposal system at 26 Peabody Road. Trash abatements were reviewed and approved. The Board accepted the July 15 and August 12, 2025 meeting minutes. A public hearing was set for the next meeting to consider amending the livestock regulation to ban roosters, and a septic permit for new construction on Patterson Road was signed.

• Approved variance for out‑of‑season sewage testing at 26 Peabody Road (unanimous)
• Approved trash abatements (unanimous)
• Accepted July 15 and August 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Set public hearing to consider rooster‑ban amendment (unanimous)
• Approved septic permit for new construction on Patterson Road (unanimous)
• Closed the meeting (unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The Shirley Recreation Commission will review and approve bills and the minutes from the previous meeting. It will discuss appointing a new debit card holder. Updates will be given on Summer in Shirley, the Penguins Swim Team, youth soccer and basketball programs, and adult pickup basketball. The commission will also consider a lease agreement for the Wilde Rd Fields.

• Review and approve bills
• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Discuss new debit card holder
• Lease agreement for Wilde Rd Fields
• Updates on Summer in Shirley, Penguins Swim Team, youth soccer and basketball programs, and adult pickup basketball

The commission approved bills 8126/25 with unanimous support. Members nominated Linda Cournoyer to sign the bills and Jonathan Deforge to sign the minutes, both approved unanimously. The board decided to maintain the current referee pay at the Parker Rd fields and appointed Jonathan Deforge as the new debit‑card holder. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved bills 8126/25 (unanimous)
• Nominated LC to sign bills; motion passed unanimously
• Nominated JD to sign minutes; motion passed unanimously
• Kept referee pay at Parker Rd fields the same (no vote recorded)
• Appointed JD as new debit‑card holder (no vote recorded)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will meet on September 8, 2025, to open a National Grid pole hearing and discuss several contracts and reports. Items include approvals for a Council on Aging transportation service contract, electrical work for Veterans Row, and a new electric aggregation program rate. The Town Administrator will provide updates on local projects and initiatives.

• Open National Grid Pole Hearing for September 8, 2025
• Approval of Council on Aging MART Transportation Service Contract
• Approval of Electrical work proposed for Veterans Row – Enhancing Shirley Committee
• Approval of new Electric Aggregation Program Rate
• Special Town Meeting Warrant opened for November 17, 2025, closing October 6, 2025

The board approved three Treasury warrants totaling $1,190,641.22. It also approved a new transportation contract for the Council on Aging, electrical work on Veterans Row, and a 36‑month Dynergy electricity aggregation program at 13.80 cents per kWh. Additional motions opened and closed a National Grid pole hearing and opened the Special Town Meeting warrant.

• Approved Council on Aging MART Transportation Service Contract (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved electrical work for Veterans Row by Enhancing Shirley (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved 36‑month Dynergy aggregation program at 13.80 cents/kWh (3-0 unanimous)
• Opened and closed National Grid pole hearing for Ayer Road (3-0 unanimous)
• Opened Special Town Meeting warrant (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury warrant W26-5 for $188,950.20 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury warrant W26-5 Veterans for $8,571.68 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury warrant W26-5 No Check for $993,119.34 (3-0 unanimous)

Select Board

The Shirley Board of Selectmen will hold a public hearing to consider National Grid’s request to install one utility pole on Ayer Road. Residents may attend in person or submit written comments before the hearing.

• National Grid requests permission to install 1 utility pole on Ayer Road
• Public hearing scheduled for September 8, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. in Conference Room A/B at Town Offices

Council on Aging

The Shirley Council on Aging will meet to approve minutes from its last meeting, hear a director’s report introducing a new staff member, discuss survey results, and plan upcoming programs like a Two Brothers dinner. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approve minutes from last meeting
• Director’s Report – Welcome Amy
• Survey discussion
• Program Planning: Two Brothers dinner

The board approved the August 11, 2025 meeting minutes with a small modification. Members discussed a new bench donation from the Ayer Rotary Club and ideas for a plaque. Several members were assigned follow‑up tasks for upcoming events such as an ice‑cream social, lunches, a Thanksgiving dinner, a jewelry appraisal, a tour, and a comedy show.

• Approved August 11, 2025 meeting minutes (with small modification)

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The committee will attend and provide a presentation to the American Legion. No deliberations are expected and no votes will be taken during this meeting.

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The Enhancing Shirley Committee is meeting to review design plans for Whitely Park and the Light Up Shirley project. The body will also discuss fundraising, raffle ideas, and electricity for Veteran’s Row.

• Review of Whitely Park design with input from Joey Whitehouse of Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting
• Updates on electricity for Veteran’s Row
• Review of fundraising updates and balance sheet
• Planning for Light Up Shirley Project needs

The Enhancing Shirley Committee approved the previous meeting minutes. Members agreed on several actions for the November 30 holiday lighting, including ordering a new bow sample for mini trees, using a whisky barrel for tree height, drilling holes in plaques, investigating a banner cost under $50, and coordinating a fire pit, tent, and food truck. The next meeting is scheduled for September 25, 2025.

• Approved prior meeting minutes
• Agreed to order new sample of bow as replacement for mini trees
• Decided to drill holes in plaques rather than use epoxy
• Agreed to use a whisky barrel to add height to 3‑foot trees
• Will investigate costs for an Enhancing Shirley banner (target under $50)
• Kayla to follow up with Fire Chief Cooley on permits for fire pit and propane cider heater
• Committee to use available tents for the tree lighting event
• Michelle to contact local printers for banner cost comparison

Board of Assessors

The Shirley Board of Assessors will meet to approve minutes from August and review several tax-related items, including motor vehicle excise abatements, solar system exemption applications, and statutory tax exemption applications for FY2026. New business includes testing a billing file and reviewing a motor vehicle excise commitment.

• Approve August 2025 meeting minutes
• Review 2025 MV Excise Abatement End of Month Report – August
• Consider Solar System Exemption Applications filed since last meeting
• Review FY2026 Statutory Tax Exemption Applications
• Test billing file between AP5 and Vadar

The Board of Assessors accepted the August 7, 2025 meeting minutes after a motion and second. The board approved the 2025 MV Excise Abatement End‑of‑Month Report for August and the FY2026 statutory tax exemption applications listed under Clauses 22, 22E, and 22D. The meeting was adjourned at 1:46 p.m. following a motion to adjourn.

• Accepted August 7, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved 2025 MV Excise Abatement End‑of‑Month Report – August
• Approved FY2026 Statutory Tax Exemption Applications (Clauses 22, 22E, 22D)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:46 p.m.

Housing Committee

The Shirley Housing Committee meets to approve past meeting minutes, check in on housing projects like the Housing Production Plan, and discuss updates on affordable housing goals and new initiatives such as Complete Streets and ADUs. Members will also review intake forms from neighboring towns and plan outreach efforts.

• Review and vote on August meeting minutes
• Housing Production Plan update with deadlines from Planning Board
• Affordable Housing Unit Count review (current vs. goal)
• Discuss flyer distribution for housing initiatives
• Review Littleton, Boxboro, Ayer intake forms

Conservation Commission

The Shirley Conservation Commission will review new and old wetlands business, including requests for certificates of compliance and a public hearing for a single-family home near a riverfront area. The meeting will also discuss land donations, conservation restrictions, and updates on local conservation projects like Longley Acres and the Greenway Committee.

• Request for Certificate of Compliance for 24 Townsend Road (MA DEP File #284-0493)
• Request for Certificate of Compliance for 1 Meadows Lane (MA DEP File #284-0489)
• Public hearing for single-family home at 0 Leominster Road near Riverfront Area
• Donation of 30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road to Shirley Conservation Commission
• Enforcement order for Beach Nourishment Project at 6 Oaks Landing

The Conservation Commission approved its meeting minutes and voted to continue two Certificate of Compliance requests—24 Townsend Road to Sept. 23, 2025 and 1 Meadows Lane to Oct. 14, 2025. It also moved the public hearing for 0 Leominster Road to Sept. 9, 2025 and decided not to staff a table at this year’s ShirleFest. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting minutes (5-0)
• Continued Certificate of Compliance for 24 Townsend Rd to Sept 23 2025 (5-0)
• Continued Certificate of Compliance for 1 Meadows Ln to Oct 14 2025 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 0 Leominster Rd to Sept 9 2025 (5-0)
• Decided not to host a table at ShirleFest (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will vote on appointments to town committees and the cultural council, approve the sale of land to the state, and consider a contract with Thrive Cannabis.

• Appointment of Donna DiRusso to the cultural council
• Appointment of Christine Roy as Assistant Town Accountant
• Approval of sale of land to MA Fish and Wildlife on Lawton Rd
• Approval of terms presented by Thrive Cannabis regarding HCA
• Vote to modify electrical box on the Center Town Common

The Select Board unanimously approved the sale of the O Lawton Road parcel to the Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife Division for $26,276. The board also approved the terms for renegotiating Thrive Cannabis’s host community agreement and declared three town vehicles surplus. Additional actions included appointing new members to town committees, modifying an electrical box on the Center Town Common, and approving two treasury warrants for $86,099.09 and $594.67.

• Appointed Christine Roy as Assistant Town Accountant (3-0 unanimous)
• Appointed Donna DiRusso to the Cultural Council (3-0 unanimous)
• Appointed Brian Hildebrant to the Enhancing Shirley Committee (2-0, 1 abstain)
• Declared three vehicles (2007 Ford 500, 2008 Ford Crown Victoria, 2016 Ford Explorer) surplus (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Thrive Cannabis terms to renegotiate HCA with $25,000 payment (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved sale of O Lawton Road to MA Fish and Wildlife for $26,276 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved modification of electrical box on Center Town Common (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrants W26-4 for $86,099.09 and W26-4 No Check for $594.67 (3-0 unanimous)

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The Enhancing Shirley Committee will meet to discuss the design for Whitely Park and the Light Up Shirley Project. The body will also review an electrician quote and the committee's balance sheet.

• Review of design for Whitely Park
• Review of electrician quote
• Review of balance sheet
• Updates on Veteran’s Row
• Tree Lighting itinerary

The committee voted to appoint Kayla Rose as the new Vice Chair after two members stepped down. Meeting minutes were approved. The committee unanimously decided to use the ten bows for the black street lamps, remove dates from plaques, add a "Donated by Jurga Family" plaque, and keep the lighted trees in the front three quadrants of Whiteley Park.

• Kayla Rose appointed Vice Chair (vote not specified)
• Approved Committee meeting minutes (vote not specified)
• Use ten bows for black street lamps (unanimous)
• Remove date/year on plaques (vote not specified)
• Add "Donated by Jurga Family" plaque (unanimous)
• Keep lighted trees in front three quadrants of Whiteley Park (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Shirley Planning Board will hold a public meeting to discuss zoning amendments ahead of a November town vote, draft stormwater regulations with the Stormwater Committee, and review an ADU bylaw response. The board will also address administrative matters like approving meeting minutes and legal comments for neighboring towns.

• Discuss ADU By-law response
• Draft and adopt Stormwater Regulations with Stormwater Committee
• Update on zoning amendments for November 17th Special Town Meeting
• Review Planning Board legal comments for neighboring towns
• Approve and sign meeting minutes from August 06, 2025

The Planning Board voted 5-0 to let the Stormwater Committee coordinate a draft of the town's stormwater regulations. The Board also approved the August 6 minutes (5-0) and cancelled the September 3 meeting unless an ANR is received (5-0). The meeting was adjourned unanimously (5-0).

• Authorized Stormwater Committee to draft stormwater regulations (5-0)
• Approved August 6, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Cancelled September 3, 2025 meeting unless an ANR is received (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (5-0)

250th Anniversary Committee

The 250th Anniversary Committee will review and vote on a logo proposal and a tablecloth proposal. The agenda also includes reviewing and editing a handout proposal and setting a date for the next meeting.

• Vote on logo proposal
• Vote on tablecloth proposal
• Review and edit handout proposal
• Set date for next meeting

Stormwater Committee

The Stormwater Committee will meet to discuss 2025 MS4 permit requirements with consultants from Beta, Inc. The meeting also includes time for administrative matters.

• Discussion of 2025 MS4 Permit Requirements with Beta, Inc. Consultants

The committee reviewed the EPA notice of non‑compliance for the NPDES MS4 program and identified missing stormwater regulations and annual reports. Members agreed that Bryan Sawyer will meet with Dave Schwartz on August 25 to plan compliance actions. The group will draft a schedule and budget for the next two years and the Conservation Commission will gather outreach materials.

• Bryan Sawyer to meet with Dave Schwartz on 8/25 to discuss compliance plan (scheduled)
• Committee to draft schedule and budget for compliance activities for the next two years (agreed)
• Conservation Commission to gather public outreach and education materials (agreed)

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council will discuss the 2025 Herzog Grant for the MCI program and financial updates. The body will also review local guidelines for grant applicants and an online survey for the 2026 grant cycle.

• 2025 Herzog Grant for MCI program
• Review of Council Priorities for 2026 grant applicants
• Online Survey for 2026 grant cycle

The council tasked Donna DiRusso with leading the creation of a Cultural Council Survey. The next meeting was set for November 4, 2025. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 p.m. was made and seconded.

• Assign Donna DiRusso to lead creation of Cultural Council Survey
• Schedule next meeting for November 4, 2025
• Adjourn meeting at 8:30 p.m. by motion

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review requests from the Shirley Historical Society. The meeting includes standard reports from the treasurer and director, as well as updates on the library budget and personnel.

• Review of requests from Shirley Historical Society
• Budget and building updates
• Personnel and policy updates
• Review and signing of invoices

Greenway Committee

The committee is meeting to receive updates on land protection projects and the Fredonian Park Restoration Project. Members will also discuss the Open Space and Recreation Plan and a funding request for trailhead parking engineering.

• Pumpkin Brook Link Invasive Plant Management Project update
• Fredonian Park Restoration Project signage and engineering plan update
• Conservation Commission CPC funding request for trailhead parking engineering study
• Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) 2022 Update
• ShirleyFest event on September 13th

Center Town Hall Committee

The Center Town Hall Committee will meet to approve minutes, review financials including $25,000 allocated for sill and stair repairs, and discuss maintenance needs such as office area upkeep and electrical upgrades. No major decisions are expected beyond routine procedural items.

• Capital funds approved for sill and stair repair at Center Town Hall - $25,000.00

Board of Health

The Shirley Board of Health will review well test results and septic variance requests at specific addresses, discuss a livestock permit application, and approve trash abatement invoices. The meeting also includes ongoing non-compliance reviews and administrative matters.

• Well test review at 41 Squannacook Road
• Septic upgrade variance requests at 43 Groton Road
• Livestock permit application discussion at 53 Townsend Road
• Approval of $138,072.86 trash abatement invoices for FY26 Q1
• Non-compliance reviews at 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street

The Board approved the submitted trash abatements and signed the Solid Waste & Recycling Commitment for $138,072.86. It approved all requested variances for the septic system at 43 Groton Road and approved the livestock application for 53 Townsend Road. The Board agreed to follow the court order for repairs at 67 Front Street and will place a rooster‑ban proposal on the agenda for the next meeting. A motion to close the meeting was voted in favor.

• Approved submitted trash abatements
• Signed Solid Waste & Recycling Commitment ($138,072.86)
• Approved all variances for 43 Groton Road septic system
• Approved livestock application for 53 Townsend Road
• Agreed to follow court order for repairs at 67 Front Street
• Deferred rooster‑ban proposal to next Board meeting
• Motion to close meeting passed (members voted in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Shirley Conservation Commission meets to review new and old wetlands business, including requests for compliance certificates, a public hearing continuance, and enforcement orders. The agenda also covers land management updates, land acquisition proposals, and Greenway Committee activities.

• Certificate of Compliance requests for 24 Townsend Road (MA DEP File #284-0493) and 1 Meadows Lane (MA DEP File #284-0489)
• Public Hearing continuance for 27 Hazen Road (Notice of Intent for fence installation and tree cutting)
• Enforcement orders for 6 Oaks Landing (Beach Nourishment Project violation) and OOC 284-0485 (Horse Pond Road Culvert Replacement Project)
• Land donations: 36 Groton Road (30.24+/- acres) and 0 Lawton Road (10.70+/- acres tax title)
• Forest stewardship plans for Pumpkin Brook & Rich Tree Farm

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Select Board approve the sale of lot 100‑A‑5 to MassWildlife for Article 97 purposes. Members also approved the acceptance of a 30‑acre donation at 36 Groton Road, approved a negative determination of applicability for a deck at 1 Bruce Street, and approved the order of conditions for a fence project at 27 Hazen Road. Several certificate of compliance items were postponed to the August 26 meeting, and the meeting minutes were approved.

• Recommend Select Board approve sale of lot 100‑A‑5 to MassWildlife (6‑0)
• Approve acceptance of deed for 36 Groton Road donation (6‑0)
• Approve Negative #5 determination of applicability for 1 Bruce Street deck (6‑0)
• Close public hearing and approve order of conditions for 27 Hazen Road project (6‑0)
• Postpone Certificate of Compliance for 24 Townsend Road to Aug 26 (6‑0)
• Postpone Certificate of Compliance for 1 Meadows Lane to Aug 26 (6‑0)
• Approve meeting minutes (6‑0)
• Adjourn meeting (5‑0)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review bills and minutes and discuss the appointment of a new debit card holder. The body will also receive updates on youth and adult sports programs and discuss a lease agreement for the Wilde Rd Fields.

