The Boring PartsFederalLocal · USLocal · Canada
Stow, MA

Stow public meetings in 2025

291 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.

Mon Dec 22, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board of Assessors will discuss FY2027 budget and solar facility regulations

The Stow Board of Assessors will discuss and vote on several agenda items, including invoices, meeting minutes, motor vehicle, boat, real estate and personal property warrants and reports, the FY2027 Budget Letter, the Assessor’s Notice, and rooftop residential solar facilities under state law. The board will also hold an executive session to consider FY2026 personal exemption applications, FY2027 senior work‑off applications, FY2027 chapter‑land applications, and pending appellate tax board litigation. Public comments and chair comments will precede the business items, and the meeting will conclude with an executive‑session adjournment.

budgettaxessolarproperty-assessmentexecutive-session
✓ Decided: Board approves FY2026 budget, allocating $37.2M to real estate

The Stow Board of Assessors unanimously approved the FY2026 budget, including $37,196,007.36 for real estate, $458,568.71 for personal property, and $974,468.55 for the Community Preservation Act surcharge. They also approved several financial items: Vision invoice ($513.00), USPS invoice ($1,268.85), IAOA invoice ($255.00), a motor‑vehicle commitment of $26,881.85, and a motor‑vehicle abatement report of $752.77. The board voted to post the Assessor’s Notice on the website and bulletin board, and to table the solar‑panel discussion until after the holidays.

Wed Dec 17, 2025

Open Space Committee

Open Space Committee to review 2026 action items

The Open Space Committee will meet to receive updates on the Comprehensive Plan and the Community Preservation Committee. The body will also discuss accessibility at Delaney and review the 2026 Open Space and Recreation Plan action items.

open-spacerecreationplanningaccessibility
Wed Dec 17, 2025

Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

Discussion of Bird Meadow RFP and related land purchase agreements

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will meet remotely on Dec 17, 2025. The board will review the meeting schedule, approve minutes, handle correspondence, bills and payments, and receive trustee reports. A key agenda item is the Bird Meadow RFP, covering a Community Preservation Committee grant agreement, updates on purchase and sale and land development agreements, and the timeline for next steps. No specific decisions are listed in the agenda.

affordable-housinggrantsland-developmentmeetings
Tue Dec 16, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to review FY27 operational budget and capital plan

The Planning Board will meet to discuss the FY27 Operational Budget and 5 Year Capital Plan. The board will also consider a request for cell tower equipment modifications and the allowance of firearms businesses in specific districts.

budgetzoningtelecommunicationscapital-planning
✓ Decided: Board approves FY27 budget, capital plan and cell tower modification

The Planning Board approved the FY27 Operational Budget as presented, with all members voting yea. The Board also approved the five‑year Capital Plan, adding a $450,000 placeholder for Gleasondale improvements to the FY2029 request. The Board granted Crown Castle’s request to modify the existing telecommunications tower at 23 Hillcrest Avenue, approving the revised equipment plan. No other actions were taken.

Tue Dec 16, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Stow committee to review traffic safety data and budget items

The Stow Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will meet to review correspondence, minutes, and member updates. The agenda includes discussions on traffic data near the Stow Shopping Center, a proposed crosswalk at Johnston Way and Great Road, and traffic enforcement near Garner Road and Harvard Road.

traffic-safetybudgetcrosswalkenforcementdata-review
✓ Decided: Approved FY27 $25K budget increase and traffic invoice; minutes ratified

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee unanimously approved the November 18, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved the Traffic Solutions invoice, contingent on need. Members voted 4‑0 to add $25,000 to the FY27 budget. No other actions were taken.

Tue Dec 16, 2025

Conservation Commission

Commission will vote on a red‑line change for 0 Northshore Drive

The Stow Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a septic system replacement at 45 Hiley Brook Road. Commissioners will consider ratifying an enforcement order and a restoration plan for the Gleasondale Road gas main operated by NSTAR Gas dba Eversource. They will also review and vote on a follow‑up letter for 59 Great Road and approve a red‑line change to the plan for 0 Northshore Drive. A draft Fiscal Year 2027 budget and staff updates will be discussed.

septicgasbudgetzoningconservationpublic-hearings
Mon Dec 15, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

Discussion of Conservation Restriction for Rock Bottom Farm and West School Restoration

The Community Preservation Committee will first approve the minutes from the December 1, 2025 meeting. It will then discuss two final applications: a conservation restriction for Rock Bottom Farm and a restoration project for West School. The committee will also consider a $100 invoice to The Independent of Stow and Bolton for advertising a public hearing, and review the CPA project status list and representative committee reports.

community-preservationconservationschool-restorationfinancemeetings
✓ Decided: CPC approved meeting minutes and a $100 invoice

The Community Preservation Committee approved the December 15, 2025 meeting minutes with a 6‑0 vote. It also approved invoice #1103 for $100 to the Independent of Stow and Bolton, again 6‑0. No decisions were made on the Rock Bottom Farm conservation restriction or the West School restoration; those items remain under discussion. The next meeting is scheduled for January 5, 2026.

Thu Dec 11, 2025

Board of Health

Board reviews septic system upgrade proposal for 45 Hiley Brook Road

The Stow Board of Health will consider a proposed septic system upgrade at 45 Hiley Brook Road. The proposal seeks variances from Title 5 requirements, including an 83‑foot leach field setback from a private well (instead of the required 100 feet), a leach area sized for 100 % of the design flow rather than 150 %, and a 60‑foot setback from a wetland rather than 100 feet. The agenda also lists routine business items such as agency reports, FY27 budget planning, and the adoption of minutes.

septicenvironmentbudgethealth-boardreports
Thu Dec 11, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Vote on propane-use letter for Hemenway Farm development

The Stow Green Advisory Committee will discuss several updates, including a review of recent meeting minutes and project updates. The committee will vote on a revised letter to the Planning Department about propane use at the Hemenway Farm development. It will also vote on a revised Specialized Energy Code for builders and developers in Stow.

green-advisoryenvironmentenergyplanningdevelopmentbuilding-codeclimate
✓ Decided: Committee postpones Polystyrene Bylaw and approves two draft documents

The committee decided the planned Polystyrene Bylaw for the May 2026 Town Meeting will not move forward as originally scheduled. The committee unanimously approved a draft letter to the Planning Department concerning propane use for the Hemenway Farm development, subject to Town Administrator review. The committee also unanimously approved a revised “Specialized Energy Code for Builders and Developers in Stow.”

Thu Dec 11, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Board reviews November minutes and hears program and liaison reports

The Stow Council on Aging Board will review and accept the minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting. It will receive liaison reports from the Community Preservation Committee and Minuteman Senior Services, as well as outreach worker reports on durable medical equipment, the food program, and events. Additional updates will be given in the chair's report, the director's report (including budget and building security), and the social worker's report.

agingreportsbudgetcommunitysenior-servicesliaison
✓ Decided: Board accepted minutes and adjourned unanimously

The Council on Aging Board approved the November 13, 2025 minutes as written. A motion to adjourn was made and seconded, and the meeting was closed with a unanimous vote. No other substantive actions were decided.

Tue Dec 9, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to vote on 2026 seasonal population increase and liquor license renewals

The Stow Select Board will discuss special event permits for Menorah Lighting and the MLK Day of Service, accept an easement for Lake Boon Dam access, maintenance, and repair, consider adopting the town’s Comprehensive Plan, review the Town Administrator contract renewal, and vote on the 2026 seasonal population increase and multiple liquor license renewals.

licensingpermitsplanningcontractseventsseasonal-populationtown-government
✓ Decided: Select Board adopts Comprehensive Plan, appoints library trustee, and approves permits

The board unanimously adopted the town’s Comprehensive Plan, formalizing a roadmap for growth and resource protection. It also approved the appointment of Aisha Anderson to the Randall Library Board and Lani Criasia as Treasurer/Collector. Special event permits were granted for a menorah lighting and a tabled permit for a Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, and the Lake Boon Dam easement was accepted. The board expressed intent to renew the Town Administrator’s contract and approved several liquor license renewals.

Tue Dec 9, 2025

Planning Board

Board will discuss the Draft Lower Village Design Guidelines

The Stow Planning Board will review the Draft Lower Village Design Guidelines presented by Dodson & Flinker. It will also consider the Draft Action Plan from the Comprehensive Plan that was posted on December 4. The meeting includes reports, public input, and updates on various correspondence items. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

design-guidelinescomprehensive-planpublic-hearingsepticzoning
✓ Decided: Planning Board approved November 18 minutes

The Stow Planning Board unanimously approved the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. Members discussed the Draft Lower Village Design Guidelines and a draft Comprehensive Plan Action Plan, but no formal adoption occurred. The board also agreed to defer a response to firearms‑related correspondence to a future meeting and then adjourned.

Thu Dec 4, 2025

Historical Commission

Stow Historical Commission to discuss West School and town artifacts

The Historical Commission will meet to approve previous minutes and the 2025 Treasurer’s report. The body will discuss building permits, town artifacts, plaques, and the West School.

historical-preservationtown-artifactsbuilding-permitscommunity-preservation
✓ Decided: Commission approved minutes, treasurer’s report and set roof‑estimate, plaque‑maker actions

The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes as amended. The commission unanimously accepted the treasurer’s report as submitted. Bob Norton agreed to send contractor names to Barbara for roof estimate work. Barbara Clancy will obtain contact information for a new plaque‑maker for Dot Spaulding.

Wed Dec 3, 2025

Randall Library Building Committee 2.0

Committee will receive an update on the designLAB library project.

The Library Building Committee will hear an update on the designLAB project, review Collier’s Report, and consider approving the minutes from the June meeting. Any additional items may be raised under “Other items not reasonably anticipated.” The meeting will be conducted via Zoom.

libraryconstructionmeetingzoom
Tue Dec 2, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Board will consider and vote on new trustee appointment candidates

The Randall Library Board of Trustees will review reports, discuss reopening plans, donor recognition, and the size of the board. They will vote on appointing new trustee candidates and may vote on a donor plaque. Additional discussion will cover event branding, a dedicated website, and meeting timing for 2026. The meeting will conclude with approval of minutes and adjournment.

governancetrusteeslibraryeventsdonors
✓ Decided: Board recommends Aisha Anderson for library trustee seat

The trustees voted unanimously to replace Maureen on the director search subcommittee with Richard. They also unanimously recommended Aisha Anderson to the Select Board to fill the vacant trustee seat. Motions to accept the minutes and to adjourn the meeting both passed unanimously. No decision was made on reducing the board size or changing meeting dates.

Mon Dec 1, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

Committee may vote on Final Community Preservation Plan

The Stow Community Preservation Committee will first approve the minutes from the November 17, 2025 meeting. It will then consider two final applications: the West School Restoration and a conservation restriction on Rock Bottom Farm. A possible vote on the Final Community Preservation Plan, including the CPA Project Status List, is scheduled. Representative committee reports will also be presented.

community-preservationschool-restorationconservationminutes-approvalcommittee-reports
✓ Decided: Committee adopted the Final 2027 Community Preservation Plan

The Stow Community Preservation Committee approved the November 17, 2025 minutes and adopted the Final 2027 CPC Plan with a 6‑yes, 0‑no, 1‑abstain vote. The committee set the next meeting for December 15, 2025, and assigned staff tasks to post the plan online and invite the Conservation Director to that meeting. No applications were approved or denied at this session.

Tue Nov 25, 2025

Select Board

Board will discuss and possibly vote on the Girl Scout Gold Award Mural Project.

The Select Board will discuss and possibly vote on the Girl Scout Gold Award Mural Project. It will also consider special event permits for the Stow Town Christmas Tree Lighting (Lions Club, Dec 5‑6, 2025) and the Second Annual Stow Area Guild of Artists Holiday Fair (Dec 13‑14, 2025), a Shelburne Farm request to pro‑rate 2026 liquor license(s), and a petition to validate the Special Town Meeting posting date. Additional items include renewals for 2026 common victualers and Class II liquor licenses, and a request to surplus a 2004 DPW truck lift. The meeting also features a tax classification public hearing and routine reports.

muralspecial-event-permitsliquor-licensetown-assetstax-classificationcommon-victualer
✓ Decided: Select Board adopts single tax rate for FY 2026

The board voted unanimously to keep a single tax rate for fiscal year 2026 by adopting a minimum residential factor of 1. It also appointed Paul Keeffe as firefighter/EMT and Tina McAndrew to the Local Access Channel Advisory Committee. Additional unanimous actions included granting special event permits, setting seasonal liquor‑license fees, authorizing a special‑act petition, and declaring an old DPW truck lift surplus.

Thu Nov 20, 2025

Economic Development and Industrial Commission

EDIC to review strategic plan and business outreach tools

The Economic Development and Industrial Commission will discuss updates to the Stow Business Guide, business database, and business survey. The commission will also review the current progress of its Strategic Plan and determine which stakeholders should be surveyed for feedback.

economic-developmentstrategic-planningbusiness-outreachstow-ma
Thu Nov 20, 2025

Board of Health

Board of Health to review community health assessment results

The Stow Board of Health will participate in a virtual meeting with the Nashoba Associated Boards of Health to review initial results from a community health assessment and prioritize needs.

healthassessmentvirtual-meetingnashobacommunity-health
Wed Nov 19, 2025

Open Space Committee

Open Space Committee to review 2026 OSRP action items

The Open Space Committee will discuss updates to the Community Preservation and Comprehensive plans. Members will review the action plan for the 2026 Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP). The meeting includes updates on specific land projects and zoning.

open-spacezoningconservationland-useplanning
✓ Decided: Committee approved October 22, 2025 minutes

The Open Space Committee accepted the minutes from the October 22 meeting with four votes in favor and two abstentions. The committee discussed updates on Rockbottom Farm, Stow Acres driving range, and other projects, but deferred the Comprehensive Plan update and the Delaney Accessibility issue. Members will vote on future project priorities at the next meeting.

Tue Nov 18, 2025

Registrars of Voters

Board of Registrars will certify petitions at multiple meetings in November‑December 2025

The Board of Registrars of Voters will meet on November 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, and December 1, 2025 at the Town Building, 380 Great Rd., Stow. At each meeting, registrars will certify petitions that were posted on November 12, 2025 at 5:00 pm, as their schedules allow. No other agenda items are listed.

electionspetitionsregistrarstown-meetingstow
Tue Nov 18, 2025

Conservation Commission

Commission hears notice of intent for 26-unit conservation development on Walcott Street

The commission will continue a public hearing on Bentley Building Corp’s notice of intent for a 26‑unit conservation development at 33 and 45 Walcott Street. It will also consider routine items such as approving the meeting minutes, setting the 2026 meeting schedule, and an update on 59 Great Road enforcement. Additional agenda items include a vote on a draft Residences at Stow Acres Environmental Notification Form, ratification of the Potash Brook Beaver Dam Breaching Emergency Certification, and a vote on a UTV capital article.

developmentconservationpublic-hearingenvironmentinfrastructure
✓ Decided: Commission ratified emergency beaver dam breaching certification

The Stow Conservation Commission approved several actions, including continuing the Bentley Building hearing, adopting the November 5 minutes, drafting a response letter to the 59 Great Road owners, approving a comment letter for the Stow Acres environmental notification form, ratifying an emergency certification to breach the Potash Brook beaver dam, and supporting a joint capital request for a new UTV. All motions passed unanimously. The commission also set a March 18 2026 filing deadline for the owners’ request for determination.

Tue Nov 18, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Committee will review and approve expenses for the Marlboro Road intersection project

The Stow Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will consider several items, including approving costs for the Marlboro Road intersection project. They will also examine traffic data near the Stow Shopping Center, discuss the 2025 Fall Traffic After Action Report, and receive an update on a proposal for traffic enforcement on Garner Road and Harvard Road.

traffic-safetybudgetdata-reviewenforcement
✓ Decided: Committee approved Old Marlboro Road invoice payment and $600 reallocation to Beta

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee approved the minutes from October 21 and November 4, 2025. It voted 4‑0 to allocate $600, originally set aside for the Old Marlboro Road project, to the Beta traffic‑counter initiative. The committee also approved payment of the Old Marlboro Road Intersection Project invoices. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Tue Nov 18, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to consider adoption of Stow Comprehensive Plan 2035

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit and site plan for an auto service shop. The board will also discuss the adoption of the “Stow Comprehensive Plan 2035: Envision Stow for All of Us” and review a zoning bylaw audit.

zoningcomprehensive-planspecial-permitland-use
✓ Decided: Planning Board adopts Comprehensive Plan and schedules next hearing

The Stow Planning Board approved the minutes from the November 4, 2025 meeting. The Board adopted the town’s Comprehensive Plan as written. It also moved to continue the public hearing on the Auto Service & Tire Repair Shop site to January 20, 2026. All votes were unanimous.

Mon Nov 17, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board will consider rooftop solar facilities and classification hearing delegation

The Stow Board of Assessors will review routine items such as invoices, meeting minutes, and motor vehicle excise warrants and exemptions. It will discuss delegating a classification hearing to Kristen Fox and consider proposals for rooftop residential solar facilities under state law. The board will also address personal exemption, senior work‑off, Chapterland applications, and pending appellate tax litigation.

taxessolarexemptionslitigationproperty-assessmenthearings
✓ Decided: Board delegated Classification Hearing presentation to Principal Assessor Kristen Fox

The board approved several invoices totaling $4,146.96 and approved the October 2025 Motor Vehicle Abatement Report. It approved the meeting minutes from October 20, 2025. The board voted to delegate the Classification Hearing presentation to Principal Assessor Kristen Fox. Discussion on residential solar panel taxation was tabled for a future meeting, and the board entered executive session to consider exemption applications and pending litigation.

Mon Nov 17, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

Committee may vote on final Community Preservation Plan and housing MoU

The Stow Community Preservation Committee will consider several items, including approval of the November 3 minutes and a state match update. Members may vote on a Memorandum of Understanding with the Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust and on the Final Community Preservation Plan. An invoice for $3,200 to DM Berg Consultants for a structural condition survey will be reviewed, and a presentation on the West School Preservation Project will be given.

community-preservationaffordable-housingfinanceplanningeducation
✓ Decided: Committee approved $3,200 invoice for West School structural survey

The committee approved the minutes from the November 3 meeting and approved a $3,200 invoice for a structural condition survey of the West School, funded from the Administrative‑Consultant budget. Discussion of the Memorandum of Understanding with SMAHT was tabled until legal issues are resolved. The Historical Commission agreed to submit a larger funding application for the West School restoration project.

Mon Nov 17, 2025

Cultural Council

Cultural Council will review minutes and discuss FY26 grant allocations

The Stow Cultural Council will review and vote on the minutes from its August 18, 2025 meeting. It will discuss the FY26 grantee review and how award funds will be allocated. The council will also consider planning items for 2026, including an outline for the SAGA Art Show and the SCC Community Event.

culturalgrantsartseventsplanning
Thu Nov 13, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Green Advisory Committee to vote on energy codes and Hemenway Farm propane use

The Green Advisory Committee will review and vote on a letter to the Planning Department regarding propane use at the Hemenway Farm development. The committee will also vote on a document titled “Specialized Energy Code for Builders and Developers in Stow”.

energy-codesenvironmentzoningclimate-grantbuilding-standards
✓ Decided: Committee approved October 9 minutes with unanimous yeas

The Stow Green Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the October 9 meeting by unanimous vote. They decided to update the letter to the Planning Department and defer a final vote on it to the next meeting, tasking John Colonna‑Romano with the revisions. John Colonna‑Romano was also assigned to draft an updated Specialized Energy Code aimed at developers for review at the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

Thu Nov 13, 2025

Board of Health

Board reviews waivers for septic system upgrade at 116 White Pond Road

The Board will consider three waiver requests for the septic system upgrade at 116 White Pond Road, including leach field sizing and well setback reductions. It will also review a design approval request to reduce the groundwater offset for a septic upgrade at 39 Sawmill Road. Additionally, the Board will discuss the proposed accessory dwelling unit room count at 10 Sylvan Drive and receive routine reports.

septiczoninghousinghealthpermits
Thu Nov 13, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Stow Council on Aging Board to review senior services and reports

The Council on Aging Board will meet to review minutes from September and October 2025. The board will receive reports on senior services, including food programs and medical equipment. The meeting includes updates from the Director and Social Worker.

seniorscommunity-servicespublic-healthstow
✓ Decided: Board accepted prior minutes and adjourned unanimously

The Council on Aging Board reviewed and accepted the October 9, 2025 minutes. A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were decided.

Thu Nov 6, 2025

Historical Commission

Stow Historical Commission to discuss West School and town artifacts

The Historical Commission will review building permits and receive updates on Community Preservation Commission projects. The body will also discuss plaques, town artifacts, and the West School.

historical-preservationcommunity-preservationtown-artifactsbuilding-permits
✓ Decided: Commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes and treasurer’s report

The Stow Historical Commission approved the amended meeting minutes and accepted the treasurer’s report, both by unanimous vote. Members agreed to review the West School CPC application draft via email before the next meeting. The commission also decided to obtain contact information for a new plaque maker.

Wed Nov 5, 2025

Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

SMAHT to review proposals for Bird Meadow project

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will meet to review proposals for the Bird Meadow project and approve minutes from a prior meeting. The agenda also includes a review of the Hemenway Farm Plan.

housingtrustbird-meadowhemenway-farmrfpmeeting
✓ Decided: SMAHT unanimously approves prior minutes, ad invoice and Bird Meadow contract

The trust unanimously approved the minutes from the September 24 meeting. It also approved payment of a $115.00 invoice (invoice #1065) for two ads in The Independent News LLC. Trustees voted unanimously to accept the Bird Meadow RFP proposal as responsive and to recommend moving forward with the contract. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

Wed Nov 5, 2025

Conservation Commission

Stow Conservation Commission to hear tree removal requests

The Stow Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a tree removal request at 66 Hiley Brook Road and a continued hearing for a project at 35 Hale Road. The meeting will also include approving minutes and a request for a Certificate of Compliance at 77-79 Randall Road.

conservationtree-removalpublic-hearingzoningstow-ma
✓ Decided: Commission issued certificates and determinations for three property requests

The Stow Conservation Commission approved the October 21, 2025 minutes and then issued a Certificate of Compliance for 77‑79 Randall Road. It closed the public hearings for 66 Hiley Brook Road and 35 Hale Road, issued a Negative 3 Determination with conditions for 66 Hiley Brook Road, and adopted an Order of Conditions for 35 Hale Road. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Tue Nov 4, 2025

Hale High School Fund Trustees

Hale High School Fund Trustees to review investment policy and library grants

The Hale High School Fund Trustees will meet to review their investment policy, discuss the status of a 2025 grant to the library, and prepare for the 2025 Annual Town Report. The meeting will be held at the Stow Town Building.

school-fundlibraryinvestmentreportgrant
✓ Decided: Trustees unanimously adopt amended Investment Policy Statement for HHSF

The trustees approved the revised Investment Policy Statement and authorized Chair Jeff Smith to sign it on behalf of the board. They confirmed the $15,500 grant payment to the Randall Library and accepted the May 6, 2025 minutes. The next trustees meeting was scheduled for January 13, 2026.

Tue Nov 4, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to appoint Interim Assistant Town Administrator

The Stow Select Board will meet to appoint Tina McAndrew to the position of Interim Assistant Town Administrator and review correspondence from the Town Clerk and Nashoba Regional School District.

select-boardappointmentstown-administratornashoba-schoolsliquor-licensepublic-meeting
✓ Decided: Board appoints Tina McAndrew as interim assistant town administrator

The Select Board unanimously approved Tina McAndrew as Interim Assistant Town Administrator. The Board also unanimously accepted the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

Tue Nov 4, 2025

Planning Board

Board will consider Hemenway Farm subdivision and conservation development permit

The board will review minutes, liaison reports and the Planning Director’s report, then hear public input. It will hold a public hearing to consider a definitive subdivision and planned conservation development special permit and site‑plan approval for Hemenway Farm off Walcott Street. The board will also vote on a request for a minor modification of cottages in the Active Adult Neighborhood at Wandering Pond on Athens Street.

zoningdevelopmentpublic-hearinghousingplanning
✓ Decided: Board scheduled continuation of Hemenway Farm hearing for Jan 6, 2026

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the October 21 and October 27 meetings. It voted to continue the public hearing for the Hemenway Farm subdivision without testimony to a hybrid meeting on Jan 6, 2026 at 7:15 PM. The board also accepted the draft minor‑modification decision for the cottages at Wandering Pond. The meeting was then adjourned.

