Sterling public meetings in 2025

Finance Committee

The Sterling Finance Committee will discuss the results of the DPW Charrette. It will review FY2027 capital budget requests, liaison meeting plans, and key reports, with a possible vote on the budget. The committee will also consider approval of the FY27 Annual Town Meeting calendar and schedule a Stand and Present presentation, which may also be voted on. Any remaining items will be addressed under Other Business.

• Discussion of DPW Charrette results
• FY2027 capital budget discussion and possible vote (summary of requests, liaison meetings, open projects and assets reports)
• Review and approval of FY27 Annual Town Meeting calendar
• Stand and Present presentation scheduling discussion and possible vote
• Other Business

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved several zoning amendments, including exempting agricultural operations from a ban on steel containers and Conex boxes in residential districts. It set a 1,800‑square‑foot maximum for each residential unit in the proposed Compact Development Overlay District and revised the inclusionary housing bylaw to require affordable units be comparable to market‑rate units. The Board also moved senior housing to a By‑Right use, removed age‑related provisions, and updated road standards and open‑space definitions.

• Exempted agricultural operations from ban on steel containers & Conex boxes in residential districts
• Limited size of each residential unit in Compact Development Overlay District to 1,800 sq ft
• Revised inclusionary housing bylaw: removed off‑site affordable unit provision and required affordable units match market‑rate size, appearance, and bedrooms
• Left multifamily housing bylaw unchanged and advanced senior housing bylaw as a By‑Right use
• Removed provision restricting residents under 18 from senior housing projects
• Replaced bedroom‑limit with 1,800 sq ft unit size limit for senior housing projects
• Aligned road/driveway standards with AASHTO and excluded drainage facilities from open‑space calculations
• Approved November 20, 2025 meeting minutes

Capital Budget Committee

The Sterling Capital Budget Committee will discuss the results of a Department of Public Works charrette and review the FY2027 capital budget requests. The committee will also schedule liaison meetings with departments and review the FY27 Annual Town Meeting calendar.

• Discussion on DPW Charrette results
• FY2027 Capital Budget Discussion and possible vote(s)
• Review and Approval of FY27 Annual Town Meeting (ATM) Calendar
• Liaison meetings with Depts - schedule/process
• Stand and Present presentation scheduling discussion

Board of Health

The Sterling Board of Health will review and approve meeting minutes and receive an agent report. It will consider a comprehensive update to the communication policy and receive a town counsel/DEP update on home and green burials. An executive session is scheduled to discuss complaints against a public officer or employee. Public comment will be limited to three minutes per speaker.

• Review and approve minutes
• Agent report
• Communication policy update
• Town counsel/DEP update on home and green burials
• Executive session to discuss complaints against a public officer or employee

The Board of Health moved into executive session after a unanimous 3‑aye vote. After the executive session, the board unanimously voted to adjourn the meeting. No other formal actions were approved or denied.

• Enter executive session (unanimous 3‑aye vote)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous 3‑aye vote)

Open Space Implementation Committee

The Open Space Implementation Committee is meeting to review trail signage and prioritize Chapterlands. The body will also consider a letter to the Select Board supporting a communication from Jim French regarding Chapterlands.

• Kiosk Trail Signs for Allenwood and Lynde Basins Trails
• Prioritization of Chapterlands
• Letter to the Select Board supporting Jim French's 'Chapterlands Letter'

The Open Space Implementation Committee accepted the agenda and the November 19 minutes by unanimous vote. No substantive actions or approvals were decided. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Accept agenda for Dec 17, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accept minutes of Nov 19, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Sterling Conservation Commission will hold continued public meetings to consider four Notice of Intent applications: a single‑family home on Maple St lot #7, a retroactive culvert replacement on Campground Rd, a solar field on Off Metropolitan Rd (Maps 151‑152, Lots 1‑2), and a storm‑water permit for work at 64 South Nelson Rd. The agenda also includes routine items such as meeting notices, minutes, old and new business, enforcement, certificates of compliance, and agents’ reports.

• Notice of Intent by Robert Julius for a single‑family home on Maple St lot #7
• Notice of Intent by Eco Tec for a retroactive culvert replacement on Campground Rd
• Notice of Intent by Paul Brodmerkle for a solar field on Off Metropolitan Rd, Maps 151‑152, Lots 1‑2
• Storm‑water permit application by Tyler Favreau for work at 64 South Nelson Rd
• Discussion of item 228 in New Business

The Conservation Commission approved the removal of three trees along the DCR Rail Trail with a unanimous vote. It also voted unanimously to continue four pending public hearings—Robert Julius's home construction, Eco Tec's culvert replacement, Paul Brodmerkle's solar field, and Tyler Favreau's storm‑water permit—to the January 20, 2026 meeting. The November 24, 2025 meeting minutes were approved, while the July minutes were deferred. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved removal of 3 trees at DCR Rail Trail (unanimous)
• Continued Robert Julius home construction NOI to Jan 20, 2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Eco Tec culvert replacement NOI to Jan 20, 2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Paul Brodmerkle solar field NOI to Jan 20, 2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Tyler Favreau stormwater permit hearing to Jan 20, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved November 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred approval of July meeting minutes (to next meeting)
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Recreation Department

The Recreation Commission will review items related to basketball, the Sweetheart Dance, tennis courts, and the community road race. Members will note that the budget request is due on January 9. The commission will also address the annual write‑up and set the date and time for the next meeting.

• Basketball program discussion
• Sweetheart Dance planning
• Tennis court matters
• Road Race – 2nd Wind event
• Budget request due Jan 9

Assessor's Office

The Sterling Assessor's Office board will meet on Dec 15, 2025 at 8:30 AM. The agenda covers routine items such as roll call, approval of the agenda, and signing payables, abatements, and warrants. New business includes approving the statutory exemption list, reviewing chapter applications, and considering the town budget. The meeting also includes an annual performance review and an RRG update.

• Approval of agenda
• Signing payables, abatements, and warrants
• Approve statutory exemption list
• Review chapter applications
• Approve budget

DPW Facility Committee

The Department of Public Works Facility Committee will meet to discuss charette guidelines and takeaways. The body will also establish a future meeting schedule.

• Discussion of Charette Guidelines
• Review of Charette takeaways and goals

Board of Health

The Sterling Board of Health will review and approve the December 4, 2025 meeting minutes, receive an agent report, and examine the town website. New business includes discussion of the FY27 Board of Health and Animal Inspector budget. Old business covers a communication policy update and a proposal for home and green burials regulation. The meeting also includes a public comment period.

• Review and approve minutes from the December 4, 2025 meeting
• Agent report presentation
• Website review
• Discussion of FY27 Board of Health and Animal Inspector budget
• Consideration of Home and Green Burials Regulation

The Board approved the December 4, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It then approved a 3% increase to the FY27 Board of Health expenses, a $232.50 rise, also unanimously. The Animal Inspector budget was approved by unanimous vote, and the draft home and green burial regulations were approved for revision and forwarding to the DEP and Town Counsel.

• Approved December 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 3% FY27 Board of Health expense increase ($232.50) (unanimous)
• Approved Animal Inspector budget (unanimous)
• Continued Communication Policy update to Dec 17 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved changes to home and green burial regulations and to send them to DEP and Town Counsel (unanimous)
• Discussed website issues; no formal action taken

Sterling Municipal Light Board

The board will discuss the 2026 Draft 2 Operations Budget and the 2026 Draft 1 Capital Plan. Members will also consider an office closure for December 26th.

• 2026 Draft 2 Operations Budget
• 2026 Draft 1 Capital Plan
• Proposed office closure on December 26th

Select Board

The Sterling Select Board will hold public hearings on a new off‑premises liquor license for KP Market at 110 Leominster Road, and on earth‑removal permits for 69 Leominster Road and 17 Stonecrest Way. After the hearings, the board will vote to approve all listed 2026 permits and licenses covering automobile dealers, common victuallers, vendors, amusements, entertainment, and alcohol‑on‑premise approvals. Additional agenda items include the Town Administrator report, business correspondence, and old‑business updates.

• Public hearing – issuance of new liquor license for KP Market (110 Leominster Road)
• Public hearing – earth removal permit for AF Amorello (69 Leominster Road)
• Public hearing – earth removal permit for The Grands LLC (Onyx Corporation) (17 Stonecrest Way)
• Board action – approval of all 2026 permits and licenses listed in the agenda
• Approval of 2026 common victualler permits (e.g., Sterling Village Pizza, Davis Farmland, The Black Sheep Tavern)

The board approved the 2026 business permits and licenses pending required paperwork and voted not to release the November 19 executive‑session minutes. It granted a continuance of the KP Market liquor‑license hearing until the January 14, 2026 meeting. The board also approved renewal permits for earth removal at AF Amorello (69 Leominster Road) and The Grands LLC (17 Stonecrest Way). All motions were recorded with vote tallies.

• Approved 2026 business permits and licenses (5‑0 ayes)
• Motion to not release November 19 executive‑session minutes (5‑0 ayes)
• Granted continuance of KP Market liquor‑license hearing to Jan 14 2026 (4‑1 ayes)
• Approved Earth Removal Permit renewal for AF Amorello (5‑0 ayes)
• Approved Earth Removal Permit renewal for The Grands LLC (5‑0 ayes)
• Closed Earth Removal hearing for The Grands LLC (4‑1 ayes)
• Approved minutes of November 12 & 19, 2025 (5‑0 ayes)

Board of Health

The Sterling Board of Health will meet from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm for a preparedness drill. The drill will be conducted in coordination with other town departments. No other agenda items or decisions are listed for this meeting.

• Preparedness drill scheduled for December 9, 2025, 8:00 am–12:00 pm, in conjunction with other town departments

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a special permit for Stephanie Duca Dog Training Services to operate a commercial kennel, animal hospital, and veterinarian’s office at 78 Worcester Road (Parcel ID 137-3) in the Commercial zoning district and Groundwater Protection District. The board will also discuss and possibly vote on multifamily housing bylaw proposals. Minutes from the November 4, 2025 meeting will be reviewed.

• Special permit for commercial kennel, animal hospital, veterinarian’s office at 78 Worcester Road (Parcel ID 137-3)
• Discussion and possible vote on multifamily housing bylaw proposals
• Review of minutes from the November 4, 2025 meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a Special Permit for Stephanie Duca Dog Training Services at 78 Worcester Road, adding conditions on waste removal, indoor classes, no overnight stays, a maximum of eight dogs per class, and lighting limits. The board also approved the November 4, 2025 meeting minutes. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Special Permit for 78 Worcester Road dog training (4-0)
• Approved November 4, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Recreation Department

The Sterling Recreation Commission meeting will consider items related to basketball, the Sweetheart Dance, tennis court matters, a budget request due January 9, an annual write‑up, a road race, and will set the date and time for the next meeting.

• Basketball
• Sweetheart Dance
• Tennis Court
• Budget Request Due Jan 9
• Road Race — 2"? Wind

Department of Public Works

The Sterling Department of Public Works will review its FY27 operating and capital budget, update residents on roadwork and drainage projects, and hear a presentation on the Oak Hill Cemetery wall. The board will also discuss the status of the new DPW facility and a proposed article for town meeting.

• FY27 Operating and Capital Budget
• Oak Hill Cemetery Wall presentation by Tighe & Bond
• New DPW Facility design refinements
• Route 140/62 Intersection design submission to MADOT
• Campground Road Culvert work

Trustees of the Conant Public Library

The Board of Trustees will meet to discuss actions regarding the library lift project and review the Director's goals for 2025 and 2026. The board will also prepare the trustee calendar for the upcoming year.

