Westborough public meetings in 2023
345 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to approve meeting minutes and sign the warrant and commitment for FY 24 real estate and personal property. The board will also review the annual personal property posting. An executive session is scheduled to vote on statutory exemptions and Chapter Land applications.
- FY 24 Actual Real Estate and Personal Property warrant and commitment
- Annual Personal Property Posting
- Statutory Exemptions (Executive Session)
- Chapter Land Applications (Executive Session)
Open Space Preservation Committee
The committee will meet virtually to discuss several land parcels and conservation updates. The agenda includes a potential vote regarding Bowman St. and updates on the town's Open Space and Recreation Plan.
- Potential vote on Bowman St. and grant opportunity update
- Update on Community Preservation Committee
- Discussion of update to Open Space and Recreation Plan
- Hoccomonco Pond/Amazon trail easements at 50 Otis
- Conservation parcels at Brigham St./Cedar Swamp and Lackey St.
Select Board
The Select Board will consider 2024 license renewals for local businesses and the approval of the Town Manager's contract. The board will also discuss stormwater utility rates and the Library Repair Project's ADA compliance.
- Liquor license renewals for Cheng Du Restaurant (157 Turnpike Road) and Owen O’Leary’s (17 Connector Road)
- Hotel/Innkeeper license renewals for Extended Stay America at 1800 Computer Drive and 19 Connector Road
- Approval of Town Manager Contract
- Stormwater Utility Rate Setting presentation and discussion
- Local Initiative Program Compliance Certificate for 3 Stagecoach Circle
Treatment Plant Board
The Westborough Treatment Plant Board will meet to review outstanding invoices and receive reports from the Administrator and Plant Manager. The meeting includes updates on the Aeration System Rotor Replacement Project and capital planning.
- Review of invoices totaling $790,173.20
- Veolia invoice for $317,153.33
- Waterline invoice for $394,233.52
- National Grid invoice for $47,797.68
- Update on Aeration System Rotor Replacement Project
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to discuss hauler regulations with Irene Congdon/DEP and tobacco permit regulations. The board will also discuss a property owner dispute involving Tavolino.
- Discussion on Hauler Regulations with Irene Congdon/DEP
- Discussion on Tobacco Regulations and Tobacco Permits
- Discussion regarding Tavolino/Property Owner dispute
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to discuss hauler regulations with the DEP and tobacco permit regulations. The board will also address a property owner dispute regarding Tavolino.
- Discussion on Hauler Regulations with Irene Congdon/DEP
- Discussion on Tobacco Regulations/Tobacco Permit
- Discussion regarding Tavolino/Property Owner dispute
- Vote to approve November 19, 2023 minutes
Disability Commission
The Disability Commission will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss transportation options for those aged 65 and older or with disabilities. The meeting also includes a period for general discussion.
- Approval of Minutes
- Disabled/Senior 65+ Transportation Options
- General Discussion
Select Board
The Select Board will meet to conduct strategy sessions regarding contract negotiations and legal matters. The agenda consists primarily of executive sessions for personnel and litigation strategy.
- Contract negotiations with non-union personnel Kristi Williams
- Litigation strategy for Ferris Development Group, LLC. v. Town of Westborough
- Litigation strategy for Town of Westborough v. Westborough SPE, LLC
- Litigation strategy for Westborough SPE, LLC v. Town of Westborough
- Litigation strategy for In re: Westborough SPE, LLC (Bankruptcy Court)
Youth Commission
The Youth Commission will meet to review department updates and community engagement, including the Holiday Store. The meeting also includes a Youth Report.
- Community engagement and Holiday Store updates
- Youth Report
Sustainable Westborough
The committee will discuss the Climate Leaders Program Plan and provide updates on waste management and the Environmental Action Fair. A vote will be held on a warrant article to fund a Decarb engineering study.
- Vote on Warrant Article to fund Decarb engineering study
- Climate Leaders Program Plan discussion
- Waste Management Exploratory Committee update
- Westborough Environmental Action Fair update
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust will review the Housing Production Plan and discuss specific property projects. The body is reviewing an option to purchase 7 Lawtons Way and project concepts for 6 Beach Street and 45 High Street Ext.
- Option to purchase 7 Lawtons Way
- Project concepts for 6 Beach Street and 45 High Street Ext
- ATM Warrant Article for 45 High Street Ext
- Update on 3 Baylor project
- First Time Homebuyers Program update
Treatment Plant Board
The meeting scheduled for December 13, 2023, has been canceled and will be rescheduled.
Library Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees will discuss trustees up for re-election and receive updates on the building repair project. The meeting includes a scheduled vote on an ADA statement from the Library Building Committee.
- Vote on Library Building Committee's ADA statement
- Update on building repair project from Ed Baldwin
- Update on historical bird displays
- Discussion regarding trustees up for re-election
- Approval of November minutes and Treasurer's Report
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee will meet to discuss a UConn TAB Report and grant opportunities. The committee will also receive a project update regarding RECC.
- Discussion of UConn TAB Report
- RECC project update
- Discussion of grant opportunities
- Approval of meeting minutes from April 26, 2023, and June 14, 2023
School Committee
The Westborough School Committee will meet to vote on the 2024-2025 school budget. The meeting includes a presentation on the budget timeline leading to the Annual Town Meeting and a vote to accept a $630 gift donation.
- Vote on 2024-2025 School Budget
- Acceptance of $630 gift donation
- Budget timeline update to Annual Town Meeting
Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health
The Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health Advisory Board is meeting to discuss public health grants and staffing. The board will review data from the MetroWest Health Foundation and discuss strategic planning for substance use prevention.
- Review of Inter-Municipal Agreement for Public Health Excellence Grant
- Discussion of Opioid Settlement Funds and strategic planning
- Review of Community Equity Impact Survey and MetroWest Health Foundation data
- Update on DPH Intern Final Project regarding food insecurity
- Approval of September 20, 2023 meeting minutes
Cultural Council
The Westborough Cultural Council will review the monthly budget report and discuss potential new members. The council is scheduled to conduct a final review and vote on 31 proposals for the 2023/24 grant cycle.
- Final review and vote on 31 proposals for the 2023/24 grant cycle
- Monthly Budget Report presented by Maureen Johnson
- Discussion of Public Art Policy status
- Introduction of new WHS Student Liaisons: Emmalyn Tse & Diya Karthick
Library Building Committee
The committee will review schematic design updates from LPA A/Vertex and discuss HVAC systems. Members will also hold a discussion and vote regarding an ADA statement.
- Schematic design update - LPA A/Vertex
- ADA statement discussion and vote
- Discussion of Congregational Church meetings
- Format of public info sessions
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will review several land-use requests, including a new warehouse and the redevelopment of a former skating rink. The body will also hear requests for a residential swimming pool and wetland resource area confirmation.
- Continued hearing for a new warehouse and improvements at 165 Flanders Rd
- Continued hearing for redevelopment of former Westboro Skating Rink at 161 Milk St & 220 Turnpike Rd
- New hearing for an inground swimming pool and grading at 14 Kendall Dr
- New hearing for confirmation of wetland resource areas at 42-48 Lackey St
- Request for de minimis change to install a 10’ underdrain at West Park Dr
Central Massachusetts Veterans' Services District
The board will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss the district schedule and website. The meeting includes a review of the FMLA coverage plan and an update on apparel.
- FMLA Coverage plan
- District schedule
- Website follow up
- Apparel update
Select Board
The Select Board will meet remotely to conduct an executive session. The board will consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property located at 1500 Union Street.
- Executive session regarding real property at 1500 Union Street
Design Review Board
The Design Review Board will meet to consider two applications for building exterior modifications. The board will also conduct a discussion and review of current design guidelines.
- Application for new window/door installation at 3 Summer St
- Application for exterior changes to comply with energy codes at Del Webb Chauncy Lake, 11106 Peters Farm Way
- Review of current design guidelines
Planning Board
The Planning Board is holding public hearings and reviewing applications for several properties in Westborough. The meeting includes site plan reviews and requests for lot releases.
- Approval Not Required Plan for 12 Union Street & 59 Brigham Street
- Lot Release Request for Ridings II
- Site Plan Review for 161 Milk St
- Modification of Commercial Component of Special Permit for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
- Special Permit and Site Plan Review for 134 Fisher St and 165 Flanders
Capital Expenditure Planning Committee
The Capital Expenditures Planning Committee is meeting to discuss ratings for FY2025 capital project requests and funding recommendations. The body will also work toward finalizing the FY2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan.
- Discussion of FY2025 Capital Project Requests ratings
- FY2025 Capital Budget Funding Recommendations
- Finalization of FY2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan
- Approval of minutes from October 10, November 13, and November 20, 2023
Veterans' Advisory Board
The Veterans' Advisory Board is meeting to discuss veteran-related services and outreach. Members will review the ease of finding information on the new town website and discuss the use of the Community Center by veterans organizations.
- Review of the new town website veterans' pages
- Discussion of Community Center use by veterans organizations
- Flag deployment and retrieval updates
- VAB Clothing drive
- Veteran of the Year presentation review
Council on Aging Board
The Council on Aging is meeting to discuss the implementation plan and December programs. The board will also review the mini-bus situation and receive reports on the SMOC update and Tax Work Program.
- Implementation Plan
- December programs
- Mini-bus situation
- SMOC Update
- Tax Work Program
Open Space Preservation Committee
The committee will meet virtually to discuss and potentially vote on matters regarding Bowman St. and grant opportunities. The body will also review updates to the Open Space and Recreation Plan and several specific land parcels.
- Potential vote on Bowman St. and grant opportunity
- Update to Open Space and Recreation Plan
- Hoccomonco Pond/Amazon trail easements at 50 Otis
- Brigham St. / Cedar Swamp conservation parcel
- Lackey St. discussion
Select Board
The Select Board will meet remotely to conduct an executive session. The board will consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property located at 1500 Union Street.
- Executive session regarding real property at 1500 Union Street
Select Board
The Select Board will discuss the status of the Town Clerk position and the employment contract for the Town Manager. The board is also reviewing waste management recommendations and various personnel job descriptions.
- Consideration of changing Town Clerk position from elected to appointed
- Acceptance of deed for The Ridings Subdivision at Libbey Lane and Harvest Way
- Approval of Town Manager employment contract
- Request to amend compensation schedule for Recreation Referees
- Discussion of real property at 1500 Union Street in executive session
Economic Development Committee
The Westborough Economic Development Committee will discuss survey results from the University of Massachusetts Boston. The body will also review the Holiday Stroll, the Small Business Recovery Program, and the Ambassador Program.
- WMOB Survey results from Edward J. Collins, jr. Center for Public Management
- Review of Holiday Stroll
- Small Business Recovery Program discussion
- Ambassador Program discussion
- EDC Awards Breakfast nominations, categories, location, and speaker
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission will meet to discuss winter programs, the golf course, and community center updates. The body will also consider a request for off-season use of Haskell Field and a financial aid form.
- Vote on request to use Haskell Field during off season
- Possible vote on Financial Aid Form
- Updates on winter programs and the golf course
- Community Center updates
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)
The Local Emergency Planning Committee is meeting to elect officers and update membership lists. The body will discuss hazard mitigation planning and review a hazardous materials incident. A financial report regarding the purchase of hazardous materials mitigation supplies will also be presented.
- LEPC Officer Elections
- Hazard Mitigation Planning
- Hazmat Incident Review
- Financial Report on Hazardous Materials Mitigation Supplies purchase
- LEPC By-Law Changes
Board of Appeals
The Board of Appeals will meet to conduct a continued public hearing regarding a matter at 26 Arch Street. No other specific business items are listed on the agenda.
- Continued public hearing: 26 Arch Street – Rozita Alizadeh Saghati
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet to review progress on committee goals and the Town Meeting. The body will also discuss its 2024 meeting schedule and the frequency of quarterly meetings.
- Possible vote on use of remaining VHB funds
- Review of MPIC goals progress
- Establishment of 2024 meeting schedule
- Town Meeting review
Trustees of Soldiers Memorials
The Trustees of Soldiers Memorials will meet to review aspects of the New Cemetery Veterans Memorial and current year spending. The body will also receive updates on memorials located on School Street and Mt Pleasant St.
- Review of New Cemetery Veterans Memorial
- Budget review of current year spending
- Update on Lee and Cole Memorials on School Street
- Update on Raisis and Parker Memorials on Mt Pleasant St
- Inventory count of hand-held American Flags
Community Preservation Committee
The committee is meeting to conduct organizational business. This includes electing leadership and establishing the meeting schedule and application process.
- Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
- Review of Committee Bylaws and requirements
- Discussion of Community Preservation Plan and application process
- Establishment of committee meeting schedule
Select Board
The Select Board will meet remotely to hold an executive session. The board will consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property located at 1500 Union Street.
- Executive session regarding real property at 1500 Union Street
Capital Expenditure Planning Committee
The Capital Expenditures Planning Committee will review a Fire Department request for additional FY2025 funds. Members will discuss project ratings and funding recommendations to finalize the FY2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan.
- Fire Department presentation of additional capital request for FY2025
- Discussion of FY2025 Capital Project Request ratings
- FY2025 Capital Budget Funding Recommendations
- Finalization of FY2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan
School Committee
The School Committee will conduct a public budget hearing and review the Superintendent's final recommendations. The meeting includes a presentation on Nature’s Classroom and a capital planning update.
- Public budget hearing
- Superintendent’s final budget recommendations
- Nature’s Classroom summary presentation
- Capital planning update
- Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy regarding an AFSCME Council 93, Local 1709 grievance
School Committee
The School Committee is holding a public hearing regarding the budget. No other specific agenda items are listed in the provided document.
- Public hearing on the budget
Historical Commission
The Historical Commission will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss updates regarding the Design Review Board and Planning Board.
- Approval of October 25, 2023 meeting minutes
- Discussion regarding Design Review Board meetings
- Discussion regarding Planning Board meetings
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee is meeting to vote on recommendations to present to the Select Board on December 5th. The body will also discuss community input and the transition to single-stream recycling at the Transfer Station.
- Vote on go-forward recommendations for the December 5th Select Board meeting
- Discussion on transition to single-stream recycling at the Transfer Station
- Update on Waste Connections/Harvey's contract discussions
- Review of last fiscal trash tonnage and year-to-date figures
- Selection of new Vice-Chair and Secretary
Library Building Committee
The Library Building Committee is meeting to discuss potential changes to the HVAC system within the ongoing Repair Project. The committee will also address any other building-related issues.
- Discussion of proposed HVAC system changes in the Repair Project
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to conduct a classification hearing. The board will also review and sign Gateway forms and LA5 documents.
- Classification Hearing
- Approval of Gateway forms
- Signing of LA5
Select Board
The Select Board will conduct a public hearing on FY2024 tax classifications and discuss the naming of athletic fields at the former Westborough State Hospital. The board will also consider a request to install a menorah on the rotary and review the Youth and Family Services delivery model.
- Public Hearing: FY2024 Tax Classification
- Request to install a menorah on the rotary by Rabbi Fogelman & Chabad of Central MA
- Naming of athletic fields at the former Westborough State Hospital
- Appointment of Greg Giroux to Zoning Board of Appeals
- Executive session regarding real property at 1500 Union Street
Westborough Housing Authority
The Westborough Housing Authority is meeting to review financial reports and maintenance updates. The board will discuss a possible action plan regarding the Housing Trust and review a kitchen rehabilitation project at Mayberry.
- Mayberry Kitchen Rehab & Replace Hot Water Heater (FISH #328051)
- Discussion of possible action plan regarding the Housing Trust
- Review of October Board Meeting Minutes
- Treasurer's reports including check registers from October 30 and November 7, 2023
Select Board
The Select Board will meet remotely to hold an executive session. The board will discuss the value or acquisition of a specific property and legal strategy regarding foams products liability litigation.
- Executive session regarding purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property at 1500 Union Street
- Executive session regarding Aqueous Film-Forming Foams Products Liability Litigation (MDL 2:18-mn-2873-RMG)
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The Active Transportation & Safety Committee will discuss updates regarding BWALT at 161 Milk Street and review reports from various town departments. The meeting includes an approval of the October 23, 2023, meeting minutes.
- Comments to Planning Board regarding 161 Milk Street
- Review of BWALT Story Map
- Updates from DPW, Engineering, and Community Development
- Reports from Conservation Commission and Public Safety
Youth Commission
The Westborough Youth Commission will meet to review department updates and a youth report. The commission will also discuss community engagement and volunteer opportunities for the Holiday Store.
- Approval of Youth Commission minutes
- Department updates
- Youth report
- Holiday Store volunteer opportunities
Board of Health
The Board of Health appointed a new Tobacco Compliance Officer and approved a sushi variance for Kenzo Sushi Steakhouse. The board also adopted a new mission statement and issued requirements for pest control and HVAC repairs at a property occupied by Tavolino.
- Appointed Paricallal Thillogovindian as Tobacco Compliance Officer
- Approved Sushi Variance for Kenzo Sushi Steakhouse
- Ordered HVAC sealing and building-wide pest treatment for Tavolino property
- Proposed hiring Jim Fredrick as a Town employee Public Health Nurse for 16 hours a week
- Discussed drafting new Hauler Regulations to qualify for grants
Capital Expenditure Planning Committee
The committee is hearing capital expenditure requests from the Recreation, Fire, Library, and School departments. Members will discuss project prioritization and next steps following these presentations.
- Recreation Department capital requests presentation
- Fire Department capital requests presentation
- Westborough Public Library capital requests presentation
- School Department capital requests presentation
- Discussion of project prioritization
Select Board
The Select Board will hold an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy and conduct negotiations with the DPW Union (SEIU Local 888). The board will also consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property located at 1500 Union Street.
- Collective bargaining with DPW Union (SEIU Local 888)
- Real property consideration for 1500 Union Street
Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization
The Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization is meeting to discuss transportation planning and administrative updates. The body may take action on highway list adjustments and the approval of a memorandum of understanding.
- Proposed Adjustment #1 to the FFY 2024 to FFY 2028 TIP Highway List
- Approval of the 2023 CMMPO Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
- Approval of the 2020 Urbanized Area Boundaries
- Update on migrant population transportation
- Federal Grants and One-Stop Awards updates
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust is meeting remotely to discuss a specific property. The body will consider an option to purchase the property located at 7 Lawton's Way.
- Option to purchase 7 Lawton's Way (Edinberg)
Library Board of Trustees
The Westborough Library Board of Trustees will review the Director's Report and receive an update from the Library Building Committee. The board is scheduled to vote on the approval of October minutes and the Treasurer's Report.
- Building Repair Project update from Ed Baldwin
- Discussion of historical bird displays
- Approval of October minutes
- Approval of Treasurer's Report
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee is meeting to discuss options for the next fiscal year and plans for community input. Members will review the transition to single-stream recycling at the Transfer Station and discuss the Waste Connections/Harvey's contract.
- Transition to single-stream recycling at the Transfer Station
- Waste Connections/Harvey's contract discussions
- Review of last fiscal year trash tonnage and year-to-date data
- Planning for next fiscal year and community input
School Committee
The School Committee will receive a third budget presentation featuring an initial draft. The meeting also includes a capital presentation and a vote to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy.
- Budget Presentation #3 (Initial Draft)
- Capital Presentation
- Approval of Meeting Minutes from 11/01/23
- Approval of Tri-Board Budget Meeting Minutes
- Executive session regarding collective bargaining or litigation strategy
Library Building Committee
The committee will review Scope Scenario 1A for the Library Repair Study and discuss potential roof repair or restoration with Stone Gabriel Engineering. The meeting also includes updates on the library repair project website and other building-related issues.
- Review of Library Repair Study Scope Scenario 1A
- Discussion of possible roof repair/restoration with Stone Gabriel Engineering
- Update on the status of the library repair project website
- Approval of minutes from 8/29, 9/12, 10/3, and 10/20
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several development projects and a request to amend a home project. The body will also discuss and vote on accepting care and custody of open space parcels at 0 Harvest Way.
- Proposed commercial building and improvements at 165 Flanders Rd
- Redevelopment of former Westboro Skating Rink at 161 Milk St & 220 Turnpike Rd
- Proposed 40-house transit-oriented village at 134 Fisher St
- Driveway extension and landscaping amendment at 37 Belknap St
- Vote to accept care and custody of open space parcels at 0 Harvest Way
Central Massachusetts Veterans' Services District
The board will meet remotely to discuss financial planning and administrative updates. Key agenda items include the finalization of the FY25 budget and a review of FY23 expenses.
- FY25 budget finalization
- Review of FY23 previous years expenses
- CMVSD website design update
Select Board
The Select Board will swear in a new police chief and discuss a Home Rule Petition to amend the Town Charter. The meeting includes reports on youth services, the golf club building committee, and a right of first refusal for 7 Lawtons Way.
- Swearing in of Police Chief Todd Minardi
- Home Rule Petition to amend Town Charter Article 3, Section 3-2
- Right of First Refusal for 7 Lawtons Way
- Appointment of Richard Strecker to WRTA Advisory Board
- Appointment of Nathan Askew to Waste Management Exploratory Committee
Design Review Board
The Westborough Design Review Board will meet to discuss three specific project applications. The board will review requests for installations and signage, as well as a plan update for a multi-phase project.
- New window/door installation application at 3 Summer St
- Sign application for Westborough Inn at 4 Boardman
- Revised plans for Phase 2 at Village Commons, 1 Gleason St
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will conduct public hearings for several site plan reviews and special permits. The board will also discuss the Downtown Master Plan and the adoption of rules for performance security deposits.
- Site Plan Review Application at 161 Milk St
- Modification of Commercial Component of Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
- Special Permit and Site Plan Review Application at 134 Fisher St
- Site Plan Review Application at 0 Bridle Lane
- Public Hearing for Adoption of Rules for Deposit of a Performance Security per MGL CH. 44 Sect. 53G 4
Economic Development Committee
The Westborough Economic Development Committee will meet to review a tax classification letter. The meeting includes time for other business before adjournment.
- Tax Classification Letter presented by Mark Zepf
Sustainable Westborough
Sustainable Westborough will meet to review the Climate Leaders Program Plan and conduct a website demo. The body will also discuss the Westborough Environmental Action Fair and appoint a representative to the Waste Management Exploratory Committee.
- Climate Leaders Program Plan
- Website demo and next steps
- Westborough Environmental Action Fair update
- Appointment of Waste Management Exploratory Committee representative
Capital Expenditure Planning Committee
The committee is meeting to review capital requests from the Police Department and the Department of Public Works. The session includes an election of a chair and a review of the capital planning process.
- Police Department capital requests presentation by Chief Todd Minardi
- Department of Public Works capital requests presentation by Director Chris Payant
- Election of Committee Chair
- Approval of October 10, 2023 and April 13, 2023 meeting minutes
Veterans' Advisory Board
The board is meeting to review lessons from Veterans Day and discuss the selection of the Veteran of the Year. Members will also address the use of the Community Center by veterans organizations and updates to the town website and social media.
- Review of Veterans Day activities
- Announcement of Veteran of the Year selection and presentation date
- Discussion of Community Center use by veterans organizations
- Updates to the new town website and Facebook announcements
- VAB Clothing drive
Council on Aging Board
The Westborough Council on Aging is meeting to review the implementation plan for a needs assessment. The board will also discuss the FY'25 budget and plans for December.
- Implementation Plan for Needs Assessment
- FY'25 Budget
- Holiday Fair
- Minutes from October 16, 2023
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust will discuss project concepts for 6 Beach Street and High St. Extension. The body will also review the Housing Production Plan and a First Time Homebuyers Program.
- Project concepts for 6 Beach Street and High St. Extension
- Housing Production Plan review
- Rodgers Road Development board meeting report
- Level I/Level II Assessment for 3 Baylor
- Appointment of a representative to the Community Preservation Committee
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding notices of intent for several properties. The body will also discuss encroachment issues at 0 Ruggles Street.
- Hearing for new commercial building and improvements at 165 Flanders Road
- Hearing for new septic system at 245 Turnpike Road
- Hearing for pool, patio, and retaining wall at 6 Frances Drive
- Hearing for barn and infiltration unit at 250 East Main Street
- Hearing for aquatic management of Gables Pond off Bertis Adams Way
Treatment Plant Board
The Westborough Treatment Plant Board will meet to approve monthly invoices and receive reports from the Administrator and Plant Manager. Discussions will include the FY 25 budget and the Aeration System Rotor Replacement Project.
- Payment of $317,153.33 to Veolia
- Payment of $49,623.35 to National Grid
- Payment of $300.00 to consultant Jack Goodhall
- Review of FY 25 Budget
- Update on Aeration System Rotor Replacement Project
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee will meet to discuss local events and review the Design Review Board guide. The committee will also vote on a November 2023 grant award for The Movement Room.
- Vote on EDC Grant Award for The Movement Room
- Review of Design Review Board Guide/Manual
- Review of Main Street Trick or Treat
- Update on Holiday Stroll
- Discussion regarding a new EDC member at large
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission will meet to discuss field usage and golf course rates for 2024. The body will also review a financial aid form and receive updates on fall programs and the community center.