Tue Nov 4, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Board will approve funds for a pay increase for interim library directors

The Randall Library Board of Trustees will consider appointing interim directors and approving money for their pay increase. It will also review and vote on fees for a director job posting, set up a search subcommittee, appoint a new trustee, and vote on a budget for reopening groups. Additional items include reports from the chair and treasurer and an open public comment period.

librarypersonnelbudgethiringgovernance
✓ Decided: Trustees unanimously approved interim director appointments and related stipend

The board approved the draft letters appointing Jael Gorham and Sarah Hurtig as interim directors, authorizing a $500 weekly stipend for each. They also authorized up to $750 for job posting fees, approved the job posting format, and established a search subcommittee consisting of ATA Tina McAndrew and Trustees David Carroll and Maureen Busch. A $5,000 budget was approved for reopening events.

Tue Nov 4, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Committee to discuss temporary one-way traffic on Tuttle Lane

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will meet to review a specific traffic request. The body is discussing a proposal from Taproot Tree Farm regarding Tuttle Lane.

traffic-safetytuttle-laneroad-access
✓ Decided: TSAC approves temporary closure of Tuttle Lane on Nov 22‑30

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee voted unanimously to close Tuttle Lane from South Acton Road to Red Acre on November 22, 23, 28, 29, and 30, each day from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. DPW/Police will install non‑advisory barricades, and Taproot Farm will remove them each evening and reinstall them each morning. The motion passed 3‑0.

Mon Nov 3, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

ZBA to hear special permit request for Gleasondale Road property

The Stow Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a special permit application for 462-464 Gleasondale Road. The meeting will be held in person at 380 Great Road and online via Zoom.

zoningspecial-permitpublic-hearinggleasondale-roadstow-mazba
✓ Decided: Board granted a special permit for 462-464 Gleasondale Road.

The Zoning Board approved the October 6, 2025 minutes (4‑4 vote). A public hearing was held for 462‑464 Gleasondale Road, after which the Board granted a special permit and approved the accompanying decision (both 5‑0 votes). The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 pm (4‑0 vote).

Mon Nov 3, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC to consider $1,000,000 conservation funding for Rock Bottom Farm

The Stow Community Preservation Committee will approve the October 20, 2025 minutes and review the Special Town Meeting. It will discuss a $1,000,000 notice of intent for funding a conservation restriction at Rock Bottom Farm and may vote on a memorandum of understanding with the Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust. The meeting also includes a ribbon‑cutting for Elizabeth Brook and a report from the committee representative on DM Berg Consultants work.

conservationfundinghousingcommunity-preservationmeeting
✓ Decided: Committee approved prior meeting minutes and unanimously adjourned

The Community Preservation Committee voted to approve the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting. All six members present voted yes. The committee then voted to adjourn the November 3 meeting, again with unanimous approval.

Tue Oct 28, 2025

Select Board

Board to consider a one‑day liquor license for Chill Kitchen & Bar event

The Select Board will discuss and possibly vote on several items, including a one‑day liquor license request for a November 6, 2025 event at the American Heritage Museum. Additional topics include a Lions Club request to restore the Town Sign on the Common, the Historical Commission’s plan to dispose of artifacts, and a review of the town’s perambulation report and upcoming perambulation. The agenda also covers routine business such as public comment, board updates, the Town Administrator’s report, and approval of the October 14, 2025 meeting minutes.

liquor-licensetown-signhistorical-artifactsperambulationboard-meeting
✓ Decided: Board approved a one‑day liquor license for a veterans appreciation event

The Select Board unanimously approved a one‑day special liquor license for John Logomasini of Chill Kitchen and Bar for a veterans appreciation event at the American Heritage Museum on November 6, 2025. It also unanimously approved certificates of appreciation for retiring Cemetery Supervisor Robb G.H. Gledhill and Library Director Tina McAndrew, authorized the Lions Club to repair the Town sign on the Common, and accepted the Historical Commission’s recommendations for handling town artifacts. The Board further accepted the 2020 perambulation report and the October 14 meeting minutes.

Tue Oct 28, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Board will vote to appoint an interim library director

The Randall Library Board of Trustees will consider and vote on appointing an interim director. The board will also discuss the process for selecting a new library director and vote on a new chair. Additional agenda items include a public comment period, a Design Lab meeting, and an update from reopening groups.

librarygovernancedirector-searchboardmeetings
✓ Decided: Morgan Hillman appointed as chair of the Randall Library Trustees

The board unanimously approved using the revised director job description for posting. They also approved the co‑interim director arrangement for Sarah and Jael. Morgan Hillman was elected chair and Mark Dexter was named treasurer, both by unanimous vote. The Design Lab discussion on the Donor Wall was tabled.

Mon Oct 27, 2025

Planning Board

Board will review routine planning board warrant articles

The Stow Planning Board will meet on October 27, 2025 at the Center School, 403 Great Road. The agenda consists of standard procedural items, including a review of the Planning Board warrant articles posted on October 23. No specific development proposals or contracts are listed for discussion.

planningboardagendaproceduralwarrant-articles
✓ Decided: Planning Board discussed MBTA compliance but made no formal decisions

The Board reviewed proposed zoning‑bylaw amendments to meet the MBTA Communities Act and shared updates from staff and members. Members expressed support for compliance and noted endorsements from other town committees. No motions were adopted, no votes were taken, and no actions were approved or denied.

Thu Oct 23, 2025

Economic Development and Industrial Commission

Commission will discuss multifamily housing zoning update and strategic plan progress

The Economic Development and Industrial Commission will review and approve minutes and correspondence, receive a multifamily housing zoning update from a Planning Board or department representative, and discuss work‑group updates on the Stow Business Guide, Business Database, and EDIC Business Survey. The commission will also review the strategic plan to date, consider survey questions for stakeholder groups, and discuss liaison activities with other organizations.

zoningeconomic-developmentplanningbusinessstrategic-plan
Thu Oct 23, 2025

Lake Boon Commission

Lake Boon Commission will discuss buoys, drawdown and upcoming budget

The Lake Boon Commission will hold a remote meeting on October 23, 2025. It will review and approve minutes, discuss buoys and drawdown, examine finances and bills, and consider the FY 2026‑7 budget.

water-managementbudgetinfrastructurelake-boon
✓ Decided: Commission unanimously approved June 9, 2025 meeting minutes

The Lake Boon Commission approved the minutes from the June 9, 2025 meeting without any changes, with a unanimous vote. The commission also unanimously approved the motion to adjourn the October 23, 2025 meeting. Other items such as buoy removal, drawdown, budget status, and a poster draft were reported but not decided.

Wed Oct 22, 2025

Open Space Committee

Committee will decide on approving the MBTA Zoning article for Town Meeting

The Stow Open Space Committee will consider two approvals that will be voted on at Town Meeting on October 27: the MBTA Zoning article and the use of CPC funds for wetlands restoration at Stow Acres. The meeting also includes routine approval of minutes and informational updates on the CPC, the Comprehensive Plan, work‑plan priorities, and Delaney Accessibility.

zoningenvironmentbudgetplanningopen-space
✓ Decided: Committee approved $150K for Stow Acres wetland reclamation

The committee accepted the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes after one member abstained. It unanimously endorsed the MBTA zoning article that will be voted on at the town meeting on October 27. Members also voted unanimously to allocate $150K for wetland reclamation at Stow Acres, to be funded through the Conservation Protection Committee. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 8 p.m.

Tue Oct 21, 2025

Open Space Committee

Committee will vote on approving MBTA zoning article for Town Meeting

The Stow Open Space Committee will approve the meeting minutes and then discuss and vote on two items that will go before the Town Meeting: the MBTA zoning article and the use of CPC funds for wetlands restoration at Stow Acres. The committee will also receive a CPC update, a Comprehensive Plan update, and discuss work‑plan priorities and the Delaney Accessibility Rseo.

zoningwetlandscpccomprehensive-planopen-spacetown-meeting
Tue Oct 21, 2025

Conservation Commission

Commission to hear carport, electric line, dock, tree removal at 35 Hale Rd

The Stow Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a notice of intent for a carport, electric line, dock, and tree removal at 35 Hale Road. An appointment and vote will be taken on a tree removal request at 25 Hallock Point Road. The commission will also consider several action items, including approval of minutes, a request for a certificate of compliance at 77‑79 Randall Road, an estoppel certificate vote for Stow Acres South Course, ratification of an enforcement order for 35 Hale, and discussion of 59 Great Road. Staff updates will be provided.

conservationpublic-hearingstreesinfrastructurepermits
✓ Decided: Commission issued Estoppel Certificate for Stow Acres South Course pending site visit

The commission approved the minutes from the October 7 meeting. It voted to issue an Estoppel Certificate for the Stow Acres South Course, contingent on a site visit. The hearing for the 35 Hale Road carport project was continued to November 5, and the commission approved removal of an unhealthy tree at Hallock Point using Conservation Funds. It also ratified the Enforcement Order for 35 Hale Road and then adjourned the meeting.

Tue Oct 21, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Traffic Safety Committee reviews multiple road safety proposals

The committee will consider several traffic‑safety proposals, including making Tuttle Lane temporarily one‑way and adding a traffic signal at Elm Ridge Road and Great Road. It will also review updates on traffic‑enforcement, crosswalk, and children‑sign projects on Garner Road, Harvard Road, Johnston Way, Hickory Lane and Boxboro Road. Additional discussion will cover the Town Center Project and traffic patterns at the Stow Shopping Center.

traffic-safetyroad-wayssignalscrosswalksenforcementtown-centershopping-center
✓ Decided: Committee votes unanimously to keep Tuttle Lane plan unchanged

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee approved the September 23 and October 2 meeting minutes with unanimous votes. It voted 4‑0 to keep the current Tuttle Lane traffic mitigation plan as is. The Elm Ridge at Great Road lighting item was tabled for future review. The meeting was adjourned with a 3‑0 vote.

Tue Oct 21, 2025

Planning Board

Board will vote on a letter approving Stow’s Local Option Real Estate Transfer Fee.

The Planning Board will review the Draft Lower Village Design Guidelines and discuss Section 3A Multifamily Zoning for MBTA communities. It will vote to approve a letter that adopts the town’s Local Option Real Estate Transfer Fee. The board will also consider a request for a minor modification of cottages at Wandering Pond on Athens Street.

zoninghousingfeesdesign-guidelinescommunity-development
✓ Decided: Planning Board approved letter supporting state real‑estate transfer fee legislation

The Board approved the minutes from the September 16 and September 30 meetings, each by a 3‑yea vote. It approved an amended letter urging state legislation that would allow a local option real‑estate transfer fee to fund affordable housing, also by a 3‑yea vote. The board postponed the decision on the minor modification of the Cottages at Wandering Pond until the November 4 meeting.

Mon Oct 20, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board of Assessors to discuss FY2026 recertification and tax exemptions

The Board of Assessors will meet to review invoices, meeting minutes, and tax warrants. The board will also provide an update on the FY2026 recertification process. An executive session is scheduled to discuss specific tax exemption applications and litigation.

taxesassessorsexemptionsrecertification
✓ Decided: Board approved $51,114.74 motor vehicle warrant for FY2026

The Stow Board of Assessors unanimously approved several invoices and financial commitments, including a $51,114.74 motor vehicle warrant. They also approved the assessment of a parcel listed as Owner Unknown for FY2026 and adopted the meeting minutes from September 16, 2025. The board received notice that the Department of Revenue approved the town's proposed assessed values for FY2026, which were posted for public review.

Mon Oct 20, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC holds public hearing on funding priorities and Community Preservation Plan

The Community Preservation Committee is holding its annual public hearing to gather feedback on the draft Community Preservation Plan and funding priorities. The committee will also review funding requests for conservation and historical preservation projects.

community-preservationconservationhistoric-preservationpublic-hearingbudget
✓ Decided: CPC approves park invoice, consultant hire and minutes at Oct 20 meeting

The Community Preservation Committee approved the October 6, 2025 meeting minutes. It authorized payment of a $3,809.10 invoice to Kay Park‑Rec Corp. for Gleasondale Pocket Park. The committee also approved using consultant funds to retain DM Berg Consultants for a West School structural assessment. An action was assigned for Becky to post the presentation online.

Thu Oct 16, 2025

Board of Health

Board of Health to review food truck permit and animal control hearing

The Stow Board of Health will meet remotely to review a food truck permit application and continue a hearing regarding an animal control bylaw violation. The meeting is scheduled for October 16, 2025.

board-of-healthfood-truckanimal-controlzoningremote-meeting
Tue Oct 14, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to consider 2026 license fees and General Obligation Bonds

The Select Board will meet to discuss the future of Common Road and review the Town Administrator's performance and FY26 goals. The board may vote on General Obligation Bonds and the setting of 2026 fees for Liquor, Common Victualer, and Class II licenses.

financelicensingroadspermitsadministration
✓ Decided: Select Board approved $10.05 M general‑obligation bond sale

The board unanimously approved the sale of $10,050,000 in general‑obligation bonds and related financing actions. It also granted special event permits for the Second Chance Holiday Decoration Sale and the Stow Gobbler 5K Run Walk, kept 2026 liquor, common victualer, and Class II auto‑sales license fees unchanged, and decided to maintain the one‑way plan for Common Road pending further data. Additionally, the board approved the Town Administrator’s performance review and adopted FY 26 goals.

Thu Oct 9, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Green Advisory Committee to discuss polystyrene article and community events

The Green Advisory Committee will review a draft polystyrene article and discuss participation in two upcoming community events. The body will also receive an update on the Climate Leaders Technical Support Grant.

environmentclimate-grantcommunity-outreachpolystyrene
✓ Decided: GAC approved participation in two community events and adjourned

The committee voted to support and attend the Hudson Light and Power open house on October 18. It also voted to support and attend the STOWcase event on October 23, partnering with Sustainable Stow. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote. No other decisions were made.

Thu Oct 9, 2025

Recreation Commission

Recreation Commission will discuss updates and approve minutes

The Stow Recreation Commission will hold a Zoom meeting to consider public comment, approve the minutes from the previous meeting, and receive updates on maintenance, the Gleasondale School lot, Randall Woods, and the Stowcase 2025 program. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

recreationcommunity-centerupdatesminutespublic-comment
Thu Oct 9, 2025

Board of Health

Board reviews variance request for 260 Great Road septic upgrade

The Stow Board of Health will consider a variance request to cover a leach field at 260 Great Road, proposing a 4.2‑foot cover over the field, submitted by Connorstone Engineering. The board will also hold a hearing on non‑compliance under the Stow Animal Control Bylaw. Additional agenda items include updates on the plastic bag ban, vaccine clinics, the Stowcase project, and routine business.

septic-upgradeanimal-controlplastic-bag-banvaccine-clinicsstowcase-project
Thu Oct 9, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Stow COA to elect officers and review outreach programs

The Stow Council on Aging Board will meet to accept September minutes, review outreach worker reports, and schedule the election of board officers. The meeting will be held at the Community Center on Great Road.

council-on-agingminuteman-senior-servicesoutreachboard-electionscommunity-center
✓ Decided: Board officers remain in their current positions (unanimous vote)

The board accepted the September 11, 2025 minutes as written. A roll‑call vote kept all current officers in place with a unanimous result. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

Thu Oct 9, 2025

Historical Commission

Commission will receive an update on the Boon Monument project.

The Stow Historical Commission will hear the Treasurer's financial report and discuss recent building permits. Members will receive updates on the Community Preservation Commission, Stow's Artifacts, and the West School. An update on the Boon Monument project will be presented, and new members will be introduced. The meeting will also include a correspondence review.

historical-preservationfinancebuilding-permitsmonumentcommunity
✓ Decided: Commission approved $500,000 roof stabilization notice and DM Berg inspection

The commission unanimously approved a motion for DM Berg Engineering to inspect the West School and provide a design example. It also unanimously supported submitting a notice of interest for CPA funding with an estimated project cost of $500,000. All other routine motions, including approval of minutes, the treasurer’s report, and adjournment, passed unanimously.

Tue Oct 7, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to review October 27 Special Town Meeting Warrant

The Select Board will discuss the Multifamily Housing Overlay District article and review the warrant for the October 27 Special Town Meeting. The board will also consider appointments and special event permits.

housingtown-meetingappointmentspermitsliquor-license
✓ Decided: Board approved Special Town Meeting warrant articles 1‑4,5‑8 for Oct 27 meeting

The Select Board unanimously approved the Special Town Meeting warrant articles 1 through 4 and 7 and 8, and also approved articles 5 and 6. It appointed Mark Guerin as Fire Captain and granted a special event permit and a one‑day liquor license. The board also approved a democracy statement and a related letter, with the letter passing 4‑1.

Tue Oct 7, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Library Director resigns, board to discuss next steps

The Randall Library Board will hear a report of the Library Director's resignation and consider next steps for filling the position. The board will also review proposals for a Stowcase table and tote bag sales, update on the grand opening, and discuss a letter to the Traffic Safety Board. Additional reports include updates from the building committee, Revitalize program, and treasurer.

librarypersonneleventscommunitygovernance
✓ Decided: Board unanimously recommended an internal candidate as interim library director

The trustees approved donating a tote bag to the Friends group. They unanimously voted to recommend an internal candidate for the interim library director position. An extra meeting was scheduled for October 21 to select the search committee and discuss the job posting and reopening timeline. The minutes were accepted as corrected and the meeting was adjourned.

Tue Oct 7, 2025

Conservation Commission

Commission will vote on the Special Fall Town Meeting Community Preservation Fund warrant.

The Stow Conservation Commission will consider several public hearings, including a notice of intent for a single‑family addition and dock at 64 Pine Point Road and a 26‑unit conservation development at 33 & 45 Walcott Street. The commission will also vote on a "Section 3A" zoning amendment for multifamily housing in MBTA communities. Additional actions include approving minutes, voting on the Community Preservation Fund warrant article, and discussing an encroachment issue at 7 Sylvan Drive.

zoningdevelopmentconservationhousingfinancepublic-hearings
✓ Decided: Commission unanimously approved $150,000 wetland‑restoration funding for Randall Woods Park

The Stow Conservation Commission approved the September 16 minutes and adopted a warrant article allocating $150,000 from the Community Preservation Fund for wetland restoration at Randall Woods Park. It also approved Certificates of Compliance for 80 Gleasondale Road and 73 Crescent Street, closed the public hearing on 64 Pine Point Road, and moved the public hearing for the Walcott Street development to November 18. All motions passed unanimously.

Mon Oct 6, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

Special permit public hearing for 64 Pine Point Road will be considered

The Stow Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on October 6, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at 380 Great Road, with a Zoom option for remote attendance. The board will hold a public hearing on a special permit application for 64 Pine Point Road. It will also hear a variance request for 20 October Lane, continuing from the September 8, 2025 meeting. In addition, the board will review Section 3.2.2.5 of the Zoning Bylaw and handle routine administrative items.

zoningpermitsvariancebylawpublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Board granted special permit for 64 Pine Point Road

The Zoning Board approved the September 8, 2025 minutes and waived the notice of public hearing for 64 Pine Point Road. It then granted a special permit for that property and approved the accompanying decision. The Board accepted the petition to withdraw the variance request for 20 October Lane and postponed any action on the kennel bylaw. The meeting was adjourned.

Mon Oct 6, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee will vote on Special Town Meeting warrant articles

The Stow Finance Committee will hold a public hearing on the Special Town Meeting warrant. After the hearing, the committee will vote on the warrant articles. The meeting will also include Town Administrator updates, an appointment to the Community Preservation Committee, and routine approvals of minutes and committee reports.

financespecial-town-meetingpublic-hearingappointmentsminutes
✓ Decided: Finance Committee unanimously approved all seven warrant articles and a new CP committee rep

The Stow Finance Committee recommended and approved rescinding $51,000 of excess borrowing authority for the Lower Village Roadway Project, funding for PFAS remediation, a $10,000 budget transfer for the Assistant Town Administrator, $150,000 for Randall Woods Park preservation, zoning changes to comply with the MBTA Communities Act, nonunion wage‑scale adjustments, and expanded employee benefits. The committee also nominated Angela Zhang as its representative on the Community Preservation Committee. All motions passed unanimously.

Mon Oct 6, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

Public hearing will review the draft Community Preservation Committee plan

The Stow Community Preservation Committee will approve the September 15, 2025 minutes, receive updates on the Gleasondale Pocket Park project, discuss a Freedom’s Way flyer, get a Capital Committee update, and hold a public hearing to review the draft CPC plan.

community-preservationpublic-hearingplanningparkscapital-committee
✓ Decided: Committee approved September 15 minutes and adjourned the meeting

The Community Preservation Committee approved the September 15, 2025 minutes with five votes in favor and one abstention. The committee then voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting. No other formal actions were taken.

Thu Oct 2, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Committee will draft a letter to permanently close Common Road

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will discuss preparing a draft letter to the Select Board requesting the permanent closure of Common Road. No vote or final decision is indicated; the agenda item is limited to drafting the letter.

traffic-safetyroadsinfrastructure
✓ Decided: TSAC votes unanimously to keep Library Hill Road open

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee voted 4-0 to not close Library Hill Road, keeping the prior proposal unchanged. The motion was seconded by Public Works Director Dan Rowley and supported by all members. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

Tue Sep 30, 2025

Planning Board

Approval of Auto Service & Tire Repair Shop special permit at 124 Great Road

The Stow Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a special permit and site plan for an auto service and tire repair shop at 124 Great Road. Afterward the board will review a comprehensive plan update, vote on a minor modification request for cottages at Wandering Pond on Athens Street, consider an active‑adult neighborhood special permit, and discuss support for a local‑option real estate transfer fee to fund affordable housing. The meeting also includes liaison reports, a planning director’s report, and public input.

zoningpermitsaffordable-housingplanningdevelopment
✓ Decided: Board approves minor water system modification for Cottages at Wandering Pond

The Planning Board voted unanimously to deem and approve a minor modification to the water system for the Cottages at Wandering Pond project. The board also moved to continue the Auto Service & Tire Repair Shop special permit hearing without testimony to November 18, 2025. Members were assigned to finalize outreach materials for the Section 3A multifamily zoning effort, and the board expressed interest in learning more about a state bill for a local real‑estate transfer fee to fund affordable housing.

Mon Sep 29, 2025

Comprehensive Plan Committee

Committee will vote to recommend Comprehensive Plan revisions to Planning Board

The committee will review the final revisions to the town’s Comprehensive Plan. After review, members will vote on whether to recommend the revisions to the Planning Board for approval.

comprehensive-planplanningzoning
Wed Sep 24, 2025

Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

Review of Bird Meadow Project grant terms and RFP finalization

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will review and approve meeting minutes. Trustees will discuss the MBTA Communities/3A issue with the Planning Department. The board will examine the Bird Meadow Project documents, including the Community Preservation Committee grant agreement terms and the finalization of the Request for Proposal.

affordable-housingplanninggrantsprocurementmeeting
✓ Decided: SMAHT approves multiple expense payments and drafts support letter for zoning change

The board approved the minutes from the May 7 meeting. It authorized payments for legal notices, software, and invoicing. Trustees voted to draft a letter supporting the upcoming zoning change on October 27. The meeting was then adjourned.

Tue Sep 23, 2025

Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

SMAHT will hold a Bird Meadow site visit for potential respondents

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will conduct a site visit to the Bird Meadow parcel, touring the property and fielding questions from potential respondents. After the visit, the meeting will adjourn.

affordable-housingsite-visithousing-trust
Tue Sep 23, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Discuss traffic and detour concerns for the Gleasondale Road gas project

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will meet to discuss traffic and detour concerns related to the Gleasondale Road gas project. It will consider a new request for traffic enforcement on Maple Street and receive updates on existing requests for enforcement on Garner Road and Harvard Road, a crosswalk at Johnston Way and Great Road, and a slow‑children sign at Hickory Lane and Boxboro Road. The committee will also review entrance and exit patterns at the Stow Shopping Center. No decisions are indicated; the items are for discussion and updates.

traffic-safetyenforcementcrosswalksdetoursshopping-centergas-project
✓ Decided: TSAC approved sending a letter to close Common Road permanently

The committee unanimously accepted the amended minutes from August 26, 2025. It voted 3‑0 to approve a letter to the Select Board requesting the permanent closure of Common Road. Members discussed adding a speed‑limit sign on Maple Street, with installation slated for the week. The committee also decided to keep the slow‑children sign issue on the agenda for next month and to have DPW draft a traffic‑flow concept for the Stow Shopping Center entrance and exit.

Tue Sep 23, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to review Town Administrator's performance and accomplishments

The Select Board will discuss and potentially vote on a project proposal from Eagle Scout Jill Valentino and a special event permit for a Lions Club fundraiser. The board will also initiate the Town Administrator review process and evaluate accomplishments from September 1, 2024, to August 30, 2025.

town-administrationpermitspersonnel-reviewcommunity-events
✓ Decided: Board approved Eagle Scout project to improve Boon Monument access

The Select Board unanimously approved a certificate of appreciation for retiring Conservation Director Kathy Sferra and approved Jill Valentino's Eagle Scout project to create a gravel path, clean, and sign the Boon Monument. The board also unanimously tabled the Stow Lions Club toll‑booth fundraiser pending alternative locations, and approved the standard Town Administrator annual review process. All motions passed unanimously.