• Discussion of actions regarding the library lift project
• Review of 2025 Director's goals
• Discussion of 2026 Director's goals
• Preparation of the new trustee calendar

The trustees unanimously approved the November 10, 2025 meeting minutes. They decided to request an update on the library lift lobby project from the Town Administrator and Facilities Manager at the January meeting. Library Director Alex Grebinar announced that the hand‑dryer purchase has been tabled pending further septic issues. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved November 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to request lift project update at January meeting
• Director tabled hand‑dryer purchase (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Sterling Board of Health will review and approve the minutes from its November 19, 2025 meeting and hear an agent report. It will discuss a ZBA Special Permit application for 78 Worcester Road and address communication with the Lake Waushacum Association. An executive session is scheduled to consider complaints against a public officer or employee.

• Review and approve minutes from November 19, 2025
• Agent report (details not specified)
• Discussion on ZBA Special Permit Application 78 Worcester Road
• Communication with Lake Waushacum Association
• Executive session to discuss complaints against a public officer or employee

The Board approved the minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting. It voted to take no comment on the ZBA special permit application for 78 Worcester Road. The Board entered executive session to discuss complaints against a public officer, then adjourned.

• Approved November 19, 2025 minutes (motion carried, Menin abstained)
• Board took no comment on 78 Worcester Road ZBA special permit (motion carried, all in favor)
• Entered executive session to discuss complaints (motion made and seconded)
• Adjourned meeting (motion made and seconded)

Capital Budget Committee

The committee will hold a working meeting to review the FY26-FY30 Capital Plan and the FY27 process. Members will discuss FY27 requests and the impact of ARPA pull-in spending on funding targets.

• Review of FY26-FY30 Capital Plan
• Review of FY27 requests and capital schedule
• Consolidation of FY27-FY31 Draft Capital Plan
• Discussion on funding targets and ARPA pull-in spending

Animal Control Advisory Board (ACAB)

The Animal Control Advisory Board will review the ACO report and discuss specific properties at 31 Kendall Hill Rd and 26 Maple Street. The board is also scheduled to address a pet clean up bylaw and the spring rabies clinic.

• Review of 31 Kendall Hill Rd (Agra & Hegel)
• Discussion of concerns regarding 26 Maple Street
• Pet Clean Up Bylaw
• Spring Rabies Clinic planning

The Animal Control Advisory Board approved the September 15, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. Members noted that the Pet Cleanup Bylaw had passed at the Special Town Meeting and discussed possible dates for the spring rabies clinic, preferring March 28, 2026. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved September 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Sterling Municipal Light Board

The Sterling Municipal Light Board will consider several unfinished items, including the Kearsarge Energy solar and battery storage project, a cost‑of‑service rate study, and a website redesign. New business includes an office closure notice, a monthly report, a fiber update, a review of Q3 budget versus actuals, and the draft 2026 operations budget. The meeting also includes routine approvals of the agenda, past minutes, and a period for customer comments.

• Kearsarge Energy Solar and Battery Storage Project
• Cost of Service Rate Study
• Website Redesign
• Q3 Budget to Actual – John Kwasniewski
• 2026 Draft 1 Operations Budget

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will review and approve the minutes from the previous meeting, receive updates on FY‑2026 available funds, discuss a proposed convenience store and gas station on Rt 12 and I‑190 and its impact on Sterling businesses, and consider the FY‑2027 programs and budget. The committee will also plan a celebration for Sterling 2026 and set the date for the next meeting.

• Review and approve past meeting minutes
• Town Administrator update on EDC FY‑2026 available funds
• Discussion of new convenience store/gas station at Rt 12 & I‑190 and its impact on Sterling businesses
• Review of FY‑2027 programs and budget
• Planning celebration for Sterling 2026

Conservation Commission

The Sterling Conservation Commission will hold its regular meeting on November 24, 2025, to consider several public‑hearing items. Topics include a request to remove 4,600 sf of trees at 50 Pratt Junction Rd, a single‑family home proposal on Maple St lot #7, a retroactive culvert replacement on Campground Rd, a solar field project on Off Metropolitan Rd (maps 151, 152, lots 1, 1 and 2), and a storm‑water permit for work at 64 South Nelson Rd. The commission will also address routine agenda items such as notices, minutes, old business, new business, enforcement, and permits.

• Request for Determination by Sean Rafferty to remove 4,600 sf of trees at 50 Pratt Junction Rd
• Notice of Intent by Robert Julius for a single‑family home on Maple St lot #7
• Notice of Intent by Eco Tec for retroactive culvert replacement on Campground Rd
• Notice of Intent by Paul Brodmerkle for a solar field on Off Metropolitan Rd, maps 151‑152, lots 1, 1 and 2
• Storm‑water permit application by Tyler Favreau for work at 64 South Nelson Rd

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to issue a negative determination for the proposed removal of 4,600 square feet of trees at 50 Pratt Junction Road. It also voted to continue hearings for four separate projects—Maple Street home construction, Eco Tec culvert replacement, a solar field on Metropolitan Road, and a storm‑water permit at 64 South Nelson Road—until the December 16, 2025 meeting, with the South Nelson decision passing by a majority vote (Chair abstaining). The commission approved the October 27 meeting minutes with minor corrections and then adjourned.

• Approved negative determination for tree removal at 50 Pratt Junction Rd (unanimous)
• Continued Maple Street hearing to Dec 16 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Eco Tec culvert replacement hearing to Dec 16 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Metropolitan Rd solar field hearing to Dec 16 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued South Nelson Rd storm‑water permit hearing to Dec 16 2025 (majority, Chair abstained)
• Approved Oct 27 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• No enforcement actions taken
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Sterling Finance Committee will present a proposal for 2026 Annual Town Meeting zoning changes, discuss the FY25 free cash reconciliation, and review and approve the FY27 Annual Town Meeting calendar. The meeting will also recap Special Town Meeting results, plan a joint committee session, and provide an update on the meals tax.

• Presentation: Proposed 2026 ATM Zoning Changes (Stephen Wallace)
• Discussion: FY25 Free Cash Reconciliation
• Review and Approval: FY27 Annual Town Meeting (ATM) Calendar
• Recap: Special Town Meeting (STM) Results
• Update: Meals Tax

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider two Approval Not Required (ANR) plans for lot splits. Members will also hold a working session regarding residential zoning changes and debrief from a Special Town Meeting.

• ANR plan for Jim Haynes, Flanagan Hill Road (lot split on Sterling/Lancaster town line)
• ANR plan for Robert & Janice Snipes, 133 Rowley Hill Road (splitting backland for neighbor)
• Working session on residential zoning changes

The Planning Board voted 4‑0 to endorse Jim Haynes' plan to combine two Sterling lots on Flannagan Hill Road and split his Lancaster lot into three building lots. The Board also voted 4‑0 to endorse Bob Snipes' plan to sell a portion of his backland to a neighbor. The Board approved the October 2025 meeting minutes and agreed to present the revised multifamily/senior housing bylaw at a public forum on December 8, 2025.

• Endorsed Jim Haynes lot‑combination and split plan (4‑0)
• Endorsed Bob Snipes backland sale plan (4‑0)
• Approved October 2025 meeting minutes
• Agreed to present multifamily/senior housing bylaw at Dec 8 forum
• Set next Planning Board meeting for Dec 18, 2025

Assessor's Office

The Board of Assessors and the Select Board will meet jointly to conduct a tax classification hearing. The meeting is scheduled for November 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM in the Butterick Building, Room 205. No additional agenda items are listed.

• Tax classification hearing (joint Assessors and Select Board)

Board of Health

The Sterling Board of Health will review and approve the minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting and hear an agent report. The primary new business is a variance request for a local septic system upgrade at 163 Rowley Hill Road, seeking relief from state regulations on tank inlet/outlet separation and pervious soil depth. The board will also conduct a public comment session limited to three minutes per speaker.

• Review and approve minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting
• Agent report presentation
• Variance request for 163 Rowley Hill Road: reduction of 12‑inch tank inlet/outlet separation from the seasonal high groundwater table
• Variance request for 163 Rowley Hill Road: lack of 4‑foot pervious soil depth in the proposed S.A.S. area
• Public comment session rules (max 3 minutes per speaker, total 21 minutes)

The Board unanimously approved the variance request and the associated local upgrade for 163 Rowley Hill Road. Earlier, the Board also approved the October 16, 2025 minutes. Motions to open and close the hearing on the variance were carried, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened hearing on variance request for 163 Rowley Hill Road (motion carried)
• Closed hearing on variance request for 163 Rowley Hill Road (motion carried)
• Approved variance request and local upgrade approval for 163 Rowley Hill Road (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Open Space Implementation Committee

The Open Space Implementation Committee will review its FY 2026 budget. The committee will also consider a presentation on a Multi-Family and Senior Housing Bylaw, trail maintenance matters, and the Senior Center Hiking Club. Additional agenda items include approval of minutes from the October 22 meeting, prioritizing Chapterlands, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approval of Meeting Minutes from 22 October 2025
• Presentation on Multi-Family and Senior Housing Bylaw
• Discussion of trail maintenance
• Review of OSIC Budget for FY 2026
• Senior Center Hiking Club

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct a public hearing to determine the tax classification factors for residential, open space, commercial, industrial, and personal property for the Fiscal Year 2026 tax rate. The board will also consider a recommendation from the Wachusett Fund Committee.

• Public hearing on property tax classification for Fiscal Year 2026
• Wachusett Fund Committee Recommendation
• Executive session regarding collective bargaining strategy for the Dispatch Union

The board adopted a 1.000% shift factor and a residential factor of 1.000, maintaining a single tax rate for FY 2026. It approved a $25,400 purchase of ten replacement defibrillators for police vehicles from the Wachusett Fund. The board entered executive session to discuss collective‑bargaining strategy for the Dispatch Union and then adjourned the meeting.

• Adopted 1.000% shift factor and 1.000 residential factor, keeping a single tax rate (5‑0)
• Approved $25,400 purchase of ten police vehicle defibrillators from Wachusett Fund (5‑0)
• Entered Executive Session to discuss Dispatch Union collective‑bargaining strategy (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

DPW Facility Committee

The Sterling Department of Public Works Facility Committee will meet on November 17, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. The agenda includes a debrief of the recent Special Town Meeting, discussion of the upcoming ballot election, and updates from the DPW Superintendent, designer, and OPM. The committee will also set the future meeting schedule before adjourning.

• Debrief of Special Town Meeting
• Discuss upcoming ballot election
• DPW Superintendent update
• Designer update
• OPM update

The DPW Facility Committee accepted the October 16 and October 30 minutes with a 3‑0 vote. The committee noted that the schematic design is fully funded and directed that the remaining $250,000 be used for cost, energy, structural, hazmat, air‑quality and gas‑tank studies. A future meeting was set for Monday, December 15 at 4:00 PM.

• Accepted October 16 and October 30 minutes (3-0 vote)
• Allocated $250,000 for building assessments and studies (no vote recorded)
• Scheduled next committee meeting for Monday, Dec 15 at 4:00 PM (no vote recorded)
• Confirmed schematic design is fully paid (no vote recorded)
• Noted election canceled due to Town Meeting vote (no decision by committee)

Cultural Council

The Sterling Cultural Council will meet to review grant proposal applications. The body will also approve the October meeting minutes and receive the Treasurer's report.

• Review of grant proposal applications

The council approved the minutes from the October 27 meeting by unanimous consent. It reviewed and finalized the Massachusetts Cultural Council grant applications, with acceptance letters to be mailed next month. The next council meeting was scheduled for January 6, 2025 at 5 pm in room 205.