• Lease agreement for Wilde Rd Fields
• Appointment of new debit card holder
• Summer in Shirley program update
• Penguins Swim Team update
• Youth Soccer and Basketball updates

The commission approved payment of all outstanding bills after a nomination for a signatory. The previous meeting's minutes were approved unanimously. The board selected Play It Again Sports as the supplier for youth soccer uniforms. The discussion on a debit‑card holder was tabled for a future meeting.

• Approved payment of all bills (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting's minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on debit‑card holder (postponed)
• Selected Play It Again Sports as uniform supplier for youth soccer
• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously

Council on Aging

The Shirley Council on Aging will meet to approve previous minutes, discuss a survey, and plan upcoming programs including a dinner and social. The meeting includes a public comment period.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Discussion of a survey
• Program planning: Two Brothers dinner, Ice Cream Social, Ukulele lessons
• Public comments period
• Executive session for employment screening committee

The board voted unanimously to accept the Nominating Committee’s recommendation for a new candidate. The vote was recorded as unanimous. No other motions were decided; a probationary period was proposed but not voted on.

• Approved Nominating Committee’s candidate recommendation (unanimous)

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will meet to decide on a temporary liquor license for Emilie Faucer, approve proposed building permit and annual licensing fee increases, and hear updates on affordable housing and minimum maintenance bylaw enforcement. The board will also consider appointing a Council on Aging director.

• Approval of Temporary Liquor License for Emilie Faucer on August 15–16, 2025
• Vote on proposed Building Permit Fees (e.g., $60 minimum fee) and Annual Licensing Fees (e.g., liquor licenses up to $1,750)
• Appointment of Council on Aging Director
• Affordable Housing update
• Minimum Maintenance Bylaw awareness update

The board appointed Amy Leonard as the new Council on Aging Director. It approved a letter of support for the Trail Head Study, a temporary liquor license for Emilie Faucher on August 15‑16, and updated building permit and annual licensing fees. The board also approved two Treasury Warrants for $262,654.19 and $108,807.56 and adopted the July meeting minutes. All motions passed unanimously (3‑0).

• Appointed Amy Leonard as COA Director (3‑0)
• Approved letter of support for Trail Head Study (3‑0)
• Approved temporary liquor license for Emilie Faucher Aug 15‑16 (3‑0)
• Approved new Building Permit and Annual Licensing Fees (3‑0)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W26-3 No Check $262,654.19 (3‑0)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W26-3 $108,807.56 (3‑0)
• Approved July 7, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Approved July 14, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting in a joint executive session. The body will discuss litigation regarding the Farnsworth v. Town of Shirley matter in Middlesex Superior Court.

• Executive session regarding Farnsworth v. Town of Shirley (Middlesex Superior Court C.A. no. 2481 CV03300)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review the July 2025 MV Excise Abatement report and solar system exemption applications. The body will also discuss a new Chapter 61 Forestry Classification tax lien and progress on cyclical inspections.

• 2025 MV Excise Abatement End of Month Report for July
• Solar System Exemption Applications
• 2025-03 MV Excise Warrant and Commitment
• Payment to Catalis LLC
• Tax lien for New Chapter 61 Forestry Classification

The Board of Assessors accepted the minutes from the July 2, 2025 meeting. They approved and signed the 2025 MV Excise Abatement End‑of‑Month Report for July, a Solar System Exemption Application, the 2025‑03 MV Excise Warrant and Commitment, and the Schedule of Bills Payable for Catalis LLC and a New Chapter 61 Forestry Tax Lien. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted July 2, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by EH, seconded by Al and DW)
• Approved 2025 MV Excise Abatement End‑of‑Month Report – July
• Approved Solar System Exemption Application (1)
• Approved 2025‑03 MV Excise Warrant and Commitment
• Approved Schedule of Bills Payable: Catalis LLC (3) and New Chapter 61 Forestry Tax Lien (Parcel 39 A 7.1)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:40 p.m. (motion by Al, seconded by EH)

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee will discuss progress on the Housing Production Plan and the Housing Trust. Members will provide updates on Habitat for Humanity research and developer contributions from other towns. The body will also review the current versus proposed affordable housing unit count.

• Housing Production Plan status check-in
• Housing trust intake form and developer contribution comparisons
• Habitat for Humanity research
• Review of affordable housing unit counts (current vs proposed)
• Discussion on ADU and Low Impact Development

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss an Act No. 40 (ANR) for Patterson Road and the release of a covenant for 1 Meadows Lane. The board will also consider a letter of support for a Conservation Committee grant proposal.

• ANR: Patterson Road, Jedidiah Provost
• Public meeting regarding the release of covenant for 1 Meadows Lane
• Letter of support for Conservation Committee’s grant proposal to the Community Preservation Committee

The Planning Board unanimously endorsed an Approval Not Required for a revised lot plan on Patterson Road. It also unanimously released Lot 31 of the Meadows Phase II subdivision from the 1994 covenant, while keeping the rest of the covenant in force. The Board approved the July 16, 2025 minutes and agreed to support the Conservation Commission’s grant request for trailhead parking.

• Endorsed ANR for Patterson Road revision (5-0)
• Released Lot 31, 1 Meadows Lane from 1994 covenant (5-0)
• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Supported Conservation Commission letter of support for trailhead parking grant (5-0)

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The Enhancing Shirley Committee will meet to update business and sponsorship lists for veterans and families. The body will also review the order for Christmas decorations.

• Review of business list for sponsorship
• Review of sponsorship for veterans and families
• Review of Christmas décor order

The Enhancing Shirley Committee confirmed the total costs and funds raised and voted unanimously to place the lighting order. It approved the purchase of cards and large storage totes, the latter contingent on available funds. The committee also approved a $160 payment to Hawthorn Surveyor for a Whiteley Park survey, also contingent on funding, and applied for a Shirley charitable grant to help pay for electricity.

• Confirmed totals and funds raised to place lighting order (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of cards (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of large totes for tree lighting storage, pending funds (unanimous)
• Approved $160 payment to Hawthorn Surveyor for Whiteley Park survey, pending funds (unanimous)
• Voted that all documents are in order and properly documented (unanimous)
• Applied for Shirley charitable grant to help pay for electricity (unanimous)
• Committed to continue raising funds for electrical work (unanimous)
• Authorized Candace King to work with Town Clerk to transfer funds to town account (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Nominating Committee will meet in executive session to review resumes and conduct interviews. The committee intends to select a candidate to report to the full Board meeting on August 11, 2025.

• Review of resumes and candidate interviews

The nominating committee reviewed the job description and created four interview questions. They interviewed three applicants and then agreed on a candidate to forward to the full Council on Aging board at its August 11 meeting.

• Agreed on a candidate to recommend to the full COA board (no vote tally recorded)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review bills and previous meeting minutes. The body will receive updates on various youth and adult sports programs and discuss a lease agreement for the Wilde Rd Fields.

• Lease agreement for Wilde Rd Fields
• Summer in Shirley update
• Penguins Swim Team update
• Shirley Youth Soccer and Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer updates
• Youth and Adult Basketball updates

Affordable Housing Trust

The Affordable Housing Trust will meet to select a Chair and Vice Chair and determine a meeting schedule. Trustees will discuss the trust's duties and identify funds approved at the May Town Meeting. The body will also review guidelines for a rental assistance program.

• Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
• Identification of funds approved at May Town Meeting
• Discussion of rental assistance program guidelines and implementation

The Affordable Housing Trust elected Logan Bries as Chair, Andree Jean-Jacques as Vice Chair, and Stuart Sears as Secretary, each with unanimous approval. Members decided to postpone scheduling the next meeting. They agreed to use two applicant pools for rental assistance and to review applications from other towns before making a final decision.

• Logan Bries elected Chair (unanimous)
• Andree Jean-Jacques elected Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Stuart Sears elected Secretary (unanimous)
• Members postponed scheduling the next meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted two applicant pools for rental assistance (unanimous)
• Agreed to review other towns' rental assistance applications before final decision (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will consider several temporary liquor licenses and appointments for town roles. The board will also receive updates on infrastructure projects and vote on surplus equipment.

• Temporary liquor licenses for Julia Carligle and St. Nicholas Parish
• Appointment of Laurie Witherell as Election Warden and Deborah Seeley as Election Clerk
• Appointment of Doreen Quintiliani to the Affordable Housing Trust
• Classification of Fire Vehicle #2 2013 Ford Expedition as surplus
• Updates on Whitney Road Culvert Replacement and Front Street Shared Use Path Improvements

The board unanimously approved two temporary liquor licenses for Julia Carligle (Oct. 26) and St. Nicholas Parish (Sept. 27). It recommended Max Goodwin for the Devens Enterprise Commission and appointed three election officials and a member to the Affordable Housing Trust. Resolutions supporting Job Corps and Paint Stewardship were adopted, and Fire Vehicle #2 was classified as surplus. Four treasury warrants totaling $940,518.97 were approved.

• Approved temporary liquor licenses for Julia Carligle (Oct 26) and St. Nicholas Parish (Sept 27) (3-0)
• Recommended Max Goodwin for appointment to the Devens Enterprise Commission (3-0)
• Appointed Laurie Witherell (Election Warden), Deborah Seeley (Election Clerk), and Doreen Quintiliani (Affordable Housing Trust) (3-0)
• Approved resolutions for Job Corps and Paint Stewardship (3-0 each)
• Classified Fire Vehicle #2 (2013 Ford Expedition) as surplus (3-0)
• Approved four treasury warrants totaling $940,518.97 (3-0)
• Approved the July 7, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider a land donation and hold public hearings regarding wetlands and enforcement orders. The body will also discuss land management plans and various town permits.

• Vote to accept 30.24+/- acre donation at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust
• Public hearing for fence installation and tree cutting at 27 Hazen Road
• Enforcement order for beach nourishment project at 6 Oaks Landing
• Enforcement order for culvert replacement project on Horse Pond Road
• Review of comprehensive permit application for Parker Village, LLC

The Commission approved the acceptance of a deed donating approximately 30.24 acres at 36 Groton Road. It also continued the public hearing on the Hazen Road wetlands project to the August 12 meeting, and authorized staff to contact Patrick Warner regarding the Warner Conservation Area. All motions passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved acceptance of deed for 30.24± acres at 36 Groton Road (5-0)
• Continued public hearing on Hazen Road wetlands to Aug 12, 2025 (5-0)
• Authorized contact with Patrick Warner about Warner Conservation Area (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for July 8, 2025 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Housing Committee

The committee is meeting to establish leadership and team roles for its members. The body will also discuss the Housing Production Plan and the Affordable Housing Trust.

• Discussion of committee leadership and team roles
• Review of Housing Production Plan Table dated 9/12/2024
• Status of Shirley Meadows Phase 2
• MA Housing Partnership feasibility analysis for town owned land
• Discussion of Community Dev Block Grant and DLTA grants

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public meeting to discuss a covenant release and an Act 40R (ANR) filing. The board will also hold an informal discussion regarding a property on Main Street.

• Public meeting regarding release of covenant at 1 Meadows Lane
• ANR for 36 Groton Road (Commonwealth of Mass. Dept. of Fish & Game)
• Informal discussion regarding Stephen James at 25 Main Street

The board voted 5-0 to favorably endorse the ANR plan for 36 Groton Road. It also voted 5-0 to have the Town Planner contact Town Counsel about releasing the covenant on Meadows Lane. The minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting were approved 4-0, and the board asked the applicant to provide a revised site plan showing property lines and parking.

• Endorsed ANR plan for 36 Groton Road (5-0)
• Approved motion for Town Planner to contact Town Counsel on covenant release (5-0)
• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Requested applicant provide revised site plan with property lines and parking (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review two Zoning Board of Appeals requests and address non-compliance issues at two properties. The meeting includes a review of trash abatements and specific operating expenses.

• Replacement of a 590 sq. ft. mobile home with a 1,067 sq. ft. home at 83 Front Street
• Variance for a 16’x 24’ shed rear yard setback at 2 Daniel Drive
• FY 26 Annual Operating Expenses of $3,497.00
• Non-compliance reviews for 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street
• Review of submitted trash abatements

The Board approved the removal of a 590‑sq‑ft mobile home at 83 Front Street and its replacement with a 1,067‑sq‑ft unit. It also approved a variance for a 16‑by‑24‑ft shed at 2 Daniel Drive, allowing a 50‑ft rear yard setback. A motion to close the meeting was made, seconded, and members voted in favor.

• Approved removal of existing mobile home and replacement with larger unit at 83 Front Street (Board has no issues)
• Approved variance for 16’ x 24’ shed at 2 Daniel Drive, allowing 50 ft rear yard setback (Board has no issues)
• Motion to close the meeting approved (members voted in favor)

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The committee will review updates to business and sponsorship lists for veterans and families. Members will also discuss potential adjustments to the Christmas décor order.

• Review of business sponsorship list
• Review of sponsorships for veterans and families
• Adjustments to Christmas décor order

The Enhancing Shirley Committee voted to add additional red and green balls to the holiday lighting pathways. The committee also recruited two local tree companies, M&M and Flagg Tree, to help install and remove the lights. Members will continue visiting businesses to seek sponsorships for the holiday trees.

• Approved adding more red and green balls for pathway lighting (vote)
• Recruited M&M Tree Company to assist with holiday light installation
• Recruited Flagg Tree Company to assist with holiday light installation
• Continued business outreach for tree sponsorships

Greenway Committee

The committee will receive updates on land stewardship projects and the Fredonian Park Restoration Project. Discussions include grant awards, land donations, and the town's Open Space and Recreation Plan.

• Update on ~30 acre donation at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust
• Update on FY25 $35K Earmark Award for Fredonian Park ADA Engineering Plan
• Pumpkin Brook Link Invasive Plant Management Project grant update
• Forest Legacy Project update
• Ray Farrar Memorial Walkway update

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review bills and previous meeting minutes. The body will receive program updates from Steve Stern regarding Summer in Shirley, as well as reports on soccer, basketball, and swim team activities.

• Summer in Shirley program update from Director Steve Stern
• Penguins Swim Team update
• Shirley Youth Soccer and Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer updates
• Shirley Youth Basketball and Ayer Shirley Youth Basketball updates
• Adult Pickup Basketball update

The Recreation Commission voted to nominate Linda Cournoyer (LC) to sign bills, with Keith Begun (KA) seconding; the motion passed unanimously. The commission also nominated LC to sign meeting minutes, again with KA seconding, and the motion passed unanimously. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by KB and seconded by KA, and it was approved unanimously. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Nominated LC to sign bills – approved unanimously
• Nominated LC to sign minutes – approved unanimously
• Motion to adjourn – approved unanimously

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission and Select Board are holding a joint meeting. The body will consider the appointment of Bryar Trent to the Recreation Commission.

• Appointment of Bryar Trent to the Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission unanimously approved the appointment of Bryar Trent as a new member. The Shirley Select Board also approved his appointment. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 6:04 PM. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday.

• Appointed Bryar Trent to the Recreation Commission (unanimous approval)
• Select Board approved appointment of Bryar Trent to the Recreation Commission (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous approval)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to reorganize its membership and vote on appointments to the Recreation Commission and the Affordable Housing Trust. The board will also consider year-end transfers and signs for the Green Way Committee. A report will be provided regarding the Whitney Rd culvert repair and road closure.

• Appointment of Bryar Trent to the Recreation Commission
• Appointments of Andree Jean Jacques, Logan Bries, Stuart Sears, and Heidi Conley to the Affordable Housing Trust
• Approval of signs in memory of Ray Farrar for the Green Way Committee
• Approval of Year End Transfers
• Update on Whitney Rd culvert repair and road closure

The Shirley Select Board approved $326,655 in year‑end fund transfers and reorganized its leadership. It also appointed members to the Recreation Commission and the Affordable Housing Trust, approved memorial signage, and authorized several treasury warrants. All actions passed with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.

• Appointed Bryar Trent to Recreation Commission (3‑0)
• Approved Ray Farrar Memorial Walkway signs on Front Street (3‑0)
• Appointed Andree Jean Jacques, Logan Bries, Stuart Sears, and Heidi Conley to Affordable Housing Trust (3‑0 each)
• Approved year‑end fund transfers of $326,655 (3‑0)
• Reorganized Select Board: Brian Hildebrant as Chair, Andree Jean Jacques as Vice Chair, Debra Flagg as Clerk (2‑0 each)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W26-1 for $258,020.99 (3‑0)
• Approved Treasury Warrant PRW25-28 for $147,971.04 (3‑0)
• Approved Treasury Warrants PRW25-19 SUPP Payroll ($2,359.33) and W26-1.1 No Check ($1,539.46) (3‑0)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review updates regarding the Director position and transition. The body will also discuss a survey and plan several upcoming community programs.

• Updates on Director job and transition
• Survey discussion
• Health Fair planning
• Two Brothers dinner planning
• Ice Cream Social and Ukulele lessons planning

The board approved the minutes from the June 9, 2025 Council on Aging meeting. It also unanimously approved a three‑member nominating committee—Hans Onsager, Marie Elwyn, and Linda Fifield—to select the new director. No other actions were decided; remaining items were noted for further discussion.