- Vote on 2024 Golf Rates
- Vote on request to use Haskell Field during off season
- Possible vote on Financial Aid Form
- Updates on fall programs and the golf course
- Community Center updates
Central Massachusetts Veterans' Services District
The board is meeting to finalize the FY25 budget and review an update on the CMVSD website design. The session also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- FY25 budget finalization
- CMVSD website design update
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee is meeting to discuss options for the next fiscal year and plans for community input. Members will review the transition to single-stream recycling at the Transfer Station and discuss the Waste Connections/Harvey's contract.
- Transition to single-stream recycling at the Transfer Station
- Waste Connections/Harvey's contract discussions
- Fiscal year trash tonnage and year-to-date data
- Plan for community input for the next fiscal year
- Review of the WMEC Charter
Planning Board
The Planning Board is holding onsite visits to prepare for site plan reviews. These visits are for informational purposes to observe site details; no testimony or discussion will occur.
- Site visit for 134 Fisher St Special Permit & Site Plan Review
- Site visit for 0 Bridle Lane Site Plan Review
Select Board
The Select Board will meet to approve and execute the contract for Police Chief Todd Minardi. The board will also hold executive sessions regarding personnel negotiations and the potential acquisition of real property.
- Approval and execution of contract for Police Chief Todd Minardi
- Contract negotiations with non-union personnel Kristi Williams
- Discussion of real property purchase, exchange, lease, or value at 1500 Union Street
Cultural Council
The Cultural Council will review 33 grant applications for the 2023/2024 cycle. The body will also discuss the Public Art Policy and review final results from the 2023 AIC online survey.
- Review of 33 grant applications for 2023/2024 cycle (over $33,000 requested)
- Review of 32 grant applications for 2022/2023 cycle (over $25,000 requested)
- Discussion of Public Art Policy status
- Review of 2023 AIC online survey final results
- Scheduling of grant performances including Chamber Music MetroWest, Northborough Area Community Chorus, and The Pete Levesque Quartet
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to conduct a valuation review. The board will then enter an executive session to discuss and vote on statutory exemptions.
- Valuation review
- Vote on statutory exemptions
Youth Commission
The Youth Commission will meet to discuss community engagement, the Holiday Store, and department updates. The body will also review a youth report and schedule future meeting dates.
- Community engagement and Holiday Store discussion
- Department updates
- Youth Report
- Scheduling of YC meeting dates
Library Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is meeting to review a building maintenance system upgrade and a scope recommendation from the Library Building Committee. Members will also hold preliminary discussions regarding the FY2025 budget.
- Building Maintenance System upgrade recap from October Town Meeting
- Library Building Committee Scope Recommendation by Ed Baldwin and Mary Johnston
- Preliminary discussion on FY2025 Budget
- Patron and staff requests for a lighted crosswalk at Parkman & West Main
- Approval of August minutes and Treasurer's Report
Historical Commission
The Westborough Historical Commission will meet to review and approve previous meeting minutes. The commission will also discuss matters related to the Design Review Board and Planning Board.
- Approval of August 23, 2023 meeting minutes
- Discussion regarding Design Review Board meetings/DuBose
- Discussion regarding Planning Board meetings/Mighdoll
- Approval of September 28 minutes
Select Board
The Select Board will review site plan overviews for 134 Fisher Street and 0 Bridle Path. The board is also considering the acceptance of a deed for Quick Farm Road and a letter of support for a housing bond bill.
- Site plan overview for 134 Fisher Street
- Site plan overview for 0 Bridle Path
- Acceptance of deed and acquisition of rights for Quick Farm Road
- Request for a letter of support for Housing Bond Bill
- Appointment of Fatema Noor to the Cultural Council
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The Westborough Active Transportation & Safety Committee will discuss committee comments for 161 Milk Street and receive an update on Otis Street. The meeting also includes updates regarding MassTrails grants and a Story Map.
- Committee comments to Planning regarding 161 Milk Street
- Otis Street update
- MassTrails grants update
- Story Map presentation
Sustainable Westborough
The committee will discuss planning for the 2024 Westborough Environmental Action Fair. Members will also receive updates on the Green Communities Annual Report and the Climate Leaders Program.
- 2024 Westborough Environmental Action Fair planning process
- Green Communities Annual Report update
- Climate Leaders Program update
- Sustainability Coordinator updates
- Future of Sustainable Westborough website
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to address resident concerns regarding mosquito spraying and provide updates on unsupported migrant families. The board will also review a condemnation order for a specific property and receive reports from the Director, Sanitarian, and Health Inspector.
- Condemnation order for 15 Mayberry Dr.
- Resident concern regarding mosquito spraying
- Update on unsupported migrant families
- Update on E.L. Harvey’s / Waste Connections
Planning Board
The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing for a special permit at 225 Turnpike Road and continue a hearing to modify the commercial component of a permit for Village Commons. The board will also discuss its fee schedule and 2024 meeting calendar.
- Public Hearing for Special Permit Application #2023-2 (Zoom Room at 225 Turnpike Road)
- Continuation of Public Hearing to modify Commercial Component of Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 (Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street)
- Approval of Tri-Party Agreement and Performance Bond Ridings IT
- Discussion on Fee Schedule
- Planning Board 2024 Meeting Schedule
Worcester Regional Transit Authority
The WRTA Advisory Board is holding a meeting via conference call and webinar. The agenda consists of procedural items including the Chairperson's comments, an Administrator's report, and public business.
- Chairperson’s Comments
- Business from the public
- Administrator’s Report
- Advisory Board Members Comments
Select Board
The Select Board is meeting to address outstanding business related to the Fall Town Meeting Warrant. The agenda is primarily procedural.
- Discussion of Fall Town Meeting Warrant outstanding business
Council on Aging Board
The Westborough Council on Aging will meet to discuss a needs assessment, respite programs, and Town Meeting items. The board will also vote on its support for the Community Center.
- Vote on support of Community Center
- Discussion of Needs Assessment
- Discussion of Respite Programs
- Introduction of new COA Members
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust will review updates on several residential projects and discuss a First Time Homebuyers Program. The body will also consider a letter of interest for the Senior Center property and a letter of support for the Massachusetts Housing Bond Bill.
- Project updates for 3 Baylor Avenue, 6 Beach Street, and 3 Stagecoach Circle
- Discussion of First Time Homebuyers Program
- Senior Center Property Letter of Interest
- Massachusetts Housing Bond Bill Letter of Support
- Special Fall Town Meeting on October 16
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee is meeting to review trash tonnage data and provide an update on contract discussions with Waste Connections/Harvey's. Members will also discuss options for the next fiscal year and plans for community input.
- Update on Waste Connections/Harvey's contract discussions
- Review of last fiscal trash tonnage and year-to-date data
- Discussion of go-forward options for the next fiscal year
- Planning for community input
Select Board
The Select Board will discuss real estate agreements and municipal energy contracts. The board is also considering whether to make the Town Clerk an appointed position and preparing for the Fall Town Meeting.
- Purchase and Sale Agreement for 12 Union Street, Building 1500
- Municipal Aggregation Contract Renewal presentation
- Right of First Refusal for 3 Stagecoach Circle
- Discussion on making Town Clerk an appointed position
- Beano/Bingo Permit request for St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church
Capital Expenditure Planning Committee
The Capital Expenditures Planning Committee will discuss and vote on two Fall Town Meeting Warrant Articles. Both items concern the acquisition and planning of a community center.
- Article 3: Community Center Property Acquisition at 12 Union Street
- Article 4: Community Center Due Diligence, Operating Costs, Community Engagement and Design
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust is meeting to discuss the Local Initiative Program. The body will make a recommendation to the Select Board regarding the town's option to purchase 3 Stagecoach Circle.
- Recommendation to Select Board regarding purchase option for 3 Stagecoach Circle
Select Board
The Select Board is holding a public information session to present a proposal for a Community Center. The meeting includes a presentation followed by a public question and answer period.
- Presentation on Proposed Community Center
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission will vote on supporting the Community Center Article for the Fall Town Meeting Warrant. The body will also receive updates regarding summer programs, the golf course, and the Golf Building Use Committee.
- Vote on Community Center Article for Fall Town Meeting Warrant
- Updates on summer programs
- Updates on golf course
- Updates on Golf Building Use Committee
Select Board
The Select Board will hold a public information session focused on a proposed community center. The meeting includes a presentation followed by a public question and answer period.
- Presentation on Proposed Community Center
Planning Board
The Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding zoning dimensional regulations and a special permit modification for Village Commons. The board will also receive presentations on a proposed community center, the Master Plan update, and Affordable Housing Trust warrant articles.
- Public hearing for M-1 District zoning regulations affecting Upton Road, Morse Street, and 131 Oak Street
- Town Manager presentation and vote of support for a proposed Community Center
- Public hearing to modify commercial component of Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
- Continuation of public hearing for site plan review application at 161 Milk St
- Presentation on Affordable Housing Trust Town Meeting Warrant Articles
Design Review Board
The Westborough Design Review Board will meet to discuss a sign application and general sign violations. The board will also receive an update on the status of Village Commons.
- Sign application for Kenzo’s Sushi Steakhouse Bar at 50 East Main St
- General discussion of sign violations
- Status update for Village Commons at 1 Gleason St
Sustainable Westborough
The committee will discuss FY 24 program plans for building energy, clean electricity, and Drive Green. Members will vote on requesting town action regarding federal funds for Solar for All and the endorsement of House Bill H.3852.
- Vote on feedback to MA DOER regarding federal funds for Solar for All
- Vote on endorsement of H.3852 to modify DPU regulations for Community Aggregation
- FY 24 Program Plans for Drive Green, Building Energy, and Clean Electricity
- Scheduling of Environmental Action Fair
Library Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees will discuss and vote on revisions to the library's Code of Conduct and updates to job descriptions. The meeting includes a report on the Building Maintenance System upgrade for the October Town Meeting.
- Vote on Code of Conduct revisions
- Vote on job description updates
- Building Maintenance System upgrade for October Town Meeting
- Approval of August minutes
- Approval of Treasurer's Report
Select Board
The Select Board will determine which articles to place on the Fall Town Meeting Warrant and hold presentations on a proposed community center. The board will also vote on the appointment of a Finance Director and the layout of Quick Farm Road as a public way.
- Vote to concur with appointment of Jason Little as Finance Director
- Vote to adopt Order of Layout of Quick Farm Road as a public way
- Discussion and presentations regarding a proposed community center
- Request to renew membership with the Central Massachusetts Veterans Services District
- Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Public Works Union
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee will meet to reassess implementation priorities and discuss funds for the Master Plan. Members will also review a slide presentation regarding Master Plan progress for Town Meeting.
- Reassessment of Implementation Priorities
- Discussion on Master Plan Implementation Funds
- Review of Town Meeting slide presentation on Master Plan progress
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Trust is meeting to review status updates and take action on several housing projects. Discussions include a first-time homebuyers program and a senior needs assessment.
- 3 Baylor Avenue: ground contamination and purchase & sale/closing
- 6 Beach Street project update
- WHA - Rodgers Road Development
- First Time Homebuyers Program discussion
- Community Center / Senior Center discussion
Select Board
The Select Board, Advisory Finance Committee, and School Committee are meeting to review budget closeouts and estimates. The boards will discuss preliminary FY2025 budget priorities and the process for the upcoming budget cycle. The meeting also includes updates on American Rescue Plan funds and Fall Town Meeting Warrant Articles.
- FY2023 Budget Closeout and FY2024 Estimates update
- Preliminary FY2025 Budget Pressures and Priorities
- Library Repairs and Renovations
- American Rescue Plan Projects and Funds update
- Fall Town Meeting Warrant Articles discussion
Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health
The Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health Advisory Board is meeting to review the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget and Workplan for the Public Health Excellence Grant. The board will also discuss community health surveys, vaccine clinics, and substance use prevention.
- Fiscal Year 2024 Budget and Workplan for Public Health Excellence Grant
- Community Health Equity Initiative (CHEI) Survey outreach
- Flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics
- DPH Intern Project update on food insecurity
- Opioid Settlement Funds and Central MetroWest Substance Abuse Prevention Collaborative
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will conduct a site plan review and a special permit modification. The board will also review meeting minutes and reports from other committee meetings.
- Public Hearing for Site Plan Review Application at 161 Milk St
- Continuation of Public Hearing to modify Commercial Component of Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
Recreation Commission
The Westborough Recreation Commission is meeting to hold a discussion regarding the Community Center. No other formal actions or votes are listed on the agenda.
- Community Center discussion
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to receive updates on unsupported migrant families and water protection at Sandra Pond. The board will also discuss mosquito spraying and the Household Hazardous Waste Day.
- Update on unsupported migrant families
- Resident concern regarding mosquito spraying
- Update on E.L. Harvey’s / Waste Connections
- Sandra Pond water protection update
- Discussion regarding Sapporo
Select Board
The Select Board will meet remotely to conduct an executive session. The session includes strategy discussions regarding multiple legal cases and contract negotiations with non-union personnel.
- Contract negotiations with Kristi Williams and Todd Minardi
- Litigation strategy: Ferris Development Group, LLC v. Town of Westborough, Lax Media, LLC, and Lax Media MA, LLC
- Litigation strategy: Town of Westborough v. Westborough SPE, LLC (Land Court Case No. 19 FL 000768)
- Litigation strategy: Westborough SPE, LLC v. Town of Westborough, et al. (U.S. District Court C.A. No. 4:23 CV12017-MRG)
- Litigation strategy: In re: Westborough SPE, LLC (U.S. Bankruptcy Court Case No. 23-40709)
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The Active Transportation & Safety Committee will receive updates on design and construction for Sections 1 & 2 of West Park Drive. The meeting also includes updates on BWALT public engagement, easements, and a Story Map.
- Design/construction updates for W. Park Dr. Sections 1 & 2
- Road striping updates
- Public engagement and easement status updates
- Resident inquiry regarding crosswalk signage at Fisher & Assabet
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Trust will receive status updates on several housing projects and discuss a First Time Homebuyers Program. The meeting also includes a review of budget and finance and preparations for a Fall Special Town Meeting on October 16.
- Status updates for 3 Baylor Avenue
- Status updates for 6 Beach Street
- WHA - Rodgers Road Development update
- Discussion on First Time Homebuyers Program
- Fall Special Town Meeting coordination for October 16
Planning Board
The Planning Board is holding an onsite meeting to prepare for a site plan review. This visit is limited to identifying site details such as boundaries and driveways.
- Site visit at 161 Milk St for site plan review
Youth Commission
The Youth Commission will meet to discuss a service delivery model and provide an update on community engagement for a school drive. The body will also review and approve minutes from May and June.
- Approval of May and June YC Minutes
- School drive update and community engagement
- Discussion of service delivery model
- Scheduling of YC meeting dates
The commission approved the minutes from May and June 2023. Members discussed a proposed service delivery model to contract with Shrewsbury Youth & Family Service for counseling and clinical groups, which would require a town vote to move budget funds.
- Approved May 2023 YC minutes (5-0)
- Approved June 2023 YC minutes (5-0)
Select Board
The Select Board is meeting remotely to hold an executive session. The board will consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property located at 1500 Union Street.
- Executive session regarding real property at 1500 Union Street
The Select Board voted to enter an executive session to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property at 1500 Union Street. The Board did not reconvene in open session following the executive session.
- Approved motion to enter executive session regarding 1500 Union Street (5-0-0)
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will discuss the Planning Department budget for FY2025 and hold public hearings for site plan reviews. The board will also vote on street acceptance and modifications to existing site plan decisions.
- Recommendation for street acceptance at Quick Farm Road
- Public hearing for 165 Flanders Site Plan Review Application
- Modification to site plan decisions for 54 Otis Street and 60 & 64 Otis Street
- Discussion on Special Permit and enforcement for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
- Security bond release for 128 Turnpike Rd
The Planning Board recommended the acceptance of Quick Farm Road as a public way and approved an ANR plan for 161 Milk and 220 Turnpike. The board also approved a de minimis site plan modification for 180 Turnpike to include a public access easement for the Boston-Worcester Airline Trail. Public hearings for 165 Flanders Road and Village Commons were continued.
- Endorsed ANR plan for 220 Turnpike Rd & 161 Milk St (5-0)
- Recommended layout of Quick Farm Road as a public way (5-0)
- Continued 165 Flanders Road public hearing to December 5, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved de minimis site plan modification for 180-182 Turnpike, including BWALT easement (5-0)
- Continued Village Commons Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 public hearing to September 19, 2023 (5-0)
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission will meet to discuss and vote on a pickleball policy and the renaming of State Hospital Fields. The body will also receive updates regarding summer programs, the golf course, and the Golf Building Use Committee.
- Vote on Pickleball Policy
- Vote on renaming State Hospital Fields
- Updates on summer programs
- Updates on golf course and Golf Building Use Committee
The Commission voted to rename the State Hospital Fields to Earl Storey Park, pending Selectboard approval. The board also adjusted the number of pickleball courts reserved for senior play. The Recreation Department provided updates on summer programs and golf course profits.
- Approved renaming State Hospital Fields to Earl Storey Park (4-0-0)
- Approved reserving six of eight courts at Nelson Pickleball Courts for Senior play during senior hours (4-0-0)
- Approved minutes from July 11, 2023 (4-0-0)
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The Waste Exploratory Committee is meeting to review trash tonnage and discuss the town-sponsored curbside program following news from Waste Connections. The body will also discuss enhancements to the transfer station and food waste drop-off locations.
- Review of last fiscal trash tonnage and YTD
- Next steps for town sponsored curbside program regarding Waste Connections
- Discussion on Transfer Station enhancements
- Discussion on food waste drop off locations
- Plan for waste ban items
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee discussed trash tonnage data and a meeting with Waste Connections/Harvey's. The committee reached a consensus to move forward with a town curbside program rather than seeking RFPs from vendors. Members discussed potential contract changes and the impact of maintaining a transfer station.
- Approved July meeting minutes
- Reached consensus to move forward with town curbside program instead of chasing RFPs to vendors
- Deferred June meeting minutes until the next meeting
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust is meeting to discuss how interest rates affect the anticipated subsidy for 3 Baylor Avenue. The body will also review and approve previous meeting minutes.
- Discussion of 3 Baylor Avenue subsidy and interest rate impacts
- Approval of August 10, 2023 minutes
- Executive session to approve July 10 and July 13, 2023 minutes
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust approved adjusting the Purchase and Sale Agreement for 3 Baylor Avenue to allow the subsidy to fluctuate with mortgage interest rates. The Trust also approved the minutes from the August 10, 2023, meeting.
- Approved minutes of August 10, 2023 (5-0)
- Reauthorized Chair or designee to sign Purchase and Sale Agreement and closing documents for 3 Baylor Avenue, allowing subsidy to adjust with interest rates not to exceed $172,000 (4-0)
Select Board
The Select Board will review the Fall Town Meeting Warrant and consider several personnel appointments and job classifications. The meeting includes discussions on the Lake Chauncy Study and the format for an Interim Police Chief presentation.
- Appointment of Lisa Clark as Treasurer/Collector
- Request to place a sign on public property for Golf Club Charging Stations
- Intent to layout Quick Farm Road as a public way
- Discussion of Fall Town Meeting Warrant
- Executive session regarding real property at 1500 Union Street
The Select Board approved the appointment of Lisa Clark as Treasurer/Collector and made changes to the job descriptions and classifications for the Economic Development Coordinator and Conservation Assistant. The Board also voted to begin the process of making Quick Farm Road a public way.
- Appointed Lisa Clark as Treasurer/Collector (5-0-0)
- Approved Economic Development Coordinator job description and added position to Classification Plan grade H-5 (5-0-0)
- Appointed Kristina Allen to the Community Preservation Committee (5-0-0)
- Appointed Bradbury Huff to the Veterans Advisory Board (5-0-0)
- Approved placement of two signs for Sustainable Westborough at 121 West Main Street until October 2, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Voted intention to lay out Quick Farm Road as a public way and referred to Planning Board (5-0-0)
- Approved amendments to Conservation Assistant job description and increased hours from 32 to 40 per week (5-0-0)
- Approved meeting minutes of August 8, 2023 (5-0-0)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee will meet virtually to review previous minutes and reassess implementation priorities. The meeting includes an update on historical preservation goals provided by Kris Allen.
- Reassessment of Implementation Priorities
- Update on Historical Preservation Goals from Kris Allen
The Master Plan Implementation Committee approved a project to create new historical plaques, starting with a memorial for the Rice boys capture. The committee also discussed updating the status of 204 Master Plan goals ahead of the October 16 Town Meeting.
- Approved project to upgrade historical signage in Town
- Approved minutes from 6/26/2023 (8-2-0)
Historical Commission
The Westborough Historical Commission will meet to discuss and potentially approve a back door ramp for the YWCA. The commission will also review meeting minutes and discuss Design Review Board and Planning Board meetings.
- Approval of YWCA back door ramp
- Approval of June 28, 2023 meeting minutes
- Discussion of Design Review Board meetings
- Discussion of Planning Board meetings
The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the June 28, 2023 meeting. Members provided reports on Design Review Board sign approvals and Planning Board discussions regarding a mosque and estate extension.
- Approved June 28, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
Library Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees will discuss updates regarding the library building repair project and a staff session with the architect. The board is also scheduled to vote on updates to job descriptions and review state information statistics from 2019-2023.
- Building repair project updates from the Library Building Committee
- Review of Annual Report of Information Statistics (ARIS) 2019-2023
- Vote on updates to job descriptions
- Public forum regarding library trees and parking
The Board of Trustees approved the June meeting minutes and the treasurer's report. Members discussed building repairs and an upcoming Town Meeting article for HVAC upgrades. No decision was reached regarding the offline HVAC unit, with the board opting to consult FINCOM.
- Approved June meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved treasurer's report (unanimous)
- Terminated Request for Consideration process due to lack of response
Select Board
The Select Board will meet remotely to hold an executive session. The board intends to discuss legal strategies regarding two specific court cases.
- Litigation strategy regarding Ferris Development Group, LLC. v. Town of Westborough, Lax Media, LLC, and Lax Media MA, LLC
- Litigation strategy regarding Town of Westborough v. Westborough SPE, LLC
The Select Board voted to enter an executive session to discuss legal strategies regarding two court cases. The board did not reconvene in open session following the executive session.
- Approved motion to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy (4-0-0)
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will meet to discuss the Downtown Plan and housing zoning bylaws in the Highway Business District. The board will also review site plan modifications and special permit changes for specific properties.
- Modification to Site Plan Review Decision for 66 Otis
- Modification of Commercial Component of Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
- Discussion and possible vote on Master Plan Implementation Committee member size
- Discussion of Housing Zoning Bylaws in the Highway Business District
- Discussion of the Downtown Plan
The Planning Board approved a land consolidation plan for Turnpike Road and modified a site plan condition for Cold Harbor Brewing to remove a sidewalk construction requirement. The board also reduced the size of the Master Plan Implementation Committee and continued two public hearings.
- Approved ANR plan to consolidate 180, 182, and 208 Turnpike Rd from 3 lots to 2 (5-0)
- Approved modification to 66 Otis St site plan to remove sidewalk construction requirement (5-0)
- Continued 165 Flanders Road Site Plan public hearing to September 5, 2023 (5-0)
- Continued Village Commons (1 Gleason St) Special Permit public hearing to September 5, 2023 (5-0)
- Reduced Master Plan Implementation Committee size from 15 to 13 members (5-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from 6/20/2023 and 7/18/2023 (5-0)
Planning Board
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet to review previous minutes and reassess implementation priorities. The meeting will also cover any new or future business of the committee.
- Reassessment of Implementation Priorities
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission is meeting for a work session. The body will discuss the review and revision of regulations.
- Work session for Regulation Review & Revision
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet to review previous meeting minutes and reassess implementation priorities. The committee will also discuss any new or future business.
- Reassessment of Implementation Priorities
The meeting scheduled for August 14, 2023, was cancelled due to a lack of quorum. No decisions were made.
Veterans' Advisory Board
The Veterans' Advisory Board is meeting to review reports on flag placement and plan a flag retirement event for September 30. The board will also discuss updates regarding the Veterans Corner, Hometown Heroes, and Quilts of Valor projects.
- Flag Retirement Event scheduled for 9/30
- Flag Placement/Retrieval report
- Veterans Corner update
- Hometown Heroes update
- Quilts of Valor update
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust is meeting to review the status of several property projects and discuss a First Time Homebuyers Program. The body will consider authorizing the Chair to sign documents for 3 Baylor Ave. and 6 Beach Street. Members will also discuss a $950,000 transfer from Free Cash to the Trust for The Highlands.
- Authorization for Chair to sign Purchase and Sale and Closing documents for 3 Baylor Ave. and 6 Beach Street
- Proposed transfer of $950,000 from Free Cash to Trust for The Highlands
- Discussion of First Time Homebuyers Program
- Status updates for 45 High Street Extension and Rodgers Road Development
- Review of Small Grant Program
The Trust authorized the Chair to execute purchase, sale, and closing documents for two properties. The board also appointed a representative to the Community Preservation Committee and adopted a new official logo.