Thu Sep 18, 2025

Economic Development and Industrial Commission

EDIC to consider new project review process and discuss Masters Academy partnership

The Economic Development and Industrial Commission will elect officers, review and approve minutes, and consider correspondence. Commissioners may vote on creating a project review, approval, prioritization, and management process. They will also review and prioritize ongoing or requested projects, discuss forming work groups for project completion, and consider matters related to Masters Academy and USA Fencing. The meeting will conclude with a review of the strategic plan and next steps.

economic-developmentindustrialprojectsstrategic-planmasters-academyusa-fencinggovernance
✓ Decided: EDIC set priorities for a new business strategic plan and formed working groups

The commission approved the June meeting minutes and re‑elected Andrew Crosby as Chair and Ginny Powell as Clerk unanimously. It prioritized a three‑part strategic plan for business development, created a Business Outreach Working Group and a Business Guide working group, and assigned members to gather business data and liaise with town committees. The commission also agreed to continue discussions with Masters Academy and to explore partnership opportunities.

Thu Sep 18, 2025

Capital Planning Committee

Capital Planning Committee to discuss Stow Acres Wetlands Project

The Capital Planning Committee will meet to discuss and provide a recommendation regarding a Special Town Meeting Warrant article. The focus of the meeting is the Stow Acres Wetlands Project.

capital-planningwetlandsstow-acrestown-warrant
✓ Decided: Capital Planning Committee unanimously approves prior minutes and a new motion

The committee approved the minutes from the April 17 and May 10 meetings, each with a unanimous vote. A subsequent motion presented by Patuto and Toole was also approved unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

Tue Sep 16, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board will discuss personal exemption, Chapterland applications, and tax litigation

The Board of Assessors will review FY2026 personal exemption applications, FY2027 Chapterland applications, and updates on pending Appellate Tax Board litigation. Other agenda items include routine matters such as invoices, meeting minutes, and motor vehicle excise, boat, real estate and personal property warrants and reports. The meeting may also include an executive session before adjournment.

exemptionschapterlandtax-litigationassessmentsfinance
✓ Decided: Board approves $6,576.18 Vision recertification invoice

The Board of Assessors approved three invoices: Vision recertification for $6,576.18, Real Estate Research Consultants for $4,000, and a Motor Vehicle Abatement Report for $1,149.66. All motions were made by Thomas Ryan, seconded by Leonard Golder, and passed with all members in favor. The August 12, 2025 meeting minutes were also approved unanimously. The board then entered an executive session to discuss FY2026 personal exemption applications, FY2027 Chapterland applications, and pending abatement litigation.

Tue Sep 16, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board will hear and decide on Hemenway Farm subdivision permit

The board will hold a public hearing at 7:15 PM for the Hemenway Farm definitive subdivision and planned conservation development special permit and site‑plan approval, located off Walcott Street, Assessor’s Map R‑1 Parcel 64A. The meeting will also discuss proposed zoning bylaw amendments to adopt a Multifamily Housing Overlay District, which is slated for a vote at the October 27 Special Town Meeting. Routine items include review of minutes, liaison reports, and the Planning Director’s report. Public input will be invited during the hearing.

zoningdevelopmentpublic-hearinghousingplanning-board
✓ Decided: Board waived reading of Hemenway Farm public hearing notice

The Planning Board voted unanimously to waive the reading of the public hearing notice for the Hemenway Farm subdivision project. The Board also agreed to add a discussion about a potential rooster ordinance to a future agenda. Future meeting dates were set for November 4 & 18 and December 9 & 16, 2025.

Tue Sep 16, 2025

Conservation Commission

Commission reviews cottage plan change and new house/dock at North Shore

The Stow Conservation Commission will consider several items, including a request to amend the approved cottage plan at Wandering Pond, a notice of intent for a single‑family house and dock at 0 North Shore Drive, a red‑line change for storm‑damaged tree removal on Maple Street Lot 17C, and comments on Hemenway Farm to be forwarded to the Planning Board. The commission will also approve the meeting minutes and provide staff updates.

zoninghousingwaterfronttreesplanning
✓ Decided: Commission approved Order of Conditions for 0 North Shore Drive project

The Stow Conservation Commission approved the red‑line changes for Maple Street Lot 17C and for the Cottages at Wandering Pond, both unanimously. It also approved the Order of Conditions for the 0 North Shore Drive single‑family house, dock and associated work by a 5‑0‑1 vote. The public hearing for 0 North Shore Drive was closed unanimously.

Mon Sep 15, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

Stow CPC to review new applications and project status

The Stow Community Preservation Committee will meet to review a new application, approve minutes from August 4, 2025, and discuss the CPA Project Status List. The meeting will also include committee reports and correspondence.

cpcstowmeetingagendaproject-statusminutescorrespondence
✓ Decided: Committee approved $20,000 for West Schoolhouse roof design work

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from August 4, 2025. It agreed to use $20,000 from the consultant budget for West Schoolhouse roof stabilization design, staying below the $10,000‑$15,000 bidding threshold. The public hearing for the CPC plan was scheduled for October 20, and the word “design” will be added to the Capital Committee flyer.

Thu Sep 11, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Committee will vote to approve payment of invoices for Constant Contact and Mass Energize

The Stow Green Advisory Committee will meet on September 11, 2025 to discuss several agenda items. The meeting includes reviewing minutes from the August 14 meeting, approving payment of invoices for Constant Contact and Mass Energize, and updates on community outreach and a heat pump initiative. Additional items are a draft polystyrene article, a draft outreach presentation, and new business.

budgetcommunity-outreachenvironmentheat-pumpscommunications
Thu Sep 11, 2025

Board of Health

Board of Health to review MBTA Communities Act housing and local variances

The Board of Health will hear a presentation from the Planning Director regarding zoning and multifamily housing for the MBTA Communities Act. The board will also consider specific property requests and animal control violations.

zoninghousingmbta-communities-actpublic-healthanimal-control
Thu Sep 11, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Stow Council on Aging to elect board officers

The Stow Council on Aging Board will review minutes, receive reports from liaisons and outreach workers, and schedule the election of board officers for November 2025.

council-on-agingboard-meetingelectionsminuteman-senior-servicessocial-workercommunity-preservation
✓ Decided: Council on Aging Board met, provided updates but made no formal decisions

The Board reviewed minutes, received reports from the Community Preservation Committee, Minuteman Senior Services, Elizabeth Brook Apartments, and the Director. Members discussed staffing changes, upcoming events, and volunteer needs, but no motions were approved, denied, or tabled. No votes or formal decisions were recorded.

Tue Sep 9, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to hold hearing on Multifamily Housing Overlay District

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding zoning bylaw amendments for a Multifamily Housing Overlay District. This proposal aims to comply with the MBTA Communities Act and is intended for the October 27, 2025 Special Town Meeting.

zoninghousingmbta-communitiesbylaws
✓ Decided: Planning Board approved minutes, waived notice reading, and closed hearing

The Stow Planning Board waived the reading of the public hearing notice, approved the minutes of the August 19, 2025 meeting, and moved to close the public hearing. All motions passed with each member voting yea. No substantive zoning or bylaw decisions were made.

Mon Sep 8, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

Zoning Board of Appeals to hear three public hearings on land-use variances and special permits

The Stow Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct three public hearings on land-use requests: a continued variance for 20 October Lane, and special permits for 0 North Shore Drive and 156 Barton Road. The board will also review and discuss proposed changes to Section 3.2.2.5 of the Zoning Bylaw. The meeting is open to in-person and online attendance.

zoningpublic-hearingvariancespecial-permitzoning-bylaw
✓ Decided: Board grants special permits for 0 North Shore Drive and 156 Barton Road

The Zoning Board approved a special permit for a four‑bedroom dwelling at 0 North Shore Drive, adding a condition that the applicant submit a final site plan. It also approved a special permit for a carport at 156 Barton Road, conditioning the decision on a health‑board review of the nearby well. Additionally, the Board continued the public hearing on the 20 October Lane variance to Oct. 6, 2025.

Thu Sep 4, 2025

Historical Commission

Stow Historical Commission to meet September 4

The Stow Historical Commission will meet to review reports and discuss several local projects. The agenda includes items regarding the West School and an Eagle Scout project.

historical-commissionstowcommunity-preservationlocal-history
✓ Decided: Commission unanimously approved support for Boon Monument path project

The Stow Historical Commission approved the meeting minutes and the treasurer’s report, both unanimously. It voted to support the Eagle Scout’s clearing and landscaping work for the Boon Monument path. The commission also approved the Historical Preservation section of the Community Preservation Plan. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

Tue Sep 2, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Randall Library Trustees to vote on bylaws and sustainability and lending policies

The Board of Trustees will hold second readings and votes on bylaws, a sustainability policy, and a reciprocal lending policy. The board will also discuss the permanent closing of Common Road and the potential movement of the library's bank account.

librarybylawspolicybankingroads
✓ Decided: Board approves $10K transfer, adopts by‑laws and policies

The trustees unanimously approved moving $10,000 from the Bartholomew investment account to the checking account. They also unanimously adopted revised by‑laws, the Sustainability Policy, and the Reciprocal Lending Policy. The August meeting minutes were accepted and the meeting was adjourned.

Tue Sep 2, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission to hold hearings on residential and trust projects

The Stow Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding property work and invasive species removal. The body will also discuss pond performance standards and community preservation plan revisions.

conservationinvasive-specieszoningenvironmentpublic-hearings
✓ Decided: Commission unanimously issued Certificate of Compliance for Elizabeth Brook Apartments

The Stow Conservation Commission approved the minutes from August 19, 2025. It issued a Certificate of Compliance for the Elizabeth Brook Apartments (DEP#299-699) and approved an amended Order of Conditions for 164 Barton Road (DEP#299-751). The Commission also accepted recommended changes to the Community Preservation Plan and issued an Order of Conditions for 29 Lowell Drive. A hearing for 0 North Shore Drive was continued to September 16, 2025.

Tue Aug 26, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to consider appointment of Assistant Town Administrator

The Select Board will meet to discuss the appointment of Robert Maynard as Assistant Town Administrator. The board will also consider special event permits and licenses for upcoming community events.

appointmentsspecial-eventsliquor-licensetown-administrationlocal-government
✓ Decided: Board unanimously appoints Robert Maynard as Assistant Town Administrator

The Select Board appointed Robert Maynard as Assistant Town Administrator through June 30, 2026. It also approved the Ride to Defeat ALS bike ride, granted a special event permit, a one‑day liquor license, and an entertainment license for the Lions Autumn Food Truck Festival, and changed the first November meeting date to November 4, 2025.

Tue Aug 26, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to review road signs and intersection safety

The committee will discuss several traffic safety requests, including new signage and paving. Members will also review traffic data for White Pond Road and access patterns at the Stow Shopping Center.

traffic-safetyroadssignagepublic-safety
✓ Decided: Traffic Safety Advisory Committee approved amended minutes unanimously

The committee approved the July 22, 2025 minutes as amended with a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous 4‑0 vote. No other formal actions were taken.

Mon Aug 25, 2025

Local Access Channel Advisory Committee

Local Access Channel Advisory Committee to discuss staff compensation budget

The Local Access Channel Advisory Committee will meet to discuss budget changes regarding staff compensation. The committee will also review the role and responsibilities of the LACAC.

budgetstaff-compensationlocal-access-channel
Tue Aug 19, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board reviews MBTA multifamily zoning and public hearing notices

The Stow Planning Board will hold its regular August meeting online to review minutes, correspondence, and public input. The main action item is a discussion of Section 3A Multifamily Zoning requirements under the MBTA Communities law. Several public hearing notices from other town boards are also listed for informational purposes.

zoningmbta-communitiespublic-hearingconservationplanning-board
✓ Decided: Board unanimously chose to place multifamily dimensional rules in main table

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the August 5, 2025 meeting. Members voted unanimously to include the multifamily zoning dimensional requirements in the main dimensional table rather than only in the overlay district section. The board also adopted a motion to adjourn and agreed to revisit basement‑calculation and short‑term‑rental issues at a future meeting.

Tue Aug 19, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission to hear three public hearings on barn, septic, and invasive species

The Stow Conservation Commission will hold three public hearings on August 19, 2025, via Zoom. Items include a barn and pavilion construction request at 17 Militia Circle, a septic replacement notice at 40 Walcott Street, and an invasive species removal notice at 0 South Acton Road. The commission will also discuss and act on several items, including approving minutes, ratifying an emergency permit for a beaver dam breaching project, and reviewing requests for red line changes to approved plans.

conservationpublic-hearingzoningsepticinvasive-speciesemergency-permittree-removal
✓ Decided: Commission unanimously ratified emergency permit to breach Beaver Dam on Potash Brook

The Stow Conservation Commission unanimously approved the July 17, 2025 minutes, ratified an emergency permit to breach the Beaver Dam on Potash Brook, and approved red‑line changes for 63 Kingland Road, 34 Davis, Stow Acres, and 105 Barton. It also issued a Negative 3 Determination with a condition for the barn and pavilion at 17 Militia Circle, adopted an Order of Conditions for a septic replacement at 40 Walcott Street, extended the public hearing for the Stow Conservation Trust invasive‑species project to September 2, 2025, and approved the Masters Academy turf operation and maintenance plan.

Mon Aug 18, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

Zoning Board of Appeals to continue public hearing for 20 October Lane

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to conduct a continued public hearing regarding a variance request. The discussion focuses on the property located at 20 October Lane.

zoningvariancepublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Board voted to continue the variance hearing to September 8, 2025

The board voted to designate both the 294.86‑ft and 158.90‑ft lines as rear property lines. After further discussion, members voted to keep the public hearing open and continue it on September 8, 2025 at 7:05 pm. The meeting was then adjourned. No final decision on the variance was made.

Mon Aug 18, 2025

Cultural Council

Stow Cultural Council to vote on June minutes and set September reception

The Stow Cultural Council will meet to review and vote on the June 9, 2025 minutes, confirm 2025-2026 funding priorities, and plan a September 18, 2025 grantee reception. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.

artscultural-councilfundingpublic-meetingzoom
✓ Decided: Council approved prior minutes, kept funding priorities unchanged, and adjourned

The Cultural Council approved the June 9, 2025 meeting minutes with one abstention. It unanimously approved keeping the 2025‑2026 funding priorities unchanged. The motion to end the meeting at 7:40 pm was also approved unanimously.

Mon Aug 18, 2025

Public Hearing - Tree Cutting 129 Red Acre Rd

Public hearing for removal of two public shade trees at 129 Red Acre Rd

The Stow Tree Warden is holding a public hearing to consider objections to the removal of two public shade trees. The request was made by the abutting property owner.

tree-cuttingpublic-hearingpublic-works
Mon Aug 18, 2025

Comprehensive Plan Committee

Comprehensive Plan Committee to review draft plan

The committee will meet to review the Draft Comprehensive Plan. The body will also review previous meeting minutes and reschedule the September meeting.

planningcomprehensive-planstow
✓ Decided: Committee approved July minutes and will reschedule September meeting

The committee approved the minutes of the July 21, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. Members agreed to add a short description for each Core Theme in the Vision and Common Thread chapter of the draft Comprehensive Plan. The committee decided to have staff reschedule the September 15, 2025 meeting to a later date. A final public comment period will run through September 8, 2025 before the plan is recommended for adoption.

Thu Aug 14, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Stow Green Advisory Committee to discuss community outreach and plastic bag initiative

The Stow Green Advisory Committee will review minutes from its July meeting, discuss community outreach groups, and review a draft presentation. Members will also address next steps after a recent plastic bag article and receive an update on a Stow/Hudson heat pump initiative.

green-committeecommunity-outreachplastic-bag-initiativeheat-pumpstow
✓ Decided: GAC approved July 10, 2025 minutes with a 3-0 vote

The Green Advisory Committee approved the meeting minutes from July 10, 2025 by a 3‑0 vote. The committee also discussed outreach strategies, a draft polystyrene bylaw, and a heat‑pump initiative, but no additional actions were decided.

Thu Aug 14, 2025

Board of Health

Board of Health to review sewage system upgrades and new well proposal

The Board of Health will consider local upgrade approvals and variances for sewage systems at two properties. The board will also review a proposed new well and discuss PFAS updates and vaccine clinics.

sewagewater-qualitypublic-healthpfasvaccines
Wed Aug 13, 2025

Recreation Commission

Stow Recreation Commission meets Aug 13 to review summer programs and facility updates

The Stow Recreation Commission will convene on August 13, 2025, via Zoom to discuss maintenance updates, recap summer programs, and receive reports on projects including Platypus, Randall Woods, and Master Academy. The meeting also includes a public comment period and approval of prior minutes.

recreationpublic-commentmaintenancesummer-programszoom-meeting
✓ Decided: Commission unanimously approved June 11 minutes and set next meeting for Sep 17

The Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting unanimously. They scheduled the next commission meeting for September 17, 2025. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion. No other substantive actions were decided.

Tue Aug 12, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board of Assessors to review tax warrants and FY2026 personal exemptions

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss and vote on invoices, meeting minutes, and tax reports. The session includes a review of warrants and commitments for motor vehicle, boat, real estate, and personal property taxes. An executive session is scheduled to discuss FY2026 personal exemption applications.

taxesassessorsexemptionsmunicipal-finance
✓ Decided: Board approved vision recertification and motor vehicle fee commitments

The Stow Board of Assessors unanimously approved the Vision recertification costing $7,100.10. The meeting minutes from 7/15/2025 were approved as amended. The FY2026 motor vehicle excise commitment of $53,564.33 was approved. The July 2025 motor vehicle abatement reports totaling $2,830.26 were also approved.

Tue Aug 12, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Randall Library Trustees to discuss policies and grand opening ideas

The Board of Trustees will review the FY2025 financial report and discuss several new policies. The board is also brainstorming event ideas for a grand opening and reviewing a letter regarding the permanent closure of Common Road.

librarypolicyfinancepublic-works
✓ Decided: Trustees unanimously approved FY2025 financial report and recent minutes

The board approved the FY2025 financial report so it can be submitted to the town. They also accepted the revised June minutes and the May and July minutes, each by unanimous vote. A working group of Morgan, Mark, and Barbie was created to plan a grand‑opening gala with Revitalize participants. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

Thu Aug 7, 2025

Historical Commission

Stow Historical Commission to review projects and building permits

The Historical Commission will meet to review building permits and ongoing projects. The agenda includes discussions on Stows Artifacts and the West School.

historical-commissionbuilding-permitscommunity-preservationlocal-history
✓ Decided: Commission approved $200,000 for wetlands planning at Stow Acres

The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes and the treasurer’s report. The Community Preservation Committee approved a $200,000 request for planning to restore wetlands at Stow Acres. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Tue Aug 5, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to hold hearings on site plans for Old Bolton Road and Great Road

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings for a detached accessory apartment and an auto service shop. The board will also review design guidelines for the Lower Village Business District and discuss multifamily zoning.

zoningsite-planhousingbusiness-districtpublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Planning Board approves accessory apartment site plan at 119 Old Bolton Road

The Board approved the site‑plan approval for a detached accessory apartment at 119 Old Bolton Road after waiving the public‑hearing notice and closing the hearing. It also approved the minutes of the July 8 and July 15 meetings. The Board voted to continue the public hearing for the auto service and tire‑repair shop at 124 Great Road to September 30, 2025. No other substantive actions were taken.

Mon Aug 4, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

Zoning Board of Appeals to hold public hearing for 20 October Lane

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding a variance application for 20 October Lane. The board will also review administrative items and correspondence.

zoningpublic-hearingvariance
✓ Decided: Board defers property‑line decision and schedules next hearing for Aug 18

The Zoning Board approved the June 2, 2025 minutes (5‑0). It waived the reading of the public‑hearing notice (5‑0). The Board deferred a determination on the property‑line classification until a site visit can be made and moved the public hearing to August 18, 2025 at 7:00 pm (5‑0). The meeting was adjourned at 8:06 pm (5‑0).

Mon Aug 4, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC to discuss Randall Woods Park warrant article

The Community Preservation Committee will review a warrant article for a Randall Woods Park application. The committee will also vote on Notice of Interest of Funding and Final Applications.

parkscommunity-preservationfundingtown-meeting
✓ Decided: Committee approved the revised Notice of Interest and Final Application for the coming year

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from July 21, 2025. It voted to postpone discussion of open projects and bucket balances until the fiscal year ends. The members adopted a provision requiring economic criteria for private historic‑property preservation and will create evaluation criteria before the next deadline. They also approved using and distributing the revised Notice of Interest and Final Application for the upcoming year.

Tue Jul 29, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to consider permits for Lake Boon Water Carnival and film production

The Select Board will discuss and potentially vote on a special event permit for the Lake Boon Water Carnival and a film permit application for the movie Super Troopers 3.

permitseventsfilmingrecreation
✓ Decided: Board unanimously approved Lake Boon carnival and Super Troopers 3 film permits

The Select Board voted unanimously to grant a special event permit for the Lake Boon Water Carnival on August 23, 2025, pending receipt of the liability insurance certificate. The Board also voted unanimously to approve a film permit for the production of FGIM3 (Super Troopers 3) at the Sudbury Road bridge, with specified safety and notification conditions. Both decisions were recorded in the July 29, 2025 meeting minutes.

Wed Jul 23, 2025

Open Space Committee

Stow Open Space Committee to elect leadership and update planning

The committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair and appoint Vin Antil as the Community Preservation Committee Representative. Members will also receive updates on the Open Space and Recreation Plan, the Comprehensive Plan, and the Conservation Department.

open-spaceplanningconservationappointments
✓ Decided: Open Space Committee appoints new chair, vice chair and CPC representative

The committee approved the June meeting minutes unanimously. It elected Bill Maxfield as chair, Laurie Burnett as vice‑chair, and named Meg Costello to compile minutes. Members also appointed Vin Antil as the town’s representative to the Community Preservation Committee, with unanimous support. The meeting was then adjourned.

Tue Jul 22, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Committee to discuss traffic safety requests and a new rumble strip policy

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will review resident requests for traffic enforcement and new infrastructure. The body will also consider a temporary rumble strip policy and a recommendation to permanently close a portion of Common Road.

traffic-safetyroadspublic-safetyinfrastructure
✓ Decided: Committee approved rumble strip policy and crosswalk estimate motions

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee approved the rumble strip policy as written and voted to have Chief Sallese coordinate an estimate for a crosswalk and blinking lights at Johnston Way. It also approved a preliminary estimate for a traffic‑engineer review of the Garner and Harvard Road intersection. All motions passed unanimously.

Mon Jul 21, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC to review wetland restoration design for Randall Woods Park

The Community Preservation Committee will discuss a CPA application for the Conservation Department regarding Randall Woods Park (Stow Acres). The body will also review a dues invoice and initial funding applications.

conservationparkswetlandsfunding
✓ Decided: CPC recommends $150K wetland restoration design for Town Meeting

The Community Preservation Committee voted unanimously to recommend a $150,000 CPA funding application for the Randall Woods Park Wetland Restoration Design to the October Special Town Meeting. The committee also approved a $3,500 invoice for annual dues to the Community Preservation Coalition and reviewed a draft application form, making suggestions for clarity. No other substantive decisions were made.

Mon Jul 21, 2025

Comprehensive Plan Committee

Committee to review draft content and layout for Comprehensive Plan

The Comprehensive Plan Committee will review draft content, including the vision, core themes, goals, and strategies. Members will also discuss graphic layout options and alternative analysis methods for the plan.

comprehensive-planzoningtown-planning
✓ Decided: Committee recommends Zoning Bylaw Audit for post‑plan work

The committee approved the minutes from the June 16 meeting unanimously. After reviewing the draft Comprehensive Plan, members voted to recommend that the remaining grant funds be used for a Zoning Bylaw Audit. The meeting was then closed by unanimous vote.

Tue Jul 15, 2025

Board of Assessors

Stow Board of Assessors to discuss tax warrants and board reorganization

The Board of Assessors will meet to review invoices and meeting minutes. The body is scheduled to discuss and vote on warrants, commitments, and reports regarding motor vehicle excise, boat, real estate, and personal property taxes.

taxesassessorsgovernment-administration
✓ Decided: Board approved multiple expense items and reports, including $4,461.37 vehicle abatement

The Board approved several expense items, including a $100 recertification fee, a $259 USPAP course reimbursement, $93 membership dues, and a $3,000 mapping contract, all by unanimous vote. It also approved the Motor Vehicle Abatement Report for $4,461.37 and the June 2025 meeting minutes. All motions were made by Cindy Cummings and seconded as noted.