• Approved June 9, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved formation of Director Nominating Committee (Hans Onsager, Marie Elwyn, Linda Fifield) – unanimous vote
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the Town Administrator's report and consider votes on year-end transfers.

• Year End Transfers (Votes Possible)

The committee approved the minutes from the June 11 meeting. It reviewed and unanimously approved the town's year‑end financial transfers. The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 p.m. and the next meeting was set for Sept 9, 2025.

• Approved June 11 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved year‑end transfers (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn adopted

250th Anniversary Committee

The 250th Anniversary Committee will meet to review minutes and discuss potential activities for the town's anniversary. The body will also set the date for its next meeting.

• Discussion of possible anniversary activities

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a fence and tree cutting project at 27 Hazen Road. The body will also discuss a proposed 30-acre land donation at 36 Groton Road and various land management issues.

• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for fence installation and tree cutting at 27 Hazen Road
• Proposed 30+/- acre land donation from GAD Realty Trust at 36 Groton Road
• Enforcement Order regarding a beach nourishment project violation at 6 Oaks Landing
• Payment of $405.00 to Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions
• Review of FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps and Studies effective July 8, 2025

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the June 24, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved payment of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions invoice totaling $405 and the Massachusetts Society for Municipal Conservation Professionals invoice of $20. The commission voted to continue the public hearing on the 27 Hazen Road notice of intent to the July 22, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved June 24, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved payment of MACC invoice $405 (4-0)
• Approved payment of MSMCP invoice $20 (4-0)
• Continued public hearing on 27 Hazen Road to July 22, 2025 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will consider appointments for election workers, registrars, and the Recreation Commission. The board will also review temporary liquor licenses and a Host Community Agreement with Treevit LLC.

• Appointment of Anne Towne to Interim COA Director
• Appointments of 25 Election Workers, one Election Warden, and one Election Clerk
• Appointments of two Registrars (one Republican, one Democrat)
• Temporary Liquor Licenses for Jesse Tarbell (Sterling Street Brewery) and Mark Edwards
• Approval of Host Community Agreement for Treevit LLC

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission and Select Board are holding a joint meeting. The body will consider the appointment of Bryar Trent to the Recreation Commission.

• Appointment of Bryar Trent to the Recreation Commission

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will discuss preliminary tax commitments and warrants for FY2026 real estate, personal property, and CPA surcharges. The meeting includes reviews of motor vehicle excise abatement reports and solar system exemption applications.

• FY2026 Preliminary Real Estate, Personal Property, and CPA Surcharge Tax Commitments
• FY2025 Real Estate and CPA Supplemental Tax Warrants (Batch 2)
• Solar System Exemption Applications
• 58:8 request to DOR for 121 A 3 Townsend Road
• Bills payable for M.R.P.C. (FY2026 Map Updates) and Catalis LLC

The Board accepted the May 15 and June 10 meeting minutes and approved several tax commitment reports. It unanimously approved the response letter to Doug Bassett regarding the Open Meeting Law violation. The Board voted to file a 58:8 petition to seek authority to abate outstanding taxes on parcel 121 A 3, Townsend Road. The meeting was adjourned at 2:25 p.m.

• Accepted May 15, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Accepted June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved FY2026 Preliminary Real Estate Tax Commitment and Warrant (approved)
• Approved FY2026 Preliminary Personal Property Tax Commitment and Warrant (approved)
• Approved response letter to Open Meeting Law violation (unanimous)
• Approved filing of 58:8 petition to abate taxes on parcel 121 A 3, Townsend Road (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:25 p.m. (motion passed)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review preliminary tax commitments and warrants for real estate, personal property, and CPA surcharges for FY2026. The meeting includes reviews of motor vehicle excise reports and solar system exemption applications.

• FY2026 Preliminary Real Estate Tax Commitment and Warrant
• FY2026 Preliminary Personal Property Tax Commitment and Warrant
• FY2026 Preliminary CPA Surcharge Tax Commitment and Warrant
• 58:8 request to DOR regarding 121 A 3 Townsend Road
• Bills payable for M.R.P.C. (FY2026 Map Updates) and Catalis LLC

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review trash abatements and a livestock permit application for 182 Ayer Road. The board will also discuss non-compliance issues at three specific properties. An invoice for E. L. Harvey is listed for approval.

• Invoice for E. L. Harvey in the amount of $48,699.99
• Livestock Permit Application for Martin Mugerwa at 182 Ayer Road
• Non-compliance review for 67 Front Street
• Non-compliance review for 30 Chapel Street
• Non-compliance review for 189 Great Road

The Board of Health approved a livestock application for 10 chickens at 182 Ayer Road. It also approved septic permits for new construction at Patterson Road Lot 1 and 104 Groton Road Lot 8, and a septic permit to replace a D‑Box at 4 Hill Lane. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved livestock application for 10 chickens at 182 Ayer Road (Martin Mugerwa)
• Approved septic permit to replace D‑Box at 4 Hill Lane (Bryan Krol)
• Approved septic permit for new construction at Patterson Road Lot 1 (Jedidiah Provost)
• Approved septic permit for new construction at 104 Groton Road Lot 8 (Meaghan Jeanine Mead)
• Motion to close the meeting passed unanimously

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a fence installation at 27 Hazen Road and repairs to the Squannacook River Dam. The body will also discuss a 30-acre land donation at 36 Groton Road and unauthorized ORV use in local conservation areas.

• Public hearing for Squannacook River Dam repairs by Town of Groton (Groton Land Holdings, Inc.)
• Public hearing for fence installation and tree cutting at 27 Hazen Road
• Proposed 30+/- acre land donation to Shirley CC at 36 Groton Road
• Certificate of Compliance request for 102 Catacunemaug Road
• Discussion of unauthorized ORV use at Rich Tree Farm and Benjamin Hill Conservation Area

The commission approved the meeting minutes and a Certificate of Compliance for 102 Catacunemaug Road. It also continued the Hazen Road public hearing, returned an incomplete notice of intent for 2 Groton Road, and approved the acquisition plan for 36 Groton Road. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting minutes (3-1)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 102 Catacunemaug Road (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 27 Hazen Road to July 8 meeting (5-0)
• Returned incomplete Notice of Intent for 2 Groton Road with list of items (5-0)
• Approved ANR Plan for 36 Groton Road donation (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss potential bylaw amendments and hold a discussion with Anthony Cardillo from BoomX. The board will also handle administrative matters including the review of legal ads from neighboring towns.

• Discussion with Anthony Cardillo from BoomX
• Discussion of potential bylaw amendments
• Review of Planning Board related Legal Ads from neighboring towns

The board approved the May 21, 2025 minutes and cancelled the July 2, 2025 meeting, both by unanimous 4‑0 votes. It took a straw vote and unanimously (4‑0) endorsed returning the BoomX Cannabis hours and drive‑through warrant articles as two separate items at the fall town meeting. The board also discussed forming an Open Space Residential Development working group, with the town planner to invite members.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Cancelled July 2, 2025 Planning Board meeting (4-0)
• Endorsed bringing BoomX Cannabis warrant articles back as two separate items at fall town meeting (4-0)

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review reports from the treasurer and director. The board is scheduled to decide on the holiday schedule for fiscal year 2026.

• Approval of FY26 Holiday Schedule
• Review and signing of invoices
• Treasurer's report
• Director's report

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The Enhancing Shirley Committee will meet to review lists for business and veteran and family sponsorships. The committee will also review a Christmas order.

• Review of business list for sponsorship
• Review of sponsorship for veterans and families
• Review of Christmas order

The Enhancing Shirley Committee voted to concentrate holiday lighting and decorating efforts on Whitely Park and Veterans Row for 2025. Sponsorships were approved for a tree with a plaque at each location, and members were assigned to approach businesses for support. Specific tasks were delegated, including a photo‑op station, obtaining electrician quotes, and posting updates online. The next meeting is set for July 15, 2025.

• Approved focusing holiday lighting on Whitely Park and Veterans Row (committee vote)
• Approved seeking a 3‑foot tree sponsorship with plaque for Veterans Row
• Approved seeking business sponsorship for a tree with plaque at Whitely Park
• Designated members to visit businesses for sponsorship outreach
• Assigned Michelle Oelfke to create a Grinch photo‑op station
• Tasked Troy Cooley with obtaining electrician quotes for materials
• Planned to launch lighting information on the town website and Facebook
• Scheduled next committee meeting for Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will receive updates on various youth and adult sports programs. The body will also discuss a land swap for the Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd.

• Land swap update for Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd
• Summer in Shirley update
• Penguins Swim Team update
• Shirley Youth Soccer update
• Review and approval of bills

MART

The MART Advisory Board will meet to review financial updates and vote on the FY26 budget recommendation. The board will also discuss an upcoming FTA Triennial Review and updates on electric buses and grant projects.

• Vote on FY26 Budget Recommendation
• Approval of MART CFO Signatory Authority
• FTA Triennial Review scheduled for July 8th thru July 10th
• MassDEP Funded Electric Buses update
• Fitchburg / Leominster Fixed Route Redesign

Select Board

The Select Board will consider the approval of the Police MOA and Union Contract and the auction of 56 Fredonian Street. The board is also voting on over 30 appointments to town committees and DPW positions. The Town Administrator will provide updates on several regional grants and ground maintenance.

• Approval of the Police MOA and Union Contract
• Discussion of 56 Fredonian Street Auction
• Appointment of James Levesque (DPW Operator II) and Richard Rice (DPW Operator I)
• Cemetery Committee approval for filming by Janelle Morrissey
• Updates on Shared Streets and Spaces Grant for Front Street and Hospital Road

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will meet to discuss facilities updates and federal grant monitoring. The body is scheduled to vote on the approval of grants received to date and recommended changes to the cell phone policy.

• Vote on recommended changes to the cell phone policy
• Vote to approve grants received to date
• Payroll Warrant 24 for $1,090,238.57
• AP Warrant 1172 for $280,010.21
• FY24 ESSA Federal Grant Program Monitoring Outcomes Report

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the Town Administrator's report and receive an update from the Housing Committee. The body may vote on matters regarding office positions.

• Votes possible on office positions
• Housing Committee update

The Finance Committee approved the April 24 meeting minutes. The committee voted to appoint Anthony Lively as Chair, Candace King as Vice Chair and Secretary, and Elizabeth Johnson as the School Committee Liaison. A motion to adjourn was then passed.

• Approved April 24 meeting minutes
• Elected Anthony Lively as Chair
• Elected Candace King as Vice Chair and Secretary
• Appointed Elizabeth Johnson as School Committee Liaison
• Motion to adjourn passed

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees is holding an emergency meeting to discuss issues regarding the library roof.

• Discussion of library roof issues

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a home replacement and accessory unit at 68 Catacunemaug Road. The body will also address wetlands violations and discuss land acquisition and management.

• Public hearing for 68 Catacunemaug Road: removal of dwelling and construction of single-family home with accessory unit
• Enforcement orders for wetlands violations at 27 Hazen Road and 6 Oaks Landing
• Proposed 30+/- acre land donation from GAD Realty Trust at 36 Groton Road
• Payment of $465.00 invoice to ESRI
• Review of FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps effective July 8, 2025

The commission approved the meeting minutes and paid a $465 ESRI invoice. It approved a letter of support for the Open Space & Recreation Plan. The public hearing on the 68 Catacunemaug Road wetland project was closed. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved meeting minutes (May 27, 2025) – unanimous (4-0)
• Approved payment of ESRI invoice $465 – unanimous (4-0)
• Closed public hearing on 68 Catacunemaug Road project – unanimous (4-0)
• Approved letter of support for Open Space & Recreation Plan – unanimous (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss and provide a written response regarding 29 Clark Road.

• Discussion and written response regarding 29 Clark Road

The Board of Assessors drafted a response letter to Doug Bassett regarding his property at 29 Clark Road. A motion to send the letter, as written at the June 10, 2024 meeting, was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. The signed letter was mailed by certified mail. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved sending response letter to Doug Bassett (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Veterans Events Committee

The Veterans Events Committee is meeting to review and sign invoices related to Memorial Day activities.

• Signing of invoices for Memorial Day activities

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to review trash abatements and address non-compliance issues at specific local addresses. The board will also consider an invoice for the Nashoba Board of Health.

• Invoice for Nashoba Board of Health in the amount of $9,204.61
• Non-compliance review for 30 Chapel Street
• Non-compliance review for 189 Great Road
• Non-compliance review for 67 Front Street
• Review of trash abatements

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will conduct board elections and review reports from the Secretary and Director. The body will also discuss planning for upcoming senior programs.

• COA Board Elections
• Health Fair planning
• Two Brothers dinner planning
• Ice Cream Social planning
• Dementia/Alzheimer’s talk planning

The board approved the minutes from the May 12 meeting with a minor modification. Nancy was approved by the Select Board for a board position. Hans agreed to serve another three‑year term and to be the new Vice‑Chair. The motion to adjourn the meeting was approved.

• Approved May 12 minutes (minor modification)
• Nancy approved by the Select Board for board service
• Hans reappointed for another 3‑year term
• Hans appointed as Vice‑Chair
• Motion to adjourn meeting approved

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee will review updates regarding the One-Stop Grant and the Housing Trust. Discussions include rental assistance applications, outreach efforts, and a needs survey for low and moderate income households.

• One-Stop Grant update
• Housing Trust update
• Sample Rental Assistance application
• Survey of needs of low and moderate income households
• Election of Committee officers for 2026-27

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold discussions regarding potential bylaw amendments and a presentation by Anthony Cardillo from BoomX. The board will also handle administrative matters, including the review of legal ads from neighboring towns.

• Discussion of potential bylaw amendments
• Discussion with Anthony Cardillo from BoomX
• Review of Planning Board related Legal Ads from neighboring towns
• Approval of May 21, 2025 meeting minutes

Select Board

The Select Board will consider approving contracts for the Fire Chief and the Police Union. The board is also reviewing grant applications for transportation safety and housing choice designation. Other business includes appointments to town committees and police reserve officers.

• Approval of Fire Chief Troy Cooley Contract
• Approval of the Police Union Contract
• One Stop for Growth grant application for Shirley Transportation Safety and Connectivity Improvements for Multi-Family Housing Development
• Approval of the 4 Way Stop at Groton and Townsend Road
• Fredonian Park ADA Improvement Engineering and Design agreement

The board unanimously approved a 4‑way stop at Groton and Townsend Road. It also approved appointments for three part‑time reserve police officers, the fire chief’s contract, and several grant letters of support. The board approved the One Stop for Growth transportation grant and reduced the Enhance Shirley Committee from seven to five members. Treasury warrants totaling $1,009,868.83 were also approved.

• Approved appointment of Chhaya Uong, Dillon Roy, and Richard Zenon as Part‑Time Reserve Police Officers (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved Fire Chief Troy Cooley’s contract (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for One Stop for Growth transportation grant (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved One Stop for Growth transportation grant application (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved 4‑way stop at Groton and Townsend Road (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved Fredonian Park ADA Improvement Engineering and Design agreement (3‑0 unanimous)
• Reduced Enhance Shirley Committee from 7 to 5 members (3‑0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrants W25‑24 ($170,335.68), W25‑25 ($84,778.59), W25‑25 No Check ($746,871.20), and W25‑25 Veterans ($7,883.56) (3‑0 unanimous)

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees is holding an emergency meeting to discuss issues with the library roof and determine the board's position on the matter.

• Discussion of library roof issues

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review enforcement orders for wetlands violations and land management issues. The body is also discussing a proposed 30-acre land donation and a 4-acre partition at 36 Groton Road.

• Enforcement orders for 27 Hazen Road and 6 Oaks Landing
• Proposed 30+/- ac donation and 4 acre partition at 36 Groton Road
• Unauthorized ORV use at Rich Tree Farm and Benjamin Hill Conservation Area
• Estoppel Certificate request for Birchwood Hills Conservation Restriction
• FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps and Studies effective July 8, 2025

The commission approved the meeting minutes. It voted to continue the public hearing on the 68 Catacunemaug Road project to the June 10 meeting. It approved payment for a Forest Legacy survey ($15,424.28) and authorized requesting additional quotes for further survey work. Members also approved proceeding with the Beals & Thomas land‑protection proposal.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous 4-0)
• Continued public hearing on 68 Catacunemaug Road project to June 10, 2025 (unanimous 4-0)
• Approved payment for Forest Legacy project survey work (unanimous 5-0)
• Approved request for additional Forest Legacy survey quotes (unanimous 5-0)
• Approved moving forward with Beals & Thomas proposal (unanimous 5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous 5-0)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review bills and meeting minutes. The body will discuss membership updates and provide updates on Shirley Youth Soccer and Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer, including a land swap for a field on Wilde Rd.

• Review and approval of bills
• Membership update and go forward plan
• Shirley Youth Soccer update
• Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer update regarding Wilde Rd land swap

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will meet to vote on annual increases for non-unit employees for 2025-2026. The committee will also consider the reorganization of the committee and the reappointment of the Superintendent to the Keystone Collaborative Board of Directors.

