Spencer public meetings in 2025

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen approved a contract with M.L. Partlow and Son Paving to perform Phase II paving on Mill and Valley Streets for $960,171.34. It also approved the change of manager at Spencer Country Inn, declared Fire Engine 4 surplus and authorized its sale, and ratified numerous license renewals and other contracts. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Mill & Valley Street paving Phase II contract $960,171.34 (5-0)
• Approved change of manager for Spencer Country Inn at 500 Main Street (5-0)
• Approved declaration of Spencer Fire Department Engine 4 as surplus and authorized sale (5-0)
• Approved Class II licenses list (5-0)
• Approved Class I licenses list (5-0)
• Approved alcohol licenses list (5-0)
• Approved contract with Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Committee for Conservation Agent (5-0)
• Approved contract with PARE Engineering for assessment of town-owned dams (5-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is reviewing annual license renewals for 2026. This includes a wide range of local business permits for auto sales, alcohol, food service, and lodging.

• Class I and II auto dealer licenses, including Small Car Clinic (100 cars) and Dennis' Auto Sales (70 cars)
• All Alcoholic licenses for package stores, pouring establishments, and clubs
• Beer & Wine package and pouring licenses
• Common Victualler licenses for various restaurants and food vendors
• Lodging House license for South Middlesex Non-Profit Housing Corporation at 204 Main Street

Sewer Department

The Spencer Sewer Commissioners will open the meeting and call it to order. Commissioners will review and approve the previous meeting's minutes. They will examine the monthly operations report, discuss budget and capital items, consider sewer system upgrades, and hear resident concerns.

• Call meeting to order
• Review and approve previous minutes
• Review monthly operations reports
• Discuss budget and capital items
• Discuss sewer system upgrades and resident concerns

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Spencer Board of Sewer Commissioners will review and approve the previous meeting minutes. They will examine monthly operations reports and discuss budget and capital items for the sewer system. The agenda includes discussion of sewer system upgrades and resident concerns.

• Review & approve previous meeting minutes
• Review monthly operations reports
• Discuss budget and capital items for the sewer system
• Discuss sewer system upgrades
• Address resident concerns

The board approved the minutes from the November 19 and December 4 meetings. It voted to increase the Drain Layer License Application fee from $25 to $100 beginning in 2026. The board also approved I&I fees for bedroom additions at 7 Lincoln St ($3,520) and 26.5 Cherry St ($1,760). Several items, including the design‑bond review and a reimbursement inquiry, were tabled for future discussion.

• Approved minutes of Nov 19 & Dec 4, 2025 (3‑0)
• Approved increase of Drain Layer License fee to $100 for 2026 (3‑0)
• Approved I&I fee $3,520 for two‑bedroom addition at 7 Lincoln St (3‑0)
• Approved I&I fee $1,760 for one‑bedroom addition at 26.5 Cherry St (3‑0)
• Tabled design bond debt consolidation discussion (no vote)
• Tabled Tighe & Bond amendment reimbursement inquiry (no vote)
• Rescheduled review of Tighe & Bond warranties to Dec 23, 2026 (no vote)
• Noted request for additional $200,000 storage building (no decision)

Conservation Commission

The Spencer Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on notices of intent and stormwater permits for several properties, including 25 Marble Road and 130 Paxton Road. It will also consider requests for Certificates of Compliance for New England Power transmission lines and the Spencer Wastewater Treatment Plant. Additional agenda items address reported violations, a right‑of‑first‑refusal issue, and upcoming applications.

• Public Hearing – Notice of Intent and Stormwater Permit for George Lussier, 25 Marble Road (DEP#293-1102)
• Public Hearing – Notice of Intent for Gerson Henrique, 130 Paxton Road (DEP#293-1104)
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – New England Power (NEP) E5/F6 Transmission Lines (DEP#293-1071)
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – Spencer Wastewater Treatment Plant (DEP#293-1022)
• Violation report – Mill Street work in RFA without a permit

The Conservation Commission approved a Certificate of Completion for New England Power’s E5/F6 transmission line. It also approved Notices of Intent with conditions for the Gerson Henrique and Jay Gallant projects and gave positive determinations for the Wood and Gaffney shoreline wall requests. Additional actions included a continuance of the George Lussier hearing, a letter confirming substantial completion of the Spencer Wastewater Treatment Plant, and adoption of the November 12 minutes.

• Issued Certificate of Completion for NEP E5/F6 transmission line (6-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent with conditions for Gerson Henrique (6-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent with conditions for Jay Gallant (7-0)
• Positive determination for Cheryl & Sean Wood shoreline wall request (7-0)
• Positive determination for Richard Gaffney shoreline wall replacement (7-0)
• Continuance of George Lussier hearing to 1/14/26
• Issued letter stating Spencer Wastewater Treatment Plant in substantial completion (7-0)
• Approved the November 12, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider two applications to create new lots on LeClaire Lane & Ash Street and on 40 Brooks Pond Road. It will hold a public hearing on a stormwater permit amendment for 4 & 6 Eagleton Street in the Suburban Residential district. The board will also discuss minor changes to the E. Main Street Self Storage facility and approve a Stonebridge Press invoice for the revolving account.

• Create new lots – LeClaire Lane & Ash Street (applicant Donald LeCaire)
• Create new lots – 40 Brooks Pond Road (applicant FWP Realty)
• Public hearing – stormwater permit amendment for 4 & 6 Eagleton St (applicant Graziele De Souza / JR Siding, Inc)
• Discussion – E. Main Street Self Storage minor changes
• Approval – Planning Board Revolving Account – Stonebridge Press invoice

The Planning Board endorsed the Lecaire Lane & Ash Street ANR plan with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. It also approved a continuance of the 40 Brooks Pond Road ANR, requiring a written continuance by 12/22/2025 or the plan will be denied, again by a 5‑0 vote. A third unanimous 5‑0 vote continued the stormwater permit amendment discussion until 1/20/2026.

• Endorsed Lecaire Lane & Ash Street ANR plan (5-0)
• Approved continuance of 40 Brooks Pond Road ANR, subject to written continuance by 12/22/2025 (5-0)
• Continued stormwater amendment review until 1/20/2026 (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will vote on several tax commitments and warrants, including real estate and personal property billing. The board will also review FY26 budget requests for FY27 and vote on the Town’s Annual Report for FY26.

• Commitment and warrant for FY26 actual real estate: $10,223,638.87
• Commitment and warrant for FY26 actual personal property: $384,197.11
• Approval of 21+ motor vehicle abatement applications
• Request for Principal Assessor to sign lien for R43/13 Cooney Fields (16.3 acres changing from 61A to 61B)
• Tax rates approved at $10.98 per thousand and Stiles tax rate at $3.10 per thousand

The Board approved the town’s tax rate of $10.98 per thousand and adopted FY26 budget commitments for real estate, personal property, water and sewer liens. It also authorized the principal assessor to sign liens for specific parcels and granted several exemption applications, including a $500 blind exemption. The vote on the FY26 PILOT payment for MPHI/Mainstay was delayed. The meeting adjourned after an executive‑session discussion.

• Approved town tax rate of $10.98 per $1,000 (no vote recorded)
• Approved FY26 real estate commitment and warrant of $10,223,638.87 (3-0)
• Approved FY26 personal property commitment and warrant of $384,197.11 (3-0)
• Approved FY26 water lien commitment of $3,127.66 (3-0)
• Approved FY26 sewer lien commitment of $6,218.18 (3-0)
• Delayed vote on FY26 PILOT payment for MPHI/Mainstay (decision postponed)
• Approved principal assessor to sign lien for parcel R43/13 Cooney Fields (61A to 61B) (no vote recorded)
• Approved 37A Blind exemption for Kevin Chalifoux ($500) (no vote recorded)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Spencer Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a Special Permit application to convert a single‑family dwelling with a dentist office at 48 Pleasant Street into a two‑family residence. The board will also approve the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting, receive a town planner report and hear any new business, and allow citizen input before adjourning.

• Special Permit Finding – conversion of 48 Pleasant Street to a two‑family dwelling (section 4.3.3)
• Approval of minutes from 10/14/2025 meeting
• Town Planner Report / New Business
• Citizens Input

The Board voted 3-0 to approve a special permit for 48 Pleasant Street to convert the existing single‑family dwelling with a dentist office into a two‑family residence under Section 4.3.3 of the zoning bylaw. The Board also unanimously approved the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 pm after a unanimous vote.

• Approved Special Permit for 48 Pleasant Street (3-0)
• Closed public hearing (3-0)
• Approved minutes from 10/14/2025 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:20 pm (3-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss requests for proposals for ambulance services and review contracts for paving, dam assessments, and conservation services. The board is also scheduled to address an Open Meeting Law complaint and ratify 2026 annual business license renewals.

• Contract with M.L. Partlow and Son Paving for Mill and Valley Street Paving Phase II Project
• Contract with PARE Engineering for assessment of Town owned Dams
• Ratification of 2026 Annual License Renewals for liquor, common victualer, and auto dealers
• Authorization to sell Spencer Fire Department Engine 4 as surplus
• Review of Open Meeting Law complaint filed by Patrick Higgins

The Board approved the November 10 minutes, adopted the Street Sign Policy, and authorized a MassDOT review of the Wilson & Hastings Road all‑way stop sign and a blind‑driveway sign. It accepted the proposal to reuse the Cherry Street Fire Station and authorized the Town Administrator to negotiate a purchase and development agreement. The Board also approved an employment contract for the building inspector, an intermunicipal stormwater agreement, and a letter of support for state aid.

• Approved November 10 minutes (4-0-1)
• Approved Street Sign Policy (5-0)
• Approved MassDOT review of Wilson & Hastings Road stop sign (4-0-1)
• Approved blind driveway sign evaluation (5-0)
• Accepted Cherry Street Fire Station reuse proposal (5-0)
• Approved employment agreement with Duane Amos (5-0)
• Approved intermunicipal agreement with Central Massachusetts Stormwater Coalition (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for rainy‑day fund (5-0)

Sewer Department

The Spencer Board of Sewer Commissioners will meet on December 4, 2025 at 2:00 pm at 3 Old Meadow Rd. The agenda lists a discussion of budget and capital items, specifically sewer systems upgrades. The chair may introduce additional items, and not all listed items are guaranteed to be discussed.

• Sewer systems upgrades (budget and capital discussion)

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will meet to discuss budget and capital items. The agenda includes a discussion on sewer systems upgrades.

• Sewer systems upgrades
• Budget and capital items

The Sewer Commissioners accepted the bid from Brenntag Northeast LLC for high‑density soda ash at $550 per dry ton with a minimum 25‑ton purchase. They also accepted Insituform’s bid to rehabilitate Clark Street Phase II for $61,004. Both motions passed unanimously (Larry and Frank voted yes). The board then moved to adjourn the meeting, which was approved.

• Approved soda ash chemical bid from Brenntag Northeast LLC ($550 per dry ton, min 25 tons) – vote 2‑0 yes
• Approved Clark Street Rehabilitation Phase II contract with Insituform ($61,004) – vote 2‑0 yes
• Adjourned meeting – vote 2‑0 yes

Water Department

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to review department invoices and project updates. The agenda includes routine administrative tasks and a discussion on heat duct cleaning.

• Approval of November 5, 2025 minutes
• Review of invoices and signing of vouchers
• Water Department project updates
• Heat duct cleaning

Board of Water Commissioners

The Spencer Board of Water Commissioners will consider approving the minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting. They will also review invoices, sign vouchers, and approve a monthly financial commitment. Additional discussion will cover updates on water department projects, heat duct cleaning, and a cyber security assessment.

• Approve minutes from 11/5/25
• Review invoices and sign vouchers
• Sign monthly commitment
• Water department project updates
• Heat duct cleaning

Economic Development Committee

The Spencer Economic Development Committee will open the meeting, introduce its members, and select a Chair and Vice Chair. It will review recent EDC publications and discuss the committee's goals, priorities, and objectives. The committee will plan next steps, set the date for the next meeting, and invite citizen input before adjourning.

• Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
• Review of EDC publications
• Discussion of goals, priorities, and objectives
• Scheduling the next meeting
• Citizen input session

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen will discuss ambulance service proposals, review contracts for wireless facilities and road evaluations, and act on various license renewals and stop sign requests.

• Discussion on ambulance service proposals
• Review of wireless facility lease agreement with New Singular Wireless
• Contract with Haley Ward Engineering for Pleasant Street evaluation
• Public hearing on auto dealer license renewals
• Acceptance of donation for Spencer Senior Center

The Selectmen approved a 2:00 a.m. closing time on New Year’s Eve for establishments with alcohol pouring licenses. They also accepted an $11,543.40 donation from the Spencer Trailways Board for the Senior Center and approved numerous business, auto dealer, alcohol, and victualler licenses. A motion to forward all‑way stop requests to MassDOT did not carry.