• Approved October 27 minutes (unanimous)
• Finalized MACC grant applications (acceptance letters next month)
• Scheduled next meeting for Jan 6, 2025 at 5 pm in room 205

Trustees of the Conant Public Library

The Conant Public Library Board of Trustees will meet on November 10, 2025. The agenda includes reviewing and approving the October 20, 2025 meeting minutes, reviewing FY27 capital projects and the FY27 budget, and approving the library’s annual report. The board will also receive reports from the director, finance, circulation, and youth services, and conduct a trustee self‑assessment. The meeting will end with any other business.

• Review/Approve meeting minutes (October 20, 2025)
• Review FY27 Capital Projects
• Review FY27 Budget
• Approve Annual Report
• Library Trustee Self-Assessment

The trustees approved the October 20, 2025 meeting minutes and the October 20, 2025 executive‑session minutes, each by unanimous vote. The board then moved to adjourn the November 10, 2025 meeting, also unanimously.

• Approved October 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 20, 2025 executive‑session minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

DPW Facility Committee

The DPW Facility Committee will review the recent Special Town Meeting, discuss the upcoming ballot election, and receive updates from the DPW superintendent, the town designer, and the Office of Public Management. The committee will also set the schedule for future meetings.

• Debrief of Special Town Meeting
• Discuss upcoming ballot election
• DPW Superintendent Update
• Designer Update
• OPM Update

The committee accepted the October 6 and October 7 minutes with a 3-0 vote. The Special Town Meeting was moved to Monday, November 10 at 6:30 PM in the Chocksett School Gym. The DPW Facility Committee set its next meeting for Monday, November 17 at 6:00 PM.

• Accepted October 6 and October 7 minutes (3-0 vote)
• Special Town Meeting moved to Monday, Nov 10 at 6:30 PM, Chocksett School Gym
• DPW Facility Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, Nov 17 at 6:00 PM

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a request for a front yard setback variance and discuss proposed zoning amendments for the Annual Town Meeting.

• Variance request for a covered porch at 4 Sunset Drive (Parcel ID 157-37)
• Review of proposed zoning amendments for Annual Town Meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance allowing Arielle Greenleaf to build a covered porch that extends eight feet into the front‑yard setback at 4 Sunset Drive (5‑0). The board also approved the minutes from the October 7, 2025 meeting (5‑0). The meeting was then adjourned (5‑0).

• Granted variance for front‑yard setback relief at 4 Sunset Drive (5-0)
• Approved October 7, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

DPW Facility Committee

The Sterling DPW Facility Committee will meet on Oct. 30, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. The agenda includes a roll call, an information session about DPW facilities, and adjournment. No items requiring a vote or decision are listed.

• DPW Facility Information Session

The committee met for a public information session where frequently asked questions were presented and audience questions were answered. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The meeting adjourned at approximately 10:30 am.

Recreation Department

The Recreation Commission will review the hiring process for staff, plan the Sweetheart Dance, consider new program offerings, address a board member vacancy, and discuss logistics for a road race. The meeting will also set the date and time for the next commission session.

• Hiring Process
• Sweetheart Dance planning
• New program proposals
• Filling board member vacancy
• Road Race planning

The Recreation Committee approved a $4,500 estimate for needed field repairs with a unanimous vote. The proposal to change the upcoming road race from a 10k to a shorter distance was tabled for the next meeting. The committee noted a board vacancy and will have the recreation director email the community about it.

• Approved $4,500 field repairs (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on revising road race distance
• Recreation director to email community about board vacancy
• Recreation director to send reminders for basketball play‑night volunteers

DPW Facility Committee

The Sterling Department of Public Works Facility Committee will take roll call, review minutes from the October 6 and October 16 meetings, receive updates from the DPW superintendent, designer, and OPM, discuss public education ahead of the Town Meeting, and set the schedule for future meetings. No formal decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Roll call and approval of minutes from Oct 6 and Oct 16
• DPW Superintendent update
• Designer update
• OPM (Office of Public Management) update
• Set future meeting schedule

Trustees of the Conant Public Library

The Board of Trustees will meet to update library behavior and internet use policies. The board will also discuss security camera regionalization and the exterior lift. A vote on a negotiated contract for the Library Director is scheduled.

• Update Behavior Policy
• Update Internet Use Policy
• Discussion of security camera regionalization
• Discussion of Trustee actions regarding the exterior lift
• Vote to approve negotiated contract for Library Director

The trustees unanimously approved the negotiated employment contract. They also unanimously adopted the amended Behavior Policy and Internet Policy, changing "responsible adult" to "responsible caregiver." Trustees decided to revisit the exterior lift project after the special town meeting resolves its funding. No other motions were passed.

• Approved negotiated employment contract (unanimous)
• Adopted amended Behavior Policy (unanimous)
• Adopted amended Internet Policy (unanimous)
• Decided to revisit exterior lift project after funding decision (no vote recorded)
• Entered executive session for contract negotiations (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review and approve the September 11, 2025 meeting minutes, hear several presentations—including emergency preparedness, proposed protective bylaw changes, and PFAS water testing—and consider a draft regulation on home and green burials. It will also receive a comment on a special permit for 4 Sunset Drive and review regionalization reports and policy revisions.

• Review and approve September 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Presentation on emergency preparedness by Jack Chandler
• Proposed protective bylaw changes presented by Town Planner Steve Wallace
• PFAS water testing presentation by Jim Starbard
• Discussion of Home Burials/Green Burials Draft Regulation

The Board of Health approved the revised September 11, 2025 minutes with all members in favor. It reviewed the ZBA special permit for 4 Sunset Drive, found no conflicts, and will advise the ZBA that the board has no comment on the permit. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved September 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• No comment on 4 Sunset Drive ZBA special permit (board found no conflicts)
• Motion to adjourn carried (unanimous)

DPW Facility Committee

The Department of Public Works Facility Committee will meet to review and approve an informational mailer. The committee will also discuss public education efforts ahead of the Town Meeting and receive updates from the DPW Superintendent, Designer, and OPM.

• Review and approval of informational mailer
• Discussion of public education for Town Meeting
• DPW Superintendent update
• Designer update
• OPM update

The DPW Facility Committee met on October 16, 2025. After reviewing a draft informational mailer, the committee voted 3-0 to have Mr. Mouradian and Mr. Morini revise and finalize it. The committee also scheduled a senior‑center informational session for October 30 and set the next meeting for October 27. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved revision and finalization of informational mailer (3-0)
• Scheduled senior center informational session for Oct 30
• Set next committee meeting for Oct 27 at 6:00 PM

Department of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will review water connection fees for Leo’s Way and budget reports. The meeting includes updates on water main replacements and the status of PFAS sampling results.

• Water Connection Fees - Leo’s Way
• November Special Town Meeting-Water Articles
• Route 140/62 Intersection 25% design submission to MADOT
• PFAS September sample results of 27.2 PPT
• Zoning amendment updates for Fall Town Meeting

The Sterling Department of Public Works board met on Oct 14, 2025 and reviewed status of multiple projects, including the new DPW facility, storm‑water regulations, Route 140/62 intersection design, roadwork, Main Street revitalization, cemetery studies, Swett Hill drainage, water system items, and generator replacement. No motions, votes, or approvals were recorded; the meeting consisted of informational updates and discussion of next steps.

Council on Aging

The Sterling Council on Aging will review meeting minutes, a treasurer's report, and a director's update. The body will also discuss a new strategic plan and fundraising for Liz Pape.

• Review and approve August 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review Treasurer's Report
• Review Director's Update
• Discuss long-term goals and new strategic plan
• Discuss fundraising event for Liz Pape

The board approved the Treasurer’s Report as presented. It also accepted the Director’s Report after a motion by Dave Cosgrove, seconded by Peter MacDonald, which passed unanimously. A motion to adjourn the meeting was approved at 4:01 p.m. No other motions were decided.

• Approved Treasurer’s Report (no vote tally recorded)
• Accepted Director’s Report (motion passed unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:01 p.m. (motion passed unanimously)
• Reviewed September 9, 2025 minutes (no vote recorded)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review special permit applications for a multi-family development and a vehicle sales business. The board will also discuss zoning proposals from the Town Planner.

• Special Permit for multi-family development at 121-125 Flanagan Hill Road (Lancaster Sterling, LLC)
• Special Permit for sale or rental of cars and trailers at 78 Worcester Road (Pratts Automotive)
• Discussion of Town Planner Zoning Proposals

The Zoning Board granted a leave to withdraw without prejudice for the 121‑125 Flanagan Hill Road applicant. It then approved a special permit for a multi‑family development at that address, imposing lighting limits, specific hours, and all DCR conditions. The board also approved the minutes from the August 12 and September 9, 2025 meetings.

• Granted leave to withdraw without prejudice for 121‑125 Flanagan Hill Road applicant (5‑0)
• Closed public portion of the hearing (4‑0)
• Granted special permit for multi‑family development at 121‑125 Flanagan Hill Road with lighting, hours, and DCR conditions (4‑0)
• Approved minutes of August 12, 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of September 9, 2025 (4‑0‑1)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct a continued public meeting regarding a retroactive culvert replacement and a new storm water permit application. The body will also discuss commission reorganization and introduce a new agent.

• Continued public meeting: Eco Tec retroactive culvert replacement on Campground Rd
• Public meeting: Tyler Favreau storm water permit for 64 South Nelson Rd
• Discussion on Commission Reorganization

The commission voted to make Matt Marro the new Chair and to have the Conservation Agent serve as Treasurer. Commissioners set the next meeting for October 27, 2025, and unanimously continued the Campground Road culvert notice and the 64 South Nelson Road storm‑water permit to that date. The September 16, 2025 minutes were approved with a minor amendment.

• Matt Marro appointed Chair (abstention by Marro)
• Conservation Agent designated Treasurer (unanimous)
• Next meeting scheduled for Oct 27, 2025 (unanimous)
• Campground Road culvert notice continued to Oct 27, 2025 (unanimous)
• 64 South Nelson Road storm‑water permit continued to Oct 27, 2025 (unanimous)
• September 16, 2025 minutes approved with amendment (abstention by Pavlowich)
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue a public meeting regarding a new solar farm off Metropolitan Road. Members will also hold a working session on residential zoning and review the Planning Department fee structure.

• Site plan review for South Meadow Solar LLC off Metropolitan Road (Tax Map 151, Lot 1 & Tax Map 152, Lots 1 & 2)
• Working session on residential zoning changes
• Review of Planning Department fee structure
• Selection of Planning Board Vice Chair

The board voted 4‑0 to approve the revised site plan for a ground‑mounted solar farm off Metropolitan Road. It also approved the August 28, 2025 meeting minutes. The board set a public hearing on its fee‑structure for the October 23 meeting and scheduled a hearing next month on the MBTA bylaw for the November 3 Special Town Meeting. A pending matter was postponed until Board Member Pruneau can attend the next meeting.

• Approved solar farm site plan (4‑0)
• Approved August 28, 2025 meeting minutes
• Scheduled public hearing on fee structure for Oct 23, 2025
• Scheduled hearing next month on MBTA bylaw for Nov 3 Special Town Meeting
• Postponed unspecified matter until Board Member Pruneau attends
• Set next Planning Board meeting for Oct 23, 2025

Select Board

The Select Board and DPW Facility Committee are meeting to address several action items. The board will consider polling hours and a ballot question for the November 4, 2025 Special Election.

• November 4, 2025 Special Election polling hours and ballot question
• Conservation Agent appointment
• Memorandum of Understanding with Wachusett Earthday Inc.
• Wachusett Regional School Committee vacancy
• DPW Facility Committee update

The Select Board approved the September 10 meeting minutes and appointed Sierra Harris as the town's Conservation Agent. It also approved the Memorandum of Understanding with Wachusett Earthday Inc., set a special election for November 20, 2025 with polling from noon to 7 p.m., and authorized a town‑wide Fall cleanup on November 8. The board agreed to advertise a school‑committee vacancy for two weeks and to make the appointment at the October 8 meeting, then adjourned.

