Charlton public meetings in 2025

Memorial Day Committee

The Memorial Day Committee has scheduled a meeting for December 29, 2025, to discuss agenda items. The meeting is set to take place at the Charlton Town Hall.

• Memorial Day Committee meeting scheduled for Dec 29, 2025
• Meeting location: Charlton Town Hall
• Agenda items to be discussed

Cemetery Commission

The Charlton Cemetery Commission will meet to approve minutes, review burial counts, and examine prior month expenses. The body will also discuss the FY2027 budget and progress on a newly hired employee.

• Review and approval of FY2027 budget
• Review of prior months expenses
• Monthly burial count
• Update on newly hired employee
• Meeting location: Westridge Cemetery garage

The commission approved the minutes from the November 24, 2025 meeting. A motion was passed to authorize the FY2027 budget for submission as prepared by Jim. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved November 24, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Willis, second by Donna)
• Authorized FY2027 budget submission (motion by Willis, second by Donna)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Willis, second by Donna)

DCRSD- School Committee

The Policy Review Subcommittee of the Dudley‑Charlton Regional School District will meet on Dec 18, 2025. The agenda includes approval of prior minutes, feedback from parent advisory councils and related groups, and discussion of several policy items such as graduation requirements, school food meal modifications, middle‑school pathway exploration, and student search procedures. The committee will also consider an update to the School Committee Handbook and plan future items like the Policy Reconciliation Project and job description review. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Graduation Requirements (new business)
• School Food and Nutrition — Meal Modification (old business)
• Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy (old business)
• Student Searches — e.g., Smart phones (old business)
• Update – School Committee Handbook (old business)

DCRSD- School Committee

The DCRSD Curriculum Subcommittee will meet on Dec. 18 to review the November 7 minutes and consider assessment and accountability data. The committee will discuss curriculum, instruction, and assessment data for Shepherd Hill Regional High School. No formal actions are listed beyond discussion.

• Review of minutes from Friday, November 7, 2025
• Old Business – Assessment and Accountability Data
• New Business – Discussion on Shepherd Hill Regional High School curriculum, instruction, and assessment data

Charlton Housing Authority

The Charlton Housing Authority will meet to review reports from the Treasurer and Executive Director. The board is scheduled to discuss the budget for Fiscal Year 2026.

• FY 2026 Budget

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings for several Notices of Intent and one Request for Determination of Applicability. The body will review projects involving residential construction, septic repairs, and utility work near wetlands and resource areas.

• Notice of Intent for a new home, septic system, and driveway at 140 Sandersdale Road
• Notice of Intent for septic system repair at 3 Cranberry Meadow Shore Road
• Notice of Intent for pool and landscaping improvements at 61 T Hall Road
• Notice of Intent for transmission line refurbishment on Carpenter Hill Road
• Request for Determination of Applicability for a shed and tree removal at 35 Old Oxford Road

Finance Committee

The Charlton Finance Committee will approve the minutes from its last meeting and review the meeting schedule. It will receive an update on the town’s health insurance program and discuss excess revenue capacity, including how it is determined and incorporated into long‑term strategy. The committee will also hear updates from the Finance Director and Town Administrator, and consider any other business that may arise.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Update to health insurance program
• Discussion of excess revenue capacity and its long‑term strategy implications
• Update from Finance Director and Town Administrator
• Other business (to be determined)

Board of Health

The Charlton Board of Health will review FY26 project updates, including possible votes on a Communications SOP and a Service Request SOP. It will also examine the budget for a new Public Health Specialist position. Additional items include a workplan review, discussion of the FY25 FPHS report, and updates on shared regional staff.

• Possible vote on FY26 Communications Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
• Possible vote on FY26 Service Request SOP
• Budget review for Public Health Specialist position
• Workplan review
• Discussion of FY25 FPHS report

The Board of Health approved the minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting. They also approved the finalized Internal Communications and Service Request SOPs prepared by Ethan Melad. A discussion was held about hiring a Public Health Specialist, but no decision was made. The meeting adjourned at 10:29 am.

• Approved November 19, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved Internal Communications and Service Request SOPs (motion passed)

Cultural Council

The Charlton Cultural Council will meet remotely via Zoom on December 11, 2025. The agenda lists three pending items: the grant cycle, council program planning, and outstanding action items. These topics are slated for discussion at the meeting.

• Grant Cycle
• Council Program Planning
• Action Items

The Charlton Cultural Council approved the minutes from the December 4 and December 11 meetings with a unanimous vote. No other items were formally approved, denied, or tabled; grant approvals and program plans were discussed but no vote results were recorded. The Zoom platform change was noted as completed, and other action items remain pending.

• Approved meeting minutes from 12/4 and 12/11 (unanimous)
• Zoom platform change completed (noted as done)

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley-Charlton Regional School Committee will meet to receive reports on the FY26 budget and FY25 close out. The committee will consider a request for the disposal of school property and review financial reports from the Southern Worcester County Education Collaborative.

• Approval request for disposal of school property
• FY26 Budget Year to Date Report
• FY25 Fiscal Year Close Out Update
• FY27 Budget Creation Impact Memo
• SWCEC Financial Audit and FY25 Annual Report

Fire Substation Committee

The Charlton Fire Substation Building Committee will meet on Dec 10, 2025 at 6:00 pm in Meeting Room 1, 37 Main Street, and via Zoom. The agenda includes routine items such as calling the meeting to order, approving minutes, and providing a budget update. The committee will consider and vote on budget transfers, change order requests, and a specific contractor payment request identified as Pay Requisition #8. The meeting will also include a project schedule update and any other business that may arise.

• Budget transfers – vote
• Change order requests – vote
• Contractor payment request #8 (Pay Requisition #8) – vote
• Project schedule update – discussion
• Approval of minutes – formal approval

The Fire Substation Building Committee approved the meeting minutes from November 12, 2025. It approved the inclusion of a zero‑dollar Change Proposal #32 in Change Order 8. The committee also approved Pay Rec 8 for up to $879,245.58, contingent on final review. Change Proposal #33 was postponed for further review at the next meeting.

• Approved November 12 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved inclusion of zero‑dollar Change Proposal #32 in Change Order 8 (unanimous)
• Approved contractor payment request Pay Rec 8 up to $879,245.58, contingent on final review (unanimous)
• Postponed Change Proposal #33 pending further review

Library Trustees

The Charlton Public Library Board of Trustees will review and discuss several items, including a six‑month evaluation of the library director and the FY 2027 budget. Trustees will also consider candidates for the CPLC Trust Fund and review the trustee calendar. The meeting includes reports on the FY 2026 budget and director updates.

• Approval of minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting
• Six‑month evaluation of the library director
• Consideration of the FY 2027 library budget
• Selection of candidates for the CPLC Trust Fund
• Review of the trustee calendar

The trustees approved the FY 27 budget with no major increases. They also appointed Judy Hoffstein to the CPLC Trust Fund unanimously. The meeting set the next regular session for January 15, 2026 and kept the trustee calendar unchanged.

• Approved FY 27 budget (unanimous)
• Appointed Judy Hoffstein to CPLC Trust Fund (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 14, 2025 (board motion)
• Set next regular meeting for Jan 15, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
• Kept trustee calendar as is
• Agreed to maintain library position on article (no vote recorded)
• Approved adjournment (board motion)

Select Board

The Charlton Select Board will consider several actions, including setting a date for a Special Town Meeting based on a citizens petition, renewing the 2026 Select Board licenses, and awarding a bid for heating oil. Additional items include declaring surplus equipment for the cemetery and police department, approving an opioid fund spending plan, and discussing policy amendments such as overnight parking and environmentally preferable products. The board will also appoint a cemetery/facilities laborer and receive reports from student representatives and the town administrator.

• Set date for Special Town Meeting – Citizens Petition
• 2026 Select Board License Renewals
• #2 Heating Oil – Bid Award
• Declare equipment/vehicle as surplus for Cemetery and Police Department
• Opioid Fund Spending Plan

The Select Board approved several items, including the November 18, 2025 minutes (with one abstention) and the appointment of Jacob Adams as Cemetery/Facilities Laborer. It set the date for a special town meeting on January 12, 2026 to consider a firearms‑area exemption, approved 2026 license renewals, awarded the heating‑oil contract, declared surplus equipment, adopted the opioid‑fund spending plan, and approved the FY2027 Town Meeting calendar.

• Approved November 18, 2025 minutes (motion passed, Ms. Zurawski abstaining)
• Appointed Jacob Adams as Cemetery/Facilities Laborer (unanimous)
• Set special town meeting for Jan 12 2026, 7:00 pm at Charlton Middle School (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Select Board license renewals (unanimous)
• Awarded FY2026 #2 heating oil contract to Fraticelli Oil & Propane (unanimous)
• Declared Police Dept Ford Transit van and Cemetery John Deere tractor surplus (unanimous)
• Adopted Opioid Fund spending plan ($32,377.57) (unanimous)
• Approved Town Meeting calendar for FY2027 (unanimous)

Tri-Epic Regional

The Tri-Epic Regional Emergency Planning Committee will meet in Southbridge to review financial reports, exercise outcomes, and winter storm preparedness. The agenda includes updates on grant funding, CERT programs, and the election of board positions.

• Review of financial reports for TRI-EPIC/CERT accounts and website budget
• Presentation on HMEP exercise review for October 25
• Discussion on major winter storm preparedness
• Voting on E-Board positions
• Updates on HMEP 2025 Grant and CERT initiatives

The committee voted unanimously to accept the Town of Webster back into TRI-EPIC. Minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting were approved without objection. The website budget was reallocated to operational costs by unanimous vote. The executive board was retained for a two‑year term, also by unanimous consent.

• Accepted Town of Webster back into TRI-EPIC (unanimous vote)
• Approved October 14, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous vote)
• Reallocated website budget to operational costs (unanimous vote)
• Retained current executive board for two‑year term (unanimous vote)
• Notified that Town of Brimfield withdrew from TRI-EPIC
• Distributed 2026 membership invoices to present towns

Board of Health

The Charlton Board of Health will review proposed changes to its Environmentally Preferred Products agreement. It will discuss ongoing issues at the Flint Road landfill and hear department‑head reports on PFAS contamination. The meeting will also set the date for the next Board of Health session.

• Review changes to Environmentally Preferred Products agreement
• Discussion of Flint Road landfill (old business)
• Department head reports on PFAS
• Determine date of next Board of Health meeting

The Board of Health approved the amended October 28, 2025 meeting minutes and adopted the Environmentally Preferred Products agreement, labeling Charlton a “Green Community.” The meeting was then adjourned. No other actions were taken.

• Approved October 28, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved Environmentally Preferred Products policy (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Recreation Commission

The Charlton Recreation Commission will meet via Zoom to approve meeting minutes, review the FY27 proposed budget, and schedule future meetings for leagues and long-term planning.

• Approval of October and November 2025 meeting minutes
• Review and approval of FY27 Department Request/Proposed Budget
• Schedule all Leagues meeting for February 2026
• Schedule in-person meeting for 5/10/15 year plans
• Review and approval of the Annual Report

Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee

The Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee will meet to discuss several ongoing initiatives. Topics include a recap of the No. Brookfield HHW day, an update on the potted floral island, enrollment of the Green Team in Charlton schools, and a financial update on the Recycling Dividends Program. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Recap of No. Brookfield HHW day
• Potted floral island update
• Green Team enrollment in Charlton schools
• Recycling Dividends Program money update

The committee voted to accept the December 8, 2025 minutes; the motion was made by Catherine Jolicoeur, seconded by Meghan Hammond, and approved by all members present. The meeting also noted participation in North Brookfield’s Hazardous Household Waste Day, plans to sell rain barrels at the Earth Day Festival, and a report of illegally dumped tires near a resident’s property.

• Accepted meeting minutes (unanimous approval)

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley‑Charlton Regional School District Budget & Finance Subcommittee will approve the minutes from September 26, 2025 and allow brief public comments. The Director of Finance will provide updates on several financial topics, including proposed Chapter 70 funding, proposed regional transportation funding, enrollment projections, and cost projections for healthcare, utilities, transportation, and contracts. The meeting will also continue discussion of a possible “Technology Efficiency Fund” and outline the timeline for creating the district’s budget.

• Approval of minutes from 9‑26‑25
• Review of proposed Chapter 70 funding by House, Senate, and Governor
• Review of proposed regional transportation funding by House, Senate, and Governor
• Continued discussion on a possible “Technology Efficiency Fund”
• Presentation of FY27 healthcare, utility, transportation, and contractual cost projections

DCRSD- School Committee

The Capital Outlay and Safety Subcommittee will review facility updates across district schools and discuss the timeline for FY27 capital budget requests. The meeting includes a review of specific maintenance and safety projects.

• CMS water fountain/refill stations
• CES fire alarm panel multi-lingual audio notifications
• HES driveway lights
• Lab and STEM classroom safety requirements for first-aid kits and eye wash stations
• FY27 Capital Request Budget creation timeline

Cultural Council

The Charlton Cultural Council meeting on December 4, 2025 will consider items related to its grant cycle, program planning, and pending action items. The discussion will guide upcoming cultural grants and council initiatives.

• Grant Cycle
• Council Program Planning
• Action Items

The Cultural Council approved the meeting minutes for December 4, 2025. The action item to add Lisa and Kenny to the town and MCC websites was completed. No other substantive decisions, such as grant allocations or program plans, were recorded as approved or voted on at this meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Added Lisa and Kenny to town site and MCC site (completed)

Planning Board

The Charlton Planning Board will review several decommissioning bond proposals for energy storage sites, including a Nextera Energy project on North Sturbridge Road and multiple ZP Battery Development sites on Griffin Road and Route 169. The board will hold public hearings on a multifamily development at 35 N. Main Street and a subdivision plan modification at Ponnakin Hill. A field change request for Boston Outdoor Living at 220 and 218 Sturbridge Road will be discussed, and a non‑required approval for Baker‑Partridge Hill Road will be recorded. The meeting also includes master plan discussion, minutes, and other business updates.

• Decommissioning Bond – Nextera Energy, 261 North Sturbridge Road (14-B-7 & 11.1)
• Public Hearing – GM Properties, LLC: The Villages Multi‑Family Units, 35 N. Main Street (35-C-9) Second Submittal
• Public Hearing – Fabiola Caesar Estiverne: Ponnakin Hill Subdivision Plan Modification (21-A-5)
• Decommissioning Bond – ZP Battery Development Co., LLC for Lot F and Lot G on Griffin Road (Battery Energy Storage System, 27-C-9 & 27-C-9.1)
• Field Change Request – Comerford, LLC: Boston Outdoor Living at 220 & 218 Sturbridge Road (Route 20) (31-C-6)

Conservation Commission

The Charlton Conservation Commission will consider a schedule of public hearings for multiple Notice of Intent applications that involve construction near wetlands, lakes, and riverfront areas. The agenda also includes certificates of compliance for two sites on Stevens Park Road and a discussion of the town‑owned land hunting policy. Items listed are subject to change at the Chair's discretion.

• NOI DEP #128-1938 – 35 North Main St: 40 multi‑family housing units in a wetland buffer zone
• NOI DEP #128-1971 – 80 Richardson Corner Rd: extension and widening of a farmer’s wall within 15 ft of a vegetated wetland
• NOI DEP #128-1989 – 78 Glen Echo Shore Rd: retaining wall within 100 ft of Glen Echo Lake
• Certificate of Compliance DEP #128-1190 – 78 Stevens Park Rd
• Discussion of Hunting Policy on Town‑Owned Land

The Conservation Commission approved the minutes from August and September 2025. It continued two public hearings to January 14, 2026, and closed several hearings, issuing Orders of Conditions for multiple development projects. The commission also issued a Negative Determination with conditions, amended two existing Orders of Conditions, and granted complete Certificates of Compliance for two projects on Stevens Park Road.

• Approved minutes from August 13 and September 10, 2025 (passed)
• Continued hearing for 35 North Main St (NOI #128-1938) to Jan 14, 2026 (passed)
• Continued hearing for 80 Richardson Corner Rd (NOI #128-1971) to Jan 14, 2026 (passed)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for 78 Glen Echo Shore Rd (NOI #128-1989) (passed)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for 211 Sunset Drive (NOI #128-1990) (passed)
• Issued Negative Determination with conditions for 96 Old Spencer Rd (RDA) (passed)
• Amended Order of Conditions for 0 North Main St (DEP #128-1980) (passed)
• Issued Complete Certificates of Compliance for 78 Stevens Park Road (DEP #128-1190 and #128-1439) (passed)

Water/Sewer Commission

The Water & Sewer Commission will review consent agenda items, including minutes and warrants. It will hear Veolia's monthly operating report and consider new business items such as the FY 2026‑2027 budget, a hydraulic analysis of the Blue Tank, and wastewater capital improvements. The commission will also receive updates on old projects, including Route 20/Richardson Corner Rd roadway improvements and project updates from Vincent Masterson.

• Review FY 2026‑2027 water & sewer budget (due late December)
• Discuss hydraulic analysis and Blue Tank with BETA, Southbridge & McClure Engineering
• Consider wastewater capital improvements
• Receive Veolia monthly operating report 2025
• Review Route 20/Richardson Corner Rd roadway improvement plans (McClure Engineering)

The Charlton Water & Sewer Commission approved a capital improvement project estimated at $14,000,000, including a new treatment plant and pump station upgrades. The commission also approved hiring a consulting engineer to oversee the project, forwarding the budget to the Finance Department for financing advice, and pursuing an RFP for future contract operations. Additionally, the commission approved warrants totaling $133,173.78.

• Approved $14,000,000 capital improvement project (unanimous)
• Approved hiring a consulting engineer to act as the commission’s agent (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding the estimated capital budget to the Finance Department (unanimous)
• Approved warrants in the amount of $133,173.78 (unanimous)
• Approved pursuit of an RFP for contract operations for the next term (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Charlton Council on Aging will hold its regular meeting on Dec. 3, 2025. The agenda includes approval of minutes, a treasurer’s report with invoices, and a director’s report. Members will discuss plans for a New Year’s Eve party and solicit wishes for the 2026 activity calendar. The meeting will adjourn after any other business.

• Approval of minutes
• Treasurer report and copy of invoices
• Discussion of food for New Year’s Eve party
• Collection of wishes for 2026 activities calendar
• COA Director’s report

The Charlton Council on Aging unanimously approved several motions, including authorizing the creation of a Friends of Charlton Senior Center group and allowing Michelle to present next year’s budget with a COLA adjustment. The board also approved a $25 annual fee for newsletter mailings and accepted the Treasurer’s report. Minutes from the November 5 meeting were approved, and the board noted an open board position due to a resignation.

• Approved go‑ahead for Friends of Charlton Senior Center group (unanimous)
• Approved motion to allow Michelle to present next year budget with COLA adjustment (unanimous)
• Approved $25 annual fee for senior center newsletter mailings (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s report of $78,280.79 donations and $17,275.36 grant expense (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 5 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved motion to order new sign‑in tags for the senior center (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Sgt. Steve Madelle as police liaison (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Capt. Jonathan Bousquet as fire department liaison (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Charlton Historical Commission will review guidelines for the town website, updates to postcard printing, and plans for moving and storing documents. It will also consider a request for additional meeting space and storage. The agenda includes routine review of minutes and other old business items.