- Approved authorization for Chair to sign Purchase and Sale and closing documents for 3 Baylor Ave (4-0)
- Approved authorization for Chair to sign closing documents for 6 Beach Street (4-0)
- Named Mr. Behn as the Trust's representative on the Community Preservation Committee (4-0)
- Adopted the final version of the Trust logo (4-0)
- Approved July 10, 2023 public session minutes (4-0)
- Approved July 13, 2023 public session minutes as amended (4-0)
Golf Club Building Use Committee
The Golf Club Building Use Committee will meet to hold a discussion with the Westborough Department of Public Works (DPW). The committee will also review and approve minutes from the July 12th meeting.
- Discussion with Westborough DPW
The committee heard testimony from DPW Director Chris Payant regarding the condition of the golf building. Director Payant concurred with an informal recommendation to tear down and rebuild the structure rather than rehabilitate it. No final recommendation was voted upon during this meeting.
- Approved July 12 meeting minutes (7-0)
Veterans' Advisory Board
The Veterans' Advisory Board is meeting to discuss ongoing community programs and event planning. Members will review reports on flag placement and the upcoming flag retirement event.
- Flag Retirement Event scheduled for 9/30
- Flag Placement/Retrieval report
- Veterans Corner update
- Hometown Heroes update
- Quilts of Valor update
Select Board
The Select Board will review the hiring process for the Police Chief and amendments to the Finance Director's job description. The board will also discuss the roles of the Affordable Housing Trust and receive updates on Sandra Pond and the Emergency Assistance Shelter.
- Amendments to Finance Director job description
- Police Chief hiring process
- Affordable Housing Trust roles and responsibilities
- Potential real property action at 1500 Union Street
- Litigation strategy regarding Ferris Development Group, LLC and Westborough SPE, LLC
The Select Board decided to use a promotional process to fill the Police Chief position, requiring the internal candidate to give a presentation. The Board also approved amendments to the Finance Director job description and the previous meeting's minutes.
- Approved promotional process for Police Chief involving a presentation by the Interim Chief (5-0-0)
- Approved amendments to the Finance Director job description (5-0-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from August 1, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Entered executive session to discuss contract negotiations, collective bargaining, litigation, and real property at 1500 Union Street (5-0-0)
Select Board
The Select Board will review the police chief hiring process and the roles of the Affordable Housing Trust. The meeting includes updates on the Emergency Assistance Shelter and Sandra Pond. An executive session is scheduled to discuss contract negotiations and several litigation matters.
- Amendments to Finance Director job description
- Police Chief hiring process
- Updates on Emergency Assistance Shelter and Sandra Pond
- Potential real property action at 1500 Union Street
- Litigation strategy regarding Ferris Development Group, LLC and Westborough SPE, LLC
The Select Board decided to use a promotional process to fill the Police Chief position, requiring the Interim Chief to make a presentation and answer pre-submitted questions. The Board also approved updates to the Finance Director's job description and the previous week's meeting minutes.
- Approved promotional process for Police Chief involving a presentation and pre-submitted questions (5-0-0)
- Approved amendments to Finance Director job description (5-0-0)
- Approved August 1, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
- Entered executive session to discuss personnel contracts, union bargaining, litigation, and real property at 1500 Union Street (5-0-0)
Board of Appeals
The Board of Appeals will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding 8/10 Samson Drive. No other specific agenda items were listed for this meeting.
- Public hearing: 8/10 Samson Drive
Board of Appeals
The Board of Appeals will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding the property at 8/10 Samson Drive. No other specific agenda items were listed.
- Public hearing: 8/10 Samson Drive
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The Westborough Active Transportation & Safety Committee will discuss the rollout of road signage for the Vulnerable Road Users law and potential road striping on Flanders and East Main. The committee will also review resident requests regarding crosswalks and beacons.
- Road signage roll-out for Vulnerable Road Users law
- Discussion of road striping for Flanders, East Main, and others
- Resident request for rapid flashing beacon at West Main/Parkman crosswalk
- Resident request for crosswalk at West Main/Heywood
- Resident request for signage on Arch St by train bridge
The committee approved meeting minutes from May 15 and June 12, 2023. Members discussed potential road striping changes to widen shoulders for pedestrian safety and reviewed updates on the BWALT trail and local infrastructure projects.
- Approved 5/15/2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved 6/12/2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
Open Space Preservation Committee
The Open Space Preservation Committee will vote on leadership appointments and designees for other town committees. Members will discuss a Special Permit modification for Daania Dr. and review updates on several conservation parcels.
- Potential vote to support a density bonus for Daania Dr. (1 Gleason St.)
- Vote to reappoint Chair and Vice Chair
- Appointment of designees for the Community Preservation and Land Prioritization Committees
- Updates on Hoccomonco Pond/Amazon trail easements at 50 Otis
- Discussion of land purchase collaboration for Bowman St. and Westborough Rd.
The Open Space Preservation Committee did not meet on August 4, 2023, because there was no quorum.
Sustainable Westborough
The Sustainable Westborough committee will meet to elect officers and introduce a new Sustainability Coordinator. The body will also discuss the Master Plan Implementation Committee and the EV Expo 2023.
- Introduction of new Sustainability Coordinator
- Vote for Officers
- Follow up on Master Plan Implementation Committee meeting
- EV Expo 2023 update
- Review of FAS for the previous and upcoming year
The committee elected a Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary to lead the group. Members also voted to move their monthly meetings from Wednesdays to the third Monday of each month.
- Approved 6.21.23 minutes (6-0)
- Elected Pete Dunbeck as Chair (6-0)
- Elected Peter Flynn as Vice Chair (6-0)
- Elected Chery Thomas as Secretary (6-0)
- Changed meeting day to the third Monday of each month
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee will meet to elect new leadership positions and receive updates on local projects. The agenda includes a presentation from the Edward J. Collins Jr Center for Public Management and reports from the Planning and Community Development departments.
- Vote on New EDC Positions, Chair and Vice Chair
- Update on Pop-Up Project
- Update on EDC Grant Program
- Update on Economic Development Director Position
- Presentation by Morgan Clark from Edward J. Collins Jr Center for Public Management
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding development projects at 0 Barred Owl Dr. and 165 Flanders Rd. The body will also discuss the care of open space parcels and rules regarding dogs in conservation areas.
- New hearing for WPB File #5 (0 Barred Owl Dr.): installation of three subdivision roads, four stormwater/infiltration basins, utilities, and shared septic system
- Continued hearing for NOI File #332-0937 (165 Flanders Rd.): installation of a new commercial building and improvements at Cumberland Farms warehouse site
- Request for Certificate of Compliance for WPB File #1 (0 Barred Owl Dr.)
- Discussion on care and custody of open space parcels at 0 Harvest Way (Ridings II Subdivision)
- Discussion on adopting rules and regulations regarding dogs in conservation areas
Select Board
The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss legal strategies and real property. The session includes discussions on collective bargaining and specific court cases. The board will also consider the value or lease of property at 1500 Union Street.
- Collective bargaining strategy for Firefighter and Department of Public Works Unions
- Litigation strategy for Ferris Development Group, LLC. v. Town of Westborough
- Litigation strategy for Town of Westborough v. Westborough SPE, LLC
- Purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property at 1500 Union Street
- Litigation strategy for Residences of Westborough Station / Northland TPLP LLC at 100 Charlestown Meadows Drive
The Select Board approved amendments to the Classification Plan for cemetery and fire department staffing. The Board also authorized a peak response electricity contract and a winter lights agreement with the Rotary Club.
- Approved Cemetery Maintenance Craftsperson II job description and Classification Plan amendment (4-0-0)
- Approved amending Classification Plan to increase firefighter positions to 39 (4-0-0)
- Approved request for Finance Director Leah Talbot to carryover up to three weeks of vacation (4-0-0)
- Authorized Town Manager to execute Constellation Peak Response Adder program contract (4-0-0)
- Authorized Town Manager to execute Winter Lights display license agreement with Rotary Club (4-0-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from July 11, 2023 and July 24, 2023 (4-0-0)
- Tabled Police Chief hiring process to a future meeting
Historical Commission
The meeting scheduled for July 26, 2023, has been canceled. It is rescheduled for August 23, 2023.
Board of Health
The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate regarding meeting access and location. No specific action items, discussions, or decisions are listed.
The Board of Health appointed a new chair and approved meeting minutes. The board heard testimony regarding tobacco sales noncompliance at TJ Farms and Vape City and decided to withhold a Building Department permit for Hunan.
- Appointed Member Mahr as chair (3-0)
- Approved meeting minutes for June 20 and June 27, 2023 (3-0)
- Decided Health Department will not sign off on Building Department permit until Hunan appears before the Board (3-0)
- Denied request to waive fine for TJ Farms tobacco sales noncompliance
- Accepted Sanitarian's Report (3-0)
- Accepted Inspector's Report (3-0)
Disability Commission
The Westborough Commission on Disabilities will meet to approve previous minutes and hold a general discussion. Richard Strecker will present a discussion item regarding transportation recommendations from the Aging in Westborough Community Needs Assessment.
- Transportation recommendation of the Aging in Westborough Community Needs Assessment
Planning Board
This is a procedural agenda for the Westborough Planning Board meeting on July 18, 2023. It lists only the agenda and meeting materials, with no specific items for discussion or decision. The meeting packet is available as a PDF.
The Planning Board approved a density bonus allowing 19 additional units at Village Commons in exchange for the preservation of open space at 190-212 Oak Street. The board also accepted the withdrawal of the site plan application for the Oak Street parcel and continued hearings for other projects.
- Approved density bonus of 4 units per acre (19 total units) for Village Commons in exchange for open space preservation at 190-212 Oak Street (5-0)
- Accepted withdrawal of 190-212 Oak St Site Plan Review Application without prejudice (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 165 Flanders Road Site Plan Application to August 22, 2023 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing to modify Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons to August 22, 2023 (5-0)
- Appointed Michael Hally, Hazel Nourse, Cindy DuBose, Christian Hedrick, and Alison Giammarco to the DRB (5-0)
- Approved June 6, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Rescheduled August 15 meeting to August 22 and cancelled August 1 meeting (5-0)
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust will announce a bid award for 3 Baylor Avenue and discuss closing tasks for 6 Beach Street. The body will also evaluate the 45 High Street Extension and discuss a First Time Homebuyers Program.
- Bid award announcement for 3 Baylor Avenue RFP
- Closing updates and task assignments for 6 Beach Street
- Evaluation of 45 High Street Extension
- Discussion of First Time Homebuyers Program
- Right of First Refusal for Local Initiative Program at 2 Lawton's Way
The Trust awarded a redevelopment bid for 3 Baylor Avenue and allocated funds for a site assessment at 45 High Street Extension. Members also discussed a potential first-time homebuyers program and updates on the 6 Beach Street closing.
- Awarded 3 Baylor Ave redevelopment bid to MCO & Associates, Inc. (unanimous)
- Allocated up to $6,000 for site assessment at 45 High Street Extension by Waterman Design Associates (5-0)
- Authorized submission of a letter of support for pending housing legislation (5-0)
- Approved June 8, 2023 minutes (4-0)
- Approved June 22, 2023 Public Session 1 minutes (4-0)
- Approved June 22, 2023 Public Session 2 minutes as amended (4-0-1)
- Entered Executive Session to discuss real estate at 3 Baylor Ave and 6 Beach Street (5-0)
Design Review Board
The Westborough Design Review Board is meeting to consider a sign application. The board will review the request for a business located at 57 East Main St.
- Sign application for Hygge House Books, 57 East Main St
The Board approved a signage banner and two vinyl signs for Hygge Books at 57 East Main St. The approval is valid for 90 days from installation and requires the removal of Instagram or website information. The Board also approved the minutes from the June 22 meeting.
- Approved signage banner and two vinyl signs for Hygge Books for a 90-day term (3-0)
- Approved minutes from 6/22 (3-0)
Golf Club Building Use Committee
The committee is meeting to discuss and review survey results. Other business includes approving minutes from the June 7 meeting and setting future meeting dates.
- Review of survey results
The Committee discussed survey results from over 1,500 respondents regarding the Golf Club building. A preliminary recommendation for a community restaurant with outdoor dining, a pro shop, and function space was summarized. A final decision on whether to rehab or build a new structure is pending a meeting with the DPW director.
- Approved June 7, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee is meeting to discuss updates regarding a contract with Waste Connections for FY-2024 and the status of hauler RFPs. Members will also review potential DEP grants and plans for community input.
- FY-2024 contract discussion with Waste Connections
- Update on hauler discussions and RFP next steps
- DEP assistance and potential grants
- Planning for community input
- Concept of composting drop off points
The committee reached a consensus to recommend that the Select Board negotiate a multi-year curbside program and transfer station access with Waste Connections. The committee also recommended pursuing a Pay As You Throw (PAYT) system to reduce waste. FY24 contract terms were agreed upon at $60/ton.
- Agreed to FY24 contract terms of $60/ton
- Recommended Select Board negotiate multi-year curbside program and transfer station access with Waste Connections
- Recommended Select Board pursue Pay As You Throw (PAYT) for curbside and Transfer Station components
Treatment Plant Board
The Westborough Treatment Plant Board will meet to approve monthly invoices and receive reports from the plant manager and administrator. Discussions include the Aeration System Rotor Replacement Project and the FY 24 fee escalation.
- Invoices totaling $368,378.64, including $324,075.00 to Veolia
- Payroll for Administrator totaling $2,521.00
- Update on Aeration System Rotor Replacement Project
- Review of 5 Year Capital Plan
- Discussion of FY 24 Fee Escalation
Treatment Plant Board
The Westborough Treatment Plant Board will meet to review outstanding invoices and the Engineer/Administrator's report. Discussions will include the 5 year Capital Plan and the Rotor Replacement Project. The board will also discuss the NPDES Permit and cash flow submitted to the town.
- Outstanding invoices totaling $372,818.04, including $324,075.00 to Veolia
- Discussion of the 5 year Capital Plan
- Discussion of the Rotor Replacement Project
- Discussion of the NPDES Permit
- Review of the Annual Report and cash flow submitted to Westborough
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a commercial building at Cumberland Farms and DPW pipe installations at Bowman Lane. The body will also review enforcement orders and the care of open space parcels at 0 Harvest Way.
- Continued hearing for commercial building and improvements at 165 Flanders Rd.
- Continued hearing for DPW culvert and pipe installation at Bowman Lane
- Review and ratification of Notice of Violation for 1 & 3 Denny Street
- Review and ratification of Enforcement Order for 0 Harvest Way (Ridings II Subdivision)
- Certificate of Compliance request for 9 McTaggart St.
The Commission approved the use of original plans and granted regulatory waivers for a culvert replacement project at 9 Bowman Lane. It also ratified a Notice of Violation for 1 & 3 Denny Street and an Enforcement Order for 0 Harvest Way due to sediment release.
- Issued full Certificate of Compliance for 9 McTaggart St. (6-0)
- Continued Notice of Intent hearing for 165 Flanders Rd to August 1, 2023 (6-0)
- Approved original May 2023 plans for 9 Bowman Lane culvert project (6-0-1)
- Granted setback waiver (Section 5.1.1 and 8.1) for 9 Bowman Lane (6-0-1)
- Granted wetland replication ratio waiver (Section 5.5.6) for 9 Bowman Lane (7-0)
- Issued Order of Conditions for 9 Bowman Lane pending revised bid documents (6-0-1)
- Ratified Notice of Violation for unauthorized work at 1 & 3 Denny Street (7-0)
- Ratified Enforcement Order for sediment release at 0 Harvest Way (7-0)
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission will meet to vote on an appointment to the Community Preservation Act (CPA). The body will also receive updates on summer programs, the golf course, and the Golf Building Use Committee.
- Vote on appointing to CPA
- Updates on summer programs
- Updates on golf course
- Updates on Golf Building Use Committee
The commission appointed a member to the Community Preservation Act and approved previous meeting minutes. Staff provided updates on summer programs, the golf course, and the status of a dog park design grant.
- Approved minutes from May 2 and June 26, 2023 (3-0-0)
- Appointed Colleen Dowd to the Community Preservation Act (3-0-0)
Select Board
The Select Board will meet to discuss legal strategies and real estate matters in executive session. The agenda also includes general board correspondence and liaison reports.
- Litigation strategy regarding Ferris Development Group, LLC. v. Town of Westborough
- Litigation strategy regarding Town of Westborough v. Westborough SPE, LLC
- Purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property at 1500 Union Street
- Litigation strategy regarding Residences of Westborough Station / Northland TPLP LLC at 100 Charlestown Meadows Drive
- Approval of executive session minutes from June 27, 2023
The Select Board approved several American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funding requests for public safety, infrastructure, and education. The Board also adopted a new Remote Work Policy and extended an intermunicipal agreement for animal control services.
- Approved Remote Work Policy and updates to Personnel Policies (5-0-0)
- Awarded $174,000 ARPA funds for School Department security cameras at Mill Pond (5-0-0)
- Awarded $100,000 ARPA funds for up to 3 new Firefighters (5-0-0)
- Awarded $50,000 ARPA funds for DPW Lead Service Line Investigation (5-0-0)
- Awarded $22,294 ARPA funds for Fire Department Technical Rescue Equipment (5-0-0)
- Awarded $19,500 ARPA funds for 10 library desktop computers (5-0-0)
- Awarded $10,000 ARPA funds for Downtown Development Plan (5-0-0)
- Awarded $7,500 ARPA funds for Council on Aging Day Break Program (5-0-0)
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust is meeting via remote session. The body intends to enter executive session to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property at 3 Baylor Avenue.
- Discussion of real property at 3 Baylor Avenue
The Trust voted to enter an executive session to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property at 3 Baylor Avenue. The board determined that an open meeting would be detrimental to its negotiating position and did not reconvene in open session.
- Approved motion to enter Executive Session regarding 3 Baylor Avenue (4-0)
Board of Appeals
The Board of Appeals will conduct public hearings regarding three specific addresses in Westborough. The board may also discuss additional old or new business.
- Public Hearing: 27 Walker Street - Susdarshan Kapadnis
- Public Hearing: 21 O’Neil Drive – Simon Thach
- Public Hearing: 20 Crestview Drive – Pullarao Konakanchi
Design Review Board
The Westborough Design Review Board will meet on June 28, 2023. The board is reviewing a sign application for Baystate Commons located at 12 Union St.
- Sign application for Baystate Commons, 12 Union St.
The Board reviewed proposals for a main pylon sign and wayfinding signs at 12 Union St. Members expressed a preference for keeping stone facades on columns and discussed height limits for the main sign. No formal vote was recorded for the sign approvals; the only recorded vote was to adjourn the meeting.
- Agreed that awnings advertising products at Boston Ski & Tennis count as one wall sign
- Determined wayfinding signs would be addressed in a future Phase 2
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Historical Commission
The Historical Commission will meet to approve the May 24, 2023 meeting minutes. Members will discuss updates regarding Design Review Board and Planning Board meetings.
- Approval of May 24, 2023 meeting minutes
- Discussion of Design Review Board meetings
- Discussion of Planning Board meetings
Board of Health
The Board of Health is meeting to review and vote on a contract for Waste Connections / Harvey’s for fiscal year 2024.
- Review and vote for FY 2024 Waste Connections / Harvey’s contract
The Board of Health reviewed and voted on the waste contract for the 2024 fiscal year. The board approved the one-year contract with Waste Connections/Harvey’s.
- Approved Waste Connections/Harvey’s Waste Contract for FY 2024 (3-0)
Select Board
This is a procedural agenda with no substantive items listed. The only content is the agenda itself, with two PDF versions provided. No decisions, discussions, or public hearings are specified.
The Select Board approved employment agreements for Interim Police Chief Todd Minardi and Interim Treasurer/Collector Joanne Savignac. The Board also approved a liquor license transfer for the Double Tree Hotel and permitted due diligence for a potential affordable housing project. A motion to use an external search process for the Police Chief was denied.
- Approved employment agreement for Interim Police Chief Todd Minardi (5-0-0)
- Closed public hearing for TD&J International Auto Sales dealer license after voluntary surrender (5-0-0)
- Approved transfer of Section 12 All Alcohol Hotel license for Double Tree Hotel to Westdrive Operating VII LLC (5-0-0)
- Approved Management Agreement between Westdrive Manager VII LLC and Westdrive Operating VII LLC (5-0-0)
- Approved pledge of liquor license to Customer Bank (5-0-0)
- Continued Torito Mexican Restaurant liquor license hearing to July 11, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Authorized agreement for Joanne Savignac as Interim Treasurer/Collector (5-0-0)
- Permitted Affordable Housing Trust to perform due diligence at 45 High Street Extension (5-0-0)
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission will meet to elect a chair and vice chair. The body will also discuss and vote on summer plans for Lake Chauncy.
- Election of chair and vice chair
- Vote on Lake Chauncy summer plans
The Recreation Commission voted to open Lake Chauncy during business hours with 'Swim At Your Own Risk' signage because the department lacks sufficient lifeguard staff. The commission also elected new leadership following the resignation of the chairman.
- Elected Bethany Travis as Recreation Commission Chair (3-0-0)
- Elected Brian Kane as Recreation Commission vice-chair (3-0-0)
- Approved opening Lake Chauncy during business hours with 'Swim At Your Own Risk' signs (3-0-0)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet to review previous minutes and reorder implementation priorities. The committee will also discuss the role of Sustainable Westborough in the implementation process.
- Reordering of implementation priorities
- Discussion with Sustainable Westborough regarding the implementation process
The committee received a presentation from Sustainable Westborough regarding climate goals, electrification, and waste reduction. Members discussed reevaluating the priority of the 16 identified goals and updating the implementation tracker. No new policy changes were decided.
- Approved minutes from 6/5/2023 (8-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 8:47 PM (8-0)
Planning Board
The Master Plan Implementation Committee is meeting to discuss the reordering of implementation priorities. The body will also hold a discussion with Sustainable Westborough regarding their role in the process.
- Reordering of implementation priorities
- Discussion with Sustainable Westborough
The committee received a presentation from Peter Dunbeck regarding Sustainable Westborough's goals and timelines. Members discussed reevaluating the priority of the 16 identified goals and planning a community report for the town meeting. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved minutes from 6/5/2023 (8-0)
Disability Commission
The Westborough Commission on Disabilities will meet to discuss providing free assistance devices through the Senior Center. The commission will also discuss acquiring more reliable services for the town's disabled population.
- Discussion of providing free disabled assistance devices via the Senior Center
- Discussion of acquiring more reliable services for the disabled population
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust met to discuss real property acquisitions. The Trust voted to authorize the Chair to finalize and execute a Purchase and Sale Agreement for a property at 6 Beach Street.
- Authorization of $505,000 purchase of 6 Beach Street
- Executive session discussion regarding real property at 3 Baylor Avenue
- Payment of $5,000 deposit for 6 Beach Street
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust voted to authorize the Chair to finalize and execute a Purchase and Sale Agreement for the property at 6 Beach Street. The seller accepted an offer of $505,000, with a $5,000 deposit already paid. Closing is expected between July 17 and July 23, 2023.
- Approved authorization for Chair to finalize and execute Purchase and Sale Agreement for 6 Beach Street
- Approved purchase price of $505,000 for 6 Beach Street
- Approved move into Executive Session to discuss real property at 6 Beach Street and 3 Baylor Avenue (5-0)
Municipal Building Committee
The Municipal Building Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss the Forbes Municipal Building Renovations. The agenda includes a report from the Owner's Project Manager, Heery.
- Forbes Municipal Building Renovations: OPM Report (Heery)
Design Review Board
The Westborough Design Review Board is meeting to consider two sign applications and handle annual board reappointments.
- Sign application for LeDuc Art & Antiques at 5 Milk St, Unit 1
- Sign application for Baystate Commons at 12 Union
- Annual reappointments to the Design Review Board
The Board approved a sign application for LeDuc Art & Antiques. A proposal for new signage and awnings at Baystate Commons was deferred pending an onsite meeting to review materials and height.
- Approved sign application for LeDuc Art & Antiques at 5 Milk St Unit 1 (5-0)
- Tabled Baystate Commons sign and awning proposal pending onsite meeting
- Approved minutes from 5/9/2023 (5-0)
- Approved minutes from 5/31/2023 (5-0)
Library Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees will evaluate the Library Director and continue discussions on the library's Code of Conduct. The meeting includes an update on the Library Building Committee's June 20, 2023, meeting regarding building repairs.
- Evaluation of the Library Director
- Discussion of the Code of Conduct policy
- Building Repair Project updates from the 6/20/23 committee meeting
- Update on Request for Reconsideration for 'All Boys Aren't Blue'
The Board of Trustees approved the library's Code of Conduct as written, subject to review by the Town Council. Trustees also approved the May 24 meeting minutes and the treasurer's report. A request for reconsideration regarding the book 'All Boys Aren't Blue' was deferred to the August meeting.
- Approved May 24, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved treasurer's report (unanimous)
- Approved Code of Conduct as written pending Town Council review (unanimous)
- Deferred review of 'All Boys Aren't Blue' reconsideration request to August meeting
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee is meeting to review updates on RFP proposals and plans for waste ban items. Members will also discuss DEP grant applications and strategies for gathering community input once RFPs are received.
- Update on RFP Proposal and waste ban items
- Update on DEP grant applications
- Plan for community input upon receipt of RFPs
- Update on composting drop off locations
- Process for updating the committee web page
Sustainable Westborough
The committee will meet to discuss a presentation for the Master Plan Implementation Committee and provide an update on the Building Energy Program. The session includes a year-end reflection for 2022-23 and the review of new committee appointments.
