Rutland public meetings in 2025

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss an ANR Plan and follow up on a specific site issue. The board will also review minutes from three previous meetings.

• ANR Plan for Mark Elbag, Jr. at 307 Main St.
• Follow-up regarding concrete blocks on Grizzly Dr. at Brintnal Estates

The Board approved the minutes from the October 14, November 20 and December 9 meetings, each by unanimous vote. It unanimously endorsed the ANR application for 307 Main St. to allow a single‑family dwelling. The Board directed staff to email Mr. Blair again to set a date for moving the concrete blocks on Grizzly Dr. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:09 p.m.

• Approved October 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved November 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved December 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 307 Main St. (unanimous)
• Directed staff to email Mr. Blair to set a date for moving concrete blocks (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:09 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will be present for public hearings regarding street acceptance requests. These hearings are being conducted by the Select Board.

• Street acceptance requests for Woodside Avenue
• Street acceptance requests for Pioneer Circle
• Street acceptance requests for Arrowhead Way

The Rutland Planning Board met jointly with the Select Board to hold street acceptance hearings for Woodside Avenue, Pioneer Circle, and Lindsay Lane. Board members answered questions from the Select Board but did not take any formal actions. A motion to adjourn was made by Dick Williams, seconded by Tim Nahrwold, and passed unanimously at 6:38 PM.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Select Board

The Select Board and Board of Public Works will hold public hearings regarding the acceptance of three streets. The board will also vote on a liquor license for Mito Restaurant and a tuition reimbursement letter for the firefighter union.

• Street acceptance requests for Arrowhead Way, Woodside Ave., and Pioneer Circle
• Liquor license approval for Mito Restaurant at 79 Main St.
• Firefighter Union side letter regarding paramedic school tuition reimbursement
• 2026 annual license renewals for Common Victualler and Auto Dealer
• Water and sewer abatement request

The board unanimously approved the Treasury Warrant, amended prior meeting minutes, and released executive session minutes. After public hearings, it accepted portions of Arrowhead Way, Woodside Avenue, and Pioneer Circle as town ways. It also issued a liquor license to Mito Restaurant and denied a water and sewer abatement request.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 26-13 (unanimous)
• Amended September 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved release of Executive Session minutes (Nov 24 & Dec 8) (unanimous)
• Accepted Arrowhead Way portion as public way (unanimous)
• Accepted Woodside Avenue portions as public way (unanimous)
• Accepted Pioneer Circle as public way (unanimous)
• Issued liquor license to Mito Restaurant, 79 Main St (unanimous)
• Denied water & sewer abatement request (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to decide whether to lay out Arrowhead Way as a public way, which would allow the Town to acquire the roadway and related easements. The meeting will be held at the Rutland Public Library and streamed online.

• Public hearing to consider laying out Arrowhead Way as a public way
• Consideration of acquiring fee to and/or easements for Arrowhead Way
• Meeting to be held at Rutland Public Library, 280 Main St.
• Remote attendance available via Zoom and telephone
• Plan titled 'Definitive Plan, Bear Hill II, Rutland, Massachusetts' dated October 17, 2006

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will meet on December 22, 2025, to consider laying out Pioneer Circle as a public way. The meeting will be held at the Rutland Public Library and will include options for in-person and remote attendance.

• Public meeting to consider laying out Pioneer Circle as a public way
• Meeting to be held at Rutland Public Library, 280 Main St.
• Meeting to be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 6:15 P.M.
• Public hearing on the street acceptance request for Pioneer Circle
• Meeting to be held pursuant to MGL Chapter 82 §22

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will hold a public meeting on Dec. 22, 2025 at 6:15 p.m. to consider a petition to lay out Woodside Ave. (Station 0+8.58 to 12+50) as a public way. The request is submitted by Brice Estates, Inc. and references the Amended Definitive Plan dated March 28, 2014. If approved, the town may acquire fee simple and related easements by purchase, gift, or eminent domain. The meeting will be open in person at the Rutland Public Library and via Zoom.

