Southborough public meetings in 2022

Housing Authority

The Board approved a two-year and nine-month management agreement with the Framingham Housing Authority. The Board also approved the revised 2023 budget and several project requisitions. Accounts payable totaling $107,459.11 were approved.

• Approved management agreement with Framingham Housing Authority for two years and nine months (Unanimous)
• Approved revised 2023 budget for submission to DHCD (Unanimous)
• Approved accounts payable of $107,459.11 (Unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 for fish #277049 (Unanimous)
• Approved Small Projects Requisition Form of $7,795 for fish #277049 (Unanimous)
• Approved Small Project Requisition Form of $26,600 for fish #277049 (Unanimous)
• Accepted Certificate of Final Completion for fish #277049 (Unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of November 9, 2022 (Unanimous)

Open Space Preservation Commission

The commission reviewed updates for St. Mark’s Street Park and Chestnut Hill Farm. Members discussed a proposed budget increase to $5,000 and the need to appoint a representative to the CPC committee. No formal votes on projects or budget were recorded.

• Tabled June meeting minutes
• Proposed annual budget increase to $5,000
• Identified need to appoint a member to the CPC committee

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee approved two budget options, including a request for a full-time position. The committee also voted to hire Claire Reynolds as the interim EDC coordinator for 10 hours per week.

• Approved two budget options (6-0-0)
• Approved hiring Claire Reynolds as interim EDC coordinator (6-0-0)
• Assigned members to boards and departments for outreach regarding the full-time role
• Postponed approval of October 26 and November 14, 2022 minutes

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee approved a change of scope for the Southborough Town House Restoration Project. The committee decided to restore existing windows and install low-profile storm windows rather than replacing them entirely to reduce costs and preserve historic fabric.

• Approved change order to restore existing Town House windows with an updated MOU (5-0)

Southborough Stewardship Committee

The committee approved the November 30, 2022 meeting minutes. Members detailed a comprehensive list of edits for the Breakneck Hill Conservation Land (BHCL) map and agreed upon remaining apple tree pruning work.

• Approved November 30, 2022 minutes (4-0)
• Agreed to remaining apple tree pruning work
• Requested BHCL map be scaled to poster size for kiosk and shed installation

Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds will consider a DPW capital item for a tractor for Cemetery/Recreation use, discuss posting oil assistance on the website, and receive a financial update. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and setting the next meeting date.

• Consider DPW Capital item for FY24 – attachment for tractor for Cemetery/Recreation use.
• Consider posting oil assistance on website.
• Financial update.

The Board approved the minutes from November 9, 2022. The board tabled a request to fund a $37,746 tractor aerator for the DPW pending further information on cost-sharing between the Recreation Revolving Fund and Cemetery Trust Funds. No formal votes were taken on proposed energy cost assistance advertising or the creation of new trust funds.

• Approved November 9, 2022 minutes (3-0)
• Tabled funding for $37,746 tractor aerator attachment

Board of Assessors

The Board accepted actual tax commitments for Fiscal Year 2023 and approved several excise tax actions. It awarded a personal property valuation contract to Real Estate Research Consultants, Inc. and signed a software upgrade agreement.

• Approved FY23 tax commitments including $46,395,941.56 for Real Estate (all in favor)
• Approved 13 excise tax abatements totaling $1,441.34 (all in favor)
• Accepted excise tax commitment #2022-06 for $49,966.03 covering 359 vehicles (all in favor)
• Awarded FY24-FY26 personal property valuation contract to Real Estate Research Consultants, Inc. for $46,600, contingent on no other quotes by 12/29/22 (all in favor)
• Accepted $8,000 quote from RRC for FY24 utility company valuation and appraisals (all in favor)
• Signed Patriot Software AP-5 upgrade contract
• Approved $1,610.70 PILOT payment letter for Southborough Housing Authority
• Accepted November 29, 2022 meeting minutes (all in favor)

Advisory Committee

The committee held a joint meeting to discuss a proposed athletic facility upgrade at Algonquin Regional High School and the FY2024 recommended Capital budget. No formal votes were taken on the project or budget; the committee focused on financial projections and planning for the March 2023 Town Meeting.

• Agreed to keep personnel adjustments separate from salary increases for discussion with the Personnel Board
• Modified the January 28, 2023 budget meeting schedule to remove Conservation Commission, Town Accountant, Select Board, and Building/Zoning Board of Appeals, and add Recreation
• Approved adjournment of the Capital Planning Committee meeting (4-0-0)
• Approved adjournment of the Advisory Committee meeting (5-0-0)

Southborough Youth Commission

The Commission approved an amended checklist for onboarding new members. The board also reviewed the FY24 budget draft and discussed a salary study recommendation to upgrade the Administrative position to Business Manager.

• Approved amended Onboarding Checklist for new members (unanimous)
• Approved October 15, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board approved several expenditures using ARPA funds, including website upgrades and police body camera storage. The Board also set a new speed limit for Parkerville Road and appointed new members to town commissions.

• Approved $51,946.55 in ARPA funds for town website upgrades (5-0-0)
• Approved $38,922.72 in ARPA funds for police camera data storage and warranties (5-0-0)
• Allocated $6,500 in returned ARPA funds to the general tax relief category (5-0-0)
• Appointed Leslie Naditch to the Open Space Preservation Commission (5-0-0)
• Appointed Gerald Capra to the Council on Aging (5-0-0)
• Set speed limit for all of Parkerville Road at 25 mph (5-0-0)
• Continued RZND Motors Class II Auto License hearing to January 3, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Approved NECC payment in lieu of taxes and donation for Youth & Family Services (5-0-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a Major Site Plan for a change of use to a storage facility at 250 Turnpike Road. The approval requires updated lighting plans and a condition that existing trees remain.