• 2025-2026 Non Unit Employee Annual Increase vote
• AP Warrant 1155 ($756,993.30)
• AP Warrant 1159 ($631,202.52)
• Payroll Warrants 22, 23, and 23.1 totaling $2,073,775.39
• Integrated Monitoring Review Report from the Director of Special Education

Planning Board

The Shirley Planning Board will hold a public meeting to re-appoint officers including chair, vice chair, and representatives to regional committees. The board will also discuss administrative matters such as a Community Conservation Fund grant overview, a draft recommendation letter for an Open Space and Recreation plan, and review any legal ads from neighboring towns. Members will approve and sign meeting minutes from May 7, 2025, and discuss the next meeting date.

• Re-appointment of Planning Board Chair, Vice Chair, and multiple committee representatives
• CCF Grant Overview and Letter of Support
• Review draft recommendation letter for Brian Goldberg, Open Space and Recreation Committee
• Approval and signing of May 07, 2025 meeting minutes

The board voted 5‑0 to favorably endorse the Approval Not Required application for a 39,000‑sq‑ft parcel on Patterson Road. It also unanimously re‑appointed members to board leadership and committee representative roles. The board approved a letter of support for a Community Catalyst Grant and for the Open Space and Recreation Plan. Minutes from the May 7 meeting were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Endorsed ANR for Patterson Road parcel (5‑0)
• Nominated Sarah Widing as Chair of the Planning Board (5‑0)
• Nominated Bill Oelfke as Vice Chair of the Planning Board (5‑0)
• Appointed Mark Jones as primary MMPO representative (5‑0)
• Appointed Janet Tice as primary MJTC representative (5‑0)
• Appointed Bonnie Lawrence as primary Housing Committee representative (5‑0)
• Appointed Sarah Widing as Stormwater Committee representative (5‑0)
• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review reports and provide updates on library operations. The meeting includes a treasurer's report and discussions on budget, building, and personnel.

• Treasurer's report
• Director's report
• Budget and building updates
• Personnel and policy updates
• Review and signing of invoices

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The committee will meet to establish a future meeting schedule and define long-term goals for the town. Members will also create a focal point and plan for 2025 based on the budget.

• Establishment of future committee meeting schedule
• Review and establishment of long-term goals for Shirley
• Creation of a 2025 plan and focal point reflective of the budget

The Enhancing Shirley Committee approved focusing 2025 budget funds on Whiteley Park and Veterans Row. They also approved offering community and businesses sponsorship opportunities for holiday lights and trees. The committee set a monthly meeting schedule for Tuesdays and scheduled the next meeting for June 17, 2025.

• Approved focusing 2025 funds on Whiteley Park and Veterans Row (unanimous)
• Approved offering community and business sponsorship for holiday lights/trees (unanimous)
• Established monthly committee meetings on Tuesdays (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for June 17, 2025 (unanimous)

Greenway Committee

The Shirley Greenway Committee will discuss land protection projects including invasive plant management and a forest legacy update, review progress on the Fredonian Park Restoration Project including a $35,000 ADA engineering plan earmark, and receive updates from the Open Space and Recreation Plan and Housing Committee. The meeting will also cover public engagement events like ShirleyFest on June 7th.

• $35,000 FY25 earmark for Fredonian Park Restoration Project ADA engineering plan
• Pumpkin Brook Link Invasive Plant Management Project update via NSN Wild & Scenic Rivers Stewardship Council
• Forest Legacy Project update
• ShirleyFest event on June 7th, 11am–5pm

Board of Assessors

The Shirley Board of Assessors will meet to approve regular monthly reports for motor vehicle excise abatements, real estate exemptions, and CPA abatements for April, along with various administrative items including ABC approval letters, solar exemption applications, and bills payable. The board will also discuss reorganization after the 2025 election and a parcel ownership issue.

• 2024/2025 MV Excise Abatement End of Month Report – April
• FY2025 Actual Real Estate Exemption End of Month Report – April
• FY2025 Actual CPA Abatement End of Month Report – April
• FY2026 3 ABC Approval Letters
• Schedule of Bills Payable: Marshall & Swift and Catalis LLC

The Board accepted the minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting and approved a series of FY2025‑2026 reports and contracts. April Iannacone was appointed Chairperson for the May 2025‑May 2026 term. The Board voted to lower the excluded land area for parcel 33 A 6 from 60,000 sq ft to 43,560 sq ft for the FY2027 Chapter 61A filing. The meeting was adjourned at 1:32 p.m.

• Accepted April 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved and signed FY2025/2026 reports and contracts (e.g., MV Excise reports, exemption reports, assessment services contract)
• Appointed April Iannacone as Board Chairperson for May 2025–May 2026
• Approved reduction of excluded area to 43,560 sq ft for FY2027 Chapter 61A filing of parcel 33 A 6
• Adjourned meeting at 1:32 p.m.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will discuss a 30-acre land donation at 36 Groton Road and hold a public hearing for a home construction project at 68 Catacunemaug Road. The body will also address enforcement orders regarding wetland violations at three different properties.

• 30+/- ac donation to Shirley CC from GAD Realty Trust at 36 Groton Road
• Public hearing for single-family dwelling and ADU at 68 Catacunemaug Road
• National Grid distribution line maintenance replacing 45 poles at Longley & Groton Roads
• Enforcement orders for violations at 27 Hazen Road, 6 Oaks Landing, and 142 Ayer Road
• Review of FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps effective July 8, 2025

The Conservation Commission approved the meeting minutes unanimously (6-0). It continued the public hearing for the 68 Catacunemaug Road project to May 27, 2025 (6-0). It voted 5-1 to exempt the owner of 142 Ayer Road from filing a wetlands application for a pool and deck, and unanimously (6-0) required a follow‑up letter stating future activities must obtain a permit. The commission also approved a 4‑acre exclusion for the 36 Groton Road donation (6-0) and adjourned (5-0).

• Approved meeting minutes (6-0)
• Continued public hearing for 68 Catacunemaug Road to May 27, 2025 (6-0)
• Exempted 142 Ayer Road pool project from wetlands application (5-1)
• Required follow‑up letter for future activities in riverfront and wetland zones (6-0)
• Approved 4‑acre exclusion location for 36 Groton Road donation (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Veterans Events Committee

The Shirley Veterans Events Committee is meeting to discuss parade particulars, including food selection, a parade marshal, and sound system arrangements. They will also coordinate Boy/Girl Scout involvement and consider new members.

• Discuss parade particulars and food selection
• Parade marshal assignment
• Wheeler sound system logistics
• Boy/Girl Scout involvement (Jessica)
• Discussion of new committee members

Select Board

The Select Board will vote on increasing the Land Use Comprehensive Permit fee to $500 per unit, and consider appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Center Town Hall Committee. The board will also hear the Town Administrator's report and approve treasury warrants.

• Vote to increase Land Use Comprehensive Permit fee to $500 per unit
• Appointment of Dustin White to the Zoning Board of Appeals
• Appointment of Linda Malone to the Center Town Hall Committee
• Town Administrator Report
• Approval of Treasury Warrants

The board voted unanimously to increase the Land Use Comprehensive Permit Fee to $500 per unit. It appointed Dustin White as an alternate to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Linda Malone to the Center Town Hall Committee. Two treasury warrants—W25-23 for $67,782.01 and a No‑Check warrant for $102.22—were approved. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Increased Land Use Comprehensive Permit Fee to $500 per unit (3-0 unanimous)
• Appointed Dustin White as Alternate to Zoning Board of Appeals (3-0 unanimous)
• Appointed Linda Malone to Center Town Hall Committee (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W25-23 for $67,782.01 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W25-23 No Check for $102.22 (3-0 unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0 unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Shirley Council on Aging will meet on May 12, 2025, to discuss the director's budget review and approve minutes. They will also hear an update on fundraising for chairs for the Senior Center and plan upcoming programs including a Health Fair, Ice Cream Social, Two Brothers dinner, and a talk on Dementia/Alzheimer's. Additionally, there will be a discussion about the upcoming COA Board elections in June.

• Approve minutes from last meeting
• Budget review by Director
• Fundraising for chairs for the Senior Center (Friends update)
• Program planning: Health Fair, Ice Cream Social, Two Brothers dinner, Dementia/Alzheimer's talk
• Upcoming COA Board elections in June

The board approved the April 14 minutes with a minor modification. Staff noted that the annual election will be held at the June meeting, with Marie continuing her term, Hans beginning a new three‑year term and Vicki stepping down. The Select Board approved Nancy’s application and will review Linda’s application. The motion to adjourn was approved.

• Approved April 14 minutes with minor modification
• Confirmed Hans will start a new 3‑year term
• Noted Marie will continue her current term
• Recorded Vicki’s decision to step down after her term
• Select Board approved Nancy’s application
• Select Board will review Linda’s application
• Scheduled annual election for June meeting
• Approved motion to adjourn

Finance Committee

The Shirley Finance Committee agenda for May 12, 2025, contains only two items: administrative matters as determined by the chair and a general reference to Town Meeting. No specific proposals, contracts, dollar amounts, or public hearings are listed, making this a procedural-only meeting.

• No substantive items (rezonings, ordinances, or appropriations) appear on the agenda

Enhancing Shirley Committee

The Enhancing Shirley Committee will appoint officers, set a meeting schedule, and review long-term goals for the town. They will discuss a potential budget for holiday lighting and create a plan for 2025. Grant opportunities will also be explored.

• Appointment of committee officers
• Review of holiday lighting potential budget/funding
• Create plan and focal point for 2025 reflective of budget
• Grant possibilities
• Establish future committee meeting schedule

The Enhancing Shirley Committee held an election and chose Candace King as Chair, Adeline Rodriguez as Vice Chair, and Kayla Rose as Secretary by voice vote. After the election, Adeline Rodriguez left the meeting, leaving the committee without a quorum, and the meeting was adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

• Candace King elected Chair (voice vote)
• Adeline Rodriguez elected Vice Chair (voice vote)
• Kayla Rose elected Secretary (voice vote)

Open Space & Recreation

The Open Space and Recreation Committee will hold a virtual meeting to finalize the Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) document. The agenda also includes committee member comments and public comments.

• Finalize the Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) document

The Open Space and Recreation Plan for 2023‑2033 was approved unanimously (4‑0). The meeting minutes were also approved unanimously (4‑0). The committee will ask the Selectboard and Town Administrator how it can support implementation of the plan.

• Approved Open Space and Recreation Plan 2023‑2033 (4‑0)
• Approved meeting minutes (4‑0)

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will meet to decide on the acceptance of school choice students for the 2025-2026 school year. The body will also vote on a proposed increase to athletic user fees and review several payment warrants.

• Vote on recommendation to accept school choice students for 2025-2026
• Vote on proposed increase to athletic user fees
• AP Warrant 1154: $920,107.72
• Payroll Warrant 21: $1,071,363.63
• Donation of $500 to Page Hilltop Elementary School from Global Partners

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold an informal discussion with Brandon McCabe and receive a presentation on the Open Space and Recreation Plan from Brian Goldberg. Administrative matters include reviewing legal ads from neighboring towns, approving meeting minutes from April 2025, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Informal discussion with Brandon McCabe
• Presentation from Brian Goldberg on Open Space and Recreation Plan
• Review of Planning Board legal ads from neighboring towns
• Approval of meeting minutes from April 02, 09, and 16, 2025
• Discussion of next meeting date (May 21, 2025)

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 2, April 9, and April 16 meetings. It also approved Lowell Publishing invoice #2703223 for $135.44. The board discussed a waiver request for a Great Road development but concluded the proposal did not meet the waiver standards. The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

• Approved April 02, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved April 09, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved April 16, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved Lowell Publishing invoice #2703223 for $135.44 (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

250th Anniversary Committee

The committee is meeting to review previous minutes and discuss possible plans for the town's 250th anniversary. No formal votes or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of possible anniversary plans

Public Safety

The Town of Shirley is seeking public feedback to update its Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan for 2024. This information will be used to set town action items for the next five years.

• Public meeting on April 29, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Town Hall Conference Room A/B

Board of Health

The Board of Health will vote on awarding a solid waste contract for fiscal years 2026, 2027, and 2028. The meeting is scheduled for 7:00 PM at the Town Offices.

• Awarding of the Solid Waste Contract for FY26, FY27, and FY28 – vote to be taken

The Board of Health voted to award the solid waste services contract for fiscal years 2026, 2027, and 2028 to E. L. Harvey & Sons for a total of $1,863,402.54. Both members present, Dan Taylor and Jey Rivera, voted yea. The meeting was then formally closed by a motion that also passed unanimously.

• Approved solid waste contract to E. L. Harvey & Sons for FY 26‑28 ($1,863,402.54) (2‑0)
• Approved motion to close the meeting (2‑0)

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will review and make recommendations on the Annual Town Meeting warrant, hear a presentation from the Affordable Housing Trust, and discuss town budget, road updates, police collective bargaining, and a solid waste/recycling bid. Several appointments to town boards are also scheduled for votes.

• Appointment of Andrea Johnston to the Cultural Council
• Appointment of Nancy Andersen to the COA Board
• Affordable Housing Trust presentation by Stuart Sears
• Review and recommendations on Annual Town Meeting Warrant articles
• Police collective bargaining and solid waste/recycling bid updates

The board voted unanimously to approve several Treasury warrants totaling over $1.2 million, including a $728,792.65 payment. It also appointed Andrea Johnston to the Cultural Council and Nancy Andersen to the COA Board. Letters of support were approved for the Nashoba Valley Board of Health and the state Housing Secretary. The Annual Town Meeting Warrant was approved and posted.

• Appointed Andrea Johnston to Cultural Council (3-0 unanimous)
• Appointed Nancy Andersen to COA Board (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Nashoba Valley Board of Health (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved letter to Housing Secretary Hao (3-0 unanimous)
• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 8 Police Union Contract (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved and posted Annual Town Meeting Warrant (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W25-22 Veterans for $8,640.07 (3-0 unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W25-22 No Check for $728,792.65 (3-0 unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review the Town Administrator's report and the Open Space and Recreation Plan. The committee may also take votes during the discussion of the Town Warrant.

• Open Space and Recreation Plan
• Warrant discussion and possible votes

The Finance Committee voted favorable on a series of committee recommendations, including police stipend, salary classification, omnibus operating budget, and capital improvement items. It took no action on the Conservation Committee and placed transfers to the Special Purpose and Debt Accounts on hold until the Town Meeting. No other substantive motions were recorded.

• Police Stipend Committee voted favorable
• Salary Classification Committee voted favorable
• Omnibus Operating Budget Committee voted favorable
• Sewer Entitlement Fund Committee voted favorable
• Ambulance Entitlement Fund Committee voted favorable
• Solid Waste Entitlement Fund Committee voted favorable
• Police Union Contract Committee voted favorable
• OPEB Committee voted favorable

Housing Committee

The Shirley Housing Committee will meet to review and approve prior meeting minutes and receive updates on the Housing Trust, a CPC grant application, and a sample rental assistance application. The committee will also discuss outreach efforts including a survey of low- and moderate-income household needs. The agenda is largely procedural with no votes on binding actions.

• Update on Housing Trust
• Update on Community Preservation Committee (CPC) Grant application
• Review of Sample Rental Assistance application
• Discussion of survey on low- and moderate-income household needs

Conservation Commission

The Shirley Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two proposed single-family homes within 100 feet of bordering vegetated wetlands (3 Meadows Lane and 68 Catacunemaug Road), and will consider a request to move a chicken coop at 5 Meadows Lane. The agenda also includes enforcement actions at two properties, a proposed land donation of 30+ acres at 36 Groton Road, and an executive session on real property.

• Public hearing on Notice of Intent for a single-family house at 3 Meadows Lane within 100 feet of wetland
• Public hearing on Notice of Intent for a dwelling with accessory unit at 68 Catacunemaug Road within 100 feet of wetland
• Request for Determination of Applicability to move a chicken coop at 5 Meadows Lane within 100 feet of wetland and a 24-foot no-disturb zone
• Land donation of 30+ acres at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust to the Conservation Commission
• Enforcement orders at 6 Oaks Landing (beach nourishment) and 142 Ayer Road (tree cutting in riverfront area and wetland buffer)

The commission approved the meeting minutes and a $205 payment to Colonial Pest Control. It granted a Determination of Applicability for a chicken coop project at 5 Meadows Lane and re‑issued a Certificate of Compliance for 23 Phoenix Street. The commission also closed the public hearing for 3 Meadows Lane, approved its Order of Conditions, and continued the hearing for 68 Catacunemaug Road to May 13.

• Approved meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved payment of $205 to Colonial Pest Control (5-0)
• Approved Determination of Applicability for 5 Meadows Lane (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 23 Phoenix Street (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for 3 Meadows Lane (4-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 3 Meadows Lane (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for 68 Catacunemaug Road to May 13, 2025 (4-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss real‑property matters (5-0)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review bills and minutes, and receive updates on summer programs, youth sports, and adult basketball. A key discussion item is a land swap for the Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd. No votes are anticipated; all items are updates or reviews.