- Presentation to Master Plan Implementation Committee
- Building Energy Program update
- 2022-23 Year-End Reflection
- New Committee Appointments
The committee approved the modified minutes from the May 17, 2023 meeting. Members reviewed presentation slides for the Master Plan Implementation Committee and discussed goals for clean electricity, building energy, and electric vehicle adoption.
- Approved 5.17.23 minutes as modified (9-0)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to review reports from the Director, Sanitarian, and Health Inspector. The body will discuss several updates and vote on the approval of the Boston Sports Club pool opening.
- Approval of Boston Sports Club pool opening
- Opioid Settlement update from Director
- Sapporo update from Food Consultant and Manager
- Discussion with Animal Control Officer regarding dogs near Sandra Pond
- Waste Management Exploratory Committee update from Dr. Ehrlich
The Board of Health approved the permit for Boston Sports Club and accepted the Sanitarian and Inspector reports. The Board voted to withhold sign-off on a Building Department permit for Hunan Kitchen until the owners appear before the Board. Discussions were held regarding a sewer blockage at Jackstraw Brook and the allocation of $80 million in opioid settlement funds.
- Approved Boston Sports Club permit (3-0)
- Voted to withhold Health Department sign-off on Hunan Kitchen Building Department permit until owners appear before the Board (3-0)
- Accepted Sanitarian's Report (3-0)
- Accepted Inspector's Report (3-0)
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will discuss the Downtown Plan and housing zoning bylaws for the Highway Business District. The board will also hold public hearings and vote on security bond releases for several local developments.
- Housing Zoning Bylaws in the Highway Business District
- Release of Security Bond for The Orchards at Quick Farm
- Minor Modification to Site Plan Approval for CSX/Transflo station on Walkup Drive
- Public Hearing for 165 Flanders Site Plan Review Application
- Vote to release erosion control bond for CarMax, 170 Turnpike Rd.
The Planning Board approved minor site plan modifications for the CSX/Transflo Station and released two security bonds. Public hearings for 165 Flanders Road and Village Commons were continued to July 18, 2023.
- Approved minor modifications to site plan for Phase II CSX/Transflo Station (5-0)
- Released remaining security guarantee balance for The Orchards at Quick Farm (5-0)
- Released $85,000 Erosion Control Bond for CarMax at 170 Turnpike Rd (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 165 Flanders Site Plan Application to July 18, 2023 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for Village Commons Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 to July 18, 2023 (5-0)
- Cancelled the July 11, 2023 meeting (5-0)
Cultural Council
The Cultural Council is meeting to coordinate logistics for the 2023 Arts in Common event. Members will discuss vendor forms, artist and food vendors, performers, and a community art project.
- Planning updates for 2023 Arts in Common
- Review of 2023 Grant Performance updates
- Discussion of a community art project
- Scheduling for Sridevi Thirumalai performance
- Recognition of student liaisons Chase Crandall and Vyshnavi Vedala
Treatment Plant Board
The Westborough Treatment Plant Board will meet to approve invoices and receive reports from the plant manager and administrator. Discussions include the Aeration System Rotor Replacement Project and the 5 Year Capital Plan.
- Invoices totaling $375,360.27, including $324,075.00 to Veolia
- Waterline invoice for $86,165.00
- National Grid invoice for $29,389.25
- Kearsarge invoice for $16,877.02
- Update on Aeration System Rotor Replacement Project
The Board approved payroll and various invoices totaling $464,046.27. Members also authorized the Chair or Treasurer to sign year-end bills. The Board received updates on the Rotor Project and the 5 Year Capital Plan.
- Approved $375,360.27 for outstanding invoices (Veolia, Kearsarge, National Grid)
- Approved $2,521.00 for Administrator payroll
- Approved $86,165.00 for Waterline invoice
- Authorized Chair or Treasurer to sign year-end bills
- Accepted minutes of the May 17, 2023 meeting
Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health
The Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health Advisory Board is meeting to discuss budget planning and various public health initiatives. The board will review updates on opioid settlement funds and community health assessments.
- Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Planning for COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing grant
- MetroWest Health Foundation Community Health Assessment deadline of June 16
- Opioid Settlement Funds general town updates
- Public Health Nursing software for tracking home wellness check referrals
- Approval of May 17, 2023 meeting minutes
The advisory group agreed to submit the draft budget for the COVID-19 Case Investigation and Contact Tracing grant as presented. The board also approved the revised meeting minutes from May 17, 2023.
- Agreed to submit draft budget for COVID-19 Case Investigation and Contact Tracing grant as is
- Approved revised meeting minutes from May 17, 2023
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and hold a discussion with UConn TAB Program leaders Aaron Hinze and Wayne Bugden.
- Approval of April 26, 2023 meeting minutes
- Presentation and discussion with UConn TAB Program leaders Aaron Hinze and Wayne Bugden
The committee received a presentation from UConn TAB Program leaders regarding the scope of a site reuse assessment. Members discussed potential reuse elements, including a multi-modal path, solar array, and a 911 Regional Dispatch Center. No formal votes were taken on the project scope.
- Passed over approval of April 26, 2023 minutes
- Approved motion to adjourn (6-0-0)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will discuss changes to the DPW Stormwater Bylaw and the care of open space at 0 Harvest Way. The body will also hold public hearings regarding septic, building, and driveway installations, as well as pavement removal and culvert work.
- Proposed changes to the DPW Stormwater Bylaw & Regulations
- New hearing for culvert installation and pipe upsizing under Bowman Lane
- New hearing for removal of 3,786 s.f. of pavement at 95 Turnpike Rd
- Continued hearing for new commercial building at 165 Flanders Rd
- New hearing for four tracks at 19 Walkup Dr.
The Commission issued an Order of Conditions for 245 Turnpike Road and a 3-year extension for 0 Harvest Way. A full Certificate of Compliance was issued for 2 Ed Waters Way, and Negative Determinations were granted for 95 Turnpike Road. The board also appointed Member Buckalew as the liaison to the Community Preservation Committee.
- Appointed Member Buckalew as Community Preservation Committee Liaison (4-0-2)
- Moved August meeting date from August 8 to August 1, 2023 (5-0-1)
- Issued Order of Conditions for 245 Turnpike Road (6-0)
- Continued NOI hearing for 165 Flanders Road (6-0)
- Issued 3-year Extension for Order of Conditions at 0 Harvest Way (6-0)
- Issued full Certificate of Compliance for 2 Ed Waters Way (6-0)
- Issued Negative Determinations #3 & #6 for 95 Turnpike Road (6-0)
Select Board
This is a procedural Select Board meeting agenda containing only the agenda item itself, with an amendment filed the day before. No substantive decisions, discussions, or public hearings are listed in the provided text.
- Agenda amendment filed June 12, 2023
The Select Board appointed an interim police chief and approved a regional 911 emergency communications district with the town of Grafton. The Board also authorized a retirement cost-of-living adjustment and delegated sign approval authority to the Town Manager.
- Appointed Deputy Chief Todd Minardi as Interim Police Chief effective July 1, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Approved establishment of a regional 911 emergency communication district with Grafton (5-0-0)
- Approved 2% cost of living adjustment for Worcester Regional Retirement System retirees (5-0-0)
- Delegated Select Board approval authority for signs under Design Review Board jurisdiction to Town Manager (5-0-0)
- Approved Tree Maintenance Craftsperson II and Sewer Maintenance Craftsperson II job descriptions (5-0-0)
- Continued Torito Mexican Restaurant liquor license hearing to June 27, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Supported proclamation of June as Pride Month (5-0-0)
- Approved multiple appointments to town boards and committees (5-0-0)
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will review and sign preliminary Real Estate and Personal Property Warrants and Commitments. The board will also discuss the Fiscal 2024 revaluation update and the retirement of Treasurer Collector Linda Smith.
- Review and signing of preliminary Real Estate Warrant and Commitment
- Review and signing of preliminary Personal Property Warrant and Commitment
- Fiscal 2024 revaluation update
- Discussion and vote on outstanding abatements in Executive Session
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The committee will review updates on the MassWorks project and MassTrails grant status for West Park Drive. Members will also discuss the rollout of road signage related to Vulnerable Road Users law and address resident requests regarding speed bumps and crosswalks.
- MassWorks project status update
- MassTrails grant status for West Park Drive
- Vulnerable Road Users law signage roll-out
- Resident request for Fisher Street speed bumps
- Resident request for a crosswalk at Ruggles & Baxter
The committee approved the minutes from the April 10, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the status of MassWorks projects on Otis Street and the potential for new town entrance signage. No new policies were adopted, and several resident requests for traffic calming were reviewed.
- Approved minutes from 4/10/2023 meeting (6-0)
- Tabled minutes from 5/15/2023 until next meeting
Veterans' Advisory Board
The board is meeting to review the elements of Memorial Day and discuss improvements. Members are also coordinating flag placement and planning a flag retirement event.
- Review of Memorial Day elements and improvements
- Flag placement and Rotary plans
- Flag retirement event planning for September 30
- Hometown Heroes update
- Quilts of Valor discussion
The board approved the minutes from the May 11, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the Memorial Day after-action review, flag placement, and planning for a flag retirement event on September 30, 2023.
- Approved May 11, 2023 minutes
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust will meet to discuss several housing projects and a first-time homebuyers program. The body will enter executive session to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of 6 Beach Street.
- Update on RFP 23-0400 for sale and redevelopment of 3 Baylor Ave
- Discussion of Rogers Rd / WHA project
- Discussion of High Street Extension project
- Discussion of First Time Homebuyers Program
- Executive session regarding 6 Beach Street
The Trust voted to work with town officials to assume several administrative and oversight responsibilities, including monitoring affordable rental developments. The board also appointed a representative to the Community Preservation Committee and approved previous meeting minutes.
- Approved appointment of Mr. Behn to the Community Preservation Committee (5-0)
- Approved proceeding with town officials to transfer roles and responsibilities to the Trust per June 6, 2023 memo (5-0)
- Approved May 19, 2023 minutes as amended (5-0)
- Approved June 2, 2023 public session minutes (5-0)
- Entered Executive Session to discuss 6 Beach Street and June 2 minutes (5-0)
Golf Club Building Use Committee
This meeting has no published agenda. The only item listed is a note that no agenda is available and that the minutes should be reviewed. No decisions or discussions are scheduled according to this document.
The Committee finalized the wording and distribution plan for a community survey regarding the golf club building. Members established a project plan to present final recommendations to the Select Board on September 26th.
- Approved May 31, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)
- Finalized survey questions and distribution plan via email and hard copies
- Set final recommendation presentation date for September 26th Select Board meeting
- Scheduled meetings for July 12th, August (TBD), and September 6th and 20th
Conservation Commission
The Commission reviewed and approved specific revisions to the Wetland Protection Bylaw. These changes include restructuring sections on purpose and jurisdiction and correcting a typo in the exemptions section. The revised bylaw will be submitted to General Code and Town Counsel.
- Approved retitling Section 1 to 'Purpose and Relation to the Wetlands Protection Act' and deleting Section 13 (6-0)
- Approved keeping subsection B under Section 2 'Jurisdiction' as written (6-0)
- Approved adding the word 'not' to subsection D in Section 4 'Exemptions' to correct a typing error (6-0)
- Approved all bylaw revisions discussed during the meeting (6-0)
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the RFP proposal, DEP grant applications, and plans for community input once RFPs are received. They will also review composting drop-off locations and web page maintenance. The meeting is largely procedural, with no final decisions listed on the agenda.
- Update on RFP proposal and plan for waste ban items
- Update on DEP grant applications
- Discuss plan for community input once RFPs received
- Update on composting drop off locations
- Update on process for keeping the web page updated
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board is meeting on June 6, 2023, to continue several public hearings and discuss downtown planning. Items include an earth moving permit at 25 Gleason St, a site plan for 190-212 Oak St, and a modification to the Village Commons special permit. The board will also discuss a letter of support for a grant and vote on extending the town planner's contract.
- Continuation of public hearing and decision for Earth Moving Permit at 25 Gleason St
- Continuation of public hearing for 190-212 Oak St site plan application
- Continuation of public hearing to modify commercial component of Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason St
- Discussion of letter of support for One Stop for Growth Grant for a Strategic Downtown Plan
- Vote to approve extension of temporary contract for Town Planner services
The Board approved a special permit for earth moving at 0 Gleason Street with specific conditions regarding hours of operation and site inspections. Public hearings for projects at 190-212 Oak St and 1 Gleason St were continued to future dates. The Board also extended the temporary contract for the Town Planner through June 30, 2023.
- Approved Earth Moving Special Permit #2022-1 for 0 Gleason Street (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 190-212 Oak St Site Plan Application to 7/18/2023 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for Village Commons at 1 Gleason St to 6/20/2023 (5-0)
- Extended Temporary Services Contract for Town Planner Jim Robbins to June 30, 2023 (5-0)
- Added Ridings II to agenda for informal discussion of project phasing (5-0)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee is meeting to review past minutes, reorder implementation priorities, and discuss the role of the Senior Center and Conservation directors in the process. The agenda also includes new or future business. This is a working session focused on planning, not final decisions.
- Review of prior meeting minutes
- Reorder implementation priorities
- Discussion with Senior Center Director and Conservation Director on their roles
- New or future business
The committee received updates on senior center needs, including a requirement to replace one town bus in the Fall Town Meeting capital planning process. The Conservation Director presented strategies for brownfield remediation, agricultural preservation, and climate action funding. No policy changes were voted on other than the approval of previous minutes.
- Approved minutes from 5/22/2023 (10-0)
Planning Board
The committee received updates on senior center needs and conservation strategies. No new policies were adopted, though the board discussed senior transportation, affordable housing, and brownfield remediation. The minutes from the May 22, 2023, meeting were approved.
- Approved minutes from 5/22/2023 (10-0)
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Trust voted to enter an executive session to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real estate at 6 Beach Street. The Chair determined that public discussion would harm the Trust's negotiating position. No further public session was held.
- Approved motion to enter Executive Session regarding 6 Beach Street (5-0)
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust is meeting remotely to enter executive session to consider the purchase, exchange, or lease of real estate at 6 Beach St., Westborough, MA. The agenda contains only this one substantive item, followed by adjournment.
- Executive session under M.G.L. c. 30A, Sec. 21(a)(6) to consider real estate at 6 Beach St., Westborough, MA
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust met remotely and voted to enter executive session to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real estate at 6 Beach Street. The Trust did not reconvene in public session following the executive session.
- Approved motion to enter Executive Session regarding 6 Beach Street (5-0)
Design Review Board
The Design Review Board will meet on May 31, 2023, to review a single application. The board is considering an application for umbrellas at Swanski’s Bakeshop located at 72 East Main St.
- DRB Application for Umbrellas at Swanski’s Bakeshop (72 East Main St)
The board approved an application for outdoor seating, umbrellas, and a portable fence at 72 East Main St. The applicant must provide fence specifications to the Building Commission before installation.
- Approved minutes from 11/8/2022 and 11/22/2022 (3-0)
- Approved seating tables, fence, and lighted umbrellas for Swanski's Bakeshop (3-0)
Golf Club Building Use Committee
This meeting of the Golf Club Building Use Committee has no published agenda. The only available information is the minutes from previous meetings, so no specific decisions or discussions are scheduled for public review.
The committee edited a compiled list of survey questions and determined delivery methods via email and physical copies. A representative from Cyprian Keyes Golf Club provided information on food and beverage operations. No decisions were made regarding committee goals.
- Approved meeting minutes from 4/24 and 5/24 (unanimous)
- Edited survey questions for submission to the Town’s Management Analyst/Communications Assistant
- Determined survey delivery via email and printed copies at the Senior Center, Library, and Pro Shop
- Tabled discussion on Committee Goals
Disability Commission
The Commission will discuss the effectiveness of the Via Rideshare service regarding handicap accessibility. Members will also discuss possibilities for acquiring more reliable services for the disabled population in town.
- Discussion of Via Rideshare service accessibility
- Information provided by James Rogers
- Discussion of more reliable local transit options
The Commission discussed potential legal actions and FOIA requests regarding non-functioning wheelchair-accessible vehicles provided by Via. Members also discussed applying for a State Mobility Assistance Program grant and promoting the Commission's presence at local events.
- Approved minutes of April 4, 2023 (6-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will conduct an interview with Jennifer Gingras for the Town Planner position. Following the interview, the board will enter into deliberations and consideration of the appointment.
- Interview of Jennifer Gingras for Town Planner position
- Deliberations and consideration of appointment
The Planning Board conducted an interview with Jennifer Gingras for the Town Planner position. Board members and town officials discussed her experience with zoning, grants, and master plans, as well as her suitability for commercial development projects. No final appointment decision was recorded in the minutes.
Library Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees will review the April minutes and financial reports. Discussion includes updates on library trust funds, the Code of Conduct, and the Collection Development Policy.
- Approval of April minutes
- Review of Treasurer's Report and trust funds
- Discussion of Code of Conduct
- Revision of Collection Development Policy
- Building repair project discussion
The Board of Trustees approved changes to the Collection Development Policy regarding material types and reconsideration requests. The board also accepted the treasurer's report and reviewed funding requests for computers and a bookmobile.
- Approved 4/26/23 meeting minutes
- Approved treasurer's report
- Approved changes to Collection Development Policy (unanimous)
Golf Club Building Use Committee
This meeting has no published agenda. The only listed item is to review the minutes from previous meetings. No decisions or discussions are specified.
- No agenda available
The committee received presentations on recreation and golf course operations. Members discussed the distribution of a community survey via Survey Monkey and planned a video walk-through of the current building.
- Scheduled next meeting for May 31st at 6:30pm
- Deferred in-depth discussion of survey questions to the next meeting
- Agreed to coordinate a video walk-through of the current building with Westborough TV
Historical Commission
The Westborough Historical Commission will hold its regular meeting to discuss and potentially approve the April meeting minutes, receive updates from the Design Review Board and Planning Board, appoint a member to the Community Preservation Committee, and discuss cemetery proposals and historical preservation efforts.
- Discussion/approval of April 19 meeting minutes
- Discussion of Design Review Board meetings
- Discussion of Planning Board meetings
- Appointment of commission member to Community Preservation Committee
- Discussion of cemetery proposals
The Commission voted to allow Chairman Hedrick to sign paperwork designating the body as the beneficiary for an Eagle Scout project to move a historical marker. Other items regarding signage and subdivision lots were discussed without formal decisions.
- Approved Chairman Hedrick to sign paperwork as project beneficiary for Connecticut Path marker excavation (unanimous)
Select Board
The Select Board will hold public hearings regarding alcohol and pool/billiard table licenses. The meeting includes a vote on American Rescue Plan Act fund redistribution for a dog park at 0 Lyman Street and several executive sessions regarding personnel negotiations and legal litigation.
- Public Hearing: Alcohol Liquor License for Cold Harbor Brewing Company at 66 Otis Street
- Vote to authorize dog park at 0 Lyman Street (Parcel ID 38-1FB-0) using ARPA funds
- Public Hearing: Pool/Billiard Table License for FORE! Golf Entertainment at 153 Turnpike Road
- Class 1 Dealers License Application for Albrecht Auto Group
- Executive Session regarding contract negotiations with Police Chief Jeff Lourie
The Select Board authorized the construction of a dog park at 0 Lyman Street and reallocated ARPA funds to support it. The Board also issued a liquor license to Cold Harbor Brewing Company, a dealer's license to Albrecht Auto Group, and a pool table license to FORE! Golf Entertainment.
- Approved updated bylaws and appointments for the Local Emergency Planning Committee (5-0-0)
- Issued Section 12 All Alcohol Restaurant License to Cold Harbor Brewing Company at 66 Otis Street (5-0-0)
- Reallocated $107,916 in ARPA funds from a splash pad to an enclosed dog park and rescinded the remaining $167,084 splash pad award (5-0-0)
- Authorized construction of a dog park at 0 Lyman Street, Parcel ID 38-1FB-0 (5-0-0)
- Issued 2023 Class 1 Dealers License to Albrecht CDJR of Westboro with specific parking and department restrictions (5-0-0)
- Issued pool table license for two tables to FORE! Golf Entertainment at 153 Turnpike Road (5-0-0)
- Amended Town Planner job description and title to Director of Planning (5-0-0)
- Approved $16,000 interdepartmental transfer from Youth & Family Services to Central Purchasing (5-0-0)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet to review prior meeting minutes, reorder implementation priorities, and discuss the Recreation Director's role in the implementation process. The meeting is open to the public and will also address any new or future business.
- Review of prior meeting minutes
- Reorder implementation priorities
- Discussion with Recreation Director on implementation role
- New or future business
The committee received an update from the Recreation Director on inclusive facilities and senior programming. Members discussed the potential for a multi-generational center and the use of developer mitigation funds for recreation projects. No new policy actions were taken other than the approval of previous minutes.
- Approved minutes from 5/8/2023 (11-0)
Planning Board
The committee received a progress update from the Recreation Director regarding inclusive facilities, senior programming, and grant-funded projects. Members discussed the potential for a multi-generational center and the use of developer mitigation funds for recreation. No new policy or project approvals were made during the session.
- Approved minutes from 5/8/2023 (11-0)
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust met remotely and approved minutes, discussed the 3 Baylor Ave project including an RFP update and asbestos survey, voted to support a bridge subsidy campaign, and reviewed next steps for the Rogers Road project. The meeting was largely procedural with project updates and votes.
- Authorized up to $1,250 for asbestos survey at 3 Baylor Ave, contingent on results by May 29, 2023
- Approved minutes from March 21 and April 13, 2023
- Voted 6-0 to support a bridge subsidy campaign
- Discussed Rogers Road project: lift device for accessibility, sprinklers, and Phase 1 engineering
- Noted upcoming transition to new WHA Director
The Trust approved funding for an asbestos survey at 3 Baylor Ave and registered support for state emergency bridge housing subsidies for seniors. The board also approved minutes from March and April 2023 meetings.
- Authorized up to $1,250 for asbestos survey at 3 Baylor Ave (5-0-1)
- Authorized support for FY24 Bridge Program Funding for senior citizens (6-0)
- Approved March 21, 2023 minutes (6-0)
- Approved April 13, 2023 minutes (6-0)
Treatment Plant Board
The Westborough Treatment Plant Board is holding its regular monthly meeting to approve invoices totaling over $522,000, including payments to Veolia, National Grid, and AECOM. The board will also receive updates on the aeration system rotor replacement project, sludge and chemical true-up, the 5-year capital plan, and other operational matters.
- Invoices totaling $376,873.78, including Veolia (May) $324,075.00 and National Grid (April) $35,279.59
- Payroll of $2,521.00 for the administrator
- Other invoices of $125,710.35, including Waterline $125,115.00
- AECOM Task Order #2 for $17,329.43
- Discussion of aeration system rotor replacement project and 5-year capital plan
The Board authorized payments for outstanding invoices, payroll, and project tasks totaling $535,464.57. Two change orders for the Rotor Project were approved, including one for a no-cost electrical duct bank installation and another for baffle replacements. The Board also discussed the 5-year capital plan and plant maintenance.
- Approved payment of outstanding invoices totaling $376,873.78
- Approved administrator payroll of $2,521.00
- Approved other invoices totaling $125,710.35
- Approved AECOM Task Order #2 payment of $17,329.43
- Approved Rotor Project Change Order #1 (no cost electrical duct bank installation)
- Approved Rotor Project Change Order #2 (seaboard baffle replacements for bridges 1 & 6)
- Accepted April 12, 2023 meeting minutes (pending one correction)
Sustainable Westborough
Sustainable Westborough will hold a hybrid meeting on May 17, 2023, at 6:30 PM in Room 327 of the Forbes Municipal Building. The agenda includes reviewing and approving minutes, updates on the Sustainable Living and Clean Electricity programs, and a reflection on the 2023 Westborough Environmental Action Fair. The committee will also discuss a submission requested by the Master Plan Implementation Committee.
- Review and approval of meeting minutes
- Sustainable Living Program reporting
- Clean Electricity Program reporting
- 2023 Westborough Environmental Action Fair review and reflection
- Submission requested by Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee approved the minutes from March and April 2023. Members discussed the Waste Management Exploratory Committee's approved recommendations for curbside pick-up and composting, and reviewed the outcomes of the 2023 Environmental Action Fair.
- Approved 3.8.23 and 4.12.23 minutes (6-0)
- Deferred review of municipal electric load headroom analysis until October
- Agreed to hold a committee meeting to discuss CAP goals before presenting to the Master Plan Implementation Committee
Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health
The Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health advisory board will discuss fiscal year 2024 budget planning and workplans. The meeting includes discussions on additional funding awarded by the DPH and local support for COVID-19 case investigation.
- Public Health Excellence Grant FY24 budget and workplan
- Local health support for COVID-19 case investigation & contact tracing grant planning
- Disease Investigation (MAVEN) Standard Operating Procedures
- Approval of March 8, 2023 meeting minutes
The board reviewed the FY2024 draft budget for the Public Health Excellence grant, which now totals $460,856.23. Members discussed potential projects including SOP development, digitizing files, and CPR/AED training. The board also approved the March 8, 2023, meeting minutes.