• Closed public hearing for 250 Turnpike Road Major Site Plan Approval (4-0)
• Approved Major Site Plan Approval for 250 Turnpike Road change of use to storage facility (4-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Board approved the FY2024 library budget, which includes an overall 5% increase due to salary changes. Trustees also approved the amended minutes from the November 18th meeting.

• Approved amended minutes from November 18th meeting (6-0)
• Approved FY2024 library budget (5-0, 1 absent)

Golf Course Committee

The committee approved the November 3 meeting minutes. Tee box movements for holes 6 and 7 were deferred to spring 2023 after initial bids were dismissed for being too high. Members discussed potential off-season use of the property and a $450,000 estimate for a new irrigation system.

• Approved November 3 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred tee box movements for holes 6 and 7 to spring 2023

Housing Authority

The meeting scheduled for December 14, 2022, was cancelled. No substantive decisions were made.

Advisory Committee

The committee approved a temporary increase in the golf revolving fund spending limit to cover hole improvements. Members also reviewed departmental budgets and a proposal for Hopkinton to connect to the MWRA via Southborough.

• Approved increase of golf revolving fund spending limit from $75k to $100k for fiscal year 23 (4-0-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 9/21, 10/13, and 11/15 (5-0-0)

Health Department

The Board agreed to roll over COVID-19 Case Investigation and Contract Tracing grant funds to retain staff through Fiscal Year 2024 and increase the regional epidemiologist's hours. The Board also approved the meeting minutes from June 15, 2022. Other discussions included grant updates, Narcan training, and a potential sunscreen dispenser partnership.

• Approved rolling over COVID-19 grant funds to keep staff through FY2024
• Approved increasing Isabella Caruso's hours to take on program coordinator roles
• Approved discontinuing the COVID-19 dashboard at the end of the year
• Approved meeting minutes from June 15, 2022

Southborough Trails Committee

The committee approved the November 15 minutes and planned a series of winter hikes. Members discussed updating the MassTrails Grant scope and budget and agreed to write a project bid for a project manager, boardwalk, and bridges to be released in January.

• Approved minutes from 11/15/2022 (3-0)
• Decided to conduct a snowshoe hike in January or February
• Agreed to write a project bid for project manager, boardwalk, footbridge, bog bridge, and nature surface trail by mid to late January
• Scheduled weekly meetings in January to work on the project bid

Municipal Technology Committee

The committee will discuss the FY24 MIS budget and a version with managed service provider costs, along with a request for minutes and a list of accomplishments. No specific decisions or votes are noted in the agenda.

• FY24 MIS budget review (two versions)
• Request for minutes approval
• Review of committee accomplishments

The committee approved the minutes from the November 7 meeting and agreed on a list of annual accomplishments. Members discussed potential budget additions for website customization and analytics, as well as a proposal for a new cloud-based GIS system.

• Approved minutes of Nov 7 meeting (4-0)
• Agreed on three committee accomplishments for the year
• Voted to enter executive session to discuss cyber security

St. Mark’s Street Park Working Group

The working group approved an amended Interim Report for submission to the Select Board. The group also approved the minutes from the November 12, 2022, public forum.

• Approved Interim Report as Amended (7-0)
• Approved November 12, 2022 minutes (6-0-1)
• Tabled December 2, 2022 minutes
• Tabled December 8, 2022 minutes
• Tabled December 13, 2022 minutes

Recreation Commission

The Commission unanimously approved the fiscal year 2024 budget and a new part-time salary schedule (Schedule F). They also approved the hiring of a new employee and specific pay rate increases based on state minimum wage changes.

• Approved FY2024 Recreation Department budget (4-0)
• Approved hiring L. Wagoner at $30/hour (4-0)
• Approved proposed part-time pay Schedule F (4-0)
• Approved part-time pay rate changes based on state minimum wage (4-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 10/18/22 (4-0)
• Tabled Lundblad Study discussion for a few months

Health Department

The Board of Health increased the spending limit for the Immunization Emergency Dispensing Clinic account to $15,000. The Board also approved a public service announcement regarding respiratory illnesses, flu, and RSV for residents. Additionally, the Board removed funding for per diems from the ARPA request list.

• Approved minutes from 11/15/22 meeting (3-0)
• Removed funding for per diems from ARPA request list (3-0)
• Increased Immunization Emergency Dispensing Clinic account to $15,000 (3-0)
• Maintained Inspectional Services account at $100,000 (3-0)
• Maintained Tobacco account at $4,000 (3-0)
• Approved respiratory illness, flu, and RSV PSA for residents (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a minor site plan for a Pilates studio at 1 Boston Road and endorsed an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan to merge lots at 241-245 Turnpike Road. Several other public hearings for projects on Turnpike Road were continued to future dates.

• Approved Minor Site Plan for Pilates Studio at 1 Boston Road (4-0)
• Endorsed Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for 241-245 Turnpike Road (4-0)
• Extended approval process for 250 Turnpike Road storage facility to January 13, 2023 (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for 250 Turnpike Road to December 16, 2022 (4-0)
• Continued public hearings for 200 Turnpike Road to January 9, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for October 13, October 17, and November 7, 2022 (4-0)

Southborough Public Accessibility Committee

The Southborough Public Accessibility Committee approved a budget request for the next fiscal year and identified ADA compliance issues at the Public Safety Building. The committee also expressed concerns regarding accessibility plans for two projects on Turnpike Road.

• Approved 10/31/2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved request for $2,500 budget for 2023 to 2024 (unanimous)

SHOPC / Capital Planning - 21 Highland Street Affordable Housing Subcommittee

The subcommittee discussed property issues and the draft report for 21 Highland Street. Members agreed to investigate historic grants and continue consolidating material for the draft. The only formal action taken was the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Approved November 16, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission issued Negative Determinations of Applicability for work at 125 Parkerville Road and 20 Sears Road. An Order of Conditions was issued for a new home at 8 Brigham Street, and a potential violation at 31 Presidential Drive was cleared.