• Guidelines for town website
• Postcards updates and printing plan
• Macris/address planning
• Plan to move boxes of documents
• Request for meeting space/additional storage

Board of Health

The Charlton Board of Health will accept the minutes from its October 28, 2025 meeting. It will review proposed changes to the Environmentally Preferred Products agreement. The board will also discuss the Flint Road Landfill and receive Department Head reports on PFAS. Finally, it will set the date for the next meeting before adjourning.

• Review changes to Environmentally Preferred Products agreement
• Discussion of Flint Road Landfill
• Department Head reports on PFAS
• Determine date of next Board of Health meeting

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will accept minutes from the October 27, 2025 meeting and sign any required deeds. They will review the monthly burial count and prior month expenses. The agenda includes updates on fall cleanup, continued discussion of a green burial site in Northside Cemetery, and a discussion of the FY2027 budget. They will also consider interview results for a vacant Cem/Facilities laborer position before an open forum and meeting adjournment.

• Motion to accept minutes from 10/27/2025 meeting
• Signing of deeds or other documentation as required
• Review of prior month's expenses
• Continued discussion on green burial site in Northside Cemetery
• Discussion of upcoming FY2027 budget

The commission approved the October 27, 2025 meeting minutes. They signed documentation to place a 2003 John Deere garden tractor on the surplus equipment list for sale, with proceeds returning to Perpetual Care. The vacancy for a Cemetery/Facilities laborer was filled by Jacob Adams, who accepted the position starting December 1, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved October 27, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Willis, seconded by Donna)
• Authorized sale of 2003 John Deere JDX-595 diesel garden tractor; all members signed
• Hired Jacob Adams as Cemetery/Facilities laborer; position accepted, start Dec 1 2025
• Motion to adjourn passed (moved by Willis, seconded by Donna)

Activities Council

The Charlton Activities Council will review minutes from the prior meeting. It will discuss follow‑up from the 2025 Trunk‑or‑Treat event and consider a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with CMMA. The council will receive facility updates on usage, storage, dumpster, picnic tables and maintenance, and will address roles, responsibilities and potential upcoming workshops or events such as ornaments and ArtLab. The meeting will end with an open forum.

• Review minutes of prior meeting
• Trunk or Treat 2025 follow-up
• CMMA MOU
• Facility updates (usage, storage, dumpster, picnic tables, maintenance)
• Potential upcoming workshops/events (ornaments, ArtLab)

The council approved the minutes from the 10/31/25 meeting. A motion to pay K. Fengler for housekeeping and related duties was seconded and approved unanimously. The board assigned RM to obtain a lock and keys for the dumpster area and to arrange winterization of the Lower Barn plumbing. Additional facility tasks, including moving picnic tables indoors and discussing HVAC timer controls, were also assigned.

• Approved the 10/31/25 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved payment to K. Fengler for housekeeping duties (unanimous)
• Assigned RM to obtain lock and keys for the dumpster area
• Scheduled plumber to turn off and winterize Lower Barn plumbing on 11/25/25
• Directed KF to coordinate moving picnic tables into the Lower Barn via email
• Tasked RM to discuss HVAC control and possible timer installation with TV Charlton

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will meet to discuss operational updates. The agenda includes reports on customer satisfaction and facility renovations.

• Demand Response Customer Satisfaction Survey presentation
• VIP Task Force Update
• Lobby Renovation Update
• Technology Update

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding multi-family units at 35 N. Main Street and a subdivision plan modification at Ponnakin Hill. The board will also discuss the Master Plan and Decommissioning Plan.

• Public Hearing: GM Properties, LLC multi-family units at 35 N. Main Street
• Public Hearing: Fabiola Caesar Estiverne Ponnakin Hill Definitive Subdivision Plan Modification
• Decommissioning Bond for Nextera Energy at 261 North Sturbridge Road
• Bond Release Request for GAIR, LLC at Jennings Road Ext.
• Review of Special Permit submittal requirements for Reduced Frontage Lots

Housing Production Plan Steering Committee

The Housing Production Plan Steering Committee will meet to discuss community outreach efforts and future steps. The agenda lists these items but does not provide details on specific decisions or outcomes.

• Community Outreach Efforts for Plan Data
• Next Steps for Committee
• Other Business – Unknown at time of posting

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings for multiple Notices of Intent regarding construction and landscaping near wetlands and lakes. The body will also discuss hunting policy on town-owned land and a committee member update for Fay Mountain Farm.

• Notice of Intent for 40 multi-family housing units at 35 North Main Street
• Notice of Intent for single-family homes at 79 Baker Pond Road, Lot 1-2 N Sullivan Road, Lot 1-3 N Sullivan Road, and Lot 1-4 N Sullivan Road
• Notice of Intent for retaining walls and landscaping at 78 Glen Echo Shore Road and 211 Sunset Drive
• Request for Determination of Applicability for a home addition at 96 Old Spencer Road
• Discussion on Hunting Policy on Town-Owned Land

Board of Health

The Board of Health is meeting to review FY26 project updates and shared staff roles. The body may vote on standard operating procedures for communications and service requests.

• Possible vote on Communications SOP
• Possible vote on Service request SOP
• Public Health Specialist hiring update
• Regional Inspector update
• Regional Community Health Coordinator update

The Board of Health approved the minutes from the September 4 and October 9, 2025 meetings. The motion was made by Jim and seconded by Lisa. Cheryl abstained, and the motion passed. No other actions were decided.

• Approved September & October 2025 minutes (motion passed, Cheryl abstained)

Finance Committee

The Charlton Finance Committee will meet on November 19, 2025 at the Senior Center in Town Hall. The committee will approve the minutes from the previous meeting, review the meeting schedule, and receive updates on the town’s health insurance and regional 911 programs. It will also consider budget adjustments following the STM and discuss the New Growth number. Additional updates will be provided by the Finance Director and Town Administrator, and other business may be addressed.

• Approve minutes from the previous Finance Committee meeting
• Review the Finance Committee meeting schedule
• Update to the town’s health insurance program
• Update to the regional 911 program
• Consider budget adjustments after the STM

The committee approved the October 20, 2025 Finance Committee minutes by unanimous voice vote. The meeting then proceeded with updates on growth numbers, health‑insurance trust, regional 911 program, budget overlays, and town projects. No other motions were voted on. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved October 20, 2025 Finance Committee minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council is meeting to address pending items. The discussion will focus on the grant cycle, council program planning, and other action items.

• Grant cycle
• Council program planning
• Action items

The council members voted to approve the November 19, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. No other substantive decisions, allocations, or program approvals were recorded in this meeting.

• Approved November 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to vote on residential solar and review tax classifications. The board will also process Chapter land requests and enter executive session to review abatement and exemption applications.

• Residential Solar Vote
• Chapter land requests for ROFR and rollback
• Tax classification review
• Review of abatement or exemption applications
• Assessor Certification

Select Board

The Charlton Select Board will vote on awarding the Winter Washed Sand bid and on a request from the Charlton Permanent Fire Fighters (IAFF Local 4023) for a boot‑drive program. The board will also discuss the scope of work for a Route 20 economic corridor study prepared by Westmass and consider an overnight parking policy. Additional items include scheduled pole hearings and requests to remove two properties from Chapter 61/61A.

• Award of Winter Washed Sand contract
• Request for boot‑drive program by Charlton Permanent Fire Fighters, IAFF Local 4023
• Westmass scope of work for Route 20 Economic Corridor study
• Discussion of overnight parking policy
• Pole hearings – Hill Road and Dresser Hill Road

The board appointed a non‑voting student representative and adopted a single tax rate while taking no votes on three exemptions. It approved two utility pole installations, removal of two parcels from Chapter 61A, a fire‑fighters boot‑drive event, a winter sand bid, and a $30,000 Westmass study for the Route 20 economic corridor. A motion to implement an overnight parking policy and related bylaw change also passed, with one board member opposed.

• Appointed Danika Marcotte as non‑voting student representative (unanimous)
• Adopted a single tax rate (unanimous) and took no votes on Small Commercial, Residential exemptions and Open Space discount (unanimous)
• Approved pole installation at Hill Road & #10 Schoolhouse Road (unanimous)
• Approved pole installation at Dresser Hill Road (unanimous)
• Approved removal of 7.11 acres on N. Sullivan Rd. from Chapter 61A (no first‑refusal vote, unanimous)
• Approved removal of 6.55 acres on Sampson Rd. from Chapter 61A (no first‑refusal vote, unanimous)
• Approved Charlton Permanent Fire Fighters “Boot Drive” event (unanimous)
• Awarded Winter Washed Sand bid to Rawson Materials at $23.50 per ton (unanimous)

DCRSD- School Committee

The CMS School Council will meet to discuss suggestions for improving the school handbook. The body will also review updates on parent volunteer opportunities and the Let Grow program.

• Review of school handbook for areas of improvement
• Discussion of parent volunteer opportunities for the school store and lunches
• Feedback on the November 10 Let Grow kick off

Recreation Commission

The Charlton Recreation Commission will discuss updates on field use, liability, and equipment storage, including a review of basketball/skateboard park pavement repairs. It will consider finance items such as wrapping existing playground donor signs and hiring White’s Tree Service for tree trimming on the Maynard Field walking trail. Additional agenda items include safety checks, scheduling a planning workshop in January, and ongoing field‑use calendar matters.

• Discussion of basketball/skateboard park pavement repairs
• Review of contract with Diversified Signs to laminate existing playground donor sign
• Review of contract with White’s Tree Service for tree trimming on Maynard Field walking trail
• Set a January date for a 5/10/15‑year planning workshop
• Ongoing field‑use calendar and Gaga ball field selection

The Recreation Commission approved the minutes of the August 18, 2025 meeting (2‑0). It approved a $600 invoice to White’s Tree Service for emergency tree trimming and a $500 invoice to Diversified Design LLC for a donor sign replacement (both 3‑0). The meeting was adjourned at 8:11 p.m. (3‑0). No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved August 18, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Approved $600 invoice to White’s Tree Service for emergency tree trimming (3-0)
• Approved $500 invoice to Diversified Design LLC for donor sign replacement (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:11 p.m. (3-0)

Fay Mountain Farm Committee

The Fay Mountain Farm Committee will meet on November 13, 2025 at 37 Main Street, Charlton. Members will consider approval of minutes and receive information about a previous grant and an APR. The agenda includes a review of equipment values and negotiations, a discussion of a site walk, and a proposal for a drainage inlet pipe connecting Cooks Pond to Snows Pond.

• Approval of minutes
• Information about previous grant
• List of equipment – value and negotiation
• Discussion about the site walk
• Drainage inlet pipe from Cooks Pond to Snows Pond

Board of Health

The Charlton Board of Health will review FY26 project updates, including possible votes on a communications standard‑operating procedure and a service‑request SOP. It will also receive an update on the hiring of a Public Health Specialist and discuss shared staff positions for a regional inspector and a regional community health coordinator. Member communities of the Charlton Coalition for Public Health will have a discussion, and any other business may be raised.

• Possible vote on FY26 Communications SOP
• Possible vote on FY26 Service Request SOP
• Update on hiring of a Public Health Specialist
• Shared staff updates: Regional Inspector and Regional Community Health Coordinator
• Discussion by CCPH member communities

Cultural Council

The Charlton Cultural Council will meet remotely via Zoom on November 13, 2025. The agenda lists three pending items: a grant cycle review, planning for council programs, and other action items. No specific decisions or votes are detailed in the agenda.

• Grant Cycle
• Council Program Planning
• Action Items

The Cultural Council voted to approve the November 13, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. No other substantive decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley-Charlton Regional School Committee will meet to approve minutes, field trips, and a donation request, and to discuss financial updates and policy changes.

• Approval of October 8, 2025 minutes
• Out of state field trips to Vernon, CT; Cranston, RI; Salem, NH; East Cranston, RI; and Warwick, RI
• Donation acceptance request from The Ruda Family
• New policies for Parent Advisory Councils and visitor access
• Middle School Pathways Exploration policy

Fire Substation Committee

The committee will approve minutes, receive a budget update and vote on proposed budget transfers, and provide a project schedule update. It will deliberate and vote on Change Order #6, Change Order #7, and CHA & Context contract amendments. The committee will also vote on Contractor Payment Request Pay Requisition #7. Other business is listed as unknown at the time of posting.

• Vote on budget transfers
• Deliberation & vote on Change Order #6
• Deliberation & vote on Change Order #7
• Deliberation & vote on CHA & Context contract amendments
• Vote on Pay Requisition #7

The Fire Substation Building Committee approved the October 8 minutes and unanimously adopted Change Order #6 for $28,668.64 and Change Order #7 for $90,576.90. It also amended the CHA contract by $65,614.00 and the Context contract by $78,900.00, and conditionally approved Pay Request 7 up to $786,767.88 pending final review.

• Approved October 8 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #6 – $28,668.64 (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #7 – $90,576.90 (unanimous)
• Amended CHA contract – $65,614.00 (unanimous)
• Amended Context contract – $78,900.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Pay Request 7 up to $786,767.88, contingent on final review (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to sell patio bricks (discussion noted, no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee

The committee will meet to discuss the removal of potted floral displays for the winter season. Members will also review a November 15th HHWD event in No. Brookfield and Green Team enrollment in schools.

• Removal of potted floral displays for winter
• HHWD event in No. Brookfield on November 15th
• Green Team enrollment in schools

The Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee accepted the previous meeting minutes unanimously. It decided that Charlton will join North Brookfield’s Hazardous Household Waste Day and will explore using $3,000 of Board of Health funds for participation. The committee also tasked Cathy with creating a new $75 rain‑barrel sign and posting related information on its Facebook pages. Members were informed that the $7,800 RDP grant is likely delayed until the new year.

• Accepted minutes (unanimous)
• Charlton will join North Brookfield Hazardous Household Waste Day
• Deb will inquire about using $3,000 Board of Health money for waste day
• Cathy will make and deliver a new $75 rain‑barrel sign
• Household Hazardous Waste Day info will be posted on Keep Charlton Beautiful and Earth Day Facebook pages
• Noted $7,800 RDP funding likely delayed until next year

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley‑Charlton Regional School District Policy Review Subcommittee will meet to consider several policy items. New business includes discussion of student searches, such as smart phone searches, and the selection, adoption, and reconsideration of library and media materials. The committee will also review updates to parent advisory councils, relations with parent/booster organizations, visitor policies, building access, and school food and nutrition meal modifications. The meeting will finish with an update to the School Committee Handbook and set the date for the next meeting.

• Student Searches – e.g., Smart phones
• Library/Media Materials Selection, Adoption, and Reconsideration
• Parent Advisory Councils
• Relations with Parent/Booster Organizations
• School Food and Nutrition – Meal Modification

DCRSD- School Committee

The DCRSD Curriculum Subcommittee will meet on November 7, 2025. The committee will review the minutes from its October 16, 2025 meeting. It will then discuss assessment and accountability data. The meeting will be held via Google Meet.

• Review of minutes from October 16, 2025
• Discussion of assessment and accountability data

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council will meet via Zoom to address pending items. The discussion will focus on the grant cycle and program planning.

• Grant cycle
• Council program planning

The Charlton Cultural Council approved the November 6, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. The council reviewed pending items such as the 2026 grant allocation of $9,245 and program planning, but no formal votes on those items were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a continued public hearing regarding a second submittal for multi-family units at 35 N. Main Street. The board will also hold discussions on the Master Plan and the Decommissioning Plan.

• Public Hearing: GM Properties, LLC-The Villages Multi-Family Units at 35 N. Main Street (35-C-9)
• Master Plan Discussion
• Decommissioning Plan Discussion

Water/Sewer Commission

The Charlton Water & Sewer Commission will hold a public forum, approve consent agenda items (minutes, warrants, senior abatements), and hear Veolia's monthly operating report. It will also discuss old business items, including McClure Engineering's roadway improvement plans for Route 20/Richardson Corner Rd, Vincent Masterson's project updates, and a Chapter 61A notice of intent to sell 29 Sampson Road.

• Consent agenda approvals: October 1 minutes, warrants, senior abatements
• Veolia monthly operating report for 2025
• McClure Engineering – roadway improvements on Route 20/Richardson Corner Rd
• Vincent Masterson – monthly and project updates
• Chapter 61A notice of intent to sell 29 Sampson Road (Estate of Forrest A. McKinstry)

The Water/Sewer Commission accepted the October 2025 minutes, approved warrants totaling $26,607.79, and accepted senior abatements of $914.93. Commissioners authorized the purchase of a double door for $6,014 and recommended no first‑refusal action for 29 Sampson Rd. A motion to fund concrete work for $6,250 was rejected. The meeting was adjourned.

• Accepted October 2025 minutes (aye votes from Gagner, Grotton, R. Coleman, T. Coleman)
• Approved warrants $26,607.79 (aye votes from Gagner, Grotton, R. Coleman, T. Coleman)
• Accepted senior abatements $914.93 (aye votes from Gagner, Grotton, R. Coleman, T. Coleman)
• Authorized purchase of double door for $6,014 (aye votes from Gagner, T. Coleman, R. Coleman, Grotton)
• Rejected funding for concrete work $6,250 (nay votes from Gagner, Grotton, T. Coleman, R. Coleman)
• Recommended no first‑refusal for 29 Sampson Rd (aye votes from Gagner, Grotton, T. Coleman, R. Coleman)
• Adjourned meeting (aye votes from Gagner, Grotton, R. Coleman, T. Coleman)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to review treasurer reports and discuss old business regarding Town Meeting and the COA Board's role. The body will also address new business including a grant installment and local food drives.

• EAOI Grant Installment
• Food Drive
• Library Giving Tree
• Tri Valley Kitchen Transition update
• Charlton Furniture Tour Request update

Select Board

The Charlton Select Board will open with a call to order before entering an executive session. In that session, members will discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining or litigation related to the Police Chief contract, citing M.G.L. c.30A, Sec. 21(a), #3. Other business items are not listed at the time of posting. The meeting will conclude with an adjournment.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy for Police Chief contract (M.G.L. c.30A, Sec. 21(a), #3)
• Other Business – items not specified at time of posting

Bandshell Development Committee

The Bandshell Development Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and review Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for House Doctor Services.

• Review of RFPs for House Doctor Services

Historical Commission

The Charlton Historical Commission will review updates to its bylaws and website guidelines, consider postcards and updates on local historic sites, and discuss the process for designating Charlton Center as a historic district. It will also consider requests for additional meeting space and storage. The meeting includes a review of prior minutes and other old‑business items.

• Bylaw updates
• Guidelines for town website
• Postcards for historic district
• Updates on Fay Mountain Farm
• Process to make Charlton Center a historic district

The commission met on November 2, 2025, but did not have a quorum, so no motions were voted on. Members discussed updates to Fay Mountain Farm, postcard outreach, the 1977 historical district sign‑off list, and website guidelines. Action items were assigned for research, drafting guidelines, and preparing welcome materials, but no approvals or denials were recorded.

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley‑Charlton Regional School District Budget & Finance Subcommittee will receive updates on proposed Chapter 70 funding, regional transportation funding, and various cost projections for FY27. Members will discuss enrollment forecasts, school‑choice impacts, and a possible Technology Efficiency Fund. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of minutes, committee reorganization, and public comment.