- Approved meeting minutes from March 8, 2023 (3-0-0)
- Added $5,000 general backup inspector line item to the budget
Planning Board
The Planning Board will review several site plan applications and public hearings. The meeting includes discussions on downtown planning and housing zoning bylaws in the Highway Business District.
- Bridle Lane ANR Plans
- Silver Hollow Estates Lot Releases
- Quick Farm Road (Section 2) Street and Easement Acceptance Plan
- 165 Flanders Site Plan Review Application
- 25 Gleason St. Earth Moving Permit
The Board approved land plans for Bridle Lane and Quick Farm Road and released five lots at Silver Hollow Estates. They also recommended that the Select Board change the Town Planner title to Director of Planning to attract more experienced candidates.
- Approved ANR for Bridle Lane (5-0)
- Approved release of lots 15, 16, 17, 18 and 20 at Silver Hollow Estates (5-0)
- Endorsed Street and Easement Acceptance Plans for Quick Farm Road (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 165 Flanders Site Plan Review to 6/20/2023 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 25 Gleason Earth Moving Permit to 6/6/2023 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 190-212 Oak St and 1 Gleason St to 6/6/2023 (5-0)
- Recommended Select Board change Town Planner title to 'Director of Planning' (5-0)
- Approved minutes from 4/25/23 and 5/2/2023 (5-0)
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The committee will receive status updates on the MassWorks project, MassTrails grant, and West Park Drive. Members will also discuss road signage roll-out related to the Vulnerable Road Users law.
- MassWorks project status update
- MassTrails grant status update
- West Park Drive public engagement and easement status
- Vulnerable Road Users law road signage roll-out
- Committee member openings and reappointment
The committee received updates on transportation projects, including the BWALT construction timeline and delays at West Park Drive. Members discussed the implementation of the Vulnerable Road Users Law and reviewed a resident's request for a crosswalk on Fisher St.
- Tabled approval of previous meeting minutes
- Denied crosswalk request at 54 Fisher St due to lack of sidewalk and blind corner
- Adjourned meeting (7-0)
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Trust will review updates on the Baylor Ave. RFP and discuss funding for architects and engineering at Rogers Rd. The meeting also includes a discussion on a new logo design and the First Time Buyer Program.
- Vote to approve $750 for asbestos survey at Baylor Ave.
- Discussion of architect/engineering funding for Rogers Rd.
- Review of High Street Extension
- First Time Buyer Program discussion
Veterans' Advisory Board
The Westborough Veterans' Advisory Board is meeting to discuss routine updates and planning for upcoming events, including Memorial Day arrangements, flag placement, and a fall flag burning event. The agenda is primarily procedural, covering committee reports and event coordination.
- Update on Rotary Service Day – May 20
- Memorial Day checklist and board assignments
- Flag placement plans with Rotary
- Discussion of fall flag burning event date
- Quilts of Valor update
The board approved the minutes from the April 17, 2023 meeting. Members provided status updates on upcoming events, including Rotary Service Day and Memorial Day logistics. A flag burning event has been postponed until the fall.
- Approved minutes of April 17, 2023
- Postponed flag burning event until Fall
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee will review minutes from the May 2 meeting and discuss a presentation given to the Select Board on May 9. Members will also receive updates regarding web page development and participation in an Environmental Fair.
- Review of May 2, 2023, meeting minutes
- Discussion of May 9, 2023, Select Board presentation
- Update on WEMC Web Page Development
- Update on Environmental Fair Participation
The committee approved the May 2 minutes and discussed the next steps for a waste management RFP. Members established a subcommittee to research composting drop-off points and reviewed a new committee webpage. The committee decided that reusable restaurant containers are outside its current scope.
- Approved May 2, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
- Formed composting drop-off subcommittee consisting of Rebecca Dolan and Nathan Askew
- Determined reusable restaurant containers are out of committee scope
- Set June 13 as a goal date for RFP progress
Design Review Board
The Design Review Board will hold a remote meeting on May 9, 2023. The agenda includes reviewing sign applications for two business locations.
- Sign Application: Wayback Burgers, 600 Union St. Suite 103
- Sign Application: Century Family Dental, 116 East Main St.
The Board approved a 2-inch aluminum externally lit sign for Wayback Burgers. A sign application for Century Family Dental was not approved, with the Chairman requesting a revised proposal regarding colors and lighting.
- Approved 2-inch aluminum externally lit sign for Wayback Burgers at 600 Union St. Suite 103 (4-0)
- Requested revised application for Century Family Dental sign at 116 East Main St. regarding colors, lettering, and lighting
Conservation Commission
The Commission issued several Negative Determinations for Town DPW work at various locations and approved a resident-led pollinator garden at Bowman Conservation Area. A request to accept care and custody of open space parcels at 0 Harvest was tabled.
- Scheduled Bylaw review hearing for June 6 at 7:00pm
- Issued Certificate of Compliance for 238 Turnpike Rd (7-0)
- Continued NOI hearings for 245 Turnpike Road and 165 Flanders Rd to June 13 (7-0)
- Issued Negative Determinations for DPW work under RDA Files 208, 209, and 210 (7-0)
- Issued Amended Order of Conditions for 200, 2100, 2200, and 2300 West Park Drive and 118 & 134 Flanders Road (7-0)
- Approved De Minimis change request for 54 Otis Street (7-0)
- Approved pollinator garden installation at Bowman Conservation Area (7-0)
- Tabled acceptance of open space parcels at 0 Harvest to June 13
Select Board
The Select Board will review several items including a liquor license hearing for Torito Mexican Restaurant and proposed collective bargaining agreements for police and clerical unions. The board will also discuss various legal matters in executive session.
- Liquor License Hearing for Torito Westborough LLC, dba, Torito Mexican Restaurant, 291 Turnpike Road
- Collective Bargaining Agreements (FY23-FY25) for New England Police Benevolent Association and SEIU Local 888
- Amendment of Traffic Rules to establish a municipal school zone on Eli Whitney Street
- Reappointment of Judith Meltzer as Registrar of Voters
- Litigation strategy discussions regarding Ferris Development Group, LLC; Westborough SPE, LLC; and Westborough Retirement Residence, LLC
The Select Board accepted a new waste management plan and established a municipal school zone on Eli Whitney Street. The Board also approved three-year collective bargaining agreements for police and clerical unions and authorized a $46,000 fund transfer for salt and truck maintenance.
- Accepted Waste Management Exploratory Committee plan (5-0-0)
- Approved municipal school zone for Fales Elementary School at 50 Eli Whitney Street (5-0-0)
- Approved 3-year agreement with New England Police Benevolent Association (4-0-0)
- Approved 3-year agreement with SEIU Local 888 Clerical Union (4-0-0)
- Approved $46,000 transfer from snow/ice wages to snow removal expenses (5-0-0)
- Allowed Torito Mexican Restaurant to retain liquor license; hearing continued to June 13, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Reappointed Judith Meltzer as Registrar of Voters (5-0-0)
- Deferred vote on Worcester Regional Retirement System COLA increase
Planning Board
The committee will review minutes from a previous meeting and reorder implementation priorities. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the Active Transportation & Safety Committee's role in the process.
- Review of prior meeting minutes
- Reordering of implementation priorities
- Discussion with Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee received a presentation from the Active Transportation & Safety Committee (ATSC) on trail projects, safety improvements, and transportation planning. No formal decisions or votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting was adjourned by a 7-0 vote after losing quorum.
- Adjourned meeting at 8:00 PM (7-0)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will review previous meeting minutes and reorder its implementation priorities. The committee also plans to discuss the role of the Active Transportation & Safety Committee in the implementation process.
- Review of prior meeting minutes
- Reordering of implementation priorities
- Discussion regarding the Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee received a presentation from the Active Transportation & Safety Committee on ongoing and planned projects including the BWALT trail, Safe Routes to School grant, Otis Street Corridor, and improvements for walkability and bikeability. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting adjourned early due to loss of quorum.
- Heard update on BWALT trail sections 1-4 and related easements
- Noted $1.9M Safe Routes to School grant awarded to DPW
- Discussed Otis Street Corridor project at 25% design
- Noted Fisher Street rebuild including pedestrian/cyclist path
- Discussed Hocomonco Pond Reuse committee trail easements
- Heard about MassTrails grant application for BWALT Section 2
- Discussed corridor plans for Routes 135 and 30
- Adjourned at 8:00 PM (7-0 vote)
Council on Aging Board
The Board approved the Secretary's minutes from April 10, 2023. Members discussed a 91-page senior survey report regarding cost of living, transportation, and facility needs. No other formal votes were recorded.
- Approved Secretary's Minutes from April 10, 2023 (unanimous)
Planning Board
This Planning Board meeting has no published agenda. The only material is the approved minutes from the same date, so there are no specific items to report.
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to discuss COVID-19 and opioid-related issues. The board will also review Warrant Article 37 for the Annual Town Meeting and a contract for E.L. Harvey for 2022-2023.
- Annual Town Meeting Warrant Article 37
- E.L. Harvey’s Contract 2022-2023
- COVID-19 update and discussion
- Opioid discussion
The Board of Health discussed rising COVID-19 cases, opioid use in town, and ongoing issues with E.L. Harvey's contract and restaurant compliance. No formal votes were taken on these topics; the meeting was largely informational and procedural.
- Accepted Director's report (3-0)
- Accepted Sanitarian's report (3-0)
- Accepted Health Inspector's report (3-0)
- Approved minutes from February 15, March 15, and April 25, 2022 (2-0-1 abstention)
- Tabled June meeting date pending schedule confirmation
Cultural Council
The Cultural Council is meeting to discuss logistics, vendors, and performers for the 2023 Arts in Common event. The board will also review a finance report and the installation of the Lynn Watts Memorial Bench.
- 2023 Arts in Common planning for online vendors, artist vendors, food vendors, and performers
- Installation of the Lynn Watts Memorial Bench
- Review of 2023 Grant Performances including events at Gibbons Middle School and DoubleTree by Hilton
- Update on student liaisons following the 'Amplifying Youth Voices on Local Cultural Councils' forum
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission will appoint a Chair and Vice-Chair. The body will also receive updates from the Recreation Department regarding the golf course, general recreation, and facilities.
- Appointment of Chair and Vice-Chair
- Golf Course updates
- Recreation Department updates
- Facilities updates
The commission approved the minutes from April 4, 2023. Members discussed staffing shortages for lifeguarding and softball programs, golf course operations, and the need for a centrally located recreation center.
- Approved April 4, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee will review previous minutes and prepare for a meeting with the Select Board. The agenda also includes updates on the committee's webpage development and participation in an environmental fair.
- Finalize minutes from April 12, 2023 meeting
- Prepare for Select Board Meeting
- Update on WEMC Web Page Development
- Update on Environmental Fair Participation
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee approved presentation slides for the Select Board that recommend investigating a town-wide curbside solid waste and recycling program. The committee also planned a community education table for the May 13th Environmental Fair.
- Approved April 12, 2023 meeting minutes (roll call vote)
- Approved presentation slides for Select Board with updates to slides 7-8 (roll call vote)
- Selected K. Curtin-Mestre to present slides at May 9th Select Board meeting
- Agreed to host a community table at the May 13th Environmental Fair to educate residents on waste and recycling
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will discuss the Downtown Plan and housing zoning bylaws in the Highway Business District. The board will also hold public hearings for several site plan and permit applications.
- Housing Zoning Bylaws in the Highway Business District
- Site Plan Review Application at 6 Bellows Rd (Boroughs Islamic Society)
- Earth Moving Permit at 25 Gleason St
- Site Plan Application at 190-212 Oak St
- Special Permit modification for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
The Planning Board approved a modification of the subdivision covenant for Silver Hollow Estates, LLC, extending it to February 17, 2026, with a 3-0 vote. The board also closed the public hearing and approved a site plan review for 6 Bellows Road, subject to engineering department approval, and continued several other hearings to May 16, 2023.
- Approved modification of subdivision covenant for Silver Hollow Estates, LLC (3-0)
- Closed public hearing for site plan review at 6 Bellows Road (4-0)
- Approved site plan review for 6 Bellows Road with revisions and subject to engineering approval (4-0)
- Continued public hearing for earth moving permit at 25 Gleason Street to May 16, 2023 (3-0)
- Continued public hearing for site plan review at 190-212 Oak Street and special permit modification for Village Commons to May 16, 2023 (3-0)
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to sign warrants and execute a lien release. The board will also hold an executive session to review and vote on real estate abatements, including one for Amazon.
- Lien release for 22 Lackey St.
- Vote on Amazon abatement
- Vote on real estate abatements
- Signing of Excise 2023/2 Warrant and Commitment
- Review of statutory exemptions
Library Board of Trustees
The Westborough Public Library Board of Trustees will review the LPAA Work Plan and timeline for the building repair project. The meeting includes updates from the Friends and Foundation, approval of March minutes and financials, and continued discussion of library policies regarding the Code of Conduct and displays.
- Review of LPAA Work Plan and timeline for the building repair project
- Approval of March minutes
- Approval of March financial report
- Discussion of Code of Conduct policy
- Discussion of policy on displays, programs, and services
The Board of Trustees approved the March meeting minutes and accepted the treasurer's report, which noted a potential budget shortfall due to the FY2023 contract. The board also agreed to move future meeting start times to 7:15 PM. No final decisions were made on the Code of Conduct or Collection Development policies.
- Approved March meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Accepted treasurer's report noting potential FY2023 budget shortfall (Unanimous)
- Agreed to move meeting start time to 7:15 PM
- Approved building repair project option 2 to seek Town Meeting funding in March 2024
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The committee will meet to review and discuss a presentation intended for the Finance Committee, Town Meeting, and other committees. The session will also include project updates and the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Approval of March 8, 2023 meeting minutes
- Review of presentation for Finance Committee and Town Meeting
- Project updates
The committee heard a presentation from the UConn TAB Program regarding free environmental engineering services and grant-funded studies for brownfields sites. No substantive decisions were made regarding the program's adoption.
- Approved March 22, 2023 minutes (6-0-0)
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee will hold a fully remote meeting via Zoom on April 26, 2023. The agenda includes the approval of March 22, 2023 minutes, a presentation on the UConn TAB Program, and a discussion of next steps following the Annual Town Meeting. No specific decisions, contracts, or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.
- Approval of Meeting Minutes from March 22, 2023
- Presentation of UConn TAB Program
- Discussion of next steps following Annual Town Meeting
The committee heard a presentation from the UConn TAB Program regarding free environmental engineering services for brownfields sites. Members discussed how the program could assist with land use restrictions, zoning, and community visioning. No substantive policy decisions were made.
- Approved March 22, 2023 minutes (6-0-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold public hearings for several site plan reviews and earth moving permits. The board will also discuss the Downtown Plan and housing zoning bylaws in the Highway Business District.
- Vote to support Aquifer Recharge Project for MVP Grant Funding
- Public hearing for Site Plan Review at 6 Bellows Rd (Boroughs Islamic Society)
- Public hearing for 165 Flanders Site Plan Review
- Public hearing for Earth Moving Permit at 25 Gleason St
- Public hearing to modify Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
The Planning Board voted to support the Aquifer Recharge Project MVP Grant Funding proposal. Several public hearings for site plan and earth moving permits were continued to May 2, 2023.
- Approved support and a Letter of Support for the Aquifer Recharge Project MVP Grant Funding proposal (5-0)
- Approved minutes from 2/28/23, 3/15/23, 3/21/23, and 4/4/23 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for Site Plan Review Application at 6 Bellows Rd to 5/2/23 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for Site Plan Review Application at 165 Flanders Road to 5/2/23 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for Earth Moving Special Permit Application at 25 Gleason Street to 5/2/23 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for Site Plan Review Application at 190-212 Oak Street to 5/2/23 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing to modify commercial component of Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason St to 5/2/23 (5-0)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to discuss proposed regulations for halal food and a swimming pool variance for Hundred's. The board will also review a contract with E.L. Harvey's / Waste Connections and discuss illegal dumping.
- Halal Food Proposed Regulation Discussion
- Hundred's Swimming Pool Variance Discussion
- Illegal Dumping Discussion
- E.L. Harvey's / Waste Connections Contract
The Board of Health approved a variance for non-guarded adult swimming at Hundreds Swimming Pool subject to specific safety guidelines. The Board also voted to contact the state regarding illegal dumping and agreed to research Halal food certification regulations.
- Approved one-season variance for Hundreds Swimming Pool non-guarded adult swimming (3-0)
- Approved motion to write letter to state regarding illegal dumping (3-0)
- Accepted Director's Report (3-0)
- Accepted Sanitarian's Report (3-0)
- Accepted Health Inspector's Report (3-0)
- Approved March 21, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
Conservation Commission
The Commission held a work session to review red-line and clean edit versions of Bylaw revisions. No final decisions were made; members flagged specific edits for further discussion by the full Commission at a future public hearing.
- Reviewed red-line and clean edit versions of Bylaw revisions
- Flagged specific edits for further Commission discussion
- Proposed scheduling a public hearing for the full Commission to confirm Bylaw revisions
Select Board
The Select Board will consider amendments to the classification plan for several town positions, including the Economic Development Coordinator and Council on Aging staff. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss collective bargaining and multiple litigation matters. The board will also review a fireworks contract.
- Amendments to Classification Plan for Council on Aging positions
- Amendment to Economic Development Coordinator Job Description
- Fireworks Contract/Spirit Committee
- Executive session regarding collective bargaining with Firefighter and Police Supervisor Unions
- Executive session to consider real property at 1500 Union Street
The Select Board approved several personnel changes, including the creation of a Network Administrator role and the promotion of the Economic Development Coordinator to Director. The Board also authorized the Town Manager to handle annual flag display requests and updated the Economic Development Committee's term lengths.
- Approved Network Administrator job description and addition to Classification Plan (5-0-0)
- Approved increased hours for five Council on Aging positions effective May 15, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Approved promotion of Economic Development Coordinator to Director effective July 1, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Set Economic Development Committee at-large seat terms to three years with staggered starts (5-0-0)
- Delegated authority for July 4th and Veterans Day rotary flag installations to Town Manager (5-0-0)
- Approved flag installation on rotary for June 24–July 8 and Nov 4–Nov 18, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Approved Memorial Day Poppy Display from May 23 to May 30, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Approved proclamation for Children’s Mental Health Week (5-0-0)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee received updates from Community Development and Economic Development regarding downtown vibrancy, adaptive reuse, and climate mitigation. No new policies were adopted, though the committee discussed the potential for a vacant property inventory and a downtown Master Plan.
- Approved minutes from 4/10/2023 (11-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 8:40 PM (12-0)
Golf Club Building Use Committee
This meeting has no published agenda. The only listed item is a note directing readers to review the minutes, so no decisions or discussions are specified.
- No agenda items listed
The committee elected its Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. Members toured the vacant golf building and agreed to develop a public survey for a target publication date of June 1st to determine the best use for the space.
- Elected Ian Johnson as Chair (6-0-0)
- Elected Maura Shunney as Vice Chair (6-0-0)
- Elected Jenn Kirkland as Secretary (6-0-0)
- Scheduled May meetings for May 10th and May 24th at 6:30pm
Planning Board
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet to discuss the implementation process. The body will review previous meeting minutes and reorder implementation priorities.
- Reordering of implementation priorities
- Discussion regarding the roles of the Community Development Director and Economic Development Coordinator
The committee received updates from the Community Development and Economic Development departments regarding adaptive reuse, downtown walkability, and climate mitigation. No new policies were adopted, though the committee discussed the need for a vacant property inventory and noted a sewer moratorium restricting mixed-use development.
- Approved minutes from 4/10/2023 (11-0)
Veterans' Advisory Board
The board reviewed the status of several veterans' initiatives and upcoming ceremonies. Members discussed logistics for Memorial Day and scheduled flag placements. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.
- Scheduled flag placement for 4/29 and 6/24
- Postponed flag burning event
- Scheduled spring newsletter for June
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust will discuss the status and timetable of a Request for Proposals for Baylor Ave. and provide an update on a court case regarding The Residences at Westborough Station.
- RFP for Baylor Ave. status and timetable
- Court case update for The Residences at Westborough Station
- Rogers Rd update and discussion
- First Time Buyer Program update
The Trust released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 3 Baylor Ave project and established a schedule for site visits and responses. Trustees discussed potential task force steps for the Rogers Road property and reviewed guidance from the Mass Housing Partnership for a First Time Buyer Program.
- Released RFP for 3 Baylor Ave project on April 10, 2023
- Scheduled 3 Baylor Ave pre-submittal meeting and site walk-through for May 3, 2023
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Capital Expenditure Planning Committee
The Capital Expenditures Planning Committee is meeting to review updates regarding vehicle purchases for the Police Department and the Department of Public Works. The committee will also vote on the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Discussion of DPW and Police Department vehicle purchase updates
- Approval of 12/6/2022 meeting minutes
- Approval of 2/9/2023 meeting minutes
The Committee approved requests from the Police Department and Department of Public Works to purchase gasoline-powered vehicles. Both departments cited supply chain issues and long lead times as reasons for not purchasing hybrid vehicles.
- Approved Police Department and DPW request to purchase gasoline powered vehicles (6-0-0)
- Approved February 9, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-1)
Cultural Council
The Westborough Cultural Council is holding a remote board meeting to approve minutes, review finances, and plan the 2023 Arts in Common event, including logistics, vendors, and performers. They will also discuss grant-related updates and follow-ups from previous meetings.
- Approve February meeting minutes
- Finance report by Treasurer Maureen Johnson
- 2023 Arts in Common planning updates (logistics, artist/food vendors, performers, community art project)
- Discussion of upcoming grant performances and events
- Old Vienna Koffeehaus follow-up discussion
The Council confirmed September 30, 2023, as the date for the Arts In Common festival at Baystate Common. The body also reported a total account balance of $58,804.10 and the receipt of a $2,500 Mass Cultural Council festival grant.
- Secured Baystate Common for Arts In Common on Sept. 30, 2023
- Approved adjournment of meeting (unanimous)
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee is meeting to finalize its recommended go-forward options for waste collection, including a curbside pay-as-you-throw (PAYT) recommendation, and to prepare for an upcoming Select Board meeting. The committee will also approve minutes from prior meetings and discuss updates to its web page. This is a working session to conclude its recommendations, not a final decision by the town.
- Finalize recommended go-forward options, including curbside with PAYT recommendation
- Prepare for Select Board meeting
- Approve minutes from 15 Mar 2023 and 04 Apr 2023 meetings
- Update on WEMC web page development
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee recommended that the town pursue a townwide curbside solid waste and recycling program and seek hauler proposals. The committee also endorsed a Pay As You Throw (PAYT) system and the inclusion of composting in the curbside program.
- Approved recommendation to pursue townwide curbside solid waste and recycling program (7-0)
- Approved recommendation to pursue Pay As You Throw (PAYT) program (5-2)
- Approved recommendation to include composting in the curbside program, without precluding local drop-off points (7-0)
- Approved that the Wheelabrator contract be available only for the municipally sponsored program (7-0)
- Approved minutes from 15 Mar. 2023 (5-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved minutes from 04 Apr. 2023 (6-0)
Treatment Plant Board
The Westborough Treatment Plant Board is holding its regular monthly meeting to review and approve invoices, including a $377,778.03 outstanding balance and payments to Veolia, Kearsarge, and National Grid. The board will also discuss the FY24 wastewater treatment plant budget, aeration system rotor replacement project update, and other operational reports.
- Outstanding invoices totaling $377,778.03, including Veolia April invoice of $324,075.00
- Veolia Septage (March) invoice of $2,945.00
- Kearsarge invoice of $11,643.44
- National Grid (March) invoice of $39,114.59
- Discussion of FY24 WWTP budget and Aeration System Rotor Replacement Project
The Board approved payments for outstanding invoices, administrator payroll, and FY22 encumbrances. Members received updates on the FY25 budget, the Aeration rotor replacement project, and the NPDES permit. The Board will further discuss the 5 Year Capital Plan at the May meeting.
- Accepted minutes of the March 8, 2023 meeting
- Authorized $377,778.03 for outstanding invoices (Veolia, Kearsarge, National Grid)
- Authorized $2,521.00 for Administrator payroll
- Authorized $3,967.00 for FY 22 Septage True Up encumbrances
Sustainable Westborough
Sustainable Westborough will meet to review reports on energy and outreach programs. The body will discuss spending policies and vote to approve expense requests for Sustainable Westborough funds.
- Vote to approve expense requests for SW funds
- Municipal Building Energy project reporting
- Drive Green Program reporting
- 2023 Westborough Environmental Action Fair update
- Master Plan Implementation Committee update
The committee established a new approval process for gift account expenditures and approved funding for the 2023 Environmental Action Fair and a decarbonization conference. Members also discussed the upcoming hiring of a Sustainability Coordinator and the implementation of the Community Action Plan (CAP).
- Approved spending policy: expenditures under $100 require Chair, Vice-chair, and Finance Director approval; over $100 require committee vote (8-0)
- Approved $200 for up to 4 members to attend Decarbonizing Campuses and Communities conference (8-0)
- Approved $1,250 marketing budget for Environmental Action Fair, subject to raffle legality (8-0)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will discuss bylaw codification and conservation area projects. The body will hold public hearings regarding septic and building installations and DPW dam repairs.