• Approved minutes from 11/17/2022 as amended (4-0-1)
• Continued hearing for 0 Cordaville Road to January 5, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Issued Negative Determination of Applicability with conditions for 125 Parkerville Road (5-0-0)
• Issued Negative Determination of Applicability with conditions for 20 Sears Road (5-0-0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for 8 Brigham Street (4-0-1)
• Continued hearing for 200 Turnpike Road to January 5, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Cleared potential violation at 31 Presidential Drive

St. Mark’s Street Park Working Group

The St. Mark’s Street Park Working Group voted on several design and infrastructure recommendations to be sent to the Select Board. The group unanimously supported extending the sidewalk to St. Mark's Circle and a plan submitted by Patti Burns-Fiore.

• Recommended extending sidewalk to St. Mark's Circle (7-0-0)
• Recommended plan submitted by Fiore (7-0-0)
• Recommended room for future library expansion (5-1-1)
• Recommended ground lighting (5-2-0)
• Recommended electricity/WiFi (5-2-0)
• Recommended patio (5-1-1)
• Recommended VHB 3 (4-2-1)
• Approved October 27, 2022 minutes (7-0-0)

Master Plan Implementation Committee

The committee approved the September 28, 2022 minutes and discussed the framework for monitoring the 2021 Master Plan. Members agreed to coordinate with Select Board members on overlapping goals and establish a tracker for sponsoring group meetings.

• Approved September 28, 2022 minutes (5-0)

Southborough Cultural Arts Council

The council approved funding for 16 grant applications from a total of $8,513 available for grants. The council also set aside 5% of funds for administrative costs and fees to promote the grants. Jen Hansen was appointed Chair and Catherine Weber was appointed Co-Chair.

• Approved setting aside 5% of funds for administrative costs and fees (Unanimous)
• Approved funding for 16 grant applications, including $1,600 for Southborough Recreation Summer Concert Series and $1,063 for African Folktales (Unanimous)
• Denied funding for 7 grant applications, including Wine Glass Paint Nites and Apple Tree Arts Community Chorus (Unanimous)
• Appointed Jen Hansen as Chair (Unanimous)
• Appointed Catherine Weber as Co-Chair (Unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board appointed Jessica Devine to the School Committee and Abdul Alkhatib as Interim DPW Superintendent. The Board also approved $1.004M in ARPA fund allocations for property tax relief and sidewalk upgrades.

• Appointed Jessica Devine to vacant School Committee seat (9-0-0)
• Approved installation of National Grid/Verizon pole at 9 Clemmons Street (5-0-0)
• Increased Golf Revolving Fund spending limit to $100,000 (5-0-0)
• Shifted $300,000 in ARPA funds to general property tax relief (5-0-0)
• Allocated $704,000 in ARPA funds for sidewalk upgrades (5-0-0)
• Approved revised Police Lieutenant Conditions of Employment Policy and Job Description (5-0-0)
• Authorized contract for Abdul Alkhatib as Interim DPW Superintendent starting Jan 7, 2023 (4-0-0)
• Approved 2023 license renewals and 2022-23 winter parking ban (5-0-0)

Taxation Aid Committee

The committee approved the October 18 minutes and identified local banks and credit unions for grant opportunities. Members decided to apply to three banks in the first quarter of 2023.

• Approved October 18 minutes
• Decided to apply to 3 banks in Q1 2023
• Scheduled next meeting for January 25 at 4 pm

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging approved the minutes from November 4th. Members discussed budget adjustments for outreach hours and salaries, as well as potential spring programming and facility improvements.

• Approved November 4th minutes (unanimous)

St. Mark’s Street Park Working Group

The working group approved the minutes from September 15, 2022, and tabled the minutes from November 12, 2022. Members discussed the preparation of an interim report for the Select Board and the inclusion of cost estimates for different designs.

• Approved September 15, 2022 minutes (5-0-1)
• Tabled November 12, 2022 minutes

Council on Aging

The meeting scheduled for December 1, 2022, was cancelled. No substantive decisions were made.

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee approved six placeholders for the Annual Town Meeting warrant. The committee also authorized a consultant to work up to 20 hours on a public records request project.

• Approved submission of 6 ATM warrant placeholders (5-0)
• Authorized Frederica Gillespie to write a draft warrant if needed (5-0)
• Approved up to 20 hours of work for Frederica Gillespie on a records request special project (5-0)
• Tabled minutes
• Set tentative next meeting date for January 12, 2023

Advisory Committee

The scheduled meeting was cancelled because a quorum was not reached. No substantive decisions were made.

Southborough Stewardship Committee

The provided minutes contain only a list of locations and land types. No official actions, votes, or decisions were recorded.

Board of Assessors

The Board approved the FY24 proposed budget and authorized 10 excise tax abatements. Several personal real estate and chapter land exemptions were approved or denied following an executive session.

• Approved FY24 proposed budget of $259,861 (unanimous)
• Approved 10 2022 excise tax abatements totaling $1,195.91 (unanimous)
• Approved (2) Clause 22 Veterans Exemptions (unanimous)
• Approved (1) Clause 37 A Blind Exemption (unanimous)
• Approved (1) Clause 41C Senior Exemption (unanimous)
• Approved (2) CPA Exemptions (unanimous)
• Denied (1) Clause 22E and (1) Clause 41C Personal Real Estate Exemption applications (unanimous)
• Approved (14) Chapter 61 land applications for FY24 classification (unanimous)

Town Meeting Information

Town Meeting approved the FY23 operating budget of $56,983,269 and adopted a new noise bylaw. Voters also authorized a $950,000 feasibility study for the Neary School and a $2 million water line replacement project. Several articles, including a tree protection bylaw and a recall process for elective officers, were indefinitely postponed.