• Proposed Chapter 70 funding by House, Senate, and Governor
• Proposed regional transportation funding by House, Senate, and Governor
• FY27 healthcare cost projections
• Utility cost projections
• Discussion of a possible Technology Efficiency Fund

DCRSD- School Committee

The Capital & School Safety Subcommittee will approve the October 3 minutes, reorganize its chair and vice‑chair positions, and hear reports from the Directors of Facilities and Finance & Operations. It will also discuss updates to the capital plan, the FY27 budget request timeline, and specific projects such as roof solar, SHS bleachers, the CMS basketball court, and a CMS water fountain.

• Approval of Minutes (10/3/2025)
• Committee Reorganization – Chair and Vice Chair selection
• Director of Facilities Report
• Capital request timeline for FY27 Budget
• Roof Solar (CMS, DMS, SHS) update

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to award a bid for the closure of the 54 Flint Road Landfill. The board will also discuss PFAS and review department head reports.

• Award bid for closure of 54 Flint Road Landfill
• Discussion of PFAS
• Department head reports

The Board of Health accepted the September 1, 2025 minutes. It approved the bid from A.F. Amorello & Sons Inc. to cap the 54 Flint Road landfill for $1,845,868.00. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted September 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved award of $1,845,868.00 contract to A.F. Amorello & Sons Inc. for landfill cap (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Charlton Cemetery Commission will review prior month expenses and the fall cleanup update. It will continue discussion of the proposed green burial site in Northside Cemetery and consider the resignation and replacement of a laborer position. The meeting will also cover the FY2027 budget and an annual review of cemetery service rates and fees.

• Review of prior month expenses
• Update on fall cleanup progress
• Continued discussion of a green burial site in Northside Cemetery
• Resignation of John Holbrook from the Cemetery/Facilities laborer position
• Discussion of upcoming FY2027 budget and annual cemetery service rates & fees

The commission approved the September 25, 2025 minutes after correcting a typo. A motion to keep cemetery service rates the same for the next calendar year was passed. The discussion of a green‑burial site in the Northside Cemetery was postponed to a future meeting. The Special Town Meeting capital article approving $34,000 for cemetery road paving was noted.

• Approved September 25, 2025 minutes (motion by Willis, second by Donna)
• Postponed discussion of the Northside Cemetery green‑burial site
• Approved no change to cemetery service rates for the coming year (motion by Willis, second by Donna)
• Noted $34,000 approved for paving cemetery roads via Special Town Meeting article
• Recorded resignation of laborer John Holbrook
• Reviewed over 20 laborer applications; Jim to interview eight candidates

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will meet to discuss pavement repairs for the basketball/skateboard park and the pursuit of grant assistance. The body will also address action items regarding signage, security cameras, and field use liability.

• Pavement repairs to the basketball/skateboard park
• Installation of a camera and new sign near the basketball court
• Payment of six porta potty invoices to Slims & Berthiaume Sewer Service
• Discussion of facility and field use applications and fees
• Safety check of playground and fields

The Recreation Commission approved the September 15 minutes with a scheduling adjustment. It authorized extending porta‑potty service through November and approved payment of six invoices totaling $1,320. All motions passed unanimously by the two members present.

• Approved September 15 minutes with adjustment (2-0)
• Authorized extending porta‑potty use to end of November (2-0)
• Directed Chair to speak with Laureen about highway storage facilities (2-0)
• Approved payment of six invoices to Slims & Berthiaume Sewer Service, $1,320.00 (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:58 p.m. (2-0)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority will hold an Advisory Board meeting on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at 60 Foster Street, 3rd Floor Conference Room, and via Zoom Webinar. The agenda includes the approval of minutes from the September 18, 2025 meeting and a business session for public comments.

• Approval of September 18, 2025 minutes
• Public comment period
• Administrators Report
• Hybrid meeting format (60 Foster Street & Zoom)
• Title VI Civil Rights compliance notice

Fay Mountain Farm Committee

The Fay Mountain Farm Committee will meet to review information about a previous grant and the APR. Members will examine a list of equipment, including its value and negotiation status. The committee will also discuss a recent site walk and the proposed drainage inlet pipe connecting Cooks Pond to Snows Pond.

• Information about previous grant
• Information about APR
• List of equipment – value and negotiation
• Discussion about the site walk
• Drainage inlet pipe from Cooks Pond to Snows Pond

DCRSD- School Committee

The Shepherd Hill Regional High School School Council will hold its regular meeting. Members will elect a chair and vice‑chair, review upcoming meeting dates, and receive updates from teachers, the music parents association, the booster club, and student representatives. The council will also hold a discussion on school climate and culture. The meeting is scheduled for October 23, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in Room 100.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Review of meeting dates and notetakers
• Teaching and Learning Updates – Mr. Elwell
• Shepherd Hill Regional High School Music Parents Association Updates
• School Climate and Culture Discussion

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will consider a vote on residential solar projects. It will also review chapter land requests for right‑of‑first‑refusal (ROFR) and rollback provisions. An update on the tax rate process will be provided. The meeting will close with an executive session to handle confidential motor‑vehicle excise and exemption applications.

• Residential Solar Vote‑see example
• Chapter land requests for ROFR and rollback
• Tax rate process update
• Executive session: motor vehicle excise applications (confidential)
• Executive session: exemptions and abatement applications (confidential)

The board unanimously accepted the May 21 meeting minutes and the May 21 executive‑session minutes. It voted not to exercise its right‑of‑first‑refusal on the Sampson Rd/McKinstry parcel (Parcel ID 32‑B‑2.1) and the PMZ/N Sullivan parcels (Parcel IDs 28‑A‑3 and 28‑A‑3.1). The meeting was adjourned at 9:42 a.m.

• Accepted May 21 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted May 21 executive‑session minutes (unanimous)
• Did not exercise ROFR on Sampson Rd/McKinstry parcel (32‑B‑2.1)
• Did not exercise ROFR on PMZ/N Sullivan parcels (28‑A‑3 & 28‑A‑3.1)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:42 a.m.

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley‑Charlton Regional School Committee will consider routine consent items, including approval of the meeting warrant and the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting. The committee will hold a workshop on Fiscal Year 2027 and conduct an open discussion with school building principals. Public comment and any new business may also be addressed.

• Approval of the meeting warrant (Consent Agenda)
• Approval of minutes from the October 8, 2025 regular meeting
• School Committee Workshop on Fiscal Year 2027
• Open discussion with school building principals

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings for 14 Notices of Intent and two Requests for Determination of Applicability. These requests involve residential construction, retaining walls, and driveway work near wetlands and water bodies. The body will also consider a request for removal from Chapter 61A on Sampson Road.

• Notice of Intent for 40 multi-family housing units at 35 North Main Street
• Notices of Intent for single-family homes at Sandersdale Road, Northside Road, Baker Pond Road, and N Sullivan Road
• Notices of Intent for retaining walls at 78 Glen Echo Shore Road and 211 Sunset Drive
• Request for Determination of Applicability for a house and driveway at 0 Prindle Hill Road
• Request for Removal from Chapter 61A for Sampson Road (Parcel ID: 32-B-2.1)

The Conservation Commission set public hearing dates for November 19 and December 17, 2025. It closed several Notice of Intent hearings and issued Orders of Conditions for multiple projects. The commission also issued a Complete Certificate of Compliance for 49 Carpenter Hill Road, declined a first‑right‑of‑refusal purchase, and approved a minor amendment to a DEP project.

• Scheduled Conservation hearings for Nov 19, 2025 and Dec 17, 2025 (motion passed)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for NOI DEP #128-1977 (Lot 1 Sandersdale Rd) (motion passed)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for NOI DEP #128-1978 (Lot 2 Sandersdale Rd) (motion passed)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for NOI DEP #128-1979 (Lot 3 Sandersdale Rd) (motion passed)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance with ongoing conditions for DEP #128-1643 (49 Carpenter Hill Rd) (motion passed)
• Did not exercise first right of refusal for Sampson Road parcel (Parcel ID 32‑B‑2.1) (motion passed)
• Approved minor amendment to DEP #128-1975 (30 Hill Rd) for additional disturbance (motion passed)
• Issued Negative Determination with conditions for RDA 41 Leland Drive (deck helical posts) (motion passed)

Cultural Council

The Charlton Cultural Council will meet remotely to discuss pending grant cycles and art show planning. The agenda lists these items as pending action items for the meeting.

• Grant Cycle review
• Art Show Planning
• Remote meeting via Zoom

The Cultural Council approved a total grant allocation of $9,245 for FY2026, breaking down into $510 for Council Admin expenses (5%) and $2,040 for Council Program (20%). Council funds were noted at $7,252. Action items were assigned, including a new logo design, ADA‑compliant website updates, and adding Lisa and Kenny to the town and MCC websites.

• Approved FY2026 grant allocation of $9,245 (no vote tally recorded)
• Recorded Council funds total of $7,252 (no vote tally recorded)
• Assigned Annette to follow up on new logo design
• Tasked staff with ADA‑compliant size, contrast, and font updates for the website
• Directed addition of Lisa and Kenny to town and MCC websites
• Appointed a Secretary (no vote tally recorded)
• Planned website updates (no vote tally recorded)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will consider awarding a bid to close the landfill at 54 Flint Road. It will also review old business items concerning the Flint Road Landfill and PFAS issues. The meeting includes acceptance of the September 16, 2025 minutes and setting the date for the next Board meeting.

• Award bid for closure of 54 Flint Road Landfill
• Old business discussion on Flint Road Landfill
• PFAS discussion and Department Head reports
• Acceptance of September 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Determine date of next Board of Health meeting

Select Board

The Charlton Select Board will open the meeting and then review the warrant and motions for the Special Town Meeting. Other business is listed as unknown at the time of posting. After the review, the board will attend the Special Town Meeting scheduled for 7:00 p.m. and then adjourn.

• Review warrant and motions for Special Town Meeting
• Attend Special Town Meeting at 7:00 p.m.

DCRSD- School Committee

The Policy Review Subcommittee will consider feedback on the IHBH Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy and review a draft Parent/Guardian Guide. It will also examine items from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees priority list, such as parent advisory councils and building access. The committee will update the School Committee Handbook and set the date for the next meeting.

• Approval of minutes from the September 18, 2025 meeting
• Feedback on IHBH – Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy
• Rework of KE – Parent/Guardian Guide to Address Concerns in the DCRSD
• Review of MASC priority list items: Parent Advisory Councils, Relations with Parent/Booster Organizations, Visitors to Schools, Access to Buildings and Grounds
• Update of the School Committee Handbook

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and receive updates from the Town Administrator and Finance Director. The committee is also scheduled to attend a Special Town Meeting.

• Attendance at Special Town Meeting
• Updates from Finance Director and Town Administrator

The committee approved the minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting, the September 17, 2025 meeting, and the September 19, 2025 meeting. Each motion was seconded and carried. The committee then moved to adjourn, which was also carried.

• Approved August 20, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved September 19, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

DCRSD- School Committee

The Charlton School Committee’s School Council will introduce members, review its statutory charge and purpose, discuss council roles and responsibilities, and consider climate and culture issues. The council will also examine the annual school building budget as part of its responsibilities.

• Review of the annual school building budget
• Discussion of climate and culture
• Review of school council roles and responsibilities
• Presentation of the council's charge and purpose

DCRSD- School Committee

The committee will review the September 19, 2025 meeting minutes. It will consider old‑business items including competency determination and a math update related to the October 10 professional‑development day. New business will address the upcoming Professional Development Day on October 10, 2025.

• Review of September 19, 2025 minutes
• Competency determination (old business)
• Math update – professional development day October 10 (old business)
• Professional Development Day – October 10, 2025 (new business)

Planning Board

The Charlton Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a multi-family housing project and a subdivision plan modification. The meeting also includes discussions on private road access, a recreation land lighting amendment, and bond releases for battery energy storage systems.

• Public Hearing: GM Properties, LLC - The Villages Multi-Family Units at 35 N. Main Street
• Public Hearing: Fabiola Caesar Estivern - Ponnakin Hill Definitive Subdivision Plan Modification
• Discussion: Beach Middle Road - Private Road Access
• Discussion: Charlton Recreation Land lighting amendment (42-B-1&2)
• Discussion: Decommissioning Bond By-Laws and Future Policy

The Planning Board approved a $19,059 bond reduction for Phase 2 and a $230,124 reduction for Phase 3 of the Jennings Road Extension. It also recommended no objection to the town not exercising its right of first refusal on the Sampson Road parcel and supported the Climate Act letter. The public hearing for the GM Properties multi‑family project was continued to November 5, 2025.

• Approved $19,059 bond reduction for Phase 2 Jennings Road Extension (unanimous)
• Approved $230,124 bond reduction for Phase 3 Jennings Road Extension (unanimous)
• Recommended no objection to town not exercising right of first refusal on Sampson Road (unanimous)
• Supported Climate Act letter (unanimous)
• Continued GM Properties public hearing to November 5, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved October 2025 minutes as presented (unanimous, Don Clay abstained)
• Signed letter of support to MA Division of Conservation Service for Open Space and Recreation Plan (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:55 p.m. (unanimous)

Charlton Housing Authority

The Charlton Housing Authority board will review routine reports, hear tenant comments, and conduct board member training. The primary decision item is approving the low‑bidder for the replacement of the rear entry deck. Other agenda items are standard procedural matters such as approving prior minutes and the treasurer’s report.

• Approve low‑bidder contract for replacement rear entry deck
• Board member training session
• Treasurer’s report
• Executive Director’s report
• Tenant comments

Housing Production Plan Steering Committee

The Housing Production Plan Steering Committee will discuss the results of the community survey on housing needs. Members will review community outreach efforts related to plan data. The committee will consider next steps for the plan and may address other business.

• Discussion of Community Survey on Housing Needs
• Community Outreach Efforts for Plan Data
• Next Steps for Committee
• Other Business – Unknown at time of posting

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to discuss the preliminary FY ’27 budget and the FY ’27 Annual Action Plan. The board will also review the Proctor Policy and the State Financial Report.

• Preliminary FY ’27 Budget discussion
• FY ’27 Annual Action Plan
• Proctor Policy
• State Financial Report
• Candidates for CPLCTrustFund

The trustees approved the September 18, 2025 minutes and set the next meeting for Dec. 11, 2025. They adopted the proposed Proctor Policy with suggested changes and voted unanimously to oppose placing guns in town offices, including the library. The board also required CPLC Trust Fund candidates to submit personal statements before a selection is made.

• Approved September 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Set next regular meeting for Dec 11, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Proctor Policy with suggestions (unanimous)
• Adopted position not to support guns in town offices, including the library (unanimous)
• Required CPLC Trust Fund candidates to submit statements (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct public hearings regarding house numbering changes at two locations. The board will also vote on several municipal appointments and a special beverage license for Monarch Orchards.

• Public hearing for house numbering change at 77 E. Baylies Road
• Public hearing for house numbering change at 98 Old Worcester Road
• Vote on Special Alcoholic Beverage License & Special Event Permit for Monarch Orchards
• Appointments for Cultural Council, Housing Production Plan Steering Committee, and Traffic Constables
• Acceptance of resignations for Per Diem Dispatcher and Cemetery Laborer

The board approved the September 23, 2025 meeting minutes, appointed several members to the Cultural Council, Housing Production Plan Steering Committee, and Traffic Constable positions, and accepted two resignations. In the public hearing, the board unanimously closed the hearing and then voted unanimously to take no action on the proposed renumbering of 77 E. Baylies Road. All appointments and resignations were approved unanimously.

• Approved September 23, 2025 minutes (Singer abstained)
• Appointed Lisa Aube to Cultural Council (unanimous)
• Appointed Linda Walker, Earlyne Murray, Anne McIntosh to Housing Production Plan Steering Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Louis P. Masse Jr., Troy J. Kasper Sr., John G. White as Traffic Constables (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Per Diem Dispatcher Meaghan Campbell (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Cemetery Laborer John Holbrook (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on 77 E. Baylies Rd house-number change (unanimous)
• Took no action on 77 E. Baylies Rd house-number change (unanimous)

Tri-Epic Regional

The TRI‑EPIC Regional Emergency Planning Committee will hear a presentation on the final planning review for the HMEP exercise scheduled for October 25. The committee will also discuss how to enhance member engagement as it shifts to all‑hazard and risk planning. Additional updates on grants, the Bi‑Law Committee, and the CERT program will be provided.

• Presentation: JJ Burke – HMEP Exercise Final Planning Review for the October 25 Exercise
• Discussion: Enhancing Member Engagement – shift to all‑hazard and risk planning
• Update: Bi‑Law Committee – fall meeting dates to be set
• Update: HMEP 2025 Grant Updates
• Update: CERT Program – progress, initiatives, and upcoming events

The Tri‑Epic Regional Emergency Planning Committee approved the Treasurer's Report with a unanimous vote and set membership dues at $250 per town for TRI‑EPIC and $500 per town for CERT. The Executive Board was tasked to draft a dues‑adjustment proposal and timeline. Southbridge Public Health and MA State Police liaison Kevin Pollard were welcomed as new members. A planned power shutdown at Webster Campus was noted with no major external needs.

• Approved Treasurer's Report (unanimous, no abstention)
• Approved meeting minutes from August 12 2025 (unanimous, no abstention)
• Set TRI‑EPIC dues per town at $250.00
• Set CERT dues per town at $500.00
• Executive Board to draft dues‑adjustment proposal and timeline
• Welcomed Southbridge Public Health as a member organization
• Welcomed Kevin Pollard (MA State Police) as MEMA liaison
• Noted Webster Campus power shutdown (Nov 8‑9) with no major external needs

Lakes & Ponds Committee

The Lakes & Ponds Committee will meet to discuss survey proposal requests for 2026 and the drawdown schedule. The body will also review budget updates for FY 2026 and the status of a Municipal Waterways Fund withdrawal warrant article.

• 2026 Pre-Treatment Survey Proposal Requests
• FY 2026 Budget Updates
• Municipal Waterways Fund Withdrawal warrant article status
• Marcia Drive Demonstration Stormwater BMP information
• 2025 Water Testing updates and schedule

Activities Council

The Activities Council will review the minutes from its prior meeting. It will receive updates on the Charlton Arts & Activities Center facilities and discuss how the space is being used. The council will consider plans for a Trunk‑or‑Treat event. An open forum will allow public comments.

• Review minutes of prior meeting
• Facility updates and usage
• Planning for Trunk or Treat event
• Open forum for public comments

The council unanimously approved the minutes from the September 27 meeting. A motion to procure and sell 200 hotdogs at the upcoming Trunk‑or‑Treat event for $2 each was also approved unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved September 27 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to procure and sell 200 hotdogs at Trunk‑or‑Treat ($2 each) (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Charlton Board of Health will hold a remote meeting via Zoom on September 4, 2025. The agenda includes approving the September 4 minutes, receiving FY26 project updates, and staff updates for the Regional Inspector and Regional Community Health Coordinator. Member communities from Charlton, Sturbridge, Sutton, Spencer, and Wales will discuss their health concerns, and other unanticipated business may be addressed.