• Approved 2:00 a.m. New Year’s Eve closing for alcohol establishments (Grigg‑yes, Viner‑yes, Howard‑yes, Hicks‑yes)
• Accepted $11,543.40 donation for Spencer Senior Center (Grigg‑yes, Viner‑yes, Howard‑yes, Hicks‑yes, Woodbury‑yes)
• Approved Class I business licenses (Grigg‑yes, Viner‑no, Howard‑yes, Hicks‑yes, Woodbury‑abstain)
• Approved Class II auto dealer licenses (Grigg‑yes, Viner‑no, Howard‑yes, Hicks‑yes, Woodbury‑abstain)
• Approved all listed alcohol pouring licenses (Grigg‑yes, Viner‑yes, Howard‑yes, Hicks‑yes, Woodbury‑yes)
• Approved common victualler licenses (Grigg‑yes, Viner‑yes, Howard‑yes, Hicks‑yes, Woodbury‑yes)
• Approved innkeeper license for Spencer Country Inn (Grigg‑yes, Viner‑yes, Howard‑yes, Hicks‑yes, Woodbury‑yes)
• Motion to send all‑way stop requests to MassDOT failed (Grigg‑no, Viner‑no, Howard‑yes, Hicks‑yes, Woodbury‑no)

Sewer Department

The Spencer Sewer Commissioners will review and approve the previous meeting minutes, examine monthly operations reports, and discuss budget and capital items, sewer system upgrades, and resident concerns. No specific contracts, rezoning actions, or dollar amounts are listed.

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will review monthly operations reports and budget and capital items. The meeting includes discussions on sewer system upgrades and resident concerns.

• Review of monthly operations reports
• Budget and capital items
• Sewer systems upgrades
• Resident concerns

The board approved the minutes from the October 21 and November 6, 2025 meetings by a 2‑0 vote. They waived a $30 late fee on the April bill and a $15 late fee on the July bill for 97 Cherry Street, with both commissioners voting yes. They also waived a $15 late fee from October 1, 2025 for 5 Casey Street, again unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 4:33 p.m.

• Approved minutes of Oct 21 & Nov 6, 2025 (2‑0)
• Waived $30 late fee on April bill for 97 Cherry St (unanimous)
• Waived $15 late fee on July bill for 97 Cherry St (unanimous)
• Waived $15 late fee from Oct 1 2025 for 5 Casey St (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Spencer Planning Board will hold a public hearing on tree work and removal at 20 William Casey Road, located in the Rural Residential zoning district and designated Scenic Roads. The board will also consider a Stormwater Authority delegation for 25 Marble Road and 130 Paxton Road. Additional agenda items include board liaison reports, a town planner report, citizen input, and approval of the October 21, 2025 minutes.

• Public hearing on tree removal at 20 William Casey Road (Scenic Road)
• Stormwater Authority delegation for 25 Marble Road & 130 Paxton Road
• General Board Discussion / Board Liaison Reports
• Town Planner Report
• Citizen Input

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen and the Spencer Finance Committee are holding a joint meeting with the Spencer East Brookfield Regional School District. The agenda includes discussion of the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The meeting will also cover other topics of common concern. No specific decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Discussion of the Fiscal Year 2027 budget with the Spencer East Brookfield Regional School District
• Consideration of other topics of common concern

The Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee, and East Brookfield School Committee met to review the FY 2027 school budget, which the school estimates will require about $2.4 million. Topics included Medicaid reimbursement, debt service, and staffing needs for foreign language, science, and music teachers, as well as field maintenance. No formal actions or votes on budget items were taken; the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen will conduct a public hearing on the town’s tax classification for fiscal year 2026. After the hearing, the board will review the classification and may take action on any changes. No other agenda items are listed.

• Public hearing on FY2026 tax classification
• Review and possible action on FY2026 tax classification

The Board opened a public hearing on tax classification options for FY2026 and then closed it after the presentation. They voted to adopt a single tax classification factor of 1 for FY2026, keeping a single tax rate for all property classes. All motions passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Opened public hearing on FY2026 tax classification (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on FY2026 tax classification (unanimous)
• Adopted single tax classification factor of 1 for FY2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Spencer Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several property applications, including a Notice of Intent for Stephen Boyle at 10 Laurel Lane and for Gerson Henrique at 130 Paxton Road. The commission will also consider requests for determination of applicability for properties at 21 Castle Lane (Elizabeth Putnam) and 33 Lakeshore Drive (Brian T. Clancey). A motion will be presented to approve a $15 charge to the Wetlands Account for Fundamentals Unit 207.

• Public Hearing – Notice of Intent for Stephen Boyle, 10 Laurel Lane (DEP#293-1103)
• Public Hearing – Notice of Intent for Gerson Henrique, 130 Paxton Road (no DEP# issued)
• Public Meeting – Request for Determination of Applicability for Elizabeth Putnam, 21 Castle Lane
• Motion to approve $15 charge to Wetlands Account (Fundamentals Unit 207)
• New application – E5/F6 Transmission Line – CofC soil boring work

The Conservation Commission approved the Notice of Intent for Stephen Boyle’s property with conditions and permission to work in the 25‑ft no‑touch zone. It also approved a negative determination with conditions for Elizabeth Putnam’s solar project and allowed work in the same protected zone. A negative determination with conditions was approved for Brian T. Clancey’s septic system project. All motions passed unanimously (6‑0).

• Approved Stephen Boyle NOI with conditions (6/0)
• Allowed work in 25‑ft no‑touch zone for Stephen Boyle (6/0)
• Approved Elizabeth Putnam negative determination with conditions (6/0)
• Allowed work in 25‑ft no‑touch zone for Elizabeth Putnam (6/0)
• Approved Brian T. Clancey negative determination with conditions (6/0)
• Closed public hearing for Stephen Boyle (6/0)
• Closed public meeting for Elizabeth Putnam (6/0)
• Closed public meeting for Brian T. Clancey (6/0)

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen will review and possibly act on several contracts and grant agreements, including a $100,000 FY2026 grant to pave East Charlton Road and an $8,000 grant for historic document preservation. They will also consider a manager change application for Wedgwood Beverages Inc., a police department recruiting request, and an appointment to the Bay Path School Committee. Additional agenda items include a dangerous‑dog hearing and updates on town services.

• Review & possible action on $100,000 FY2026 grant to pave East Charlton Road
• Review & possible action on $8,000 FY2026 grant for historic document preservation
• Review & possible action on contract for natural gas service
• Review & possible action on roof repairs at the Fire Station
• Review & possible action on snowplow contractor agreement for Winter 2025‑2026

The Board approved the October 6 minutes unanimously. It voted to classify Gunner as a dangerous dog and required muzzling and identification per MGL 140‑136A. It also approved a change of manager for Wedgwood Beverages, a police officer posting, and the appointment of Mary Barrell to the Bay Path School Committee, along with several contract and grant approvals.

• Approved October 6, 2025 minutes (4‑0)
• Deemed Gunner a dangerous dog; required muzzle and ID (4‑0)
• Approved change of manager for Wedgwood Beverages Inc. (4‑0)
• Approved posting of a full‑time Spencer Police Department officer (4‑0)
• Approved appointment of Mary Barrell to Bay Path School Committee (5‑0)
• Approved $8,000 historic document preservation grant (yes, abstain, yes)
• Approved $100,000 East Charlton Road paving grant (yes, abstain, yes, yes)
• Approved 12‑month natural gas contract with Sprague Energy (4‑0)

Board of Assessors

The Spencer Board of Assessors will review and vote to approve the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting. It will sign warrants for Supplemental, Motor Vehicle, and Boat Excise taxes and vote on several abatement applications and uncollectable excise amounts. Specific items include approval of nine motor vehicle abatement applications, a $4,580.85 schedule of uncollectable excises, and various monthly abatement lists for 2013, 2023, 2025, and boat excise. The board will also approve an apportionment of preliminary taxes for the parcel at 35 Brooks Pond Road, R51/5, and hold an executive session to discuss statutory exemption applications.

• Approve meeting minutes from October 20, 2025
• Sign warrants for Supplemental, Motor Vehicle, and Boat Excise taxes
• Approve 9+ motor vehicle abatement applications
• Approve Schedule of Uncollectable Excises $4,580.85
• Approve apportionment of preliminary taxes for 35 Brooks Pond Road, R51/5

The Board voted 3‑0 to approve ten tax abatement applications and several schedules of uncollectible excise and boat taxes. It also approved a partial release lien for Bedrosian Realty Trust, a new forest lien and management plan for Bement LLC, and a FY26 rollback/penalty tax of $5,261.37 for Bedrosian Realty Trust. Additionally, the Board approved numerous real‑estate tax exemptions for veterans, elderly/widows, agricultural/horticultural, and recreational parcels.

• Approved 10 tax abatement applications (3‑0)
• Approved Schedule of Uncollectible Excises $4,580.85 (3‑0)
• Approved October monthly abatements totals $4,444.91, $181.88, $2,144.20, $1,96.00 (3‑0)
• Approved partial release lien for Bedrosian Realty Trust parcels R01/17 & R01/18 (3‑0)
• Approved new forest lien and management plan for Bement LLC parcels R04/2, R04/7, R04/8 (3‑0)
• Approved FY26 rollback/penalty tax $5,261.37 for Bedrosian Realty Trust (3‑0)
• Approved Schedule of Uncollectible Boat Taxes FY16 $636.00 and FY17 $1,174.00 (3‑0)
• Approved multiple real‑estate tax exemptions (veterans, elderly/widows, agricultural, recreational) (3‑0)

Sewer Department

The Spencer Board of Sewer Commissioners will hold a meeting on November 6, 2025, to discuss budget and capital items. The session will take place at 3 Old Meadow Rd. and can be attended in person or remotely via a phone or computer link.

• Budget and capital items discussion
• Meeting held at 3 Old Meadow Rd.
• Remote participation available via phone or computer

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting at Town Hall. They will hold a Questions and Answers session with Town Counsel about warrant articles for the Special Town Meeting. The Finance Committee will vote on recommendations for those articles, and the Board will attend the Special Town Meeting at 7:00 PM.

• Questions and Answers with Town Counsel on Special Town Meeting warrant articles
• Finance Committee vote recommendations on warrant articles
• Board of Selectmen participation in Special Town Meeting at 7:00 PM

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting at 6:30 PM in McCourt Social Hall. They will hold a Q&A with Town Counsel on the Special Town Meeting warrant articles and vote on recommendations. Afterwards both bodies will move to the Great Hall for the Special Town Meeting at 7:00 PM, then adjourn.

• Q&A with Town Counsel on Special Town Meeting warrant articles
• Finance Committee vote on recommendations for warrant articles
• Joint participation of Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee in Special Town Meeting at 7:00 PM in the Great Hall

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Spencer Board of Sewer Commissioners will meet to discuss budget and capital items. No specific projects, contracts, or ordinances are listed on the agenda. The meeting may also address other matters permitted by law. The session will conclude with an adjournment.

The Board of Sewer Commissioners approved Change Order #38 for Septage Pumps VFDs and enclosure at a cost of $9,270.14. Both commissioners voted yes. The board also approved terminating the contract with Madigan Lime, issuing a termination notice dated November 6, 2025 effective November 24, 2025. Both commissioners voted yes on that motion.

• Approved Change Order #38 for Septage Pumps VFDs & enclosure ($9,270.14) (2-0)
• Approved termination of Madigan Lime contract (effective 11/24/2025) (2-0)

Town Clerk

The Special Town Meeting approved a $62,006 increase to the FY2026 general‑government operating budget and a $73,864 reduction in vocational school expenses. It also approved capital purchases including a $4,207.84 fire‑department security system, a $46,483.81 sewer‑department truck, a $9,000 fire‑department mini‑split unit, and a $11,560 police‑department mini‑split unit (outcome not recorded). The town transferred $173,680 from the O’Gara Park Improvements account to the Grandstand Improvement account and appropriated $100,000 for the Grandstand project. A request to pay a $2,345 prior‑year expense was rejected.

• Approved $73,864 decrease to vocational school appropriation (96‑8)
• Approved $62,006 increase to FY2026 general‑government operating budget (79‑22)
• Rejected $2,345 payment for prior‑year expense (93‑13)
• Approved $4,207.84 fire‑department security system purchase (82‑22)
• Approved $173,680 transfer to O’Gara Park Grandstand account (92‑22)
• Approved $100,000 appropriation for O’Gara Park Grandstand project (79‑32)
• Approved $46,483.81 sewer‑department pick‑up truck purchase (81‑28)
• Approved $9,000 fire‑department mini‑split unit purchase (81‑18)

Water Department

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to review invoices, sign vouchers, and discuss department project updates. The board will also address unbilled water usage accounts and specific service issues.

• Propane quotes
• Update on 117 Main St
• Bay Path Rd service lines
• Unbilled water usage accounts

Board of Water Commissioners

The Spencer Board of Water Commissioners will meet to approve previous minutes, sign vouchers, and review updates on water department projects including 117 Main St and Bay Path Rd service lines.

• Review and approve minutes from October 22, 2025
• Review invoices and sign vouchers
• Review water department project updates
• Review propane quotes
• Update on 117 Main St

Board of Health

The Spencer Board of Health will approve the minutes from the October 7, 2025 meeting. It will review land use applications that detail separation distances for wells, septic tanks, and sanitary setbacks at several addresses. The board will also consider animal permit applications for horses, chickens and ducks at three residential locations. The meeting will adjourn after these items are addressed.