• Approved FY23 operating budget of $56,983,269
• Adopted new Noise bylaw (voted 89-61)
• Approved $950,000 for Neary School feasibility study
• Approved $2,000,000 for Newton and Main Street water line replacements
• Approved $61,820 for Mooney Tennis Courts rehabilitation
• Established standing Southborough Trails Committee
• Approved $2,514,623 for Water Enterprise Fund FY23
• Indefinitely postponed Tree Protection Bylaw and Recall of Elective Officers

Community Preservation Committee

The committee re-appointed its leadership and approved meeting minutes from September and October. Members reviewed the FY24 estimated budget and discussed pending project applications and the 2023 ATM Warrant timeline.

• Re-appointed Andrew Mills as Chair (5-1 abstention)
• Re-appointed Benjamin Smith as Vice Chair (5-1 abstention)
• Approved September 21, 2022 meeting minutes (5-1 abstention)
• Approved October 20, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Tabled Project Close Out Form to next meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the MBTA Communities Action Plan and the FY24 draft budget. It also granted a permit extension for Ruby Estates and approved specific waivers for a storage facility project at 250 Turnpike Road.

• Approved MBTA Communities Action Plan (5-0)
• Approved FY24 draft budget including $40,360 increase over FY23 (5-0)
• Approved LID permit extension for 96 Mt. Vickery Road (Ruby Estates) to June 11, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved waivers for 250 Turnpike Road Major Site Plan (5-0)
• Continued 250 Turnpike Road public hearing to December 12, 2022 (5-0)
• Extended time to act for 200 Turnpike Road to January 13, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued 200 Turnpike Road public hearing to December 12, 2022 (5-0)

Select Board

The Board approved a $110,000 contract for tree services and appointed several members to town committees. Members established preliminary negotiation terms for a proposed water connection request from Hopkinton. A proposed letter to PWPB Chair Bill Boland was tabled.

• Approved $110,000 contract for removal of approximately 100 trees (5-0-0)
• Appointed Nicki Mauro to the Community Center Exploratory Committee (5-0-0)
• Appointed Ryan Donovan, Tim Davis, and Pam LeFrancois as ex-officio members to the Community Center Exploratory Committee (5-0-0)
• Appointed Marguerite Landry to the Southborough Public Accessibility Committee (5-0-0)
• Appointed Susan Heilman to the Community Center Exploratory Committee (5-0-0)
• Tabled proposed letter to PWPB Chair Bill Boland
• Agreed Hopkinton should pay 100% of Southborough's costs for the water connection project
• Agreed to request Hopkinton reimburse the Town for an independent engineering review

Registrar of Voters

The Board of Registrars reviewed and voted on three Specially Qualified and three UOCAVA ballots received by email. These decisions were recorded for the official State Election count. The board also approved the minutes from the 11/18/22 meeting.

• Approved six Specially Qualified and UOCAVA ballots for the official count
• Approved minutes from the 11/18/22 meeting

Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees approved a new fine-free policy for most items and adopted a Wireless Hotspot Policy. The board also approved the amended minutes from the October 14th meeting.

• Approved amended October 14th meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Wireless Hotspot Policy as amended (5-0)
• Approved fine-free policy effective November 21st, excluding hotspots, museum passes, and telescopes (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission approved several Orders of Conditions and a Certificate of Compliance for residential and commercial sites. It also approved the Annual Report and continued hearings for multiple ongoing project applications.

• Approved Order of Conditions for 1 Witherbee Lane (4-0-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 353-355 Turnpike Road (4-0-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 10 Metcalf Lane (4-0-0)
• Issued Order of Resource Area Delineation for 65C School Street (4-0-0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 15 Woodland Road (4-0-0)
• Approved Annual Report (4-0-0)
• Approved 10/27/2022 meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Continued hearings for 8 Brigham Street, 200 Turnpike Road, and 10 Metcalf Lane

Historical Commission

The Commission designated 5 Cordaville Road as historically and architecturally significant following a demolition application. The board also supported a $1,000 budget request for FY24 for outreach and education. Minutes from the October 25, 2022 meeting were approved.

• Designated 5 Cordaville Road as historically and/or architecturally significant (5-0)
• Supported proposed FY24 budget of $1K for outreach and education (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from October 25, 2022 (5-0)

Economic Development Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the October 14, 2022 meeting. Members discussed a state RFP for courthouse lease space and the status of 2 East Main St. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved October 14, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Postponed approval of October 26, 2022 minutes
• Postponed contract for interim contract employee

Community Preservation Committee

The meeting scheduled for November 16, 2022, was cancelled. No actions were taken and no decisions were made.

Southborough Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board approved the meeting minutes from September 14 and September 21, 2022. The Board decided to cancel the December 21, 2022 meeting because there were no applications before the Board.

• Approved September 14, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved September 21, 2022 meeting minutes as amended (5-0-0)
• Cancelled December 21, 2022 meeting

Select Board

The Select Board held an information session and public comment period regarding the potential regionalization of emergency dispatch. No decision was made on whether to pursue an Inter-Municipal Agreement (IMA) for a regional center. The Board requested further research into the positions of Hopkinton, Westborough, and Grafton.

• Tabled decision on regional dispatch to early December
• Requested Town Administrator Purple and Chief Achilles to determine the positions of Hopkinton, Westborough, and Grafton on regionalization
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0-0)

SHOPC / Capital Planning - 21 Highland Street Affordable Housing Subcommittee

The provided text is a notice from the Town Clerk stating that minutes and documents for the November 16, 2022, meeting have not been received. No substantive decisions or actions are recorded.

Advisory Committee

The Advisory Committee and Select Board established the timeline and guidelines for the FY24 budget process. They agreed to limit initial department budgets to a 3% increase with no new staff hours unless a compelling case is made. The group also set a preliminary schedule for budget presentations in December and January.