• Review and approve bills
• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Summer in Shirley program update
• Land swap update for Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd
• Updates on Penguins Swim Team, Shirley Youth Soccer, and youth/adult basketball programs

The commission voted to nominate LC as the official signatory for bills, with unanimous approval. Later, the commission unanimously approved a motion to adjourn the meeting. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• LC nominated to sign bills – approved unanimously
• Meeting adjourned – approved unanimously

Veterans Events Committee

The Shirley Veterans Events Committee will meet to finalize details for Memorial Day festivities. Agenda items include appointing a Master of Ceremonies, announcing the Memorial Day speaker, and discussing parade logistics and food selection.

• Appointment of Master of Ceremonies
• Announcement of Memorial Day Speaker
• Discussion of parade particulars
• Selection of food for the event

Board of Health

The Board of Health will open bids for solid waste management services for fiscal years 2026, 2027, and 2028. The board will also review ZBA approval forms for developments on Parker and Great Roads.

• Opening of bids for Solid Waste Management Services (FY26, 27 & 28)
• Invoice for E. L. Harvey in the amount of $45,708.73
• ZBA Approval Form for Jeffrey Dusti regarding rear yard setback at Parker and Great Road
• ZBA Approval Form for Brandon McCabe (Parker Village) for a 48-unit development at 58 Parker Rd., 0 Great Rd., and 242 Great Rd.
• Review and approval of submitted trash abatements

The Board approved the submitted abatements. It deferred awarding the solid‑waste management contract, stating the award will be made after further review. The Board approved a variance for a 50‑foot rear‑yard setback at 206R Great Road and approved a 48‑unit development permit with health conditions. A motion to close the meeting passed unanimously.

• Bid award for solid waste management services deferred (not awarded at this meeting)
• Abatements reviewed and approved
• Variance for 50‑ft rear‑yard setback at 206R Great Road approved (no issues)
• 48‑unit development permit at 58 Parker Road approved with health conditions
• Motion to close the meeting passed unanimously (all members voted in favor)

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will hold a regular meeting to vote on several new business items, including adoption of proposed middle school science and social studies curriculum, a capital stabilization funding request for the facilities department, and ratification of the 2025-2028 ASREA collective bargaining agreement. The consent agenda includes approval of warrants totaling over $2 million, a donation for field maintenance equipment, and the annual grade 7 trip to Canobie Lake Park.

• Consent agenda: AP Warrant 1140 for $919,975.18 and Payroll Warrant 20 for $1,070,531.61, among others
• Approval of $1,178 donation from Oestreicher Family for baseball/softball field maintenance equipment
• Vote on adoption of middle school science and social studies curriculum
• Vote on capital stabilization funding request for facilities department
• Vote on ratification of 2025-2028 ASREA (teachers') agreement

Planning Board

The Shirley Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Protective Zoning By-Laws, covering three sections: Flood Plain Protection Overlay District (Section 4.12), Marijuana Business (Section 4.18), and Accessory Dwelling Units (Section 4.5). The board will also provide comments to the ZBA on the Parker Village 40B project, review legal notices from neighboring towns, approve minutes from prior meetings, and set the agenda for May 7.

• Public hearing on amendments to Section 4.12 (Flood Plain Protection Overlay District)
• Public hearing on amendments to Section 4.18 (Marijuana Business)
• Public hearing on amendments to Section 4.5 (Accessory Dwelling Units)
• Provide comments to ZBA for Parker Village 40B project
• Approve meeting minutes from April 2 and April 9, 2025

The Planning Board voted 5‑0 to recommend amendments to the zoning bylaws allowing interior drive‑throughs for marijuana businesses and extending their closing time to 10 PM. It also unanimously recommended the Floodplain Overlay Protection District amendment and the adoption of Protected Use Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) changes, including deleting Section 4.10. Additionally, the Board approved its comments on the Parker Village 40B project for the Zoning Board of Appeals and closed the public hearing.

• Recommend amendment to Section 4.18.7.c allowing interior drive‑throughs for marijuana businesses (5‑0)
• Recommend amendment to Section 4.18.4.b extending marijuana closing time to 10 PM (5‑0)
• Recommend amendment to Floodplain Overlay Protection District Bylaw, Section 4.12 (5‑0)
• Recommend adoption of Protected Use ADU bylaw changes, including deletion of Section 4.10 (5‑0)
• Approve Planning Board comments on Parker Village 40B project to Zoning Board of Appeals (5‑0)
• Motion to close the public hearing passed (5‑0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (5‑0)

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

This is a routine monthly meeting of the Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees. The board will approve previous minutes, receive the treasurer's and director's reports, and discuss updates on budget, building, personnel, policy, programs, and the Friends of the Library. No specific decisions or funding items are listed on the agenda.

• Approve previous meeting minutes
• Treasurer's report
• Director's report
• Updates on budget, building, personnel, policy, programs, Friends

Greenway Committee

The Greenway Committee will discuss the FY25 $35,000 earmark for an ADA engineering plan at Fredonian Park, along with the NS Wild & Scenic Rivers Community Grant Awards for invasive plant management. Other items include updates on the Open Space and Recreation Plan, Shirley Trails, and a volunteer event. The committee will also enter executive session to discuss two parcels of protection interest.

• FY25 $35K earmark for Fredonian Park ADA Engineering Plan
• NS Wild & Scenic Rivers Community Grant Awards for Pumpkin Brook Link Invasive Plant Management Project
• Fredonian Park volunteer seedling planting day on May 3rd
• Shirley Trails update including Ray Farrar Walkway
• Executive session to discuss two parcels of protection interest

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will consider several appointments to town boards and departments, including the Cultural Council and DPW operator positions. They will also vote on acceptance of a bid from Sumco Eco-Contracting, receive presentations on Green Communities and the Open Space and Recreation Plan, and make recommendations on the Annual Town Meeting Warrant for May 12, 2025.

• Appointment of Nancy Rakip to the Cultural Council
• Acceptance of Sumco Eco-Contracting Bid
• Vote to close and recommend articles on the Annual Town Meeting Warrant
• Green Communities Annual Presentation
• Open Space and Recreation Plan Presentation

The Select Board unanimously approved the award of a $186,000 contract to Sumco Eco-Contracting for the Whitney Road culvert replacement. It also confirmed several appointments to town programs and departments, including the Cultural Council, Senior Work‑off Program, MART driver, and DPW positions. Treasury warrants totaling over $150,000 were approved, and the Annual Town Meeting warrant was closed.

• Appointed Nancy Rakip to the Cultural Council (3-0)
• Appointed Dorothy Claydon and Barbara Reichert to the Senior Work‑off Program (3-0)
• Appointed Janet Gagne as a per diem MART Driver (3-0)
• Appointed Stephen Rice as DPW Senior Operator (3-0)
• Appointed Robert Riley as DPW Operator II (3-0)
• Appointed James Leonardi as DPW Operator (3-0)
• Accepted $186,000 Sumco Eco‑Contracting bid for Whitney Road culvert replacement (3-0)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W25-21 for $153,421.36 (3-0)

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will meet to conduct a hearing regarding the wage scale and salary classification for fiscal year 2026.

• FY2026 Wage Scale and Salary Classification Hearing

Council on Aging

The Shirley Council on Aging will meet on April 14, 2025, to discuss routine business including approval of minutes, a director's report, and planning for upcoming programs such as a talk on dementia/Alzheimer's and a potential trip to Tower Hill. The board will also update fundraising efforts for new chairs at the Senior Center and review upcoming COA board elections.

• Approve minutes from last meeting
• Director's report on operations
• Fundraising for new chairs at the Senior Center
• Program planning: Tower Hill trip and dementia/Alzheimer's talk
• Upcoming COA board elections

The board approved the March 11, 2025 Council on Aging minutes with a minor modification. They decided to rule out Mahjong for now and to wait on purchasing new chairs before buying keyboards. The meeting was formally adjourned.

• Approved March 11, 2025 minutes (minor modification)
• Ruled out Mahjong activity (for now)
• Opted to wait on chair purchase before buying keyboards
• Motion to adjourn approved

Board of Assessors

The Shirley Board of Assessors will consider approving routine monthly reports on motor vehicle excise abatements, real estate exemptions, and CPA abatements. They will also review and approve a request for proposals (RFP) for FY2026-2028 contract bids and address a new Chapter Land filing.

• Approval of motor vehicle excise abatement end-of-month reports for February and March 2025
• Approval of FY2025 real estate exemption and CPA abatement end-of-month reports for February
• Approval of FY2025 real estate and CPA supplemental tax warrant and commitments
• Approval of statutory exemption applications (Clause 22, 17D) and FY2026 3 ABC approval letters
• Review and approve RFP for FY2026-2028 contract bids

The Board accepted the bid from Catalis and awarded the FY2026‑FY2028 Revaluation Program contract. The February 20, 2025 meeting minutes were approved. Several FY2024‑FY2025 excise abatement and tax reports were signed. The Board voted to exclude 60,000 sq ft from a Chapter 61A filing for parcel 33 A 6.

• Accepted Catalis bid and awarded FY2026‑FY2028 Revaluation Program contract
• Approved February 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Signed 2024‑2025 MV Excise Abatement End of Month Reports (Feb, Mar)
• Signed FY2025 Real Estate and CPA Supplemental Tax Warrant and Commitments
• Signed FY2025 Statutory Exemption Applications Clause 22(1), 17D(2)
• Signed FY2026 3 ABC Approval Letters and Solar System Exemption Applications (4)
• Approved BOA Quarterly Payroll Stipend Form
• Excluded 60,000 sq ft from Chapter 61A filing for parcel 33 A 6

Planning Board

The Shirley Planning Board will hold a public meeting to discuss a proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) by-law. This is the only substantive item on the agenda, aside from administrative matters at the chair's discretion.

• Discussion of proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) by-law

The Board voted to change the wording of Section 4.5.2.4 in the proposed Protected Use Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bylaw. The amendment aligns the ADU provisions with the Town’s Historic District Commission requirements. The motion passed unanimously (4‑0). The meeting was then adjourned unanimously (4‑0).

• Amended ADU Bylaw wording for Shirley Center Historic District (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

250th Anniversary Committee

The 250th Anniversary Committee will approve minutes from the last meeting and discuss a grant application. No specific grant details are provided in the agenda.

• Discussion of a grant application for the 250th anniversary

MART

The MART Advisory Board will vote on approving December 2024 meeting minutes and receive financial updates including an FY25 eight-month financial report and FY26 funding forecast for federal and state sources. The board will discuss MassDOT grant-funded projects such as the Emerson Hospital shuttle, microtransit services, and a Fitchburg/Leominster route redesign, as well as an FTA Triennial Review and a MassDOT audit. Operational updates on transit and brokerage ridership and revenue data will also be presented.

• Approval of December 17, 2024 meeting minutes
• FY25 eight-month financial update and full-year projection
• FY26 funding forecast for federal and state transit funding
• MassDOT grant projects: Emerson Hospital shuttle, Ayer/Shirley/Lancaster microtransit, Fitchburg/Leominster route redesign
• National Grid-funded facility electrical upgrade of approximately $338,000

Conservation Commission

The Shirley Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notices of Intent for construction within 100 feet of bordering vegetated wetlands: a new single-family house at 3 Meadows Lane and demolition/replacement with an accessory dwelling unit at 68 Catacunemaug Road. The commission will also discuss an enforcement order for a beach nourishment project at 6 Oaks Landing and a potential 30+ acre land donation at 36 Groton Road. Other items include approval of minutes, bills, and updates on conservation projects.

• Public Hearing – Notice of Intent for single-family house at 3 Meadows Lane (within 100 ft of wetland)
• Public Hearing – Notice of Intent for dwelling replacement with ADU at 68 Catacunemaug Road (within 100 ft of wetland)
• Enforcement Order discussion for beach nourishment project at 6 Oaks Landing
• Land acquisition consideration: 30+ acre donation at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust
• National Grid notification of utility pole inspection on transmission lines (U21S, U21E, V22E)

The commission approved its meeting minutes and paid two pending invoices, each by a 4‑0 vote. It voted to continue the public hearings for the Catacunemaug Road and 3 Meadows Lane wetland projects to the April 22, 2025 meeting, also by unanimous 4‑0 votes. The FY 2024 Conservation Commission Annual Report was approved for submission, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved payment of $428.00 and $100.00 invoices (4-0)
• Continued Catacunemaug Road wetland public hearing to April 22, 2025 (4-0)
• Continued 3 Meadows Lane wetland public hearing to April 22, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved FY 2024 Conservation Commission Annual Report (4-0)
• Added language to Special Conditions: exemption if Certificate of Compliance issued (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Recreation Commission

The Shirley Recreation Commission will discuss the budget for the administrative assistant's salary, bonuses, and COLA, and determine the source of remaining FY25 payroll funds. They will receive updates on summer programs, swim team, youth soccer (including a land swap for the Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd), and various basketball programs. The meeting also includes review of bills, previous minutes, and a financial update from the Town Accountant.

• Discuss budget for administrative assistant salary, bonuses, and COLA
• Determine source of remaining FY25 payroll funds
• Update on land swap for Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd
• Financial update from Town Accountant
• Summer in Shirley program update

The commission unanimously approved Keith Begun’s nomination to sign bills. It also approved raising appropriated funds to pay the administrative assistant up to 10 hours per week and adopted a payroll funding plan allocating percentages from various town programs (ASYS 50%, SYS 20%, SYB 20%, SIS 5%, PE 5%, PST 0%). No other substantive actions were decided. The meeting adjourned unanimously.

• Keith Begun nominated to sign bills – unanimous approval
• Raise appropriated funds to pay administrative assistant up to 10 hrs/week – approved
• Allocate admin assistant payroll: ASYS 50%, SYS 20%, SYB 20%, SIS 5%, PE 5%, PST 0% – unanimous approval
• Motion to adjourn – unanimous approval

Center Town Hall Committee

The Center Town Hall Committee meets to review minutes, financials, and maintenance items including an electrical update and repair work. The agenda is primarily procedural with no major decisions anticipated.

• Review of financial statements
• Electrical update
• Repair work status
• Upcoming common events and rentals

Planning Board

The Shirley Planning Board will conduct a final review of the proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw. This public meeting includes discussion of the bylaw's provisions and potential finalization. Administrative matters include reviewing legal ads from neighboring towns, approving the March 19, 2025 meeting minutes, and setting the agenda for April 16, 2025.

• Final review of Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw
• Review of legal ads from neighboring towns for comments
• Approval of meeting minutes from March 19, 2025
• Discussion of next meeting agenda for April 16, 2025

The board voted 5-0 to adopt the Protected Use Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Bylaw with added language restricting ADUs in the Shirley Center Historic District and clarifying short‑term rentals. It also approved the March 19, 2025 meeting minutes and a $18.92 invoice for file racks. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Protected Use ADU Bylaw amendment (5-0)
• Approved March 19, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved WB Mason invoice #251991164 for $18.92 file racks (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

250th Anniversary Committee

The committee will elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary to organize celebrations for the nation's 250th anniversary. Members will discuss potential activities, a meeting schedule, and the creation of a slogan and logo. Town Administrator Bryan Sawyer provided parameters regarding office equipment and initial funding.

• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Proposed $250 for initial expenses
• Discussion of state grant money for the 250th anniversary
• Establishment of a fund for earned and donated monies
• Discussion of possible anniversary activities

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will vote on whether to pause the MSBA Statement of Interest submittal. They will also review the Superintendent’s Mid-Year Progress Report on co-teaching and vote on the placement of a Panther statue. Additionally, the committee will consider the draft 2025-2026 school year calendar and approve routine consent agenda items including warrants totaling over $1.28 million.

• Vote on pausing the MSBA Statement of Interest submittal
• Superintendent’s Mid-Year Progress Report on co-teaching
• Vote on Panther statue placement
• Consent agenda includes warrants: AP Warrant 1133 ($1,476.98), AP Warrant 1132 ($220,239.42), Payroll Warrant 19 ($1,061,511.73), Payroll Warrant 19.1 ($1,775.38)
• Draft 2025-2026 school year calendar presented by Assistant Superintendent

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and possibly vote on the Town Meeting budget and warrant. They will also hear the Town Administrator's report and approve previous meeting minutes. These discussions may set the budget and agenda items for the upcoming Town Meeting.

• Town Meeting Budget Discussion with possible votes
• Town Meeting Warrant Discussion with possible votes
• Town Administrator's Report
• Meeting minutes review and approval

The Finance Committee approved the March meeting minutes and reported that 83% of the town budget had been used through March 31, 2025, with some overages to be covered by $86,000 from ARPA funds. The committee voted on 25 town warrant articles, most receiving a favorable vote, while several key items were placed on hold. Amendments to the Flood Plain, Dwelling, Marijuana, Rev. Fund, Affordable Housing Trust, Chapter 90 Funds, PEG Access, Front St Path Improvements, and other committees were also voted on, with mixed outcomes. The meeting was adjourned at 3:55 pm.

• Annual Town Report Committee warrant voted favorable
• Police Stipend Committee warrant voted favorable
• Salary Classification Committee warrant voted favorable
• Omnibus Operating Budget Committee warrant voted hold
• Police Union Contract Committee warrant voted hold
• Conservation Committee warrant voted hold
• Community Preservation Committee warrant voted hold
• Open Space/Rec Fund Committee warrant voted hold

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee will review draft articles to establish an Affordable Housing Trust. The body will also receive an update on a CPC grant application and discuss a flyer to identify the needs of low and moderate income households.