• Approve minutes from the October 7, 2025 Board of Health meeting
• Review LUA for 33 Lakeshore Drive – SAS 74’ (required 100’) to existing abutters well
• Review LUA for 38 South Spencer Road – septic tank 10’ to proposed well (required 50’), SAS 53’ (required 100’)
• Review LUA for 86 Wilson Avenue – septic tank 9’ to owner's well (required 50’), SAS 51’ to owner's well (required 100’), SAS 74’ to abutters well (required 100’)
• Consider animal permit applications: 2 horses & 1 donkey at 21 Bond Street; 10 chickens at 8 Charron Street; 12 chickens & runner ducks at 9 Watson Street

The Spencer Board of Health unanimously approved septic system plans for 33 Lakeshore Drive, 38 South Spencer Road, 86 Wilson Avenue, and 2 Laurel Lane. It also approved animal permits for Dawn Foley's horses and donkey at 21 Bond Street, Dan Gladek's chickens at 8 Charron Street, and Caitlin Tupper's chickens and ducks at 9 Watson Street. The meeting minutes were approved and the session was adjourned.

• Approved 10/7/25 minutes (3-0)
• Approved septic plan at 33 Lakeshore Drive (3-0)
• Approved septic plan at 38 South Spencer Road (3-0)
• Approved septic plan at 86 Wilson Avenue (3-0)
• Approved septic plan at 2 Laurel Lane (3-0)
• Approved animal permit for 21 Bond Street (2 horses, 1 donkey) (3-0)
• Approved animal permit for 8 Charron Street (10 chickens) (3-0)
• Approved animal permit for 9 Watson Street (12 chickens/ducks) (3-0)

Water Department

The Spencer Water Commissioners will review and approve the minutes from the September 3, 2025 meeting. They will examine invoices, sign vouchers, and a monthly commitment. The board will receive project updates, discuss unbilled water usage, and consider engineering proposals to incorporate the 2025 sanitary survey into a water filter upgrade. Additional items include matters related to 23 Pleasant St and Leon Dr.

• Approve minutes from 9/3/25 meeting
• Review invoices and sign vouchers
• Sign monthly commitment
• Consider engineering proposals to incorporate 2025 sanitary survey into water filter upgrade
• Discuss items concerning 23 Pleasant St and Leon Dr

The Water Commissioners unanimously approved the September 3, 2025 meeting minutes. They also approved a backflow vendor contact for 117 Main St, a payment agreement for 10 Linden St, and the removal of a $45 late fee for 15 West Main St. Additional unanimous approvals included invoicing three unbilled accounts and selecting Tata & Howard’s engineering proposal for the water filter upgrade project.

• Approved September 3, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved contacting backflow vendor for 117 Main St (3-0)
• Approved payment agreement for 10 Linden St (3-0)
• Approved abating $45 late fee for 15 West Main St (3-0)
• Approved invoicing unbilled accounts at 105 Mechanic St, 61 Mechanic St, 97 Meadow Rd (3-0)
• Approved Tata & Howard engineering proposal for water filter upgrade (3-0)
• Approved adjournment of meeting (3-0)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will review and approve previous meeting minutes, sign monthly vouchers, and discuss water department project updates including a sanitary survey and filter upgrade.

• Approve minutes from 9/3/25
• Sign monthly commitment
• Review invoices and sign vouchers
• Engineering proposals for sanitary survey and filter upgrade
• Address 23 Pleasant St and Leon Dr

The Water Commissioners unanimously approved the September 3, 2025 meeting minutes and a payment agreement for 10 Linden Street. They also approved a $45 late‑fee abatement for 15 West Main Street, authorized invoicing of three unbilled water accounts, and adopted the Tata & Howard engineering proposal for the water filter upgrade.

• Approved September 3, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved payment agreement for 10 Linden St (3-0)
• Approved $45 late‑fee abatement for 15 W Main St (3-0)
• Approved invoicing of unbilled usage for 105 Mechanic St, 61 Mechanic St, 97 Meadow Rd (3-0)
• Approved Tata & Howard engineering proposal for water filter upgrade (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Spencer Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several Notice of Intent and applicability requests for properties on Main Street, Borkum Road, Oakland Drive, Marble Road, and Laurel Lane. The commission will also re‑sign the sign at 25 Paxton Road and review new applications for tree removal, septic systems, and a single‑family home project. Minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting will be approved.

• Re‑sign 25 Paxton Road – OOC
• Public hearing for Notice of Intent – Sean Wood, 322 & 324 Main Street
• Public hearing for Notice of Intent – George Lussier, 25 Marble Road
• Public hearing for Notice of Intent – Stephen Boyle, 10 Laurel Lane
• New applications: 21 Castle Lane (RDA tree removal), 55 Lakeshore Drive (RDA septic), 130 Paxton Road (NOI single‑family home, septic & driveway)

The Conservation Commission approved several negative determinations and wetland protections, including an out‑of‑condition approval for 322 & 324 Main Street and adding wetland markers in a 25‑ft no‑touch zone. It also approved a peer review of drainage at 25 Marble Road and continued hearings for 10 Laurel Lane and 25 Marble Road. The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 p.m.

• Approved OOC at 322 & 324 Main Street (5‑0)
• Approved adding 10‑12 wetland markers in 25‑ft no‑touch zone (5‑0)
• Approved negative determination for 43 Borkum Road (5‑0)
• Approved negative determination for 45 Oakland Drive (5‑0)
• Approved negative determination with replant conditions for 43 Oakland Drive (5‑0)
• Approved peer review for drainage at 25 Marble Road (5‑0)
• Continued hearing for 10 Laurel Lane to Nov 12 2025 (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:12 p.m. (5‑0)

Sewer Department

The Sewer Commissioners will review and approve the previous meeting minutes and monthly operations reports. They will discuss budget and capital items, planned sewer system upgrades, and any resident concerns that are raised.

• Review & approve previous minutes
• Review monthly operations reports
• Discuss budget & capital items
• Discuss sewer systems upgrades
• Address resident concerns

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Spencer Board of Sewer Commissioners will meet on Oct. 21, 2025 to consider several agenda items. The commission will review and approve the previous meeting’s minutes, examine monthly operations reports, discuss budget and capital items, consider sewer system upgrades, and hear resident concerns. Items may be added or omitted at the chair’s discretion.

• Review & approve previous minutes
• Review monthly operations reports
• Discuss budget & capital items
• Discuss sewer systems upgrades
• Address resident concerns

The Board approved the September 24, 2025 meeting minutes and authorized several change orders for sewer system upgrades, totaling over $30,000. It also approved connection fees for a new duplex and granted fee abatements for three residential properties. One change order for a sump‑pump upgrade was tabled. The meeting adjourned at 5:10 p.m.

• Approved September 24, 2025 minutes (2‑0 vote)
• Approved Change Order #38 for $9,118.95 (3‑0 vote)
• Approved Change Order #49 for $8,261.30 (3‑0 vote)
• Approved Change Order #51 for $5,474.95 (3‑0 vote)
• Approved Change Order #52 for $7,119.97 (3‑0 vote)
• Approved Leon Dr duplex connection fees $13,860.00 (3‑0 vote)
• Abated 30 Grant St sewer fee $863.61 (3‑0 vote)
• Abated 18 Highland St sewer fee $241.54 (3‑0 vote)

Planning Board

The Spencer Planning Board will meet to discuss a public hearing for a rear lot subdivision, approve invoices, and appoint a member to the Economic Development Committee.

• Public hearing for rear lot subdivision at 37 Marble Road
• Approval of Stonebridge Press invoice payment
• Appointment to the Economic Development Committee
• Discussion on allocation of 5 LPA hours for intermunicipal public works
• Boundary line adjustment for Hastings Road

The board approved an ANR for Hastings Road (5‑0) and an ANR for William Casey Road (5‑0). It also approved a special permit for a rear‑lot subdivision at 37 Marble Road (3‑0). Additional actions included approving a Stonebridge Press invoice, appointing Ms. Beford to the Economic Development Committee, and allocating five LPA hours for an intermunicipal agreement.

• Approved Hastings Road ANR (5-0)
• Approved William Casey Road ANR (5-0)
• Approved Special Permit for 37 Marble Road (3-0)
• Approved Stonebridge Press invoice for $235.20 (5-0)
• Appointed Ms. Beford to Economic Development Committee (5-0)
• Allocated 5 LPA hours for Spencer/East Brookfield Intermunicipal Public Works Agreement (5-0)
• Approved minutes for 9/16/2025 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:45 pm (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Spencer Board of Assessors will vote on a series of tax-related items, including approvals of over 36 abatement applications and several monthly abatement totals for 2023‑2025. It will also approve commitments and warrants for the FY26 Boat Excise Tax and for a supplemental tax, as well as rollback taxes for two Bedrosian Realty Trust parcels. The meeting includes a discussion of public‑disclosure updates for specific properties before the board reconvenes after an executive session.

• Approve 36+ abatement applications and deny 1 application
• Approve September monthly abatements: 2023 $428.88, 2024 $1,668.61, 2025 $4,775.92
• Approve FY26 Boat Excise Tax commitment and warrant $8,251.00
• Approve rollback taxes for Bedrosian Realty Trust parcels R01/17 $3,430.40 and R01/18 $1,830.97
• Discuss public‑disclosure changes for listed properties before submitting LA‑10 forms

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen will discuss a winter parking ban and a request from the Exchange Club to host a toll‑booth event on Main Street/Pleasant Street and at the Transfer Station. The board will review a hazard mitigation plan and consider hiring a police department telecommunicator. Two special‑override tax questions will be presented: one for an additional $150,000 to fund the Spencer Rescue Squad and another for $368,390 to fund four fire‑fighter positions. Several contracts and amendments will be reviewed, including a paving change order, a sidewalk grant increase of $71,648, a mutual‑aid agreement, and engineering services for stormwater.

• Winter Parking Ban review and action
• Special‑override tax question for $150,000 for the Rescue Squad
• Special‑override tax question for $368,390 for four Fire Department firefighters
• Contract amendment increasing Main and Ash Street sidewalk grant by $71,648
• Main + Ash Street Paving Project Change Order #1

The Selectmen approved Trick‑or‑Treat hours, the 2025‑26 winter parking ban, the Exchange Club toll‑booth event, and authorized recruitment of a police telecommunicator. They also cancelled two proposed special‑override tax questions for the Rescue Squad ($150,000) and the Fire Department ($368,390). Additionally, they approved a $50,318.95 change order for the Main and Ash Street paving project and a $32,200.00 Stormwater MS4 engineering contract.

• Approved Trick‑or‑Treat hours (5-0)
• Approved Winter Parking Ban 2025‑26 (5-0)
• Approved Exchange Club annual toll‑booth event (5-0)
• Authorized recruitment of Police Department telecommunicator (5-0)
• Cancelled $150,000 Rescue Squad special‑override question (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Cancelled $368,390 Fire Department special‑override question (3-1, 1 abstain)
• Approved Main + Ash Street paving Change Order #1 for $50,318.95 (5-0)
• Approved Stormwater MS4 engineering contract with BETA Engineering for $32,200.00 (5-0)

Sewer Department

The Spencer Board of Sewer Commissioners will meet to review monthly operations reports, discuss sewer system upgrades, and address budget and capital items. The meeting will be held in-person at 3 Old Meadow Rd. or remotely.

• Review and approve previous minutes
• Review monthly operations reports
• Sewer Systems Upgrades
• Budget & Capital Items
• Resident concerns

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Spencer Board of Sewer Commissioners will call the meeting to order, review and approve the previous meeting minutes, and examine monthly operations reports. They will discuss budget and capital items, sewer system upgrades, and resident concerns.

• Call the meeting to order
• Review & approve previous minutes
• Review monthly operations reports
• Budget & capital items
• Sewer systems upgrades

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a Special Permit application from Felicia Schaefer to operate a roadside gift stand at 68 Hastings Road in the Rural Residential district. It will also review a Variance request from Jeffrey & Laura Donahue to build a 22' x 22' garage with a lean‑to at 53 Jolicoeur Ave in the Lake Residential district. Additional agenda items include a discussion of gravel pit inspections and approval of the August 12, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Special Permit Finding – 68 Hastings Road (gift stand) – applicant: Felicia Schaefer
• Variance Permit Finding – 53 Jolicoeur Ave (22' x 22' garage) – applicants: Jeffrey & Laura Donahue
• Discussion of Gravel Pit Inspections (Bond Construction, Leo Aucoin, Moschini‑Royal Crest)
• Approval of Minutes from 8/12/2025
• Town Planner Report / New Business

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a Special Permit for Felicia Schaefer at 68 Hastings Road to operate a roadside gift stand, with the condition that she submit a photo showing dimensions. The board also approved a variance for Jeffrey and Laura Donahue at 53 Jolicoeur Avenue to construct a 22’ × 22’ garage with a 9’ × 22’ lean‑to, granting relief from the front‑setback requirement. Both approvals were voted 3‑0. The board also approved the minutes from 8/12/2025 with a typographical correction.