• Agreed to limit initial budgets to a 3% increase with no new staff hours
• Agreed that departments may submit a second budget for additional hours if a compelling case is made
• Agreed to conduct the January 28, 2023 budget review via Zoom in the event of inclement weather
• Adjourned meeting at 9:01PM (5-0-0)

Health Department

The Board of Health approved a $264,407 budget for FY24 and shifted tobacco permit renewals to an annual cycle. The board also granted a septic setback variance for 5 Atwood Street and updated tobacco regulations effective January 1, 2023.

• Approved FY24 Board of Health budget of $264,407 (2-0)
• Changed tobacco permit renewals from biannual to annual at $200 (2-0)
• Approved changes to tobacco regulations 8-23, 9-13, 9-19, 9-27, and 11-1 (2-0)
• Set effective date for updated tobacco regulations as January 1, 2023 (2-0)
• Granted septic setback variance for 5 Atwood Street to 5 feet with required impervious barrier (2-0)
• Approved returning surplus Public Health Director funds to ARPA (2-0)
• Approved support for Ms. West in the Emergency Preparedness department (2-0)
• Maintained Elect Board of Health funding at $450 for FY24 (2-0)

Southborough Youth Commission

The Southborough Youth Commission unanimously accepted the FY24 draft budget for submission to the Town Finance Committee. The commission also approved a six-month pilot program to allow open attendance at workshops to increase community engagement.

• Approved October 11, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Accepted FY24 draft budget as written (Unanimous)
• Approved six-month pilot of Open Attendance at workshops (Unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board voted against a proposal to use ARPA funds for hazard pay for certain town employees. The Board also accepted a drainage easement for 16 Meadow Lane and established a preliminary framework for the FY24 budget process.

• Denied ARPA Committee recommendation of $300,000 for hazard/premium pay (4-0-0)
• Accepted drainage easement for Lot 2B, 16 Meadow Lane (5-0-0)
• Approved $100 donation to Fire Ambulance Fund (5-0-0)
• Accepted $25,587 payment in lieu of taxes from Harvard Medical School (5-0-0)
• Accepted resignation of Chris Robbins from EDC (5-0-0)
• Accepted donation of tools for Southborough Trails Committee (5-0-0)
• Approved Open Session minutes for Oct 26 and Nov 7, 2022 (5-0-0)
• Tabled revisions to Police Lieutenant job description

St. Mark’s Street Park Working Group

The St. Mark’s Street Park Working Group held a public forum to gather resident feedback on park design and themes. Participants provided written comments on desired features, including native plantings, historical markers, and gathering spaces. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.

• Collected public design feedback via small group discussions

Community Preservation Committee

The meeting scheduled for November 10, 2022, was cancelled. No actions were taken.

Housing Authority

The Board unanimously approved the 400-1 and 689-1 budgets for 2023 for submission to the DHCD. They also approved accounts payable and a small project requisition. The Director reported the start of a heat pump project at 103 Framingham Road.

• Approved 400-1 budget for 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved 689-1 budget for 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved accounts payable of $26,163.00 (Unanimous)
• Approved Small Project Requisition Form of $2,650.00 (Unanimous)
• Accepted October 19, 2022 minutes (Unanimous)
• Accepted Director's report (Unanimous)

Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds will vote to enter executive session to discuss the reputation, character, or health of an individual (applicant review #58) and will not reconvene in open session. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and setting the next meeting date.

• Vote to enter executive session for applicant review #58
• Approve minutes from October 5 and October 20, 2022

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds approved a request for home health care assistance for a resident. The board upheld a previously approved amount of $4,000 to be paid from the Waldo Fay Fund.

• Approved October 5th minutes (2-0)
• Approved October 20th minutes (2-0)
• Approved $4,000 from Waldo Fay Fund for home health aid at $20/hour, retroactive to 10/11/22 (3-0)

Municipal Technology Committee

The Municipal Technology Committee approved the use of myseniorcenter.com for Youth and Family Services to manage client information and registration. The committee also designated point persons for network architecture and security posture assessments.

• Approved minutes of Oct 11 meeting as amended (5-0)
• Supported Youth and Family Services choice of myseniorcenter for program engagement, registration, and client information storage (5-0)
• Designated Joe as point person for Network Architecture issues
• Designated Matt as point person for Security Posture Assessment
• Approved adjournment (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board accepted a performance bond to allow temporary occupancy of the St. Mark’s dormitory. The board also adopted new rules for outdoor illumination and updated the Downtown District Design Guidelines. Several site plan reviews for Turnpike Road properties were continued to future dates.

• Approved $432,154.90 performance bond for St. Mark’s Dormitory temporary occupancy (5-0)
• Accepted amended Outdoor Illumination rules and regulations (4-0)
• Accepted revised Southborough Downtown District Design Guidelines (4-0)
• Extended approval period for 250 Turnpike Road storage facility to Dec 16, 2022 (5-0)
• Continued 250 Turnpike Road public hearing to Nov 21, 2022 (5-0)
• Continued 200 Turnpike Road public hearings to Nov 21, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved limited building expansion work for 325 Turnpike Road (Ken’s Foods)
• Approved meeting minutes from Sept 12, Sept 26, and Oct 3, 2022 (4-0)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging approved adding eight hours to the Outreach position for the 2023 fiscal year and for the period of January 1 to June 30, 2023, using Formula Grant funds. The board also approved the minutes from the October 14, 2022 meeting.

• Approved minutes of October 14, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved adding eight hours for the Outreach position into the fiscal year 2023 budget under the Formula Grant (unanimous)
• Approved adding eight hours for the Outreach position into the budget from January 1 to June 30, 2023 under the Formula Grant (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board approved the transfer of overlay reserve funds to surplus and authorized 18 excise tax abatements. The Board also approved several personal real estate exemptions and signed a contract for the Principal Assessor.