Tue Jul 15, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to review site plans for 63-65 White Pond Road

The Planning Board will discuss the Comprehensive Plan's alternative analyses and Section 3A Multifamily Zoning. The board is also considering the endorsement of site plans for several permits at 63-65 White Pond Road.

zoningsite-planshousingcomprehensive-planpermits
✓ Decided: Board endorses site plans for contractor’s yard at 63‑65 White Pond Road

The Planning Board approved moving the Auto Service & Tire Repair Shop hearing to August 5, 2025. It endorsed the site plans for the contractor’s yard at 63‑65 White Pond Road with a 3‑1 vote. The Board recommended that the remaining grant funds be used for a zoning‑bylaw audit in the Comprehensive Plan. The meeting was adjourned after setting future meeting dates for September 30 and October 21, 2025.

Tue Jul 15, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee to review year-end transfers

The Finance Committee will meet via Zoom to review and approve year-end transfers. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

financebudgettown-administration
Tue Jul 15, 2025

Local Access Channel Advisory Committee

Local Access Channel Advisory Committee to discuss FY26 budget changes

The committee will meet to review and discuss changes to the FY26 budget. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the April 4 meeting.

budgetlocal-access-channelstow-tv
✓ Decided: Committee approved April minutes and set up meeting on Stow TV changes

The Local Access Cable Advisory Committee unanimously approved the April 4, 2025 meeting minutes. A FY26 budget update noted a $27,892.68 addition to the MIIA Health Benefits Trust, but no vote was taken on the budget change. Members decided to schedule a meeting with the Town Administrator in early August to discuss recent Stow TV configuration changes, including converting the Director role to a staff position. Lisa Lavina will coordinate possible meeting times.

Tue Jul 15, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission to review wetland plans and driveway projects

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on driveway paving, septic system replacement, and a stream crossing. The body will also discuss a wetland restoration plan and a CPA funding request for Randall Woods Park/Stow Acres.

conservationwetlandszoningenvironmentpublic-works
✓ Decided: Conservation Commission approves multiple project changes and certifications

The Commission unanimously approved the June 17, 2025 minutes and approved redline changes that remove Lake Boon Dam viewing platforms and modify 0 Maple Street. It closed public hearings for 220 Taylor Road and 44 Red Acre Road, accepted a restoration plan for 165 South Acton Road, reappointed an associate member, and approved certificates of compliance for 0 South Acton Road. All actions were taken with unanimous roll‑call votes.

Thu Jul 10, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee to review year-end transfers

The Finance Committee will meet via Zoom to review and approve year-end transfers. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

budgetfinance
✓ Decided: Finance Committee approved $19,602 in year‑end transfers

The committee voted to approve the final year‑end transfers totaling $19,602 as presented by the Town Administrator. The motion was unanimously approved on a roll‑call vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a motion that was also approved.

Thu Jul 10, 2025

Historical Commission

Stow Historical Commission to discuss West School and 2026 organization

The Historical Commission will meet to review building permits and the treasurer's report. The body will discuss the West School, Stow artifacts, and committee organization for 2026.

historic-preservationbuilding-permitscommittee-organization
✓ Decided: Historical Commission approves minutes, treasurer report and retains officers

The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes and accepted the treasurer’s report as written. Members also voted to retain the same slate of officers for the upcoming year. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

Thu Jul 10, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Green Advisory Committee to discuss carbon sequestration and heat pump initiative

The Green Advisory Committee will meet to nominate leadership roles and review previous minutes. The body will discuss the integration of the CAP with the Comprehensive Plan and a carbon sequestration model.

environmentclimate-action-planenergycommunity-outreach
✓ Decided: GAC reappoints chair, vice chair and clerk unanimously

The Green Advisory Committee renewed its leadership: Arnie was reappointed as Chair, John Colonna‑Romano as Vice Chair, and John S. as Clerk, each with a 4‑0 vote. The committee also approved the minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting by a 4‑0 vote. No other motions were decided; the remainder of the agenda involved discussion of outreach, a future plastics bylaw, heat‑pump initiatives, and a website merger proposal.

Tue Jul 8, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to vote on two special event permits for August festivals

The Stow Select Board will discuss and possibly vote on two special event permits at its July 8 meeting: a bike ride fundraiser and a craft beer and food truck festival. The board will also hear updates from town committees and staff reports.

eventszoningroadsbudgetalcohol-licensing
✓ Decided: Board unanimously approved a one‑day ceremonial name change to Dunkin.

The Select Board unanimously approved permits and licenses for the Bike for the Woods ride and the Assabet Craft Beer & Food Truck Festival. It also approved a one‑day ceremonial renaming of Stow to “Dunkin” for the grand opening, removal of rumble strips on Sudbury Road, and the launch of the Hometown Heroes Program with a working group. Additionally, the board approved FY 2025 year‑end budget transfers. No motions were denied.

Tue Jul 8, 2025

Comprehensive Plan Committee

Committee to present draft Comprehensive Plan strategies

The Comprehensive Plan Committee will attend a joint meeting with the Select Board and Planning Board. The purpose of the meeting is to present draft strategies for the Comprehensive Plan.

comprehensive-planplanningtown-government
Tue Jul 8, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss Comprehensive Plan strategies and multifamily zoning

The Planning Board will hold a joint meeting with the Select Board and Comprehensive Plan Committee to discuss draft strategies for the town's Comprehensive Plan. The board will also review bylaws and guidelines regarding accessory apartments and the Lower Village Business District.

zoninghousingcomprehensive-planmbta-communitiesbusiness-district
✓ Decided: Planning Board approved Section 3A engagement summaries and set next steps

The Board approved the June 3 and June 17 meeting minutes unanimously. It approved the draft engagement summaries for the Section 3A zoning process. Members agreed to send any minor edits on the Lower Village Business District Design Guidelines to staff. The Board decided to wait for more information before acting on the Section 3A zoning requirement.

Mon Jul 7, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

Zoning Board to hold public hearing for 63 Kingland Road

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding a special permit for 63 Kingland Road. The board will also review administrative items and correspondence.

zoningspecial-permitpublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Zoning Board grants and approves special permit for 63 Kingland Road

The board approved the June 2, 2025 minutes with a 4‑0 vote. It then granted a special permit for demolition of the existing cottage and construction of a new dwelling at 63 Kingland Road, and approved the accompanying special permit decision, each with a 5‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned with a 5‑0 vote.

Tue Jul 1, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Randall Library Trustees to discuss building updates and grand opening ideas

The Board of Trustees will receive reports from the Library Director, Treasurer, and Building Committee. The board is scheduled to conduct an annual review of the Director and brainstorm ideas for a grand opening event.

librarypublic-buildingspersonnel-review
✓ Decided: Trustees unanimously approved June minutes and adjourned the meeting

At the July 1 meeting, the board voted to accept the June meeting minutes. The motion passed unanimously. The board then moved to adjourn, also unanimously. No other formal actions were taken.

Wed Jun 25, 2025

Open Space Committee

Open Space Committee to finalize Open Space and Recreation Action Plan

The Open Space Committee will meet to finalize revisions to the Open Space and Recreation Action Plan. The body will also review updates regarding the Comprehensive Plan and receive a report from the Conservation Department.

open-spacerecreationplanningconservation
✓ Decided: Open Space Committee approves May minutes and adopts plan revisions

The committee approved the May 2025 meeting minutes with a 5‑in‑favor vote and two abstentions. It voted to keep two Indigenous partnership items (2CA and 3C10) separate in the Comprehensive Plan and to add three new items (11 NEW, 12 NEW, 13 NEW). The revised Open Space and Recreation Plan sections 8 and 9 were accepted unanimously. Future meetings were scheduled for July 23 and September 10.

Tue Jun 24, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to review Town Hall reuse and approve $60,000 traffic bond

The Select Board will consider recommendations for the future use of the historic Town Hall and vote on several annual appointments. The body is also reviewing a request for fee increases for plumbing, gas, and electrical services.

town-halltrafficbudgetappointmentspermitspublic-safety
✓ Decided: Board approved $60,000 bond for Lower Village traffic improvements

The Select Board unanimously approved a $60,000 bond anticipation note to fund the Lower Village traffic improvements. It also approved increases to plumbing, gas and electrical fees effective July 1, 2025 and adopted a new fee structure for for‑profit use of Town Hall ($50 for the first two hours, $25 for each additional hour). The Board granted a special event permit for the “Polarized Guru – Funkopotamous” concert, reappointed several commission members, appointed police and fire personnel, and tabled a previously discussed letter on democracy.

Wed Jun 18, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Committee to discuss rumble strip removal on Sudbury Road

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee is meeting to review a draft letter to the Select Board regarding the removal of rumble strips on Sudbury Road.

traffic-safetyroadssudbury-road
✓ Decided: Committee approved draft letter recommending removal of Sudbury Road rumble strips

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee voted unanimously to approve a draft letter to the Select Board recommending removal of the temporary rumble strips on Sudbury Road. The letter is scheduled for discussion at the Select Board meeting on July 8. The committee also approved a motion to adjourn the meeting.

Tue Jun 17, 2025

Randall Library Building Committee 2.0

Library Building Committee to vote on furniture and fabric

The Randall Library Building Committee 2.0 will receive a construction update from designLAB. The committee is scheduled to review and vote on specific furniture pieces and fabric for the project.

libraryconstructionpublic-buildingsstow
Tue Jun 17, 2025

Randall Library Building Exterior Design Committee

Committee to vote on furniture and fabric for Randall Library

The Randall Library Building Exterior Design Committee will receive a construction update from designLAB. The committee is scheduled to review and vote on specific furniture pieces and fabric.

librarypublic-buildingsdesignstow
Tue Jun 17, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission to hold hearings on gas main and residential projects

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding several Notices of Intent and a Request for Determination of Applicability. The body will also vote on Certificates of Compliance and conduct internal reorganization.

conservationpublic-hearingsinfrastructurezoningenvironment
✓ Decided: Commission approved certificates of compliance for 78 Pine Point and Shepard Boardwalk

The Stow Conservation Commission approved certificates of compliance for 78 Pine Point and the Shepard Boardwalk. It also closed public hearings for NSTAR Gas on Gleasondale Road, 99 White Pond Road, 63 Kingland Road, and 424 Great Road. A motion was passed to continue the hearing for 42 Packard Road to July 15, 2025. Associate members were reappointed and committee representatives were confirmed.

Tue Jun 17, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board of Assessors to review tax warrants and board reorganization

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss and vote on tax warrants and commitments for motor vehicle excise, boat, real estate, and personal property. The board will also address Appellate Tax Board findings and the reorganization of the board.

taxesassessorsgovernment-administration
✓ Decided: Board approved FY2026 tax warrants: $17.688 M real estate, $0.196 M personal, $0.444 M CPA surcharge

The Board approved the meeting minutes and the FY2026 preliminary tax bills, including real estate, personal property, and CPA surcharge amounts. It also approved the May 2025 motor vehicle abatement report ($3,294.38) and the May 2025 boat excise report ($50). The Real Estate Abatements Report for May FY2024 ($1,188.57) was signed, and the discussion on board reorganization was tabled. The meeting was adjourned at 8:03 PM.

Tue Jun 17, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss MBTA multifamily zoning and village design guidelines

The Planning Board will review design guidelines for the Lower Village Business District and discuss Section 3A Multifamily Zoning. The board is also considering permits for a cell tower and a school site plan.

zoningmultifamily-housingcell-towersbusiness-districtssite-plans
✓ Decided: Planning Board approves cell tower modification and endorses school site plans

The board approved an eligible facilities request to extend the Wheeler Road cell tower by 10 feet, add four antennas, and install a generator, with all members voting yea. It also endorsed the revised site plans for Masters Academy International, allowing the building permit to be issued, again unanimously. The board approved the minutes of the May 27 meeting and agreed to review the draft Lower Village Business District design guidelines at a future meeting.

Mon Jun 16, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC to consider grant agreement with Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

The Community Preservation Committee will discuss a grant agreement with the Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust. The committee will also review an update on historic documents preservation and an invoice for KP Law.

affordable-housinggrantshistoric-preservationmunicipal-funding
✓ Decided: Committee approved June 2 minutes and set application rewrite deadline

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from June 2, 2025. Members discussed a historic‑document preservation RFP but took no vote. Becky agreed to revise the draft application by the July 21 meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Mon Jun 16, 2025

Comprehensive Plan Committee

Comprehensive Plan Committee to review Phase 3 efforts and plan layout

The committee will discuss the public engagement process and proposed revisions to the town's vision, goals, and future land use map. Members will also review graphic layout options for the plan and organize the committee's annual leadership elections.

comprehensive-planland-usepublic-engagementtown-planning
✓ Decided: Committee reelects leadership and approves key plan revisions

The committee approved the minutes from 4/10/25 by unanimous vote. It adopted several revisions to the Comprehensive Plan, including keeping the Balancing Priorities theme title, separating agritourism, combining sections 2B and 3B, and moving Goal 5A into the core theme description. The members agreed to bring a proposal to use remaining outreach funds for technical analysis to the July 8 joint meeting with the Planning and Select Boards. Hector Constantzos moved to reelect Charlie Hartford as Chair, himself as Vice Chair, and Laurie Burnett as Clerk; the motion passed unanimously.

Thu Jun 12, 2025

Economic Development and Industrial Commission

EDIC to discuss Stow Town Market and Comprehensive Plan strategies

The Economic Development and Industrial Commission will discuss establishing a Stow Town Market and reviewing economic development strategies within the Comprehensive Plan. The commission may also vote on supporting businesses affected by the Plastic Bag Ban.

economic-developmenttown-marketcomprehensive-planplastic-bag-banstrategic-planning
✓ Decided: EDIC agreed to explore farmers market options and assign research tasks

The commission discussed possible sites for a Stow Farmers Market and decided to keep the discussion for a future meeting while assigning research tasks to members. The May meeting minutes were approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous roll‑call vote.

Thu Jun 12, 2025

Board of Health

Board of Health to review variance requests for water and septic systems

The Board of Health will review building plans and variance requests for three specific properties. The board will also discuss hurricane training and office business.

health-boardsepticwater-supplybuilding-permitsvariances
Thu Jun 12, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Stow Council on Aging Board to meet June 12

The Council on Aging Board will meet to review reports from outreach workers and liaisons. The board will also hear from guest Alex Maslow, a Minuteman Resident Services Coordinator.

senior-servicescommunity-outreachstow-ma
✓ Decided: Board voted to suspend July and August meetings

The board accepted the May 8, 2025 minutes as written. A motion to suspend board meetings in July and August was passed with four votes in favor and two abstentions. The board also approved a four‑hour job‑share arrangement with the town social worker. The van driver resigned and HR will post a new driver position.

Thu Jun 12, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Stow Green Advisory Committee reviews climate and energy initiatives including Wandering Pond power needs

The Stow Green Advisory Committee will discuss updates on climate grants, heat pump initiatives, and the Wandering Pond development's electric capacity requirements. The meeting also covers past minutes, a CAP update for the Select Board, and next steps after a plastic bag article. No decisions are listed on this agenda.

climateenergyzoninggrantsheat-pumpswaste-reduction
✓ Decided: GAC approved May 8, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously

The Green Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the May 8, 2025 meeting with a 4‑0 vote. No other actions were taken; the remaining agenda items were discussed or left for future meetings.

Wed Jun 11, 2025

Recreation Commission

Stow Recreation Commission to discuss Randall Woods and maintenance

The Recreation Commission will meet to review updates on Randall Woods and general maintenance. The body will also discuss monthly special events and approve minutes from the March 12, 2025, meeting.

recreationparksmaintenancecommunity-events
✓ Decided: Commission unanimously approved March 12 meeting minutes

The Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. The board discussed an after‑school martial arts program, updates on the Randall Woods project, maintenance activities, and ideas for future community events, but no further actions were voted on. The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 PM by unanimous vote.

Tue Jun 10, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to consider DPW union contract and police policy updates

The Select Board will meet to discuss several administrative approvals and policy updates. Key items include the ratification of a DPW Teamsters Union contract and updates to numerous police policies and procedures.

labor-contractspolicedevelopmentpublic-safetyadministration
✓ Decided: Select Board ratified three‑year DPW Teamsters union contract

The board unanimously ratified the Department of Public Works Teamsters union contract for FY 2026‑2028 and approved a special event permit for the National Night Out. It also approved letters to state officials, adopted updated police policies, and signed the Masters Academy development agreement addendum. Additional actions included granting a recreation boating permit, accepting a temporary easement for the Hudson Road traffic light project, and confirming committee assignments and annual reappointments.

Tue Jun 10, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Committee to discuss rumble strip policies and intersection improvements

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will review traffic data for White Pond Road and discuss a request regarding school bus traffic at Red Acre Road and Tuttle Lane. The body will also consider a temporary rumble strip policy and a list of intersections to be modified to T-style.

traffic-safetyroadsinfrastructurepublic-safety
✓ Decided: TSAC votes Dan Rowley as new chair, approves May minutes

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee voted unanimously to approve the May 27, 2025 minutes and to appoint Dan Rowley as chair starting July 1, 2025. The committee discussed several traffic items, including Red Acre Road bus concerns, a rumble strip removal letter, and a T-intersection list, but took no final action on those items. The rumble strip policy was tabled to the next full meeting.

Mon Jun 9, 2025

Lake Boon Commission

Lake Boon Commission to discuss boat rentals for town beach

The Lake Boon Commission will meet to review finances and bills. The body is also scheduled to discuss boat rentals for the town beach.

lake-boontown-beachboat-rentalsfinance
✓ Decided: LBC unanimously appoints Dan Tereau as chair and renews boat rental approval

The commission unanimously approved Dan Tereau as the new chair, effective June 1, 2025. They also approved the automatic renewal of the Stow Recreation Department’s boat‑rental authorization for the town beach. Financial actions included reimbursing $1,380.19 for buoy expenses and paying $1,090 to the Lake Boon Association for water testing. The June 2 meeting minutes were approved and the session was adjourned unanimously.

Mon Jun 9, 2025

Town Hall Building Reuse Committee

Committee to review presentation for the Select Board

The Town Hall Building Reuse Committee will discuss and run through a presentation intended for the Select Board. The committee may take a vote on the presentation and approve minutes from the May 12, 2025 meeting.

town-hallbuilding-reusegovernment-administration
Mon Jun 9, 2025

Cultural Council

Stow Cultural Council to discuss Comprehensive Plan draft strategies

The Cultural Council will meet to review draft strategies for the Comprehensive Plan. The body will also plan a grantee reception scheduled for September 18, 2025.

cultural-councilcomprehensive-plancommunity-events
✓ Decided: Council unanimously approves March 24 minutes and plans upcoming reception

The council approved the March 24, 2025 minutes without dissent. Members assigned tasks for the September 18, 2025 grantee reception, including a flyer, food budget estimate, and website update. The council decided to continue meeting and to collaborate with SAGA on art shows and the reception. A motion to adjourn was approved.

Thu Jun 5, 2025

Historical Commission

Stow Historical Commission to discuss West School and CPC appointments

The Historical Commission will review building permits and the status of Stows Artifacts and the West School. The body will also discuss appointments for the Community Preservation Commission and new commission members.

historic-preservationappointmentsbuilding-permitscommunity-preservation
✓ Decided: Commission reappointed Barbara Clancy as Historical Commission representative on the CPC

The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes as amended. It also unanimously accepted the treasurer’s report as written. Members voted to reappoint Barbara Clancy as the Historical Commission’s representative on the Community Preservation Committee. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Tue Jun 3, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to hold hearing for auto shop at 124 Great Road

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a special permit and site plan for an auto service and tire repair shop. The board will also discuss multifamily zoning and draft strategies for the Comprehensive Plan.

zoningpublic-hearinghousingcomprehensive-planbusiness-permits
✓ Decided: Board voted to continue auto service permit hearing to July 15, 2025

The Planning Board unanimously moved to continue the public hearing for the Auto Service & Tire Repair Shop special permit to July 15, 2025 at 7:15 PM. The Board also voted to require the applicant to notify abutters of the continuance with a certificate of mailing by July 1, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

Tue Jun 3, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Randall Library Trustees to reorganize officers and discuss building updates

The Board of Trustees will select officers and review a report from the Library Director. The meeting includes updates on Building Committee 2.0 and a discussion on board norms and meeting schedules for the coming year.

librarybuilding-committeeboard-governancestow
✓ Decided: Trustees unanimously elected new library officers

The board voted to approve the proposed slate of officers, naming Mark Dexter as Chair, Barbie Wolfenden as Vice Chair, Morgan Hillman as Treasurer, and Maureen Busch as Secretary. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote. Regular meeting schedule and upcoming agenda items were noted.

Tue Jun 3, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission to hear on gas main and Lake Boon Dam projects

The Stow Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a gas main installation and dam repairs. The body will also vote on enforcement orders for two properties.

conservationinfrastructuregas-maindam-repairenforcement
✓ Decided: Commission continued NSTAR Gas public hearing to June 17

The Stow Conservation Commission approved the May 20, 2025 minutes and a red‑line change for 126 Taylor Road, both unanimously. It issued a Certificate of Compliance for 168 North Shore Drive and postponed the Certificate for 94 Hudson Road. The commission voted to continue the public hearing on the NSTAR Gas (Eversource) Gleasondale Road project to June 17, 2025. It also closed the hearing and approved conditions for 0, 105, and 137 Barton Road, and issued an Enforcement Order for 165 South Acton Road, all unanimously.

Mon Jun 2, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

ZBA to review special permits and board policies

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a minor modification for 56 Harvard Road and evaluate special permits granted in 2022. The board will also discuss and potentially vote on policies regarding special permits, variances, site visits, and meeting packet deadlines.

zoningspecial-permitsvariancesboard-policy
✓ Decided: Board adopts new policy on special permits and variances

The Zoning Board approved its May 5 minutes and appointed David Hartnagel as Chair and Andrew DeMore as Clerk for the 2025‑2026 term. It approved a minor modification to the special permit for 56 Harvard Road. The Board also adopted a meeting‑material deadline policy and a new policy governing special permits and variances for single‑ and two‑family dwellings.

Mon Jun 2, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC reviews grant agreements for affordable housing trust

The Community Preservation Committee is meeting to review draft grant agreements with the Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust for May 2022 and May 2024 articles. The committee will also discuss a draft notice of interest of funding and a final application.

affordable-housinggrantscommunity-preservation
✓ Decided: Committee forwards draft grant agreements to KP Law for review

The Community Preservation Committee approved the May 19 minutes and voted to send both draft grant agreements to KP Law for legal review. It also decided not to order new green metal signs at this time and tasked Becky with revising the application packet for the next meeting. The meeting adjourned after a unanimous vote.

Mon Jun 2, 2025

Lake Boon Commission

Lake Boon Commission to discuss boat launch signage and dock conditions

The Lake Boon Commission will meet via remote participation to discuss lake maintenance and operations. The body will review budget spending and coordinate summer patrols.

lake-managementbudgetpublic-safetyinfrastructure
✓ Decided: Lake Boon Commission appoints new chair and approves buoy purchase

The commission unanimously appointed Dan Tereau as the new chair, effective June 1, 2025. The April 7, 2025 meeting minutes were approved without changes. The board also unanimously approved $600 for two new buoys and a chain, with Conray Wharff tasked to order them. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

Tue May 27, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to discuss MBTA multifamily housing zoning and set Special Town Meeting date

The Select Board will reorganize its leadership and consider a Common Victualler License for Dunkin’ at 108 Great Road. The board will also review Comprehensive Plan Goals and receive an update on multifamily housing zoning. An executive session is scheduled to discuss the value of real property at 688 Great Road.

zoninghousinglicensingreal-estateappointments
✓ Decided: Select Board approves $250,000 in‑lieu fee for Masters Academy project

The Stow Select Board unanimously approved replacing the Section C area‑improvement requirements in the Masters Academy Development Agreement with a flat in‑lieu fee of $250,000. $150,000 of the fee will go to a Sidewalk Improvement Fund and $100,000 will be placed in a gift account for signage, marketing or other project costs. The Board also unanimously approved convening the executive session and later adjourned the meeting.

Tue May 27, 2025

Select Board

Select Board reviews common victualler license application for Dunkin'

The Select Board is reviewing a common victualler license application for Mission Hill Donuts, LLC (doing business as Dunkin'). The application includes required workers' compensation insurance documentation.

licensingbusinesscommon-victualler
✓ Decided: Board approved a Common Victualler license for Dunkin' at 108 Great Road

The Select Board reorganized, appointing Megan Birch‑McMichael as Chair and JT Toole as Clerk. It approved a Common Victualler license for Mission Hill Donuts LLC (doing business as Dunkin') at 108 Great Road. The Board also supported the Planning Board’s MBTA Communities housing mission and the East Lower Village location, set the Special Town Meeting for Oct. 27, 2025, and reappointed the Building Commissioner and several inspectors.