• Approved Special Permit for 68 Hastings Road gift stand (vote 3-0)
• Approved variance for 53 Jolicoeur Ave garage and lean‑to (vote 3-0)
• Approved 8/12/2025 minutes with correction (vote 3-0)
• Closed public hearing on Special Permit (vote 3-0)
• Closed public hearing on Variance (vote 3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (vote 3-0)

Finance Committee

The Spencer Finance Committee will approve minutes from previous meetings, hear reports from the DPHS Building, Capital Planning, and Building Reuse committees, and consider the Fall Special Town Meeting warrant with vote recommendations. The meeting also includes a public input period and comments from board members and staff.

• Approve minutes of August 26, 2025 and September 23, 2025
• Representative reports: DPHS Building Committee – Mary Braney; Capital Planning Committee – Chris Woodbury; Building Reuse Committee – Chris Bowen
• Town Administrator’s Report
• Review Fall Special Town Meeting Warrant and vote recommendations
• Public Input

The committee approved the minutes from the August 26 and September 23 meetings by unanimous vote. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:45 PM was also passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Approved August 26 and September 23 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:45 PM (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold continued public hearings on Notices of Intent for three properties: 322 & 324 Main Street, 25 Paxton Road, and 57 Jolicoeur Avenue. Additional agenda items include a request for a Certificate of Occupancy for 92 McCormick Road, a discussion of a Right of First Refusal, and a reimbursement request of $150 plus mileage up to $50 for conference attendance by Margaret Emerson. The meeting will also cover agent updates, citizen input, approval of minutes from 9/24/25, and review of new applications and continuances for other properties.

• Continue public hearing for Notice of Intent – 322 & 324 Main Street
• Continue public hearing for Notice of Intent – 25 Paxton Road
• Continue public hearing for Notice of Intent – 57 Jolicoeur Avenue
• Request for Certificate of Occupancy – 92 McCormick Road
• Conference attendance reimbursement – $150 plus mileage up to $50 for Margaret Emerson

The Conservation Commission voted to close public hearings and approve the Notices of Intent with conditions for 25 Paxton Road and 57 Jolicoeur Avenue, waiving the 25‑ft no‑touch zone for each. It also approved a Conservation Certificate of Completion for 92 McCormick Road and authorized use of WPA funds for conference attendance. All motions passed with the recorded vote tallies.

• Closed public hearing for 25 Paxton Road (5‑0)
• Waived 25‑ft no‑touch zone for 25 Paxton Road (5‑0)
• Approved NOI with conditions for 25 Paxton Road (3‑0)
• Closed public hearing for 57 Jolicoeur Avenue (5‑0)
• Waived 25‑ft no‑touch zone for 57 Jolicoeur Avenue (5‑0)
• Approved NOI with conditions for 57 Jolicoeur Avenue (5‑0)
• Approved Conservation Certificate of Completion at 92 McCormick Road (5‑0)
• Authorized use of WPA fund for conference attendance (5‑0)

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen will travel to Westfield, Massachusetts, on October 7, 2025, to tour Whip City Fiber, a division of the Westfield Gas and Electric Department. The purpose is to review the provider’s high‑speed internet operations. The visit is scheduled between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. No other agenda items are listed.

• Site visit to Whip City Fiber (Westfield Gas and Electric Dept.) at 40 Turnpike Industrial Rd, Westfield, MA

Board of Health

The Spencer Board of Health will approve the minutes from the August 5, 2025 meeting. It will consider a Land Use Application for 2 Marble Road, requesting a reduction in groundwater to 3 feet, which is below the required 4 feet. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Approval of minutes from August 5, 2025
• LUA for 2 Marble Road, Laforce: reduction in groundwater to 3' (4' required)
• Adjournment

The Board of Health called the meeting to order and approved the minutes from August 5, 2025. It then approved the LUA plan for 2 Marble Road, which reduces the required groundwater depth to 3 feet. The meeting was adjourned at 6:37 p.m.

• Approved 8/5/25 minutes (3-0)
• Approved LUA plan for 2 Marble Road, reducing groundwater to 3 ft (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen will review and possibly act on two special election override proposals: one for $368,390 to fund fire department staffing and another for $150,000 for contractual expenses for the Spencer Rescue Squad. The agenda also includes a hearing on a dangerous dog and approval of a posthumous Meritorious Service Award for William Shemeth III. Additional items are reviews of contracts, change orders, and bids for projects such as the Lake Street School remediation and the Sudgen Public Library.

• Special election override proposal for $368,390 to fund fire department staffing
• Special election override proposal for $150,000 for Spencer Rescue Squad contractual expenses
• Hearing on a dangerous dog
• Change order #1 for Lake Street School Remediation and Demolition Project
• Change order #6 for Sudgen Public Library Project

The Board approved a special election on Dec. 9, 2025, to let voters decide a $368,390 tax override for additional fire department firefighters. It also approved a $150,000 tax override election for the Spencer Rescue Squad, mandated that the dog Gunner be muzzled and evaluated by Nov. 4, and approved a posthumous Meritorious Service Award for William Shemeth III. All motions were adopted with the recorded vote tallies.

• Approved special election Dec 9 for $368,390 fire department staffing (5-0)
• Approved special election Dec 9 for $150,000 Spencer Rescue Squad funding (4-1)
• Mandated muzzle for dog Gunner and professional evaluation by Nov 4 (5-0)
• Approved posthumous Meritorious Service Award for William Shemeth III (5-0)
• Approved September 8 meeting minutes (5-0)

Board of Health

The Spencer Board of Health will first approve the minutes from the January 6, 2026 meeting. It will then discuss the land‑use application for 40 Lambs Grove, Dumais, noting that the proposed setbacks are shorter than the required distances. Finally, the board will hear a discussion with Marty German about regulations for buoys at Luther Hill Beach.

• Approval of minutes from the January 6, 2026 meeting
• Land‑use application (LUA) for 40 Lambs Grove, Dumais – setbacks of 60’, 51’, and 10’ are below the required 100’ and 20’ distances
• Discussion with Marty German on Luther Hill Beach buoy regulations

Sewer Department

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will meet to review monthly operations reports and previous minutes. The agenda includes discussions on budget, capital items, and sewer system upgrades.

• Review of monthly operations reports
• Budget and capital items
• Sewer systems upgrades
• Resident concerns

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Spencer Board of Sewer Commissioners will review and approve the previous meeting minutes and monthly operations reports. Commissioners will discuss budget and capital items, planned sewer system upgrades, and address resident concerns. Decisions may be made on funding allocations and upgrade projects.

• Review & approve previous minutes
• Review monthly operations reports
• Budget & capital items
• Sewer systems upgrades
• Resident concerns

The board approved the minutes from the August 20, August 27 and September 4 meetings (2‑0). It waived a $15 late fee for the owner at 39 Lincoln St (2‑0). It set a minimum sewer charge of $230.55 for the Meadow Rd Car Wash (2‑0). The meeting was adjourned at 5:10 p.m.

• Approved minutes of Aug 20, Aug 27 & Sep 4 2025 (2-0)
• Waived $15 late fee for 39 Lincoln St (2-0)
• Charged minimum sewer rate of $230.55 for Meadow Rd Car Wash (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:10 p.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on the Notice of Intent for the Sean Wood property at 322 & 324 Main Street (DEP#293-1092). It will also continue public meetings for the Request for Determination of Applicability for Glenna Stocks (12 Shore Drive) and the Notice of Intent for Andrew Nathanson & Cheryl Lavash (25 Paxton Road). The agenda includes opening an amended Order of Conditions for Laura Ernst of New England Power Company for the T20 transmission line between Meadow Road and William Casey Road (DEP#293-1074) and reviewing Certificate of Fit requests for 92 McCormick Road and 72 Thompson Pond Road.

• Public hearing – Notice of Intent for Sean Wood Property, 322 & 324 Main Street (DEP#293-1092)
• Public meeting – Request for Determination of Applicability for Glenna Stocks, 12 Shore Drive
• Public meeting – Notice of Intent for Andrew Nathanson & Cheryl Lavash, 25 Paxton Road (no DEP# issued)
• Amended Order of Conditions – Laura Ernst, New England Power Company, T20 transmission line between Meadow Road & William Casey Road (DEP#293-1074)
• Certificate of Fit requests – 92 McCormick Road and 72 Thompson Pond Road

The Conservation Commission approved several motions, all passing with a 6‑0 vote. Actions included amending an order of conditions for a transmission line, approving a 25‑ft no‑touch waiver, and granting a Certificate of Compliance for 72 Thompson Pond Road. The meeting minutes were approved and the session adjourned at 7:25 p.m.

• Closed public meeting (Emerson/Snow) – passed 6‑0
• Negative determination with items discussed (Snow/Bellmer) – passed 6‑0
• Amended Order of Conditions for Laura Ernst project (Bellemer/Emerson) – passed 6‑0
• Approved 25‑ft no‑touch waiver (Emerson/Snow) – passed 6‑0
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 72 Thompson Pond Road – passed 6‑0
• Approved 9/10/25 minutes as amended (Snow/Bellemer) – passed 6‑0
• Adjourned meeting at 7:25 p.m. (Snow/Bellemer) – passed 6‑0

Finance Committee

The Spencer Finance Committee will review town audits from fiscal years 2023 and 2024, elect officers for FY2026, and discuss budget updates including free cash and retained earnings. The body will also review the warrant for the upcoming Fall Special Town Meeting.

• Review of FY2023 and 2024 town audits
• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk for FY2026
• Appointment of Finance Committee representatives
• Review of Fall Special Town Meeting Warrant
• Budget update: Free Cash and Retained Earnings

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will review the Fall Town Meeting Warrant and snow plowing contract rates for FY2026. The board will also consider a vendor selection and lease for a cellular tower at the former Lake Street School. Several contracts for architectural services, stormwater reporting, and equipment auctions are on the agenda.

• Vendor selection and lease consideration for former Lake Street School cellular tower
• Snow Plowing Contract Rates FY2026
• Architectural services contract with Context Studios for O’Gara Park Grandstand Project
• Annual MS4 Stormwater Report contract with Fuss & O’Neil
• Surplus equipment auction agreement with Auctions International Inc.

The Selectmen approved the AT&T proposal for a cellular tower at the former Lake Street School and authorized negotiations. They also approved the FY2026 snow‑plowing rates, a contract for O’Gara Park Grandstand architectural services, a MassDOT change order for Meadow Road, the annual MS4 stormwater report contract, and an agreement for surplus equipment auction services. All motions passed with the recorded vote tallies.

• Approved AT&T tower proposal and authorized lease negotiation (5‑0)
• Approved FY2026 snow plowing contract rates (5‑0)
• Approved Context Studios contract for O’Gara Park Grandstand project (5‑0)
• Approved MassDOT no‑cost change order for Meadow Road Project ($29,520.96) (3‑0‑2 abstain)
• Approved Fuss & O’Neil contract for annual MS4 stormwater report ($5,500) (5‑0)
• Approved Auctions International agreement for surplus equipment auction services (5‑0)
• Approved minutes for August 18, 2025 meeting (5‑0)

Planning Board

The Spencer Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a special permit request by Lussier Enterprises, LLC to create a rear lot subdivision at 37 Marble Road in the Rural Residential district. A separate public hearing will address tree removal work on William Casey Road scenic road, filed by Brande Tarantino of National Grid Forestry Division. The board will also discuss boundary line adjustments on Hastings Road and William Casey Road, a right‑of‑first‑refusal matter, a DPHS minor change request, and adoption of the Master Plan, followed by board elections and routine reports.

• Public Hearing – Special Permit for rear lot subdivision, 37 Marble Road, Lussier Enterprises, LLC
• Public Hearing – Tree removal on William Casey Road scenic road, applicant Brande Tarantino, National Grid Forestry Division
• ANR – Boundary Line Adjustments on Hastings Road and William Casey Road (R01‑17, R01‑18) by Almik Construction
• Discussion – Right of First Refusal on William Casey Road, Bedrosian Realty Trust
• Discussion – Master Plan Adoption

The board voted 5‑0 to endorse the Master Plan, confirming it as the town’s guiding document. It also approved the Scenic Road tree‑removal permit, the DPHS minor change request, and continued several ANR applications until October 21, 2025. Additional actions included maintaining current board officer positions and adopting the meeting minutes.

• Endorsed the Master Plan (5‑0)
• Approved Scenic Road tree‑removal permit on William Casey Rd (5‑0)
• Approved DPHS parking lot and landscaping minor changes (5‑0)
• Approved ANR for William Casey Rd (R01‑18) (5‑0)
• Continued ANR for Hastings Rd until 10/21/2025 (5‑0)
• Continued ANR for William Casey Rd (R01‑17) until 10/21/2025 (5‑0)
• Continued special permit hearing for 37 Marble Rd until 10/21/2025 (3‑0)
• Kept board officer positions unchanged (5‑0)

Board of Assessors

The Board will review and vote to approve the meeting minutes from August 11, 2025. It will vote to approve more than 25 abatement applications. It will also vote to approve July’s monthly abatements for 2024 totaling $45.75 and for 2025 totaling $4,054.31. An executive session will be held to discuss Applications for Statutory Exemptions under Chapter 59 § 60.