- New Hearing: 2000-gal grease trap at 3 Colonial Dr
- New Hearing: Lower Sandra Pond dam repairs at 71 Upton Rd
- New Hearing: Upper Westborough Reservoir dam repairs at 71 Upton Rd
- Continued Hearing: New septic system at 245 Turnpike Rd
- Continued Hearing: New commercial building at 165 Flanders Rd
The Commission approved a student project to install educational signs at the Headwaters Conservation Area. Several Requests for Determination of Applicability (RDA) for town and private projects were closed with determinations. A Notice of Violation for unauthorized tree removal at 8 Mayberry Drive was ratified.
- Approved Mill Pond School project to install 6-8 signs at Headwaters Conservation Area (6-1)
- Issued Positive #2b & #5 and Negative #3 Determinations for 3 Colonial Drive (7-0)
- Issued Positive #5 and Negative #3 Determinations for 71 Upton Road (RDA File 206) (7-0)
- Issued Positive #5 and Negative #3 Determinations for 71 Upton Road (RDA File 207) (7-0)
- Ratified Notice of Violation for tree and vegetation removal at 8 Mayberry Drive (7-0)
- Approved naming 0 Ruggles property as Despres Family Conservation Area and approved connecting trail plan (7-0)
- Continued NOI hearing for 245 Turnpike Road to May 9, 2023 (7-0)
- Continued NOI hearing for 165 Flanders Road to May 9, 2023 (7-0)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet on April 11, 2023, to discuss a contract involving E.L. Harvey and Waste Connections. The meeting also includes time for Director's issues.
- Discussion of E.L. Harvey / Waste Connections contract
The Board of Health decided to continue Sapporo's sushi variance but warned the establishment that drastic improvements must be visible by the next meeting. The Board also discussed a new one-year contract with E.L. Harvey & Son’s and the requirement for a BOH permit.
- Maintained Sapporo sushi variance pending progress by end of month
- Deemed Sapporo pest control issue resolved
- Tabled E.L. Harvey & Son’s contract and permit decision until Member Mahr is present
- Requested Hunan Kitchen be added to next month's agenda following a Cease and Desist violation
- Adjourned meeting (2-0)
Select Board
The Select Board issued a Class 1 Dealer License to Herb Chambers-Lincoln and granted six-month plastic reduction bylaw extensions to 11 local businesses. The Board also approved a new Sustainability Coordinator job description and a National Grid easement at 123 Fisher Street.
- Approved temporary road closure of Jasper Street on May 6, 2023 (5-0)
- Authorized letter of support for House Bill 74/Senate Bill 34 regarding community media funding (5-0)
- Issued 2023 Class 1 Dealer License to Herb Chambers-Lincoln at 75 Otis Street (5-0)
- Approved Sustainability Coordinator/Community Development Assistant job description (5-0)
- Granted plastic reduction bylaw extensions to 11 businesses until October 17, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved signing a letter to Governor Healy regarding homeless family sheltering (5-0)
- Approved National Grid easement at 123 Fisher Street (5-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from March 28, 2023 (5-0)
Planning Board
The Master Plan Implementation Committee is meeting to review prior minutes, reorder implementation priorities, and discuss the DPW's role in the process. This is a working session focused on planning and coordination, not a final decision-making meeting.
- Review minutes of prior meeting
- Reorder implementation priorities
- Discussion with DPW Director on DPW's role in implementation
The committee received a presentation from DPW Director Chris Payant regarding current and conceptual transportation projects. Members discussed traffic mitigation, pedestrian connectivity, and the impact of truck traffic on the town rotary. No new projects were voted into implementation.
- Approved minutes from 3/27/2023 meeting (11-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 9:16 PM (11-0)
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The committee will discuss potential recommendations for cycling and pedestrian improvements. The agenda also includes updates from various town departments and information regarding a community bike ride.
- Discussion on cycling/pedestrian improvement recommendations
- "Westborough Unplugs" community bike ride scheduled for May 1 at 4 p.m.
- Approval of February 13 and March 13, 2023 meeting minutes
- Two openings for committee members
The committee approved meeting minutes from February and March 2023. Members discussed the status of MassDOT grants for school zone signage and the 'Safe Routes to School' program. No new ordinances or contracts were voted on.
- Approved 2/13/2023 minutes (8-0)
- Approved 3/13/2023 minutes (6-0-2)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Westborough Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet on April 10, 2023, to review prior minutes and reorder implementation priorities. The body will also hold a discussion with the Director of Public Works regarding the department's role in the implementation process. No specific projects, contracts, or ordinances are listed for decision.
- Reorder Implementation Priorities
- Discussion with DPW Director on implementation role
The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes and received a presentation from the DPW Director on current and conceptual transportation projects. Members discussed traffic mitigation, pedestrian connectivity, and the need for a town planner. No new policy or funding actions were decided.
- Approved minutes from 3/27/2023 meeting (11-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 9:16 PM (11-0)
Council on Aging Board
The Board approved the amended minutes from the March 13, 2023 meeting. Members received updates on a senior survey conducted by UMass Boston and a presentation on the Westborough Affordable Housing Trust.
- Approved Secretary's minutes from March 13, 2023 as amended
Select Board
The Select Board convened for a remote meeting to enter into executive session. The board voted to review executive session minutes from November 2018. No other substantive actions were taken in open session.
- Approved motion to enter executive session to review minutes from Nov 6, Nov 13, and Nov 20, 2018 (3-0-0)
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission will review updates regarding the golf course and general recreation. The body will also discuss a Girl Scout Troop project for the beach library.
- Golf Course updates
- Recreation updates
- Girl Scout Troop Project: Beach Library
The Commission approved the minutes from the March 14, 2023 meeting. Members discussed golf course memberships, summer clinic registrations, and a proposal for a beach toy library at Lake Chauncy.
- Approved March 14, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
- Deferred decision on placement and base of Girl Scout beach toy library to Earl Storey and Fred Lonardo
Disability Commission
The Commission reviewed transportation challenges related to Via and the WRTA contract, including a FOIA request for ridership and revenue data. Members discussed potential partnerships with Economic Development and the Council on Aging. Future work items identified include a handicap parking map and library renovation accessibility.
- Approved minutes of February 28, 2023 (5-0)
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee reviewed current waste and recycling data and curbside program options presented by the MA DEP. Members discussed the expiration of the Wheelabrator contract in 2027 and the need to research recycling options beyond leaf and brush. No final recommendations for curbside programs were decided.
- Approved February 7, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will conduct several public hearings regarding site plan reviews and earth moving permits. The meeting also includes discussions on downtown planning, housing zoning bylaws, and a vote on a temporary contract for Town Planner services.
- Public Hearing: Site Plan Review at 6 Bellows Rd (Boroughs Islamic Society)
- Public Hearing: Site Plan Review at 165 Flanders
- Public Hearing: Earth Moving Permit at 25 Gleason St
- Public Hearing: Site Plan Application at 190-212 Oak St
- Public Hearing: Modify Commercial Component of Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
The Planning Board appointed Jim Robbins as Temporary Town Planner for up to two months and confirmed its Chairman and Vice Chairperson. Several site plan reviews and permit applications were continued to the next meeting. The board also discussed the potential for a Downtown Master Plan and zoning in the Highway Business District.
- Appointed Jim Robbins as Temporary Town Planner for up to 2 months (5-0)
- Appointed Mark Silverberg as Chairman of the Planning Board (5-0)
- Nominated Hazel Nourse as Vice Chairperson of the Planning Board (5-0)
- Nominated Hazel Nourse to the Community Preservation Committee (5-0)
- Nominated Jon Pezzoni as CMRPC alternate (5-0)
- Continued Site Plan Review for 6 Bellows to 4/25/23 (5-0)
- Continued Site Plan Review for 165 Flanders Rd to 4/25/23 (5-0)
- Continued Earth Moving Permit for 25 Gleason to 4/25/23 (5-0)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will meet to conduct a work session focused on reviewing and revising bylaws and regulations. This session involves General Code.
- Bylaw + Regulation Review & Revision Work Session
The Commission discussed edits to the Wetlands Protection Bylaw and Regulations to improve organization and grammar. Members agreed to condense the Bylaw by moving elaborative text into the Regulations. The group also discussed amending waiver language to give the Commission more authority regarding hardships and No-Disturbance Zones.
- Agreed to condense the Bylaw by moving elaborative text to the Regulations
- Scheduled a follow-up working group meeting for April 25, 2023
Select Board
The Westborough Select Board is holding a retreat to discuss public engagement, review FY2023 goals, and set goals for FY2024. The meeting also includes time for board and town manager communication and a review of liaison roles.
- Public engagement discussion
- Review of FY2023 goals
- FY2024 Select Board and Town Manager goals
- Select Board liaisons and membership roles
The Select Board approved the FY2024 goals for both the Board and the Town Manager. The Board also agreed to a new meeting schedule with the Town Manager to ensure equal information sharing.
- Approved Select Board FY2024 goals (5-0-0)
- Approved Town Manager FY2024 goals (5-0-0)
- Agreed to a new meeting schedule between the Board and Town Manager
- Assigned Chair Keogh to the Trustees of Soldiers Memorials and Finance Team
Library Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees reviewed a request for book reconsideration and approved a recommendation to keep the book in the Children's Room on an upper shelf. The board also approved an amended Teen Room policy and discussed updates regarding library building design and parking agreements.
- Approved recommendation to retain a challenged book in the Children's Room on an upper shelf
- Approved amended Teen Room policy including age guidelines
- Reported that contracting for the schematic design phase of the library building is underway with architect LPA
- Noted that the parking agreement with the church ends on April 1st
- Election of new board officers including Mary Johnston as Chairperson and Karen Fay as Vice Chairperson
The Board of Trustees approved a recommendation to keep a contested book in the Children's Room on an upper shelf. The board also updated the Teen Room Policy and elected its officers for the year.
- Approved recommendation to keep contested book in Children's Room on an upper shelf (Unanimous)
- Approved amended Teen Room Policy with added age guideline (Unanimous)
- Approved 2023-24 meeting dates as amended (Unanimous)
- Elected Mary Johnston as Chairperson, Karen Fay as Vice Chairperson, Ed Baldwin as Treasurer, Debra Cushman as Recording Secretary, and Dot Mello as Corresponding Secretary (Unanimous)
- Approved 2/22/23 meeting minutes with date correction (Majority; 3 abstentions)
- Accepted Treasurer's report (Unanimous)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission is meeting to conduct a work session regarding the review of bylaw regulations. This session focuses on General Code.
- Bylaw Regulation Review Work Session – General Code
The Commission held a work session to review grammatical and consistency recommendations from General Code regarding the Wetlands Protection Bylaw and Regulations. Members agreed to pursue further amendments and a reorganization of the Regulations. A follow-up work session was scheduled for April 3, 2023.
- Agreed to amend the Wetlands Protection Bylaw and Regulations
- Scheduled next work session for April 3, 2023
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss the upcoming meeting calendar. The board will also hold an executive session to review and vote on current statutory exemptions and abatements.
- Vote on current statutory exemptions
- Vote on current abatements
- Discussion of meeting calendar
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet to discuss the roles of the Town Planner and Planning Board in the implementation process. The committee also intends to reorder implementation priorities.
- Reordering of implementation priorities
- Discussion on the role of the Town Planner and Planning Board
The committee received a presentation from Town Planner Jim Robbins regarding the Planning Board's role in the Master Plan. Members discussed prioritizing 16 high-priority goals, including downtown revitalization and affordable housing. The committee scheduled upcoming meetings with the DPW and sustainability representatives.
- Approved minutes from 3/13/2023 meeting (11-0)
- Scheduled DPW meeting for 4/10
- Scheduled sustainability meeting for 4/24
Planning Board
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet to discuss the roles of the Town Planner and Planning Board in the implementation process. The committee will also reorder implementation priorities.
- Reordering of implementation priorities
- Discussion on the roles of the Town Planner and Planning Board
The committee discussed the Planning Board's role in implementing the Master Plan and identified 16 high-priority goals. Members reviewed the impact of zoning on affordable housing and downtown revitalization. The committee scheduled upcoming meetings with the DPW and sustainability representatives.
- Approved minutes from 3/13/2023 meeting (11-0)
- Scheduled DPW meeting for 4/10
- Scheduled sustainability meeting for 4/24
- Adjourned meeting at 8:36 PM (11-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board is meeting during the Annual Town Meeting to discuss and act on items listed on the Town Meeting Warrant. Board members will provide comments to voters regarding these items.
- Review and action on Annual Town Meeting Warrant items
The Planning Board met to discuss a resident voter's request to modify zoning bylaw language. The board decided to change all references from 'chairperson' to 'chair' within Article 33.
- Voted 5-0 to change 'chairperson' to 'chair' in Article 33 zoning bylaws
Select Board
The Select Board is meeting to discuss any outstanding items related to the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. No other specific business items are listed on the agenda.
- Annual Town Meeting Warrant outstanding items
The Select Board voted to support passing over two articles and supporting one article related to the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. The board acted on items concerning ADA accessibility, security cameras, and Hocomonco Pond.
- Supported passing over Article 10 P – Hastings ADA (4-0-0)
- Supported passing over Article 13 – Security Cameras (4-0-0)
- Supported Article 16 – Hocomonco Pond (4-0-0)
Historical Commission
The Westborough Historical Commission will meet to discuss a sign application and review updates from the Design Review and Planning Boards. The commission will also discuss gravestone repair and a potential change to their monthly meeting schedule.
- Review of Lions Gate strip sign by Dave Spatara, Signarama
- Discussion of gravestone repair
- Proposal to change meeting night to the 4th Wednesday of the month
- Updates on Design Review Board meetings
- Updates on Planning Board meetings
The Commission unanimously approved a strip sign for Lions Gate at 57 East Main St. and approved the amended minutes from the January 18, 2023 meeting. A decision regarding changing the meeting night to Wednesdays was tabled.
- Approved strip sign for Lions Gate at 57 East Main St. (unanimous)
- Approved amended January 18, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Tabled decision to change meeting night to fourth Wednesday of the month
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee is meeting to approve minutes from prior sessions, receive an update from engineering firm VHB, and discuss/vote on a Town Meeting article. The agenda is substantive, with a potential vote on a specific article.
- Approval of meeting minutes from March 8 and March 16, 2023
- Update from VHB (Mark Silverberg, Jennifer Miller, Shelby Marshall)
- Discussion and possible vote on Town Meeting article
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust will meet to review a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Baylor Ave. The body will also discuss a Town Meeting Warrant Article and a meeting with Acton.
- Review of RFP for Baylor Ave
- Discussion of Town Meeting Warrant Article
- Update on meeting with Acton
- Website upgrade
The Trust voted to release a Request for Proposals (RFP) on April 3, 2023, for the development of a single-family affordable home at 3 Baylor Ave. The board also approved funds for a website upgrade and discussed a warrant article to transfer Pulte mitigation funds.
- Approved release of 3 Baylor Ave RFP on April 3, 2023 (5-0)
- Authorized Chair and Secretary to make administrative edits to RFP, P&S, and LDA (5-0)
- Authorized addition of workmanship warranty to the LDA (5-0)
- Approved allocation of funds for website upgrade pending Town Meeting approval (5-0)
- Approved February 9, 2023 meeting minutes as amended (5-0)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will conduct public hearings regarding tobacco sales noncompliance for Kings Smoke Shop and OM Shell. The board will also discuss waste management contracts and transfer station sticker reductions.
- Public hearing for Kings Smoke Shop noncompliance of tobacco sales
- Public hearing for OM Shell noncompliance of tobacco sales
- Discussion of E.L. Harvey & Son’s / Waste Connections contract
- Discussion regarding transfer station sticker reduction
- Update from Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The Board of Health voted to cut the cost of transfer station stickers by half starting July 1, 2023. The board also waived a suspension for OM Shell and appointed Member Walsh to help negotiate a new waste removal contract.
- Reduced transfer station sticker price by 50% effective July 1, 2023 (3-0)
- Waived suspension for OM Shell and issued first violation warning (3-0)
- Appointed Member Walsh to work with Director Sullivan on the new E.L. Harvey & Son’s / Waste Connections contract
- Accepted Director's Report (3-0)
- Accepted Sanitarian's Report (3-0)
- Accepted Health Inspector's Report (3-0)
- Approved February 14, 2023 minutes (3-0)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will conduct continued and new hearings regarding land use and construction projects. The body will also discuss DPW maintenance categories and a restoration plan for 0 Gleason St.
- Continued hearing for a new commercial building at 165 Flanders Rd
- New hearing for DPW emergency stormwater work at 3 Hillcrest Drive
- New hearing for a Wastewater Treatment Plant electrical ductbank at 238 Turnpike Road
- Enforcement Order restoration plan for 0 Gleason St
- Discussion of Bowman Lane Culvert Replacement
The Commission issued determinations for work at 44 Fisher St, 3 Hillcrest Dr, and 238 Turnpike Rd, and approved an Order of Conditions for 37 Belknap St. It also accepted a restoration plan for the Ward Property and supported Town Meeting Article 16 for Hocomonco Pond public access.
- Issued Positive #2b & #5 and Negative #3 Determination for 44 Fisher St (6-0)
- Issued Order of Conditions with Special Conditions 1-22 for 37 Belknap St (5-0-1)
- Continued hearing for 165 Flanders Rd to April 11, 2023 (6-0)
- Issued Positive #2b & #5 and Negative #3 Determination for 3 Hillcrest Dr (6-0)
- Issued Positive #2b & #5 and Negative #3 Determination for 238 Turnpike Rd (6-0)
- Accepted Restoration Plan for Ward Property off Gleason Street (6-0)
- Approved De Minimis changes for West Park Drive detention basin (6-0)
- Recommended Select Board not exercise right of first refusal for 22 Lackey Street (6-0)
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will discuss several site plan applications and subdivision plans. The board will also vote on support for Article 16 regarding Hocomonco Pond property access.
- Public Hearing for Site Plan Review Application at 6 Bellows Rd, Boroughs Islamic Society
- Vote to support Article 16 Hocomonco Pond Property Access
- Limited Site Plan Application for 95 Turnpike Rd
- Preliminary Subdivision Plan for 48 Flanders Rd
- Earth Moving Permit continuation for 25 Gleason St
The Board approved a residential subdivision plan for 48 Flanders Rd with specific roadway and grading waivers. Public hearings for projects at 6 Bellows and 25 Gleason were continued to April 4. The Board also authorized the release of escrow funds for 22 completed projects.
- Approved Preliminary Subdivision Plan for 48 Flanders Rd (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 6 Bellows Site Plan Review to 4/4 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 25 Gleason Earth Moving Permit to 4/4 (5-0)
- Approved return of unneeded project escrow funds for 22 closed projects (5-0)
- Supported Article 33 for Town Meeting Zoning with three clerical revisions (5-0)
- Approved 2/7/23 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Tabled Silver Hollow Estates lot releases and bond reduction to 4/4
Board of Registrars
The agenda for the Westborough Board of Registrars meeting on March 18, 2023, is not available at this time. No specific items for decision or discussion are listed.
The Board of Registrars reviewed a provisional ballot from an 18-year-old who believed she was automatically registered via an RMV transaction. The Board voted to accept the ballot, and the totals were added to the election results.
- Approved acceptance of one provisional ballot (unanimous)
Design Review Board
The Westborough Design Review Board will meet to approve previous meeting minutes. The board will also review an application for a door sign and outdoor lighting at 32 West Main Street.
- Review of door sign and outdoor lighting application for The Coop at 32 West Main Street
- Approval of minutes for 8/5/2021, 9/2/2022, and 9/29/2022
Select Board
The Select Board will discuss the Annual Town Meeting Warrant and the FY2024 Budget, including presentations on debt and insurance. The board is also scheduled to vote on Bond Anticipation Notes and General Obligation Bonds.
- Vote to approve and execute Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs) and General Obligation Bonds
- Site Plan Overview: 6 Bellows Road
- Exercise Right of First Refusal: 22 Lackey Street
- FY2024 Budget discussion including debt budget and insurance budget
- Class 2 Dealer’s License Hearing: TD&J International Motors
The Select Board approved the sale of $10.39M in school bonds and $63.65M in bond anticipation notes. The Board also voted to support most Annual Town Meeting Warrant articles and approved several budget increases for insurance, electricity, and the Assabet Valley Technical High School.
- Approved $10,390,000 General Obligation School Bonds (5-0-0)
- Approved $63,652,366 General Obligation Bond Anticipation Notes (5-0-0)
- Approved insurance, electricity, and Assabet Valley Technical High School budget increases (5-0-0)
- Approved support for most Town Meeting Warrant articles except 10P, 13, 15, 16, 18, and 39 (5-0-0)
- Approved support for Warrant Articles 15, 18, and 39 (5-0-0)
- Scheduled hearing for March 28, 2023, to consider suspension or revocation of TD&J International Auto Sales license (5-0-0)
- Appointed Sean Keogh as Chairperson and Patrick Welch as Vice Chair (5-0-0 each)
- Appointed Becky Dolan to the Waste Management Exploratory Committee (5-0-0)
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The committee is meeting to discuss a presentation intended for the Finance Committee, Town Meeting, and other bodies. The session will also include project updates and the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Approval of March 8, 2023 meeting minutes
- Review of presentation for Finance Committee and Town Meeting
- Project updates
The Committee reviewed and modified a draft presentation for the Finance Committee and Town Meeting. Members voted to allow Shelby Marshall and Andy Koenigsberg to finalize the presentation. The Committee also designated presenters for upcoming meetings with the Select Board and Town Meeting.
- Approved motion to allow Shelby Marshall and Andy Koenigsberg to finalize the presentation (8-0-0)
- Selected Hank Rauch and Mark Silverberg to present to the Finance Committee and Select Board
- Selected Andy Koenigsberg and Mark Silverberg to present at Town Meeting
- Passed over approval of March 8, 2023 minutes as they were incomplete
Planning Board
The Planning Board will discuss Article 37 regarding the Climate Action Plan and Article 16 regarding Hocomonco Pond property access. The meeting includes several public hearing continuations for site plan reviews and a preliminary subdivision plan.
- Discussion of Article 37 to Abandon the Climate Action Plan
- Vote to support Article 16 Hocomonco Pond Property Access
- Silver Hollow Estates lot releases, bond reduction, and signage
- Continuation of Public Hearing for 165 Flanders Site Plan Review
- Preliminary Subdivision Plan for 48 Flanders Rd (Waterman Design)
The Planning Board voted to recommend defeating Article 39, which sought to abandon the town's Climate Action Plan. The board also approved a new entrance wall design for Silver Hollow Estates and continued several public hearings for site plan applications.
- Recommended defeating Article 39 to abandon the Climate Action Plan (3-2)
- Approved entry wall design Option B for Silver Hollow Estates (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 165 Flanders Rd Site Plan to 4/4/2023 (5-0)
- Continued discussion of Preliminary Subdivision Plan for 48 Flanders to 3/21/2023 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 190-212 Oak St and 1 Village Commons to 4/4/2023 (5-0)
- Tabled vote on Article 16 Hocomonco Pond Property Access to 3/21/2023
Historical Commission
The Historical Commission will meet to review minutes from January 18, 2022. Members will discuss updates regarding Design Review Board and Planning Board meetings.
- Discussion of January 18, 2022 meeting minutes
- Discussion of Design Review Board meetings
- Discussion of Planning Board meetings
Historical Commission
The Historical Commission will meet to review minutes from a previous meeting. Members will discuss updates regarding Design Review Board and Planning Board meetings.
- Discussion of January 18, 2022 meeting minutes
- Discussion of Design Review Board meetings
- Discussion of Planning Board meetings
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee discussed waste reduction options, including Pay As You Throw (PAYT) and the potential for a reclamation center. Members decided to skip resident outreach at the March 25 Town Meeting in favor of the May 13 Environmental Fair. The committee will invite Irene Congdon from the DEP to the April 4 meeting.
- Approved minutes from 07March 2023 (6-0)
- Decided to skip resident feedback efforts for the March 25 Town Meeting
- Targeted May 13 Environmental Fair for resident feedback
- Agreed to invite Irene Congdon from DEP to the April 4 meeting
Conservation Commission
The Commission will conduct several continued hearings regarding septic systems, home additions, and commercial building installations. New hearings are scheduled for emergency stormwater work at 3 Hillcrest Drive and an electrical ductbank at 238 Turnpike Road.
- Continued Hearing: Proposed addition to 44 Fisher St
- Continued Hearing: Proposed new septic system at 245 Turnpike Rd
- Continued Hearing: Proposed single family home construction at 37 Belknap St
- Continued Hearing: New commercial building at 165 Flanders Rd
- New Hearing: Emergency stormwater issue at 3 Hillcrest Drive
The Commission approved Negative 3 Determinations for a water line project on Flanders Road and a bridge replacement at Bowman Conservation Area. Two other project hearings were continued to the July 12, 2022 meeting. The board also discussed enforcement orders and potential changes to legal advertisement publications.