Tue May 27, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Traffic Safety Committee to review crash data and intersection safety

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will discuss resident requests and safety measures for several town roads. The body is reviewing crash data and the potential need for stop signs at specific intersections.

traffic-safetyroad-maintenancepublic-safetyinfrastructure
✓ Decided: Committee recommends Sudbury Road rumble strips be removed, to be sent to Select Board

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee approved the May 6 minutes with a 3‑0 vote. Members voted unanimously to recommend that the Select Board remove the Sudbury Road rumble strips and asked Chief Sallese to prepare a letter. DPW will resume patching Hudson Road potholes this week, and a review of converting Harvard Road intersections to T‑intersections was added to next month’s agenda. Several items, such as painted arrows at the Town Center intersection, were deferred to the ongoing Town Center Project.

Tue May 27, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss multifamily zoning and draft comprehensive plan strategies

The Stow Planning Board will meet on May 27, 2025, to review administrative items, discuss Section 3A multifamily zoning requirements under the MBTA Communities law, and review draft strategies for the town’s comprehensive plan. A joint meeting with the Select Board will also address multifamily zoning. Public input and correspondence from various town boards and neighboring municipalities will be considered.

zoninghousingcomprehensive-planmbta-communitiesplanning-boardselect-boardconservation
✓ Decided: Planning Board approves submission of Section 3A multifamily zoning proposal to state

The board voted 4‑0 to move forward with submitting the Section 3A multifamily zoning materials, including the draft bylaw and site location, to the state for review. The board also approved the May 13 minutes, elected Lori Clark as chair and Karen Kelleher as vice chair, and appointed staff and members to various advisory and liaison roles. All votes were recorded as unanimous or unanimous with an abstention.

Thu May 22, 2025

Housing Authority

Stow Housing Authority to elect Chair and committee representative

The Stow Housing Authority will meet to conduct internal elections and receive a funding update. The body will select a Chair and a representative for the Community Preservation Committee.

housing-authorityelectionscommunity-preservation
Wed May 21, 2025

Open Space Committee

Open Space Committee to review Comprehensive Plan and Action Plan

The Open Space Committee will review and comment on the Comprehensive Plan. Members will also work on revisions to the Open Space and Recreation Plan Action Plan.

open-spacerecreationplanningconservation
✓ Decided: Open Space Committee approved April minutes and set action‑plan time frames

The committee approved the April meeting minutes with changes, noting all members voted in favor. Members discussed updates from the Comprehensive Plan and Conservation departments and agreed on a ten‑year timeline for the Open Space & Recreation Plan. The meeting was then adjourned.

Tue May 20, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission to hold five public hearings on residential projects

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings for five residential property requests. The body will also consider a request for redline changes at 25 Hallock and a certificate of compliance for Residences at Stow Acres.

conservationpublic-hearingsresidential-constructionzoning
✓ Decided: Commission authorized removal of erosion controls at Stow Acres site

The commission approved the May 6, 2025 minutes and voted to allow removal of one set of erosion controls at the Stow Acres location furthest from the Brook, withholding a Certificate of Compliance until the site is cleaned. It also closed the public hearing for 170 North Shore Drive and for 33 Hale Road, and postponed hearings for 63 Kingland Road, 331 Harvard Road, and 111 Kingland Road to June 17, 2025.

Mon May 19, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board of Assessors to review tax warrants and property exemptions

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss and vote on invoices and meeting minutes. The body will review warrants, commitments, abatements, and exemptions for motor vehicle excise, boat, real estate, and personal property. An executive session is scheduled to discuss a Senior Work Off Application.

taxesassessorsexemptionssenior-services
✓ Decided: Board unanimously approved minutes, tax reports and entered executive session

The Stow Board of Assessors approved the meeting minutes (amended) and several financial reports, including the Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment of $90,157.27, the Motor Vehicle Abatement Report of $4,033.75, and real‑estate abatements and exemptions for April. All approvals were unanimous. The Board also voted to enter an executive session to discuss a senior work‑off application.

Mon May 19, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC to discuss revised grant agreement with Affordable Housing Trust

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to discuss a revised grant agreement with the Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust. The committee will also review the CPC application process and due dates.

affordable-housinggrantshistoric-preservationcommunity-preservation
✓ Decided: CPC approved May 5 minutes and adjourned the May 19 meeting

The Community Preservation Committee approved the minutes from the May 5, 2025 meeting with six votes in favor and one abstention. The committee discussed grant agreements for SMAHT, application deadlines, and project updates, assigning staff to follow up on each item. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

Thu May 15, 2025

Economic Development and Industrial Commission

EDIC to review multifamily housing zoning and strategic plan

The Economic Development and Industrial Commission will discuss and possibly vote on a response to zoning changes for multifamily housing, and continue work on its strategic plan. The board will also consider scheduling a meeting with Representative Kate Hogan regarding the Stow Shopping Center, define stakeholders, and prepare for SWOT and PESTLE analyses. Administrative items include approving minutes and reviewing correspondence.

zoninghousingstrategic-planeconomic-developmentstakeholdersswotpestlemeeting
✓ Decided: EDIC unanimously approves minutes, backs multifamily housing zone, adjourns

The commission approved the April meeting minutes with amendments by unanimous roll‑call vote. It then voted unanimously to support the proposed multifamily housing zone at the East Lower Village location. Finally, the meeting was adjourned by unanimous roll‑call vote.

Wed May 14, 2025

Randall Library Building Committee 2.0

Library Building Committee to vote on interior finishes and furniture

The Randall Library Building Committee 2.0 will hear an update from designLAB on construction progress and vote on specific interior design choices, including carpet, acoustic panels, sign color, and furniture. The committee will also receive a report from Collier’s and approve minutes from three prior meetings. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

librarybuilding-committeeconstructiondesignfurniturestow
✓ Decided: Committee selects Dove carpet color and approves key interior finishes

The Building Committee approved the overall carpet color as Dove and the children’s area carpet color as Lead, both unanimously. The committee also unanimously approved the darkest‑blue option for code signage. Selection of soft‑seating chairs was postponed pending additional options. The minutes from previous meetings were approved unanimously.

Wed May 14, 2025

Randall Library Building Exterior Design Committee

Committee to vote on interior carpet, acoustic panels, sign color, furniture for Randall Library

The Randall Library Building Exterior Design Committee will discuss and vote on several interior design elements for the library, including carpet, acoustic panels, sign color, and furniture. The meeting also includes a construction update from designLAB, a report from Collier, and approval of minutes from previous meetings.

librarydesignconstructionstowrandall-libraryinterior-designcommittee
✓ Decided: Committee approves Dove carpet, Lead children’s carpet, and dark‑blue signage colors

The Exterior Design Committee voted unanimously to select the Dove carpet color for the main areas, the Lead carpet color for the Children’s area, and the darkest blue option for code signage. Motions were also made to use Natural cork flooring and Pearl‑colored fabric on acoustic panels, though vote results were not recorded. The committee decided to obtain additional soft‑seating chair options for the next meeting and approved the minutes from prior meetings unanimously.

Tue May 13, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to vote on Pride Proclamation and $8.17M bond note

The Select Board will discuss and possibly vote on a Pride Proclamation for June 2025, approve an $8,171,500 General Bond Anticipation Note, and consider multiple one-day liquor licenses for Clover Road Brewing at the American Heritage Museum. They will also set the summer meeting schedule and accept a donated Henry Gardner sign. Correspondence includes zoning for multifamily housing and traffic concerns.

select-boardpride-proclamationbond-anticipation-noteliquor-licenseamerican-heritage-museumstowzoningtraffic
✓ Decided: Board approved $8.17 M bond to fund library, water system, fire engine

The Select Board unanimously approved an $8,171,500 general obligation bond to finance the Randall Library project, water system improvements, and a new fire engine. It also adopted a Pride Month proclamation, granted one‑day liquor licenses for Clover Road Brewing at the American Heritage Museum, set the summer meeting dates, accepted a historic sign donation, and agreed to coordinate a boundary perambulation with Acton.

Tue May 13, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss multifamily zoning and vote on auto shop permit

The Stow Planning Board will meet online to review administrative items, hear public input, and hold a continued public hearing on a special permit for an auto service and tire repair shop at 124 Great Road. The board will also discuss and possibly vote on zoning changes for multifamily housing under the MBTA Communities law.

zoninghousingpermittrafficconservation
✓ Decided: Planning Board approved submitting multifamily zoning proposal to state

The Board approved continuing the public hearing for the Auto Service & Tire Repair Shop special permit at 124 Great Road to June 3, 2025. The Board also agreed to submit the Section 3A multifamily zoning proposal to the state for initial feedback while continuing to refine it. Earlier agenda items approved the minutes for April 15, 22, and 29, 2025, and the meeting was adjourned.

Mon May 12, 2025

Town Hall Building Reuse Committee

Committee to review draft report on Town Hall reuse options

The Town Hall Building Reuse Committee will review and discuss a draft report on potential reuse of the town building, with a possible vote. They will also discuss a presentation for the Select Board, approve previous meeting minutes, and elect a chair for the June meeting.

reusetown-hallcommitteemeetingstow
Sat May 10, 2025

Capital Planning Committee

Capital Planning Committee to review Town Meeting recommendations

The Capital Planning Committee will meet to discuss Town Meeting recommendations and related business. The agenda is primarily procedural.

capital-planningtown-meetingstow
✓ Decided: Committee unanimously supported Article 36-14 for security camera upgrade

The Capital Planning Committee decided that no reconsideration of Article 36-1 is required. It unanimously passed a motion to support Article 36-14 concerning the security camera server replacement. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous motion.

Thu May 8, 2025

Board of Health

Board of Health to review septic and well variance requests at multiple properties

The Stow Board of Health will consider several variance requests for proposed septic systems and wells at 105 Barton Road, 254 Taylor Road, 10 Davis Road, and 44 Red Acre Road. The board will also discuss drought conditions, a vaccine clinic, and routine office business.

healthsepticwellsvariancesstowboard-of-health
Thu May 8, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Council on Aging Board to review minutes, receive reports

The Council on Aging Board will review and accept minutes from April 10, 2025, and receive updates from liaisons (Community Preservation Committee, Minuteman Senior Services, Social Worker), outreach worker (Durable Medical Equipment, Food Program, Events), chair, and director. No major decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

council-on-agingsenior-servicesstowmassachusettsmeetingcommunity-centerreports
✓ Decided: Board accepts April minutes; continues Social Worker's report

The board reviewed and accepted the minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting. It decided to keep receiving the Social Worker's report at future board meetings. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

Thu May 8, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Green Advisory Committee to discuss sustainable materials and heat pump initiative

The Green Advisory Committee will meet to discuss the Sustainable Materials Recovery Program with Irene Congdon. Members will also review updates on a plastic bag article and the Stow/Hudson heat pump initiative.

environmentsustainabilitywaste-managementclimate-actionenergy-efficiency
✓ Decided: Green Advisory Committee approves April 10 minutes

The committee approved the minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting with a 3‑0 vote. An update on the Sustainable Materials Recycling Program was provided, but no actions were voted on. The group noted Stow’s new Climate Leader designation and discussed possible grant opportunities, without making a decision. Other topics such as the plastics bag ordinance, a heat‑pump initiative, and board term structures were discussed but not formally acted upon.

Wed May 7, 2025

Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

MBTA Communities compliance and Bird Meadow project discussed

This meeting of the Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will discuss compliance with the MBTA Communities law (Section 3A) in coordination with the Planning Department. Trustees will also review terms of a Community Preservation Committee grant agreement and finalize a Request for Proposal for the Bird Meadow affordable housing project. Other agenda items include approving minutes, reviewing correspondence and bills, and trustee reports.

affordable-housingmbta-communitiesplanningbird-meadowcommunity-preservationhousingstow
✓ Decided: SMAHT unanimously approves minutes, invoice payment and MBTA housing plan

The trust approved the April 9 minutes by unanimous voice vote. It also approved a $770 payment to Leonardi Aray Architects with a unanimous vote. SMAHT voted unanimously to support the MBTA Communities multi‑family housing plan and to communicate that support to the Stow Planning Board. The meeting was then adjourned.

Wed May 7, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Randall Library Trustees to recognize departing members and review director

The Randall Library Board of Trustees will meet to recognize departing members, review the library director’s annual performance, and discuss upcoming town meeting items. The meeting will also include reports from the library director, treasurer, and a revitalization update.

librarytown-meetingfurniture-purchasesrecognitiontrustees
✓ Decided: Board accepted minutes and adjourned the meeting

The trustees voted to accept the meeting minutes. The motion passed with five members voting yes, one member abstaining, and one absent. A motion to adjourn the meeting also passed, with six members voting yes and one absent. No other formal actions were recorded.

Tue May 6, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

TSAC to weigh 3-way stop at Boxboro/Packard and review temporary rumble strip policy

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will discuss multiple traffic concerns, including issues on Maple Street, Harvard Road, and the town center light, along with signage and a proposed temporary rumble strip policy. Administrative items such as correspondence, minutes, and public input will also be covered.

traffic-safetysignagerumble-strippedestrian-safetyboxboro-roadpackard-roadstow-ma
✓ Decided: TSAC approved March minutes, adjourned, and tabled rumble‑strip policy

The committee voted 3‑0 to accept the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes. They voted 3‑0 to adjourn the May 6, 2025 meeting. The draft rumble‑strip policy was postponed to the next agenda for further revision with the Fire Chief.

Tue May 6, 2025

Hale High School Fund Trustees

Trustees to discuss 2025 library grant and investment strategy

The Hale High School Fund Trustees will hold a meeting on May 6, 2025. They will discuss investment strategy policy, the trust budget for a 2025 grant to the Randall Library, and possibly vote on the library's request. An update on the library renovation project is also scheduled. The meeting will also welcome a new trustee and review previous minutes.

stow-massachusettshale-high-school-fundtrusteeslibraryinvestmentbudgetgrant
✓ Decided: Trustees approved a $15,500 grant to Randall Library for FY26 reference room

The board voted to keep the fund’s current 60% equity / 40% bond ESG investment strategy. They approved a $15,500 grant to the Randall Library for FY26 reference‑room expenses. The trustees also changed the quarterly report distribution, set a six‑month review of the library request, and scheduled the next meeting for November 4. All motions passed unanimously.

Tue May 6, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission to review shoreline and residential projects

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings for three residential property requests. The commission will also consider redline changes to previously approved plans for three separate addresses.

conservationpublic-hearingszoningenvironmental-protection
✓ Decided: Commission issues Negative 3 Determination for 10 Davis Road

The Stow Conservation Commission approved the April 1 minutes unanimously. It approved redline changes for 25 Hallock Point Road and 156 Barton Road, denied redline changes for 73 Crescent Street, and issued a Negative 3 Determination for 10 Davis Road. The commission also continued public hearings for 0 Barton Road, 33 Hale Road, and 111 Kingland Road to later dates.

Mon May 5, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

ZBA to review draft policy for special permits and variances

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance request for 126 Taylor Road (continued from April). The board will also discuss a minor modification request for 56 Harvard Road, review special permits granted in 2023 for several properties, and consider a draft policy for special permits and variances—potentially shaping future applications.

zoningvariancesspecial-permitspublic-hearingpolicy
✓ Decided: Board grants pool variance at 126 Taylor Rd; parking changes at 56 Harvard Rd classified

The Zoning Board approved a variance allowing a swimming pool at 126 Taylor Road and adopted the final decision for that variance. It classified the accessible parking change at 56 Harvard Road as a minor modification, while the relocation of business parking and the alteration of the pathway requirement were deemed major modifications requiring a public hearing. The meeting was adjourned at 8:32 p.m.

Mon May 5, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC to review and vote on grant agreement with Stow Library

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve minutes, discuss a Memorandum of Understanding with the Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust, receive an update on the Finance Committee recommendation, and review/vote on a grant agreement with the Stow Library. Reports include a status update on Rock Bottom Farm and correspondence regarding Freedom's Way Hidden Treasures.

community-preservationgrantshousinglibraryfinanceopen-spaceaffordable-housing
✓ Decided: CPC approved Library award letter changes and ordered project signs

The committee approved the minutes from the April 7, 2025 meeting. It approved amendments to the Library award letter, adding a signature requirement and opting for email notification instead of a hard‑copy letter. The white‑background sign design was selected and Becky was directed to order ten signs using administrative funds. Mike Kopczynski was tasked with drafting a customized grant agreement with milestone payments before the next meeting.

Thu May 1, 2025

Historical Commission

Historical Commission to discuss building permits and Gardner Sign

The Stow Historical Commission will review meeting minutes, the treasurer's report, building permits, the Gardner Sign, and updates from the Stow Historical Society and Community Preservation Committee. They will also discuss artifacts, West School, new members, and correspondence.

historical-commissionbuilding-permitscommunity-preservationartifactswest-schoolnew-members
✓ Decided: Commission accepted a donated Gardner sign and urged the Select Board to approve it

The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes and the updated expense account balance of $1,200. It also accepted a donated new Henry Gardner sign and recommended that the Select Board approve the gift. All motions passed unanimously.

Wed Apr 30, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee to vote on Warrant Article 36-14 and Town Meeting presentation

The Finance Committee will review and vote on Warrant Article 36-14, the Town Meeting presentation, and who will present it. They may also consider reserve fund transfers and receive updates from the Town Administrator and committee members.

financestowwarrant-articlestown-meetingreserve-fundscommittee-updates
✓ Decided: Committee recommends school camera system plan and approves Town Meeting presentation

The Finance Committee voted 3-2 to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 36-14 concerning the school camera system. The committee unanimously approved the draft Town Meeting presentation and unanimously selected Dan Petersen to deliver it, with Jeff Kimmelman as backup. No reserve fund transfers were presented for action. The meeting was adjourned without objection.

Tue Apr 29, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss MBTA Communities multifamily zoning requirement

The Planning Board will consider a minor modification to a special permit for Stow House of Pizza at 148-155 Great Road. They will also discuss the Section 3A Multifamily Zoning (MBTA Communities) requirement. The meeting includes public input and review of correspondence on related topics.

zoningplanning-boardmbta-communitiesspecial-permitstowmassachusetts
✓ Decided: Board approved minor modification to Stow House of Pizza special permit

The Planning Board approved Minor Modification #2 for the Stow House of Pizza site at 148‑155 Great Road, adding specific timelines for changes, plantings, and rock boulder relocation, and requiring a signed acknowledgment of the revised plan. The Board voted not to waive the application fee and set a 30‑day deadline for payment. Additional language was added to enforce Section 7.7 screening requirements for future building expansions. The Board also confirmed meeting dates for May through July.

Mon Apr 28, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board of Assessors to discuss tax warrants and Annual Town Meeting

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss and vote on tax warrants, commitments, and reports for motor vehicle, boat, real estate, and personal property. The board will also discuss the Annual Town Meeting and overlay/surplus. An executive session is scheduled to address pending litigation and FY2025 abatement and exemption applications.

taxesassessmentslitigationtown-meetingexemptions
✓ Decided: Board approved multiple March 2025 abatement reports, all unanimously

The Stow Board of Assessors unanimously approved the meeting minutes as amended and four March 2025 abatement reports totaling $17,856.89. The board also signed the Real Estate and Exemption reports and entered an executive session.

Wed Apr 23, 2025

Open Space Committee

Open Space Committee to discuss updated plan guidelines and trail maps

The Stow Open Space Committee will consider approving March minutes, receive updates from the Comprehensive Plan Committee and Conservation Department, and discuss updated Open Space Plan guidelines and approval processes. They will also review examples of townwide trail maps and assess existing Open Space and Recreation Plan recommendations and status.

open-spaceconservationtrailscomprehensive-planrecreation
✓ Decided: March meeting minutes approved by the Open Space Committee

The committee approved the March meeting minutes with a 4‑0 vote, while one member abstained. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. No other substantive actions were decided.

Tue Apr 22, 2025

Select Board

Public hearing on transfer of liquor license to 117 Great Road LLC

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on transferring a liquor license from Nickrosz Spirits dba Colonial Spirits to 117 Great Road LLC, with Nikhilbhai Patel as manager. They will also discuss the FY26 state update with state legislators, review and approve the 2025 Annual Town Meeting Warrant, and consider childcare options at Town Meeting. Additional items include a patrol officer appointment, year-end transfers, and a request for a granite marker at the former Hale High School site.

liquor-licensepublic-hearingtown-meetingstate-fundingchildcareappointments
✓ Decided: Select Board unanimously approves liquor license transfer and other key actions

The board unanimously appointed Steven Stewart Jr. as a patrol officer through June 30, 2025. It also approved the transfer of the Section 15 off‑premises liquor license from Nickrosz Spirits to 117 Great Rd LLC and the associated pledge of the license. Additional unanimous approvals included a granite marker for the former Hale High School site, the 2025 annual town meeting warrant, and $354,600 of year‑end fiscal transfers. The board agreed to gather more information on providing childcare at future town meetings.

Tue Apr 22, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss MBTA Communities multifamily housing zoning requirement

The Planning Board will discuss and potentially take action on the Section 3A Multifamily Housing Zoning, also known as the MBTA Communities requirement. This state law mandates that communities like Stow adopt zoning for multi-family housing near transit. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

planning-boardzoninghousingmbta-communitiesmultifamily-housing
✓ Decided: Planning Board set next steps for MBTA Communities multifamily zoning proposal

The Board approved a plan to collect public and stakeholder feedback on the MBTA Communities multifamily zoning proposal over the next 2‑3 weeks. It agreed to add language to the mission statement ensuring state‑required standards, keep the 2‑space per unit parking minimum, and revise bicycle‑storage wording. Staff will draft a letter to the Select Board seeking support, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Thu Apr 17, 2025

Economic Development and Industrial Commission

EDIC to discuss plastic bag ban and Stow shopping plaza

The Economic Development and Industrial Commission will hear a presentation on Planning Board initiatives. The commission will discuss and potentially vote on a plastic bag ban and initial contact with a real estate company representing the Stow shopping plaza.

economic-developmentplastic-bagscommercial-real-estatestrategic-planning
✓ Decided: EDIC approved minutes, rescheduled meeting, and stayed neutral on plastic bag ban

The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes. It also voted unanimously to move the June 15 town meeting to June 12. Members voted unanimously to remain neutral and abstain from supporting the town's proposed plastic bag ban. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously at 8:28 pm.

Thu Apr 17, 2025

Capital Planning Committee

Capital Planning Committee to review FY26 capital requests

The committee will review and make recommendations on FY26 capital requests and capital projects, and plan for the annual town meeting. The agenda includes approval of prior minutes and other routine business.

capital-planningbudgettown-meetingmunicipal-finance
✓ Decided: Committee unanimously recommends $4 M Lake Boon Dam repairs

The Capital Planning Committee approved the minutes from the April 3 meeting. It voted to recommend a series of FY‑2026 capital projects, most notably a $4,000,000 repair of the Lake Boon Dam, which passed unanimously. Other projects received recommendations with vote tallies ranging from unanimous to 4‑1.

Wed Apr 16, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee reviews $354,600 in FY25 General Fund year-end transfers

The Finance Committee is reviewing a series of budget transfers totaling $354,600. These adjustments move funds from various wage accounts to cover costs for utilities, overtime, and department operations.

budgetfinancepolicefiredpw
✓ Decided: Committee approved $3.4 million loan to fund Lake Boon Dam replacement

The Stow Finance Committee voted unanimously to approve the FY 2026 wage and salary schedules, set revolving fund spending limits, and fund a series of town programs and services. It also adopted a $3.4 million borrowing to complete the Lake Boon Dam replacement, supplementing the $600,000 already allocated. All other listed articles were recommended for favorable action and passed unanimously.

Tue Apr 15, 2025

Randall Library Building Committee 2.0

Library building committee to vote on exterior finishes, hear construction update

The Randall Library Building Committee 2.0 will meet to receive updates from designLAB on construction highlights and challenges, and from Colliers. Key business includes a discussion and vote on the brick blend ratio, mortar, and Hardie board color. The committee will also approve minutes and consider other items.

librarybuilding-committeeconstructionexterior-designdesign-updatevote
✓ Decided: Exterior Design Committee unanimously approved pearl grey Hardie board for the library

The Exterior Design Committee voted unanimously to use pearl grey Hardie board, tumbleweed color mortar, and the color assortment ratios shown in display #6 for the library exterior. No other votes were taken during the meeting. The committee adjourned at 8:00 pm.

Tue Apr 15, 2025

Randall Library Building Exterior Design Committee

Committee to vote on brick blend, mortar, and Hardie board color

The Randall Library Building Exterior Design Committee will discuss and vote on the brick blend ratio, mortar, and Hardie board color for the library construction. They will also receive updates from designLAB and Collier's report, and approve minutes.

libraryconstructiondesignvotingstowmassachusettsmeeting
✓ Decided: Exterior Design Committee approves three exterior finish selections

The committee voted unanimously to select pearl grey Hardie board for siding, tumbleweed color mortar for joints, and the color assortment ratios shown in display #6 for the field. These choices were approved by roll‑call vote of the Exterior Design Committee. No other substantive votes were taken at the meeting.