• Approved September 10 meeting minutes (unanimous ayes)
• Appointed Sierra Harris as Conservation Agent (unanimous ayes)
• Approved MoU with Wachusett Earthday Inc. (unanimous ayes)
• Approved special election on Nov 20, 2025, polling 12 pm–7 pm (unanimous ayes)
• Approved Fall town‑wide Cleanup on Nov 8, 2025 (unanimous ayes)
• Agreed to advertise school‑committee vacancy for two weeks, appointment at Oct 8 meeting (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous ayes)

DPW Facility Committee

The Department of Public Works Facility Committee will hold a joint meeting with the Select Board. The agenda item is to discuss the DPW Facility and the warrant article for the upcoming Fall Special Town Meeting. No other items are listed.

• Joint discussion of DPW Facility with Select Board
• Review of Fall Special Town Meeting warrant article

The DPW Facility Committee met jointly with the Select Board on September 24, 2025. The committee reviewed a presentation on the DPW Facility project and answered questions from the finance and capital budget committees. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council will review survey results and discuss funding for several member-led initiatives. The body is also preparing for the October 16, 2025, grant application deadline.

• Discussion of 'Little House on the Prairie' idea
• Discussion of Open Mic Nights
• Discussion of Farm Crawl
• Discussion of 'Plant Your Own Wildflower Garden' project
• Recruitment of new members

The council approved a new member application and the minutes from the August 5 meeting. It appointed Marina Meehan as chair and Judy Doherty as treasurer. Funding requests of $100 each for a music program and an Open Mic night, and $300 for a Celebrate Sterling sponsorship, were all approved. The meeting was adjourned at 6 pm.

• Approved Dhivyaa Thamil Chevron’s application (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 5 meeting (unanimous)
• Appointed Marina Meehan as chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Judy Doherty as treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved $100 for “Music of the Prairies” program (unanimous)
• Approved up to $100 for October 4 Open Mic night (unanimous)
• Approved $300 Silver‑level sponsorship for Celebrate Sterling (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6 pm (unanimous)

DPW Facility Committee

The Sterling Department of Public Works Facility Committee will hold a public session to discuss a DPW facility tour, a recent Finance Committee meeting, an upcoming Select Board meeting, and plans for a Celebrate Sterling event. The committee will also receive updates from the DPW superintendent, designer, and OPM, and will set the schedule for future meetings.

• DPW Facility Tour Discussion
• Finance Committee Meeting Discussion
• Upcoming Select Board Meeting Discussion
• Celebrate Sterling Event Discussion
• DPW Superintendent Update

The DPW Facility Committee approved the September 8, 2025 minutes with a 5‑0 vote. The committee designated the Chair and Vice‑Chair to sign invoice warrant top sheets. It also scheduled the next meeting for Monday, October 6 at 6:00 PM. No other motions were voted on.

• Accepted September 8 minutes (5-0 vote)
• Designated Chair and Vice‑Chair to sign invoice warrant top sheets
• Scheduled next meeting for Monday, October 6 at 6:00 PM

DPW Facility Committee

The DPW Facility Committee reviewed tours of the Hudson, Holden, and Westford facilities and discussed the design of a possible new Sterling building. The committee also addressed the upcoming Finance Committee vote on a $2.2 million request for the project and an article for the Meeting House News.

• DPW Facility Committee tour of Hudson, Holden, and Westford facilities
• Discussion of a possible new Sterling DPW facility design
• Finance Committee to vote on $2.2 million project funding on October 16
• Article for Meeting House News with a $33 million price tag concern
• DPW to host a 'Celebrate Sterling' event this Saturday

The DPW Facility Committee met jointly with the finance and capital budget committees on September 18, 2025. Committee members heard a presentation on the DPW Facility project from the DPW Superintendent, the committee chair, the owners project manager, and the design engineer/architect. Finance and capital budget committee members asked numerous questions about the project and the upcoming November 3, 2025 special town meeting and ballot vote. The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:30 p.m. with no formal actions recorded.

Open Space Implementation Committee

The Open Space Implementation Committee will meet to discuss maintenance and projects for town open spaces. The agenda includes reviews of the Lynde Basins Trail and the Hedgerow Project.

• Trail maintenance on the Lynde Basins Trail
• MasstTrails grant proposal
• Sholan Park Picnic Area
• Hedgerow Project currently out for bid
• Eagle Scout Project

The committee unanimously accepted the agenda for the September 17, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved the minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Accepted agenda for September 17, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of August 20, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Sterling Conservation Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss old business, new agent hiring, and three public hearings regarding septic replacement, wetland restoration, and storm water permits.

• Public hearing for septic replacement on 280 Leominster Rd
• Public hearing for wetland restoration on 153 Chace Hill Rd
• Public hearing for storm water permit at 64 South Nelson Rd
• Discussion of new agent hiring
• Review of old business from warrant articles

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to decline pursuing acquisition of the 5.5‑acre Lot 5 under Chapter 61A. It also approved a negative determination for the septic replacement at 280 Leominster Road, continued several pending permits to the October 7 meeting, and adopted a Standard Order of Conditions for the wetland restoration at 153 Chace Hill Road. The June 10, 2025 minutes were accepted and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved negative determination for septic replacement at 280 Leominster Rd (unanimous)
• Continued Campground Rd culvert replacement Notice of Intent to Oct 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Issued Standard Order of Conditions for 153 Chace Hill Rd wetland restoration (unanimous)
• Continued storm‑water permit request for 64 South Nelson Rd to Oct 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Signed off negative determination for Newell Hill Rd culvert replacement (unanimous)
• Declined to pursue acquisition of 5.5 acres (Lot 5) under Chapter 61A (unanimous)
• Accepted June 10, 2025 meeting minutes with amendments (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Animal Control Advisory Board (ACAB)

The Sterling Animal Control Advisory Board will review and vote on the minutes from its May 14, 2025 meeting. Members will elect a new board officer and hear the Animal Control Officer’s report. The board will consider old business concerning 31 Kendall Hill Rd and new business regarding concerns at 26 Maple Street and a fall rabies clinic scheduled for October 18, 2025.

• Review, approve, and vote on May 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Election of a board officer
• Animal Control Officer (ACO) report
• Old business – 31 Kendall Hill Rd (Agra & Hegel)
• New business – concerns at 26 Maple Street and Fall Rabies Clinic (10/18/25)

The board unanimously approved the May 14, 2025 meeting minutes after minor corrections. Terry Sadler was elected Chair and Anne Marie Catalano Vice Chair, each by unanimous vote. The Fall Rabies Clinic was scheduled for October 18, 2025. No new business was considered.

• Approved May 14, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Terry Sadler as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Anne Marie Catalano as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Set Fall Rabies Clinic date for October 18, 2025 (no vote recorded)

DPW Facility Committee

The Department of Public Works Facility Committee will hold site visits to three DPW facilities. The tours are scheduled for Holden DPW at 8:00 a.m., Hudson DPW at 10:00 a.m., and Westford DPW at 12:00 p.m. No formal actions or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Facility tour of Holden DPW (18 Industrial Drive) at 8:00 a.m.
• Facility tour of Hudson DPW (1 Municipal Drive) at 10:00 a.m.
• Facility tour of Westford DPW (28 North Street) at 12:00 p.m.

The DPW Facility Committee toured the Town of Holden, Hudson, and Westford DPW facilities. After the tours, the committee set a future joint meeting with the Finance Committee for September 18, 2025. No other decisions or approvals were recorded.

Board of Health

The Sterling Board of Health will meet to appoint a new animal inspector and consider local upgrades for septic systems at 19 James Road and 20 Woodside Drive. The agenda also includes a discussion on home and green burials, West Nile Virus updates, and regionalization.

• Appointment of Tom Feller as Animal Inspector
• Local Upgrade Approval: 19 James Road (septic separation reduction)
• Local Upgrade Approval: 20 Woodside Drive (septic separation reduction)
• Discussion: Home Burials/Green Burials
• West Nile Virus - Update and Prevention

The Board appointed Tom Feller as Animal Inspector after a motion was carried unanimously. The minutes from the August 14, 2025 meeting were approved by unanimous vote. The Board also approved Local Upgrade Approvals for 19 James Road and 20 Woodside Drive, reducing required groundwater separations, each with unanimous support. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Appointed Tom Feller as Animal Inspector (unanimous)
• Approved August 14, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Local Upgrade Approval for 19 James Road (unanimous)
• Approved Local Upgrade Approval for 20 Woodside Drive (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on the 61A release off Maple Street and Chamberlain Road. It will also consider a library update, review a FY26‑FY28 transportation contract for the Council on Aging with the Montachusett Region Transportation Authority, and discuss the fire chief’s recommendation and the board’s meeting schedule. Additional items include the town administrator’s report and updates on committees, the master plan, and other business.

• Public hearing – 61A release off Maple Street & Chamberlain Road
• Library update
• Council on Aging Transportation Service FY26‑FY28 contract with Montachusett Region Transportation Authority
• Fire Chief recommendation
• Select Board meeting schedule

The Select Board voted unanimously to release the 61A restriction, allowing the sale of a 5.5‑acre parcel on Maple Street & Chamberlain Road for $345,000. The board also approved the transportation contract with MART for FY 26‑28, authorized pre‑employment and background screening for the fire chief hire, set the meeting schedule to the second and fourth Wednesdays, and approved a model kitchen trailer to park at One Park Street for the Celebrate Sterling event.

• Approved release of 61A restriction for 5.5‑acre property sale (5‑0)
• Approved MART transportation contract for FY 26‑28 (5‑0)
• Approved pre‑employment and background screening process (4‑1)
• Approved meeting schedule on second and fourth Wednesdays (5‑0)
• Approved model kitchen trailer parking at One Park Street for Celebrate Sterling (3‑2)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Sterling Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a variance for a Maple Street property and a special permit modification for a Worcester Road garage project. The meeting will also review previous minutes.

• Variance request for 20 Maple Street to modify front and side setbacks
• Special permit modification for 225 Worcester Road to build a garage with an accessory dwelling unit
• Review of August 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Next scheduled meeting: October 7, 2025

The board approved a variance allowing Michael DiVerdi to reduce the side setback at 20 Maple Street. It also approved a special permit for Steven Cadoret to demolish and rebuild a garage with an accessory dwelling unit at 225 Worcester Road. Both motions passed unanimously (4‑0). The meeting was then adjourned.

• Granted variance for 20 Maple Street (4-0)
• Granted special permit for 225 Worcester Road (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)
• Approved minutes on 10/7/2025 (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Sterling Council on Aging meeting on September 9, 2025 will review and vote on the August 12, 2025 meeting minutes, approve the Treasurer’s Report, and hear a FOSS liaison report. It will elect a new Chair of the Council on Aging and hold an open discussion of the Vice‑Chair position. The agenda also includes a possible change to the meeting time and an update on the landscape plan and pergola/tent for the senior‑center terrace.

• Review and vote on the minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting
• Approve the Treasurer’s Report
• Hear the FOSS liaison report
• Elect a new Chair of the Council on Aging
• Open discussion of the Vice‑Chair position

The board approved the August 12, 2025 meeting minutes and accepted the Director’s Report. Members elected Deb MacLennan as chair, placed the vice‑chair position on hold, and changed the regular meeting time to 2:15 pm on the second Thursday of each month. The Holiday Party was scheduled for December 19, and the meeting was adjourned at 1:40 pm.