- Issued Negative 3 Determination for Flanders Road water line project (6-0)
- Issued Negative 3 Determination for Bowman Conservation Area bridge replacement (6-0)
- Continued Notice of Intent hearing for 245 Turnpike Road to July 12, 2022 (6-0)
- Continued Notice of Intent hearing for 25 & 29 Research Drive to July 12, 2022 (6-0)
- Tabled Open Space and Preservation Committee representative vote to July 12, 2022
- Tabled Certificate of Compliance for 289 Lyman Street to July 12, 2022
Recreation Commission
The Westborough Recreation Commission is meeting virtually to discuss and vote on forming a Country Club Building Use Committee, receive updates on the golf course and recreation programs, and consider a boat proposal from Algonquin Regional High School. The meeting includes a vote on the committee structure with the Commission and Director.
- Vote on Country Club Building Use Committee Commission + Director
- Discussion of Country Club Building Use Committee
- Golf course updates
- Haskell Lights discussion
- Algonquin RHS boat proposal
The Commission appointed Recreation Director Jennifer Kirkland to a committee tasked with deciding the future use of the building next to the golf pro shop. The board also discussed upcoming funding requests for Town Meeting and facility maintenance.
- Approved minutes from December 20, 2022 (unanimous)
- Appointed Recreation Director Jennifer Kirkland to the Country Club Building Use Committee (4-0)
Select Board
The Select Board will review the FY2024 budget and Town Meeting Warrant with presentations from various departments. The board is also voting on bond anticipation notes and general obligation bonds.
- Vote on Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs) and General Obligation Bonds
- Class 2 Dealer’s License Hearing for TD&J International Motors
- Exercise Right of First Refusal for 22 Lackey Street
- Site plan overview for 6 Bellows Road
- Discussion of FY2024 Budget and Annual Town Meeting Warrant
The Select Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 14, 2023, was cancelled due to inclement weather. The meeting was rescheduled for Thursday, March 16, 2023.
- Cancelled March 14 meeting due to inclement weather
- Rescheduled meeting to March 16, 2023
Planning Board
The Master Plan Implementation Committee is meeting to review prior minutes, discuss an updated implementation matrix, hear working group reports on priorities, and possibly vote on Master Plan goals and priorities. The agenda is substantive but does not include specific projects or dollar amounts.
- Discussion on Updated Implementation Matrix
- Working Group Discussion and Report of Priorities
- Possible Vote on Master Plan Goals and Priorities
The committee reviewed an updated implementation matrix and identified several high-priority goals across various categories. No vote was taken on the final list of priorities; that action was deferred to the next meeting.
- Approved minutes from 1/30/2023 meeting (11-0)
- Changed status of goal SCC 2-1 to 'In Progress'
- Changed status of goal PH 1-6 to 'In Progress'
- Updated status of PH 1-13 to 'In Progress' and designated as High Priority
- Updated status of PH 2-5 to 'In Progress' and designated as High Priority
- Eliminated goal TC 1-2 as a priority
- Removed goal SCC 1-4 from the list
- Adjourned meeting at 9:13 PM (14-0)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will review minutes from a previous meeting. The committee is scheduled to discuss an updated implementation matrix and reports of priorities.
- Review of prior meeting minutes
- Discussion on Updated Implementation Matrix
- Working Group Discussion and Report of Priorities
- Possible vote on Master Plan Goals and Priorities
The committee reviewed an updated implementation matrix and identified several high-priority goals across various categories. No final vote on the priority list was taken; that action is deferred to the next meeting.
- Approved minutes from 1/30/2023 meeting (11-0)
- Changed status of SCC 2-1 to 'In Progress'
- Changed status of PH 1-6 to 'In Progress'
- Identified H1-4, ED 3-1, LU 2-2, LU 3-4, SCC 1-7, NHC 1-2, NHC 1-3, OSR 3-2, PFS 4-1, TC 4-2, TC 2-1, and SCC 1-1 as High Priority
- Eliminated TC 1-2 as a priority
- Removed SCC 1-4 from the list
- Updated PH 1-13 and PH 2-5 to 'In Progress' and High Priority
Veterans' Advisory Board
The board is meeting to coordinate upcoming veteran-related events and programs. Discussions include Memorial Day planning, a flag burning event on June 17, 2023, and the Hometown Heroes banner project.
- Memorial Day plans and Grand Marshal nominations
- Flag Burning Event scheduled for June 17, 2023
- Hometown Heroes update regarding brackets for black poles to add two banners per pole
- Quilts of Valor presentations to Tony Pittman and Ray Fitzgerald
- Clearview Veterans Outreach event on March 24, 2023
The board approved the minutes from the February 6th meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of discussions regarding upcoming events, logistics, and promotions.
- Approved February 6th minutes
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The provided document contains only remote access instructions and procedural boilerplate for the meeting. No specific topics, decisions, or discussion items are listed.
The committee voted to support several ATM articles, including funding for trail engineering and pedestrian beacons. The committee also voted to reject a citizen petition to abandon the Climate Action Plan.
- Supported Article 11: $110k for BWALT engineering design (7-0)
- Supported Article 16: Funding for Hocomonco Pond walking trail (6-1)
- Supported Article 17: $14k for rapid flashing beacons at Milk and W. Main (7-0)
- Supported Article 31: CPA Implementation for Active Transportation (7-0)
- Rejected Article 39: Citizen petition to abandon Climate Action Plan (5-0-1)
- Tabled approval of previous meeting minutes
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The scheduled meeting for the Westborough Affordable Housing Trust on March 9, 2023, has been cancelled. No agenda items or business were recorded for this session.
Conservation Commission
The Westborough Conservation Commission will meet on March 14, 2023, to continue four public hearings and open two new ones, covering projects like a home addition, a new septic system, a single-family home, a commercial building, an emergency stormwater fix, and an electrical ductbank. They will also discuss several other matters, including a culvert replacement and DPW maintenance categories. Due to predicted stormy weather, the chair expects to continue the hearings to a later date and adjourn without additional business.
- Continued hearing: RDA #202, 44 Fisher St, addition to single-family home
- Continued hearing: NOI #332-0932, 245 Turnpike Rd, new septic system at Capworld
- Continued hearing: NOI #332-941, 37 Belknap St, new single-family home with driveway and utilities
- New hearing: RDA #203, 3 Hillcrest Drive, after-the-fact emergency stormwater work by DPW
- New hearing: RDA #204, 238 Turnpike Road, electrical ductbank by Wastewater Treatment Plant Board
The Commission granted a setback waiver and issued an Order of Conditions for 9 Otis Street LLC. A full Certificate of Compliance was issued for 25 Bridle Lane. Hearings for 2 Jasper Street and 29 Upton Road were continued to the next meeting.
- Granted setback waiver for 9 Otis Street (4-0)
- Issued Order of Conditions for 9 Otis Street (4-0)
- Issued full Certificate of Compliance for 25 Bridle Lane (4-0)
- Continued Notice of Intent hearing for 2 Jasper Street to April 12, 2022 (4-0)
- Continued Notice of Intent hearing for 29 Upton Road to April 12, 2022 (4-0)
Treatment Plant Board
The Westborough Treatment Plant Board will meet to review outstanding invoices and receive reports from the engineer and plant manager. Discussions include the Rotor Replacement Project and the 5-year Capital Plan.
- Outstanding invoices totaling $375,275.48, including $324,075.00 to Veolia
- Other invoices totaling $556,811.52, including $555,799.02 to Waterline
- FY 21 Encumbrances of $15,225.00 for AECOM Task Orders #3 and #5
- Update on the Rotor Replacement Project
- Review of the 5-year Capital Plan
The Board approved the minutes from the February 8, 2023 meeting and authorized payments for outstanding invoices and payroll. The Board also discussed updates regarding the Aeration Rotor Replacement Project and the 5 Year Capital Plan.
- Approved minutes of the February 8, 2023 regular meeting
- Authorized payment of outstanding invoices and payroll totaling $375,275.48
- Authorized payment of other invoices totaling $556,811.52
Sustainable Westborough
Sustainable Westborough will hold a hybrid meeting to review minutes, receive updates on the Building Energy Program, the 2023 Environmental Action Fair, the Waste Management Task Force, the Master Plan, and the 2023 EV Expo, and discuss votes on select Town Meeting warrant articles. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.
- Building Energy Program reporting
- 2023 Westborough Environmental Action Fair update
- Town Meeting votes on select Warrant Articles
- Waste Management Task Force update
- 2023 EV Expo planning update
The committee voted to oppose Town Meeting Article 39, which seeks to abolish the Community Action Plan (CAP), and authorized a presentation to defend the CAP. The committee also voted to support the budget for the Sustainability Development Coordinator position in Article 4.
- Approved February 2023 minutes (6-0)
- Approved moving April meeting to April 12 (consensus)
- Approved support for Sustainability Development Coordinator budget in Article 4 (6-0)
- Approved opposition to Article 39 to abolish the CAP (6-0)
- Approved authorization for Chair Dunbeck to present in defense of the CAP at Town Meeting (6-0)
- Decided not to take a position on Article 10 regarding vehicle replacements
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee will discuss bid documents for work plan tasks and priorities. The body will also review grant opportunities and a report from the Finance Committee.
- Vote on support of Article 16 on the 2023 Annual Town Meeting Warrant
- Discussion of Hocomonco Work Plan Tasks and Priorities bid documents proposal
- Review of grant opportunities
- Report from Finance Committee presentation
The Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee voted to support funding for Article 16 to address security fencing of capped areas. The committee also discussed a revised proposal from Tighe & Bond and potential grant opportunities through UConn and the Commonwealth.
- Approved recommendation for Article 16 funding of $30,820 (5-3-0)
- Approved February 8, 2023 minutes (9-0-0)
- Approved February 27, 2023 minutes (8-0-1)
Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health
The Board reviewed the DPH Capacity Assessment and discussed potential uses for COVID-19 and opioid grant funding. Members approved meeting minutes from September and December 2022. No other formal votes were taken on proposed health campaigns or equipment purchases.
- Approved meeting minutes from September 14, 2022 (3-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved revised meeting minutes from June 15, 2022 (All in favor)
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)
The committee will review its bylaws and discuss open membership positions. The meeting also includes an open forum and scheduling for the next session.
- Review of LEPC Bylaws
- Discussion of open committee membership positions
The committee appointed new officers and discussed hazardous materials reporting and emergency response. Members reviewed the status of Tier 1 and Tier 2 reporting and discussed the challenges of lithium-ion battery fires.
- Appointed Stephen Doucet as Chairperson
- Appointed Rebecca Roman as Vice-Chairperson
- Confirmed Lynn Keeley as Secretary
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee is meeting to finalize and score options for waste management and develop a plan for resident feedback. The group will also discuss a Technical Assistance Project with the DEP and prepare for a Select Board meeting.
- Finalization and scoring of go-forward options
- Development of a Resident Feedback Plan
- Discussion of Technical Assistance Project with the DEP
- Preparation for Select Board meeting
- Finalization of minutes from February 7 and February 15, 2023
The committee approved the February 15, 2023, meeting minutes. Members discussed potential public outreach for the March 25 Annual Town Meeting and the possibility of requesting technical assistance from the State DEP. The committee determined it is not yet ready to provide a formal recommendation to the Select Board for the March 28 meeting.
- Approved February 15, 2023, meeting minutes (6-0)
- Established a 5-point scoring rubric for waste options prioritizing waste reduction and cost
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee will discuss the EDC Business Assistance Grant Program. Members will also consider votes regarding support for Town Meeting articles related to Planning Board zoning bylaws.
- Discussion: EDC Business Assistance Grant Program
- Vote: Support for Article 32 – Amend Zoning Bylaws (Planning Board)
- Vote: Support for Article 33 – Update to Zoning Bylaws (Planning Board)
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will hold a meeting on February 28, 2023, at 6:30 PM. The agenda includes continuation of public hearings for an earth moving permit at 25 Gleason St, site plan reviews for 165 Flanders Rd and 200-212 Oak St, a modification to a special permit for Village Commons at 1 Gleason St, an update to zoning bylaws, and informal discussions on Town Meeting zoning articles and a notice of intent to sell and convert land under MGL Ch. 61.
- Continuation of public hearing for Earth Moving Permit at 25 Gleason St
- Continuation of public hearing for Site Plan Review at 165 Flanders Rd
- Continuation of public hearing for Site Plan Application at 190-212 Oak St
- Continuation of public hearing to modify Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason St
- Discussion of Notice of Intent to Sell and Convert Land Under MGL Ch. 61
The Planning Board voted to support Article 33 to amend zoning bylaws and recommended that the Select Board not exercise purchase rights for a parcel on Lackey Street. Several public hearings for site plans and permits were continued to future dates.
- Supported Article 33 to amend Zoning Bylaws (4-0)
- Recommended Select Board not exercise Ch. 61 rights to purchase 1.2 acres at 22 Lackey Street (4-0)
- Continued public hearing for Earth Moving Permit at 25 Gleason to 3/21/23 (4-0)
- Continued public hearing for 165 Flanders site plan to 3/15/23 (4-0)
- Continued discussion of preliminary plan for 48 Flanders subdivision to 3/15/23 (4-0)
- Continued public hearing for 190-212 Oak Street site plan and 1 Gleason Street special permit modification to 3/15/23 (4-0)
Select Board
The Select Board will present the FY2024 budget and articles for the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. The body will also hold a hearing regarding a license for a Mobil Station and discuss several union agreements.
- Hearing for Mobil Station Class 2 License at 24 East Main Street
- FY2024 Budget and Annual Town Meeting Warrant presentation
- Citizen's Petition to abandon Climate Action Plan
- Memorandums of Agreement for Patrol, Clerical, and DPW Unions
- Regional Dispatch Center Intermunicipal Agreement
The Select Board approved a regional 911 emergency communication district with Grafton and Southborough. The Board also approved several union contracts and the FY2024 budgets, including the Planning Department and Youth Commission. Additionally, the Board placed Articles 1-39 on the Annual Town Meeting warrant.
- Approved regional 911 emergency communication district agreement with Grafton and Southborough (5-0-0)
- Extended Class II Dealer License to Mobil Station at 24 East Main Street with specific parking and access restrictions (5-0-0)
- Approved Memorandum of Agreement for Patrol Officers Union (4-0-0)
- Approved Memorandum of Agreement for Public Works Union (4-0-0)
- Approved Memorandum of Agreement for Clerical Union (4-0-0)
- Supported FY2024 budgets, including Planning Department and Youth Commission (5-0-0)
- Placed Articles 1-39 on the Annual Town Meeting warrant (5-0-0)
- Appointed Ian Johnson as representative to the Golf Club Building Use Committee (5-0-0)
Design Review Board
The Westborough Design Review Board is meeting to consider sign applications and receive a project update. The board will review a temporary sign request and discuss the status of Village Commons.
- Temporary Sign Application for Spirit of Halloween at 1500 Union St. Suite 101
- Update on Village Commons, J Gleason St
- Postponed Sign Application for Baystate Commons, 12 Union
Planning Board
The meeting scheduled for February 27, 2023, was cancelled on February 23, 2023. The agenda was intended to cover prior meeting minutes and a working group report on priorities.
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee will review a revised work plan proposal from Tighe & Bond and vote on whether to recommend an article for the 2023 Annual Town Meeting Warrant to the Select Board. The committee will also approve minutes from a previous meeting.
- Review of revised Hocomonco Work Plan Tasks and Priorities proposal from Tighe & Bond
- Discussion and vote on recommendation to Select Board for an article on the 2023 Annual Town Meeting Warrant
- Approval of meeting minutes from February 8, 2022
Board of Assessors
The Westborough Board of Assessors will meet to approve minutes, sign excise warrants for FY 22/23, and discuss the meeting calendar. In executive session, they will review and vote on current statutory exemptions and abatements.
- Review and sign FY 22/23 excise warrants and commitments
- Review and vote on current statutory exemptions
- Review and vote on current abatements
- Discussion regarding meeting calendar for upcoming months
Disability Commission
The Westborough Commission on Disabilities will meet to review the effectiveness of Via Rideshare services for the town's disabled population. The body will also approve previous meeting minutes and hold a general discussion.
- Discussion of Via Rideshare service handicap accessibility and effectiveness
Library Board of Trustees
The Westborough Library Board of Trustees will discuss a Town Meeting warrant article for a library repair project, including public information sessions. They will also review and possibly revise the Library Code of Conduct and Meeting Room Policy, and discuss a mural formerly in the Forbes Building.
- Town Meeting warrant article discussion for library repair project
- Public info sessions for warrant article - dates, locations, presenters
- Library Code of Conduct - further discussion/revisions
- Meeting Room Policy - revision
- Discussion of mural formerly in Forbes Building
The Board of Trustees approved changes to the tutoring policy and the Room of Things policy. Trustees discussed a $347,959 Town Meeting Warrant for building repairs and potential new codes of conduct for the board.
- Approved minutes from Jan. 25 and Feb. 15, 2023 (Baldwin abstained)
- Approved Treasurer's Report
- Approved tutoring policy changes requiring tutors to sign up and check in
- Approved Room of Things policy to limit hotspot loans to Westborough residents
- Tabled Library Code of Conduct policy discussion
Open Space Preservation Committee
The Open Space Preservation Committee will meet remotely to discuss and vote on land recommendations and surveys. The body will also review the Community Preservation Act and the Master Plan implementation.
- Vote on recommendation for 22 Lackey St Chapter 61
- Vote on survey and appraisal for Bowman St parcel
- Discussion and possible vote on Community Preservation Act
- Updates on Hoccomonco Pond
- Master Plan implementation discussion
The Open Space Preservation Committee voted to recommend against the purchase of a lot at 22 Lackey St. The committee also voted in favor of Article 18. No action was taken regarding Bowman St.
- Recommended not to purchase 1.23 ac lot at 22 Lackey St. (4-0)
- Voted in favor of Article 18, CPC (4-0)
Diversity & Inclusion Committee
The committee will review minutes from the January 19, 2023 meeting and hear an overview of Westborough’s Open Town Meeting from Town Moderator John Arnold. The session also includes time for issues, correspondence, and planning future meeting topics.
- Approval of minutes from January 19, 2023
- Overview of Open Town Meeting by John Arnold
The Committee discussed a proposal to hire a consultant to conduct a community survey to identify strengths and needs for Town services. No formal votes were taken on the proposal, but members agreed to develop a presentation for the Select Board.
- Deferred review of January minutes to next month
- Agreed to develop a PowerPoint presentation on the survey proposal (Ian Lyons and Shazia Tariq)
- Adjourned meeting (9-0)
Historical Commission
The Historical Commission will meet to review minutes from January 18, 2022. Members will discuss updates regarding Design Review Board and Planning Board meetings, as well as an MHC Survey Grant.
- Discussion of January 18, 2022 meeting minutes
- Design Review Board meetings
- Planning Board meetings
- MHC Survey Grant
Library Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees will discuss and vote on pricing proposals from LPAA and Vertex for a library repair project. The meeting also includes a review of the meeting room policy and a discussion regarding a Town Meeting warrant article.
- Vote on library repair pricing proposals from LPAA and Vertex
- Discussion of Town Meeting warrant article
- Update to Meeting Room Policy
The Board of Trustees accepted price proposals from LPAA and Vertex to fund a building study and schematic designs for library repairs. This initial phase is expected to take six months to one year, and the building committee recommended placing a request for these funds on the town warrant.
- Approved $347,959 for building study and schematic design costs (7-0)
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee will meet to finalize the criteria, weighting, and scoring for future waste management options. The committee will also discuss the closure of the transfer station by Waste Connections.
- Finalize criteria and weighting for waste management options
- Revisit and finalize go-forward options
- Score go-forward options
- Discuss Transfer Station closure by Waste Connections
- Finalize minutes from the February 7, 2023 meeting
The committee voted to remove 'Equity including recycling and bulky item accessibility for Multi Family Dwellings' from its formal criteria, though it will be noted in presentations. Members also approved the rankings of six remaining criteria and established a timeline for recommendations to the Select Board.
- Removed criteria item #7 regarding multi-family dwelling equity (6-0)
- Approved rankings of the 6 remaining criteria (6-0)
- Scheduled ad hoc meeting for March 15 at 5:00pm
- Appointed N. Askew, P. Allen, and S. Marshall to a subgroup for resident feedback
Planning Board
The Planning Board is holding public hearings on three Town Meeting Articles regarding the town's Zoning Bylaws. These include a proposal to reorganize and renumber the bylaws and a proposal to adopt broad changes to eight different articles of the code.
- Public hearing on reorganizing and renumbering the Zoning Bylaw per the January 2023 Final Draft
- Public hearing on amendments to Zoning Bylaw Articles 1 through 8
- Public hearing on amending Zoning Bylaw Section 8.2 regarding projecting signs
- Public hearing on amending Zoning Bylaw Section 8.2 regarding Historical Districts and National Register properties
The Planning Board voted to support two Town Meeting articles regarding the reorganization of zoning bylaws and the allowance of projecting signs in specific districts. A third article proposing substantive zoning changes was continued to a future meeting.
- Supported Town Meeting Article 29 to reorganize and renumber zoning bylaws (5-0)
- Supported Town Meeting Article 31 to allow projecting signs in Downtown Business, Downtown Planning Overlay, and Gateway 2 districts and transfer signage approval authority to the Design Review Board (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for Town Meeting Article 30 regarding substantive zoning changes until February 28, 2023 (5-0)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will conduct public hearings regarding tobacco sales noncompliance for four businesses and a variance for Sapporo Sushi. The board will also discuss pool closures at Boston Sports Club and provide updates on waste management.
- Public hearing for Sapporo Sushi variance
- Public hearings for tobacco sales noncompliance: Kings Smoke Shop, 7-Eleven, OM Shell, and Andy’s Variety
- Discussion on Boston Sports Club pool closure, reopening, and variance
- Waste Connections update and discussion
- Waste Management Exploratory Committee update
Conservation Commission
The Westborough Conservation Commission will hold continued hearings on three projects: a new commercial building at Cumberland Farms, a septic system at Capworld, and aquatic management of Gables Pond. Two new hearings will also begin: a home addition at 44 Fisher St and a new home at 37 Belknap St. The meeting includes discussion of an enforcement order at 25 Gleason St and other business.
- Continued hearing for new commercial building at 165 Flanders Rd (Cumberland Farms warehouse)
- Continued hearing for new septic system at 245 Turnpike Rd (Capworld)
- New hearing for home addition at 44 Fisher St
- New hearing for single-family home construction at 37 Belknap St
- Enforcement order for restoration and site plan updates at 25 Gleason St
The Commission approved an Order of Conditions for work at Gables Pond. Several other project hearings were continued to March 14, 2023, and the board authorized using wetlands transmittal fee funds for staff conference attendance.
- Issued Order of Conditions with Special Conditions 1-16 for Gables Pond (5-0)
- Approved use of wetlands transmittal fee funds for staff attendance at spring 2023 MACC Annual Environmental Conference (5-0)
- Continued NOI hearing for 165 Flanders Rd to March 14, 2023 (5-0)
- Continued NOI hearing for 245 Turnpike Rd to March 14, 2023 (4-0)
- Continued RDA hearing for 44 Fisher St to March 14, 2023 (5-0)
- Continued NOI hearing for 37 Belknap St to March 14, 2023 (5-0)
Select Board
The Westborough Select Board will convene for a regular meeting on February 14, 2023, at 6:00 PM. Key agenda items include a hearing for a Class 2 Dealer's License, a request to fund a flashing crosswalk sign at the Rotary, and a discussion of Annual Town Meeting warrant articles and the FY2024 budget. The board will also consider establishing a Country Club Building Use Committee and executing an intermunicipal agreement for a regional emergency communication center.
- Class 2 Dealer's License Hearing for TD&J International Motors
- Request for Article to Fund Flashing Crosswalk Sign at Rotary
- Annual Town Meeting Warrant Articles and FY2024 Budget Discussion
- Establish Country Club Building Use Committee
- Execute Intermunicipal Agreement for Regional Emergency Communication Center
The Select Board approved an intermunicipal agreement to establish a regional 911 emergency communication center with Grafton, Hopkinton, and Southborough. The Board also voted to request funding for flashing crosswalk signage on West Main Street and established a committee to evaluate the use of the Golf Club building.
- Approved regional 911 emergency communication center agreement with Grafton, Hopkinton, and Southborough (4-0-0)
- Approved adding a Town Meeting article to fund flashing crosswalk signage on West Main Street (4-0-0)
- Established Golf Club Building Use Committee with a recommendation deadline of October 1, 2023 (4-0-0)
- Scheduled a March 14, 2023 hearing to consider suspension or revocation of TD&J International Motors' Class 2 Dealer’s License (4-0-0)
- Appointed Jeffrey Levine to Sustainable Westborough (4-0-0)
- Re-appointed John Gallinagh and Ken West to Westborough TV’s Board of Directors (4-0-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from January 24 and January 26, 2023 (4-0-0)
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The provided text contains only Zoom connection details and public access information. There are no specific agenda items, proposals, or decisions listed for this meeting.
The committee approved the minutes from November 28, 2023, and January 9, 2023. Members discussed the BWALT trail design, potential federal grants for a Vision Zero plan, and easements for a dealership at 180-182 Turnpike Rd. No other formal votes were taken on proposed projects.