Tue Apr 15, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to hold hearing for auto service shop at 124 Great Road

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit and site plan for an auto service and tire repair shop. The board will also discuss multifamily zoning related to MBTA Communities and a landscaping plan for the Stow House of Pizza.

zoningpublic-hearinghousingsite-plan
✓ Decided: Board postpones auto service shop permit hearing to May 13

The Planning Board voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the Auto Service & Tire Repair Shop Special Permit at 124 Great Road, moving it to May 13. The Board also adopted the draft mission statement for the MBTA Communities multifamily zoning initiative. Additionally, the Board approved a modified landscaping plan for Stow House of Pizza, requiring the owner to sign a commitment and provide a cover letter detailing changes.

Mon Apr 14, 2025

Town Hall Building Reuse Committee

Town Hall Building Reuse Committee to review draft recommendation

The committee will review and discuss a draft summary and recommendation for the future use of the Town Building at 380 Great Road. A vote may be taken on the draft and on a presentation to the Select Board. The meeting also includes a recap of a prior event (MacBeth) and a vote for chair.

building-reusetown-hallstowcommitteepublic-meeting
Thu Apr 10, 2025

Board of Health

Septic upgrade with two waiver requests at 116 White Pond Road reviewed

The Board of Health will review a proposed septic system upgrade at 116 White Pond Road, including two waiver requests: one to size the leach field per Title 5 rather than 150%, and another to allow a 65-foot distance from well instead of 100 feet. The board also plans to review accessory dwelling unit building permits at 33 Birch Hill Road and 233 West Acton Road. Discussion items include a draft letter on PFAS at Lake Boon and a nomination for Animal Inspector 2025.

board-of-healthsepticaccessory-dwelling-unitspfasdroughtanimal-inspectorstow
Thu Apr 10, 2025

Comprehensive Plan Committee

Committee to review draft Future Land Use Map and survey results

The Comprehensive Plan Committee will discuss results of the Vision, Core Themes, and Goals Survey and review the Draft Future Land Use Map. They will also coordinate community engagement materials and review a draft strategy list. No votes or binding decisions are scheduled; the meeting is largely a working session.

comprehensive-planland-usecommunity-engagementsurveystow
✓ Decided: Committee approved a revised land‑use map and a letter to the editor

The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes. It agreed to revise the Future Land Use Map, tasking Austin to draft a new version for public input. Members approved a motion for Lori Clark and Charlie Hartford to write a letter to the editor with input from JM Goldson and Valerie Oorthuys. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 9:19 PM.

Thu Apr 10, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Council on Aging Board reviews March minutes and senior service reports

The Stow Council on Aging Board will hold its regular monthly meeting. Business includes approving the March 13, 2025 minutes and receiving updates from liaisons (Community Preservation Committee, Minuteman Senior Services, Social Worker) and outreach workers (Durable Medical Equipment, Food Program, Events). The Director and Chair will also give reports on vans, events, issues, and statistics.

council-on-agingsenior-servicesstowminutesliaison-reports
✓ Decided: Board unanimously accepted March minutes and adjourned the meeting

The Council on Aging Board voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the March 13, 2025 meeting. A motion to adjourn the April 10 meeting was made by George and seconded by Ruth, and the roll call was unanimous. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

Thu Apr 10, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

✓ Decided: Committee approved March 13 meeting minutes with a 3‑0 vote

The Stow Green Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the March 13, 2025 meeting after minor updates, voting 3‑0. John Colona‑Romano made the motion and John Sangermano seconded it. No other items were formally decided; the committee discussed several initiatives but took no votes.

Wed Apr 9, 2025

Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

Trust to review Bird Meadow Project documents and grant agreement

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will meet remotely to review documents related to the Bird Meadow Project, including a Community Preservation Committee Grant Agreement, a draft Request for Proposal, and a town water report. The board will also discuss bid management system options and a press release. Routine items include approval of prior minutes and trustee reports.

affordable-housinghousing-trustbird-meadow-projectcommunity-preservationrequest-for-proposalgrant-agreementwater-reportbid-management
✓ Decided: SMAHT approved submitting the Bird Meadow Lane RFP to town procurement

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the March 19 meeting. It also unanimously approved moving forward with the Bird Meadow Lane Project by submitting the revised RFP to the town’s procurement process. The board approved a one‑year $500 subscription to Project Dog software for bid management. The meeting was adjourned at 8:32 pm.

Tue Apr 8, 2025

Select Board

Public hearing on Shelburne Farm liquor licenses; FY2026 budget discussion

The Select Board will hold a public hearing at 7:30 p.m. on Shelburne Farm's applications for a retail package store license and an on-premises wine and malt license. They will also discuss and possibly vote on a Girl Scout Gold Award project, the Historical Society's 250th Anniversary send-off event and proclamation, Collings Foundation events, an event permit for 'Raising Connected Kids', the FY2026 budget, and the Annual Town Meeting warrant.

select-boardpublic-hearingliquor-licensebudgettown-meetingpermitshistoricalevents
✓ Decided: Board unanimously approved Shelburne Farm liquor licenses and several community projects

The Select Board approved the Girl Scout Gold Award outdoor classroom project, the 2025 American Heritage Museum event schedule, and a permit for the Raising Connected Kids event with the insurance requirement waived. The Board also opened and closed the public hearing and unanimously approved both the on‑premises (Section 12) and off‑premises (Section 15) liquor licenses for Shelburne Farm. Additionally, the Board approved the proclamation commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington and Concord.

Mon Apr 7, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

Public hearing on variance for 126 Taylor Road, plus review of special permits and draft policy

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance application for 126 Taylor Road. They will also discuss and possibly vote on a determination regarding 56 Harvard Road, review a list of special permits granted in 2024, review a verdict from consolidated court cases, and consider a draft policy for special permits and variances. Administrative items include approval of minutes and correspondence review.

zoningvariancesspecial-permitspublic-hearingstow-maboard-of-appeals
✓ Decided: Board rules both 56 Harvard Road permit changes are major modifications

The Zoning Board approved the March 3, 2025 minutes as amended. It waived the reading of the notice for the 126 Taylor Road variance and postponed the public hearing to May 5, 2025. The Board determined that both requested changes to the Special Permit at 56 Harvard Road constitute major modifications, requiring a public hearing. It also agreed that once a Certificate of Occupancy is issued, no annual review of Special Permits is required.

Mon Apr 7, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

Community Preservation Committee reviews grant agreement and committee updates

The Stow Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve minutes from March 17, 2025, receive updates from the Capital Committee and Finance Committee, and review a draft grant agreement. The agenda also includes discussion of signs. No specific dollar amounts or project names are listed.

community-preservationgrantsfinancecapital-committeeminutessigns
✓ Decided: Community Preservation Committee approved March 17 minutes

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 17, 2025 meeting. It approved changes to the library award letter, requiring a signature line on invoices and deciding to send the letter by email after Town Meeting. The committee approved preferred sign design elements and tasked Becky with revising the sign mock‑ups for the May 5 meeting.

Mon Apr 7, 2025

Lake Boon Commission

Dock request at 25 Hallock Point Road up for vote

The Lake Boon Commission will consider a dock request for 25 Hallock Point Road, review conditions of docks and floats on the lake, and discuss spring maintenance of boats, buoys, chains, and lights. The meeting also includes approving outstanding minutes and paying bills.

lake-boon-commissiondockspermittingspring-maintenancestow-massachusetts
✓ Decided: Lake Boon Commission unanimously approved a dock variance for 25 Hallock Point Rd

The commission granted an exception to the 20‑foot dock limit, allowing a ~25‑foot dock at 25 Hallock Point Rd. It also approved reimbursement of $637.31 for boat‑related expenses, authorized purchase of new buoys at $160 each if needed, and adopted the February 10, 2025 minutes. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Fri Apr 4, 2025

Housing Authority

Stow Housing Authority to discuss relationship with Hudson Housing Authority

The Stow Housing Authority will meet remotely to discuss its agreement and relationship with the Hudson Housing Authority. The board will also review the use of authority funds and succession planning.

housingintergovernmental-agreementsfinanceadministration
Fri Apr 4, 2025

Local Access Channel Advisory Committee

Local Access Channel Advisory Committee to select scholarship recipient

The committee will meet via Zoom to approve previous meeting minutes and determine a scholarship award recipient. Members will also receive an update on optic fiber installation and discuss a potential public event.

scholarshipsinfrastructurepublic-mediacommunity-events
✓ Decided: Scholarship awarded to student #49

The committee unanimously approved the March 17, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved awarding the scholarship to student #49. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

Thu Apr 3, 2025

Historical Commission

Historical Commission to review Randall Library Project and Community Preservation items

The Stow Historical Commission will meet to discuss routine business including approval of minutes, treasurer's report, and building permits. They will also review matters from the Community Preservation Committee, the Randall Library Project, and Stow's artifacts and West School. The meeting includes discussion of the 250th Celebration and new member applications.

historical-commissioncommunity-preservationlibraryartifactscelebrationpublic-meeting
✓ Decided: Commission unanimously approved CPA funds for Randall Library restoration

The commission approved the minutes of the meeting and accepted the treasurer’s report, both unanimously. It also unanimously approved the Community Preservation Committee’s application for CPA funds to restore the historic Randall Library building. No other substantive actions were taken.

Thu Apr 3, 2025

Capital Planning Committee

Stow Capital Planning Committee to review FY26 capital request and Lake Boon Dam update

The Capital Planning Committee will consider a capital request from the Community Preservation Committee for fiscal year 2026 and receive an update on the Lake Boon Dam project. Other routine items include approving prior meeting minutes and discussing other business.

capital-planningcommunity-preservationlake-boon-daminfrastructure
✓ Decided: Committee approved prior minutes and adjourned the meeting unanimously

The Capital Planning Committee approved the March 30, 2025 minutes with a unanimous vote. The committee then adjourned the meeting, also unanimously. No other substantive approvals, denials, or tabled actions were recorded.

Wed Apr 2, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee to discuss FY26 budget and reserve fund transfers

The Finance Committee will review and possibly vote on reserve fund transfers and discuss the FY26 budget, with votes possible. The agenda also includes administrative updates and scheduling of future meetings.

financebudgetreserve-funds
✓ Decided: Finance Committee adjourned unanimously after FY26 budget discussion

The Stow Finance Committee met via Zoom, reviewed the FY26 budget, and noted no fund transfers or updates from subcommittees. Members were reminded to complete state ethics training, and a public hearing was scheduled for April 16. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote.

Tue Apr 1, 2025

Select Board

Board to hold executive session on personnel matter and approve past closed-session minutes

The Select Board is meeting solely in executive session to discuss a personnel matter concerning an individual's reputation, discipline, or complaints, and to review and vote on executive session minutes from December 2023, January 2024, and November 2024. No public business is scheduled.

select-boardexecutive-sessionpersonnelminutes
✓ Decided: Select Board unanimously terminates firefighter Yuris Mangolds' employment

The Select Board voted unanimously to terminate Yuris Mangolds from his fire department position, citing the Notice of Hearing dated March 24, 2025. The Board also approved and released executive‑session minutes from the December 4 2023, January 3 2024, and November 12 2024 meetings. Finally, the Board closed the executive session and adjourned the meeting.

Tue Apr 1, 2025

Conservation Commission

Public hearings on three property projects and emergency permit ratification

The Stow Conservation Commission will hold continued public hearings for three property projects: a swimming pool at 73 Kingland Road, an addition and docks at 96-98 Pine Point, and an addition at 105 Barton Road. The commission will also ratify an emergency permit for beaver dam breaching on Potash Brook at Great Road and discuss an extension of the Lower Village Plaza temporary water emergency permit. Decisions on the hearings are expected tonight.

conservation-commissionpublic-hearingsemergency-permitbeaver-damproperty-developmentwetlands
✓ Decided: Commission approved orders of conditions for three property projects

The Stow Conservation Commission unanimously approved the Orders of Conditions for 73 Kingland Road, 96-98 Pine Point, and 105 Barton Road. It also ratified an emergency permit to remove debris from a beaver dam on Potash Brook at Great Road and extended the Lower Village Plaza temporary water emergency permit through July 1, 2025. All motions passed with unanimous aye votes.

Tue Apr 1, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Trustees to vote on updated Public Comment Policy and By-Laws

The Randall Library Board of Trustees will hold second readings and votes on a revised Public Comment Policy and By-Laws. The board will also receive reports from the chair, library director, and treasurer, and conduct the annual review of the library director. Discussions include recognizing National Library Week and a possible change to the May meeting date.

librarytrusteespublic-comment-policyby-lawsannual-reviewnational-library-weekmeeting-schedule
✓ Decided: Board approved amended library by‑laws in second reading

The trustees voted to accept the Public Comment Policy and the amended library By‑Laws, each in a second reading. They also voted to table the director's annual review until clarification is provided. The March meeting minutes were accepted and the meeting was adjourned. Library Week staff‑treat funds will be collected by Maureen.

Tue Apr 1, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to review Cottages at Wandering Pond plans and MBTA multifamily zoning

The Planning Board will meet to review compliance and endorse plans for the Cottages at Wandering Pond active adult neighborhood. The board will also discuss multifamily zoning related to MBTA Communities and the Lower Village Public Water Supply Vulnerability Study.

zoninghousingwater-supplyspecial-permitsmbta-communities
✓ Decided: Board approved Cottages at Wandering Pond special permit and stream crossing compliance

The Planning Board voted to approve compliance with stream crossing standards and to endorse the special permit for the Cottages at Wandering Pond active‑adult neighborhood. The minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting were also approved. The board decided to keep one non‑voting associate member for now. An adjournment motion was passed.

Tue Mar 25, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to discuss Lower Village Water Study and Stow Acres project

The Select Board will hear a presentation on the Lower Village Water Study by Stantec and receive an update on the Stow Acres Conservation and Recreation Project. The board is also set to vote on appointments for a Veterans Service Officer and a Firefighter/EMT. The agenda includes public comment, board updates, and approval of March 11 meeting minutes.

select-boardwater-studyconservationrecreationappointmentsbudget
✓ Decided: Board unanimously reappoints Veterans Service Officer and hires firefighter/EMT

The Select Board unanimously reappointed Joseph Jacobs as the Town’s Veterans Service Officer for a one‑year term beginning April 1, 2025. The Board also unanimously appointed Benjamin Glover as a firefighter/EMT through June 30, 2025. The minutes from the March 11, 2025 meeting were accepted. The meeting was adjourned at 8:28 p.m.

Tue Mar 25, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to attend Select Board meeting on water supply study

The Planning Board is scheduled to attend a Select Board meeting. The focus of the session is the Lower Village Public Water Supply Feasibility Study.

water-supplyinfrastructureplanning
Mon Mar 24, 2025

Cultural Council

Cultural Council to discuss Pompo Art Wall and grantee reception

The Stow Cultural Council will review and vote on past meeting minutes, welcome a new member, and discuss the Pompo Art Wall in collaboration with the Stow Conservation Council and the Stow Art Group. They will also plan next steps for a Grantee Reception and address outstanding administrative details.

cultural-councilartsgrantspublic-artmeeting
✓ Decided: Council approved prior meeting minutes and adjourned

The council voted to approve the February 10, 2025 meeting minutes with unanimous support and no abstentions. A motion to adjourn the March 24, 2025 meeting was also passed unanimously. No other formal decisions were recorded.

Mon Mar 24, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board to discuss FY2026 preliminary tax bills

The Stow Board of Assessors will discuss and potentially vote on routine invoices, meeting minutes, and various abatement reports for motor vehicles, boats, real estate, and personal property. A discussion on FY2026 preliminary tax bills is scheduled, along with an executive session for pending litigation and abatement applications.

assessorstaxabatementlitigationexecutive-sessionstow
✓ Decided: Board approved tax and abatement reports, including $184,887 motor vehicle commitment

The Stow Board of Assessors approved the meeting minutes and several tax‑related reports and commitments, each by unanimous vote. The board signed the Real Estate Abatement Report ($279.00) and the Exemption Report ($3,593.50). It then entered executive session for further discussion.

Mon Mar 24, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to attend MBTA Communities multifamily zoning forum

The Planning Board will attend a forum on Section 3A Multifamily Zoning, also known as the MBTA Communities requirement. The meeting consists solely of this forum attendance; no other business is scheduled.

zoningmbta-communitiesmultifamilyhousingforum
Thu Mar 20, 2025

Economic Development and Industrial Commission

EDIC to discuss plastic bag bylaw and possible styrofoam container ban

The Stow Economic Development and Industrial Commission (EDIC) will hear a presentation from the Green Advisory Committee on a proposed plastic bag bylaw and possible styrofoam container ban. The commission may vote on several items, including strategic plan elements, a mission statement, and whether to invite State Representative Kate Hogan to discuss business development. They will also discuss the announced sale of the Stow Shopping Plaza and review business data to guide future actions.

plastic-bagsstyrofoam-baneconomic-developmentstrategic-planningbusiness-developmentstow-shopping-plazastate-representative
✓ Decided: EDIC approved minutes, set website update, and scheduled future votes

The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes. Members assigned actions such as updating the EDIC website, inviting state representative Kate Hogan to a July meeting, and preparing a master list of town businesses. A vote on the consolidated mission, vision, and values statements was scheduled for the April meeting, and a welcome letter for the Stow Shopping Plaza sale will be drafted. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Thu Mar 20, 2025

Capital Planning Committee

Capital Planning Committee reviews FY26 requests and 5-year plans

The committee will review capital requests and five-year plans for the Planning Department and the Nashoba Regional School District for fiscal year 2026.

budgetcapital-planningschoolstown-planning
✓ Decided: Committee unanimously approves minutes and delays network switch replacement

The Capital Planning Committee approved the February 6 and March 6 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. The $205,342 Center/Hale Network Switch Replacement was postponed for one year. The committee then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

Wed Mar 19, 2025

Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

Bird Meadow Project RFP process and committee roles to be discussed

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will review the Bird Meadow Project document, including the Request for Proposal process and timeline, selection rubric and committee makeup, and define roles and responsibilities. Other business includes approving minutes, correspondence, and trustee reports. This is a working meeting to advance an affordable housing project.

affordable-housingbird-meadow-projectrfpselection-committeemeeting-procedureshousing-trust
✓ Decided: Trust approves RFP submission for Bird Meadow project

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust approved submitting the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Bird Meadow project to the town's procurement process, with changes to the announcement date and proposal deadline. The board also discussed the selection rubric and committee makeup, and later rescinded the motion to allow for final edits. The trust's account balance is $473,415.70.

Wed Mar 19, 2025

Open Space Committee

Committee to discuss updates and review priority projects

The Open Space Committee will approve minutes from February, receive reports on ethics training, comprehensive plan committee, and conservation department, and review priority projects. All items are for discussion or routine approval.

open-spacecommitteeminutesethics-trainingcomprehensive-planconservationpriority-projects
✓ Decided: Committee approved $930,000 for Randall Library foundation repair

The Open Space Committee unanimously approved the February meeting minutes after requested corrections. The Conservation and Preservation Committee approved a $930,000 grant for the Randall Library foundation repair, to be placed on the May Town Meeting warrant article. The committee then voted to adjourn the meeting.

Tue Mar 18, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee to discuss FY26 budget, Minuteman High School presentation

The Finance Committee will review and potentially vote on reserve fund transfers, discuss the FY26 budget including a presentation from Minuteman High School, and consider the public hearing process. The meeting also covers the submission of the 2024 Annual Town Report and routine committee updates.

budgetfinance-committeeschoolspublic-hearingtown-report
✓ Decided: Finance Committee accepts FY26 Minuteman budget presentation

The Finance Committee reviewed the Minuteman High School FY26 budget presentation, noting a $2.8 million assessment for Stow (2.99% increase). They accepted the committee's annual report and set a public hearing for April 16. No fund transfers required approval, and no other substantive decisions were made.

Tue Mar 18, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss MBTA Communities multifamily zoning mandate

The Stow Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a special permit for an auto service and tire repair shop at 124 Great Road. The board will also discuss a site plan modification for Stow House of Pizza at 148-155 Great Road, appoint voting and non-voting associate members, and continue its review of Section 3A Multifamily Zoning (MBTA Communities). Administrative items include minutes, liaison reports, the planning director's report, and public input.

planning-boardzoningspecial-permitsite-planmbta-communitiesmultifamilyhousingpublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Planning Board advances MBTA Communities zoning with East Lower Village preferred

The Planning Board made progress on the Section 3A Multifamily Zoning, agreeing to prefer the East Lower Village area, allow duplexes, townhouses, and triplexes up to 2.5 stories, require two parking spaces per unit, and pursue an Economic Feasibility Study to potentially increase affordability beyond 10%. The board also continued the public hearing for the auto service and tire repair shop at 124 Great Road to April 15, appointed Debbie Woods as Voting Associate Member and Allison Alter as Non-Voting Associate Member, and discussed modifications to the Stow House of Pizza site plan.

Tue Mar 18, 2025

Conservation Commission

Commission to review Lake Boon Dam repairs and residential site work

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding the Lake Boon Dam repair project and residential improvements at 25 Hallock Point Road. The body will also discuss warrant articles and an appraisal authorization for Rockbottom Farm.

conservationinfrastructurepublic-hearingslake-boon-damenvironmental-permits
✓ Decided: Conservation Commission approves Lake Boon Dam repair hearing continuation

The Stow Conservation Commission continued the public hearing for the Lake Boon Dam repair project to May 6, 2025, and approved an Order of Conditions for 25 Hallock Point Road. It also issued a Certificate of Compliance for 38 Wildwood, approved four warrant articles, and authorized $2,833.33 for a Rockbottom Farm appraisal.

Mon Mar 17, 2025

Comprehensive Plan Committee

Comprehensive Plan Committee to review survey results and priority strategy list

The committee will discuss results from the Vision, Core Themes, and Goals Survey, review the Priority Strategy List, and coordinate community outreach materials. No votes or binding actions are scheduled; the meeting is focused on ongoing planning work.

comprehensive-plancommunity-engagementsurveystrategyplanning
✓ Decided: Stow committee approves minutes, plans AI summaries for community boards

The Comprehensive Plan Committee approved its prior meeting minutes with minor edits and discussed strategies for the town's comprehensive plan. They agreed to postpone discussions on certain strategies and survey results to the next meeting. The committee decided to use AI to summarize core themes for public display boards and to have JM Goldson draft an impact statement strategy. No final plan decisions were made.

Mon Mar 17, 2025

Local Access Channel Advisory Committee

Committee to discuss Stow TV funding and studio relocation

The Local Access Channel Advisory Committee will discuss whether funds from Verizon and Comcast supporting Stow TV can be included in the town's investment planning, and revisit the possibility of using Stow Town Hall as a studio. They will also consider a quote from Ockers for updating recording equipment in the Pompo Community Room, and vote on a $1,000 scholarship for a Nashoba 2025 graduate.

local-access-channelstow-tvfundingstudioscholarshipverizoncomcastrecording-equipment
✓ Decided: Stow TV committee approves $9,171 portable camera system and $2,000 scholarship

The Local Access Cable Advisory Committee unanimously approved spending $9,171 for a portable camera system at the Pompo Community Center, replacing frequently broken permanent cameras. They also approved increasing the Nashoba High School scholarship from $1,000 to $2,000 for a student pursuing media or journalism studies. The committee discussed but took no action on creating a studio at Town Hall, with plans still unconfirmed. They also discussed drafting a letter of understanding with the Town Administrator about Stow TV's financial setup, with Lisa and Bob to draft a document for review.

Mon Mar 17, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

Community Preservation Committee reviews library historic work and SMAHT agreement

The committee will review a revised FY26 application for historic exterior work at the library. Members will also discuss a Memorandum of Understanding with the Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust (SMAHT) and review warrant articles for the Annual Town Meeting.

historic-preservationlibraryaffordable-housingtown-warrantbudget
✓ Decided: CPC recommends $930,427 for Randall Library restoration to Town Meeting

The Community Preservation Committee unanimously recommended the Library's revised application for $930,427 in funding for the restoration of the Historical Randall Library Building, to be presented at Town Meeting. The Committee also approved warrant articles for Community Preservation Reserves ($108,000 added to each of three buckets) and Community Preservation Expenses ($53,000). All votes were unanimous (8-0).