• Approved August 12, 2025 minutes (passed)
• Accepted Director’s Report (passed)
• Elected Deb MacLennan as chair (passed)
• Vice Chair position placed on hold (passed)
• Changed meeting time to 2:15 pm on second Thursday of month (passed)
• Scheduled Holiday Party for December 19 (passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:40 pm (passed)

Trustees of the Conant Public Library

The Conant Public Library Board of Trustees will review meeting minutes, receive reports, and discuss capital projects, budget discussions, and a director evaluation for the next fiscal year.

• Review/Approve minutes from August 11, 2025
• Update Circulation Policy
• Discuss Capital Projects for next fiscal year
• Begin budget discussions for next fiscal year
• Discuss Director evaluation

The trustees approved the August 11, 2025 meeting minutes, with one abstention. They unanimously adopted the amended circulation policy that adds a one‑week waiting period for household members. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved August 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous, 1 abstention)
• Approved circulation policy amendment adding one‑week household waiting period (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board approved the Common Victuallers License application submitted by the Sterling Fire Fighters Association. The motion passed unanimously with all three members voting aye. Afterward, the board adjourned the meeting by a unanimous vote.

• Approved Common Victuallers License for Sterling Fire Fighters Association (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Planning Board

The Board postponed action on the Metropolitan Road solar farm until a secondary engineering review is received. It approved the minor site plan for 86 Leominster Road, recommended the town not exercise its right of first refusal on 85 Maple Street, and voted to add 315 Leominster Avenue to the MBTA overlay district, expanding it to 15 acres. The Board also approved the July 24, 2025 meeting minutes, reappointed Carl Corrinne as Chairman, and set the next meeting for September 25, 2025.

• Postponed solar farm decision pending Graves Engineering review (vote 4‑0 to continue meeting Sep 25)
• Approved Minor Site Plan for 86 Leominster Road (vote 4‑0)
• Recommended town not exercise right of first refusal on 85 Maple Street (vote 4‑0)
• Added 315 Leominster Avenue to MBTA overlay district, expanding district to 15 acres (vote 4‑0)
• Approved July 24, 2025 meeting minutes (vote 4‑0)
• Reappointed Carl Corrinne as Chairman (vote 4‑0)
• Set next meeting for September 25, 2025 at 6:30 pm (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:12 pm

Select Board

The Select Board will approve permits for the Sterling Fair, including vendor licenses and truck parking, and will appoint a member to the Sterling Fair Committee. The board will also discuss a Special Town Meeting date and review a driveway permit request.

• Sterling Fair Committee appointment
• Sterling Fair vendor permits (JVS Enterprises, Tupperware, etc.)
• Celebrate Sterling event truck parking request
• Driveway permit request: 4/6 Jewett Road
• Special Town Meeting date and warrant timeline

The Select Board unanimously accepted the minutes from the August 6 and August 13 meetings, including the executive session minutes. It approved the common victualler and vendor permits for the Sterling Fair and appointed Jake Pruneau to the Fair Committee. The board also accepted two PILOT agreements from Kearsarge Sterling LLC, approved an Entrance to Public Ways permit for 4/6 Jewett Road, and set the Special Town Meeting timeline for November 3 with the warrant posting schedule. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved acceptance of August 6 and August 13 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved acceptance of August 13 executive session minutes (5-0)
• Approved common victualler and vendor permits for the Sterling Fair (5-0)
• Appointed Jake Pruneau of 78 Meetinghouse Hill Rd to the Fair Committee (5-0)
• Accepted two PILOT agreements from Kearsarge Sterling LLC (5-0)
• Approved Entrance to Public Ways permit for 4/6 Jewett Road (5-0)
• Set Special Town Meeting date for November 3 and warrant posting schedule (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (5-0)

Department of Public Works

The Department of Public Works Facility Committee will meet to review updates from the designer and the Owner's Project Manager (OPM). The committee will also review minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting.

• Designer Update
• OPM Update
• Minutes of August 12th, 2025

The committee voted to accept the minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting; the motion passed unanimously with a 5-0 vote. The committee then voted to adjourn the meeting at 7:00 PM; that motion also passed unanimously with a 5-0 vote. No other actions were decided.

• Accepted August 12, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:00 PM (5-0)

Housing Authority

The Board of Commissioners will meet to approve June 2025 financials and the minutes from June 25, 2025. The board will discuss personnel changes, an open board seat, and the Sea Crest project.

• Approval of June 2025 financials
• Correction of Fenton contract dates
• EOHLC PHN 2025-7 Vacancy Initiative 2.0
• EOHLC PHN 2025-8 American Resolution 250th Anniversary Celebration Funding
• EOHLC PHN 2025-9 Annual Plan Update

Open Space Implementation Committee

The Open Space Implementation Committee approved the August 20 agenda and the July 16 meeting minutes, both by unanimous vote. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. No other formal actions were taken.

• Accepted agenda for August 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of July 16, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The commission voted unanimously to make a negative determination on the Newell Hill Road culvert replacement request. It also approved issuing a standard order of conditions with an added stormwater operation‑and‑maintenance plan requirement for the Swett Hill Road stormwater improvement project. The retroactive notice of intent for Campground Road, the septic‑system replacement on Leominster Road, and the 153 Chace Hill project were each continued to the September 16 meeting. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Negative determination for Newell Hill Rd culvert replacement (unanimous)
• Issued standard order of conditions with O&M plan condition for Swett Hill Rd stormwater improvements (unanimous)
• Continued Campground Rd retroactive notice of intent to Sept 16 meeting
• Continued Leominster Rd septic system replacement request to next meeting
• Continued 153 Chace Hill project hearing to Sept 16 meeting
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to discuss a possible Sterling Nuisance Regulation and the board's Comprehensive Policy and Procedures. The board will also discuss two Zoning Board of Appeals requests.

• Discussion of Possible Sterling Nuisance Regulation
• Discussion on BOH Comprehensive Policy and Procedures
• ZBA Special Permit request for 225 Worcester Road
• ZBA Variance request for 20 Maple Street

The Board unanimously approved the revised minutes from the July 10, 2025 meeting after a minor change. It decided not to pursue a new nuisance regulation at this time. The Board took no comment on the special‑permit request for 225 Worcester Road and on the variance request for 20 Maple Street. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved revised July 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Board will not go forward with a nuisance regulation (decision made)
• No comment on special‑permit request for 225 Worcester Road
• No comment on variance request for 20 Maple Street
• Motion to adjourn carried (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to ratify the Police Lieutenant contract. The board will also enter an executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding the Onyx Sterling Pit.

• Police Lieutenant Contract Ratification
• Executive session regarding Onyx Sterling Pit litigation strategy

The Select Board voted to ratify the Police Lieutenant contract, with all five members voting aye. The board also voted to enter an executive session to discuss litigation strategy for the Onyx Sterling Pit, and then adjourned the meeting. All votes were unanimous.

• Ratified Police Lieutenant contract (5-0)
• Entered executive session on Onyx Sterling Pit litigation (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on a multi-family development project and a modification to an existing permit. The board will also hear an administrative appeal regarding a secondary structure.

• Special Permit for multi-family development at 121-125 Flanagan Hill Road
• Special Permit Modification for utility trailers at 141-149 Greenland Road
• Administrative Appeal regarding a secondary structure at 294 Leominster Road

The board voted 5-0 to continue the special permit hearing for the 121‑125 Flanagan Hill Road multifamily project to October 7, 2025. It approved the special permit modification for 141‑149 Greenland Road, allowing the replacement of mobile restrooms with utility trailers, by a 5‑0 vote. The board reversed the Building Commissioner’s determination and granted a grandfathering exception for the secondary structure at 294 Leominster Road, also 5‑0. Additionally, the board approved the July 8, 2025 minutes and adjourned the meeting, each by unanimous vote.

• Continue hearing for 121‑125 Flanagan Hill Rd special permit (to Oct 7 2025) – approved 5‑0
• Approve special permit modification for 141‑149 Greenland Rd – approved 5‑0
• Reverse Building Commissioner’s decision, allow secondary structure at 294 Leominster Rd – approved 5‑0
• Approve July 8 2025 minutes – approved 5‑0
• Adjourn meeting – approved 5‑0

Fair Committee

The agenda for the Sterling Fair Committee on August 11, 2025, is incomplete and contains formatting errors, making it impossible to determine the specific business to be conducted.

• Meeting date listed as VV 2S nme
• Executive session times missing
• Town of Sterling location listed

Select Board

The board unanimously approved the minutes from July 16, 2025, and the executive session minutes. It appointed Tyler Riel as Recreation Director, approved the Barefoot Half Marathon, and appointed a slate of election workers. The board also approved fair hold‑harmless agreements with three contractors. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved July 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 16, 2025 executive session minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Tyler Riel as Recreation Director (unanimous)
• Approved Barefoot Half Marathon application (unanimous)
• Appointed listed election workers (unanimous)
• Approved fair hold‑harmless agreements with three contractors (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The council approved the minutes from the June 3, 2025 meeting. Members voted 4‑2 to adopt direct grants rather than reimbursements for the Mass Cultural Council. They also voted 5‑1 to hold future meetings at 5 p.m. and set the next meeting for September 22, 2025 at 5 p.m. The council reaffirmed continuation of eight priority initiatives, including youth programs and farm and agriculture projects.

• Approved minutes of June 3, 2025 meeting
• Adopted direct grants for Mass Cultural Council (4‑2 vote)
• Voted 5‑1 to hold meetings at 5 p.m. going forward
• Set September 22, 2025 meeting at 5:00 p.m.
• Continued eight priority initiatives (youth programs, local applicants, climate science, family activities, inclusion/diversity, farm and agriculture, hands‑on experiences, democracy and history)

Economic Development Committee

The committee unanimously approved three actions: creating a “Doing Business in Sterling” website with the Chamber of Commerce, funding Lex Thomas for up to eight hours of preliminary work on the project at $55 per hour, and providing up to $6,000 for communications for Celebrate Sterling 2025. The meeting also approved the minutes from June 23, 2025.

• Approved motion for Steve Wallace to proceed with the Chamber of Commerce‑Doing Business in Sterling website (unanimously approved)
• Approved funding for Lex Thomas to implement the preliminary phase of “Doing Business in Sterling” up to eight hours at $55 per hour (unanimously approved)
• Approved funding for Lex Thomas communications for “Celebrate Sterling 2025” not to exceed $6,000 (unanimously approved)
• Approved the meeting minutes of 6/23/25 (unanimously approved)

Department of Public Works

The committee met to outline roles, discuss the project schedule, current and future funding, and the need for a smaller focus group and public communication. After the discussion, a motion to adjourn the meeting at 10:15 AM was made and adopted. No other actions were decided.

• Adjourned meeting at 10:15 AM (motion adopted)

Planning Board

The Board voted 4‑0 to approve the revised site plan for 21‑23 Laurelwood Road with conditions. It also approved the meeting minutes for May 22 and June 26, 2025. The Board adjourned and voted 4‑0 to continue the meeting on August 28, 2025 for a site walk and regular session. The residential zoning changes discussion was postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved 21‑23 Laurelwood Road site plan with conditions (4‑0)
• Approved May 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved June 26, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned to continue meeting on Aug 28, 2025 (4‑0)
• Postponed residential zoning changes discussion to next meeting

Department of Public Works

The committee voted to authorize Bill Cadwell to negotiate with Vertex to serve as the outside project manager for the DPW project. The motion was moved by David Smith, seconded by Blaine Bershad, and passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken during the meeting.