• Approval of September 4, 2025 meeting minutes
• FY26 project updates presentation
• Staff updates for Regional Inspector and Regional Community Health Coordinator
• Discussion by member communities of Charlton, Sturbridge, Sutton, Spencer, Wales
• Other unanticipated business

The Board of Health decided to table the FY26 projects. Ethan Melad presented draft Communications & Service request SOPs for members to review and comment. Members discussed shadowing the tobacco inspector, work across Charlton and neighboring towns, and issues such as lost IDs and residents living in cars. No vote tallies were recorded.

• Tabled FY26 projects (no vote recorded)

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley‑Charlton Regional School Committee will consider routine consent items and reports from school principals. It will hear a FY25‑FY26 budget update from Director of Finance & Operations Joseph DeSantis and discuss the Superintendent’s and Committee’s 2025‑2026 goals. The committee will also discuss and vote on MASC Resolutions 2025.

• Approval of the meeting warrant (Consent Agenda)
• Approval of minutes from the September 24, 2025 regular meeting (Consent Agenda)
• FY25‑FY26 Budget Update presented by Director of Finance & Operations Joseph DeSantis
• Discussion and vote on Superintendent’s 2025‑2026 Goals
• Discussion and vote on School Committee’s 2025‑2026 Goals

Conservation Commission

The Charlton Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings on several Notice of Intent applications that involve construction or work near wetlands and vegetated stream buffers. The meeting will also review certificates of compliance for various properties and discuss stormwater violations and enforcement orders. Items listed are anticipated topics, though not all may be addressed.

• NOI DEP #128-1938 – 35 North Main Street – 40 multi-family housing units near a wetland buffer
• NOI DEP #128-1971 – 80 Richardson Corner Road – extension and widening of a farmer’s wall within 15 ft of a bordering vegetated wetland
• NOI DEP #128-1983 – W175 Existing Electric Transmission ROW – installation of ~1.75 mi of fiber within the 100‑ft buffer of a bordering vegetated wetland
• Certificate of Compliance – DEP #128-1543 – 90 Haggerty Road
• Stormwater Violation – Hycrest Road – site clearing

The Conservation Commission moved several Notice of Intent hearings to October 22, 2025, including projects at 35 North Main Street and 80 Richardson Corner Road. It closed hearings and issued Orders of Conditions for the fiber transmission project (DEP #128-1983) and approved an amendment to Order of Conditions for 13 Oak Ridge Drive. The commission also issued a Negative Determination for the Nugget Drive demolition request and approved multiple Certificates of Compliance, including one Invalid Certificate for 27 Robert Blvd.

• Continued hearing for NOI 128-1938 (35 North Main St) to Oct 22, 2025 – motion passed
• Continued hearing for NOI 128-1971 (80 Richardson Corner Rd) to Oct 22, 2025 – motion passed
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for fiber project NOI 128-1983 – motion passed
• Issued amendment to Order of Conditions DEP #128-1924 for 13 Oak Ridge Drive – motion passed
• Issued Negative Determination for RDA 116 Nugget Drive – motion passed
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for DEP #128-1665 (4 (Lot 2) Buteau Rd) – motion passed
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for DEP #128-1813 (32 Blood Rd) – motion passed
• Issued Invalid Certificate of Compliance for DEP #128-1693 (27 Robert Blvd) – motion passed

Fire Substation Committee

The Charlton Fire Substation Building Committee will meet via Zoom on Oct. 8, 2025. Members will receive a budget update and consider votes on budget transfers, change order requests, and contractor payment requests. The agenda also includes a project schedule update and planning for an on‑site meeting.

• Consider and vote on budget transfers
• Deliberate and vote on change order requests
• Deliberate and vote on contractor payment requests
• Project schedule update
• Plan on‑site meeting

The committee approved Change Order #5 for $64,633.31 unanimously. It also approved Pay Request 6 for up to $840,958.33, contingent on final review, unanimously. An on‑site meeting was scheduled for the next two weeks, and the meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved Change Order #5 for $64,633.31 (unanimous)
• Approved Pay Request 6 up to $840,958.33, contingent on review (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes from August 13 and September 10, 2025 (unanimous)
• Scheduled on‑site construction review meeting within two weeks (planned)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

DCRSD- School Committee

The Capital and School Safety Subcommittee will review the minutes from March 19, 2025. New committee members will be introduced. The board will receive an update on fire panels and discuss the capital plan. A discussion of solar projects is also on the agenda.

• Approval of Minutes (3/19/25)
• New Committee Members
• Fire panels — Update
• Capital Plan — Discussion
• Solar Projects

Planning Board

The Charlton Planning Board meeting on Oct 1, 2025 will hold public hearings on several development applications. It will discuss decommissioning bond by‑laws and policy, and review the decommissioning bond approval decision for Nextera Energy’s solar project at 261 North Sturbridge Road. The board will also consider a site plan for L&B Enterprises at 29 Southbridge Road and a subdivision plan modification for Ponnakin Hill at 21‑A‑5. The agenda includes a master plan discussion, minutes, other business, and a board update.

• Public hearing – GM Properties, LLC – The Villages Multi‑Family Units, 35 N. Main Street (35‑C‑9) – second submittal
• Review decommissioning bond approval decision – Nextera Energy solar project, 261 North Sturbridge Road (14‑B‑7&11.1)
• Public hearing – L&B Enterprises, LLC – Site Plan, 29 Southbridge Road (33‑B‑22.1)
• Public hearing – Fabiola Caesar Estiverne – Ponnakin Hill Definitive Subdivision Plan Modification (21‑A‑5)
• Discussion of decommissioning bond by‑laws and future decommissioning bond policy

The Planning Board continued the GM Properties public hearing to Oct. 15, 2025. It approved the L&B Enterprises site plan for 29 Southbridge Road, adding conditions from the Graves Engineering peer‑review. The Hycrest Road subdivision hearing was postponed pending a certified storm‑water report. The board also approved the Sep. 17 minutes and set the next meeting for Oct. 15.

• Continued GM Properties public hearing to Oct. 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved L&B Enterprises site plan with conditions #14 and #17 (unanimous)
• Postponed Hycrest Road subdivision hearing pending storm‑water report (unanimous)
• Approved Sep. 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next Planning Board meeting for Oct. 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:15 p.m. (unanimous)

Water/Sewer Commission

The Water & Sewer Commission will review the August 2025 monthly operating report from Veolia. The body will discuss infrastructure improvements at Route 20/Richardson Corner Rd and Old Worcester Rd, as well as a data update proposal. A notice of intent to convert land to residential use on N. Sullivan Rd will also be addressed.

• Proposed $11,000 expenditure for Wright Pierce to update data
• Infrastructure of roadway improvements at Route 20/Richardson Corner Rd and Old Worcester Rd
• Notice of intent to convert Chapter 61A land to residential use at N. Sullivan Rd (Map 28, Block A Lot 3.1 and Lot 3)
• Veolia Monthly Operating Report for August 2025

The Charlton Water/Sewer Commission accepted the meeting minutes and approved warrants totaling $80,583.86. It also authorized a $9,000 purchase for a sensor kit, recommended that the Board of Selectmen not pursue first‑refusal on a property, and approved the sale of an old pull‑behind generator. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes of October 1, 2025 (4‑aye)
• Approved warrants in the amount of $80,583.86 (4‑aye)
• Authorized purchase of sensor kit and service for $9,000.00 (4‑aye)
• Recommended BOS not initiate first‑refusal for N. Sullivan Rd property (4‑aye)
• Authorized sale of old pull‑behind generator as surplus equipment (4‑aye)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑aye)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will approve prior minutes and discuss the Chapter 61 land Sisco/PMZ. The meeting includes an executive session to review confidential motor vehicle excise applications, exemptions, abatement requests, and tax forms.

• Approve minutes from May
• Chapter 61 land Sisco/PMZ discussion
• Tax rate process update
• Executive session for confidential applications
• Review Form 3ABC and Income/Expense forms

Cultural Council

The Charlton Cultural Council will meet remotely to review the upcoming grant cycle, plan the town’s art show, and address any outstanding action items. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Grant Cycle – review of upcoming grant process
• Art Show Planning – discussion of upcoming exhibition
• Action Items – review of pending tasks

The Cultural Council approved a FY26 grant allocation of $9,245, divided into $510 for Council Admin expenses and $2,040 for Council Program (20%). Council funds total were recorded as $7,252. The meeting minutes were approved unanimously. An action item was assigned for Annette to follow up on a new Baypath logo with ADA compliance considerations.

• Approved FY26 grant allocation of $9,245 (no vote tally recorded)
• Recorded Council funds total of $7,252 (no vote tally recorded)
• Minutes approved unanimously (vote: unanimous)
• Assigned Annette to follow up on new Baypath logo and ADA compliance

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is meeting to review bylaws updates and guidelines for the town website. The body will also discuss signage with BayPath and a grant application for artwork.

• Bylaws updates
• Town website guidelines for residents
• Signage updates with BayPath
• Fay Mountain Farm updates
• Grant application for artwork

The Charlton Historical Commission reviewed a walk‑through at Fay Mountain, discussed creating guidelines and welcome postcards for property owners in historic districts, examined the 1977 Historical District sign‑off list, and considered posting website updates. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded; the meeting resulted in assigned research and drafting tasks.

Activities Council

The council will review the minutes from its prior meeting. It will receive updates on the Charlton Arts & Activities Center facilities and usage. The council will discuss plans for the upcoming Trunk or Treat event. An open forum will allow members of the public to speak.

• Review minutes of prior meeting
• Facility updates and usage
• Trunk or Treat event planning
• Open Forum for public comments

The council voted to discontinue private rentals of the town facility, allowing only non‑profit and artistic use. It also approved several purchases for the 2025 Trunk‑or‑Treat event, including a food truck, bottled water up to $30, eight gallons of cider, and Halloween candy up to $200. The council reminded a resigning member to submit a written resignation and adjourned the meeting at 10:55 a.m.

• Approved minutes of 08/09/25 (all approve)
• Approved discontinuation of private rentals; non‑profit and artistic use continues (all approve)
• Approved attempt to procure BT's food truck at no charge (all approve)
• Approved purchase of bottled water not to exceed $30 (all approve)
• Approved purchase of 8 gallons of cider at cost (all approve)
• Approved purchase of Halloween candy up to $200 (all approve)
• Approved reminder to resigning member to submit resignation in writing (all approve)
• Approved adjournment of meeting at 10:55 a.m. (all in favor)

DCRSD- School Committee

The DCRSD Budget & Finance Subcommittee will approve the June 10, 2025 meeting minutes. Members will vote to appoint a chair and a vice chair. The committee will receive an update on the FY2026 budget and a report on the FY2024 audit. No other actions are listed.

• Approve minutes from 6/10/2025 meeting
• Select chair of subcommittee
• Select vice chair of subcommittee
• FY2026 budget status update
• FY2024 audit update

Fay Mountain Farm Committee

The Fay Mountain Farm Committee will conduct a site walk at 12 Cemetery Road to assess possible repairs and improvements. The agenda notes that items discussed are those anticipated by the Chair, and not all listed items may be addressed. No decisions are pre‑scheduled for this meeting.

• Site walk to assess possible repairs and improvements at Fay Mountain Farm

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley-Charlton Regional School Committee will discuss and vote on goals for the Superintendent and the Committee for the 2025-2026 period. The meeting includes a presentation of the FY2024 audit by CBIZ and a request for a paraprofessional position at CES.

• FY2024 Audit Presentation by CBIZ
• Request for paraprofessional position at CES
• Vote on Superintendent's 2025-2026 Goals
• Vote on School Committee's 2025-2026 Goals
• Approval of out-of-state field trip to Narragansett, RI

Conservation Commission

The Charlton Conservation Commission will meet on September 24, 2025 to consider public inquiries, approve minutes, and discuss a schedule of public hearings for several Notice of Intent applications involving development near wetlands, a farmer’s wall extension, and fiber transmission line work. The commission will also review certificates of compliance for two properties and address old and new business items such as a stormwater BMP demonstration on Marcia Drive and a stormwater violation on Hycrest Road. The meeting will be held in person at 37 Main Street and via Zoom.

• NOI DEP #128-1938 – 40 multi‑family units at 35 North Main Street (wetland buffer)
• NOI DEP #128-1971 – Extension and widening of farmer’s wall at 80 Richardson Corner Road (within 15 ft of vegetated wetland)
• NOI for approx. 1.75 mi of fiber installation in existing transmission ROW (W175) within 100‑ft wetland buffer
• NOI DEP #128-1982 – Building addition and parking at 29 Southbridge Road (riverfront area)
• Certificates of Compliance for 90 Haggerty Road (DEP #128-1543) and 32 Blood Road (DEP #128-1813)

Select Board

The Charlton Select Board will approve minutes from the September 9 meeting, reaffirm several appointments, and discuss a dangerous‑dog hearing. It will vote on setting the town’s Trick‑or‑Treat date, a special alcoholic‑beverage license for the Overlook Fall Festival, and the potential ratification of a Department of Public Works contract. The meeting also includes a briefing from Town Administrator Andrew M. Golas and an executive‑session discussion on collective‑bargaining strategy.

• Re‑affirm appointment of Activities/Department Assistant for Council on Aging – Emily Reyes
• Dangerous Dog Hearing – “Gia” owned by Maureen McGinty (continued)
• Board vote to set Trick‑or‑Treat date and time
• Special Alcoholic Beverage License request for The Overlook Fall Festival
• Potential ratification of the DPW contract

The Select Board unanimously approved several budget articles and appointments, including the Activities/Department Assistant for the Council on Aging and a student representative. It also approved amendments to town bylaws and accepted Hyde Road and Downey Lane as public ways. The Board voted not to support a $50,000 appropriation for a senior‑center feasibility study (3 ayes, 1 nay). The dangerous‑dog hearing on “Gia” was continued for three months.

• Re‑affirmed appointment of Emily Reyes as Activities/Dept Assistant (unanimous)
• Appointed Natalie Perron as Bay Path student representative (unanimous)
• Appointed Vicki Thompson to Housing Production Plan Steering Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Kenneth Laferriere to Historic District Commission and Cultural Council (unanimous)
• Approved Articles 1‑5 of FY2026 budget and appropriations (unanimous)
• Approved Bylaw amendments Articles 6‑9 (unanimous)
• Accepted Hyde Road and Downey Lane as public ways (unanimous)
• Rejected $50,000 senior‑center feasibility study funding (3 ayes, 1 nay)

Finance Committee

The Charlton Finance Committee will review updates to the town's capital plan budgeting and the Town Meeting Warrant. Members will discuss the town's free cash position and receive updates from the Finance Director and Town Administrator. The committee will meet with the Board of Selectmen to vote on warrant items and capital projects, and will consider any other business that may arise.

• Updates to Capital Plan budgeting / Town Meeting Warrant
• Free Cash Discussion
• Update from Finance Director and Town Administrator
• Meet with Board of Selectmen to vote on Town Meeting Warrant items and Capital
• Other Business – unknown at time of posting

The committee approved adding $50,000 from free cash to the capital plan for a senior‑center feasibility study at the former Charlton Furniture site on Dresser Hill Road. It also unanimously supported Articles 1‑5 of the FY26 Special Town Meeting Warrant and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved $50,000 senior‑center feasibility study from free cash (unanimous)
• Supported Article 1 of FY26 Special Town Meeting Warrant (unanimous)
• Supported Article 2 of FY26 Special Town Meeting Warrant (unanimous)
• Supported Article 3 of FY26 Special Town Meeting Warrant (unanimous)
• Supported Article 4‑Motions 1‑4 of FY26 Special Town Meeting Warrant (unanimous)
• Supported Article 5 of FY26 Special Town Meeting Warrant (unanimous)
• Motion to move forward with the capital plan passed
• Motion to reconvene with the Select Board meeting passed

Cemetery Commission

The Charlton Cemetery Commission will consider accepting the minutes from its June 17 and August 25, 2025 meetings. Commissioners will sign deeds and other required documents, and review the monthly burial count and prior month’s expenses. The meeting will also include updates on a May 18 trash disposal incident and the hiring of a facilities laborer.

• Accept minutes from 6/17/25 & 8/25/2025 meetings
• Signing of deeds or other documentation
• Review of monthly burial count and prior month expenses
• Update on trash disposal incident (05/18/2025)
• Update on Cemetery Facilities laborer position hiring

The commission approved the June 17 and August 25, 2025 meeting minutes, amending the spelling of Pannella to Pennella. Deeds were signed for cemetery plots purchased by the Sullivan family and Judy L. Stegenga. The trash‑dump restitution of $200 was deposited, and John Holbrook began work as the Cemetery/Facilities laborer. The meeting was adjourned after a motion passed.

• Approved June 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 25, 2025 meeting minutes with spelling amendment (motion by Willis, seconded by Donna, passed)
• Signed deeds for cemetery plots (Sullivan family and Judy L. Stegenga)
• Deposited $200 restitution from trash‑dump incident
• Hired John Holbrook as Cemetery/Facilities laborer (employment began)
• Scheduled fall cleanup to begin Oct 14, 2025
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Willis, seconded by Donna, passed)

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley-Charlton Regional School District's Capital and School Safety Subcommittee will meet to approve minutes and discuss the capital plan and fire panel updates. No action is scheduled on solar projects.

• Approval of March 19, 2025 minutes
• Discussion of capital plan
• Fire panel update
• No update on solar projects

DCRSD- School Committee

The DCRSD Curriculum Subcommittee will review old business items, including competency determination and math leveling in middle school. It will consider new business such as committee organization, a professional development update, a CTE middle school pathway, and potential topics for the year. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Competency Determination (old business)
• Math Leveling in Middle School (old business)
• Committee Organization (new business)
• Professional Development Update (new business)
• CTE Middle School Pathway (new business)

Library Trustees

The trustees will approve the August 21, 2025 minutes and set the next meeting for October 16, 2025. They will discuss a new library card policy and review candidates for the CPLC Trust Fund. The board will consider the FY 2026 budget and hear directors’ reports, including the issue of out‑of‑state library cards.

• Approval of August 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of Library Card Policy
• Consideration of candidates for CPLC Trust Fund
• Discussion on issuing out‑of‑state library cards
• Review of FY 2026 budget

The trustees approved the minutes from the August 21, 2025 meeting with all members voting in favor. They also approved the new Library Card Policy unanimously. The next regular meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting was adjourned at 7:25 p.m. after a motion was approved.

• Approved August 21, 2025 minutes (approved by all)
• Approved new Library Card Policy (approved by all)
• Scheduled next regular meeting for Oct 14, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 7:25 p.m. (motion passed)

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will hold a hybrid meeting on September 18, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. to discuss business and take potential action. The meeting will be held at 60 Foster Street in Worcester and via Zoom Webinar.

• Approval of minutes from August 21, 2025
• Administrators Report (Rickman)
• Business from the Public
• Potential action item: Roll call vote to adjourn

DCRSD- School Committee

The DCRSD Policy Review Subcommittee will meet to approve the minutes from the August 15, 2025 meeting and discuss a reorganization of the chair role. Members will review updated and new district policies, address CTE vocational education and general community complaints, and consider an update to the School Committee Handbook. The subcommittee will also set the next meeting date, review quorum requirements, and note future agenda items such as the Policy Reconciliation Project and job description reviews.