• Review of draft articles for founding Affordable Housing Trust
• Update on CPC Grant application
• Discussion of outreach flyer for low and moderate income households

The committee approved the minutes from the March 6 meeting. It reviewed a draft Articles of Foundation for an Affordable Housing Trust and recommended limiting the trust’s purpose to creating and preserving housing for low- and moderate‑income households. Stuart Sears said he will submit a $30,000 CPC grant application for temporary rental assistance. The committee also discussed outreach methods such as flyers.

• Approved minutes for March 6 meeting (motion by AL, seconded by BL)
• Committee recommended limiting Affordable Housing Trust purpose to low‑ and moderate‑income households

Center Town Hall Committee

The Center Town Hall Committee will hold a routine meeting to review financials, discuss maintenance items including an electrical update and repair work, and consider upcoming events and rentals. No significant votes or public hearings are scheduled.

• Review of committee financials
• Electrical update discussion
• Repair work update
• Upcoming common events and Center Town Hall rentals

Communication Committee

The Communication Committee will meet with Town Administrator Bryan Sawyer to discuss the committee's mission and consider producing a newsletter for Shirley. The agenda also includes approval of previous minutes and routine administrative items.

• Meeting with Town Administrator to discuss committee mission
• Discussion of possible newsletter for the Town of Shirley
• Approval of minutes from February 27, 2025 meeting

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review requests for Certificates of Compliance and a violation regarding a beach nourishment project. The body will also discuss the FY 2024 annual report and land acquisition involving a donation of approximately 30 acres.

• Land acquisition: 30+/- ac donation to Shirley CC from GAD Realty Trust at 36 Groton Road
• Certificate of Compliance requests for 61 Little Turnpike Road and 5 Meadows Lane
• Enforcement order/violation for beach nourishment project at 6 Oaks Landing
• Review of FY 2024 Annual Report
• Discussion of Fredonian Nature Center ADA Project

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the Certificate of Compliance for 61 Little Turnpike Road. It also approved amendments to the Transfer of Ownership section of the Special Conditions and adopted the meeting minutes. The commission entered and later exited an executive session, then adjourned the meeting, all by unanimous votes.

• Approved meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 61 Little Turnpike Road (6-0)
• Approved amendment to Transfer of Ownership section of Special Conditions (6-0)
• Entered executive session (6-0)
• Exited executive session (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Recreation Commission

The Shirley Recreation Commission will meet on March 25, 2025, to review bills and minutes, receive a financial update, and discuss the budget for the administrative assistant's salary, bonuses, and COLA as a follow-up. Updates will be provided on summer programs and youth sports, including a land swap for the Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd.

• Review and approve bills and previous meeting minutes
• Financial update from Town Accountant
• Discuss budget for administrative assistant salary, bonuses, and COLA
• Update on land swap for Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd
• Updates on Summer in Shirley, Penguins Swim Team, and youth basketball

The Recreation Commission unanimously approved LC as minutes signer and JLD as bill signer. The O'Connor bill was removed from the Snack Shack account, clearing disputed transactions. Several staff were tasked with follow‑up actions, and the board voted unanimously to adjourn.

• Approved LC as minutes signer (unanimous)
• Approved JLD as bill signer (unanimous)
• Removed O'Connor bill from Snack Shack account, clearing disputes
• Assigned Mellisa Schrock to ask Christie Bliss about direct deposit for AdminSports check
• Assigned LC to ask JMD who he has spoken to at schools regarding scholarship plan
• Assigned LC to ask Jarod Libby about youth basketball uniforms
• Decided to wait on scholarship grant decision until JMD response
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Board of Health

The Board of Health will consider the appointment of Jodee Coke as Inspector of Animals. The meeting includes a variance request for 54 Horse Pond Rd. and a review of trash abatements.

• Vote on appointment of Jodee Coke to Inspector of Animals
• Variance request for 54 Horse Pond Rd. by M. A. Elbag Engineering, Inc.
• Invoice for E. L. Harvey in the amount of $44,705.54
• Review and approval of submitted trash abatements
• Discussion of Trash/Recycling for FY26

The board appointed Jodee Coke as Inspector of Animals after a motion that was made, seconded, and unanimously approved. It approved all local variance requests submitted for the property at 54 Horsepond Road, including reductions in groundwater separation and septic bed size, and a testing period, with all members voting in favor. The board also approved a septic permit for a D‑Box replacement at 19 Whitney Road. The minutes from the February 25, 2025 meeting were approved and the meeting was formally closed, each by unanimous vote.

• Appointed Jodee Coke as Inspector of Animals (unanimous approval)
• Approved all local variance requests for 54 Horsepond Road (unanimous approval)
• Approved septic permit for D‑Box replacement at 19 Whitney Road
• Approved minutes of February 25, 2025 meeting (unanimous approval)
• Closed the March 25, 2025 meeting (unanimous approval)

Select Board

The Select Board will vote on the Annual Town Election Warrant for May 6, 2025, and consider appointments to the Senior Work-off Program, the 250th Celebration Committee, and the NVTHS School Committee. A license for USA Auto Sales will also be decided. The board will receive updates on the budget, a satellite emergency room, and electric vehicle charging station installation.

• Approval of Annual Town Election Warrant for May 6, 2025
• Appointment of Hans Onsager to the Senior Work-off Program
• Appointment of Andree Jean Jacques to the 250th Celebration Committee
• Joint Appointment of Brian Fulmer to the NVTHS School Committee
• USA Auto Sales License

The board appointed Hans Onsager to the Senior Work‑off Program, Andree Jean Jacques to the 250th Celebration Committee, and Brian Fulmer to the NVTHS School Committee, each motion passing 3‑0. It voted 3‑0 to restrict USA Auto Sales’ license to vehicle sales only until the 50‑vehicle limit is met, and approved the Annual Town Election Warrant for May 6 2025. The board also approved three treasury warrants—WPR25‑21 for $128,710.08, W25‑19 for $345,643.49, and W25‑19 No Check for $900,104.58—each passing unanimously.

• Appointed Hans Onsager to Senior Work‑off Program (3‑0)
• Appointed Andree Jean Jacques to 250th Celebration Committee (3‑0)
• Appointed Brian Fulmer to NVTHS School Committee (3‑0)
• Restricted USA Auto Sales license to sales only until 50‑vehicle limit met (3‑0)
• Approved Annual Town Election Warrant for May 6 2025 (3‑0)
• Approved Treasury Warrant PRW25‑21 for $128,710.08 (3‑0)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W25‑19 for $345,643.49 (3‑0)
• Approved Treasury Warrant W25‑19 No Check for $900,104.58 (3‑0)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a closed session under state law to discuss strategy regarding ongoing litigation in the case Keith Begun v. Patrice Garvin, et al. in Middlesex Superior Court. No other substantive business is on the agenda.

• Closed session to discuss strategy for Keith Begun v. Patrice Garvin, et al. (Middlesex Superior Court, C.A. No. 1981 CV 02849)

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will hold a regular meeting on March 19, 2025, at the Middle School library, with remote access via Zoom. The committee will vote on key financial items including a request to transfer funds from Excess & Deficiency to the FY26 budget, recertification of the FY26 budget, and approval of CAPS Collaborative membership for the 2025-2026 school year. Other votes include approval of an out-of-state prom location for the Class of 2026 and consent agenda items covering minutes and warrants totaling over $2.2 million.

• Vote to transfer funds from Excess & Deficiency to the FY26 budget
• Vote to recertify the FY26 budget
• Vote to approve CAPS Collaborative membership for 2025-2026
• Vote to approve Class of 2026 out-of-state prom location
• Consent agenda includes warrants: AP $315.38, $1,165,485.89; Payroll $22,112.95, $1,005,787.33

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss proposed amendments to Section 4.18 governing marijuana businesses. The board may also informally discuss accessory dwelling units and the Flood Plain Protection Overlay District. Administrative items include approving March 5 meeting minutes and a $31.75 invoice for a keyboard tray.

• Discussion of amendments to Section 4.18 (Marijuana Business)
• Possible informal discussion of ADUs and Flood Plain Protection Overlay District
• Approval of March 5, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of $31.75 invoice for keyboard tray
• Next meeting scheduled for April 2, 2025

The Board approved a new Section 4.18.7c amendment that permits interior drive‑through service for pre‑ordered marijuana sales, subject to police and board approval. It also approved changing Section 4.18.4b to extend marijuana business hours to 10:00 PM. Additional actions included adopting ADU permit language, accepting the draft Floodplain Overlay District warrant article, and approving prior meeting minutes and a $31.75 invoice.

• Approved Section 4.18.7c interior drive‑through amendment (5-0)
• Approved Section 4.18.4b hours extension to 10:00 PM (5-0)
• Approved ADU warrant article stating Building Inspector/Zoning Enforcement Officer may approve permits (5-0)
• Accepted draft Floodplain Overlay District warrant article with delegation change (5-0)
• Approved March 05, 2025 Planning Board minutes (5-0)
• Approved invoice #250337750 for $31.75 keyboard tray (5-0)
• Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting (5-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss budget requests for the Conservation Commission, Enhance Shirley, and Recreation. The body will also hold a discussion regarding Enterprise Funds budgets.

• Conservation Commission budget request
• Enhance Shirley budget request
• Recreation budget request
• Enterprise Funds budget discussion

The Finance Committee met on March 18, 2025, with 4 of 5 members present. They reviewed warrant article requests from the Conservation Commission ($10k for land acquisition), Recreation Commission ($3,700 for additional clerical hours), and Enhancing Shirley ($5k for holiday lighting and downtown improvements). No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Reviewed Conservation Commission request for $10k warrant article for Land Acquisition Funds
• Reviewed Recreation Commission request for $3,700 for additional clerical hours at $23.86/hr union rate
• Reviewed Enhancing Shirley request for $5k warrant article for holiday lighting and downtown improvements
• Heard Town Administrator report: 72% of budget used through Jan 31, 2025
• Noted that not all warrant requests can be fulfilled due to school budget increases
• Discussed that Shirley does not have a split tax rate; recommended same rate when economic development is under 30%

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review the treasurer and director reports. The meeting includes updates on the library budget, building, personnel, and programs.

• Review and signing of invoices
• Budget updates
• Building and personnel updates

Greenway Committee

The Shirley Greenway Committee will meet virtually on March 18, 2025, to discuss land protection and stewardship updates, including the Fredonian Park Restoration Project and a $35,000 earmark for an ADA engineering plan. Other topics include trail updates, the Open Space and Recreation Plan, and a regional invasives workshop.

• Fredonian Park Riparian Restoration Project Phase III with grant reports due March 21
• $35,000 FY25 earmark award for ADA engineering plan at Fredonian Park
• Pumpkin Brook Conservation Area stewardship partnership with MassWildlife for invasives mapping
• Update on Forest Legacy Project and Trail Cam Lending Program
• Regional Invasives Workshop scheduled for May 16

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will discuss a 30-acre land donation at 36 Groton Road and review certificates of compliance for 61 Little Turnpike Road. The body will also address enforcement orders regarding wetlands violations at 27 Hazen Road and 6 Oaks Landing.

• 30+/- ac donation to Shirley CC from GAD Realty Trust at 36 Groton Road
• Certificate of Compliance request for 61 Little Turnpike Road
• Enforcement order for fence installation and tree cutting at 27 Hazen Road
• Violation review for Beach Nourishment Project at 6 Oaks Landing
• Discussion of Fredonian Nature Center ADA Project

Recreation Commission

The Shirley Recreation Commission will review bills, minutes, and a financial update from the Town Accountant. A key discussion is a follow-up on the budget for the administrative assistant's salary, bonuses, and COLA. The board will also hear updates from youth sports groups, including a land swap for the Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd.

• Follow-up discussion on budget for administrative assistant salary, bonuses, and COLA
• Update on land swap for Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd
• Financial update from Town Accountant
• Updates from Penguins Swim Team, Shirley Youth Soccer, and basketball programs
• Review and approve bills and previous meeting minutes

The Recreation Commission approved all bills, holding back Challenger bills until inventory is received, and approved an extra $26 for Village Pizza for SYB celebrations. They discussed using a $25K grant for summer camp scholarships for Shirley residents and explored starting a summer travel basketball program under SRC insurance. The state informed the board that Longley Acres does not qualify for a land swap.

• Approved all bills, holding Challenger bills until inventory received (unanimous)
• Approved extra $26 for Village Pizza for SYB end-of-season celebrations (unanimous)
• Approved signing of 2/25/25 and 2/11/25 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved JMD to sign bills (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to review the Director's report and discuss the budget. The board will also receive an update on fundraising for new chairs for the Senior Center.

• Budget discussions
• Fundraising for Senior Center chairs
• Update on COA Board member opening

The Shirley Council on Aging board approved the minutes from its February 10, 2025 meeting as written. The director reported that due to federal funding cuts, there is now a waiting list of five for Meals on Wheels. The board discussed several program ideas, including a volunteer handyman for seniors, a book club, and a trip to Bob's Sugar Barn, but took no formal votes on these items.

• Approved the minutes of the February 10, 2025 COA board meeting as written.
• Noted a waiting list of 5 for Meals on Wheels due to federal funding cuts.
• Discussed getting a quote for recovering chairs in vinyl as an option to buying new ones.
• Discussed the possibility of a volunteer handyman for seniors for small jobs.
• Discussed potential new programs: MahJong, Book Club, antique show trip, trip to Bob's Sugar Barn, and getting a piano or keyboard for sing-a-longs.

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will vote to open and close the Annual Town Meeting Warrant for April 14, 2025, and appoint a dozen members to the 250th Celebration Committee along with an Animal Control Officer and a Senior Work-off Program participant. The Town Administrator will provide a budget update, discuss Chapter 90 road funds, and report on the Whitney Rd Culvert Project bid opening.

• Open and vote to close Annual Town Meeting Warrant for April 14, 2025
• Appointment of Asa Losurdo as Planning Board representative to Community Preservation Committee
• Appointment of 12 members to the 250th Celebration Committee
• Town Administrator budget update and Chapter 90 funds discussion
• Whitney Rd Culvert Project bid opening

The Select Board voted unanimously to open the Annual Town Meeting Warrant on March 10 and close it on April 14, 2025. They also made several appointments, including Asa Losurdo to the Community Preservation Committee, Jodee Coke as Animal Control Officer, and Stephen Longley to the Senior Work-off Program. The board approved multiple treasury warrants totaling over $1.2 million.

• Opened Annual Town Meeting Warrant, closing April 14, 2025 (2-0)
• Appointed Asa Losurdo to Community Preservation Committee (2-0)
• Appointed 11 members to 250th Celebration Committee (2-0)
• Appointed Jodee Coke as Animal Control Officer (2-0)
• Appointed Stephen Longley to Senior Work-off Program (2-0)
• Approved Warrant W25-17 Veterans for $8,317.52 (2-0)
• Approved Warrant PRW25-19 for $134,839.92 (2-0)
• Approved Warrant W25-18 ASRSD No Check for $848,097.08 (2-0)

Finance Committee

The Shirley Finance Committee is holding a full-day meeting on March 8, 2025, to review proposed budgets for multiple departments and schools. The review covers Nashoba Tech, Ayer Shirley District, Treasurer, Board of Health/Trash, Clerk, Police, Fire/Ambulance, DPW, Library, Council on Aging, and the Town Administrator's office.

• Review of Nashoba Tech and Ayer Shirley District school budgets
• Review of Police and Fire/Ambulance budgets
• Review of DPW budgets including Roads and Grounds, Snow and Ice, and Cemetery
• Review of Library and Council on Aging budgets
• Review of Town Administrator budgets including Legal, IT, Energy, and Debt

The Finance Committee met on March 8, 2025, to review proposed FY26 budgets from multiple town departments. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational, with department heads presenting their budget requests. The committee heard from Nashoba Tech, Ayer/Shirley schools, the Treasurer, Board of Health, Clerk, Police, Fire, DPW, Library, Council on Aging, and the Town Administrator.

• No formal decisions or votes were recorded during the meeting
• Reviewed Nashoba Tech's proposed FY26 budget increase of 4.66%
• Reviewed Ayer/Shirley school's request for a $255k increase in Shirley's portion
• Reviewed Treasurer's FY26 request for $46,780.50 increase and new Clerk position
• Noted trash program bids are due April 22, 2025
• Reviewed Police request for portable speed signs ($11,365) and 3 new vehicles ($75k each)
• Reviewed Fire Department request for $150k rubber roof and $6k truck painting
• Reviewed DPW need for dump truck replacements ($340-$380k each)

MART

The MART Advisory Board is meeting to discuss and potentially approve an updated authorizing resolution. The meeting also includes a period for general public comments.

• Vote on Updated Authorizing Resolution

Housing Committee

The Shirley Housing Committee will review and approve past meeting minutes, then discuss updates on a DLTA Grant application for the Housing Trust and preparation of a Community Preservation Act (CPC) grant application that may include rental assistance and energy conservation programs. The committee will also consider outreach efforts to survey low- and moderate-income households and receive updates from the Planning and Traffic Action Committees.