• Authorized Bill Cadwell to negotiate with Vertex as OPM (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Open Space Implementation Committee

The Open Space Implementation Committee unanimously approved the agenda for July 16, 2025 and accepted the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting. Members reported no progress on Lynde Basin Trail maintenance, a pending Mass Trails grant, and plans for Sholan Park picnic area and hedgerow construction, but no approvals were made. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:29 pm.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The board approved the June 18, 2025 meeting minutes and authorized the FY25 year‑end financial transfers. It reappointed Mike Padula and Joseph King to the Finance Committee and Joseph King to the Capital Budget Committee. New members Kevin Beaupre, Marina Meehan and Linda Woodland were appointed to the Finance and Capital Budget Committees. All motions passed, with votes ranging from unanimous to a 4‑2 majority.

• Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Reappointed Mike Padula to Finance Committee (5‑0)
• Reappointed Joseph King to Finance Committee (4‑2)
• Reappointed Joseph King to Capital Budget Committee (4‑2)
• Appointed Kevin Beaupre to Finance Committee (5‑0)
• Appointed Marina Meehan to Capital Budget Committee (5‑0)
• Appointed Linda Woodland to Capital Budget Committee (5‑0)
• Approved FY25 year‑end transfers (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The commission voted unanimously to issue an amended Order of Conditions for the Route 110 stormwater drainage improvements near Wachusett Reservoir. They also unanimously approved a motion to continue the Campground Road culvert replacement NOI to the October 7, 2025 meeting. Approval of the meeting minutes was tabled to the next meeting because commissioners lacked time to review the draft.

• Approved amended Order of Conditions for Route 110 stormwater improvements (unanimous)
• Continued Campground Road culvert replacement NOI to Oct 7, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of meeting minutes to next meeting (no vote taken)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Trustees of the Conant Public Library

The trustees unanimously approved the June 9, 2025 meeting minutes. They agreed to use last year’s evaluation rubric and to send narrative responses to Trustee Sayut by August 1. The board decided that Director Grebinar’s 2026 goals will not be part of the evaluation and that the director’s contract will be discussed in executive session by the October meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved June 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to use last year’s evaluation rubric for Director Grebinar (responses due Aug 1)
• Decided Director’s 2026 goals will not be part of the evaluation
• Planned to discuss Director’s contract in executive session by October meeting
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Board of Health

The Board unanimously approved the revised minutes from the June 12, 2025 meeting. It also approved a local upgrade permitting a reduced groundwater separation at 41 Tanglewood Road. The Board noted that Sterling does not participate in state mosquito spraying and that a PFAS letter is ready for signatures. The meeting was adjourned at 7:18 PM.

• Approved revised June 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved local upgrade for 41 Tanglewood Road (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Department of Public Works

The committee approved the May 22, 2025 minutes with a 3‑0 vote (Chandler abstained). They identified Vertex and CHA as the top two proposals and assigned Mr. Mouradian to schedule 30‑minute interviews for the next meeting. A site walk with Weston & Sampson representatives was reported, and future agenda items include selecting an Owner's Project Manager and reviewing the project. The meeting was adjourned at 6:20 PM.

• Accepted May 22, 2025 minutes (3-0, Chandler abstained)
• Scheduled interviews with Vertex and CHA (planned by Mr. Mouradian)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:20 PM (motion passed)
• Future agenda set to vote on Owner's Project Manager and review process

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved the special permit for a contractor’s yard at 21‑23 Laurelwood Road with conditions, voting 5‑0. The board also voted to continue the public hearing on the proposed multifamily development until August 12, 2025, also 5‑0. Minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting were approved, and the meeting was adjourned, each with unanimous 5‑0 votes.

• Approved contractor’s yard special permit at 21‑23 Laurelwood Road (5-0)
• Continued public hearing on 121‑125 Flanagan Hill Road multifamily development to Aug 12, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of June 10, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (5-0)

Department of Public Works

The Department of Public Works accepted the June 10, 2025 meeting minutes. The board signed the MDAR Right of Way PFAS letter. A memorandum of understanding between the SMLD and DPW was approved. New cemetery rules and regulations were adopted.

• Accepted June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Board signed MDAR Right of Way PFAS letter (3-0)
• Approved memorandum of understanding with SMLD (3-0)
• Adopted new cemetery rules and regulations (3-0)

Assessor's Office

The Sterling Board of Assessors unanimously approved Don Murray as Board Chairman. The meeting agenda and the minutes from the May 5, 2025 meeting were also approved. The board then adjourned the meeting at 9:03 a.m.

• Approved Don Murray as Board Chairman (unanimous)
• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 5 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:03 a.m. (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the May 15, 2025 meeting. Members voted to adopt a monthly meeting calendar on the third Thursday of each month at 5 p.m. They also approved stand‑and‑present meetings scheduled for January 29 and February 5, 2026. All votes were recorded as in favor.

• Approved May 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted monthly meeting calendar, third Thursday each month at 5 p.m. (all in favor)
• Approved stand‑and‑present meetings on 1/29/26 and 2/5/26 (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Board unanimously endorsed ANR plans for a lot line adjustment at #9 & #11 Princeton Road and for a new building lot at #159 North Row Road. It also unanimously adopted new Site Plan Regulations. The Board voted to continue the meeting to July 24, 2025, and appointed Eric Newman and Mike Temple as delegates to regional planning and transportation committees.

• Endorsed ANR plan for lot line adjustment at #9 & #11 Princeton Road (unanimous)
• Endorsed ANR plan for new building lot at #159 North Row Road (unanimous)
• Adopted new Site Plan Regulations (unanimous)
• Continued meeting to July 24, 2025 (4‑0 unanimous)
• Appointed Eric Newman as Planning Board delegate to Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (agreed)
• Appointed Mike Temple as Planning Board delegate to Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (agreed)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee approved the minutes from the May 19, 2025 meeting and a $375 invoice for Chamber of Commerce dues. The committee also tabled the agenda item concerning a new meeting time and the proposed Gateway Economic District. No vote tallies were recorded for these actions.

• Approved meeting minutes of 5/19/2025
• Approved $375 Chamber of Commerce dues invoice
• Tabled new meeting time and proposed Gateway Economic District

Open Space Implementation Committee

The Open Space Implementation Committee unanimously accepted the agenda for June 18, 2025. It also unanimously accepted the minutes from the May 14, 2025 meeting. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Board approved the June 4 minutes, moved forward on the Planning Board’s option #3 for the multi‑family overlay district, and co‑signed a letter to the Mass Dept. of Agricultural Resources requesting removal of PFAS‑containing herbicides. It reappointed most volunteers, tabled Capital and Finance Committee appointments, scheduled summer meetings for July 16 and August 27, and awarded a lifetime beach/parking pass to the retiring senior executive assistant.

• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Moved forward on Planning Board option #3 for multi‑family overlay district (all in favor)
• Co‑signed PFAS herbicide removal letter to MDAR (all in favor)
• Reappointed volunteers except Finance and Capital Committee members (all in favor)
• Tabled Capital and Finance Committee appointments (no vote recorded)
• Set summer meeting dates for July 16 and August 27 (all in favor)
• Awarded lifetime beach/parking pass to retiring senior executive assistant (all in favor)

Board of Health

The Board approved the minutes from the May 29, 2025 meeting. It re‑appointed all listed health‑board employees. Members voted unanimously to have Chairman Lane write a letter to the Planning Board asking that the 6‑foot seasonal groundwater offset provision be removed from the town’s zoning bylaws. The Board also accepted the body‑art licensing fees and approved posting an article by Member Menin on the town website.

• Approved May 29, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Re‑appointed health agents, inspectors and staff (Hassett aye, Lane aye, Menin abstained)
• Approved Chairman Lane to write letter to Planning Board to remove 6‑foot groundwater offset bylaw (all members in favor)
• Accepted body‑art licensing fees (unanimous vote)
• Approved posting of Member Menin’s article on town website and submission to Meetinghouse News (staff to handle)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board rejected the Senior Center's request to modify its special permit for an electronic sign (vote 1‑3). It postponed the contractor’s yard special permit and driveway variance at 21‑23 Laurelwood Road to July 8, 2025 (vote 5‑0). The board approved a finding that the protected‑use ADU at 2 Pineview Road is not substantially more detrimental to the neighborhood (vote 5‑0). Minutes from the May 13, 2025 meeting were also approved.

• Denied Special Permit Modification for electronic sign at 36 Muddy Pond Road (1‑3)
• Continued hearings for 21‑23 Laurelwood Road contractor’s yard and variance to July 8, 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved finding that ADU at 2 Pineview Road is not substantially more detrimental (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of May 13, 2025 (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Conservation Commission

The commission voted to issue a Standard Order of Conditions for the New England Power A1/B2 maintenance project. It also adopted an enforcement order that obligates CSX to supply PFAS information for its herbicide treatment by July 15, after initially moving to rescind the related RDA. Additional actions included approving a third‑party evaluation of the 64 South Nelson Road storm‑water issue, continuing the Laurelwood Road hearing to July 15, and unanimously accepting the April and May meeting minutes.

• Approved Standard Order of Conditions for New England Power A1/B2 project (unanimous)
• Issued enforcement order requiring CSX to provide PFAS information by July 15 (unanimous)
• Approved third‑party evaluation of 64 South Nelson Road storm‑water concerns (unanimous)
• Continued 21‑23 Laurelwood Rd hearing to July 15 (unanimous)
• Accepted April 2025 meeting minutes with amendments (unanimous)
• Accepted May 2025 meeting minutes with amendments (unanimous)

Department of Public Works

The board approved the minutes from April 8, May 13 and June 4, 2025 (3‑0). It postponed voting on new cemetery rules, the placement of the first two cemetery structures, and the water‑meter replacement issue for non‑responsive customers. The board authorized a contract with Tighe & Bond for a cemetery wall evaluation and confirmed the DPW office will be closed on June 19 and June 20.

• Approved minutes of April 8, May 13 and June 4, 2025 (3-0)
• Postponed vote on new cemetery rules and regulations to next DPW meeting
• Postponed placement of first two cemetery structures until foundations are in
• Decided to revisit water‑meter replacement for non‑responsive customers later
• Authorized contract with Tighe & Bond for cemetery wall evaluation
• Closed DPW office on Thursday June 19 (Juneteenth) and Friday June 20

Trustees of the Conant Public Library

The trustees approved the May 19, 2025 meeting minutes. They unanimously appointed Amanda Sayut as secretary and Sara Petullo as chair of the Conant Public Library Board of Trustees. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous, two abstentions)
• Appointed Amanda Sayut as Secretary (unanimous)
• Appointed Sara Petullo as Chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. They appointed Katherine Chandler to the Council on Aging Committee, with a term ending June 30, 2028. The town awarded $700 scholarships to Charlotte Heinrich, Jordan D’Amelio, and Rohan Paquette. The board voted to close municipal offices on Friday, June 20, 2025, the day after Juneteenth, without requiring employees to use personal time.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Appointed Katherine Chandler to the Council on Aging Committee (motion carried)
• Awarded $700 scholarships to Charlotte Heinrich, Jordan D’Amelio, and Rohan Paquette
• Closed municipal offices on June 20, 2025 (motion carried)

Department of Public Works

The Department of Public Works Board held a joint meeting with the Select Board on June 4, 2025. The only action recorded was a motion to adjourn, which was carried. No substantive policy or budget decisions were made.