• Approval of August 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of updated and new district policies
• Review of CTE vocational education matters
• Update to the School Committee Handbook
• Consideration of the Policy Reconciliation Project

Finance Committee

The Charlton Finance Committee will convene to approve the minutes from its August 20, 2025 meeting and discuss regional dispatch services. The session will also include an update from the Finance Director and Town Administrator.

• Approval of August 20, 2025 minutes
• Regional Dispatch Discussion
• Update from Finance Director and Town Administrator

The committee discussed staffing challenges, training opportunities, and funding options for a regional emergency dispatch center, including a 911 grant and state cost‑share. A motion was made to have the Finance Committee support the concept of regionalizing dispatch services. The motion passed with unanimous affirmative votes from Camosse, Finnegan, Lemire, and Belsito.

• Approved support for regional dispatch regionalization (4-0 unanimous)

Fay Mountain Farm Committee

The Fay Mountain Farm Committee is meeting to discuss the termination of the current farm operator's contract and the start of a new request for proposal process. Members will also review farm maintenance tasks and inventory town-owned equipment.

• Proposal to terminate the Fay Mountain Farm Operator contract
• Initiation of a new request for proposal (RFP) process for a farm operator
• Creation of a list for Town-owned equipment located at the farm, bakery, and barn
• Review of pending farm maintenance tasks

The committee approved a motion to terminate the existing Fay Mountain Farm operator contract and to begin a new request‑for‑proposal process for a replacement. Neil Johnson agreed to assist with the transition and will compile a list of town‑owned, privately owned, and negotiable equipment. Members scheduled a site walk of the barn for September 25, 2025 at 11 a.m. to assess needed repairs. The next meeting is set for October 23, 2025 at 6 p.m.

• Terminate FMF operator contract and initiate new RFP process (passed)
• Schedule barn walk for Sep 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM (scheduled)
• Assign Neil Johnson to provide equipment inventory list (task assigned)
• Adjourn meeting (passed)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings for projects at 29 Southbridge Road, 35 N. Main Street, and Ponnakin Hill. Members will also discuss decommissioning bond by-laws and the town's Master Plan.

• Public Hearing: L&B Enterprises, LLC site plan at 29 Southbridge Road
• Public Hearing: GM Properties, LLC multi-family units at 35 N. Main Street
• Public Hearing: Fabiola Caesar Estiverne Ponnakin Hill subdivision plan modification
• Annual approval extension requests for Sturbridge Road Solar Farm and Lunar Meadows
• Discussion of Decommissioning Bond By-Laws and future policy

The Planning Board continued two public hearings to October 1, 2025 and agreed to draft wording for decommissioning bylaws. It approved annual approval extensions for the Lunar Meadows Subdivision, the N. Sturbridge Road Solar Facility, and the N. Sturbridge Road Scenic Road. The board also placed the Hammond Woods Subdivision on the warrant for town acceptance of Hyde Road and Downey Lane and approved several ANR lot‑creation motions. All motions passed with all members in favor.

• Continued L&B Enterprises public hearing to Oct 1, 2025 (all members in favor)
• Continued GM Properties public hearing to Oct 1, 2025 (all members in favor)
• Approved Lunar Meadows Subdivision annual approval extension to 11/18/26 (all members in favor)
• Approved N. Sturbridge Road Solar Facility annual approval extension to 11/18/26 (all members in favor)
• Approved N. Sturbridge Road Scenic Road special permit annual approval extension to 11/26/26 (all members in favor)
• Placed Hammond Woods Subdivision on warrant for town acceptance of Hyde Road and Downey Lane (all members in favor)
• Approved Oxbow Road ANR to create 2 lots (all members in favor)
• Approved Sampson Road ANR to create 3 lots (all members in favor)

Charlton Housing Authority

The Charlton Housing Authority will hold its regular monthly meeting. The agenda consists of standard items such as the treasurer’s report, the executive director’s report, tenant comments, and routine business. No specific contracts, rezoning, or policy changes are listed.

• Call meeting to order
• Approve minutes of prior meeting
• Treasurer’s Report
• Executive Director’s Report
• Tenant Comments

Public Hearings

The Charlton Planning Board will hold a public hearing to consider a site plan application from L & B Enterprises, LLC. The proposal is for a 1,280 square foot building addition at 29 Southbridge Road (Route 169).

• Site plan application for 1,280 square foot building addition at 29 Southbridge Road

Water/Sewer Commission

The Water & Sewer Commission is meeting at the sewer plant to discuss a headworks upgrade. The commission will meet with an engineer from Wright Pierce.

• Headworks upgrade discussion with Wright Pierce engineer

Old Home Day Committee

The committee is meeting to wrap up the 2025 Old Home Day. Members will discuss the most successful activities, identify changes for the following year, and determine roles for next year.

• Review of 2025 Old Home Day activities
• Discussion of changes for next year
• Assignment of roles for next year

The Old Home Day Committee voted to approve the August 26 meeting minutes, with all members in favor. The committee also set the date for its next meeting as January 21, 2026. No other formal actions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved August 26 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for Jan. 21, 2026

Board of Health

The Charlton Board of Health will consider the Flint Road Landfill item. The board will receive department head reports on PFAS. The meeting also includes a Keep Charlton Beautiful annual update and routine items such as acceptance of minutes and scheduling the next meeting.

• Flint Road Landfill
• PFAS – department head reports
• Keep Charlton Beautiful annual update
• Accept minutes from August 19, 2025 meeting
• Determine next Board of Health meeting

The Board voted to accept the August 19, 2025 minutes, with all members in favor. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:48 p.m. by a unanimous motion.

• Accepted August 19, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:48 p.m. (all in favor)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will discuss new projects, action items regarding benches, and the installation of video surveillance signs. The body will also review bills for field house window installation and playground maintenance.

• Payment for A. Menard & Sons Inc for window installation at Little League Field House
• Payment for RoadSafe Traffic Systems for signs prohibiting roller blades, skateboards, and scooters
• Discussion on locations for video surveillance signs
• Review of facility and field use application fees
• Planning for walking trail from Cemetery to Masonic Home Road

The commission voted 2-0 to postpone approval of the September 8‑18, 2025 meeting minutes until the absent member can review them. It then approved five invoices—A. Menard & Sons Inc., Amazon, Home Depot, Slims & Berthiaume Sewer Service, and Roadsafe Traffic Systems—totaling $866.66. The meeting was adjourned by a 2-0 vote.

• Hold off on approving September 8‑18, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Approve A. Menard & Sons Inc. invoice $75.00 (2-0)
• Approve Amazon invoice $24.79 for D batteries (2-0)
• Approve Home Depot invoice $56.82 for graffiti remover (2-0)
• Approve Slims & Berthiaume Sewer Service invoices $660.00 for porta‑potty service (2-0)
• Approve Roadsafe Traffic Systems invoice $50.05 for basketball court sign (2-0)
• Adjourn meeting at 7:57 p.m. (2-0)

DCRSD- School Committee

The Dudley‑Charlton Regional School Committee will meet to approve routine agenda items, consider a donation for the SHRHS athletics program, and discuss the superintendent's and committee's goals for the 2025‑2026 year. The committee will also review an update to Policy JRA‑R and hold an executive session on collective‑bargaining strategy. Votes may be taken on any listed items.

• Acceptance of a donation – SHRHS Athletics
• Discussion of the superintendent’s 2025‑2026 goals
• Discussion of the school committee’s 2025‑2026 goals
• School committee policy JRA‑R update
• Executive session to discuss collective‑bargaining strategy

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings for several Notices of Intent and one Request for Determination of Applicability. The body will review projects involving residential construction, utility infrastructure, and commercial additions near wetlands. The meeting also includes reviews for Certificates of Compliance and enforcement orders.

• Notice of Intent for 40 multi-family housing units at 35 North Main Street
• Notice of Intent for 1.75 miles of fiber installation at W175 Electric Transmission ROW
• Notice of Intent for single-family residences at Lot 1, Lot 2, and Lot 3 Sandersdale Road
• Notice of Intent for building addition and parking lots at 29 Southbridge Road
• Request for Determination of Applicability for garage demolition and construction at 137 Hammond Hill Road

The Conservation Commission approved continuations of public hearings for several Notice of Intent applications, moving them to September 24, 2025. It withdrew the Lot 5 Harrington Road application from the agenda and closed the hearing for the 0 North Main Street project, issuing an Order of Conditions. The commission issued a Negative Determination for a garage demolition request at 137 Hammond Hill Road, stating no Notice of Intent is required. It ratified an enforcement order for 18 Oak Ridge Drive, declined the town’s first right of refusal to purchase land on N Sullivan Road, and approved Certificates of Compliance for septic and construction projects.

• Continued hearing for NOI DEP #128-1938 (35 North Main St) to Sep 24, 2025
• Continued hearing for NOI DEP #128-1971 (80 Richardson Corner Rd) to Sep 24, 2025
• Withdrew Lot 5 Harrington Road NOI from agenda
• Closed hearing for NOI DEP #128-1980 (0 North Main St) and issued Order of Conditions
• Issued Negative Determination for RDA 137 Hammond Hill Rd – no NOI required
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for DEP #128-1931 (87 Jennings Rd)
• Ratified Enforcement Order for 18 Oak Ridge Drive
• Did not exercise first right of refusal to purchase land at N Sullivan Road (Parcel ID 28-A-3 and 28-A-3.1)

Water/Sewer Commission

The Water & Sewer Commission will consider a Chapter 61A notice to change a property on N. Sullivan Rd (parcels 28-A-3 and 28-A-3.1) to residential use. The meeting also includes a Veolia monthly operating report for July 2025 and a discussion with Tauper L and Survey regarding use of Wright Pierce at J. Davis Rd/City Depot Rd. Old business items cover roadway infrastructure improvements on Route 20/Richardson Corner Rd, staffing plan updates, and contract language review.

• Chapter 61A notice of intent to convert N. Sullivan Rd (parcels 28-A-3, 28-A-3.1) to residential use – Peter Hauge
• Veolia – Monthly Operating Report for July 2025
• Tauper L and Survey – Mikael Lassila (Rockaway Realty Trust) discussion on utilizing Wright Pierce at J. Davis Rd/City Depot Rd
• McClure Engineering – Route 20/Richardson Corner Rd infrastructure roadway improvements
• Discussion of staffing plan and contract language

The commission accepted the August 6, 2025 minutes and approved warrants totaling $98,887.25. It granted Lauper Land Survey permission to use the Wright Pierce site and authorized communication with the Building Department to review the 5 East Service Area project. Commissioners also voted to begin negotiations on a new five‑year water and sewer contract that would allow four staff members.

• Accepted August 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved warrants in the amount of $98,887.25 (unanimous)
• Granted Lauper Land Survey permission to utilize Wright Pierce (unanimous)
• Authorized communication with Building Dept to review 5 East Service Area (unanimous)
• Approved negotiations for a new 5‑year contract allowing four staff (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Fire Substation Committee

The Charlton Fire Substation Building Committee will meet via Zoom on September 10, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. The agenda includes approving the prior meeting’s minutes, receiving a budget update and voting on budget transfers, and providing a project schedule update. The committee will also deliberate and vote on change order requests and contractor payment requests. No additional business is specified.

• Approve minutes from the previous meeting
• Budget update and vote on budget transfers
• Project schedule update
• Deliberation and vote on change order requests
• Deliberation and vote on contractor payment requests

The Fire Substation Building Committee approved Pay Rec 5 for up to $804,449.29, contingent on final review by Context and CHA, with a 5-0 vote. No minutes were available for approval and no action was taken on budget transfers or change order requests. The meeting was adjourned by a 5-0 vote.

• Approved Pay Rec 5 up to $804,449.29 (5-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0)

Select Board

The Charlton Select Board will consider a regional dispatch proposal for the Central Massachusetts Regional 911 District and may vote on it. The meeting also includes discussions on a potential senior center property acquisition, house‑numbering change requests, and a road layout public meeting for Hyde Road and Downey Lane. Appointments for Police Officer Michael Fournier and Cemetery Laborer John Holbrook will be reaffirmed, and a nuisance‑dog hearing for a dog named Chip will be held.

• Re‑affirm appointment – Police Officer Michael Fournier
• Re‑affirm appointment – Cemetery Laborer John Holbrook
• Nuisance Dog Hearing – dog Chip, owner Chris Power, 39 Center Depot Rd.
• Regional Dispatch Proposal – Central Massachusetts Regional 911 District
• Potential Property Acquisition for Senior Center

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting. It re‑affirmed the appointments of Police Officer Michael Fournier and Cemetery Laborer John Holbrook, and appointed Sue Crockett to the Community Center Feasibility Committee and Bradford Howard to the WRTA Advisory Board. The board also approved the town’s Open Space & Recreation Plan and a supporting letter, and granted a 90‑day continuance on the nuisance‑dog complaint before any further action.

• Approved August 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Re‑affirmed appointment of Police Officer Michael Fournier (unanimous)
• Re‑affirmed appointment of Cemetery Laborer John Holbrook (unanimous)
• Appointed Sue Crockett to Community Center Feasibility Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Bradford Howard to WRTA Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Approved Open Space & Recreation Plan and letter of support (unanimous)
• Granted 90‑day continuance on nuisance‑dog complaint before declaring dogs a nuisance (unanimous)

Lakes & Ponds Committee

The Charlton Lakes & Ponds Committee will meet to review the FY 2026 budget, 2025 water testing, and MS4 stormwater items. The agenda includes a review of lake management procedures and updates on weed treatment and catch basin repairs.

• FY 2026 Budget Updates
• 2025 Water Testing
• MS4/Stormwater potential catch basin work
• Existing Catch Basin Repair/Replace
• Lake Management Procedure Review

Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss outreach and sales for Old Home Day and ideas for fall activities and fund usage. The group will also review options for Household Hazardous Waste and a potential meeting with the Board of Health on September 16.

• Old Home Day sales and outreach
• Fall activity ideas and use of funds
• Potential September 16 meeting with Board of Health
• Household Hazardous Waste options

The Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee accepted the August meeting minutes unanimously. It also approved a motion to reduce the price of two water barrels from $130 to $75, with all members in favor. Cathy Jolicoeur agreed to accompany Deb Marquis to the Board of Health meeting on September 16.

• Accepted August minutes (unanimous)
• Approved water barrel price reduction to $75 (unanimous)
• Cathy Jolicoeur will accompany Deb Marquis to Board of Health meeting Sep 16

Board of Health

The board unanimously approved the August 14, 2025 meeting minutes and the FY26 workplan. Members agreed to post a Public Health Specialist position with a focus on Title V services, food, housing, and environmental health inspections. A unanimous motion directed Ethan Melad to write a letter to East Brookfield asking the town to post a local health‑inspector job within 30 days and hire by Jan 1 2026.

• Approve August 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approve FY26 workplan as presented (unanimous)
• Decide to post for a Public Health Specialist with Title V focus
• Motion to write letter to East Brookfield requesting health‑inspector posting passed (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board appointed new officers, approved three Battery Energy Storage System modifications, and withdrew a dog‑day‑care site plan. It also continued the public hearing on the Villages multi‑family project to September 17 and recorded no objection to the town’s decision on the N. Sullivan Road parcel. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Appointed Bill Fontaine as Chair (all members in favor)
• Appointed Patsy Rydlak as Vice‑Chair (all members in favor)
• Appointed Leoni Howard as Secretary (all members in favor)
• Approved three Battery Energy Storage System modifications – Griffin Road Lot F, Griffin Road Lot G, and 288 Southbridge Road Incom (all members in favor)
• Withdrawn Sellew Doggie Day Care Modification without prejudice (all members in favor)
• Continued GM Properties “The Villages” public hearing to September 17, 2025 (all members in favor)
• No objection to Town not exercising first right of refusal for N. Sullivan Road parcel (all members in favor)
• Approved September 13, 2025 meeting minutes (all members in favor)

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council approved the September 2 minutes with a unanimous vote. They set the next meeting for September 30. Action items were assigned: Annette will follow up on the new logo and ADA compliance, and prepare a press release; John will process the Oakland Stroke Band reimbursement. The 2026 grant allocation of $10,200 was noted.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for Sept 30
• Assigned Annette to follow up on new logo and ADA compliance
• Assigned Annette to prepare grant‑cycle press release
• Assigned John to process Oakland Stroke Band reimbursement
• Noted 2026 grant allocation of $10,200

Old Home Day Committee

The committee unanimously approved the August 19, 2025 meeting minutes. Members discussed and allocated responsibilities for the upcoming Old Home Day, including fireworks placement, trash pickup, porta‑potties, and race logistics. No other formal motions were recorded.

• Approved August 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission approved a $200 reimbursement to the Town of Charlton for a trash‑dump incident. It also approved hiring John J. Holbrook as the new cemetery facilities laborer. The July 21, 2025 meeting minutes were approved, while the June 17, 2025 minutes remain pending. The D. Mason paving quote of $25,000 was reviewed with no further action taken.

• Approved $200 reimbursement to the Town (motion by Willis, seconded by Donna)
• Approved hiring of John J. Holbrook as cemetery facilities laborer
• Approved July 21, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Willis, seconded by Donna)
• Deferred approval of June 17, 2025 meeting minutes pending Chair's signature
• Reviewed D. Mason paving quote $25,000; no action taken

Library Trustees

The board approved the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting and set the next regular meeting for September 18, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. Trustees voted to amend the library's by‑laws. The Exhibit Policy and its application form were also approved. The trustees agreed to monitor the issuance of state library cards.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Set next regular meeting for September 18, 2025 6:30 p.m.
• Approved amendment to trustee by‑laws (unanimous)
• Approved Exhibit Policy and application form (unanimous)
• Agreed to monitor state library card issuance (consensus, no vote)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved the June 24, 2025 minutes by unanimous roll‑call vote. It scheduled the next regular meetings for September 17 and September 23, 2025 at 7 p.m. The committee expressed support for a one‑time $7,000 insurance buyout and related cost‑sharing language to be relayed to the Selectboard. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved June 24, 2025 minutes (aye votes: Lemire, Belsito, Terry, Camosse)
• Scheduled next regular meeting for September 17, 2025 at 7 p.m.
• Scheduled next regular meeting for September 23, 2025 at 7 p.m.
• Supported one‑time $7,000 insurance buyout (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:45 p.m. (aye votes: Lemire, Belsito, Terry, Camosse)

Board of Health

The Board accepted the July 22, 2025 minutes and unanimously approved the variance request for 0 Beach Middle Road, allowing the well to be placed 75 feet from the owner’s septic system. No new actions were taken on the Flint Road landfill PFAS issue. The Board noted that the Homie Collective’s camp at 508 International is in compliance and will not be denied use of the site.

• Accepted July 22, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 0 Beach Middle Road variance as presented (unanimous)
• No new action on Flint Road landfill/PFAS (status unchanged)
• Confirmed Homie Collective camp at 508 International is in compliance (no denial)

Old Home Day Committee

The Charlton Old Home Day Committee will meet to approve minutes, discuss finances, and plan events including the road race, parade, and soap box derby. The group will also review updates to the event manual and consider new ideas for the 2025 celebration.