• Approve meeting minutes from August 11, 2025
• Approve 25+ abatement applications
• Approve July 2024 abatements totaling $45.75
• Approve July 2025 abatements totaling $4,054.31
• Executive session to discuss Applications for Statutory Exemptions (Ch 59 § 60)

The Board approved the minutes from the August 11, 2025 meeting by a 2‑0 vote. It also approved the motor vehicle agenda item by a 2‑0 vote. The Board approved 30 abatement applications and adopted the August 2024 and August 2025 monthly abatement lists totaling $45.75 and $4,054.31. Finally, it approved a series of veteran and blind exemption applications for FY25‑FY26 with amounts ranging from $175 to $1,000.

• Approved August 11, 2025 meeting minutes (2‑0)
• Approved motor vehicle agenda item (2‑0)
• Approved 30 abatement applications
• Approved August 2024 abatement list ($45.75)
• Approved August 2025 abatement list ($4,054.31)
• Approved 22E veterans exemption applications for FY26 ($1,000 each) for listed owners
• Approved reduced‑amount 22E veterans exemption for FY25 for Christopher Smith
• Approved 22a‑e veterans exemption applications for FY26 ($400 each) for listed owners

Conservation Commission

The Spencer Conservation Commission will hold public hearings for a Notice of Intent on Main Street and several Request for Determination of Applicability items. The body will also discuss other business and review new applications for the next meeting.

• Public hearing for Sean Wood property at 322 & 324 Main Street
• Public meeting for Travis Connor property at 91 Wilson Avenue
• Public meeting for Glenna Stocks property at 12 Shore Drive
• Public meeting for 611 Chelmsford, LLC at 78 Donnelly Road
• Public meeting for Andrew Nathanson & Cherly Lavash at 25 Paxton Road

The Conservation Commission approved the shed project at 78 Donnelly Road and waived the 25‑ft no‑touch buffer, requiring the owner to notify the commission of the chosen location. It also approved Certificates of Completion for 47 Washburn Drive and 20 Lakeview Drive, and voted to support the Oakham Battery Project. All motions passed unanimously with a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved shed project at 78 Donnelly Road, requested owner notification (6‑0)
• Waived the 25‑ft no‑touch zone for the 78 Donnelly Road shed (6‑0)
• Negative determination for 78 Donnelly Road: move building back, cut trees with notification (6‑0)
• Issued Certificate of Completion for 47 Washburn Drive (6‑0)
• Issued Certificate of Completion for 20 Lakeview Drive (6‑0)
• Supported Oakham Battery Project with a motion for highest standards (6‑0)
• Negative determination for 91 Wilson Avenue: 7 trees removed, 15 replacement bushes (6‑0)
• Approved minutes from 8/27/25 as amended (6‑0)

Conservation Commission

The Spencer Conservation Commission will continue the public hearing on the Notice of Intent for Sean Wood's property at 322 & 324 Main Street (DEP#293-1092). The commission will also open public meetings to consider requests for determination of applicability for properties at 91 Wilson Avenue, 12 Shore Drive, and 78 Donnelly Road, as well as a Notice of Intent for 25 Paxton Road. Additional agenda items include several requests for Certificates of Conservation, a Right of First Refusal discussion for Bedrosian Realty Trust on William Casey Road, and the Oakham Battery Project.

• Continue public hearing for Notice of Intent – Sean Wood, 322 & 324 Main Street (DEP#293-1092)
• Open public meeting for Request for Determination of Applicability – Travis Connor, 91 Wilson Avenue
• Open public meeting for Request for Determination of Applicability – Glenna Stocks, 12 Shore Drive
• Right of First Refusal discussion – Bedrosian Realty Trust, William Casey Road (R01-17 & R01-18)
• Oakham Battery Project

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board approved an extra work order with MassDOT to reline the 24‑inch sewer on Route 9 at a cost of $91,994. It also approved stopping the flat‑rate sewer charge for the DPHS athletic field sprinkler line. The meeting minutes were approved.

• Approved $91,994 Rt 9 24‑inch sewer reline extra work order (unanimous)
• Approved discontinuation of flat‑rate sewer charge for DPHS athletic field sprinkler line (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes for 9/4/2025 (unanimous)

Water Department

The Water Commissioners unanimously accepted the proposed water rate increase for FY 2026. They also approved the August 6, 2025 meeting minutes, waived a $30 late fee for the 39 Lincoln St owner, and declined to waive a $30 late fee for the 24 Paxton Rd owner. Additional actions included sending a shut‑off list to the Board of Health, denying a parking‑lot paving proposal, and postponing discussions on inactive‑account usage and cleaning quotes.

• Approved new water rates for FY 2026 (3‑0)
• Approved August 6, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Waived $30 late fee for 39 Lincoln St owner (unanimous)
• Did not waive $30 late fee for 24 Paxton Rd owner (unanimous)
• Approved sending Single Family Shut‑off List to Board of Health (unanimous)
• Tabled water usage on inactive accounts until next meeting
• Denied parking lot paving proposal (unanimous)
• Denied cleaning floor/window quotes; approved duct cleaning quote and tasked superintendent to obtain two additional duct‑cleaning quotes (tabled)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board accepted the proposed water rates for FY 2026, voting 3‑0. They also approved the August 6, 2025 meeting minutes, waived a $30 late fee for the 39 Lincoln St property, and denied a waiver for 24 Paxton Rd. The parking lot paving proposal was denied, and the list of single‑family shut‑offs will be sent to the Board of Health. Several items, including cleaning quotes and water usage on inactive accounts, were tabled for future discussion.

• Approved FY 2026 water rates (3-0)
• Approved August 6, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Waived $30 late fee for 39 Lincoln St (3-0)
• Denied $30 late fee waiver for 24 Paxton Rd (3-0)
• Approved sending single‑family shut‑off list to Board of Health (3-0)
• Denied parking lot paving proposal
• Tabled discussion on water usage for inactive accounts
• Denied cleaning quotes except duct cleaning; superintendent to obtain two additional duct‑cleaning quotes (tabled)

Water Department

The Water Commissioners approved the July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0). They voted to extend the repair deadline for 41 Mechanic St to Aug 29, 2025, to make the 9A Cottage St account active, and to send the draft Water Department Rules & Regulations to Town Counsel (each 3‑0). They also approved a 5% water‑rate increase with a public hearing set for Sep 3 and passed over the late‑fee issue for 19 Bixby Rd (both 3‑0).

• Approved July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Extended repair deadline for 41 Mechanic St to Aug 29, 2025 (3‑0)
• Made 9A Cottage St account active with initial read 7/28/25 (3‑0)
• Approved 5% water rate increase; public hearing scheduled Sep 3 (3‑0)
• Directed Superintendent to send draft rules to Town Counsel for review (3‑0)
• Passed over late‑fee concern for 19 Bixby Rd (3‑0)

Master Plan Advisory Committee

The committee voted 5-0 to approve the final draft of the town's Master Plan. No discussion was recorded for the motion. The meeting was then adjourned by a 5-0 vote. Both actions were carried out as recorded.

• Approved final draft of Master Plan (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Sewer Department

The Board of Sewer Commissioners will meet to discuss budget and capital items. The primary focus of the meeting is sewer systems upgrades.

• Sewer systems upgrades

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board voted to approve the purchase of a 2025 Chevy Colorado pickup for $46,483.8 1. It also approved change orders #25 ($17,092.95), #28 ($7,552.96), #39 ($3,933.39 pending price change), #41 ($1,992.59 pending price change), #45 ($5,191.15 pending price change) and #48 ($5,243.11 pending price change). Both votes were unanimous (Larry‑yes, Frank‑yes). The meeting was adjourned at 1:55 pm.

• Approved purchase of 2025 Chevy Colorado pickup ($46,483.8 1)
• Approved change order #25 ($17,092.95)
• Approved change order #28 ($7,552.96)
• Approved change order #39 ($3,933.39 pending price change)
• Approved change order #41 ($1,992.59 pending price change)
• Approved change order #45 ($5,191.15 pending price change)
• Approved change order #48 ($5,243.11 pending price change)

Conservation Commission

The commission approved several Notices of Intent, granted a negative determination for one property, and accepted an amended Order of Conditions for Burncoat Pond. It also extended the Order of Conditions for John Jolin for two years, nominated Mary McLaughlin as chair, set the next meeting for December 17, 2025, and gave administrative approval for Japanese knotweed treatment.

• Approved NOI for Merrilee Sprague-Allen (41 Oakland Drive) (4-0)
• Accepted NOI for Cody Berman with conditions (5-0)
• Negative determination for 47 Oakland Drive (5-0)
• Accepted amended Order of Conditions for Burncoat Pond (5-0)
• Extended Order of Conditions for John Jolin 2 years (5-0)
• Nominated Mary McLaughlin as commission chair (5-0)
• Set next meeting date to Dec 17, 2025 (5-0)
• Granted administrative approval for Japanese knotweed treatment at 88 Wire Village Road

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The commissioners approved the July 23, 2025 meeting minutes. They accepted a $4,700 JC Madigan quote for a snowplow package. They approved relining a 24‑inch, approximately 325‑foot sewer pipe on Route 9. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 23, 2025 meeting minutes (2‑0 roll‑call)
• Accepted JC Madigan snowplow quote $4,700.00 (2‑0 roll‑call)
• Approved relining of 24" pipe, ~325 ft on Rt 9 (2‑0 roll‑call)
• Adjourned meeting (2‑0 roll‑call)

Planning Board

The Spencer Planning Board will convene to discuss the adoption of the Master Plan, review a request for a proposal regarding the Spencer Zoning Bylaw, and hold elections for board leadership positions. The meeting will be held at McCourt Social Hall on Main Street.

• Discussion: Master Plan Adoption
• Discussion/Review: Spencer Zoning Bylaw Request for Proposal
• Board Elections: Chairperson, Vice Chair, and other positions
• Stormwater Delegation to Conservation at 322 & 324 Main Street
• Allocation of 12 LPA Hours for Aquatic Invasive Species Study

The Planning Board voted unanimously to delegate stormwater permit authority for 322 & 324 Main Street and Valley & Mill Street to the Conservation Commission. It also approved a Request for Proposals to review the town's Zoning Bylaw, and confirmed appointments for the Building and Property Reuse Committee, CMRPC, and the MVP 2.0 Core Team. Additionally, 12 LPA hours were allocated to support the Aquatic Invasive Species Study.

• Delegated stormwater permit authority to Conservation Commission (4-0)
• Approved RFP for comprehensive Zoning Bylaw review (4-0)
• Nominated Charlie Bellemer as Building and Property Reuse Committee delegate (4-0)
• Nominated Shirley Shiver to continue as CMRPC delegate (4-0)
• Appointed Charlie Bellemer to MVP 2.0 Core Team (4-0)
• Allocated 12 LPA hours to CMRPC Aquatic Invasive Species Study (4-0)
• Continued Master Plan discussion to September 16, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved minutes from July 15, 2025 (4-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board approved a $973,450 bond to fund the Wastewater Plant Improvement Project. It also adopted the 2026 Licensing Fee Schedule and filled vacant senior clerk and firefighter positions. Additional actions included designating a CMRPC delegate, approving a one‑way traffic pattern for the Spencer Fair, and granting several entertainment and malt‑beverage licenses for upcoming events.

• Approved $973,450 bond for Wastewater Plant Improvement (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Licensing Fee Schedule (5-0)
• Approved filling vacant Senior Clerk position (5-0)
• Approved filling vacant Firefighter position (5-0)
• Approved Jared Grigg as CMRPC delegate and John Howard as alternate (5-0)
• Approved one‑way traffic pattern on Smithville Road for Spencer Fair (3-1)
• Approved Spencer Agricultural Association entertainment license for Fair Aug 29‑Sep 1 (5-0)
• Approved Rapscallion Brewery one‑day malt beverage licenses for multiple dates (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Spencer Conservation Commission approved several Requests for Determination of Applicability (RDAs) and a Certificate of Compliance, and continued three Notice of Intent hearings to the August 27 meeting. All approval motions passed unanimously (4‑0) except one with a 5‑0 vote to close a meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m.

• Approved RDA for 16 Ledge Ave (deck) – motion passed 4‑0
• Approved RDA for Valley & Mill St (road improvement) – motion passed 4‑0
• Approved RDA for 159 South Spencer Rd (farm pond) contingent on highway approval – motion passed 4‑0
• Approved RDA for 15 Washburn Terrace (tree removal) – motion passed 4‑0
• Approved RDA for 76 Chickering Rd with erosion controls – motion passed 4‑0
• Approved NOI for Gold Nugget Rd (R44/35‑4) with conditions – all in favor
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 8 Pine Avenue – motion passed 4‑0
• Continued hearings for Sean Wood (322 & 324 Main St), Merrilee Sprague‑Allen (41 Oakland Dr) and Cody Berman (43 Point Eastalee Dr) to 8/27/25

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board voted 3‑0 to approve a variance allowing a detached garage in the front setback at 106 McCormick Road. It also voted 3‑0 to appoint Board member Jeffrey Butensky to the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) 2.0 Team, pending eligibility confirmation. The minutes from the July 8 meeting were approved 3‑0 and the meeting was adjourned at 7:40 pm.