Thu Mar 13, 2025

Board of Health

Board of Health to review plastic bag ban bylaw and discuss accessory dwelling unit

The Board of Health will review a draft plastic bag ban bylaw and hear a presentation. They will also discuss an accessory dwelling unit at 64 Boxboro Rd. Other items include a PFAS update, a tobacco permit application at 368 Great Road, and permit renewals for tobacco and dumpsters.

healthenvironmentplastic-bag-banzoninghousingpfaspermits
Thu Mar 13, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Stow Council on Aging Board to meet March 13

The Council on Aging Board will meet to review minutes from February 13, 2025. The meeting includes reports from the Community Preservation Committee, Minuteman Senior Services, and the social worker, as well as updates on the food program and durable medical equipment.

seniorssocial-servicescommunity-preservationpublic-health
✓ Decided: COA board approves amended minutes, hears reports

The Council on Aging Board meeting was largely informational, with no formal votes on policy or funding. The board approved the February minutes as amended to include the Chair's report. Reports covered the Community Preservation Committee's recommendation to support the library's $930,000 request, the withdrawal of the Cemetery application, and updates on senior services, including tax preparation and the upcoming Elizabeth Brook Apartments move-ins.

Thu Mar 13, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Green Advisory Committee to vote on amended plastic bag article

The Stow Green Advisory Committee will hold a meeting on March 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Warren Room of the Town Building. The main action item is a possible vote on an amended plastic bag article. The committee will also receive updates on the Stow/Hudson heat pump initiative, the Climate Leaders application, and a review of the CAP Priority Actions spreadsheet.

green-advisory-committeeplastic-bag-banheat-pumpsclimate-action-planclimate-leadersenvironment
✓ Decided: Stow Green Advisory Committee appoints Mike Duclos as associate member

The Stow Green Advisory Committee voted 3-0 to appoint resident Mike Duclos as an Associate Member after he declined the open full member slot. The committee also approved the February 13, 2025 meeting minutes and re-confirmed the draft Plastic Bag Reduction Bylaw for the May 10 town meeting, both by 3-0 votes. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were updates on the heat pump initiative, CAP spreadsheet, and Climate Leaders application.

Wed Mar 12, 2025

Recreation Commission

Recreation Commission to discuss tennis reservation policy and seasonal programs

The Stow Recreation Commission will meet via Zoom to discuss updates on Randall Woods, spring/summer programs, a tennis reservation policy, and a TCP entrance sign. They will also consider approving minutes from previous meetings and address the Town Meeting-Kids Program. No binding votes or financial decisions are listed on the agenda.

recreationprogramstennisparkstown-meetingkids
✓ Decided: Recreation Commission approves minutes, discusses programs and policies

The Stow Recreation Commission met on March 12, 2025, and approved the previous meeting minutes with a minor wording change. They discussed updates on Randall Woods park, spring/summer programs, a new tennis/pickleball reservation policy, and a potential kids program during Town Meeting, but no major decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

Tue Mar 11, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to ratify dispatcher contract, appoint police sergeants

The Select Board will vote on ratifying a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the Stow Dispatcher Unit Local 206A (FY26–FY28) and consider appointing Robert Nelson and Josh Barriere as police sergeants through June 30, 2025. They will also hold a public hearing on early in-person voting and vote-by-mail options for the 2025 Annual Town Election, receive a presentation on the FY2026 financial state of the town, and discuss reaffirming prior anti-hate, antisemitism, and anti-racism statements.

policeelectionslabor-contractbudgetpublic-safetydiscriminationvoting
✓ Decided: Stow Select Board approves vote-by-mail for May election, ratifies dispatcher contract

The Stow Select Board voted unanimously to opt into vote-by-mail for the 2025 Annual Town Election on May 17, reversing the Board of Registrars' recommendation, and took no action on in-person early voting. The Board also ratified the FY26-FY28 dispatcher union contract, appointed two police sergeants, and reaffirmed its anti-hate, antisemitism, and anti-racism statements, with the anti-hate statement amended to include immigration status.

Tue Mar 11, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Stow traffic committee to consider 3-way stop at Boxboro-Packard intersection

The Stow Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will discuss and potentially vote on installing a 3-way stop at the intersection of Boxboro Road and Packard Road, criteria for temporary rumble strips, and a driving academy proposal at Minuteman Airfield. The meeting also includes administrative items such as reviewing correspondence and minutes.

traffic-safetyroadsintersectionsrumble-stripsdriving-academystowpublic-safety
✓ Decided: Stow traffic panel reviews rumble strip policy, rejects Boxboro/Packard stop

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee met and approved the February minutes. Members reviewed a draft policy for rumble strip placement, made edits, and will revisit it next meeting. A 3-way stop at Boxboro Road and Packard Road was discussed but will not be approved under MUTCD guidelines. No public input was received.

Mon Mar 10, 2025

Town Hall Building Reuse Committee

Committee to review draft recommendation on Town Hall reuse

The Town Hall Building Reuse Committee will review and discuss a draft summary and recommendation for the building's reuse, with a possible vote. They will also discuss a presentation to the Select Board and recap a prior event (MacBeth). The meeting includes approval of February minutes and election of a chair for the April meeting.

town-hall-reusecommitteestowpublic-meetingrecommendationsselect-board-presentation
Thu Mar 6, 2025

Capital Planning Committee

Fire & Rescue Dept. FY26 capital request & 5-year plan reviewed

The Capital Planning Committee will hear the Fire & Rescue Department's FY26 capital request and review its five-year plan. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and other business.

capital-planningfire-departmentbudgetfy26five-year-plan
✓ Decided: Fire Chief seeks $1.1M to replace Engine 12, committee discusses

The Capital Planning Committee discussed the Fire Department's FY26 capital request, including the $1.1M replacement of Engine 12, which has a three-year build time. No formal votes were taken on the requests; the only action was approving the Feb 27 meeting minutes. The committee noted that a quote is needed before Town Meeting.

Thu Mar 6, 2025

Historical Commission

Stow Historical Commission regular meeting with project updates

The Stow Historical Commission is holding a regular meeting to discuss meeting minutes, treasurer's report, building permits, and community preservation matters. Updates will be provided on the Cemetery Project, Randall Library Project, Stow's Artifacts, and the West School. The commission will also consider new members and correspondence.

historical-commissionstowmeetingcemeterylibraryartifactswest-school
✓ Decided: Historical Commission hears Randall Library CPA update, no major decisions

The Stow Historical Commission met on March 6, 2025, and took only routine actions: approving the February minutes and the treasurer's report. No substantive decisions were made. The commission heard updates on the Randall Library Community Preservation Act application and the withdrawal of a DPW request for cemetery wall restoration funds.

Wed Mar 5, 2025

Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

Stow Affordable Housing Trust to review Bird Meadow Project documents

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will review and potentially approve key documents for the Bird Meadow Project, including a Request for Proposal, Land Development Agreement, Purchase & Sale Agreement, and Memo of Understanding. The meeting also covers routine items: meeting schedule, approval of prior minutes, correspondence, bills and payments, and trustee reports.

affordable-housingbird-meadow-projectland-developmenthousing-truststowpublic-meetinglegal-documents
✓ Decided: Trust approves payments, empowers chair to finalize annual report

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust approved payments for minutes and legal services, and voted to empower the chair to finalize the annual report. The trust also discussed the Bird Meadow Lane project, including the RFP, LDA, and P&S, with plans to seek legal counsel on remaining questions.

Tue Mar 4, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee reviews preliminary Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Book

The Finance Committee is reviewing the preliminary FY2026 budget, which proposes total expenditures of $35,149,949. The Town Administrator has directed departments to limit budget increases to 3% over FY2025 approved amounts to minimize the taxpayer burden.

budgetfinancetaxesmunicipal-spending
✓ Decided: Finance Committee discusses 2026 budget, school staffing, and debt impact

The Finance Committee met on March 4, 2025, and approved the February 11 meeting minutes. They discussed the 2026 town and school budgets, noting the first $30M of high school debt is already affecting tax bills, with an $80M round next year and a third round to follow. No fund transfers required approval, and no formal budget decisions were made; the final school budget is expected by March 12.

Tue Mar 4, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission to review 189-unit residential development at 0 Randall Road

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding dwelling additions and a large residential development. The body will also discuss vegetation management and weed treatment reports. Decisions may be made on hearings for 98 Pine Point, 105 Barton, and 0 Randall.

conservationhousingzoningenvironmentpublic-hearings
✓ Decided: Conservation Commission approves Order of Conditions for 0 Randall Road development

The Stow Conservation Commission closed the public hearing and approved the Order of Conditions for the 189-unit residential development at 0 Randall Road, as amended. The Commission also approved redline changes for 164 Barton Road, accepted the Minuteman Airfield Vegetation Management Plan update, and continued public hearings for 96-98 Pine Point Road and 105 Barton Road to April 1, 2025.

Tue Mar 4, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

✓ Decided: Library trustees review finances, fundraising, and building updates

The Randall Library Trustees met on March 4, 2025, and discussed routine updates: the director reported on merchandise sales, a legislative breakfast, and brick mockups for the new building. The treasurer reported a Fidelity balance of $10,736.36 and a Bartholomew balance of $293,944.46. The Revitalize committee reported $110,000 raised, including $20,000 of a $75,000 matching gift, and postponed a funds disbursement. The board approved the February 2025 minutes (5 yes, 1 abstain, 1 absent) and scheduled a second reading of public comment guidelines for April.

Tue Mar 4, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board discusses MBTA Communities zoning and Stow House of Pizza site plan

The Planning Board will discuss and take action on several items including a request for modification of a site plan for Stow House of Pizza at 148-155 Great Road, zoning regulations for sheds and small accessory structures, and the Section 3A Multifamily Zoning (MBTA Communities) requirement. The board will also review minutes, correspondence, and receive reports.

planning-boardzoningmbta-communitiessite-planshedspublic-inputstow
✓ Decided: Planning Board defers Stow House of Pizza site plan modification to March 18

The Planning Board discussed a request to modify the site plan for Stow House of Pizza at 148-155 Great Road, including proposed landscaping changes and a potential 30-foot building extension. The Board requested a more specific plan showing which plantings would be removed or remain and the exact 30-foot line, and agreed to visit the site individually. The matter will be revisited on March 18, when the Board will determine if it is a major or minor modification and make a decision.

Mon Mar 3, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

Public hearing on amended ZBA Rules and Regulations with possible adoption

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to its Rules and Regulations, with a possible vote to adopt. The board will also review and possibly vote on a walkway plan at 56 Harvard Road, and discuss a draft policy for special permits and variances. Correspondence includes updates on legal cases and the town's subsidized housing inventory.

zoning-board-of-appealsrules-and-regulationspublic-hearingwalkway-planspecial-permitsvariancescorrespondence
✓ Decided: ZBA adopts new rules and regulations for permit applications

The Stow Zoning Board of Appeals adopted updated Rules and Regulations for special permits, variances, and appeals, effective April 7, 2025. The board also declined to approve the submitted walkway plan for 56 Harvard Road, pending a revised submission or formal request to modify the special permit. Discussions on a draft policy for special permits and variances and the process for reviewing special permits were continued to future meetings.

Mon Mar 3, 2025

Cultural Council

Stow Cultural Council to discuss partnership with local artists for art space

The Stow Cultural Council (SCC) and the Stow Area Guild of Artists (SAGA) will hold a joint meeting to discuss a potential partnership for a temporary art installation space at the Pompositticut Community Center (509 Great Road). No quorum is expected, and no voting will take place; the meeting is solely for discussion and exploration of recruiting and administering the space.

cultural-councilartscollaborationpublic-artstowcommunity-center
Mon Mar 3, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

Committee to vote on FY26 library and cemetery preservation projects

The Community Preservation Committee will consider revised FY26 applications for historic restoration and land preservation. The body will also review the CPA Project Spreadsheet for the Annual Town Meeting.

historic-preservationlibrarycemeteryland-preservationbudget
✓ Decided: CPC recommends $930,427 library funding application

The Community Preservation Committee voted unanimously to recommend the amended Library application for $930,427, which includes cost escalations and historic costs. The application was revised to remove duplicate brownstone repair line items and clarify cost delay items. The committee also discussed the CPC bucket allocations for Town Meeting.

Thu Feb 27, 2025

Capital Planning Committee

Capital Planning Committee to review FY26 requests for Conservation and Public Works

The committee is meeting to discuss the FY26 capital requests and five-year plans for two town departments. The session will focus on the Conservation Commission and the Public Works Department.

budgetcapital-planningconservationpublic-works
✓ Decided: Capital Planning Committee reviews FY26 requests, no votes taken

The Capital Planning Committee met to discuss FY26 capital requests from the Conservation Commission and DPW, including a $90K garage renovation, a $321K street sweeper, a $70K truck lift, and a $200K bridge repair. No formal decisions or votes were made; the meeting was informational, with the committee expressing skepticism about the sweeper purchase. The meeting adjourned unanimously.

Tue Feb 25, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to vote on police policy updates and discuss PFAS contamination at Lake Boon

The Select Board will discuss and possibly vote on updates to police policies, a special event permit for the town clean-up, and a PFAS update at Lake Boon. The board will also consider authorizing deficit spending for the snow and ice account and review a letter of support for the Central Mass Rail Trail. Appointments to several commissions and a recognition ceremony are scheduled.

select-boardappointmentspolice-policiespfassnow-and-icerail-trailclean-uprecognition
✓ Decided: Select Board approves police policy updates, appointments, and snow deficit spending

The Stow Select Board unanimously approved updates to police policies and procedures, appointed several residents to town boards and commissions, and authorized deficit spending for the FY2025 snow and ice account. The board also approved a special event permit for the annual town cleanup, signed a letter of support for the Central Mass Rail Trail, and discussed updates on MBTA Communities zoning and PFAS contamination in Lake Boon.

Mon Feb 24, 2025

Open Space Committee

Open Space Committee attends MBTA Communities Forum, no decisions

The Stow Open Space Committee will be attending the Planning Department's MBTA Communities Forum on February 24, 2025. The committee will not be formally meeting or making any decisions at this forum.

open-spacembta-communitiesplanningprocedural
Mon Feb 24, 2025

Board of Assessors

Stow assessors to discuss FY2026 re-evaluation, veteran exemption

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss the FY2026 re-evaluation of property values and consider a warrant article for a Veteran Exemption under Clause 221. Other business includes approval of invoices, minutes, and various excise and abatement reports. The board will also enter executive session to discuss pending ATB litigation and real estate abatement applications.

assessorsproperty-taxre-evaluationveterans-exemptionabatementexecutive-sessionstow
✓ Decided: Stow Board of Assessors approves $1.06M motor vehicle commitment

The Board of Assessors approved the first motor vehicle commitment of $1,060,973.22, along with abatement and exemption reports, membership dues, and a contract for a revaluation article. They also voted to send two articles to town meeting, including a consent calendar item for $39,900. No substantive decisions were made on abatement applications; a taxpayer was invited to a future meeting.

Mon Feb 24, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to attend MBTA Communities zoning forum

The Stow Planning Board will attend a forum on Section 3A Multifamily Zoning, also known as the MBTA Communities requirement. This is the only item on the agenda; no decisions or discussions are scheduled.

planning-boardzoningmbta-communitiesmultifamily-housingforum
Thu Feb 20, 2025

Comprehensive Plan Committee

Committee to review survey results on community vision and goals

The Comprehensive Plan Committee will meet to discuss results from the Vision, Core Themes, and Goals Survey and review a priority strategy list. They will also consider additional community engagement options and vote on the annual report.

comprehensive-plancommunity-engagementsurveygoalsstow
✓ Decided: Committee approves Phase III engagement funding proposal

The Comprehensive Plan Committee approved the proposed additional scope of work for Phase III engagement, which includes an asynchronous open house, pop-up events, and small group workshops. The committee also postponed discussion of survey results to the next meeting and accepted the annual report.

Wed Feb 19, 2025

Open Space Committee

Open Space Committee to review 2024 annual report and zoning updates

The Open Space Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and the 2024 annual report. The body will receive updates regarding the Conservation Department, the Community Preservation Committee, and planning issues including MBTA zoning.

open-spacezoningconservationplanningannual-report
✓ Decided: Stow Open Space Committee approves annual report, notes land transfers

The committee unanimously approved the January minutes and the 2024 annual report, pending a spelling correction and addition of new member Lesley Fulford. Updates were provided on Delaney Accessibility work, completion of five parcel transfers to the Conservation Commission, and the Higgins property transfer to Sudbury Valley Trustees. The committee discussed the Stow Acres North Course transition, including invasive species removal and potential wetland restoration funding, and noted interim regulations for Randall Woods Park.

Tue Feb 18, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission holds hearings on four local construction projects

The Stow Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to review construction requests and septic system installations. The body will also review a Planning Board memo regarding multifamily housing zoning.

conservationzoninghousingpublic-hearingsenvironmental-permits
✓ Decided: Conservation Commission issues permits for pool, septic, and park projects

The Stow Conservation Commission approved a memo to the Planning Board on MBTA multifamily zoning, issued Negative 3 Determinations for projects at 0 Randall Road and 126 Taylor Road, and approved an Order of Conditions for a septic system at 71 Bradley Lane. The public hearing for 73 Kingland Road was continued to March 18, 2025. No substantive decisions were made on the Shaw's Plaza fire suppression issue or Carver Hill violation, which were discussed as updates.

Tue Feb 18, 2025

Planning Board

Board to discuss MBTA Communities zoning and hear auto repair shop special permit

The Stow Planning Board will hold a public hearing for a special permit and site plan approval for an auto service and tire repair shop at 124 Great Road. The board will also discuss the Section 3A Multifamily Zoning (MBTA Communities) mandate, including results from a location survey sent to other town boards. Administrative items include review of minutes, reports, and correspondence related to landscaping plans at 148 Great Road and special permit compliance at 63-65 White Pond Road.

planning-boardpublic-hearingspecial-permitsite-planzoningmbta-communitiesmultifamily-housingauto-repair
✓ Decided: Planning Board continues 124 Great Road hearing to March 18

The Stow Planning Board voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the Auto Service & Tire Repair Shop special permit and site plan at 124 Great Road to March 18, 2025, without testimony, to allow the applicant to respond to the Town Engineer's comments. The board also discussed and revised the MBTA Communities zoning FAQ document, reviewed an updated timeline including a February 24 public forum, and approved minutes from January 14 and 15, 2025.

Thu Feb 13, 2025

Economic Development and Industrial Commission

EDIC to discuss strategic planning and initial priorities

The Economic Development and Industrial Commission will meet to determine its initial priorities and the process for developing a strategic plan. The body will also hear a presentation from Planning Director Valerie Oorthuys.

economic-developmentstrategic-planningtown-governmentplanning-board
✓ Decided: EDIC votes to record meetings and set monthly schedule

The Stow Economic Development and Industrial Commission voted unanimously to record future meetings and to meet on the third Thursday of each month. Members also agreed to draft mission statements for the March meeting and to add the Green Committee's plastics and styrofoam ban discussion to that agenda. No other substantive decisions were made.

Thu Feb 13, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Council on Aging Board to review monthly reports and minutes

The Stow Council on Aging Board will meet on February 13, 2025, to discuss routine business. The agenda includes approval of prior meeting minutes, liaison reports from community partners, and updates from the outreach worker and director. No votes on ordinances, budgets, or contracts are scheduled.

board-meetingcouncil-on-agingsenior-servicesstowmassachusetts
✓ Decided: COA Board approves amended Jan. 9 minutes, discusses budget and outreach

The Council on Aging Board approved the January 9, 2025 minutes as amended, with a unanimous roll call vote. The board discussed liaison reports, including Community Preservation Committee updates and Minuteman Senior Services uncertainty, and heard the Director's report on staffing, budget, and programs. No other formal decisions were made; most items were informational or discussion-only.

Thu Feb 13, 2025

Local Access Channel Advisory Committee

Committee to review FY26 Stow TV budget and 2024 annual report

The Local Access Channel Advisory Committee will discuss and potentially approve a revised budget for Stow TV for fiscal year 2026. The committee will also review and approve revisions to the 2024 annual report. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom.

budgetlocal-accessannual-reportstow
✓ Decided: Stow cable committee approves FY26 budget and annual report amendment

The Local Access Cable Advisory Committee unanimously approved the amended FY26 proposed budget, which includes a COLA increase on the salary line and reductions in Legal Services, Verizon Hot Spots, and Long Term Equipment. They also unanimously approved an amendment to the 2024 Annual Report to include information on where to view Stow TV budgets. The committee discussed future topics but took no other formal actions.

Thu Feb 13, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board of Assessors to discuss FY2026 re-evaluation and veteran exemptions

The Board of Assessors will review tax warrants, reports, and abatement applications. Members will discuss the FY2026 re-evaluation and a warrant article regarding the Veteran Exemption Clause 221.

taxesassessorsveteransexemptionsreal-estate
Thu Feb 13, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Green Advisory Committee to vote on sponsoring plastic bag ban article for town meeting

The Stow Green Advisory Committee will consider and vote on sponsoring a plastic bag ban article for the spring town meeting. The committee will also review and approve its annual report, and discuss updates to the CAP Priority Actions spreadsheet. Additionally, updates on the Stow/Hudson heat pump initiative and the Climate Leaders application are scheduled.

green-advisory-committeeplastic-bag-bantown-meetingannual-reportclimate-actionheat-pumpclimate-leaders
✓ Decided: Stow Green Committee approves updated plastic bag bylaw draft

The Stow Green Advisory Committee approved an updated draft of the Plastic Bag Reduction Article, revised the definition of 'reusable checkout bag,' and approved the Annual Report entry. They also approved a $348 reimbursement for artwork used in the Climate Action Plan. All votes were 4-0.

Wed Feb 12, 2025

Hale High School Fund Trustees

Hale High School Fund Trustees discuss investment strategy and library grant budget

The Hale High School Fund Trustees will meet to discuss the draft 2024 annual town report, review investment strategy policy, and consider the budget for the 2025 grant to the library. They will also receive an update on the library renovation project and approve prior meeting minutes.

trusteesinvestmentlibrarybudgettown-reportrenovationminutes
✓ Decided: Hale High School Fund Trustees approve 2024 annual report

The trustees unanimously approved the 2024 annual town report as printed and approved minutes from two prior meetings. They postponed investment policy changes until meeting with Michelle Newcombe, and discussed the library renovation's request for about $1 million in Community Preservation Funds.

Tue Feb 11, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee to vote on 2024 Annual Report

The Finance Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss and vote on the 2024 FinCom Annual Report.

financeannual-reporttown-administration
✓ Decided: Finance Committee approves three sets of meeting minutes

The Finance Committee met on February 11, 2025, and approved minutes from three prior meetings, each with minor corrections. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural, with discussions on minute-taking automation, Open Meeting Law, and the annual report.

Tue Feb 11, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Stow Traffic Safety Committee to discuss Boxboro-Packard 3-way stop and rumble strip criteria

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss criteria and locations for temporary rumble strips, rotation of speed feedback signs, and a potential 3-way stop sign at Boxboro Road and Packard Road. They will also review the Marlboro Road intersection realignment and the driving academy at Minuteman Airfield. The committee plans to approve its annual report.

traffic-safetyrumble-stripsstop-signsintersectionspeed-feedbackdriving-academyannual-report
✓ Decided: Stow traffic committee approves Marlboro Road intersection realignment

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee voted 4-0 to finalize and construct the Marlboro Road intersection realignment based on the reviewed plan. They also approved the 2024 annual report (3-0, with one abstention) and the January 22, 2025 minutes (4-0). Other items, including rumble strip criteria and a potential stop sign at Boxboro Road and Packard Road, were discussed but not decided.

Tue Feb 11, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to discuss PFAS remediation at former fire station, appoint new fire chief

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on two pole installations on Gleasondale Rd and discuss multiple items including ratification of a fire chief employment contract, 2025 annual election details, and a PFAS remediation update from the town's Licensed Site Professional for the former fire station on Crescent Street. The board is also expected to appoint Barry Evers as Fire Chief through June 30, 2028, and review the 2024 annual report.

appointmentspublic-hearingpfaselectionscontractsfire-departmentenvironment
✓ Decided: Stow Select Board appoints Barry Evers as Fire Chief through 2028

The Stow Select Board unanimously appointed Barry Evers as Fire Chief, Emergency Management Officer, and Forest Warden through June 30, 2028, and ratified his employment contract. The board also approved a Hudson Light and Power application to install two utility poles on Gleasondale Road, approved the 2025 annual election slate and polling hours, and approved the 2024 annual report. Discussions were held on PFAS remediation and a potential new cell tower, with no decisions made on those items.

Mon Feb 10, 2025

Cultural Council

Council to discuss long-term wall installation and SAGA partnership

The Stow Cultural Council will review and vote on December 2024 meeting minutes, discuss next steps for the SCC Art Show, and consider long-term wall installation plans along with a possible partnership with SAGA.

cultural-councilart-showwall-installationsaga-partnershipstowmassachusetts
✓ Decided: Stow Cultural Council approves SAGA partnership for art displays

The Stow Cultural Council approved a partnership with the Stow Art Group Association (SAGA) to create a committee for maintaining art displays at the Stow Community Center. The council also approved the December 2, 2024 meeting minutes and canceled its February 24 meeting, scheduling a placeholder for March 24.