• Approval of August 12, 2025 minutes
• Road race and children's race planning
• OHD Manual updates for Kids Race, Trophies, and Golf Carts
• Soap Box Derby event planning
• Publicity signs and donations at the Gazebo

The committee unanimously approved the August 12 meeting minutes. It granted permission to use the Overlook property for the parade. Ticket price for the Rock n Roll race was set at $5 for two races, and vendor layouts will be installed on August 25 at 5:00 pm. Announcer shifts and 12 publicity signs around town were also confirmed.

• Approved August 12 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Granted permission to use Overlook property for parade (via Daniel)
• Set Rock n Roll race ticket price at $5 for two races
• Scheduled vendor layout installation for Aug 25, 5:00 pm (location TBD)
• Assigned announcer shifts: Joe Gaucher 8:30‑11:30 am; Kathleen & Deb 1:00‑2:00 pm; Leoni 3:30‑4:30 pm
• Placed 12 publicity signs around town
• Confirmed road race registration deadline Aug 14 and medal details
• Noted one non‑functional GFI outlet on the common (no resolution yet)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will meet to discuss 5, 10, and 15-year planning. The body will also review several facility maintenance items and safety checks for playgrounds and fields.

• Pickleball court repairs
• Purchase of graffiti remover
• Replacement of basketball court signage
• Weekly field safety check reports for the Assistant Town Administrator
• Bills for solar lights and porta potties

The Charlton Recreation Commission approved the installation of two cameras at the basketball area and skate park, and authorized several small expenditures for solar lights, porta‑potties, graffiti remover, a signage update, and batteries. It also adopted a weekly field‑check form and approved the minutes from the July 21 meeting. All motions passed unanimously with a 2‑0 vote.

• Approved installation of two cameras at basketball area and skate park (2-0)
• Approved Amazon invoice for solar lights, $93.48 (2-0)
• Approved three Slims & Berthiaume Sewer Service porta‑potty invoices, $660.00 (2-0)
• Approved purchase of Goo Gone graffiti remover, $113.64 (2-0)
• Approved purchase of basketball‑court sign, $25.00 plus shipping (2-0)
• Approved purchase of Panasonic D batteries, $24.45 (2-0)
• Approved weekly field‑check form (2-0)
• Approved minutes of the July 21, 2025 meeting (2-0)

Board of Health

The board approved the June 12 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. By consensus, Debra Vescera was named the backup MAVEN user for all CCPH towns. The FY26 budget was approved unanimously. The next meeting was rescheduled to September 4 at 10:30 am.

• Approved June 12 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Designated Debra Vescera as backup MAVEN user (consensus)
• Approved FY26 budget as presented (unanimous)
• Rescheduled next meeting to September 4 at 10:30 am

Planning Board

The Planning Board moved several items to September 3, 2025, including the Sellew Doggie Day Care site‑plan modification and the GM Properties, LLC public hearing. It approved a one‑year annual extension for J.JillDevelopment, LLC’s James Lane Subdivision through August 23, 2026. The Board also approved three ANR lot‑creation actions and then adjourned the meeting at 8:30 p.m.

• Continued Sellew Doggie Day Care site‑plan hearing to September 3, 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued GM Properties, LLC public hearing to September 3, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year extension for J.JillDevelopment, LLC James Lane Subdivision to August 23, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved N. Sturbridge Road ANR creating 2 lots on Brookfield Road (unanimous)
• Approved Prindle Hill Road ANR creating 3 lots on Prindle Hill Road (unanimous)
• Approved Oakridge Drive ANR creating 1 lot on Oakridge Drive (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:30 p.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on multiple Notices of Intent (NOI) for residential and infrastructure projects affecting wetland buffer zones. The body will also consider Certificates of Compliance for seven properties and a committee appointment.

• Notice of Intent for 40 multi-family housing units at 35 North Main Street
• Notice of Intent for 1.75 miles of fiber installation along W175 Electric Transmission ROW
• Notice of Intent for the 301 Transmission Line Asset Condition Refurbishment Project
• Request for Determination of Applicability to remove 15-20 trees at Lot 19 Pumpkin Lane
• Certificates of Compliance for 90 Haggerty Road, 150 Daniels Road, 4 Buteau Road, 8 Sunset Drive, 18 Willis Drive, and 0 Northside Road

The Charlton Conservation Commission approved a series of actions. It continued several Notice of Intent hearings to September 10, 2025, closed others with Orders of Conditions, issued multiple certificates of compliance (including one invalid), approved a minor amendment for the fire‑station project, and issued a negative determination for a tree‑removal request. It also appointed Brian Sullivan to the Fay Mountain Farm Committee.

• Continued hearing for NOI 128-1938 (35 North Main St) to Sep 10, 2025 (passed)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for NOI 128-1966 (Lot 2 Sandersdale Rd) (passed)
• Issued Negative Determination for RDA Lot 19 Pumpkin Lane (passed)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for DEP 128-1875 (150 Daniels Rd) (passed)
• Issued Invalid Certificate of Compliance for DEP 128-1299 (0 Northside Rd) (passed)
• Approved minor amendment for 4 Oxford Road fire‑station project (passed)
• Appointed Brian Sullivan to Fay Mountain Farm Committee (passed)
• Continued hearing for NOI 128-1971 (80 Richardson Corner Rd) to Sep 10, 2025 (passed)

Fire Substation Committee

The Fire Substation Building Committee approved Change Order 4, which includes a $2,716.22 increase for the decontamination sink, a $112.93 credit for ceiling modifications, a $17,485.07 increase for a roof truss redesign, and a no‑cost equipment relocation, with the motion passing 5‑0 pending additional sink information. The committee also approved Contractor Payment Request 4 for $489,347.42, with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved Change Order 4 (total changes $2,716.22 increase, $112.93 credit, $17,485.07 increase) – vote 5-0
• Approved Contractor Payment Request 4 for $489,347.42 – vote 5-0

Worcester Regional Transit Authority

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority will hold an Advisory Board meeting on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. The session will be held in person at 60 Foster Street and via Zoom Webinar. The agenda includes the approval of minutes from the June 26, 2025 meeting and a period for public comments.

• Approval of June 26, 2025 Advisory Board minutes
• Public comment period during 'Business from the Public'
• In-person and Zoom participation options available

Select Board

The Charlton Select Board approved several appointments, a traffic constable, and a request to implement all‑way stops at two intersections. It also refunded an inspection fee, opened the October 20 Special Town Meeting warrant, and adopted cannabis social‑equity policies and an ADA grievance procedure. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved July 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Re‑affirmed appointments of Police Officers Richard Fairbanks and David Fortier (unanimous)
• Appointed Traffic Constable Kenneth Poplawski (unanimous)
• Approved MassDOT all‑way stop recommendation for two intersections (unanimous)
• Refunded inspection‑service fee to James Scheuer (unanimous)
• Opened Special Town Meeting warrant for Oct 20, 2025 and approved calendar (unanimous)
• Adopted Cannabis Social‑Equity Policies (unanimous)
• Approved ADA grievance procedure and reasonable‑accommodation policy (unanimous)

Tri-Epic Regional

The Tri‑Epic Regional Emergency Planning Committee approved the June 10, 2025 meeting minutes and accepted the Treasurer’s financial report. Jason was appointed as the new committee secretary. The board also set action items for membership dues, CERT program development, a By‑Law Committee meeting, and scheduled the next meeting for October 14, 2025.

• Approved June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Accepted Treasurer’s financial report (motion passed)
• Appointed Jason as committee secretary (motion passed)
• Brimfield membership dues remain outstanding; Jason to follow up (action item)
• Jason and Matt to develop a specialized CERT team concept (action item)
• By‑Law Committee to set September meeting date (action item)
• Next committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2025 (action item)

Old Home Day Committee

The committee unanimously approved the July 29, 2025 meeting minutes. It decided the scavenger hunt will not happen this year and placed the Rock n Roll Racing event on hold until the next meeting. Additional actions included assigning Matt to have lawn signs ready by Friday, scheduling a vendor‑layout meeting on August 25 at 5 pm, and confirming three cars will be provided for parade awardees.

• Approved July 29 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Scavenger hunt will not occur this year
• Rock n Roll Racing event placed on hold pending next meeting
• Matt assigned to have lawn signs made by Friday
• Vendor‑layout meeting scheduled for Aug 25 5 pm at the gazebo (Rebecca)
• Three cars confirmed for parade awardees
• Brad assigned to back up Patsy at parade start (Steve request)
• Leoni assigned to call Mary to print additional flyers (Rebecca suggestion)

Lakes & Ponds Committee

The Lakes & Ponds Committee will review the FY 2025/26 budget and the end of year Fiscal 25 balance. The body will also discuss weed treatment, water testing, and the effects of wakesurfing on aquatic life.

• FY 2025/26 Budget Updates
• 2025 Weed Treatment Updates
• 2025 Water Testing equipment calibration and supplies
• MS4/Stormwater potential catch basin work
• Wakesurfing and effects on aquatic life

Community Center Feasibility Committee

The Community Center Feasibility Committee will review the status of the 9 Trolley Crossing property and discuss alternatives to move forward. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, Aug 11, at 5:00 pm in the Lower Level of the Charlton Senior Center.

• Review status of 9 Trolley Crossing property
• Discuss alternatives and options to move forward
• Meeting location: Lower Level of Charlton Senior Center, 37 Main Street

Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee

The committee voted to accept the minutes from the previous meeting, with all members in favor. No other formal actions or votes were taken; topics such as anti‑litter signs and a possible hazardous‑waste day were only discussed. The next meeting is scheduled for September 8 at 4:30 PM.

• Accepted previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Activities Council

The Activities Council approved hiring two magicians for the Trunk‑or‑Treat event, authorized a popcorn‑machine repair up to $100, and approved purchasing trophies up to $200. The council also approved the prior meeting minutes and adjourned the session at 11:04 a.m.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved hiring Maggie the Down ($350) and Fran Flynn ($400) as magicians (all in favor)
• Approved popcorn‑machine repair up to $100 (all in favor)
• Approved purchase of trophies up to $200 (all in favor)
• Approved adjournment of meeting at 11:04 a.m. (all in favor)

Water/Sewer Commission

The Water/Sewer Commission accepted the July 2, 2025 minutes. It approved warrants totaling $141,121.77 and a senior flat‑metered abatement of $827.06. Commissioners also approved a motion directing Masterson to obtain pricing from Wright Pierce and McClure for consultant work to evaluate ending the moratorium on large water‑sewer users.

• Accepted July 2, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved warrants $141,121.77 (5-0)
• Approved senior flat‑metered abatement $827.06 (5-0)
• Approved motion for Masterson to obtain consultant pricing to end moratorium (5-0)

Council on Aging

The council approved the minutes from July 2 and the treasurer's report, both unanimously. They accepted the HR policy posting for the Senior Center and unanimously approved Tri-Valley’s proposal to make the kitchen a Meals on Wheels site. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved July 2 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's report (unanimous)
• Accepted HR policy posting for Senior Center (unanimous)
• Approved Tri-Valley Meals on Wheels kitchen proposal (unanimous)
• Scheduled swearing‑in of three new board members at next BOS meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Charlton Cultural Council met remotely via Zoom on August 5, 2025. The council approved the meeting minutes unanimously. The council assigned follow‑up actions, including Bruce updating grant opportunities, pursuing a new logo, and establishing a direct‑grant system by the end of August. They also set a deadline to identify a chair by December and noted no interest in recruiting new members.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Bandshell Development Committee

The Bandshell Development Committee approved the meeting minutes from November 14, 2024. Because there was no quorum at the June 4, 2025 meeting, those minutes were not approved and will be submitted without approval. No other actions or approvals were taken.

• Approved 11/14/2024 meeting minutes
• 6/4/2025 meeting minutes not approved (submitted without approval due to lack of quorum)

Old Home Day Committee

The Old Home Day Committee approved the minutes from the July 14 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other formal actions were decided; the group discussed finances, entertainment, and event logistics for the upcoming Old Home Day and related activities, deferring many items to the next meeting on August 12.

• Approved July 14 meeting minutes (all in favor)

Board of Health

The Board accepted the June 17, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to shorten the tobacco‑permit suspension for Charlton Food Mart from 30 days to 21 days, with all members in favor. The meeting was adjourned at 7:12 p.m., also unanimously.

• Accepted June 17, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Reduced tobacco permit suspension for Charlton Food Mart to 21 days (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:12 p.m. (all in favor)

Cemetery Commission

The commission voted to move future monthly meetings to 1:00 pm. A motion to adjourn the July 21 meeting was also passed. The board discussed Owen Myers taking the Town Hall Custodian role and said Jim will advertise for his replacement at the cemetery. No other formal actions were taken.

• Changed regular meeting time to 1:00 pm (motion passed)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion passed)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the June 23, 2025 meeting. It authorized the purchase of two three‑pack solar light sets for the playground and a donor sign replacement, with the chair to arrange funding. The board approved uploading future agendas and minutes to the commission website and adopting a scheduling spreadsheet and online forms for field reservations, and approved payment of $660.00 in invoices to Slims. The commission also voted to remove the Mass Save Lighting update from the agenda and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved minutes of 6‑23‑2025 meeting (motion passed)
• Approved uploading future agendas/minutes to website (motion passed)
• Approved purchase of two 3‑packs of solar lights for playground (motion passed)
• Approved use of scheduling spreadsheet for field reservations (motion passed)
• Approved donor sign replacement, chair to discuss funding (motion passed)
• Approved payment of Slims invoices totaling $660.00 (motion carried)
• Removed Mass Save Lighting update from agenda (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:12 p.m. (motion carried)

Activities Council

The council unanimously approved the minutes from the Dec. 14 2024 and June 28 2025 meetings. The board scheduled JV Mechanical to visit on July 24 2025 to provide an estimate for theater air‑conditioning. A motion to adjourn was made and carried.

• Approved minutes from Dec 14 2024 and Jun 28 2025 (unanimous)
• Scheduled JV Mechanical visit on July 24 2025 for theater AC estimate
• K.Fengler tasked to finalize and communicate blueberry festival vendor sites
• D.Konopacki tasked to procure water and ice for the blueberry festival
• R.Mancini tasked to provide traffic cones for blueberry festival potty locations
• Motion to adjourn passed

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved two annexations to create new lots, extended the approval period for the Lambs Farm Estates subdivision, and appointed a delegate to the Central Mass Regional Planning Commission. It also postponed two public hearings to August 13, 2025, signed the updated Registry of Deeds form, and approved the June 21, 2025 minutes before adjourning.

• Continued public hearing for Sellew Doggie Day Care to Aug 13, 2025 (all members in favor)
• Continued public hearing for GM Properties, LLC Villages multi‑family units to Aug 13, 2025 (all members in favor)
• Approved Dresser Hill Road ANR to create 1 lot (all members in favor)
• Approved Sandersdale Road/Piehl Road ANR to create 6 lots (all members in favor)
• Extended Lambs Farm Estates Definitive Subdivision approval to July 20, 2026 (all members in favor)
• Appointed Bob Beringer as Planning Board delegate to Central Mass Regional Planning Commission (all members in favor)
• Signed updated Registry of Deeds ANR signature form (all members signed)
• Approved June 21, 2025 minutes and adjourned meeting (all members in favor)

Conservation Commission

The commission voted to advertise a public hearing on July 30 to consider an amendment to Stormwater Management Rules Section 1.6. It also approved planting saplings at 3 Hemlock Road and appointed Armand Bessette to the Fay Mountain Farm Committee. Additionally, the board issued complete certificates of compliance for two completed projects and continued several pending Notice of Intent hearings to August 13.

• Approved advertisement of public hearing on Stormwater Section 1.6 amendment (motion passed)
• Approved planting of saplings at 3 Hemlock Road (motion passed)
• Appointed Armand Bessette to Fay Mountain Farm Committee (motion passed)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for DEP #128-641 (90 Haggerty Road) (motion passed)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for DEP #128-858 (13 Scott Drive) (motion passed)
• Continued NOI DEP #128-1938 (35 North Main Street) hearing to Aug 13, 2025 (motion passed)
• Closed public hearing and issued Order of Conditions for 70 Glen Echo Shore Road (motion passed)
• Issued Negative Determination for 48 Stevens Park Road request (motion passed)

Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee

The Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee approved the July 14 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. Deb Marquis reported reimbursing $323 to the Charlton Garden Club and submitted a $573 reimbursement request to Go Green. Members discussed ideas for new trash‑container and recycling initiatives, and Andrea from Town Hall offered to help update the KCB webpage. The next meeting is set for August 11 at 4:30 p.m. in the Charlton Library community room.

• Accepted July 14 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Fire Substation Committee

The Fire Substation Building Committee approved the June 11 meeting minutes (4‑0). It also approved two change proposals—a $3,190.90 credit for gear locker doors and a $17,503.50 interior design change (4‑0). The committee then approved Contractor Payment Request #3 for $439,631.83, covering site work and trade items (unanimous). The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved June 11 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Change Proposal 19 credit $3,190.90 and Change Proposal 14 interior design $17,503.50 (4-0)
• Approved Contractor Payment Rec #3 $439,631.83 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Charlton Select Board unanimously approved the request to add an additional patrol officer to the FY26 budget. It also approved the Buffumville Lake Project Supplemental Agreement and appointed several staff members. The board accepted a resignation from the Council on Aging and approved the meeting minutes.

• Approved minutes of the June 10, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Appointed Shane Gatzke as Light Equipment Operator (unanimous)
• Appointed Keith Cloutier as Special Police Officer (term ends 6/30/2026) (unanimous)
• Appointed Jaime Fuentes as Traffic Constable (term ends 6/30/2026) (unanimous)
• Appointed Paul Russell as Traffic Constable (term ends 6/30/2026) (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of James Russell from the Council on Aging (unanimous)
• Approved Buffumville Lake Project Supplemental Agreement No. 2 (effective 3/31/2025‑3/31/2030) (unanimous)
• Approved request for an additional patrol officer in the FY26 budget (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council approved the July 8, 2025 minutes with a unanimous vote. Pending grant reimbursements were noted, and no final art‑show report was required because the allocation was not taken. The council set the next meeting for August 5 at 6:00 PM via Zoom and assigned several follow‑up tasks to members.

• Minutes approved unanimously
• Next meeting scheduled for August 5, 6:00 PM Zoom

Council on Aging

The board approved the meeting minutes and accepted the treasurer’s financial report unanimously. Cabinet locks were installed and padlocks will be obtained for secure storage. The board voted to choose Ed Ciesluk, Diane O'Regan, and Linda Walker to fill the open board positions, pending BOS approval. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Installed cabinet locks (completed)
• Selected Ed Ciesluk, Diane O'Regan, Linda Walker for board seats (vote taken, pending BOS approval)
• Sue Crockett volunteered for Senior Center Feasibility Committee
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Fire Substation Committee

The Fire Substation Building Committee approved Change Proposal #13, costing $101,649.56, to address grading, utility updates, and drainage revisions. The committee also approved Change Proposal #15, costing $14,909.34, for underground pipe coordination work. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Change Proposal #13 for $101,649.56 (unanimous)
• Approved Change Proposal #15 for $14,909.34 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The committee reorganized its leadership, confirming Hank Camosse as Chair and Kristen Lemire as Vice Chair. It approved the May 19, 2025 meeting minutes. The committee voted to support the Police Chief’s request for an additional officer using the Law Enforcement Trust Fund. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Hank Camosse as Chair (motion passed unanimously)
• Approved Kristen Lemire as Vice Chair (motion passed unanimously)
• Approved the May 19, 2025 Finance Committee minutes (motion passed unanimously)
• Supported the request to add an additional police officer (motion passed unanimously)
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:15 p.m. (motion passed unanimously)

Recreation Commission

The commission accepted the meeting minutes from May 12, 2025. It approved payment of three Slim’s invoices totaling $660. The board authorized the Recreation Office to begin soliciting construction bids for the band shell using the Amazon grant funds. A motion also passed to allow commission bills to be processed with a single signature.