• Approved variance for 106 McCormick Road garage front setback (3-0)
• Appointed Jeffrey Butensky to MVP 2.0 Team, contingent on eligibility (3-0)
• Approved July 8, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Closed public hearing on variance application (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:40 pm (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board approved the July 14, 2025 meeting minutes and a motor‑vehicle item, each by a 2‑0 vote. It approved 34 abatement applications, the July 2024 abatements total of $120.44, the July 2025 abatements total of $4,892.15, and a commitment and warrant of $88,363.58. The Board also approved FY26 504 property valuations and a series of real‑estate tax exemption applications for FY25 and FY26. No other business was taken up.

• Approved July 14, 2025 meeting minutes (2‑0 vote)
• Approved motor vehicle item (2‑0 vote)
• Approved 34 abatement applications
• Approved July 2024 abatements total $120.44
• Approved July 2025 abatements total $4,892.15
• Approved FY26 commitment and warrant $88,363.58
• Approved FY26 504 property valuations
• Approved multiple tax exemption applications (22D, 22E, 22A‑E) for FY25/FY26

Board of Water Commissioners

The Water Commissioners approved the July 10, 2025 meeting minutes and voted to pass over a late‑fee request from 19 Bixby Rd because the manager was absent. They extended the repair deadline for 41 Mechanic St to Aug 29, 2025, approved a 5% water‑rate increase pending a Sep 3 public hearing, re‑activated the 9A Cottage St account, and ordered the draft Water Department Rules & Regulations sent to Town Counsel for review. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Passed over 19 Bixby Rd manager request (3‑0)
• Extended 41 Mechanic St repair deadline to Aug 29, 2025 (3‑0)
• Approved 5% water‑rate increase, public hearing Sep 3 (3‑0)
• Activated 9A Cottage St account with initial read 7/28/25 (3‑0)
• Ordered draft Water Dept. Rules & Regulations sent to Town Counsel (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (3‑0)

Board of Health

The board approved the July 1, 2025 minutes after amendment. It approved septic system plans for 21 Lake Avenue and 43 Point Eastalee Drive. The board also approved an animal permit for 12 chickens at 10 Jones Street. The meeting was adjourned at 6:59 p.m.

• Approved July 1, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved septic plan for 21 Lake Avenue, Sjosten (3-0)
• Approved septic plan for 43 Point Eastalee Drive, Berman (3-0)
• Approved animal permit for 12 chickens at 10 Jones Street (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:59 p.m. (3-0)

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board approved the minutes from June and July 2025 with a 2‑0 vote. It approved change orders 19, 31, 36, 40, 42, 44 and 46 totaling $414,176.81, also by a 2‑0 vote. The Board waived $120.00 in late fees for eight accounts, again with a unanimous 2‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned by a 2‑0 vote.

• Approved June 11, 17, 25 & 30 and July 8, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Approved change orders 19, 31, 36, 40, 42, 44 & 46 totaling $414,176.81 (2-0)
• Waived $120.00 late fees for eight accounts (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the amended Order of Conditions for 19 Whittemore Cove (4‑0) and for 20 Whittemore Cove (5‑0). It also approved the Notice of Intent for the Greenville Street property and for 72 Thompson Pond Road, each by unanimous vote. Several public hearings were continued to August 13, 2025, and the minutes from the June 25 meeting were tabled to the next meeting.

• Approved amended Order of Conditions for 19 Whittemore Cove (4‑0)
• Approved amended Order of Conditions for 20 Whittemore Cove (5‑0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for Greenville Street (3‑0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for 72 Thompson Pond Road (4‑0)
• Continued public hearing for Valley & Mill Street to Aug 13, 2025
• Continued public hearing for 322 & 324 Main Street to Aug 13, 2025
• Tabled June 25 minutes to Aug 13, 2025 (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:01 p.m. (4‑0)

Planning Board

The board voted 3‑0 to endorse the amendment of the ANR request for 155 Paxton Road submitted by Diana Andrews. The adoption of the Master Plan was postponed pending a recommendation from the Master Plan Committee. Minutes from June 30, 2025 were approved with amendments by a 3‑0 vote. Board elections were tabled until all members are present.

• Endorsed ANR plan for 155 Paxton Road (3-0 vote)
• Postponed Master Plan adoption (pending committee recommendation)
• Approved June 30, 2025 minutes as amended (3-0 vote)
• Tabled board elections (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0 vote)

Board of Assessors

The Spencer Board of Assessors approved the June 2025, 2024 and 2023 monthly abatements lists, totaling $3,876.70, $279.00 and $136.64 respectively, and authorized 33 individual abatement applications. It also approved a series of tax exemption applications, including full‑amount 22D and 22E veterans exemptions for FY26, reduced‑amount 22E veterans exemptions for FY25, and $400 FY26 veterans exemptions, as well as FY25 blind and 41C applications.

• Approved June 2025 abatements list ($3,876.70)
• Approved June 2024 abatements list ($279.00)
• Approved June 2023 abatements list ($136.64)
• Approved 33 individual abatement applications
• Approved FY26 full‑amount 22D veteran exemption applications (3 listed)
• Approved FY26 full‑amount 22E veteran exemption applications (multiple applicants)
• Approved FY25 reduced‑amount 22E veteran exemption applications (2 listed)
• Approved FY26 $400 veteran exemption applications and FY25 blind and 41C applications

Board of Selectmen

The Spencer Board of Selectmen approved a change of ownership for Wedgewood Beverages' all‑alcoholic beverages license and granted Cornerstone Bank both a one‑day wine license and an entertainment license for a September 14 event. The Board also approved FY2025 budget transfer requests and contracts for gas and diesel fuel, tree‑pruning services, and an extension of the temporary fiber‑optic IT coordinator position. Minutes from the June 23, 2025 meeting were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved Wedgewood Beverages license change (5‑yes)
• Approved Cornerstone Bank one‑day wine & malt license (5‑yes)
• Approved Cornerstone Bank entertainment license for Sept 14 event (5‑yes)
• Approved FY2025 budget transfers as listed (5‑yes)
• Approved bid for gas and diesel fuel to Burke (5‑yes)
• Approved tree pruning services contract to Dillon Tree Services (5‑yes)
• Approved extension of fiber‑optic IT coordinator temporary position (5‑yes)
• Approved minutes for June 23, 2025 (5‑yes)

Water Department

The commissioners approved the May 7, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. They waived late fees for several residents, approved payment agreements, and ordered the owner of 41 Mechanic Street to install copper piping with department‑provided components, setting an August 8, 2025 deadline or risk service disconnection. The superintendent will prepare two water‑rate proposals featuring 3% and 5% increases.

• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Waived $30 late fee for 62 Meadow Rd (unanimous)
• Approved payment agreement for 12 Linden St: $500 weekly on $4,821.31 balance (unanimous)
• Directed owner of 27 Church St to pay $300 every 2 weeks (unanimous)
• Waived $240 late fees for 350 Main St & 0 Town House Court (unanimous)
• Authorized contact with owner’s sister at 10 Sunset Ln to arrange payment or possible shutoff (unanimous)
• Required owner of 41 Mechanic St to use copper piping; department to provide curb stop and riser, deadline Aug 8, 2025 or service will be disconnected (unanimous)
• Superintendent to prepare two water‑rate structures (3% and 5% increase) for commission review

Board of Water Commissioners

The board unanimously approved the May 7, 2025 meeting minutes. It waived a $30 late fee for 62 Meadow Rd, waived $240 late fees for 350 Main St and 0 Town House Court, accepted a $500‑weekly payment agreement for 12 Linden St, set a $300‑every‑2‑weeks schedule for 27 Church St, and directed contact with the owner’s sister at 10 Sunset Ln about payment. The board also required the owner of 41 Mechanic Street to install copper piping, with the department providing a curb stop and riser and an August 8, 2025 deadline before possible service disconnection. No other actions were taken.

• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Waived $30 late fee for 62 Meadow Rd (unanimous)
• Waived $240 late fees for 350 Main St & 0 Town House Court (unanimous)
• Accepted payment agreement for 12 Linden St: $500 weekly on $4,821.31 balance (unanimous)
• Set payment schedule for 27 Church St to $300 every 2 weeks (unanimous)
• Directed contact with owner’s sister at 10 Sunset Ln to arrange payment or consider shutoff (unanimous)
• Required owner at 41 Mechanic St to use copper piping; department to provide curb stop and riser, deadline Aug 8, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board approved a waiver to use NAVD 1988 for the wireless tower application and granted the special permit for a 120‑foot monopole at 46 Greenville Street, adding a preliminary $40,000 stormwater bond and requiring an updated bond before a building permit. The Board also approved a variance for 39 Sherman Grove to extend a deck under the non‑conforming structures provision. Donna Parker was re‑elected as Chairperson, the June 10 minutes were approved, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:41 p.m.

• Approved waiver for section 4.8.5.I.a to use NAVD 1988 (3‑0)
• Granted special permit for 46 Greenville Street wireless data facility with $40,000 stormwater bond condition (3‑0)
• Granted variance for 39 Sherman Grove non‑conforming deck extension (3‑0)
• Re‑elected Donna Parker as Chairperson (3‑0)
• Approved minutes of 6/10/2025 (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:41 p.m. (4‑0)

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The commissioners unanimously approved hiring Julien Cournoyer as a new laborer at $25.93 per hour. They also approved the minutes from the July 23, 2025 meeting. The public meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved hiring of laborer Julien Cournoyer at $25.93/hr (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 7/23/25
• Adjourned public meeting

Board of Health

The Spencer Board of Health unanimously approved septic system plans for six properties: 72 Thompson Pond Road, 123 Charlton Road, 25.5 High Street, 223 Charlton Road, 6 Williams Drive, and 38 South Spencer Road. The board also approved a permit for ten chickens at 246 Main Street. All motions passed with a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved septic plan for 72 Thompson Pond Road (3‑0)
• Approved septic plan for 123 Charlton Road (3‑0)
• Approved septic plan for 25.5 High Street (3‑0)
• Approved septic plan for 223 Charlton Road (3‑0)
• Approved septic plan for 6 Williams Drive with conditions (3‑0)
• Approved septic plan for 38 South Spencer Road (3‑0)
• Approved chicken permit for 246 Main Street (10 hens) (3‑0)
• Approved May 12, 2025 minutes (3‑0)

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Sewer Commissioners approved a $32,500 extension for Tighe & Bond engineering services and a $13,500 extension for Wright‑Pierce engineering services. They also accepted a $37,650 fee to extend Builders Risk Insurance through December 30, 2025. All three items passed unanimously.

• Approved Tighe & Bond engineering extension up to $32,500 (Larry‑yes, Frank‑yes)
• Approved Wright‑Pierce engineering extension up to $13,500 (Larry‑yes, Frank‑yes)
• Accepted Builders Risk Insurance fee increase of $37,650 (Larry‑yes, Frank‑yes)
• Adopted minutes from 7/23/2025 (Larry‑yes, Frank‑yes)
• Adjourned public meeting at 1:16 pm (Larry‑yes, Frank‑yes)

Planning Board

The board unanimously endorsed the ANR for 503 East Main Street and accepted a waiver request for the GoVenture self‑storage project. It then approved GoVenture’s major site plan, special permit and stormwater permit, and approved Vertex Towers’ major site plan and stormwater permit for a 120‑foot wireless data facility. The board also approved a deed restriction and Mylar for 19 Laurel Lane and adopted the May 20 minutes.

• Endorsed ANR plan for 503 East Main Street (5-0)
• Accepted waiver request for GoVenture self‑storage site (5-0)
• Approved GoVenture major site plan, special permit and stormwater permit with conditions (5-0)
• Approved Vertex Towers major site plan and stormwater permit for 120‑ft monopole (5-0)
• Approved deed restriction and endorsed Mylar for 19 Laurel Lane (5-0)
• Approved minutes from 5/20/2025 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board closed the public hearing and approved a variance allowing a 6‑by‑36‑foot covered porch on 152 Ash Street, subject to a condition limiting the existing foundation to a maximum of six feet to the posts or footings. The board also decided to prepare a draft of this condition for review before future public hearings. The meeting was adjourned at 7:37 p.m.

• Closed the public hearing on the variance (vote 4-0)
• Approved variance for 152 Ash Street with foundation condition (vote 4-0)
• Decided to prepare a draft of the foundation condition for future hearings
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:37 p.m. (vote 4-0)

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The commissioners approved a reduced construction extension for CH Nickerson, setting the amount at $134,219. They also approved an additional impact and inspection fee of $35,200 for 126 Main Street. The request for a pool adjustment at 6 Lake Street was tabled pending meter readings. The meeting was adjourned and the minutes were later approved on July 23, 2025.