• Review and approve minutes from November 7, 2024 and January 9, 2025 meetings
• Update on application for DLTA Grant for the Housing Trust
• Discussion of CPC grant application components: rental assistance program in Ayer and Mass Save energy conservation support
• Outreach flyer to solicit needs of low- and moderate-income households
• Updates from Planning Committee and Traffic Action Committee

The Shirley Housing Committee met on March 6, 2025, and approved minutes from prior meetings. They discussed updates on the Affordable Housing Trust, including a planned CPC grant application for rental assistance, and reviewed Ayer's rental assistance program. No formal votes were taken on substantive decisions.

• Approved minutes from 11/7 and 1/9 meetings
• Discussed CPC grant application for rental assistance (submission planned next week)
• Reviewed Ayer rental assistance program policies
• Discussed survey formats for community outreach on rental assistance

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a pre-public hearing review of zoning bylaw amendments. This includes reviewing tables for Use Regulations and Dimensional Requirements.

• Review of zoning bylaw amendments
• Review of Use Regulations and Dimensional Requirements tables
• Approval of February 19, 2025 meeting minutes

The Planning Board voted unanimously to schedule a public hearing for April 16, 2025, on proposed zoning amendments covering accessory dwelling units, a floodplain overlay district, and marijuana business changes. Several other zoning updates were postponed to the fall special town meeting. The board also discussed but did not approve adding new tables to the zoning bylaw.

• Set public hearing for April 16, 2025 on ADU, floodplain, and marijuana bylaw amendments (4-0)
• Approved minutes from February 19, 2025 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)
• Postponed new dimensional and use regulation tables to fall town meeting
• Postponed adding definitions for Business Service Establishment, Self-Storage Facility, and Multi-Family Housing to fall town meeting

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will vote on certification of the FY26 budget and acceptance of 2024-2025 school year grants. They will also take a fourth read and vote on Policy FF regarding naming of new facilities. Ongoing business includes an update on the cell phone policy and a draft of the 2025-2026 school year calendar. The consent agenda includes warrants totaling approximately $1.32 million.

• Certification of the FY26 Budget (vote)
• Fourth Read and Vote on Policy FF: Naming New Facilities
• Update on Cell Phone Policy at ASRHS and ASRMS
• Acceptance of 2024-2025 School Year Grants to Date (vote)
• Draft of 2025-2026 School Year Calendar

Communication Committee

The Shirley Communication Committee will discuss its duties and priorities. The committee will also establish guidelines for the Town's Facebook page, covering where to repost items, how to respond to messages, and a posting schedule. No other specific actions or decisions are listed beyond routine procedural items.

• Discussion of committee duties and priorities
• Development of guidelines for Town Facebook page: reposting, responding, schedule
• Other unforeseen business as allowed by agenda posting

Conservation Commission

The Shirly Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to determine if a planned house addition at 7 Lake View Drive falls within the Wetlands Protection Act, as it is within 100 feet of a bordering vegetated wetland. The board will also review enforcement orders for alleged violations at 27 Hazen Road, 6 Oaks Landing, and Horse Pond Road, and discuss land management issues including unauthorized activity at Benjamin Hill Conservation Area and a potential land donation at 36 Groton Road.

• Public hearing for addition at 7 Lake View Drive within 100 ft of wetland
• Enforcement order for fence and tree cutting at 27 Hazen Road
• Violation review for beach nourishment at 6 Oaks Landing
• Culvert replacement project violation at Horse Pond Road by DPW
• Discussion of 30+ acre land donation at 36 Groton Road

The Shirley Conservation Commission approved a motion to submit draft warrant article(s) on the Conservation Land Acquisition Fund to the Select Board (4-1, with Chair McGuinness voting no). They also unanimously approved an agreement allowing the New England Society of American Foresters (NESAF) to conduct a field trip at Pumpkin Brook and Rich Tree Farm Conservation Areas. The request for determination of applicability for 7 Lake View Drive was withdrawn by the owner. Several enforcement matters were continued to future meetings.

• Approved minutes of February 11, 2025 (5-0)
• Submitted warrant article(s) on Conservation Land Acquisition Fund to Select Board (4-1)
• Approved agreement for NESAF field trip at Pumpkin Brook & Rich Tree Farm Conservation Areas (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:40 PM (5-0)

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to approve previous meeting minutes, hear the treasurer's and director's reports, and receive updates on budget, building, personnel, programs, and Friends of the Library. The agenda consists of standard administrative items with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Approval of previous month's meeting minutes
• Treasurer's report
• Director's report
• Updates on budget, building, personnel, programs, and Friends
• Review and sign invoices

Cultural Council

The Shirley Cultural Council will meet to discuss the duties and priorities of the committee with potential new members, and to begin planning for the 2026 grant cycle. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and setting the next meeting date. No specific grant amounts or funding decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion on committee duties and priorities with potential new members
• Planning for the 2026 grant cycle
• Approval of prior meeting minutes
• Setting next scheduled meeting date

The Shirley Cultural Council unanimously approved the November 13, 2024 meeting minutes. The council discussed its duties, priorities, and the grant application process for FY2025, noting that funds are in hand and notification letters have been sent. No new funding decisions were made; the council is in a holding pattern for FY2026 due to federal funding uncertainties.

• Approved November 13, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed FY2025 grant cycle; funds in hand, notifications sent
• Noted need for new treasurer for FY2025 grant cycle
• Held FY2026 funding decisions pending federal developments

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review bills, meeting minutes, and a financial update from the Town Accountant. The body will receive updates on several youth sports programs and a land swap for an Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd.

• Land swap update for Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd
• Financial update from Town Accountant
• Summer in Shirley program update
• Penguins Swim Team update
• Youth soccer and basketball updates

The Shirley Recreation Commission unanimously approved paying up to $5,800 to Village Pizza for Shirley Youth Basketball pizza parties. The commission also unanimously approved Keith Begun to sign bills. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were updates on summer programs, soccer, and basketball.

• Approved Keith Begun to sign bills (unanimous)
• Approved paying up to $5,800 to Village Pizza for youth basketball pizza parties (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Shirley Board of Health will meet on February 25, 2025. They will hear an update on 1 Catacunemaug Rd. Unit 3 and consider variance requests for 54 Horse Pond Road. Non-compliance at 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street will be reviewed. The board also plans to discuss the proposed bidding process for trash/recycling for fiscal year 2026.

• Update on 1 Catacunemaug Rd. Unit 3
• Variance requests for 54 Horse Pond Road
• Non-compliance at 189 Great Road
• Non-compliance at 30 Chapel Street
• Discussion of trash/recycling bidding process for FY26

The Board of Health reviewed concerns about water quality, pressure, and hot water at 1 Catacunemaug Road. It was determined that installing two hot water tanks and a new water line would address low pressure, with tanks expected within 2-3 weeks and the line in spring. The Board also discussed the Solid Waste/Recycling bidding process for FY 26-28 and approved the February 11, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved February 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Determined two hot water tanks and new water line needed at 1 Catacunemaug Road
• Set timeline: tanks within 2-3 weeks, water line in spring
• Discussed Solid Waste/Recycling bidding process for FY 26-28

Select Board

The Select Board will hear updates from Commonwealth Fusion, MRPC, and Thrive Cannabis. The board is also considering several appointments to the Enhance Shirley, Communications, and 250th Anniversary committees.

• Commonwealth Fusion Community Update
• Green Communities Presentation from MRPC
• Thrive Cannabis Update
• Appointments to Enhance Shirley, Communications, and 250th Anniversary committees
• Town Administrator report on DYLTA Grant Housing Trust

The Select Board unanimously authorized Bryan Sawyer to open negotiations for a host community agreement with Thrive Cannabis, which plans to offer cannabis delivery in Shirley. The board also made several appointments to town committees and approved two treasury warrants. The Green Communities presentation was tabled for a future date.

• Authorized Bryan Sawyer to open host community agreement negotiations with Thrive Cannabis (3-0)
• Appointed Thomas Jones to the Communications Committee (3-0)
• Appointed Candace King, Kayla Rose, Adeline Rodriguez, Troy Cooley, and Michelle Oelfke to the Enhance Shirley Committee (3-0)
• Appointed Meredith Marcinkewcz to the 250th Anniversary Committee (3-0)
• Approved Warrant W25-17 for $140,901.59 (3-0)
• Approved Warrant W25-17 No check for $99.96 (3-0)
• Approved the 2/10/2025 meeting minutes (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will vote on monthly motor vehicle excise and real estate abatement reports, and approve warrants for motor vehicle excise tax commitments. They will discuss FY2025 real estate and personal property abatement applications, and hold an executive session on tax abatements. New business includes a tax map update quote, a CAMA system upgrade, a contract RFP, and reassessments of parcels 10 A 1.1 and 17 D 4.

• Reassessments of parcels 10 A 1.1 and 17 D 4
• Approval of Warrant and Commitment for MV Excise Tax Commitments 2024-07 and 2025-01
• Discussion of FY2025 Real Estate and Personal Property Abatement Applications
• Executive session to discuss tax abatement applications
• RFP for FY2026-FY2028 contract bid

The Board of Assessors approved routine monthly reports, signed a $3,074.36 tax map update contract, and authorized a CAMA system upgrade. They also scheduled a bid opening for the FY2026-FY2028 assessment contract and changed ownership of a parcel to the Heirs of Paulina Max.

• Accepted January 23, 2025 meeting minutes
• Accepted January 23, 2025 executive session minutes
• Approved and signed January 2025 abatement and exemption reports
• Approved MV Excise Tax Commitments 2024-07 and 2025-01
• Approved 5 solar exemption applications and 1 FY2025 statutory exemption (17D)
• Signed AP5 CAMA system upgrade order form (Catalis)
• Scheduled bid opening for FY2026-FY2028 assessment contract for April 10, 2025
• Changed ownership of parcel 17 D 4 to Heirs of Paulina Max

Planning Board

The Shirley Planning Board will hold a public meeting to discuss several informal items, including a proposed change in use from a cleaners to a restaurant at 25 Main Street and expansion questions from BoomX Cannabis Co. The board will also discuss draft zoning bylaw updates, including a Use Regulations Table, Dimensional Requirements table, and new definitions. Administrative matters include reviewing legal ads from neighboring towns, approving January meeting minutes, and setting the next meeting date.

• Informal discussion: James Stephen, 25 Main Street, proposed change from cleaners to restaurant
• Informal discussion: BoomX Cannabis Co. business expansion questions
• Discussion of draft Use Regulations Table, Table of Dimensional Requirements, and new zoning definitions
• Review of Planning Board related legal ads from neighboring towns
• Approval and signing of meeting minutes from January 15, 2025

The Planning Board held an informal discussion with BoomX Cannabis Company about a proposed interior drive-through for product pick-up. The Board agreed that the proposal would be considered a drive-through under current zoning and supported a draft bylaw amendment to allow it under strict conditions. No formal votes were taken on this matter; it remains under discussion. The Board also discussed a potential restaurant use at 25 Main Street and reviewed draft zoning tables and definitions, with further discussion scheduled for March 5, 2025.

• Approved minutes from January 15, 2025 (5-0)
• Appointed Asa Losurdo as Planning Board representative to Community Preservation Committee (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:47 PM (5-0)

Finance Committee

The Shirley Finance Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss the school budget and potential funding for holiday lighting. Other items include reviewing meeting minutes, receiving a Town Administrator's report, and a Housing Committee update. The meeting is primarily a discussion session with no votes anticipated on these topics.

• Approval of meeting minutes from January 14, 2025
• Town Administrator's report on municipal finances
• Housing Committee update on local housing initiatives
• School budget discussion for upcoming fiscal year
• Holiday lighting potential budget and funding options

The Finance Committee reviewed year-to-date revenues and expenses, noting the Treasurer/Collector line is 139% over budget due to temporary personnel costs, with ARPA funds covering one-time expenses. They also reviewed preliminary department budgets, discussed school budget increases, and approved the January minutes. No formal votes were taken on budget approvals.

• Approved January meeting minutes
• Noted Treasurer/Collector expenses at 139% of budget, $21,900 over due to temporary staffing
• Noted ARPA funds will cover one-time expenses
• Scheduled Saturday budget reviews for March 8, 2025

Greenway Committee

The committee is reviewing updates on land protection projects and stewardship grants. Members will discuss funding applications for the Community Preservation Committee and progress on the Fredonian Park Restoration Project.

• FY25 $35K Earmark Award for Fredonian Park ADA Engineering Plan
• NSN Wild & Scenic Rivers Stewardship Council grants for Fredonian Park Riparian Restoration Project Phase III and Riparian Land Stewardship Outreach Project
• Community Preservation Committee funding applications due March 1
• Pumpkin Brook CA stewardship partnership with MassWildlife
• North County Land Trust Landholder Workshop on April 2

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY26 budget, then immediately convene a regular session. The committee will vote on a policy for naming new facilities (fourth read) and on submitting a Statement of Interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority for an elementary school project. Consent agenda includes warrants totaling approximately $1.9 million.

• FY26 Public Budget Hearing
• Policy FF: Naming New Facilities – fourth read and vote
• Approval to submit Statement of Interest to MSBA for an elementary school project – vote
• AP Warrant 1111 dated 01/31/2025 for $827,911.74
• Payroll Warrant 16 dated 01/24/2025 for $1,071,149.36

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold hearings on housing code violations at three properties, review trash abatements, and discuss interest on unpaid trash bills with a possible vote. They will also address ongoing non-compliance at 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street, and review invoices from W.B. Mason.

• Housing code violation hearing at 1 Catacunemaug Rd Unit 3
• Housing code violation hearings at 1 Center Rd Unit 3 and 19 Front St Unit B
• Trash abatement review and approval
• Discussion on interest on unpaid trash bills – vote may be taken
• Non-compliance matters: 189 Great Road and 30 Chapel Street

The Shirley Board of Health voted unanimously to impose a 10% interest charge on trash bills that are 30 days overdue. They also approved a septic variance for 158 Groton Road, reviewed trash abatements, and discussed ongoing water pressure issues at 1 Catacunemaug Road Unit 3.

• Approved 10% interest on trash bills 30 days overdue (unanimous)
• Approved septic variance for 158 Groton Road (unanimous)
• Approved trash abatements as reviewed
• Approved meeting minutes of January 14, 2025 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Shirley Conservation Commission will review minutes and discuss several enforcement orders for wetlands violations at properties including 27 Hazen Road, 22 Myles Lane, 6 Oaks Landing, and Horse Pond Road. They will also consider a request for determination of applicability for vegetation management by MBTA/Keolis, and discuss a potential 30+ acre land donation at 36 Groton Road. Additional items include updates on the Longley Acres community garden and Greenway Committee projects.

• Enforcement orders for fence/tree cutting at 27 Hazen Road, driveway/chicken coop at 22 Myles Lane, beach nourishment at 6 Oaks Landing, and culvert replacement at Horse Pond Road
• Request for Certificate of Compliance for 61 Little Turnpike Road (OOC #284-0418)
• Request for Determination of Applicability for MBTA/Keolis vegetation management along right-of-way
• Discussion of 30+ acre land donation at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust
• Land management updates at Benjamin Hill Conservation Area and Pumpkin Brook Link Conservation Area

The Commission unanimously approved a Determination of Applicability for Keolis to verify vegetation management maps along the MBTA right-of-way. It also approved the January 28 meeting minutes. Several enforcement and land management items were discussed but no other formal votes were taken.

• Approved January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Determination of Applicability for Keolis MBTA right-of-way vegetation map verification (5-0)
• Continued Certificate of Compliance #284-0418 for 61 Little Turnpike Road to February 25 meeting

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review financial updates and bills. The body will receive status updates on several youth sports programs and a land swap for the Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd.

• Land swap for Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd
• Financial update from Town Accountant
• Summer in Shirley update
• Penguins Swim Team update
• Shirley Youth Soccer, Basketball, and Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer/Basketball updates

The Recreation Commission voted 3-1 to uphold a suspension for a youth basketball player after hearing from a parent about behavioral incidents. The board will notify the family within days. Other business included approving bill signing and minutes, and accepting a discount on soccer field paint.

• Approved JMD to sign bills (unanimous)
• Approved JMD to review and sign minutes (unanimous)
• Voted 3-1 to uphold youth basketball player's suspension
• Decided to pay referees in full, accept paint discount for soccer fields
• Worked with Accounting to reverse payments and remove snack shack charge

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer Shirley Regional School Committee will attend the Shirley Select Board meeting. The purpose of the attendance is to present the FY26 Budget for the Ayer Shirley Regional School District.

• Presentation of the FY26 Budget

Select Board

The Shirley Select Board will hear a presentation on the Ayer Shirley Regional School District's FY26 preliminary budget, which proposes a $1.01 million increase in the operating assessment for Shirley. The board will also consider a National Grid pole hearing, an electric rate contract for town offices, and appointments to the Senior Work-off program. Additionally, a $35,000 earmark for Fredonian Park accessibility will be discussed, along with Roux's Market license renewal and a proclamation for Armed Forces Day. Routine items include approval of treasury warrants and meeting minutes.