• Accepted meeting minutes dated 5/12/25 (motion passed)
• Approved payment of Slim’s invoices #111597, #111599, #111601 totaling $660 (motion passed)
• Approved single‑signature processing for commission bills (motion passed)
• Authorized Andrew’s office to solicit construction bids for the band shell (motion passed)
• Approved adjournment at 8:26 pm (motion passed)

Cemetery Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the April 22, 2025 meeting. It ratified recent expense payments, kept all current officers in place for the coming year, and approved all cemetery‑related articles from the May 21 town meeting, including a 3% salary increase for staff. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved April 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Ratified expense payments made on behalf of the commission (motion passed)
• Officers remain the same for the coming year (motion passed)
• All cemetery‑related town‑meeting articles passed with no objections
• Approved FY2026 budget allocations for the cemetery commission
• Approved a 3% salary increase for commission staff

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the minutes from May 28, 2025. It continued several Notice of Intent hearings to July 16, 2025 and closed two public hearings, issuing Orders of Conditions for 60 Pumpkin Lane and 24 Willis Drive. The commission issued a Negative Determination for the 130 Sturbridge Road project, and accepted a minor amendment to the Order of Conditions for 5B Northside Road. Discussion of the Certificate of Compliance for 90 Haggerty Road was tabled.

• Approved May 28, 2025 minutes (passed)
• Continued multiple NOI hearings (e.g., 35 North Main Street, Sandersdale Road sites) to July 16, 2025 (passed)
• Closed public hearing for 60 Pumpkin Lane and issued an Order of Conditions (passed)
• Closed public hearing for 24 Willis Drive and issued an Order of Conditions (passed)
• Issued Negative Determination for 130 Sturbridge Road, stating no NOI required (passed)
• Accepted minor amendment to Order of Conditions for 5B Northside Road (passed)
• Tabled discussion of Certificate of Compliance for 90 Haggerty Road (passed)
• Continued Old Spencer Road runoff discussion to July 16, 2025 (passed)

Library Trustees

The trustees approved the minutes from the May 15, 2025 meeting after a motion by Fran M and second by Lance M. They agreed to cancel the July 17, 2025 meeting unless urgent business arises and scheduled the next regular meeting for August 21, 2025. A motion to amend by‑law articles 3 and 7 was made and seconded, with the board voting on the changes at the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

• Approved May 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Cancelled July 17, 2025 meeting unless urgent items arise
• Scheduled next regular meeting for August 21, 2025
• Motioned to amend by‑law Article 3 sections 2 & 4 and Article 7 section 3 (vote deferred)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:15 p.m.

Board of Health

The Board voted to accept the May 6, 2025 minutes, with all members in favor. Members asked questions of the Leominster Tobacco Control Alliance about permits and enforcement, but no actions were taken. The Board noted a PFAS detection at the Flint Road Landfill and will continue existing sampling. The meeting was adjourned with all members in favor.

• Approved acceptance of May 6, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (all in favor)

Historical Commission

The commission met on June 16, 2025 and discussed obtaining a second estimate for the Dexter painting project, assigning Suzanne Hall to provide the updated estimate. Members also talked about the commission's advisory role for the School House and guidance for Fay Mountain Farm, as well as possible updates to guidelines and bylaws. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Board of Health

The Charlton Board of Health approved the minutes from the April 10 and May 8, 2025 meetings by a unanimous vote. No other actions were approved, denied, or tabled during this session. The remainder of the meeting consisted of staff updates and discussion topics.

• Approved April 10 and May 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee

Committee member Clara Cogswell announced her resignation. A motion to reimburse the Charlton Garden Club up to $400 for pots, soil and plants was made, seconded and approved unanimously. Discussion continued on a possible $3,500 purchase of self‑watering planters, but no decision was made. The next meeting is scheduled for July 14.

• Approved up to $400 reimbursement to Garden Club (unanimous)

Water/Sewer Commission

The Water/Sewer Commission accepted the May 14, 2025 minutes and approved warrants totaling $83,293.04. Commissioners adopted a policy requiring upfront payment of privilege/betterment fees for new construction and ADUs. They also approved a $146,208.46 sewer abatement at the SE McDonalds site, several water tie‑in and connection permits contingent on fee payment, and a camera‑jetting contract for the Rt 20 sewer line.

• Accepted May 14, 2025 minutes (aye: Gagner, Grotton, Robert Coleman, Thomas Coleman)
• Approved warrants $83,293.04 (aye: Gagner, Grotton, Robert Coleman, Thomas Coleman)
• Amended policy to require upfront privilege/betterment fees for new construction and ADUs (aye: Gagner, Grotton, Bernard, Thomas Coleman, Robert Coleman)
• Approved $146,208.46 sewer abatement at SE McDonalds (aye: Gagner, Grotton, Thomas Coleman, Robert Coleman, Bernard)
• Approved 86 Berry Corner Rd water tie‑in, contingent on paying all privilege fees (aye: Gagner, Bernard, Thomas Coleman, Robert Coleman, Grotton)
• Approved Old Worcester Rd water and sewer connection pending engineering review and fee payment (aye: Gagner, Grotton, Bernard, Thomas Coleman, Robert Coleman)
• Approved camera‑jetting contract for Rt 20 sewer line, funded FY2025 into FY2026 (aye: Gagner, Bernard, Grotton, Thomas Coleman, Robert Coleman)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (aye: Gagner, Bernard, Grotton, Robert Coleman, Thomas Coleman)

Fire Substation Committee

The Fire Substation Committee approved the May 14 minutes unanimously. It approved five change order cost proposals totaling $28,035.68, also unanimously. The committee conditionally approved a payment requisition to Tower Construction not to exceed $201,836.05, pending final documentation. The meeting was adjourned with a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved May 14 minutes (3-0)
• Approved Change Order #1: CP #01 $2,945.05, CP #02 $5,417.44, CP #05 $4,915.01, CP #07 $1,657.43, CP #08 $13,100.75 (3-0)
• Conditionally approved Pay requisition #2 to Tower Construction up to $201,836.05 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Select Board

The Select Board unanimously ratified the three‑year police union contract covering July 2024‑June 2027. It also approved several appointments, including a provisional Local Inspector, two Activities Council members, a Per Diem Dispatcher, and promoted Timothy Smith to Sergeant. The board declined to exercise its right of first refusal on a 1.53‑acre church property and approved the DPW asphalt milling bid to Mass Broken Stone.

• Approved May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Justin Blaisdell as provisional Local Inspector (unanimous)
• Appointed Ray Mancini and Richard Watts to the Activities Council (unanimous)
• Appointed Meaghan Campbell as Per Diem Dispatcher (unanimous)
• Promoted Timothy Smith to Sergeant effective July 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Declined to exercise right of first refusal on Assessors Map 10, Block C, Lot 2.10 (unanimous)
• Approved DPW Asphalt Milling & Removal bid to Mass Broken Stone (unanimous)
• Ratified Police Union contract for July 2024‑June 2027 (unanimous)

Tri-Epic Regional

The committee approved the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting. A motion to accept Ralph for the open secretary position passed. A motion to accept Craig for the next role also passed. No vote counts were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved April 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Accepted Ralph for the open secretary position
• Accepted Craig for the next role

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted to continue the public hearings for the Sellew dog‑day‑care modification and the GM Properties multi‑family project to July 16, 2025. It then closed the Premier Trailer Leasing hearing and approved its site‑plan application with specific conditions. The board also approved two ANR lot adjustments for Hylka‑Lelandville Road and Joseph Construction Services on N. Main Street.

• Continued Sellew Doggie Day Care public hearing to July 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued GM Properties public hearing to July 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Closed Premier Trailer Leasing public hearing (unanimous)
• Approved Premier Trailer Leasing site plan with conditions 1, 2, 3, and 6 (unanimous)
• Approved Hylka‑Lelandville Road ANR lot line adjustment (unanimous)
• Approved Joseph Construction Services N. Main Street ANR lot adjustment (unanimous)

Bandshell Development Committee

The committee noted that the Massachusetts Cultural Council did not award the feasibility and technical assistance grant. It decided to issue a Request for Proposals for the complete bandshell project, planning to review proposals in early August and have a final proposal ready before the next grant cycle in mid‑October to mid‑December, with construction targeted for spring 2026. Andrew Golas will draft the RFP.

• Approved proceeding with a Request for Proposals for the bandshell project (no vote recorded)
• Recorded that the feasibility grant was not received

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission elected Mitch Dunn as temporary chair and approved the May 14, 2025 minutes. It closed several Notice of Intent hearings and issued Orders of Conditions for projects at 54 Flint Road, 0 Sandersdale Road (Lot 1), and 19 Dresser Hill Road. The commission also continued other hearings to June 18, 2025, and issued an Invalid Certificate of Compliance for 26 Gillespie Road (DEP #128-1129). All motions passed.

• Elected Mitch Dunn as temporary chair (motion passed)
• Approved minutes of May 14, 2025 (motion passed)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for 54 Flint Road (motion passed)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for 0 Sandersdale Road (Lot 1) (motion passed)
• Closed hearing and issued Order of Conditions for 19 Dresser Hill Road (motion passed)
• Continued hearing for 35 North Main Street to June 18, 2025 (motion passed)
• Issued Invalid Certificate of Compliance for 26 Gillespie Road (DEP #128-1129) (motion passed)
• Continued hearing for 70 Glen Echo Shore Road to June 18, 2025 (motion passed)

Select Board

The board adopted the Select Board Rules of Procedure and renewed the stormwater coalition agreement. It approved self‑closing gates for a dangerous dog case and accepted a historic commission resignation. Three DPW material contracts were awarded and several appointments were confirmed, all by unanimous votes.

• Approved minutes of May 13, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Appointed Garrett LaFrance and Marco Tiberii to Zoning Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Appointed Shawnie Boyce to Boston Post Cane Committee (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Matthiew Carlson from Historical Commission (unanimous)
• Approved self‑closing gate plan for dog Gia for three months (unanimous)
• Adopted Select Board Rules of Procedure (unanimous)
• Renewed IMA with Central MA Regional Stormwater Coalition, matching share ≤ $4,000/yr (unanimous)
• Approved DPW bids: Bituminous Concrete to Mass Broken Stone ($87.12/ton), Full‑Depth Pavement Reclamation to Murray Paving & Reclamation Inc. ($3.21/yd²), Asphalt Rubber Surface Treatment to All States Construction ($4.45/yd² for 10%, $5.75/yd² for 20%) (unanimous)

Activities Council

The council unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting and authorized the purchase of four hot‑air hand dryers for the restrooms, each costing no more than $100. The lower barn water supply was turned on, handicap and regular parking lines were painted, and portapotties and a Blueberry Festival sign were procured. Additional event preparations included invoices for a clown and band, ordering lawn signs, and confirming magician Fran Flynn for the festival. B. Menin will assist with advertising the June 14 bullying‑prevention program.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 4 hot‑air hand dryers (≤ $100 each) (unanimous)
• Approved procurement of portapotties and Blueberry Festival sign (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board denied the Hansen‑Hiland Road ANR due to a missing title certificate, approved the J. Davis Road ANR to create one lot, and set several public hearings to continue on June 4, 2025. It also approved field‑change modifications to the Charlton Fire Substation site plan, a two‑year extension of the GF Partners Sturbridge Road permit, and a $674,000 decommissioning bond with 25 % cash down. Additionally, the board expressed no objection to the town’s decision on the Gould and Cemetery Road parcel and voted to send a letter supporting the 2024 Climate Act to the governor and selectboard.

• Denied Hansen‑Hiland Road ANR without prejudice (all members in favor)
• Approved J. Davis Road ANR to create 1 lot (all members in favor, one abstention)
• Continued public hearing for Sellew Doggie Day Care to June 4 2025 (all members in favor)
• Continued public hearing for GM Properties multi‑family units to June 4 2025 (all members in favor)
• Continued public hearing for Premier Trailer Leasing site plan to June 4 2025 (all members in favor)
• Approved modifications to Charlton Fire Substation site plan as field changes (all members in favor)
• Approved two‑year extension of GF Partners Sturbridge Road permit to July 14 2026 (all members in favor)
• Approved $674,000 decommissioning bond with 25 % cash down (all members in favor)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the April 16, 2025 Finance Committee meeting. It approved the transfer of Bill Borowski's stipend to the Police Department. The meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m. No other actions were taken.

• Approved April 16, 2025 Finance Committee minutes (motion passed)
• Approved Bill Borowski's stipend transfer to Police Department (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:05 p.m. (motion passed)

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council approved the meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. The council confirmed that the large sign has been taken down. John was assigned to move forward with the direct grant system and a grant submission was completed. The next meeting was scheduled for after Memorial Day.

• Approve meeting minutes – unanimous vote
• Large sign taken down – completed
• Photographer check mailed – completed
• Reimbursement for beads by Tea ($90) – processed
• Direct grant system – John to move forward (assigned)
• Grant opportunities – grant submitted (completed)
• Next meeting scheduled for after Memorial Day – set

Library Trustees

The trustees approved the minutes from the April 17 meeting and scheduled the next regular meeting for June 17, 2025. They accepted Karen Walk's resignation and appointed Betsy Perry as the interim Library Director. The board decided to keep current officer positions unchanged and to address by‑law revisions at the next meeting.

• Approved April 17 minutes (unanimous)
• Set next regular meeting for June 17, 2025
• Accepted Karen Walk resignation
• Appointed Betsy Perry as Library Director
• Kept board officer positions as is
• Deferred by‑law review to next meeting

Water/Sewer Commission

The Water/Sewer Commission reorganized its leadership, appointing Paul Gagner as Chairman, Thomas Coleman as Vice Chair, and Robert Coleman as Clerk. It approved warrants totaling $100,906.66 and a senior rate abatement of $874.91. The board approved sewer connections for a North Main Street duplex and the new fire station at 4 Oxford Rd, both contingent on payment of privilege fees. It also authorized a purchase of a replacement water‑vault hatch for Oxbow Rd under $20,000 and declined the town's right of first refusal on 74 Gould Rd.

• Paul Gagner appointed Chairman (unanimous aye vote)
• Thomas Coleman appointed Vice Chair (unanimous aye vote)
• Robert Coleman appointed Clerk (unanimous aye vote)
• Warrants for $100,906.66 approved (unanimous aye vote)
• Senior abatement of $874.91 approved (unanimous aye vote)
• Sewer connection for North Main St. duplex approved, pending privilege fees (unanimous aye vote)
• Sewer connection for fire station at 4 Oxford Rd approved (unanimous aye vote)
• Authorization to purchase Oxbow Rd water‑vault hatch under $20,000 approved (unanimous aye vote)

Select Board

The board elected Karen Spiewak as Chair, Basia Zurawski as Vice‑Chair, and Basia Zurawski as Clerk. They also appointed Sarah Laskowski as the Council on Aging Kitchen Coordinator and approved two joint‑owned utility pole installations. Additional actions included a license transfer, a scholarship award, and several special alcoholic beverage licenses.

• Elected Karen Spiewak as Chair (3 ayes, 1 opposed, 1 abstain)
• Elected Basia Zurawski as Vice‑Chair (4 ayes, 1 abstain)
• Elected Basia Zurawski as Clerk (unanimous)
• Appointed Sarah Laskowski as Council on Aging Kitchen Coordinator (unanimous)
• Approved joint‑owned pole installation on Denfield Rd (unanimous)
• Approved joint‑owned pole installation on E. Baylies Rd (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of Class I license from McGee GMC to Butler GMC (unanimous)
• Awarded 2025 Jessie Smith Scholarship $250 (unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The commission voted to appoint Sheri Zanca as Chairman and Patsy Rydlak as Vice Chair. The board also approved the minutes from 4/21/25 and authorized several payments for equipment and services, including portable toilets, picnic tables, file folders, gazebo work, and a pitcher’s mound cover.

• Appointed Sheri Zanca as Chairman; motion passed
• Appointed Patsy Rydlak as Vice Chair; motion passed
• Accepted minutes of 4/21/25; motion passed
• Approved payment to Slims for invoices #11107, #11109, #11111 totaling $605; motion passed
• Approved payment to Home Depot invoice #268087 for $387 for three picnic tables; motion passed
• Approved payment to Amazon order 1HMH-69QJ-3T1Q for $21.56 for file folders; motion passed
• Approved payment to LaForte Electrical invoice #1565 for $1,200 for gazebo work; motion passed
• Approved purchase of Pitcher's Mound Cover from Beacon Athletics for $801.55 (including $690.99 item and $110.56 shipping); motion passed

Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee

The committee reported a $32 deposit from compost bucket sales at the Earth Day Festival and noted upcoming edits to the town's Keep Charlton Beautiful web page, including adding Clara Cogswell and removing Jean Hank. Members were reminded to send agendas to Karen Lacroix and post minutes within 48 hours, and to complete RDP worksheets by May 24. The group discussed social‑media posts for RDP points, a potential press release, and recycling practices, and scheduled the next meeting for June 9, 2025 at 4:00 pm.

Board of Health

The Board of Health formally tabled the minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting. A review of the Foundational Public Health Services framework was presented, with data to be finalized and shared later. Staff provided updates on training, case work, and collaborations. The meeting adjourned at 10:10 a.m.

• Tabled April 10, 2025 minutes (no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The Planning Board closed the public hearing on the zoning amendment and voted to support the zoning and map changes at the Annual Town Meeting. The Board also assigned Attorney Jonathan Silverstein to review the Hiland Road ANR title issue, approved the April 16 minutes, and adjourned the meeting at 10:15 p.m. Additionally, the Board agreed to draft a standard letter on decommissioning bonds and to hire a professional engineer for solar decommissioning projects.

• Approved motion to close public hearing on zoning amendments (unanimous)
• Approved motion to support zoning and map changes at Annual Town Meeting (unanimous)
• Assigned Attorney Jonathan Silverstein to review Hiland Road ANR title issue (unanimous)
• Approved April 16, 2025 minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment at 10:15 p.m. (unanimous)
• Agreed to draft a standard letter on decommissioning bonds (unanimous)
• Agreed to hire a professional engineer for solar decommissioning bonds (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The council unanimously approved the minutes from the April 2 meeting, including a correction about the Town Meeting approval. A motion to accept the Treasurer’s report, which detailed donations, grant funds, and expenses, also passed unanimously. The board assigned Vicki Thompson to investigate using the sewing room for additional storage and directed Michelle Drumm to draft a participation policy manual for the senior center. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved April 2 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Tasked Vicki Thompson to explore sewing‑room storage (no vote recorded)
• Directed Michelle Drumm to draft a senior‑center participation policy (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Board of Health

The Board accepted the April 9, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved the ADU septic plan for 7 Lamed Hill Road, adding a deed restriction for the accessory dwelling unit. The Board also adopted a requirement that water quality be tested at the ADU kitchen sink before occupancy. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted April 9, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved ADU septic plan for 7 Lamed Hill Road with deed restriction (all in favor)
• Adopted water quality testing requirement for ADU kitchen sink (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission noted that bylaws have been updated and are ready for a fall warrant, and will develop guidelines for resident applications. It planned to continue signage work with BayPath, prioritizing repairs, and to locate artwork in Town Hall or the library by contacting A. Golas. The commission also agreed to send a thank‑you note for 1776 documents, research Mercy Streater’s adventures, and inquire with the Historical Society about sharing a booth at Old Home Day.