• Approved transfer of $259,000 (FY21) and $16,000 (FY22) overlay reserve to overlay surplus (Unanimous)
• Approved (18) 2022 excise tax abatements totaling $1,797.12 (Unanimous)
• Approved (12) Clause 22 Veterans Exemptions (Unanimous)
• Approved (3) Clause 22D Veterans Exemptions (Unanimous)
• Approved (5) Clause 22E Veterans Exemptions (Unanimous)
• Approved (1) Clause 22P Veterans Exemption (Unanimous)
• Approved (6) Clause 37 A Blind Exemption (Unanimous)
• Approved Principal Assessor's contract for July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2026 (Unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The scheduled meeting for November 1, 2022, was cancelled because a quorum was not reached. No decisions were made.

Health Department

The Board of Health voted to apply for the Community Compact Best Practice Grant to explore regionalization and expand public health services. The town would lead the application, with Northborough expressing willingness to participate.

• Approved motion to apply for the Community Compact Best Practice Grant (3-0)

Select Board

The Select Board approved restoring full ARPA funding for the Senior Center and allocated funds for town Wi-Fi surveys. The Board also granted a water bill appeal for a resident and opened the warrant for the March 2023 Annual Town Meeting.

• Restored ARPA funding for Senior Center construction to $400,000 (5-0-0)
• Allocated $10,000 of ARPA funds for Town Wi-Fi survey and design services (5-0-0)
• Approved water bill appeal for 6 Watkins Lane via 'Option 3' and meter replacement (5-0-0)
• Opened the Warrant for Annual Town Meeting scheduled for March 25, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Appointed four members to the Community Center Exploratory Committee (4-0-1)
• Approved Open Session Meeting Minutes for Oct 3, 13, and 18 (various votes)
• Approved fuel oil contract award and Executive Session Minutes from Sept 30 (5-0-0)
• Tabled ARPA hazard pay for Police and Fire until November 15th meeting

Southborough Public Accessibility Committee

The committee approved the September 12, 2022, meeting minutes. No other formal motions were approved, though members assigned tasks regarding parking bylaw drafts and accessibility reviews.

• Approved minutes of 9/12/2022 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Commission approved the FY24 budget, which includes a 6.9% overall increase. A Certificate of Compliance was issued for 16-18 Middle Road. Several public hearings for property projects were continued to future dates.

• Approved FY24 budget with 6.9% increase (4-0-0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 16-18 Middle Road (3-0-1)
• Approved 10/06/2022 meeting minutes (3-0-1)
• Continued hearing for 353-355 Turnpike Road to 11/17/2022 (3-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 8 Brigham Street to 11/17/2022 (4-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 10 Metcalf Lane (4-0-0)
• Continued hearing for 200 Turnpike Road (4-0-0)

St. Mark’s Street Park Working Group

The working group received an update that the Select Board voted to halt work on the park until after the 2023 Town Meeting. The group also noted that an archaeological survey found foundations and debris potentially linked to the home of William Washington.

• Approved July 28, 2022 minutes (6-0-0)
• Approved August 4, 2022 minutes (6-0-0)
• Approved August 25, 2022 minutes (6-0-0)
• Approved September 22, 2022 minutes (6-0-0)
• Select Board voted to stop park work until after 2023 Town Meeting

SHOPC / Capital Planning - 21 Highland Street Affordable Housing Subcommittee

The subcommittee discussed content and sections for a preliminary draft report, including zoning, adaptive reuse, and 40B. Members agreed to continue researching and defining content for these sections. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved motion to adjourn (4-0)
• Rescheduled approval of September 8, 2022 minutes to the next meeting

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee approved a budget for a full-time coordinator role to be submitted to the Town. The committee also established terms for a temporary contractor role to bridge the gap until a permanent decision is made.

• Approved budget for a full-time coordinator position for submission to the Town (7-0-0)
• Approved list of responsibilities for a contractor role to be shared with the Town Administrator’s Office (7-0-0)
• Set contractor pay rate at $50/hour (7-0-0)
• Limited contractor role to 60 hours per month (7-0-0)
• Approved minutes from August 19, 2022 (7-0-0)

Southborough Trails Committee

The committee approved the September 27, 2022, meeting minutes. Members discussed the allocation of MassTrails grant funds for trail work and the use of ARPA funding for tool purchases. Plans were discussed for a guided hike series to begin in spring 2023.

• Approved minutes from 09/27/2022 (4-0)
• Determined tools will be purchased using ARPA funding

Select Board

The Select Board approved a recruitment process and job description to replace the resigning DPW Superintendent. The Board also agreed to create a website page to publicize documents regarding a Hopkinton proposal for an indirect connection to MWRA water.

• Approved DPW Superintendent recruitment process outlined by Ms. Hale (4-0-1)
• Approved amended DPW job description and job posting (4-0-1)
• Agreed to create a website page for Hopkinton MWRA water connection documents
• Agreed to keep draft terms provided by John Butler private

Historical Commission

The Commission approved the final sign template for the Southborough Center Historic District, with installation expected in Spring 2023. Members also discussed potential memorials for unmarked veterans' graves and provided updates on several local preservation projects.

• Approved final sign template for Southborough Center Historic District (5-0)
• Approved September 20, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Southborough Stewardship Committee

The committee voted 5-0 to spend up to $18,000 on a shed for storage, with a 10'x10' portion for the Stewardship and an 8'x10' portion for the Community Garden. They also discussed abutter encroachment, a farm dump cleanup, and plans for a picnic table, bat boxes, and blueberry bushes. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were updates or discussions.

• Approved up to $18,000 for shed from Eastern Sheds (5-0)
• Approved minutes from August 23, 2023 (4-0)
• Agreed to install rope or chain to mark boundary for abutter encroachment
• Decided to hold off on beecology fencing for now
• Unanimously agreed to purchase and install a picnic table
• Committed to planting blueberry bushes in spring

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission voted unanimously to support the purchase of a 15-passenger van for up to $50,000. They also discussed the Lundblad project, agreeing to delay full funding by a year while applying for grants, and reviewed options for converting Choate fields to turf, noting health and fundraising considerations.