• Adjourned the meeting (DPW Board only)

Cultural Council

The council approved the minutes from the April 29 meeting. It also approved an additional $237.47 for the composting program at Houghton, contingent on receipt documentation by June 15. No other formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved minutes of April 29 meeting
• Approved additional $237.47 for Houghton composting program (pending receipts)

Board of Health

The Board approved the minutes from the April 24, 2025 meeting. Members voted unanimously to keep Richard Lane as Chairman and to confirm Gail Hassett as Vice‑Chair. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved April 24, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Re‑elected Richard Lane as Chairman (unanimous)
• Confirmed Gail Hassett as Vice‑Chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Fair Committee

The Fair Committee approved the previous meeting's minutes with an amendment. A motion to pursue adding a Beer Garden, including gathering cost and profit information, passed with 6 yeas, 4 nays and 2 abstentions. The committee tentatively scheduled beekeeping and backyard‑chicken presentations and set a maintenance day for Saturday, June 21 at 9 AM (rain date June 27). Additional safety and insurance items were discussed.

• Approved minutes from the last meeting with amendment (no vote tally recorded)
• Approved motion to pursue addition of a Beer Garden (6 yeas, 4 nays, 2 abstained)
• Tentatively scheduled Backyard Chicken presentations for Saturday 12 PM and 5:30 PM
• Tentatively scheduled Beekeeping presentation for Sunday 12 PM
• Scheduled maintenance day for Saturday, June 21 at 9 AM with rain date June 27

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted unanimously (3‑0) to continue the meeting to June 26, 2025. It also voted unanimously (3‑0) to recommend MBTA overlay Option #3 to the Select Board, citing proximity to the sewer line, nearby housing, and transit considerations. The Board set its next meeting for June 26, 2025 at 6:30 pm. The March 13, 2025 minutes were not approved because a board member was absent.

• Voted unanimously (3‑0) to continue meeting to June 26, 2025
• Voted unanimously (3‑0) to recommend MBTA overlay Option #3 to Select Board
• Set next meeting date for June 26, 2025 at 6:30 pm
• March 13, 2025 minutes not approved due to member absence

Department of Public Works

The committee accepted the April 10 minutes (4‑0). Town Meeting voters approved funding for the new DPW facility by a 223‑111 margin, while a separate ballot measure failed 320‑432. The Finance Committee resolved to recommend financing the $500,000 over the longest term as a debt exclusion. The next DPW Facility Committee meeting was scheduled for June 30 at 6:00 PM.

• Accepted April 10 minutes (4‑0)
• Approved DPW facility funding (223‑111)
• Ballot measure on funding failed (320‑432)
• Finance Committee recommended longest‑term financing for $500,000
• Scheduled next meeting for June 30, 6:00 PM
• Motion to adjourn passed

Select Board

The Select Board approved the minutes from the May 7 meeting and confirmed the leadership positions of Chair, Vice‑Chair and Clerk. It accepted Verizon’s donation of a cell‑on‑wheels site for the Sterling Fair at no cost to the town. The board also ratified amendments to the police contract and the dispatchers’ contract, appointed an MRPC alternate, and nominated Leah Whiteman as the municipal representative for school negotiations.

• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried, two abstentions)
• Approved May 7, 2025 executive minutes (motion carried, two abstentions)
• Accepted Verizon cell‑on‑wheels donation for Sterling Fair (all in favor)
• Ratified two‑year police contract amendments (all in favor)
• Ratified dispatchers contract amendments (all in favor)
• Appointed Chair Newman as MRPC alternate (all in favor)
• Nominated Leah Whiteman as municipal representative for school negotiations (all in favor)
• Confirmed Chair Newman, Vice‑Chair David Smith, and Clerk Maureen Cranson (all in favor)

Trustees of the Conant Public Library

The trustees voted to postpone the board reorganization until the next scheduled meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:21 PM. Motions on the April 14 minutes and the Material Circulation Policy amendment were not resolved and will be addressed later.

• Postponed board reorganization (decision pending future meeting)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (motion carried unanimously)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the May 5 meeting unanimously. It voted to recommend rolling $500,000 into future borrowing for the DPW facility for a 30‑year term. All nominated officers were elected by acclamation, and a fund transfer authorization for the Finance Committee chair and vice‑chair was approved unanimously.

• Approved meeting minutes of 5/5/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to roll $500,000 into future borrowing for DPW facility for 30 years (unanimous)
• Elected Joe King as Finance Committee Chair by acclamation
• Elected John Kilcoyne as Finance Committee Chair by acclamation
• Elected Lynne Sheppard as Capital Committee Chair by acclamation
• Elected Mark Gauthier as Capital Committee Vice Chair by acclamation
• Approved fund transfer authorization for Finance Committee Chair/Vice Chair through fiscal year (unanimous)

Fair Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting, adding an amendment that the MOTT Grant has not yet been submitted because the grant window has not opened. No other substantive actions were voted on; the committee discussed revenue ideas, prize‑money adjustments, and upcoming event logistics, but deferred those decisions to future meetings.

• Approved previous meeting minutes with amendment noting MOTT Grant pending

Animal Control Advisory Board (ACAB)

The Animal Control Advisory Board voted unanimously to approve the minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting. Members discussed a nuisance‑dog case involving a dog at 31 Kendall Hill Road and agreed to draft a letter to the owner outlining recommended actions. The board then moved to adjourn, which passed unanimously.

• Approved March 18, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to draft and send a letter to the owner of the nuisance dog at 31 Kendall Hill Road
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Open Space Implementation Committee

The Open Space Implementation Committee accepted the May 14 agenda and the April 16 minutes, each by unanimous vote. The committee noted that the OSIC budget for 2026 has been increased to $5,000 and that a by‑law amending commercial zoning to create a Gateway Enterprise District was passed. The meeting was adjourned unanimously and the next meeting was set for June 18.

• Accept agenda for May 14, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accept minutes of April 16, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)
• OSIC 2026 budget increased to $5,000 (no vote recorded)
• By‑law amending commercial zoning to create Gateway Enterprise District passed (no vote recorded)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board granted a leave to withdraw an application without prejudice and approved the March 25, 2025 minutes. It approved the new ADU protected‑use form and elected officers (Fox as chairman, Curtin as vice‑chair, Baldarelli as clerk). The board also continued the senior‑center sign hearing to June 10 and approved a special permit to enlarge the storage building at 4 Peter Drive.

• Granted leave to withdraw without prejudice – 5-0
• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes – 5-0
• Approved ADU protected‑use form – 5-0
• Elected officers (Fox chairman, Curtin vice‑chair, Baldarelli clerk) – 5-0
• Continued senior‑center sign hearing to June 10, 2025 – 4-0
• Granted special permit to expand storage building at 4 Peter Drive – 5-0
• Adjourned meeting – 5-0

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the proposed motor‑vehicle service station and convenience store at 110 Leominster Road, voting unanimously. It also issued a negative determination for the wetland on Redstone Hill Road, also unanimously. The commission granted a continuance for the New England Power A1/B2 maintenance project and signed notices of intent for the Redemption Rock Road septic upgrade and CSX right‑of‑way vegetation management. Motions were passed to place the dam failure at 228 Leominster Road and a recent flooding incident on the Janowicz property on the agenda for the June 10 meeting.

• Signed Notice of Intent for 246 Redemption Rock Road septic upgrade
• Signed Right‑of‑Way Development Agreement for CSX vegetation management
• Declared negative determination for Redstone Hill Road wetland (unanimous)
• Approved 110 Leominster Road service station and convenience store (unanimous)
• Granted continuance of New England Power A1/B2 project NOi to next meeting
• Added dam failure at 228 Leominster Road to June 10 agenda (unanimous)
• Added Janowicz property flooding issue to June 10 agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Department of Public Works

The Board reappointed Blaine Bershad as Chairman for another term. It authorized the Casella trash and recycling contract covering June 2025‑June 2028. The Board accepted the proposed water rates effective July 1, 2025 and closed the public hearing. Andrew Wickremerante was hired as a driver/laborer starting May 27.

• Reappointed Chairman Blaine Bershad (3-0)
• Authorized Casella trash & recycling contract (3-0)
• Closed water‑rates public hearing (3-0)
• Accepted proposed water rates (3-0)
• Hired Andrew Wickremerante as Driver/Laborer, start May 27 (3-0)

Select Board

The Board approved a phased increase in the town’s demand fees, raising them from $15 to $20 now and adding $5 each year until they reach $30 in FY28. They also signed an agreement to use Sterling Airport for the 2025 Town Fair, pending town insurance. Additional actions included approving an 8th‑grade field day at Sholan Park, directing follow‑up on security‑camera requests at Griffin Road athletic complex, appointing Chair Newman to the Scholarship Committee, and approving a driveway permit at 184 Justice Hill Road Cut‑off with a storm‑drain requirement.

• Approved demand fee increase to $20 now, then $5 annually to $30 by FY28 (motion carried)
• Signed agreement to use Sterling Airport for 2025 Town Fair, contingent on town insurance (motion carried)
• Approved Chocksett 8th‑grade field day at Sholan Park on June 10 (rain date June 11) (motion carried)
• Directed follow‑up with police and Recreation Department on vandalism at Griffin Road athletic complex (motion carried)
• Appointed Chair Newman to the Scholarship Committee (motion carried)
• Approved Entrance to Public Ways permit for driveway at 184 Justice Hill Road Cut‑off, condition of 12‑inch storm pipe (motion carried)

Assessor's Office

The Sterling Board of Assessors approved the meeting agenda. They then approved the statutory exemption list after a motion and unanimous vote. The meeting was adjourned at 10:02 am with all members in favor.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved statutory exemption list (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:02 am (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance and Capital Committees approved the minutes from the April 17, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. No other financial or budgetary items were voted on. The meeting adjourned at 11:30 pm.

• Approved minutes of April 17, 2025 (unanimous)

Fair Committee

The committee approved the same golf‑cart arrangement as last year and set animal exhibition hours to stay until 5 PM each night. New fair software was adopted and a ban on waterfowl and other birds was confirmed. Entertainment bookings—including Dale Perkins, a magician, and music acts—were finalized, and witches were invited back for Friday and Saturday performances.

• Confirmed golf carts at same price, set‑up and schedule as last year
• Set animal exhibition to stay until 5 PM each night
• Adopted new fair software with reduced price and improved usability
• Implemented ban on waterfowl and other birds at the fair this year
• Invited witches to perform on Friday and Saturday
• Confirmed non‑music entertainment: Dale Perkins and a magician
• Confirmed music entertainment for the fair
• Discussed allocating funds for a barnyard show (no decision made)

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council approved the minutes from the March 25 meeting. They reviewed recent programs and upcoming events. The council decided to create a Facebook page with all members as administrators and to set up a website at a cost of $192 for the year. The next meeting is scheduled for June 3.

• Approved March 25 meeting minutes
• Authorized Marina to set up a website for $192 for one year
• Authorized Jenn to create a Facebook page with all members as admins

Board of Health

The Board of Health approved the minutes from the April 10 meeting. It unanimously approved a variance (local upgrade) for a Presby water system at 30 Campground Road. The Board also endorsed Warrant Article 10 of the 2025 Annual Town Meeting, authorized a board member to speak on it, approved a draft letter to the state about PFAS‑containing herbicides, and adopted the new body‑art regulations. A resident noted the town cleanup day was postponed to May 3.

• Approved April 10 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved local upgrade/variance for 30 Campground Road (all in favor)
• Endorsed Warrant Article 10 for Health Department audit (unanimous)
• Authorized Hassett to speak at Annual Town Meeting on the article (unanimous)
• Approved drafting a letter to the state on PFAS herbicides (unanimous)
• Approved body‑art regulations as posted on town website (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board approved the request for underground gasoline storage tanks at 110 Leominster Road. It also approved closing Cross Street on June 15 for the Wachusett Muster, signing an intermunicipal stormwater agreement with Shrewsbury, and granting an Entrance to Public Ways permit for 19 Chace Hill Road with a usage condition. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved underground storage tanks at 110 Leominster Road (motion carried)
• Approved closure of Cross Street on June 15, 8:00 am–5:00 pm for Wachusett Muster (motion carried)
• Approved signing of intermunicipal agreement with Shrewsbury for Central Massachusetts Regional Stormwater Coalition FY26–FY30 (motion carried)
• Approved Entrance to Public Ways permit for driveway at 19 Chace Hill Road, conditioned not to be primary access (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

Finance Committee

The committee accepted the March 27, 2025 minutes unanimously. It then approved the reappointment of Joe King and Mike Padula to the Finance Board, also unanimously. No position was taken on the Senior Citizen Tax Deferral petition.