• Bylaw updates prepared for fall warrant; guidelines for resident applications to be drafted
• Signage work to continue with BayPath, aiming for two signs per year and prioritizing repairs
• Artwork and photos to be hung in Town Hall or library; A. Golas to be asked for location
• Thank‑you note to be sent for Michael Dickson’s 1776 documents
• Suzanne Hall to research adventures of Mercy Streater
• Commission to ask Historical Society about sharing a booth at Old Home Day

Activities Council

The board approved the acquisition of eight 8‑ft picnic tables, a video screen for presentations, a cooler for events, and 12 BBF lawn signs, each within specified cost limits. The council also authorized proceeding with the purchase of a garden cart. Several members were assigned tasks such as contacting a plumber for the Lower Barn and investigating keypad entry and hot‑air hand dryers.

• Approved purchase of eight 8‑ft picnic tables, up to $200 each (all approve)
• Approved purchase of a video screen for presentations, up to $200 (all approve)
• Approved purchase of a cooler for events, up to $20 (all approve)
• Approved purchase of 12 BBF lawn signs, up to $200 each (all approve)
• Approved proceeding with purchase of a garden cart (all approve)
• Assigned DK to contact Gustafson Plumbing to open the Lower Barn for a May 17 event
• Assigned investigation of programmable keypad entry for farmhouse doors
• Assigned investigation of hot‑air hand dryers to replace paper towels

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council voted to approve the May 2, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. No other substantive motions were recorded in this session.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Water/Sewer Commission

The Water & Sewer Commission voted to hire consultant Vincent Masterson. A motion was also approved to increase the Sewer Plant Operation budget by $60,000 for FY 2026. Both motions passed with affirmative votes. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Hire consultant Vincent Masterson (approved, Cantwell abstained, Jennings and Mcclam aye)
• Add $60,000 to Sewer Plant Operation Budget FY 2026 (approved, Cantwell, Jennings, and Mcclam aye)
• Adjourn meeting (approved, Cantwell, Jennings, and Mcclam aye)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the minutes from March 26 and April 9, 2025. It continued multiple hearings to May 14, 2025 and issued both positive and negative determinations on several wetland‑related applications. The board also accepted a resource‑area delineation, granted a partial Certificate of Compliance for a solar project, extended one Order of Resource Area Delineation to 2028, and declined to extend another order.

• Approved minutes from March 26 and April 9, 2025 (motion passed)
• Continued hearing for 54 Flint Road Notice of Intent to May 14, 2025 (motion passed)
• Issued positive determination confirming resource‑area boundaries and negative determination with conditions for 30 Hill Road (motion passed)
• Accepted resource‑area delineation for J Davis Road & City Depot Road and issued an Order of Resource Area Delineation (motion passed)
• Issued Negative Determination with conditions for 93 Leland Drive shed request (motion passed)
• Issued Partial Certificate of Compliance for Carpenter Hill Road Solar project (motion passed)
• Extended Order of Resource Area Delineation DEP #128-1559 to May 14, 2028 (motion passed)
• Decided not to extend Order of Resource Area Delineation DEP #128-1483 after its expiration (motion passed)

Cultural Council

The Charlton Cultural Council approved the April 25, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. No other formal actions were recorded; pending items such as the grant cycle and art show planning remain for future discussion. The next meeting is set for May 2, 2025.

• Approved April 25 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors unanimously accepted the March 25, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted not to exercise its right of first refusal on parcel 10-C-2.11 belonging to Saint Mark Coptic Church. The meeting was then adjourned to an executive session.

• Accepted March 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Did not exercise ROFR on 10-C-2.11 for Saint Mark Coptic Church
• Adjourned to executive session (motion made and seconded)

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission approved the minutes from the March 25 and December 23 meetings. It ratified the expense payments listed in the recent warrants. The board took no action on the All Funeral Services digital‑recording proposal and asked Jim to research other cemeteries' solutions. Several items of equipment were declared surplus and authorized for disposal through MUNICIBID.

• Approved March 25 and Dec 23, 2024 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Ratified expense account payments listed in warrants (motion passed)
• Took no action on All Funeral Services digitalization proposal (motion passed)
• Declared surplus equipment (tractor, snow blower, utility cart, blower, leaf collector, chain saw, etc.) and authorized disposal via MUNICIBID (motion passed)
• Tasked Donna Neylon to draft a reply to Mr. Waldo Eastman Jr. on plot ownership (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:05 pm (motion passed)

Select Board

The board approved the Charlton Permanent Fire Fighters Association’s “Boot Drive” toll‑road event on Main St. and Masonic Home Rd. for April 26, 2025, with safety conditions set by the Police Chief. Shawnie Boyce was appointed COA Outreach Coordinator to start April 28, 2025. Laurie Degnan was appointed as an alternate member of the Planning Board. The Town Meeting warrant was also approved unanimously.

• Approved fire fighters’ toll‑road fundraiser (unanimous)
• Appointed Shawnie Boyce as COA Outreach Coordinator (unanimous)
• Appointed Laurie Degnan as Planning Board alternate (unanimous)
• Approved Town Meeting warrant (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss collective bargaining (unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission accepted the March 24 minutes and approved payment of two Slims & Berthiaume invoices totaling $424.16. A motion to purchase two to three picnic tables for Maynard Field, not exceeding $500, was also approved. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved acceptance of March 24, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved payment of Slims & Berthiaume invoices 110700 and 110702, total $424.16 (motion passed)
• Approved purchase of 2‑3 picnic tables for Maynard Field, not to exceed $500 (motion passed)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (motion passed)

Library Trustees

The trustees approved the minutes from March 20, 2025. They set the next meeting for May 15, 2025 at 6:30 pm. An interview committee was created for the library director search and three applicants were selected to move to the interview stage. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved March 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for May 15, 2025 at 6:30 pm
• Formed interview committee for director search
• Selected three applicants for director interviews
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a $674,000 decommissioning bond for the North Sturbridge Road solar farm, adding a statement that the bond will be reviewed every five years. It also adopted a no‑objection stance to the town not exercising its right of first refusal on the Gould and Cemetery Road parcel. The Board reclassified Jayne Gamey to Assistant Planner at $34.50 per hour and continued the Premier Trailer Leasing public hearing to May 21, 2025.

• Approved $674,000 North Sturbridge Road decommissioning bond with 25% cash down (all in favor)
• Added requirement to review the decommissioning bond every five years (all in favor)
• Adopted no objection to town not exercising right of first refusal for parcel O‑C‑2 (all in favor)
• Approved reclassification of Jayne Gamey to Assistant Planner at $34.50/hr (all in favor)
• Continued Premier Trailer Leasing public hearing to May 21, 2025 (all in favor)
• Approved sending certified letter to Mr. Boria requesting light shielding until shields installed (all in favor)
• Approved removal of current decommissioning bond policy (all in favor)
• Approved meeting adjournment at 10:10 p.m. (all in favor)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the March 26, 2025 Finance Committee minutes. After a presentation of the FY26 budget and related reports, the committee voted to support Articles 2 through 13 of the 2025 ATM Warrant. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved March 26, 2025 Finance Committee minutes (motion passed)
• Supported Article 2 of 2025 ATM Warrant (motion passed)
• Supported Article 3 of 2025 ATM Warrant (motion passed)
• Supported Article 4 of 2025 ATM Warrant (motion passed)
• Supported Article 5 of 2025 ATM Warrant (motion passed)
• Supported Article 6 of 2025 ATM Warrant (motion passed)
• Supported Article 7 of 2025 ATM Warrant (motion passed)
• Supported Articles 8‑13 of 2025 ATM Warrant (motion passed)

Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee

The Keep Charlton Beautiful Committee shared updates on a Spencer Transfer Station video, a planned garden planter at the island of Masonic Home and North Main Streets, and recycling outreach efforts. Members agreed to send Earth Day photos to social media and to explore recycling services and future yard‑sale ideas. The next meeting is set for Monday, May 122 at 4:30 PM in the Charlton Library community room.

Cultural Council

The council discussed pending items including the grant cycle, art show planning, and budget expenditures. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded; the meeting focused on reviewing costs, confirming vendors, and assigning future tasks. Action items such as updating grant opportunities and transitioning social media were noted for follow‑up.

Board of Health

The Board of Health approved a motion that was introduced on February 13, 2025, with Jim as the mover and David as the seconder. A meeting scheduled for March 13, 2025 could not conduct business because a quorum was not present. The remainder of the session consisted of updates on IMA amendments, housing‑related assistance requests, and a review of foundational public health services. The board adjourned at 9:31 am.

• Approved Feb. 13 motion (motion by Jim, second by David)
• No quorum on March 13, 2025 – no action taken

Conservation Commission

The commission approved a notice of stormwater violation for the property at 62 Old Spencer Road. It also approved the Order of Conditions for the 75 E Baylies Road permit and issued complete certificates of compliance for projects at 171 Sunset Drive and Lot 2 Oxford Road. Several pending hearings were postponed to April 23, 2025. The commission voted not to exercise its first right of refusal on the Gould/Cemetery Road parcel.

• Issued stormwater violation notice to 62 Old Spencer Road (motion passed)
• Issued Order of Conditions for DEP #128-1960 – 75 E Baylies Road (motion passed)
• Continued hearing for 54 Flint Road Notice of Intent to April 23, 2025 (motion passed)
• Continued hearing for Sandersdale ANRAD to April 23, 2025 (motion passed)
• Continued hearing for 30 Hill Road RDA to April 23, 2025 (motion passed)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for 171 Sunset Drive (motion passed)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for Lot 2 Oxford Road (motion passed)
• Declined first right of refusal for Gould/Cemetery Road parcel (motion passed)

Water/Sewer Commission

The commission approved the FY 2026 water enterprise budget and authorized several contracts, including a $9,000 RSI Construction job and a $4,625 FM Generators service. It also approved surplus of old chemical storage tanks, an abatement at 5 Gillespie Road, and a new sewer connection at Glen Echo Shore Road. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved FY 2026 water enterprise budget (3-0)
• Approved warrants totaling $85,805.96 (3-0)
• Approved RSI Construction contract for backflow work $9,000 (3-0)
• Approved FM Generators contract $4,625 (3-0)
• Approved surplus of old chemical storage tanks to another municipality (3-0)
• Approved abatement for 5 Gillespie Road (3-0)
• Approved sewer connection for Glen Echo Shore Rd, Lot 18 (3-0)
• Approved water‑meter tampering letter with $1,000 fine (3-0)

Tri-Epic Regional

The TRI‑EPIC Regional Emergency Planning Committee approved the February 11, 2025 minutes after a motion by Glenn, seconded by Joe Huiyk, which passed. The meeting was then adjourned following a motion by Craig, seconded by Glenn, which also passed. No other formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved February 11, 2025 minutes (motion by Glenn, seconded by Joe Huiyk, passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Craig, seconded by Glenn, passed)

Board of Health

The Board approved the March 11, 2025 minutes after a motion and second. A motion to reorganize the Board for the May term was passed, making Matt Gagner Chair, Steve Zeveska Vice Chair, and Jon Sanborn (or a new incumbent) a member. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Accepted March 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Reorganized Board: Matt Gagner Chair, Steve Zeveska Vice Chair, Jon Sanborn/member (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Charlton Select Board unanimously approved the promotion of Sergeant Anthony Gribbons to Police Lieutenant and Officer Jason White to Sergeant, and appointed Steve Buffone as Traffic Constable. The board also approved signing notes for borrowing to fund the fire sub‑station and landfill projects. In land‑use matters, the board affirmed it will not exercise its right of first refusal on Saint Mark Coptic Orthodox Church property and approved National Grid’s request for a new pole on Oxford Road. Finally, the board reopened the ATM warrant and added Article 5 to allow borrowing for a new fire engine.

• Approved appointment of Sergeant Anthony Gribbons as Police Lieutenant (effective July 13 2025) – unanimous
• Approved appointment of Officer Jason White as Sergeant (effective July 13 2025) – unanimous
• Approved appointment of Steve Buffone as Traffic Constable (term expires June 30 2025) – unanimous
• Approved signing of notes for borrowing for the fire sub‑station and landfill – unanimous
• Affirmed the town will not exercise its right of first refusal on Saint Mark Coptic Orthodox Church property – unanimous
• Approved National Grid’s request to install one pole on Oxford Road – unanimous
• Reopened the ATM warrant, added Article 5 for borrowing for a fire engine, and closed the warrant – unanimous
• Accepted resignations of Local Inspector Casey Burlingame, Council on Aging Kitchen Cook Sharon Vitale, and Arts & Activities Council member Nayari Veras – unanimous

Historical Commission

The commission agreed that restored signs will use consistent font, color, and size. R. Jha was assigned to contact Mike Bowie about sign‑hanging assistance. Suzanne will apply edits to the bylaws and forward the revised file to Becky for inclusion on the fall warrant. The group will begin outlining website guideline improvements and assign members to draft new content.

• Agreed restored signs will have consistent font, color, and size
• R. Jha tasked to reach out to Mike Bowie and confirm availability
• Suzanne to apply strikethroughs and revisions to the bylaws
• Suzanne to send updated bylaws to Becky for fall warrant inclusion
• Begin outlining website guideline improvements and identify responsible members

Cultural Council

The council voted to approve the meeting minutes from April 4, 2025, with unanimous support. No other formal actions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The council unanimously approved the March 5 minutes and the Treasurer's report. It also approved using Tri-Valley for meals four days a week starting April 14. The discussion of Bemis craft events was tabled, and the 2025 volunteer luncheon was scheduled for May 31 at the Salem Cross Inn.

• Approved March 5 minutes unanimously (with 1 correction)
• Accepted Treasurer's report unanimously
• Approved Tri-Valley meals 4 days/week starting April 14 unanimously
• Tabled discussion of Bemis craft events
• Scheduled 2025 volunteer luncheon for May 31 at Salem Cross Inn
• Adjourned meeting at 11:08 unanimously

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council voted to approve the March 28, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. No other agenda items were formally decided; the remaining topics remain pending discussion or planning.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board unanimously approved Laurie Degnan as an alternate member. It also approved a no‑objection stance on the town’s decision not to exercise the first right of refusal for the Gould and Cemetery Road parcel (10‑C‑2.11). The Board voted to reclassify Administrative Assistant Jayne Garney as Assistant Planner. Finally, the meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m.

• Approved Laurie Degnan as Planning Board Alternate (unanimous)
• Approved no objection to Town not exercising first right of refusal for Gould and Cemetery Road Parcel 10-C-2.11 (unanimous)
• Approved reclassification of Administrative Assistant Jayne Garney to Assistant Planner (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:30 p.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission accepted a minor amendment to Order of Conditions DEP #128-1747 for 57 Old Spencer Road. It also approved the February meeting minutes, issued Complete Certificates of Compliance for four projects, and continued multiple hearings and determinations to future dates.

• Accepted Minor Amendment to Order of Conditions DEP #128-1747 (motion passed)
• Approved February 12 and February 26, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for DEP #128-1518 (80 Richardson Corner Road) (motion passed)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for DEP #128-1258 (71 Lelandville Road) (motion passed)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for DEP #128-1821 (12 Elliott Drive) (motion passed)
• Issued Positive Determination for 0 Old Worcester Road Extension (motion passed)
• Continued hearing for NOI DEP #128-1959 (Lot 5 Harrington Road) to April 23, 2025 (motion passed)
• Continued hearing for NOI 54 Flint Road to April 9, 2025 (motion passed)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the February 26 and March 12 meeting minutes. It approved a total of $10,000 for Old Home Day, allocating $8,000 to the event and $2,000 to the Police Department. The meeting also discussed a 6.3% overall budget increase and adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

• Approved February 26, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved March 12, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved $10,000 funding for Old Home Day, with $8,000 to the event and $2,000 to Police Dept (committee agreement)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:00 p.m. (motion carried)

Cemetery Commission

The commission approved the December 23, 2024 meeting minutes but did not approve the January 28, 2025 minutes, which will be reconsidered. A motion to ratify recent expense payments was adopted. The commission voted to offer Mr. Lincoln two cemetery lots in Section C4, with flat‑marker only restrictions and a replacement deed at no cost. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved December 23, 2024 meeting minutes
• Did not approve January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (to be reconsidered)
• Ratified expense payments made on behalf of the Cemetery Commissioners
• Offered two Section C4 lots to Glen Lincoln with flat‑marker only rule and free replacement deed
• Adjourned the meeting

Board of Assessors

The Board unanimously accepted the February 25, 2025 minutes. A motion to close a $125,000 overlay surplus was passed. A motion to adjourn to executive session was made and seconded. The next Board of Assessors meeting is set for April 22, 2025.

• Accepted February 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved closure of $125,000 overlay surplus (motion passed)
• Motion to adjourn to executive session was made and seconded

Select Board

The Select Board approved a Special Alcoholic Beverage License for a wedding on May 9‑11, 2025, and a Special Event Permit for the Blueberry Festival on July 27, 2025. It also appointed Nicholas Choiniere as Light Equipment Operator and added Kathleen Dermady and Bruce Menin to the Community Center Feasibility Committee. The Board accepted the retirement notice of Robert Anderson and closed the ATM warrant. All actions passed unanimously.

• Approved Special Alcoholic Beverage License (Wine & Malt) for David Robinson wedding, May 9‑11 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Special Event Permit for Blueberry Festival, July 27 2025 at 4 Dresser Hill Rd (unanimous)
• Appointed Nicholas Choiniere as Light Equipment Operator, Highway Department (unanimous)
• Appointed Kathleen Dermady and Bruce Menin to Community Center Feasibility Committee (unanimous)
• Accepted retirement of Robert Anderson, Light Equipment Operator, effective July 24 2025 (unanimous)
• Closed ATM warrant request (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:04 pm (unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The commission accepted the minutes from the February 24, 2025 meeting. It approved Slims' quote of $190 per 28 days plus a $30 damage waiver for portable toilets. The motion to adjourn the meeting was also approved. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Accepted previous meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved Slims portable‑toilet quote $190/28 days + $30 waiver (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Cultural Council

The Charlton Cultural Council approved the meeting minutes unanimously. The council discussed a list of pending items, including grant reimbursements, art show planning, and upcoming actions, but no formal approvals, denials, or votes on those items were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Library Trustees

The board approved the February 20 minutes and set the next meeting for April 17, 2025. They confirmed Betsy as interim director and established April 4, 2025 as the deadline for director‑search applications. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes of February 20, 2025
• Scheduled next regular meeting for April 17, 2025
• Appointed Betsy as interim Library Director
• Set director‑search application deadline to April 4, 2025
• Adjourned meeting