• Approved CH Nickerson construction extension of $134,219 (vote: all 3 in favor)
• Approved additional I&I fee of $35,200 for 126 Main St (vote: all 3 in favor)
• Amended previous I&I fee of $8,800 for 126 Main St (vote: all 3 in favor)
• Tabled pool adjustment request for 6 Lake St pending meter reads
• Approved meeting minutes on 7/23/2025

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the plans for Craftsmen Homes LLC at 55 Brooks Pond Road with specific conditions, voting 4‑0. It also approved a Request for Determination of Applicability for Dave M. Harris (5‑0) and released surety and enforcement bonds for Debbie Drive properties (each 4‑0). Several hearings were continued to July 9, 2025, and partial certificates of completion were issued for other properties.

• Approved RDA for Dave M. Harris (5‑0)
• Approved conditioned plans for Craftsmen Homes LLC (4‑0)
• Continued hearing for Sean Wood properties to 7/9/25
• Continued hearing for Town Utilities project to 7/9/25
• Released surety bond for 9 Debbie Drive (4‑0)
• Issued partial CofC for 18 North Spencer Road (4‑0)
• Issued CofC for 178 Northwest Road (4‑0)
• Released Enforcement Order for 5 Debbie Drive (4‑0)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen unanimously approved the FY2025 budget transfers and accepted the formation of a regional 9‑1‑1 emergency communication district with neighboring towns. They also approved orders of taking for H.J. Perron Road and Taylor Drive and a series of contracts, including dumpster and trash trailer services, library roof repairs, and an agreement for testing the battery waste site at 10 Meadow Road.

• Approved FY2025 budget transfers (5-0)
• Approved acceptance of regional 9‑1‑1 emergency communication district agreement (5-0)
• Approved order of taking for H.J. Perron Road and Taylor Drive (5-0)
• Approved FY26 dumpster services contract ($195 per trip, $170 disposal fee) (5-0)
• Approved trash trailer hauling services contract with McNamara Waste ($800 per load) (5-0)
• Approved library roof change order #4 (Ornamental Downspout Coverclips) $1,772 (5-0)
• Approved library roof change order #5 (Attic stairs access reconfiguration) $4,640.85 (5-0)
• Approved agreement with CMG Environmental Engineering for 10 Meadow Road battery waste site testing (5-0)

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Sewer Commissioners voted to approve a three‑month time extension for the sewer system upgrade, costing about $240,000. The extension moves the substantial completion date to September 30, 2025 and the final completion date to November 30, 2025. The motion was made by Larry Dufault, seconded by Frank White, and passed unanimously.

• Approved 99‑day, $240,000 time extension for sewer project (motion by Larry, second by Frank, all in favor)
• Adjourned public meeting at 1:32 pm (motion by Larry, second by Frank, all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the Notice of Intent for vegetation clearing at the Sugden Dam (3 Lakeview Drive) with a unanimous 4‑0 vote. It also issued Certificates of Completion for 9 Debbie Drive and 21 Jolicur Avenue, and adopted negative determinations for tree‑removal applications at 19 Wilson Avenue and 20 Laurel Lane. Several items were continued or held pending further information.

• Negative determination with plant swap for 19 Wilson Ave (4‑0)
• Negative determination for 20 Laurel Lane project (4‑0)
• Approved NOI for vegetation clearing at Sugden Dam, 3 Lakeview Dr (4‑0)
• Issued Certificate of Completion for 9 Debbie Drive (4‑0)
• Issued Certificate of Completion for 21 Jolicur Ave (4‑0)
• Held CofC for 18 North Spencer Rd pending wetland markers
• Postponed CofC for 178 Northwest Rd pending additional site visit
• Issued Enforcement Order for 25 Paxton Rd

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Sewer Commissioners approved the FY26 Waste Management service agreement with specified haul, disposal, and rental rates. They also approved fee adjustments for 126 Main St, abated $15 late fees for two properties, and authorized a barn connection at 1 Demers Dr. The request for a time‑extension on the C.H. Nickerson project was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved FY26 Waste Management agreement (haul $363.83, disposal $140.70, rental $38.20) – 3-0
• Approved minutes of May 14, 2025 – 3-0
• Approved barn connection at 1 Demers Dr – 2-1
• Approved additional I&I fee of $8,800 for 126 Main St – 3-0
• Abated $15 late fee for 9 Starr St – 3-0
• Abated $15 late fee for 62 Meadow Rd – 3-0
• Tabled C.H. Nickerson time‑extension request – postponed
• Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting – 3-0

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board voted 3‑0 to continue the public hearing for the Vertex Towers wireless data facility at 46 Greenville Street, setting a new hearing date of July 8, 2025 and requiring a lease agreement, Highway Department comments on a driveway waiver, and BSC Group’s final peer review. The board also approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting (vote 4‑0) and adjourned the session at 7:57 pm (vote 4‑0). No public comments were made.

• Continued public hearing for 46 Greenville Street wireless data facility (vote 3-0)
• Approved minutes from 5/21/2025 with edits (vote 4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:57 pm (vote 4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board elected Nancy Herholz as Chairman by a 3‑0 vote. It approved multiple property tax abatements for April and May 2024 and 2025, including $8,541.54 for April 2025 and $11,702.89 for May 2025. The Board adopted the FY26 preliminary bills, committing $10,203,707.47 for real estate, $390,277.68 for personal property, $129,036.12 for Stiles Water District, and $3,460.15 supplemental. Additional approvals included 73 abatement applications and a fire‑damage abatement for Cynthia Levey.

• Elected Nancy Herholz Chairman (3‑0)
• Approved Motor Vehicle item (3‑0)
• Approved 73 abatement applications
• Approved April 2025 abatements $8,541.54
• Approved May 2025 abatements $11,702.89
• Approved FY26 preliminary bills: Real Estate $10,203,707.47, Personal Property $390,277.68, Stiles Water District $129,036.12, Supplemental $3,460.15
• Approved fire abatement for Cynthia Levey $1,390.74
• Approved commitment and warrant for 2025‑03 $116,881.64

Board of Selectmen

The Board reorganized its leadership, naming Jared Grigg as Chair, Jonathan Viner as Vice Chair, and Dr. Ralph Hicks as Clerk. It approved a series of one‑day special malt licenses for Timberyard Brewing Company and held the alcohol‑license transfer for Tulence Inc. The Board also approved acknowledging the town’s financial responsibility for the school district’s $59‑$63 million debt service. Additional approvals included an ambulance services agreement, student transportation contracts, an emergency‑planning inter‑municipal agreement, and an all‑way stop control program.

• Approved Jared Grigg as Chair (5-0)
• Approved Jonathan Viner as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Approved Dr. Ralph Hicks as Clerk (5-0)
• Approved Special Malt License for Timberyard Brewing Company (5-0)
• Approved holding Tulence Inc. alcohol‑license transfer (5-0)
• Approved acknowledgment of school district debt responsibility (5-0)
• Approved ambulance services agreement with Spencer Rescue Squad (5-0)
• Approved all‑way stop control program for Meadow Road at Pleasant Street (3-2)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved a positive determination for Robert Cusson's fire‑pond sediment removal and an ANRAD for Scott Adams' wetland delineation, each by a 5‑0 vote. It also approved the Notice of Intent for GoVenture Capital Group's East Main Street project with an Order of Conditions, again by a 5‑0 vote. The board decided to meet with Wire Village School about storm‑water basin debris and adjourned the meeting at 8:24 p.m.

• Approved positive determination for Robert Cusson fire‑pond work (5‑0)
• Approved ANRAD for Scott Adams wetland delineation (5‑0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for GoVenture Capital Group with conditions (5‑0)
• Motion to close public meeting for Robert Cusson passed (5‑0)
• Motion to close public hearing for Scott Adams passed (5‑0)
• Motion to close public hearing for GoVenture passed (5‑0)
• Decided to meet with Steve Femino about storm‑water basin debris (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed (5‑0)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen approved the May 12 meeting minutes (3-0-1). They voted to hire Sarah G. Ruhin as a temporary health benefits coordinator (4-0) and to allow Administrator Jeff Bridges to carry over five vacation days (4-0). The board also opened and later closed the public hearing on the former Lake Street School brownfield project (both 4-0). No formal actions were taken on the Spencer Rescue Squad contract, Cataldo Ambulance proposal, or the Town Common idea.

• Approved May 12 minutes (3-0-1)
• Hired Sarah G. Ruhin as temporary health benefits coordinator (4-0)
• Allowed Jeff Bridges to carry over five vacation days (4-0)
• Opened public hearing on Lake Street School brownfield project (4-0)
• Closed public hearing on Lake Street School brownfield project (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:45 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board reviewed the $325,000 rescue squad budget for FY26 and examined potential impacts of a federal Medicaid change. Members considered offering a one‑year contract to the Spencer Rescue Squad and initiating an RFP process, though no formal contract was approved. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (all in favor)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board voted 3‑0 to continue the public hearing on the 46 Greenville Street wireless data facility until June 10, 2025. It also approved a special permit to convert the barn at 6 Lincoln Street into a two‑family dwelling (3‑0) and a special permit for Ashley L’Esperance to teach music from her home at 28 Adams Street (3‑0). The minutes from April 8, 2025 were approved (3‑0) and the meeting was adjourned at 8:19 pm (4‑0).

• Continued public hearing for 46 Greenville St wireless data facility (vote 3-0)
• Approved special permit for 6 Lincoln St conversion to two‑family dwelling (vote 3-0)
• Approved special permit for 28 Adams St home occupation to teach music (vote 3-0)
• Approved minutes for 4/8/2025 (vote 3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:19 pm (vote 4-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board unanimously voted to continue the public hearings for the GoVenture Capital Group self‑storage project and the Vertex Towers wireless data facility until June 30, 2025. The Board also approved the May 15, 2025 minutes (4‑0, one abstention) and adjourned the meeting at 8:23 pm.

• Continue GoVenture Capital Group major site plan and stormwater hearing (5‑0)
• Continue Vertex Towers wireless data facility hearing (5‑0)
• Approve May 15, 2025 minutes (4‑0, 1 abstain)
• Adjourn meeting at 8:23 pm (5‑0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for 7 Wilson Ave with a 6‑0 vote. It also issued negative determinations with replanting requirements for 56 Valley Street (Geraldine Johnson) and 35 Pine Acres (Mark Masiello), each passing 6‑0. Several public hearings were continued to later dates, and the minutes and adjournment were approved unanimously.

• Negative determination with replanting for Geraldine Johnson, 56 Valley St – passed 6‑0
• Negative determination for Mark Masiello, 35 Pine Acres – passed 6‑0
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 7 Wilson Ave – passed 6‑0
• Approved changes to the Order of Conditions for 8 Sycamore Ave – approved (unanimous among listed members)
• Continued hearing for South Spencer Road at Cranberry River – postponed to 6/11/25
• Continued hearing for 3 Lakeview Drive – postponed to 6/11/25
• Continued hearing for East Main (R35 1‑3) – postponed to 5/28/25
• Approved minutes as amended – passed 6‑0

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Board approved the minutes from the April 17, 2025 meeting with a 2‑0 vote. A motion to waive the $15 late fee for the April bill at 5 Holmes St was passed unanimously. A second motion to waive the $15 late fee for the April bill at 18 Ash St was also passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved minutes of April 17, 2025 (2-0)
• Waived $15 late fee for 5 Holmes St (2-0)
• Waived $15 late fee for 18 Ash St (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Board of Health

The Spencer Board of Health approved the minutes from the April 1 meeting. It granted chicken permits for 103 Pleasant Street (six chickens) and 2 Debbie Drive (ten hens). The board also adopted the amended town tobacco regulations. The meeting was adjourned at 6:37 p.m.

• Approved April 1, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Approved chicken permit for 103 Pleasant Street – six chickens (3‑0)
• Approved chicken permit for 2 Debbie Drive – ten hens (3‑0)
• Approved amended Tobacco Regulations (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:37 p.m. (3‑0)

Water Department

The Water Commissioners approved the April 2, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0). They waived a $30 late fee for the 84 Cherry St owner and authorized a $5,000 contract for engineering services for the Meadow Road treatment plant improvements. The board also approved grant requests of $2.59 million for filter upgrades and $500,000 for distribution system upgrades, and signed a revised termination policy. No water main replacements are scheduled for the 2025 construction season.

• Approved April 2, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Waived $30 late fee for 84 Cherry St owner (unanimous)
• Funded $5,000 engineering services proposal for Meadow Road plant (unanimous)
• Approved grant requests: $2,590,000 for filters and $500,000 for distribution upgrades (unanimous)
• Signed revised Termination Policy increasing fee from $60 to $120
• Declared no water main replacements scheduled for 2025 construction season

Board of Water Commissioners

The Water Commissioners approved the April 2, 2025 meeting minutes and waived a $30 late fee for a resident. They funded a $5,000 engineering services proposal and authorized grant requests of $2.59 M and $0.5 M for water‑filter and distribution upgrades. The board also adopted a revised termination policy and announced no water main replacements for 2025.