Mon Feb 10, 2025

Town Hall Building Reuse Committee

Committee to discuss Town Hall building reuse recommendations

The Town Hall Building Reuse Committee will review a letter from the Historical Society and a draft committee summary and recommendation. The committee may vote on these items and will elect a Chair for the March meeting.

town-hallbuilding-reusehistorical-societymunicipal-facilities
Mon Feb 10, 2025

Lake Boon Commission

Lake Boon Commission to consider weed treatment budget

The Lake Boon Commission will review and vote on a budget request for weed treatment, discuss leadership, and plan spring maintenance for boats, buoys, chains, and lights. They will also approve outstanding minutes and review winter lake activity and year-end reports from Stow and Hudson.

lake-boon-commissionweed-treatmentbudgetmaintenancestowhudsonpublic-meeting
✓ Decided: Lake Boon Commission approves $23K weed treatment budget request

The Lake Boon Commission unanimously approved a $15,000 budget request from Stow and $8,000 from Hudson for weed treatment in fiscal 2025-6. They also approved minutes from three prior meetings, a leadership change effective June 1, 2024, and the draft Annual Report for 2023-24. No other substantive decisions were made.

Fri Feb 7, 2025

Local Access Channel Advisory Committee

Committee to discuss FY26 budget and video file policy

The Local Access Channel Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes from October and discuss the FY26 budget, the 2024 annual report, a policy on distributing video files, and an upgrade to the Pompositticut Community Room recording setup. The budget and policy are notable for impacting local access channel operations and content availability.

budgetpolicypublic-access-tvfacilitiesstow
✓ Decided: Stow cable committee approves FY26 budget with reduced hours

The Local Access Cable Advisory Committee unanimously approved the FY26 budget as presented, which includes reduced hours for the Access Coordinator and increased costs for live streaming and marketing. The committee also approved the 2024 annual report with suggested additions and discussed policies for distributing video files and upgrading the community room recording setup, but no final decisions were made on those topics.

Thu Feb 6, 2025

Board of Health

Board of Health to consider septic variance requests for 73 Crescent Street

The Stow Board of Health will hold a public hearing on variance requests from Title 5 and local regulations for a proposed septic system at 73 Crescent Street. The board will also hear a presentation on the Public Health Excellence Grant and discuss annual permit renewals for tobacco and dumpsters, as well as the FY26 budget. Minutes from May and June 2024 will be reviewed.

board-of-healthseptic-systemsvariancepublic-health-grantpermitsbudgetstow
Thu Feb 6, 2025

Capital Planning Committee

Police and Facilities departments present FY26 capital requests and 5-year plans

The Capital Planning Committee will hear presentations from the Police Department and the Facilities Department on their FY26 capital requests and five-year capital plans. No specific dollar amounts or project details are listed in the agenda. The committee may discuss and prioritize these requests for recommendation.

capital-planningpolicefacilitiesbudgetfy26stow
✓ Decided: Fire Chief seeks $1.1M to replace Engine 12; committee discusses

The Capital Planning Committee discussed the Fire Department's FY26 capital request, including the $1.1M replacement of Engine 12, which has a three-year build time. No formal votes were taken on the requests; the only action was approving the February 27, 2025 meeting minutes. The committee noted that a quote is needed before Annual Town Meeting and that the borrowing would not impact the town's financial standing.

Wed Feb 5, 2025

Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

Trust to review Bird Meadow Project documents for affordable housing development

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will review key documents for the Bird Meadow Project, including a Request for Proposal, Land Development Agreement, Purchase & Sale Agreement, and Memorandum of Understanding. The meeting also covers routine business such as approving minutes, bills, and trustee reports.

affordable-housinghousing-trustbird-meadow-projectdevelopmentcontractspublic-hearing
✓ Decided: SMAHT refines Bird Meadow project documents, approves prior minutes

The Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust met remotely and approved the December 11, 2024 minutes unanimously. The board discussed and refined documents for the Bird Meadow project, including the RFP, Land Development Agreement, Purchase & Sale Agreement, and MOU, with changes to language and terms. No final votes were taken on these documents; they will be finalized by the lawyer and further consulted with Leonardi Aray.

Tue Feb 4, 2025

Finance Committee

Finance Committee considers $25,000 transfer for fire vehicle repairs

The Finance Committee is reviewing a request to transfer $25,000 from the Reserve Fund to the Repairs Maintenance - Vehicles account. The funds are intended for unforeseen repairs to several pieces of fire apparatus.

budgetfire-departmentvehiclesreserve-fund
✓ Decided: Finance Committee approves reserve fund transfers for fire dept.

The Stow Finance Committee unanimously approved reserve fund transfers for fire department vehicle maintenance and related costs. The committee also discussed the FY2026 budget, noting challenges with school district funding and health insurance costs, and reviewed capital projects including the Lake Boon dam and library project.

Tue Feb 4, 2025

Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission to hear 189-unit development on Randall Road

The Stow Conservation Commission will hold three public hearings, including a Notice of Intent for a 189-unit residential development at 0 Randall Road. Other hearings cover a single-family house and accessory dwelling unit at 70 Walcott Street and a replacement septic system at 73 Crescent Street. The commission may also take action on these items and approve minutes.

conservationpublic-hearingdevelopmentseptichousingaccessory-dwelling-unitstow
✓ Decided: Conservation Commission issues Negative 3 Determination for 70 Walcott St

The Stow Conservation Commission approved minutes and issued decisions on two applications. It issued a Negative 3 Determination for 70 Walcott Street, allowing construction of a single-family house and ADU. It also issued an Order of Conditions for a replacement septic system at 73 Crescent Street. The hearing for the 189-unit development at 0 Randall Road was continued to March 4.

Tue Feb 4, 2025

Randall Library Trustees

Randall Library Trustees to discuss FY2026 budget and annual reports

The Randall Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the FY2026 budget and prepare CY2024 reports for the Town Annual Report. The board will also discuss public comment policy and reopening events.

librarybudgettown-reportpublic-policy
✓ Decided: Library trustees approve FY2026 budget and annual report

The Randall Library Trustees approved the CY2024 Town Annual Report and the FY2026 Budget, with the budget passing with one abstention. They also discussed building project delays and contentious issues with the contractor, and set fundraising merchandise prices. No public comment was made.

Tue Feb 4, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss Section 3A multifamily zoning mandate

The Planning Board will discuss the state-mandated Section 3A multifamily zoning (MBTA Communities), review town meeting timelines with the Town Moderator, approve the annual report, and discuss the work plan. They will also review correspondence, including a letter regarding 148 Great Road and notices from the Conservation Commission.

planningzoningmbta-communitiesmultifamilytown-meetingstow
✓ Decided: Planning Board approves 2024 Annual Report and updates work plan

The Planning Board approved the 2024 Annual Report as amended. They also updated their work plan, adding short-term rental bylaws (medium priority), accessory apartment outreach (low priority), and a sign bylaw review (medium priority), while declining to add cohousing bylaws. The board discussed MBTA Communities zoning, scheduling a public forum for February 24 and targeting September Town Meeting.

Mon Feb 3, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

ZBA to review revised rules, special permit policy, and shed zoning

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss and review draft updates to its Rules and Regulations and a new policy for Special Permits and Variances. Members will also hold a discussion on zoning regulations for sheds. Correspondence from the Conservation Commission regarding a public hearing on the Residences at Stow Acres project will be reviewed.

zoningrules-and-regulationsspecial-permitsvariancesshedsstow-acresconservation-commission
✓ Decided: ZBA schedules public hearing to adopt amended rules and regulations

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted to schedule a public hearing to adopt amended Rules and Regulations, pending staff edits. The board also authorized sending a memorandum to the Planning Board regarding concerns about the Zoning Bylaw for sheds. No other substantive decisions were made; a draft policy for special permits and variances was deferred to the next meeting.

Mon Feb 3, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC to vote on cemetery land preservation and stonewall repair on Brookside Ave

The Community Preservation Committee will consider FY26 applications for cemetery land preservation and stonewall repair on Brookside Avenue and Pompositticut Street, and a library restoration project. They will also discuss a Memorandum of Understanding with the Stow Municipal Affordable Housing Trust and vote on both items.

community-preservationcemeteryland-preservationlibrary-restorationhistoric-preservationhousing-truststow
✓ Decided: CPC reviews cemetery stone wall restoration, defers decision to March 3

The Community Preservation Committee discussed a FY26 application for land preservation and historic stone wall restoration at Brookside and Pompositticut Cemeteries, but took no formal vote on it. The committee suggested reworking the application to focus on historic preservation and possibly handling tree removal via a separate warrant article. The application will be revisited at the March 3 meeting with firm quotes. The committee also approved the January 6 minutes and the amended Town Report submission, both unanimously.

Tue Jan 28, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to discuss FY26 budget challenges and NRSD preliminary budget

The Select Board will discuss budget challenges, including a preliminary NRSD operating budget increase of 12.57% ($6,703,345). The board will also review library updates and potential communication towers on town property.

budgetschoolszoningaffordable-housinginfrastructurelibrary
✓ Decided: Select Board appoints three to boards, allows Verizon tower talks

The Select Board unanimously appointed Maria McFarland and Ruth Sudduth to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Allison Alter to the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust. It also voted unanimously to allow the town administrator to discuss leasing town property to Verizon for communications towers. The board heard updates on library renovation cost overruns and FY26 budget challenges, but took no action on those items.

Tue Jan 28, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss MBTA Communities multifamily zoning and White Pond Road issues

The Stow Planning Board will discuss several action items including a modified landscaping plan for Stow House of Pizza, zoning and permitting for White Pond Road, and the state-mandated Section 3A Multifamily Zoning (MBTA Communities). The board will also review correspondence and receive updates on a 189-unit residential development at 0 Randall Rd and other matters.

planning-boardzoningmbta-communitiesmultifamily-housingstow-house-of-pizzawhite-pond-roaddevelopmentconservation
✓ Decided: Planning Board requests revised Stow House of Pizza landscaping plan

The Planning Board discussed a request from Stow House of Pizza to modify its approved landscaping plan but found the proposed reductions too significant. The Board agreed to request a revised proposal that better aligns with the original intent, while ruling out a blanket cost cap and deferring any expansion or outdoor dining considerations until landscaping is complete. The Board also reviewed zoning and permitting issues on White Pond Road, discussed MBTA Communities multifamily zoning, and updated its work plan.

Thu Jan 23, 2025

Comprehensive Plan Committee

Stow Comprehensive Plan Committee to review priority strategies and annual report

The Comprehensive Plan Committee will meet to review a priority strategy list and the committee's annual report. Members will also discuss and potentially vote on additional community engagement options.

planningcommunity-engagementmunicipal-government
✓ Decided: Committee reviews strategy ratings, plans next engagement round

The Comprehensive Plan Committee reviewed the priority strategy list and discussed next steps, including a homework assignment to refine strategies rated as 'middle ground.' They approved the 12/30/24 minutes with amendments and discussed additional community engagement options, with JM Goldson to prepare a proposal with budget for the next meeting. No final decisions on strategies were made.

Thu Jan 23, 2025

Capital Planning Committee

Capital Planning Committee to organize for 2025 and review FY26 requests

The Capital Planning Committee will organize its membership for 2025 and review submitted capital requests for FY26. The meeting also includes an overview of NRSD existing conditions surveys.

capital-planningbudgettown-administrationinfrastructure
✓ Decided: Capital Planning Committee organizes for 2025, reviews FY26 requests

The committee unanimously elected S. Jelinek as Chair and E. DeLuca as Clerk. They discussed NRSD existing conditions surveys, raising concerns about cost and whether it is a capital item, and reviewed FY26 capital requests, questioning several items. No substantive decisions were made beyond organizational votes and approving the previous minutes.

Wed Jan 22, 2025

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee

Traffic Safety Committee to Consider Center School Crosswalk Request

The Stow Traffic Safety Advisory Committee will discuss and potentially act on a crosswalk request for Center School. The meeting also includes approval of the annual report, review of correspondence and minutes, member updates, and public input.

traffic-safetycrosswalkschool-safetyannual-reportstowpublic-meeting
✓ Decided: Traffic committee approves Dec. minutes, discusses crosswalk safety

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee approved the December 18, 2024 minutes (3-0, with one abstention) and adjourned unanimously. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and future agenda items, including a faded crosswalk at Center School, a possible 3-way stop at Boxboro and Packard, and rumble strip procedures.

Tue Jan 21, 2025

Recreation Commission

Recreation Commission to vote on adopting Stow Acres Interim Regulations

The Commission will discuss signage at Town Center Park and Gleasondale School lot, then hold a joint meeting at 7:30 pm to vote on adopting interim regulations for Stow Acres. The meeting also includes public comment and approval of prior minutes.

recreationsignagezoningpublic-hearingstow-acrestown-center-parkgleasondale-school
✓ Decided: Stow Acres interim regulations adopted by Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission voted 3-1 to adopt interim regulations for Stow Acres North Course, which will open for public use from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. The regulations include a no-dog policy that will be revisited, and permitting will be handled through the MyRec system. Other agenda items were tabled due to technical issues.

Tue Jan 21, 2025

Conservation Commission

Vote to adopt Stow Acres Interim Regulations at joint meeting

The Conservation Commission will hold a joint public hearing with the Recreation Commission to vote on adopting interim regulations for Stow Acres. The agenda also includes a request for a Certificate of Compliance for a Linear Retail project, revisions to Conservation Land Regulations, closure of Spindle Hill Trail, and discussion on accepting the Cottages at Wandering Pond open space. Annual license renewals for Taproot Farm and Noonan Field are scheduled for review.

conservation-commissionstow-acresinterim-regulationsrecreation-commissionconservation-landpublic-hearinglicensestrails
✓ Decided: Stow Conservation Commission adopts interim Stow Acres regulations

The Stow Conservation Commission, in a joint meeting with the Recreation Commission, unanimously adopted interim regulations for the North Course of Stow Acres, which prohibit dogs and set rules for trail use. The Commission also issued Certificates of Compliance for properties at 72 and 78 Pine Point Road, with conditions, and approved an Enforcement Order for Linear Retail to complete erosion work by May 31, 2025. Additionally, the Commission approved the annual report, conservation land regulations, and several licenses.

Thu Jan 16, 2025

Board of Assessors

Board of Assessors to review tax abatement and exemption reports

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss and vote on invoices and meeting minutes. The body will review reports regarding boat, motor vehicle, and real estate excise, warrants, and commitments. An executive session is scheduled to discuss litigation and various abatement and exemption applications.

taxesabatementsexemptionsreal-estate
✓ Decided: Stow Board of Assessors approves invoices, warrants, and abatements

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved three invoices, meeting minutes, a motor vehicle excise warrant, an abatement report, and a full abatement for a personal property account. The board also signed December 2024 reports and entered executive session to discuss abatement matters. No public comments or other business were conducted.

Wed Jan 15, 2025

Open Space Committee

Open Space Committee reviews MBTA Zoning, Stow Acres, and conservation updates

The committee will approve minutes and 2025 meeting dates, then receive updates on Delaney Accessibility, conservation department items (Rockbottom Farm, Stow Acres, Town Meeting articles), Community Preservation Committee, and planning issues including MBTA Zoning and the Comprehensive Plan Update. They will also discuss next steps for open space plan priorities such as accessibility and Stow Acres.

open-spaceconservationmbta-zoningcomprehensive-planaccessibilitystow-acresrockbottom-farm
✓ Decided: Open Space Committee approves minutes, discusses land transfers and housing plans

The Stow Open Space Committee approved the November 20, 2024 minutes as amended. They discussed several ongoing projects, including Delaney entrance improvements, CPC funding requests, and the transfer of four parcels to the Conservation Commission. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

Wed Jan 15, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss MBTA Communities housing with CHAPA

The Stow Planning Board will hold a discussion with the Citizens' Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA) regarding housing and MBTA Communities requirements. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the item is solely a discussion.

housingmbta-communitiesplanning-boarddiscussion
✓ Decided: Planning Board hears CHAPA presentation on MBTA Communities Act compliance

The Planning Board held a discussion session with CHAPA about the MBTA Communities Act (Section 3A) and Stow's compliance requirements. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was informational only. The board clarified that Stow must create a multifamily zoning district of at least 9.5 acres to accommodate at least 139 units at 15 units per acre, with no district smaller than 5 acres.

Tue Jan 14, 2025

Select Board

Select Board to set 2025 Annual Town Meeting and Election dates

The Select Board will discuss and possibly vote on scheduling the 2025 Annual Town Meeting and Election. The board is also considering a bond anticipation note renewal and a letter to the State Delegation regarding PFAS remediation for private well owners.

town-meetingpfaspoliceappointmentsenvironment
✓ Decided: Stow Select Board sets May 10 Town Meeting, May 17 election

The Select Board unanimously approved the dates for the 2025 Annual Town Meeting (May 10) and Annual Town Election (May 17), both at Center School, and opened the warrant from January 14 to March 28. The board also unanimously approved police appointments, policy updates, a PFAS support letter, and a bond renewal.

Tue Jan 14, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to review draft comprehensive plan and discuss Rockbottom Farm zoning

The Stow Planning Board will meet online on January 14, 2025. After reviewing minutes and receiving updates, the board will continue a public hearing for a special permit and site plan at 124 Great Road (auto service shop) to February 18 without testimony. The main discussion items include a zoning discussion for Rockbottom Farm, deliberation on a minor modification at 108 Great Road, and a review of draft strategies for the Comprehensive Plan.

planning-boardzoningcomprehensive-planspecial-permitsite-plan-approvalpublic-hearingrockbottom-farm
✓ Decided: Planning Board discusses Rockbottom Farm zoning, continues hearing

The Planning Board held a discussion on a proposed zoning change for Rockbottom Farm, which would allow limited housing in exchange for a conservation restriction, but took no formal vote. The board also continued a public hearing for an auto service and tire repair shop at 124 Great Road to February 18, 2025, and approved a minor modification for 108-118 Great Road. No other substantive decisions were made.

Mon Jan 13, 2025

Town Hall Building Reuse Committee

Town Hall Building Reuse Committee to discuss future use of town building

The committee will review a 2019 Existing Conditions Report and discuss the future needs of the building. Members will also discuss fundraising and methods for capturing public opinion.

town-hallbuilding-reusepublic-facilitiesfundraising
✓ Decided: Stow committee approves press release on Town Hall survey results

The Town Hall Building Reuse Committee approved a press release summarizing survey results, which favored keeping and using the building but not using town taxes for repairs. The committee also agreed to draft a proposal for the Select Board on next steps, with Maureen Crawford to chair the next meeting. The December 9 meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

Thu Jan 9, 2025

Board of Health

Board to consider septic variances at 103 North Shore Dr. and 71 Bradley Lane

The Board of Health will hold hearings on two septic system upgrade proposals requiring variances from state Title 5 regulations and local rules. At 103 North Shore Drive, variances include reduced setbacks from property lines, cellar wall, and well. At 71 Bradley Lane, variances involve setbacks from wetlands and an inground pool. The board will also continue discussion of a proposed plastic bag and Styrofoam cup ban.

healthsepticenvironmentplastic-banbudgetpermits
✓ Decided: Board approves septic variances for two properties

The Stow Board of Health approved four septic system variances for 103 North Shore Drive and three for 71 Bradley Lane, all related to replacing failed systems with nitrogen-reducing or alternative designs. The board also approved the FY26 budget as proposed and discussed a potential plastic bag and polystyrene ban.

Thu Jan 9, 2025

Historical Commission

Stow Historical Commission to meet January 9

The Historical Commission will meet to review building permits and reports. The body will also discuss the West School, Stow artifacts, and the appointment of new members.

historical-commissionbuilding-permitspreservationappointments
✓ Decided: Historical Commission backs library's revised CPC funding request

The Stow Historical Commission discussed the Randall Library's request for additional Community Preservation Act funds after unexpected structural issues and rising costs. The CPC suggested the library amend its application for more funds, and the library agreed to work on a revised application. No formal votes were taken on this matter. The commission also approved prior meeting minutes and the treasurer's report, and discussed other routine items.

Thu Jan 9, 2025

Council on Aging Board

Council on Aging Board to review and approve FY '26 budget

The Stow Council on Aging Board will meet to review and approve the FY '26 budget, receive liaison reports from the Community Preservation Committee, Minuteman Senior Services, and the Community Services Coordinator, and hear outreach worker updates on durable medical equipment, the food program, and events. The chair will also discuss upcoming ethics training.

council-on-agingbudgetsenior-servicesoutreachcommunity-centerethics-trainingstow-massachusetts
✓ Decided: COA Board unanimously supports proposed FY26 budget

The Council on Aging Board voted unanimously to support the proposed COA budget, which includes adding hours to the Social Worker's schedule and a longevity bonus for staff. The board also heard updates on the Elizabeth Brook Apartments addition, liaison reports, and social worker activities, but took no other formal votes.

Thu Jan 9, 2025

Green Advisory Committee

Green Advisory Committee to discuss plastics ban warrant article

The Stow Green Advisory Committee will meet to review and discuss several ongoing environmental initiatives. Items include an update on the Climate Leaders application, maintenance of the CAP Priority Actions spreadsheet, and a plastics ban warrant article covering plastic bags and polystyrene. The committee will also consider a potential town heat pump initiative and ways to improve resident participation.

environmentclimateplastics-banheat-pumpgreen-advisory-committeestow
✓ Decided: Stow GAC advances plastics ban warrant article for May town meeting

The Stow Green Advisory Committee met on January 9, 2025, and approved the December 12, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. The committee discussed progress on a potential plastics ban warrant article for the May town meeting, with plans to coordinate with the Board of Health, EDIC, and other town bodies. No formal decisions were made on the plastics ban or other initiatives; the meeting was primarily discussion and planning.

Wed Jan 8, 2025

Economic Development and Industrial Commission

Organizational meeting to elect officers and set goals for 2025

This is the annual organizational meeting of the Economic Development and Industrial Commission. Members will elect a chair and clerk, review open meeting law requirements, outline individual and committee goals, discuss initial action items, and set a regular meeting schedule. No substantive decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

economic-developmentcommissionorganizationalproceduralstow-massachusetts
✓ Decided: Stow EDIC elects chair and clerk, sets strategic plan as focus

The Economic Development and Industrial Commission elected Andy Crosby as Chair and Ginny Powell as Clerk, both unanimously. The commission discussed initial action items and decided to prioritize creating a strategic plan, possibly using a SWOT analysis. They also scheduled their next meeting for February 13, 2025, and agreed to meet with the Green Advisory Committee and Representative Kate Hogan in the future.

Tue Jan 7, 2025

Planning Board

Planning Board to deliberate special permit for Cottages at Wandering Pond

The Planning Board will meet online to discuss administrative updates and public input. The primary action item is the deliberation of a special permit for an active adult neighborhood on Athens Street.

zoninghousingspecial-permitplanning-board
✓ Decided: Planning Board approves Cottages at Wandering Pond special permits

The Planning Board unanimously approved the Decision for the Cottages at Wandering Pond Active Adult Neighborhood, Erosion Control, and Exterior Lighting Special Permits, Inclusion of Affordable Housing and Site Plan Approval off Athens Street. The approval was subject to findings and conditions as drafted and amended during the deliberation session, with final review by Karen Kelleher. The Board also scheduled a housing information session with CHAPA for January 15, 2025.

Mon Jan 6, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

ZBA to review rules and regulations in work session

The Stow Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a work session to discuss its own rules and regulations and review a draft of the 2024 annual report. The board will also consider a complaint and request for enforcement of zoning statutes from a resident. No public hearings or votes on specific projects are scheduled.

zoningboard-of-appealsrules-and-regulationsannual-reportenforcement
✓ Decided: ZBA approves 2024 annual report and rules amendments

The Stow Zoning Board of Appeals approved the 2024 Annual Report as amended and agreed to edits to its Rules and Regulations, including making stormwater reports a required application element. The board also discussed creating a policy document to guide when special permits or variances are needed. No zoning decisions were made.

Mon Jan 6, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

CPC to review FY26 Library Historic Entrance application

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to discuss and possibly act on several items, including an application for the Library's Historic Entrance project under the FY26 funding cycle. The agenda also includes the appointment of Tina McAndrews as Library Director, approval of prior meeting minutes, and follow-up on award letters and project status. No votes or decisions are recorded in the agenda; items are listed for discussion or decision.

community-preservationlibraryhistoric-preservationappointmentsminutesfy26-applicationsopen-meeting-law
✓ Decided: Library renovation funding request increased to $1M

The Community Preservation Committee discussed the escalating costs of the historic library renovation, now projected at $11.5 million, and directed the Library Director to amend the FY26 application to request the full $1 million available in CPC funds. The committee also approved the December 16, 2024 minutes unanimously and deferred several items to future meetings.