• Approved purchase of 15-passenger van up to $50K (unanimous)
• Agreed to push full Lundblad project funding to next fiscal year
• Discussed but did not vote on Choate turf conversion options

Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds approved $4,000 for an Alzheimer's patient's home health care and legal expenses, and also approved $3,000 in holiday gifts and a $5,000 community fund transfer. All votes were 2-0. The board discussed but took no action on increasing visibility or leveraging the community fund.

• Approved $4,000 for Alzheimer's resident home health care and legal expenses (2-0)
• Approved $1,000 for Youth/Family and $2,000 for COA holiday gifts (2-0)
• Approved $5,000 bi-annual Community Fund transfer to Friends of Youth (2-0)
• Postponed acceptance of last meeting minutes due to absent members
• Agreed to schedule next meeting for November 9, 2022 at 8AM

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee heard a presentation on the Algonquin Regional High School athletic complex project, which seeks $1,980,009.12 in CPC funds for track, lighting, walkways, tennis courts, and an amphitheater. No vote was taken; the committee will continue review after receiving guidance from the Community Preservation Coalition on eligible costs. The committee also received updates on the St. Mark's Bell Tower and Southborough Town House projects, and discussed CPA fund investment losses.

• No vote taken on Algonquin athletic complex funding request; review ongoing
• Received update on St. Mark's Bell Tower project; work to continue next spring
• Discussed Southborough Town House pre-bid update; project paused due to economy
• Noted CPA fund investment losses of ~$500,000 in FY22 and ~$100,000 in FY23 so far
• Tabled minutes approval to next meeting

Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds will meet to review fund performance from the prior year. The board may also vote on holiday gift giving.

• Review of prior year fund performance
• Potential vote on holiday gift giving

Municipal Technology Committee

The committee is meeting to review documents related to a vendor, including a resume for Wanbing Zhang and a list of vendor questions for town departments.

• Review of Wanbing Zhang UX Research resume
• Review of vendor questions for town departments

Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds will meet to review fund performance from the prior year. The board may also vote on holiday gift giving and decide on their inclusion in the annual report.

• Review of prior year fund performance
• Vote on holiday gift giving
• Decision on inclusion in the annual report

Registrar of Voters

The Board of Registrars is coordinating logistics for the September 6 State Primary and the November 8 State Election. The body is deciding on early voting dates and the delegation of administrative authority to the Town Clerk.

• Annual vote to delegate authority to Town Clerk for nomination papers, voter registration, and signature stamps
• Authorization of Advance Opening and Early Deposit for the State Primary from 8/28 to 9/2
• Authorization of Advance Opening and Early Deposit for the State Election from 10/24 to 11/4
• Tentative early voting dates at Town House: 8/27–9/2 for the primary and 10/22–11/4 for the general election
• Discussion of potential audit requirements for 3% of Massachusetts precincts

Municipal Technology Committee

The committee is reviewing next steps for technology-related American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) projects. Discussions include the town website upgrade, digital accessibility, and technical configurations for new servers.

• Town website upgrade proposal (civic plus upgrade)
• User Experience Research (UXR)
• Digital access control options for transfer station
• Mobile network coverage assessment
• IT/tech budget usage and staffing updates

Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss the needs of Applicant #57. The Board may vote on the application during the meeting.

• Approval of May 17, 2022 minutes
• Discussion and potential vote regarding Applicant #57

Southborough Scholarship Advisory Committee

The committee will review all received scholarship applications and discuss available award amounts. Members will also review evaluation criteria and agree on which scholarships to award.

• Review of 2022 scholarship applications
• Discussion of scholarship award amounts
• Agreement on scholarship recipients
• Discussion of scholarship announcement process

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad-Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting to attend the Annual Town Meeting. The committee will sponsor Article 26 and deliberate on related articles and amendments.

• Sponsorship of Article 26

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The committee will attend the Annual Town Meeting to sponsor Article 26. Members will also deliberate on various articles and amendments as required.

• Sponsor Article 26
• Deliberate on articles and amendments

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting to review the current status of the town's noise bylaw. The agenda includes updates on presentations, programming, and public outreach efforts.

• Update on bylaw status
• Status update on presentation and associated activity
• Status on programming, Q&A, and public outreach

Southborough Scholarship Advisory Committee

The committee is reviewing the 2022 scholarship application process and timelines. Members are also assessing current fund availability for Town, Carol Harris Memorial, and Linda Hubley Memorial scholarships.

• Review of April 7, 2022 minutes
• Update on 2022 scholarship dates and application process
• Status update on Town and Linda Hubley Memorial scholarships
• Review of available funds for Town, Carol Harris Memorial, and Linda Hubley Memorial scholarships
• Progress update on public awareness and marketing initiatives

Southborough School Committee

The Southborough School Committee will review updates on COVID-19, the town-wide ADA report, and the Recreation Department. The body will also discuss school choice and the Before- and After-School Care Program. Members are scheduled to vote on meeting minutes and approve bills and payrolls.

• Social-Emotional Learning Presentation
• Town-wide ADA Report
• Southborough Recreation Department request for support
• School Choice discussion
• FY’22 Monthly General Fund Expenditure Report

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The committee will conduct a remote meeting including a joint session with the Selectboard. The agenda includes a review of that joint meeting and scheduling for future meetings.

• Joint meeting with Selectboard at 6:30pm
• Review of joint meeting
• Open public comment

Southborough Scholarship Advisory Committee

The committee is reviewing the current availability of Town, Carol Harris Memorial, and Linda Hubley Memorial funds. Members are also discussing the 2022 scholarship application process, marketing strategies, and fundraising ideas.