- Approved minutes from 11/28/2023 and 1/9/2023 (5-0-1)
Council on Aging Board
The Board approved the January 9, 2023, meeting minutes. Members decided to provide meeting materials via email to COA members who request them. The Board discussed significant transportation challenges and a projected budget shortfall due to bus repairs.
- Approved Secretary's minutes from January 9, 2023
- Decided to scan and email meeting materials to requesting COA members
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The board will discuss and update on several housing and infrastructure projects, including a Town Meeting warrant article, the status of wastewater reallocation, and opportunities along East Main Street. They will also meet with Acton Housing and consider a High Street extension concept.
- Update on RFP for Baylor Ave
- Town Meeting Warrant Article
- Meeting with Acton Housing
- Opportunities along East Main Street
- High Street Extension Concept
The Trust approved minutes from December 2022 and January 2023. Trustees discussed a proposed warrant article to transfer $600,000 in mitigation funds from Pulte to the Trust and reviewed a conceptual plan for a 0% loan program for first-time homebuyers.
- Approved January 12, 2023 minutes (6-0)
- Approved December 14, 2022 minutes (6-0)
- Approved continuing work on the first-time homebuyer program conceptual plan
- Voted to enter executive session to approve December 14, 2022 executive minutes (5-0)
Capital Expenditure Planning Committee
The Capital Expenditures Planning Committee is reviewing recommendations and updates for several capital projects listed in the draft Town Meeting Warrant. These items include infrastructure, school, and library improvements.
- Stormwater Infrastructure Improvements (Article 18)
- Multi-Use Trail Design (Article 10)
- Hastings School ADA Construction (Article 9Q)
- Library Building Improvements and Design (Article 11)
- Utility Tractor Replacement (Article 9N)
The Capital Expenditure Planning Committee voted to support several funding requests for the Town Meeting Warrant, including stormwater infrastructure and a multi-use trail grant match. The committee also approved funding for library design services and a golf course utility tractor.
- Supported Stormwater Infrastructure Improvements Article 18 (6-0-0)
- Supported $110,000 grant match for Multi-Use Trail Design Article 10 (6-0-0)
- Supported $347,959 for Library Building Improvements and Design Article 11 (6-0-0)
- Supported $50,000 for Utility Tractor Replacement Article 9N (6-0-0)
- Approved November 21, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0-0)
Treatment Plant Board
The Westborough Sewer Board will review outstanding invoices totaling $378,404.78, including payments to Veolia, Kearsarge, and National Grid. The board will also discuss the NPDES modification comment letter, an AECOM sludge memo, the rotor replacement project, and a 5-year capital plan.
- Outstanding invoices: $378,404.78 total, including Veolia ($324,075), Kearsarge ($2,825.18), and National Grid ($48,510.60)
- NPDES Modification Comment Letter
- AECOM updated Sludge memo
- Rotor Replacement Project update
- 5 year Capital Plan discussion
The Board authorized payments for Veolia, Kearsarge, and National Grid, as well as administrator payroll. It also approved an NPDES modification comment letter and a revised sludge memo for AECOM Task Order #5.
- Approved minutes of the January 11, 2023 meeting
- Authorized payment of invoices for Veolia ($324,075.00 and $2,994.00), Kearsarge ($2,825.18), and National Grid ($48,510.60)
- Authorized Administrator payroll of $2,521.00
- Approved NPDES modification comment letter
- Approved AECOM Task Order #5 sludge memo revision
Sustainable Westborough
The Sustainable Westborough committee will meet to discuss items for the Annual Town Meeting. The agenda includes reporting on electricity and sustainable living programs and an update on the Environmental Action Fair.
- Table for Annual Town Meeting
- Clean Electricity Program Reporting
- Sustainable Living Program Reporting
- Framingham Eversource Pilot Geothermal Project
- Westborough Environmental Action Fair Update
The committee voted to recommend that the Select Board amend the town's electricity aggregation contract to allow an adder. Members also reviewed waste management criteria and planned for the upcoming 2023 Westborough Energy Fair.
- Approved January 2023 minutes (5-0)
- Recommended Select Board amend electricity aggregation contract to allow an adder (5-0)
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee will review a work plan proposal from Tighe & Bond, then vote on whether to support submitting it to the Select Board and placing an article on the 2023 Annual Town Meeting Warrant. The committee will also approve minutes from its January 11, 2022 meeting.
- Vote on supporting submission of Hocomonco work plan proposal to Select Board
- Vote on placing an article on the 2023 Annual Town Meeting Warrant
- Review of Hocomonco Work Plan Tasks and Priorities proposal from Tighe & Bond
- Approval of meeting minutes from January 11, 2022
The committee agreed to request a revised proposal from Tighe & Bond to include a Health and Safety Plan and cost estimates for security fencing and site management. These elements are intended for a future Town Meeting Article. Jennifer Miller was assigned to follow up on these requests.
- Approved January 11, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0-0)
- Agreed to request Health and Safety Plan from Tighe & Bond
- Agreed to request revised proposal from Tighe & Bond for LSP oversight, soil management, fence installation supervision, and regulatory filings
- Requested list of certified fence installation contractors from Tighe & Bond
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee will vote on a Small Business Award winner and discuss the Business Assistance Grant Program. The meeting includes a presentation on the Building Energy Code and updates on the Night Market project.
- Vote on New “Small” Business Award Winner
- Presentation on Building Energy Code by Pete Dunbeck
- Discussion on EDC Business Assistance Grant Program
- Update on “Night Market” Project
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will meet on February 7, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. in the Great Hall of the Forbes Building. The agenda includes a vote to support Town Meeting Warrant Article 16 for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, continuations of public hearings for site plans at 171 Flanders Road and 190-212 Oak Street, a preliminary subdivision plan for 48 Flanders Road, and a continuation of a hearing to modify a special permit for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street. The board will also discuss Town Meeting zoning articles informally.
- Support for Town Meeting Warrant Article 16: Transfer to Affordable Housing Trust Fund
- Continuation of Public Hearing for 171 Flanders Road site plan review
- Preliminary subdivision plan for 48 Flanders Road (Waterman Design)
- Continuation of Public Hearing for 190-212 Oak Street site plan application
- Continuation of Public Hearing to modify special permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason Street
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee will finalize minutes from the January 9 meeting and follow up on a previous meeting with Waste Connections. Members are scheduled to discuss establishing criteria and weightings for evaluating future waste management options.
- Finalize minutes from 09Jan2023 meeting
- Follow up from Waste Connections meeting on 11Jan2023
- Establish evaluation criteria and weighting for waste management options
- Discussion of deferred Article 30 from Sustainable Westborough
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee decided it cannot support Deferred Article 30 from Sustainable Westborough based on the committee's charge. Members also updated evaluation criteria for future waste management options following the announcement that the Transfer Station will close in June 2023.
- Approved meeting minutes from 09Jan2023 (6-0)
- Declined support for Deferred Article 30 from Sustainable Westborough
- Removed 'status quo' from evaluation options due to Transfer Station closure
- Updated evaluation criteria to include 'Total Cost of Operations' and 'Cost to Household'
Veterans' Advisory Board
The Westborough Veterans' Advisory Board will hold a regular meeting on February 6, 2023. Agenda items include introducing the new Veterans Service Officer Jeff Farrell, discussing a memorial dedication in Veterans Park, and planning for Memorial Day and a flag burning event. The board will also receive updates on the Veterans Corner, Hometown Heroes program, Quilts of Valor, and social media promotion.
- Introduce new VSO – Jeff Farrell (tentative)
- Memorial Dedication in Veterans Park – update
- Flag Burning Event: June 6 – update
- Memorial Day Plans – discussion
- Quilts of Valor – update
The board accepted the minutes from the January 6 meeting and approved the final copy of the winter newsletter. Members discussed planning for Memorial Day, a flag burning event, and a memorial dedication.
- Accepted January 6 minutes
- Approved final copy of Winter Newsletter
Cultural Council
The Westborough Cultural Council is meeting to approve minutes, review financial reports, and discuss several upcoming events including the 2023 Grant Reception and Arts in Common. The council will also consider a request from the Westborough Historical Society, explore ideas for the Old Vienna Koffeehaus, and continue discussion on a Public Art Policy.
- Approve January meeting minutes
- 2023 Cultural Council Grant Reception planning for March 2023
- Arts in Common event discussion for September 30, 2023
- Westborough Historical Society request
- Public Art Policy discussion
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee is meeting to review minutes from November 28 and hold work-group discussions regarding priority reports.
- Review of November 28 meeting minutes
- Work-group discussion and report of priorities
The committee discussed how to organize working groups and prioritize goals from the Master Plan. Members debated whether to prioritize by individual interest, difficulty, or group consensus. No goals were finalized; the committee will identify implementation priorities at the February 13 meeting.
- Approved minutes from 12/12/2022 meeting (10-0-1)
Planning Board
The Westborough Master Plan Implementation Committee will hold its fourth meeting to review minutes from the November 28 meeting and discuss work-group priorities. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.
- Review of November 28 meeting minutes
- Work-group discussion and report of priorities
The committee discussed how to organize working groups and prioritize goals from the Master Plan. Members debated whether to prioritize goals by individual interest, difficulty, or group consensus. No substantive policy decisions were made other than the approval of previous minutes.
- Approved minutes from 12/12/2022 meeting (10-0-1)
Select Board
The Select Board and Advisory Finance Committee will meet to review budget presentations for Fiscal Year 2024. Department heads will present budgets and warrant articles for IT, Community Development, DPW, Police, Fire, and Schools.
- FY2024 Budget Presentation
- IT Budget and Warrant Articles presentation
- Community Development Budget and Warrant Articles presentation
- DPW Budget and Warrant Articles presentation
- Police Department Budget and Warrant Article presentation
The Select Board and Advisory Finance Committee held a joint budget summit to review FY2024 budget presentations and warrant articles from town departments. The meeting consisted primarily of presentations and discussions; no formal votes were taken on budget allocations.
- Endorsed the Stormwater Utility Fund Bylaw
- Approved motion to adjourn meeting (AFC 9-0-0, Select Board 5-0-0)
Library Board of Trustees
The Westborough Public Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular monthly meeting to discuss the library building project, including costs from a December fire and a Town Meeting article, and to vote on an updated Acceptable Use Policy/Code of Conduct. The board will also hear reports from the secretary, treasurer, and Friends & Foundation, and review other building or committee issues.
- Discussion of December fire and repair costs for a fan unit
- Town Meeting article discussion for the library building project
- Vote on updated Acceptable Use Policy/Code of Conduct
The Board approved a new mission statement for the Library Building Committee and accepted the December meeting minutes and treasurer's report. Trustees discussed a December HVAC unit failure and the need for a Town Meeting warrant article for design work on library repairs.
- Approved Library Building Committee mission statement (8-0)
- Approved December meeting minutes (6-0, 1 abstention)
- Accepted Treasurer's report (8-0)
Disability Commission
The Westborough Commission on Disabilities will meet to review minutes and hold a general discussion. The meeting includes a presentation from the Westborough Police Department regarding handicap parking downtown.
- Handicap parking downtown discussion with Lt. Mike Daniels and Lt. Cliff Luce
Select Board
The Select Board is meeting to conduct a public hearing on the FY2024 Budget alongside the Capital Expenditures Planning and Advisory Finance Committees. The board will also consider permits, intermunicipal agreements, and the Annual Town Meeting Warrant.
- FY2024 Budget Public Hearing
- Courtyard Marriot Innkeeper/Lodging House Permit Hearing
- Intermunicipal Agreement for Regional Dispatch Center
- Waiver of permit and utility fees for affordable housing at 3 Baylor Avenue
- Acceptance of easements for West Park Drive
The Select Board approved fee waivers for an affordable housing project and accepted easements for West Park Drive. The Board also held a public hearing on the FY2024 budget and authorized a grant support letter for the BWALT trail design.
- Waived permit, sewer connection, and privilege fees for affordable housing project at 3 Baylor Avenue (5-0-0)
- Accepted trail, temporary construction, and drainage easements for West Park Drive (5-0-0)
- Authorized Chair to sign MassTrails grant support letter for BWALT design (5-0-0)
- Closed FY2024 Budget public hearing (5-0-0)
- Closed Courtyard Marriott Innkeeper/Lodging House Permit public hearing (5-0-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from December 27, 2022 and January 10, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Decided not to issue a new RFP for the Westborough Country Club restaurant lease at this time
- Agreed to add October Town Meeting timing change as an article on the Annual Town Meeting warrant
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust is meeting to review project updates and discuss potential warrant articles for the Annual Town Meeting. The body will also review an RFP version for 3 Baylor Avenue.
- Discussion of potential warrant articles for Annual Town Meeting
- RFP version review for 3 Baylor Avenue
- Update on The Residences at Westborough Station
- Project update for Endicott Drive
- Project update for Rogers Road
Youth Commission
This meeting has no published agenda. The agenda text states only that no agenda is available and directs readers to review the minutes.
The Youth Commission received updates on a vacant social worker position and an upcoming Mental Health & Wellness Resource Fair. Members discussed student issues regarding high school curriculum, discipline for racist behavior, and the implementation of IEP/504 accommodations.
- Adjourned meeting (Unanimous)
Planning Board
The meeting scheduled for Monday, January 23, 2023, has been cancelled due to weather conditions.
Diversity & Inclusion Committee
The Diversity & Inclusion Committee will meet to discuss committee priorities and review information shared by department heads. The body will also discuss draft DEI lens questions and future agenda topics.
- Discussion of committee priorities
- Review of information from department heads
- Drafting of DEI lens questions and considerations
The Diversity & Inclusion Committee voted to update a proposal narrative to seek Select Board support for a community survey in April. The goal is to hire a consultant to identify equity and inclusion strengths and challenges, with funding sought at the October 2022 Special Town Meeting.
- Approved December 16, 2021 meeting minutes (9-0)
- Approved updating the community survey proposal narrative for presentation to the Select Board in April (8-0)
Historical Commission
The Westborough Historical Commission will meet to discuss several administrative and community items. The agenda includes updates from the Design Review and Planning Boards and a discussion on street names for a development at Flanders Rd.
- Street names for Josiah Rich’s development at Flanders Rd.
- MHC Survey Grant
- Gravestones
- Design Review Board meetings
- Planning Board meetings
The Commission approved the minutes from December 14, 2022. Members discussed potential street names for a new development and a draft RFP for gravestones. The board also reviewed a presentation on adding historical properties to the MACRIS system.
- Approved December 14, 2022 minutes
- Discussed street names Newton Farm Road and Bee Hive Circle for a development
- Reviewed draft RFP for gravestones
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board will hold a meeting on January 17, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in the Great Hall of the Forbes Building. The agenda includes continuations of public hearings for an earth moving permit at 25 Gleason St, site plan applications for 180-182 Turnpike Rd, 165 Flanders Rd, and 190-212 Oak St, as well as a modification to a special permit for Village Commons at 1 Gleason St. The board will also consider a de minimis change to the approved site plan for 64 Otis St and a preliminary subdivision plan for 48 Flanders Rd.
- Continuation of public hearing for Earth Moving Permit at 25 Gleason St
- De minimis change to approved site plan for 64 Otis St
- Continuation of public hearing and possible decision for 180-182 Turnpike Rd site plan
- Preliminary subdivision plan for 48 Flanders Rd (Waterman Design)
- Continuation of public hearing to modify commercial component of Special Permit T-OV#2014-1 for Village Commons at 1 Gleason St
The Planning Board approved a site plan for TTHY Westborough, LLC and a minor change to the site plan at 64 Otis Street. Several other public hearings were continued to February dates. The board also made several committee appointments and released unused escrow funds.
- Approved Site Plan Review for TTHY Westborough, LLC at 180-182 Turnpike Road (4-1)
- Approved de minimis change to Site Plan for 64 Otis Street (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 25 Gleason Street to February 28, 2023 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 165 Flanders Road to February 7, 2023 (5-0)
- Continued discussion for 48 Flanders Road subdivision to February 7, 2023 (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 190-212 Oak Street and Village Commons modification to February 7, 2023 (5-0)
- Appointed Peter Bouchard as CMRPC delegate and Town Planner as alternate (5-0)
- Released unused escrow balances for 80 Turnpike Road and 9 Otis Street (5-0)
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee is meeting to follow up on a January 11 meeting with Waste Connections. Members intend to finalize and weight the criteria used to evaluate future waste management options.
- Follow up from Waste Connections meeting on 11Jan2023
- Finalization of evaluation criteria for waste management options
- Discussion on weighting criteria for the rubric
- Approval of minutes from 09Jan2023 meeting
The meeting scheduled for January 17, 2023, was not held because a quorum was not reached. No substantive decisions were made.
Westborough Affordable Housing Trust
The Westborough Affordable Housing Trust will discuss potential warrant articles for the Annual Town Meeting and review a Request for Proposals version for 3 Baylor Avenue. Updates will also be provided on The Residences at Westborough Station, Endicott Drive, and Rogers Road.
- Discussion of potential warrant articles for Annual Town Meeting
- 3 Baylor Avenue - RFP version review
- Update on The Residences at Westborough Station
- Update on Endicott Drive
- Update on Rogers Road
The Trust approved the RFP for 3 Baylor Avenue to proceed to Town Counsel for review. Trustees discussed potential warrant articles for the Annual Town Meeting and reviewed updates on the Residences at Westborough Station litigation.
- Approved minutes from November 10, 2022 (6-0)
- Approved minutes from December 8, 2022 (6-0)
- Approved 3 Baylor Avenue RFP for Town Counsel review
- Decided to move forward with requesting transfer of Endicott Drive property
Cultural Council
The Westborough Cultural Council will meet on January 11, 2023, to approve minutes from December 7, 2022, review a finance report, discuss updates and questions on awarded grants, consider a grant reception for grantees, and update the public art policy.
- Approve minutes from 12/7/22 meeting
- Finance report from Treasurer Maureen Johnson
- Updates on awarded grants and grantee questions/extensions
- Discuss a grant reception for grantees
- Public Art Policy updates
The Westborough Cultural Council approved the December meeting minutes and granted a project extension to 2023 for a grant requested by Bonnie Cochran. Members discussed potential plans for a March grant reception and ways to honor the Old Vienna Kauffeehaus.
- Approved December meeting minutes
- Approved grant extension to 2023 for Bonnie Cochran
Treatment Plant Board
This meeting has no published agenda. The only material is the draft minutes from the January 11, 2023 board meeting. The board is not deciding or discussing any listed items.
Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee
The Hocomonco Pond Re-Use Committee will meet on January 11, 2023 to approve prior meeting minutes, receive a Regional Dispatch Center update, discuss the Hocomonco Work Plan Tasks and Priorities document, and vote on whether to support submitting that document to the Licensed Site Professional (LSP).
- Vote on submitting Hocomonco Work Plan Tasks and Priorities document to LSP
- Discussion of Hocomonco Work Plan Tasks and Priorities document
- Regional Dispatch Center update
- Approval of December 14, 2022 meeting minutes
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee is meeting to approve a warrant article for the 2023 Annual Town Meeting regarding the Business Assistance Grant Program. The committee will also vote on nominees for several business awards and receive updates on the Night Market project.
- Vote on Warrant Article for 2023 Annual Town Meeting regarding EDC Business Assistance Grant Program
- Votes on nominees for Large Business, Small Business, Innovation, Civic Pride, and Hall of Fame awards
- Guest presentation on Westborough Connects
- Update on the Night Market project
- Reports from the Planning and Community Development Departments
Select Board
The Select Board will conduct a permit hearing for the Courtyard Marriott at 3 Technology Drive. The board is also discussing the development of a Stormwater Utility Fund and the Annual Town Meeting Warrant.
- Innkeeper/Lodging House Permit Hearing for Courtyard Marriott at 3 Technology Drive
- Development of Stormwater Utility Fund
- Annual Town Meeting Warrant discussion
- Recommendation to terminate parking license with Congregational Church/Library Board of Trustees
- Appointment of Linda Smith as Treasurer/Collector
The Select Board appointed a new Treasurer/Collector, Temporary Town Clerk, and Deputy Emergency Management Director. The Board also voted to end a parking license agreement with the Congregational Church and approved the Rotary Club's request for a 5K run. A hearing for the Courtyard Marriott's lodging permit was continued to January 24.
- Approved Rotary Club 5K Fun Run at Lake Chauncy for June 17, 2023 (4-0-0)
- Appointed Deputy Fire Chief Stephen Doucet as Deputy Emergency Management Director (4-0-0)
- Concurred with appointment of Linda Smith as Treasurer/Collector (4-0-0)
- Appointed Deborah Ledoux as Temporary Town Clerk (4-0-0)
- Appointed Patrick Welch to Town Planner Search Committee (4-0-0)
- Approved amended job descriptions for Town Planner and Assistant Town Accountant (4-0-0)
- Terminated parking license agreement with Congregational Church effective April 1, 2023 (4-0-0)
- Continued Courtyard Marriott lodging permit hearing to January 24, 2023 (4-0-0)
Active Transportation & Safety Committee
The Active Transportation & Safety Committee is meeting to discuss grant opportunities and transportation reports. The body will review a MassTrails grant for Otis to Park and potential bikeshare options at the T station.
- MassTrails grant design for Otis to Park
- BWALT walk-through report by Jim Robbins
- Central Mass Metro Planning MicroProjects grants for possible bikeshare at T station
- Discussion of 'An Act to Reduce Traffic Fatalities'
- Two committee member openings
The committee voted to support a MassTrails grant application for the Otis St to Park St section of the BWALT. Members also discussed pedestrian safety at the rotary following a resident report of a child being struck by a vehicle.
- Approved letter of support for MassTrails grant (7-0)
- Tabled review of 11/28 meeting minutes
- Decided to keep BWALT trail slope under 5% near CarMax to avoid boardwalk costs
- Determined bikeshare from T station is not feasible for town size
Veterans' Advisory Board
The Westborough Veterans' Advisory Board will meet on January 9, 2023, to discuss updates on the Veterans Service Officer (VSO) position, a memorial dedication in Veterans Park, and outreach from the Army Research Lab. The board will also hear reports on Hometown Heroes, a flag burning project, and Quilts of Valor, as well as social media promotion and the winter meeting schedule.
- Update on VSO position
- Memorial Dedication in Veterans Park – Update: O’Brien, Toorock
- Outreach from Army Research Lab in Natick - DEVCOM Soldier Center
- Hometown Heroes: Tepper/Horrigan
- Flag Burning Project: Toorock
The board approved the December 2022 minutes and assigned chairpersons for the Memorial Day Parade, Veterans Corner, and the newsletter. Several members volunteered for flag installation and retrieval duties. Requests regarding the K of C Hall and rotary flag displays were tabled.
- Approved Dec 12, 2022 minutes
- Appointed Al Tournas as Chairman for Memorial Day Parade and Ceremonies
- Appointed Marshall Preston as chairman for Veterans Corner
- Appointed Paul Horrigan as chairman for the Newsletter
- Tabled request to book K of C Hall for Memorial and Veterans Day
- Tabled request to place flag display on the rotary
Council on Aging Board
The Board approved the Secretary's minutes from December 12, 2022. Members discussed the inability to order a replacement bus despite $206,000 in available funds and planned to contact town officials. No other formal votes were recorded.
- Approved Secretary’s minutes from December 12, 2022 (unanimous)
Waste Management Exploratory Committee
The committee will determine the criteria for evaluating future waste management options and finalize questions for a meeting with Waste Connections. Members will also discuss the timing of a new survey and the potential for short-term satellite food composting locations.
- Finalization of minutes from November 17 and December 15, 2022
- Preparation of questions for Waste Connections meeting
- Establishment of evaluation criteria for waste management options
- Discussion of satellite food composting locations
- Discussion of timing for a new survey
The Waste Management Exploratory Committee approved a list of questions to be sent to a Waste Connections representative. The committee also began discussing criteria for evaluating waste management options, with further discussion tabled for the next meeting.
- Approved remote participation for Buerstatte (unanimous)
- Approved Nov 17, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0-1)
- Approved Dec 15, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved questions for Waste Connections meeting (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Westborough Planning Board meets January 3, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. in the Great Hall of the Forbes Building. They will continue a public hearing and decision on Special Permit #2022-3 for Stone Inc. at 80 Turnpike Rd, review a preliminary subdivision plan for 48 Flanders Rd, discuss the Housing Choice Act, and form a search committee for the Town Planner position.
- Continuation of Public Hearing and Decision for Special Permit #2022-3, Stone Inc. at 80 Turnpike Rd
- Preliminary Subdivision Plan for 48 Flanders Rd (Waterman Design)
- Discussion on Housing Choice Act
- Formation of Search Committee for Town Planner Position and discussion of job description
- Approve meeting minutes
The Planning Board approved a special permit for Stone Inc at 80 Turnpike Road and adopted a new job description for the Town Planner position. The board also established a search committee to evaluate candidates for the Town Planner role.
- Approved minutes from 12/6/22 and 12/20/22 meetings (4-0)
- Approved Special Permit #2022-3 for Stone Inc at 80 Turnpike Rd (4-0)
- Continued discussion of Preliminary Subdivision Plan for 48 Flanders Rd to January 17, 2023 (4-0)
- Approved updated Town Planner job description (4-0)
- Established Town Planner Search Committee consisting of 7 members (4-0)