• Approved April 2, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Waived $30 late fee for 84 Cherry St (3-0)
• Approved $5,000 funding for engineering services proposal (3-0)
• Approved grant requests: $2,590,000 for water filters and $500,000 for distribution upgrades (3-0)
• Declared no water main replacements scheduled for 2025 construction season
• Adopted revised Termination Policy increasing fee from $60 to $120
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed all in favor)

Town Clerk

The Annual Town Meeting approved several budget appropriations, including $134,000 for snow and ice general expenses and $4,000 for snow and ice salaries. Voters also adopted a consent agenda, set spending limits for departmental revolving funds, and approved FY 2026 salaries and new personnel compensation schedules. An $50,000 appropriation for the OPEB fund and wage scales was also passed. The request to appropriate $80,000 for legal expenses was introduced but no vote outcome is recorded.

• Approved $134,000 Snow & Ice General Expenses (116-21)
• Approved $4,000 Snow & Ice Salaries transfer (115-18)
• Approved $2,757.85 Office of Developmental Services payment (88-21)
• Adopted consent agenda covering multiple grant, fine, and finance items (111-26)
• Set departmental revolving fund spending limits for FY 2026 (91-20)
• Approved FY 2026 elected officials salaries (102-37)
• Approved revised Personnel Bylaws schedules with 2.15% wage increase (101-39)
• Approved $50,000 OPEB fund appropriation and FY 2026 wage scales (114-26)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission continued the GoVenture hearing to May 14, 2025. It issued negative determinations for the Tom Pelletier addition request and for CSX Transportation’s vegetative treatment plan, each by a 5‑0 vote. The commission also approved several administrative approvals and a partial Certificate of Compliance, all by unanimous votes.

• Continued GoVenture hearing to 5/14/25 (no vote recorded)
• Negative determination for Tom Pelletier addition request (5-0)
• Negative determination for CSX Transportation vegetative treatment (5-0)
• Approved Administrative Approval for tree removal at 52 Browning Pond Circle (5-0)
• Approved partial Certificate of Compliance for 10 Powers Street (5-0)
• Approved Administrative Approval for tree removal at 17 Lakeshore Drive (5-0)
• Approved minutes from 4/9/25 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:13 p.m. (5-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved a series of actions, including taking two streets as public ways, adding tax‑bill information to envelopes, and adopting the 2025‑2028 police collective bargaining agreement. It also approved several contracts and grants, such as Phase 2 of the municipal fiber optic network and a paving contract for the Highway Department salt shed. All motions passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved amended February 10, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Adopted order of taking H.J. Perron Road as a public way (5‑0)
• Adopted order of taking Taylor Drive as a public way (5‑0)
• Approved Phase 2 contract with CommTrac Corp for Spencer municipal fiber optic network (5‑0)
• Approved 2025‑2028 collective bargaining agreement with Spencer Police Association #175 (5‑0)
• Approved contract with P.J. Keating for paving Highway Department Salt Shed ($94,400) (5‑0)
• Approved change order for Sugden Library roof project (5‑0)
• Approved tax collector to add information to tax envelopes (5‑0)

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Sewer Commissioners approved the March 19 meeting minutes and several budget items, including a $63,100 amendment for the Clark Street sewer rehab and engineering fees of $84,200 and $77,700 for sewer rehabilitation projects. They also approved four change orders and abated late fees of $15 and $1,500 for two residents. All actions passed with a 2‑0 roll‑call vote.

• Approved March 19, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Approved $63,100 Clark Street Sewer Rehab amendment (2-0)
• Approved $84,200 engineering fee for North & Grove Street project (2-0)
• Approved $77,700 engineering fee for Federal Earmark project (2-0)
• Approved $13,862.86 fire alarm flow switches change order (2-0)
• Approved $4,574.69 CMU brick installation change order (2-0)
• Approved $7,261.24 radio antenna relocation change order (2-0)
• Approved $1,908.90 slab demolition change order (2-0)

Planning Board

The Board voted 4-0 to endorse the ANR plan for 155 Paxton Road. It also voted 4-0 to continue public hearings for the GoVenture Capital Group self‑storage project and the Vertex Towers wireless data facility, both postponed to May 20, 2025. The Board approved payment of the Stonebridge Press invoice for $411.60 and approved the minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 6:38 pm.

• Endorsed ANR plan for 155 Paxton Road (vote 4-0)
• Continued public hearing for GoVenture Capital Group site (vote 4-0)
• Continued public hearing for Vertex Towers wireless facility (vote 4-0)
• Approved payment of Stonebridge Press invoice $411.60 (vote 4-0)
• Approved minutes for 3/18/2025 (vote 4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:38 pm (vote 4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved a $188,551.37 commitment and warrant, and voted 2‑0 to switch the town's mapping company to CAI Technologies. It also approved 99 abatement applications and several monthly abatement lists for 2024‑2025. Additional approvals included real‑estate and personal‑property abatements and permission for the principal assessor to sign a Chapter 61A lien for Brad Giggey.

• Approved $188,551.37 commitment and warrant (vote recorded)
• Approved change of mapping company to CAI Technologies (2‑0)
• Approved permission for principal assessor to sign Chapter 61A lien for Brad Giggey (motion passed)
• Approved 99 abatement applications (2‑0)
• Approved March 2025 abatements $17,043.21 (2‑0)
• Approved March real‑estate abatements FY25 $2,975.00 (2‑0)
• Approved March personal‑property abatements FY25 $1,186.53 (2‑0)
• Approved Veterans exemption applications totaling $400.00 (2‑0)

Conservation Commission

The commission approved an amended Order of Conditions for 8 Wilson Street and issued a negative determination for the 69 Lakeshore Drive project. It also approved the Browning Pond project with conditions and issued its Certificate of Compliance. Additional approvals were made for conditions, work within a 25‑ft no‑touch zone, and a storm‑water permit at the U28‑135 Spencer‑Leicester site. Hearings for the South Spencer Road and 3 Lakeview Drive projects were continued to May 14, 2025.

• Approved amended Order of Conditions for 8 Wilson Street (4-0)
• Issued negative determination for 69 Lakeshore Drive (Jay Gallant) (4-0)
• Approved Browning Pond project with conditions (4-0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for Browning Pond (4-0)
• Approved conditions for U28-135 Spencer‑Leicester (4-0)
• Approved work within 25‑ft no‑touch zone at U28-135 (4-0)
• Approved SW Permit for U28-135 Spencer‑Leicester (4-0)
• Continued hearings for South Spencer Road and 3 Lakeview Drive to May 14, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals continued the special permit application for 46 Greenville Street until May 21, 2025. It voted to find no substantial detriment for the proposed addition at 20 Whittemore Cove, allowing the deck and loft construction. The board approved a $200 reimbursement for a variance fee and adopted the February 11, 2025 minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 pm.

• Continued special permit for 46 Greenville Street until May 21, 2025 (vote 3-0)
• Found no substantial detriment for 20 Whittemore Cove addition (vote 3-0)
• Reimbursed $200 variance fee to 20 Whittemore Cove owner (vote 3-0)
• Approved minutes from 2/11/2025 (vote 3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:23 pm (vote 3-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved the FY2026 Capital Improvement Plan and reappointed Patricia Woods as registrar for three years. It also approved a toll‑booth event for the David Prouty Athletic Boosters, a Fish & Game Club alcohol‑license amendment, and a municipal pavement agreement with MassDOT. Two ballot questions were adopted to allow additional property‑tax levies of $1,348,390 and $211,500 for school, fire, rescue, highway and police funding. The board further approved an amendment to the Charlton Coalition public‑health agreement adding East Brookfield.

• Approved FY2026 Capital Improvement Planning Committee report (5-0)
• Reappointed Patricia Woods as registrar for three years (5-0)
• Approved David Prouty Athletic Boosters toll‑booth request (5-0)
• Approved Fish & Game Club alcohol‑license amendment (5-0)
• Set ballot question 1 for $1,348,390 tax override (5-0)
• Set ballot question 2 for $211,500 tax override (5-0)
• Approved MassDOT municipal pavement agreement for Rt. 31 (5-0)
• Approved amendment to public‑health collaborative adding East Brookfield (5-0)

Water Department

The Water Commissioners approved payment agreements for two residents, authorized an immediate shut‑off for the Main St property with a $9,367.71 overdue bill, and approved the surplus of two department vehicles. They also approved a three‑year GIS service agreement with Schneider Geospatial and adopted a policy on partial payments for shut‑offs. All actions were approved unanimously (3‑0).

• Approved February 5, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Approved payment agreement for 15 Pioneer Valley Rd balance $1,971.75 (3‑0)
• Approved payment agreement for 6 Lake St balance $909.52 (3‑0)
• Approved immediate shut‑off for Main St (old CVS) balance $9,367.71 (3‑0)
• Approved surplus of 2011 Ford F350 & Ford Ranger (3‑0)
• Approved 3‑year GIS service agreement with Schneider Geospatial (3‑0)
• Approved policy: owners with partial payments over $150 remain on shut‑off list (3‑0)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Water Commissioners approved the February 5, 2025 meeting minutes and several payment agreements for residents with outstanding balances. They also approved the immediate shut‑off of the Main St (Old CVS) property, surplus of two town vehicles, and a three‑year GIS service agreement with Schneider Geospatial. Finally, they adopted a policy that owners who make partial payments above $150 will be placed on the termination list for shut‑offs.

• Approved February 5, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Approved payment agreement for 15 Pioneer Valley Rd – $200 on 3/28/25, balance by 4/30/25 (unanimous)
• Approved payment agreement for 6 Lake St – $200 every 2 weeks on $909.52 balance (unanimous)
• Approved immediate shut‑off for Main St (Old CVS) property with outstanding $9,367.71 (unanimous)
• Approved surplus of 2011 Ford F350 & Ford Ranger (unanimous)
• Approved 3‑year service agreement with Schneider Geospatial, cost split with Sewer Department (unanimous)
• Adopted policy: partial payments over $150 place account on termination list for shut‑offs (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board approved the February 4 minutes with a 2‑0 vote. It approved an animal permit for nine chickens for Anthony Larachelle at 3 Sherwood Drive, also by a 2‑0 vote. The review of the amended Tobacco Regulations was tabled until the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned with a 2‑0 vote.

• Approved February 4 minutes (2-0)
• Approved animal permit for 9 chickens (Anthony Larachelle, 3 Sherwood Drive) (2-0)
• Tabled review of amended Tobacco Regulations until next meeting (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for 18 Laurel Lane after reviewing the inspection report. It also issued a Notice of Violation for erosion at 4 & 6 Eagleton Street and granted administrative approvals for 358 Main Street and 1 Washburn Drive. The commission recommended Article 33 to align the quorum definition with state law and continued several public hearings to later dates.

• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 18 Laurel Lane (5‑0)
• Issued Notice of Violation for erosion at 4 & 6 Eagleton Street
• Granted Administrative Approval for 358 Main Street
• Granted Administrative Approval for 1 Washburn Drive
• Recommended Article 33 quorum definition for Town Meeting (5‑0)
• Continued GoVenture NOI hearing to Apr 23 2025
• Continued South Spencer Road NOI hearing to Apr 9 2025
• Closed public hearing (5‑0) and adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen met at the Senior Center for a public information session about a possible Proposition 2½ ballot question. Presentations were given by the Town Administrator, the Utilities and Facilities Superintendent, the Police Chief, and a rescue squad member. The Board took questions from the public but did not vote on any action. The meeting was adjourned at 11:08 a.m. by unanimous consent.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board voted 2‑0 to award Bishop and Associates the contract for revaluing real‑estate properties. It also authorized the Principal Assessor to release the old lien on parcel R25/16 and to record an updated lien for parcel R38/31‑1. The next Board meeting was set for April 14, 2025 at 4:00 pm. The meeting adjourned at 4:10 pm.

• Awarded revaluation contract to Bishop and Associates (2-0)
• Authorized release of old lien on parcel R25/16 (2-0)
• Authorized recording of updated lien for parcel R38/31-1 (2-0)
• Scheduled next Board meeting for April 14, 2025 at 4:00 pm (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:10 pm (2-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen convened a public information meeting to present and discuss the proposed Proposition 2½ ballot question. Presentations were given by the Town Administrator, Utilities and Facilities Superintendent, Fire Chief, Police Chief, and a member of the Spencer Rescue Squad. The Board fielded questions and comments from the public. No formal vote or decision on the proposition was taken.

Board of Sewer Commissioners

The Sewer Commissioners approved the meeting minutes from February 12, 25 & 27, 2025 (3‑0). They voted to approve an on‑call engineering service agreement not to exceed $10,000 (3‑0) and a Wright‑Pierce task order for $6,900 (3‑0). The board decided not to pursue a sewer‑abatement for the old CVS leak. Insituform work on May and Ash Streets was also approved to begin soon.

• Approved February 12, 25 & 27, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Approved on‑call engineering service contract up to $10,000 (3‑0)
• Approved Wright‑Pierce task order for $6,900 (3‑0)
• Decided not to process a sewer abatement for the old CVS leak
• Approved Insituform work on May and Ash Streets to start soon