• Review of March 1, 2022 minutes
• Status update on Town, Carol Harris Memorial, and Linda Hubley Memorial funds
• Discussion of 2022 scholarship application dates and processes
• Public awareness and marketing planning

Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds

The Board will review the minutes from the March 30, 2022 meeting. The agenda includes a continued discussion regarding Applicant #56.

• Approval of March 30, 2022 minutes
• Continued discussion of need for Applicant #56

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad-Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting to provide a status update on a draft bylaw. The committee will also work on programming and public outreach efforts.

• Status update on Noise Bylaw draft
• Planning for public outreach and programming

Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds

The Board will review the minutes from the November 9, 2021 meeting. The agenda includes a discussion regarding Applicant #56, which may result in a vote.

• Approval of November 9, 2021 minutes
• Discussion and possible vote on Applicant #56

Southborough School Committee

The Southborough School Committee will participate in the Town of Southborough’s Advisory Committee virtual meeting via Zoom. This is a special open meeting conducted remotely pursuant to Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2022.

• Participation in the Town of Southborough’s Advisory Committee virtual meeting

Southborough School Committee

The School Committee is conducting a public hearing regarding the FY’23 budget. The body will also discuss school choice, COVID-19 updates, and the MSBA Accelerated Repair Program.

• Public hearing for FY’23 budget
• Vote on Woodward Core SOI for MSBA Accelerated Repair Program
• Neary School Building Committee appointment
• Discussion on School Choice
• Action on minutes from January 20 and February 9, 2022

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad-Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting to work on a draft document. The session includes time for public comment and scheduling future meetings.

• Work on draft noise bylaw

Southborough School Committee

The Southborough School Committee will meet virtually to discuss masking protocols. The discussion includes guidance from the CDC and the Medical Advisory Team (MAT).

• Discussion and vote on masking based on CDC guidance
• Discussion and vote on masking based on Medical Advisory Team (MAT) input

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad-Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting with the Selectboard to present the current status of their work and a draft bylaw. The committee will request feedback and a timeline for the process.

• Presentation of Noise Bylaw draft to the Selectboard
• Discussion of project timeline and feedback

Southborough School Committee

The Southborough School Committee is holding a special open meeting to participate in a virtual Zoom meeting of the Town of Southborough’s Select Board.

• Participation in Town of Southborough Select Board meeting

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting to continue work on a draft document. The committee will also discuss scheduling a public forum and its promotion.

• Election of Vice Chairman
• Work on Draft
• Schedule Public forum and promotion

Southborough School Committee

The Margaret A. Neary School Council will meet to provide school updates and review Goals 1 and 2 of the 2021-2024 School Improvement Plan. The session includes a review of action steps and progress regarding these goals.

• Review of 2021-2024 School Improvement Plan Goals 1 and 2

Southborough School Committee

The Southborough School Committee will meet to vote on the FY23 recommended budget and budget priorities. The committee will also consider authorizing the Superintendent to submit statements of interest for roof repairs at Trottier Middle School and Finn School.

• Vote to authorize Superintendent to submit MSBA Accelerated Repair Program statements of interest for Trottier Middle School and Finn School roofs
• Vote on FY23 Recommended Budget
• Vote to expend revolving funds for Finn/Trottier capital expenditures
• Vote to remove Gary Hreschuk from the Southborough Student Activity Bank Account
• Discussion on establishing a School Building Committee

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad-Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting to develop a bylaw outline. The committee will also prepare for a public forum and its promotion.

• Work on bylaw outline
• Preparation for Public Forum and promotion

Southborough School Committee

The Southborough School Committee is holding a special open meeting to participate in a virtual meeting of the Town of Southborough’s Capital Planning Subcommittee.

• Participation in the Town of Southborough’s Capital Planning Subcommittee Meeting

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad-Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting to review a bylaw outline. The session is being conducted virtually via Zoom.

• Review of Bylaw outline

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad-Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting to report its status to the Select Board and review survey results. The committee will also discuss a request for a charter alteration to remove a forum requirement and inquire about the Town Meeting.

• Review of survey results
• Request for charter alteration to remove one forum requirement
• Status report to the Select Board

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Noise Bylaw Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to review draft bylaws and template outlines. The agenda lists several documents for review, including a draft from March 6, 2017.

• Review of Noise Bylaw Draft 3-6-17
• Review of MAHB Noise Template
• Review of Template Outline Revision 1-12-2022

Southborough School Committee

The Southborough School Committee will discuss the FY23 recommended budget, budget priorities, and the FY23-FY29 Capital Plan. The meeting includes updates on COVID-19 vaccination rates and a presentation on English Learners.

• FY23 Recommended Budget Presentation
• FY23-FY29 Capital Plan
• Recommendation for Before- and After-School Care Program
• Distribution of policies on Public Comment (B-330), Hiring (G-110), Overtime (G-150), Staff Use (G-160), Social Media (G-170), and Jury Duty (G-190)
• FY22 Monthly General Fund Expenditure Report

Southborough Scholarship Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to review available funds and follow up on previous action items. Members will discuss new honorary and corporate scholarship opportunities and brainstorm fundraising and marketing ideas.

• Review of funds available as of January 2022
• Discussion of honorary scholarship for Hubley
• Discussion of corporate scholarship opportunities
• Fundraising ideas involving restaurants
• Marketing ideas via My Southborough

Noise Bylaw Committee - Ad Hoc

The Ad-Hoc Noise Bylaw Committee is meeting to review the results of a survey. The committee will also outline a draft of a noise bylaw.

• Discussion of survey results
• Outlining a draft of a noise bylaw

Southborough School Committee

The Southborough School Committee Operational Budget Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the recommended budget for fiscal year 2023. The committee will also act on the minutes from the November 16, 2021 meeting.

• FY’23 Recommended Budget discussion
• Action on November 16, 2021 minutes