• Ayer Shirley Regional School District FY26 preliminary budget; Shirley's operating assessment proposed at $8,907,632 (increase of $253,378 from FY25)
• National Grid pole hearing
• Town offices electric rate contract
• Appointment of Marie Elwyn, Pamela Nichols, Paulette Holbein, Melody-Ann Fetik, and Meredith Strang to Senior Work-off program
• Fredonian Park accessibility earmark of $35,000

The Select Board approved the National Grid reconductor project on Shirley Road, suspended Roux's Market's license pending payment by Feb. 18, and approved appointments to the Senior Work-Off Program. They also authorized the town administrator to negotiate an electric rate contract and approved four treasury warrants. The board heard a preliminary FY2026 budget presentation from the Ayer Shirley Regional School District.

• Approved National Grid reconductor project on Shirley Road (unanimous)
• Suspended Roux's Market license effective Feb. 18 pending payment of outstanding dues (unanimous)
• Appointed Marie Elwyn, Pamela Nichols, Paulette Holbein, Melody-Ann Fetik, and Meredith Strang to Senior Work-Off Program (unanimous)
• Authorized Town Administrator Bryan Sawyer to negotiate electric rate contract with Orlando Pacheco (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant W25-16 for $332,202.93 (2-0)
• Approved Warrant W25-16 No Check for $1,468.33 (2-0)
• Approved Warrant W25-16 No Check ASRSD for $721,187.33 (2-0)
• Approved Warrant W25-16 No Check U.S. Ba for $21,100.00 (2-0)

Council on Aging

This is a regular monthly meeting of the Shirley Council on Aging. The board will consider approving prior minutes, receive a director report, get an update on Friends fundraising for new chairs at the Senior Center, discuss program planning, and address a board member opening.

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Update on Friends fundraising for chairs for the Senior Center
• Update on COA Board member opening
• Program planning discussion

The Shirley Council on Aging met and approved the January 13, 2025 meeting minutes. The board set the Spring Fling for 6:30-9:00, discussed ways to increase attendance at senior breakfasts, and reviewed the budget ahead of the May 12 Town Meeting. A painting class was suggested for March 11, and a Safe Driver Training by AARP is scheduled for April 29.

• Approved January 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Set Spring Fling time to 6:30-9:00
• Agreed to explore speaker for Chip's breakfast on 4/28
• Kristen to meet with Select Board and Finance Committee on budget
• Scheduled AARP Safe Driver Training for 4/29
• Discussed offering painting class on March 11

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer Shirley Regional School Committee will vote on third-read policies including naming new facilities and second-read revisions to graduation requirements and competency determination. They will also receive an update on the FY26 preliminary budget and approve consent agenda items including warrants totaling over $1.9 million. Public comment is permitted.

• FY26 Preliminary Budget Update and Discussion
• Policy FF: Naming New Facilities – third read and vote
• Proposed revision of Policy IKF Graduation Requirements – second read and vote
• Proposed revision of Policy IKF-A Competency Determination – second read and vote
• Consent agenda warrants: AP Warrant 1104 for $857,267.71 and Payroll Warrant 15 for $1,084,021.95

Conservation Commission

The Shirley Conservation Commission will review enforcement actions for wetlands violations, discuss a proposed 30-acre land donation at 36 Groton Road, and consider the FY2026 budget. They will also take up a request for determination at 22 Myles Lane and a certificate of compliance for 61 Little Turnpike Road. A public notice for National Grid's Yearly Operational Plan and herbicide application is open for comment.

• Proposed donation of 30+ acres at 36 Groton Road from GAD Realty Trust to the Conservation Commission
• Enforcement orders for 27 Hazen Road (fence/tree cutting), 22 Myles Lane (driveway/chicken coop), 6 Oaks Landing (beach nourishment), and Horse Pond Road culvert replacement
• Request for Determination of Applicability at 22 Myles Lane to remove gravel parking and restore wetlands with tree removal for solar
• National Grid 2025 Yearly Operational Plan public notice and 21-day herbicide application notification
• FY2026 Conservation Commission Budget discussion

The Commission approved a Determination of Applicability for 22 Myles Lane allowing removal of a gravel area, tree removal, and a chicken coop near wetlands. They also approved the FY2026 budget, accepted the Lake Shirley annual report, approved fluridone treatment for fanwort, and approved MassWildlife holding a conservation restriction on 36 Groton Road.

• Approved Determination of Applicability for 22 Myles Lane (4-0, Woodward recused)
• Approved FY2026 Conservation Commission budget (5-0)
• Accepted Lake Shirley annual report (5-0)
• Approved fluridone treatment for fanwort (5-0)
• Approved MassWildlife holding conservation restriction on 36 Groton Road (5-0)
• Approved registration fees for MACC conference for Mike and Jen (5-0)
• Approved minutes for Sept 24, 2024 and Dec 10, 2024 (5-0 each)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review bills, approve minutes, and receive a financial update from the Town Accountant. They will hear updates on several youth programs, including a discussion on a potential land swap for the Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd. Additionally, they will discuss an end-of-season party for Shirley Youth Basketball.

• Review and approve bills
• Financial update from Town Accountant
• Update on land swap for Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd
• Discuss end-of-season party for Shirley Youth Basketball
• Penguins Swim Team update

The Shirley Recreation Commission met on January 28, 2025, and discussed several programs. They approved bill signing and minutes review procedures. The board discussed the youth soccer coach shortage and the possibility of making the program gender-specific, but no final decision was made. They also reviewed plans for basketball end-of-season events and summer program funding.

• Approved JMD to sign bills (unanimous)
• Approved JLD to review and sign minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed youth soccer coach recruitment, no formal action
• Discussed gender-specific soccer option, no decision
• Planned basketball end-of-season events for Feb 25-28
• Discussed using $25,000 state funds for one-week summer camp intervals
• Agreed to follow up on land swap with DCAMM
• Adjourned at 8:37 PM (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss grant applications for the Summer in Shirley Program and the Housing Trust. The board is also considering a motion to continue a National Grid poll hearing and several appointments to town committees and the Senior work-off program.

• National Grid poll hearing motion to continue
• Summer in Shirley Program Grant
• Housing Trust Grant Application
• STAC 4 Way Traffic Stop discussion
• Appointments to Communications Committee and Senior work-off program

The Select Board unanimously approved the creation of the Enhancing Shirley Committee with 5-7 members, allowed STAC to pursue a four-way stop grant, and allowed the Housing Committee to apply for a Housing Trust Grant. They also approved appointments to the Communications Committee and the Senior Work-off Program, and approved multiple treasury warrants totaling over $874,000. The National Grid poll hearing was continued to a future meeting.

• Approved Enhancing Shirley Committee with 5-7 members (3-0)
• Allowed STAC to pursue Four Way Stop Grant (3-0)
• Allowed Housing Committee to apply for Housing Trust Grant (3-0)
• Approved Holly Haase and Mellisa Schrock to Communications Committee (3-0)
• Approved 23 appointments to Senior Work-off Program (3-0)
• Approved Warrant W25-14 Liberty Chevrolet $89,332.36 (3-0)
• Approved Warrant W25-16 $136,407.74 (3-0)
• Approved Warrant PRW25-17 $130,196.78 (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review December reports for real estate, personal property, and motor vehicle excise abatements. The board will also discuss the FY2026 departmental budget and the property assessment for 29 Clark Road.

• FY2025 Real Estate, Personal Property, and CPA Abatement reports
• Motor Vehicle Excise Warrant and Commitment 2024-06
• Solar and Statutory Exemption applications
• FY2026 Departmental Budget
• Property assessment for 29 Clark Road

The Board of Assessors approved the proposed FY2026 departmental budget as written, and approved four FY2025 property tax abatement applications in executive session. They also signed various abatement, exemption, and motor vehicle excise reports, and discussed the assessment of 29 Clark Road with no action taken.

• Approved FY2026 Departmental Budget as written
• Approved 4 FY2025 abatement applications (in executive session)
• Approved and signed December 2024 motor vehicle excise abatement report
• Approved and signed FY2025 real estate, personal property, and CPA abatement reports
• Approved and signed 3 solar exemption applications and 2 statutory exemption applications
• Approved and signed FY2025 omitted and revised warrant for 42 A 1S Solar Pilot
• Approved and signed FY2025 apportioned assessment for 61 Little Turnpike Rd

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to enter an executive session to discuss the Bassett v. Town matter in Middlesex Superior Court (C.A. no. 2481 CV 03017). The session is held privately to avoid detrimental effects on the Town's litigation position.

• Executive session regarding Bassett v. Town, Middlesex Superior Court C.A. no. 2481 CV 03017

Hazen Memorial Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review the treasurer and director reports. The session includes updates on the library budget, building, personnel, and programs.

• Treasurer's report
• Director's report
• Budget and building updates
• Review and signing of invoices

Greenway Committee

The Shirley Greenway Committee will meet virtually to discuss ongoing land protection and stewardship projects, including the Fredonian Park riparian restoration and a trail camera lending program. Updates will be provided on the Open Space and Recreation Plan, the Housing Committee, and local trails. Public comments will be accepted.

• Discussion of Fredonian Park Riparian Restoration Project, Phase III and related signage
• Update on Trail Cam Lending Program and Land Protection Grant/Amendment Request
• Forest Legacy Project and Invasives Subcommittee updates
• Stewardship partnership with MassWildlife for Pumpkin Brook Conservation Area invasives mapping
• Update on Ray Farrar Estate Parcel ID# 69-A-2 for land acquisition

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on renaming Mosland Drive to Landry Lane. Members will also discuss zoning bylaw amendments for the May 2025 Annual Town Meeting and a grant deadline with the MRPC.

• Public hearing to rename Mosland Drive to Landry Lane
• Discussion of zoning bylaw amendments regarding Floodplain and ADUs
• District Local Technical Assistance Grant (DLTA) for February 4th deadline
• Lowell Publishing Group invoice for $140.46 for a legal ad

The Planning Board held a public hearing and unanimously approved renaming the private way Mosland Drive to Landry Lane, with notification to town departments. They also discussed potential zoning amendments for the May 2025 Town Meeting, including updates to the Floodplain Overlay District and Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaws, but took no final action on these items. The board unanimously agreed not to recommend any member as the Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization town representative, and approved several administrative items including meeting minutes and a legal ad invoice.

• Approved renaming Mosland Drive to Landry Lane (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for road name change (5-0)
• Approved Lowell Publishing Group invoice for $140.46 (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from Nov 13, Dec 4, and Dec 18, 2024 (5-0 each)
• Unanimously agreed not to recommend a Planning Board member as MMPO town representative
• Voted to cancel February 5, 2025 meeting unless important item arises (5-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss a variance request for 158 Groton Road, non-compliance issues at 30 Chapel Street Unit B and 189 Great Road, and testing frequency at Apple Orchards Parcel. They will also review trash abatement applications and approve minutes from November 2024.

• Variance request at 158 Groton Road by Bruce Ringwall/GPR Engineering
• Non-compliance discussion for 30 Chapel Street Unit B and 189 Great Road
• Testing frequency discussion at Apple Orchards Parcel with Murali Talluri
• Review/approve trash abatement applications
• Approval of November 12, 2024 meeting minutes

The Shirley Board of Health approved trash abatements, a reduced testing frequency for Apple Orchards Parcel K, and a variance for groundwater testing at 158 Groton Road. They also addressed ongoing non-compliance at properties owned by Kent Leung, setting a 14-day deadline and a February 3, 2025 inspection.

• Approved trash abatements
• Approved testing every other year for Apple Orchards Parcel K (unanimous)
• Approved variance for groundwater testing at 158 Groton Road (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 12, 2024
• Approved correspondence
• Set 14-day deadline for Kent Leung to address violations at 189 Great Road
• Scheduled inspection for February 3, 2025 at 189 Great Road

Finance Committee

The Shirley Finance Committee will discuss several topics including a 40B project, a school budget update, and planning for upcoming budget meetings. The meeting will also include a Town Administrator's report and a Housing Committee update. No votes or decisions are specified on the agenda.

• Discussion of 40B project
• School budget update
• Budget meeting planning
• Town Administrator's report
• Housing Committee update

The Finance Committee approved the December minutes and reviewed year-to-date revenues and expenses, noting the Treasurer/Collector line is 114% over budget due to unforeseen personnel costs, with ARPA funds covering one-time expenses. The committee discussed the upcoming trash contract rebid, a potential housing trust via a DLTA grant, and expressed concerns about the Ayer-Shirley school budget request exceeding available funds. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Approved December meeting minutes
• Scheduled budget review meetings with departments from February 1 to March 15
• Planned a marathon Saturday for department budget reviews
• Directed Town Administrator to seek school budget details for next meeting

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will review financial updates and bills. The body will receive updates on several youth sports programs and discuss a land swap for the Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd.

• Land swap for Ayer Shirley Youth Soccer field on Wilde Rd
• Review and approval of bills
• Financial update from Town Accountant
• End of season party discussion for Shirley Youth Basketball

The Shirley Recreation Commission met on January 14, 2025, and approved Jay Duffner to sign bills and Linda Cournoyer to sign minutes, both unanimously. The board discussed updates on the Penguins Swim Team, Summer in Shirley, youth soccer and basketball, and a potential pickleball facility. No major policy decisions were made; most items were informational or administrative.

• Approved Jay Duffner to sign bills (unanimous)
• Approved Linda Cournoyer to sign minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:20 PM (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Shirley Council on Aging will review minutes from the last meeting, hear a director's report on the budget and efforts to open the Senior Center on Fridays, and receive an update from the Friends group on fundraising for chairs. The board will also discuss program planning and a board member vacancy.

• Discussion of budget and effort to open Senior Center on Fridays
• Update on Friends fundraising for chairs for the Senior Center
• Program planning
• Update on COA Board member opening
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

The Shirley Council on Aging voted to discontinue Monday lunches beginning in February due to staffing challenges. The board also discussed recruiting backup cooks and reviewing Loaves & Fishes delivery logistics, with plans to explore alternatives. A potential new board member was identified, and the next meeting is scheduled for February 10.

• Approved discontinuing Monday lunches starting February
• Approved minutes of December 9, 2024 meeting as written
• Discussed recruiting backup cooks for lunch program
• Reviewed Loaves & Fishes delivery challenges; exploring options with churches and Shirley Friendship Fund

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee will review affordable housing resources and implementation strategies for the Housing Policy Plan. Members will also discuss the Housing Trust and the MBTA Communities Law following a Town Meeting review.

• Affordable housing units and Housing Policy Plan implementation strategies
• Housing Trust discussion
• Review of Town Meeting regarding MBTA Communities Law
• Village traffic problems and 2017 traffic study
• Updates from Traffic Committee and Planning Board

The Shirley Housing Committee approved the minutes from the October 3 meeting and discussed several initiatives. They decided to apply for a Direct Local Technical Assistance (DLTA) grant from the MRPC, with the application due February 4th. The committee also discussed applying for CPA funding for a small project, such as temporary rental assistance, with an application due in March. No final decisions were made on these grant applications.

• Approved minutes of October 3 meeting (unanimous)
• Agreed to submit DLTA grant application to MRPC (due Feb 4)
• Discussed applying for CPA funding for rental assistance (no vote)

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee

The Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee will vote on a proposed athletic user fee increase and a policy for naming new facilities. They will also discuss FY26 budget and building rentals. Public comment is allowed.

• Vote on proposed athletic user fee increase
• Approval of AP warrant 1091 for $269,765.29 and payroll warrant 13 for $1,075,912.46
• Second read and vote on Policy FF: Naming New Facilities
• Update on building rentals from Director of Finance
• FY26 budget discussions with Superintendent and Director of Finance

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will hold a joint meeting with the Select Board to discuss the Wilde Road Soccer Fields. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda includes only this discussion item.

• Discussion of Wilde Road Soccer Fields in joint meeting with Select Board

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss a proposal from the Recreation Commission to pursue a 10-year lease for the state-owned Wilde Road fields. The commission seeks stability to make infrastructure improvements, such as irrigation, for youth soccer programs.

• Proposal to secure a long-term lease for Wilde Road soccer fields
• Approval of a contract for the Front Street Complete Streets Project
• One-day liquor licenses for Shirley Rod and Gun Club for 12 dates in 2025
• Appointments of Nancy Landry, Carolyn LaRoche, and Judy Stanislaw to the Senior work-off program
• Town Administrator reports on budget, Nashoba Valley Medical Center funding, and a Mass DOT grant for MART

The Select Board unanimously approved a contract for the Front Street Complete Streets Project, with a bid of roughly $616,000, and construction to begin in the spring. The board also approved a one-day liquor license for the Shirley Rod and Gun Club for multiple dates in 2025, and appointed three individuals to the Senior Work-off program. Treasury warrants totaling over $750,000 were approved. The Recreation Commission presented a proposal to pursue a long-term lease for the Wilde Road soccer fields, but no decision was made; the board requested more information on zoning.

• Approved Front Street Complete Streets Project contract (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Shirley Rod and Gun Club for 12 dates in 2025 (3-0)
• Appointed Nancy Landry to Senior Work-off program (3-0)
• Appointed Carolyn LaRoche to Senior Work-off program (3-0)
• Appointed Judy Stanislaw to Senior Work-off program (3-0)
• Approved treasury warrants PRW25-13 ($138,035.20), PRW25-14 ($136,399.40), W25-13 Little Turnpike Rd ($10,000.00), W25-13 Stanley Roofing ($39,455.40), W25-14 ($294,862.32), W25-14 No Check ($8,115.18), PRW25-15 ($126,520.50) (3-0 each)