• Approved acceptance of March 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved reappointment of Joe King and Mike Padula to Finance Board (unanimous)
• Committee declined to take a position on Senior Citizen Tax Deferral petition (no vote)

Open Space Implementation Committee

The Open Space Implementation Committee unanimously accepted the agenda and the March 26 minutes. A motion to research joining the Arbor Day Foundation's Tree City initiative passed with five yeas and one abstention. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted March 26 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to research Tree City participation (5 yeas, 1 abstention)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Commission approved Paul Couture's Notice of Intent to upgrade the septic system at 246 Redemption Rock Road, adding a condition that work cannot begin until the Board of Health gives approval. It also accepted a $2,200 quote for a third‑party review of New England Power's ROW project and moved that hearing to May 13. A negative determination of applicability was granted for CSX Transportation’s herbicide use on the railway ROW, and the hearing on the Kayrouz Realty service‑station proposal was continuanced to May 13.

• Approved septic system NOI at 246 Redemption Rock Rd with Board of Health condition (4‑0, 2 abstentions)
• Accepted $2,200 third‑party review quote for New England Power ROW project (5‑0, 1 recused)
• Continuanced New England Power hearing to May 13 (5‑0, 1 recused)
• Negative determination of applicability for CSX herbicide use on railway ROW (6‑0)
• Continuanced Kayrouz Realty service‑station hearing to May 13 (6‑0)
• Reconsidered and amended New England Power continuance date to May 13 (5‑0, 1 recused)
• Agreed to send a letter of support for the May 5 Town Meeting erosion‑control fund article (6‑0)

Trustees of the Conant Public Library

The trustees approved the March 10 meeting minutes without opposition. They then voted unanimously to adopt a minor amendment to the Behavior Policy adding service‑animal‑in‑training language. A second unanimous vote approved an amendment to the Public Participation Policy adding speaker time limits. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved amended Behavior Policy (unanimous)
• Approved amended Public Participation Policy (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board unanimously approved the March 19, 2025 meeting minutes after a slight amendment. A public hearing on proposed body‑art regulations was opened and then closed, both by unanimous vote. The next meeting was tentatively set for April 24, 2025 pending a variance request, and the regular May 8, 2025 meeting was scheduled.

• Approved March 19 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on body‑art regulations (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on body‑art regulations (unanimous)
• Scheduled tentative April 24 meeting pending variance request
• Scheduled regular May 8 meeting at 6:00 PM
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Department of Public Works

The committee accepted the minutes from the April 2 meeting by a 5‑0 vote. It then approved Western & Sampson as the designer services firm, also by a 5‑0 vote. The Finance Committee reported a pending request for $500,000 in capital‑investment funding with a 0.17 % tax increase. Plans for public education events were announced for late April.

• Accepted April 2 minutes (5-0)
• Approved Western & Sampson for Designer Services (5-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board approved the SMLD grant application for $194,583.79 to fund 29,913 feet of fiber cable. It also approved signage for Gibbs Little League and the Sterling Girls Softball Association, appointed Walter Radock as alternate Building Inspector, and signed the annual school maintenance agreement. The Board voted to pursue ATM notifications and childcare options for the upcoming Annual Town meeting and entered executive session before adjourning.

• Approved SMLD grant request of $194,583.79 (motion carried)
• Approved signage for Gibbs Little League field fences (motion carried)
• Approved signage for Sterling Girls Softball Association field fences (motion carried)
• Appointed Walter Radock as alternate Building Inspector (motion carried)
• Signed annual school maintenance agreement (motion carried)
• Approved pursuit of ATM notifications and childcare options for Annual Town meeting (motion carried)
• Entered executive session and adjourned (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of March 26, 2025 meeting (motion carried)

Council on Aging

The board approved the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes and the Treasurer’s Report. It accepted the Director’s Report and decided to include eggs in the next breakfast. The board unanimously waived the term‑limit restriction, allowing Treasurer Dave Cosgrove to serve a third three‑year term. Additional actions included moving the Rotary Club breakfast to August 29, appointing Everett Pierce as chair of the Landscaping Committee, and adjourning the meeting at 1:49 p.m.

• Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Director’s Report (unanimous)
• Decision to include eggs in next breakfast (unanimous)
• Rotary Club breakfast changed to August 29 (unanimous)
• Waived term‑limit restriction for Dave Cosgrove’s third term (unanimous)
• Appointed Everett Pierce as chair of the Landscaping Committee (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:49 p.m. (unanimous)

Department of Public Works

The board accepted the March 11, 2025 minutes (3‑0) and approved Mr. Mouradian’s proposals (3‑0). After discussion, the board decided to proceed with the FY'26 water rate increases, with a public hearing to follow. The board also agreed to place No Dogs Allowed signs in Oak Hill Cemetery. The meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.

• Accepted March 11, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Accepted Mr. Mouradian’s proposals (3‑0)
• Proceed with FY'26 water rate increases (decision made)
• Place No Dogs Allowed signs in Oak Hill Cemetery (decision made)
• Adjourned meeting (motion at 9:02 PM)

Department of Public Works

The committee accepted the March 13, 2025 minutes with a 4‑0 vote. The Finance Committee and Capital approved Article #24 to fund the DPW building project. A Meeting House News article was also approved. Future meetings and an informational session were scheduled.

• Accepted March 13, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Article #24 borrowing for DPW building project
• Approved Meeting House News article

Fair Committee

The Fair Committee approved not paying for a princess actor and approved inviting the Witches back for the 2025 fair. The proposal to add additional revenue sources was tabled. The committee also decided not to invite Animal Adventures and confirmed that Vegas pull‑tabs are ready. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Not pay for princess actor (approved)
• Invite witches back (approved)
• Additional revenue sources (tabled)
• Animal Adventures not invited (approved)
• Vegas pull tabs ready (status confirmed)
• Consider wooden pens for MOTT grant (discussion noted)
• Safety meeting to be scheduled for second‑to‑last week in May (planned)
• Ticket numbering and volunteer distribution to be considered (pending)

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted 4‑0 to approve the site plan for the gas station and convenience store at 110 Leominster Road, subject to conditions read by the Town Planner. The Board also set its next meeting for April 24, 2025 at 6:30 pm. Minutes from the February 27, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously, while approval of the March 13, 2025 minutes was postponed because a quorum was not present.

• Approved site plan for 110 Leominster Road gas station (4‑0)
• Set next meeting date for April 24, 2025 at 6:30 pm
• Approved February 27, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0)
• Postponed approval of March 13, 2025 meeting minutes due to lack of quorum

Open Space Implementation Committee

The committee unanimously approved OSIC’s advisory role on Chapter Land withdrawals. It also unanimously supported the Eagle Scout footbridge project, accepted the meeting agenda and amended minutes, and approved corrections to the Howard and Bertha Hall inscription. No action was taken on the Open Space and Recreation Plan update or the Lynde Basins and Allenwood Trail rerouting. The meeting was adjourned at 8:22 p.m.

• Approved OSIC advisory role on Chapter Land withdrawals (unanimous)
• Supported Eagle Scout footbridge project (unanimous)
• Accepted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted amended minutes for Feb. 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved inscription typo corrections (unanimous)
• No action taken on Open Space and Recreation Plan update
• No action taken on Rerouting of the Lynde Basins and Allenwood Trail
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board unanimously approved the IAC’s insurance recommendation, the antique dealer permits, and an entrance‑to‑public‑ways permit for 41 and 43 Johnson Road. It also supported ATM warrant articles (all but the meals‑tax article) and a borrowing authorization for the Swett Hill Drainage project, contingent on a debt exclusion. Additionally, the board appointed Christine Arsenault as registrar and Jack Lundgren and Andrew Bluestein to the Economic Development Committee. All motions passed with unanimous Aye votes.

• Approved IAC insurance recommendation (unanimous)
• Approved antique dealer permits (unanimous)
• Approved entrance to public ways permit for 41 & 43 Johnson Road (unanimous)
• Approved ATM warrant articles (unanimous except meals‑tax article opposed by Cranson)
• Supported borrowing authorization for Swett Hill Drainage project, contingent on debt exclusion (unanimous)
• Appointed Christine Arsenault to Board of Registrars (unanimous)
• Appointed Jack Lundgren and Andrew Bluestein to Economic Development Committee (unanimous)
• Approved March 12 minutes and March 17 executive minutes (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board approved a special permit for Kayrouz Realty LLC to operate a motor vehicle service station at 110 Leominster Road, subject to multiple conditions covering insurance, environmental safeguards, lighting, and operational limits. The permit was granted unanimously with a 5‑0 vote. The board also approved the amended minutes from the March 11, 2025 meeting by a 5‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Granted special permit for motor vehicle service station at 110 Leominster Rd (5-0)
• Approved amended March 11, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Cultural Council

The Sterling Cultural Council approved the minutes from the February 11 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; the council discussed upcoming programs and new ideas. The next council meeting was scheduled for April 29 at 4:30 pm.

• Approved February 11 meeting minutes
• Scheduled next meeting for April 29 at 4:30 pm

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved Certificates of Compliance for 2 Sandy Way (parcel #290-235) and the Sanders Company Building on Northeast Blvd (parcel #295-390). The public hearing on the septic system upgrade at 246 Redemption Rock Trail was continued to the April 15 meeting. The commission also approved corrections to the December 3, 2024 minutes and adopted the February 25, 2025 minutes as amended. A new part‑time Conservation Agent, Maxwell Bollous, was introduced and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved Certificates of Compliance for 2 Sandy Way (#290-235) and Sanders Co. Building on NE Blvd (#295-390) – unanimous
• Continued public hearing on septic system upgrade at 246 Redemption Rock Trail to next meeting – unanimous
• Approved correction of December 3, 2024 minutes to remove erroneous cease‑and‑desist note – unanimous
• Approved February 25, 2025 minutes with amended date and highlighted text – unanimous
• Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting – unanimous

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee unanimously approved a reimbursement of up to $400 for Lex Thomas's signage for the Annual Town Meeting. The committee also unanimously approved the minutes from the February 24, 2025 meeting. New members Andrew Bluestein and Jack Lundgren were unanimously accepted onto the committee.

• Approved $400 reimbursement to Lex Thomas for ATM signage (unanimously)
• Approved membership of Andrew Bluestein and Jack Lundgren (unanimously)
• Approved minutes of 2/24/2025 (unanimously)

Board of Health

The Board approved the February 13 and February 25 meeting minutes. It accepted the Dog Waste Bylaw as written and forwarded it to the Select Board. The Board also moved to post draft body‑art regulations online, publish a newspaper notice, and hold a public hearing on the regulations. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved February 13, 2025 minutes (as amended) – unanimous
• Approved February 25, 2025 minutes – carried (one abstention)
• Accepted Dog Waste Bylaw as written and submitted to Select Board – unanimous
• Directed draft body‑art regulations be posted on town website – motion carried
• Ordered newspaper notice of body‑art regulations for two weeks – motion carried
• Scheduled public hearing on body‑art regulations – motion carried
• Placed draft body‑art regulations on April 10, 2025 agenda – decision made
• Adjourned meeting – motion carried