• Consider petition to lay out Woodside Ave. (Station 0+8.58 to 12+50) as a public way
• Review street acceptance request from Brice Estates, Inc. referencing the 2014 Amended Definitive Plan
• Discuss potential acquisition of fee simple and related easements for the roadway
• Public hearing scheduled for Dec. 22, 2025, 6:15 p.m. at Rutland Public Library with remote Zoom access
• No monetary contracts or fees are listed in the agenda

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will meet on Dec. 18, 2025 to review several follow‑up items. Items include a site‑plan review, an update on the DLTA grant, planning and training opportunities, and a discussion of lot‑size requirements. No specific decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Site plan review follow‑up
• DLTA grant follow‑up
• Planning and training opportunities follow‑up
• Lot size discussion

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the warrant and make recommendations for a Special Town Meeting scheduled for January 5, 2026. The body will also receive a general overview of the FY2027 budget and discuss committee bylaws.

• Review of Special Town Meeting warrant for January 5, 2026
• Discussion of Finance Committee Bylaw language
• Review of Town Counsel response regarding a DESE letter
• FY2027 Budget overview from the Acting Town Administrator
• Selection of a representative for the February 24, 2026, WRSD budget meeting

The committee approved the December 4 minutes unanimously. It voted 4-2 to table its recommendation on three street acceptance articles until the Select Board decides on December 22. All members confirmed they will attend the joint FY27 budget meeting on January 8. Darren Ruchala was chosen to represent the Finance Committee at the February 24 WRSD budget meeting.

• Approved December 4 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled recommendation on three street acceptance requests (4-2)
• Confirmed attendance at joint FY27 budget meeting (all members)
• Selected Darren Ruchala to attend WRSD budget meeting (unanimous)
• Agreed to further consider Finance Committee bylaw revisions (no vote)
• Committed to advocate for a budget override at the January 8 joint meeting

Town Charter Committee

The Town Charter Committee will meet to approve minutes from October 30, 2025. The primary purpose of the meeting is to continue discussions regarding the Town Charter.

• Approval of October 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• Continued discussion on Town Charter

The committee approved the October 30 meeting minutes. Members reached consensus to delete redundant language from Section 6‑3 because it already exists in the bylaws. The committee decided to keep Article IX on Town Elections unchanged and determined that a periodic by‑law review section is not needed.

• Approved October 30 meeting minutes (consensus)
• Removed redundant language from Section 6‑3 (consensus)
• Retained Article IX – Town Elections as is (no changes)
• Decided no periodic by‑law review section is needed (consensus)

Agricultural Commission

The Rutland Agricultural Commission will review follow‑up items for the Glenwood Greenhouse and the Brintnal Estates open space account, and receive a report on the Halloween "Trunk or Treat" event. It will also consider attendance at the Agricultural Round Table in Barre, MA, and plans for a holiday dinner. The meeting includes routine approval of minutes and standard procedural items.

• Follow‑up on Glenwood Greenhouse
• Brintnal Estates open space account
• Report on Halloween "Trunk or Treat" event
• Attendance at Agricultural Round Table in Barre, MA
• Holiday dinner planning

The commission approved a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:14 PM. Members reported that the Glenwood Greenhouse will be moved in spring to correct a ramp overlap. Natalie will send a thank‑you note to Red Apple Farm and the commission scheduled its annual holiday dinner for Jan 20 2026 at Harvest Grille. Dick is working to allocate funds to the correct account.

• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)
• Planned relocation of Glenwood Greenhouse in spring
• Natalie assigned to write thank‑you note to Red Apple Farm
• Scheduled annual holiday dinner for 1/20/26 at Harvest Grille
• Dick assigned to allocate funds to correct account

Events Committee

The Rutland Events Committee will approve meeting minutes from Oct. 8 and Nov. 12, review several ongoing community events such as the Concert Series 2026, Festival of Trees, Sock Hop, Library 25th Anniversary, Community Expo, Earth Day clean up, and the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. New business includes discussion of gazebo changes, email and Facebook correspondence, and setting the next meeting date. Public comments are also scheduled.

• Approval of meeting minutes for Oct. 8 and Nov. 12
• Concert Series 2026
• Festival of Trees
• Gazebo changes
• Earth Day clean up

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting, with a unanimous vote. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved 10/8/25 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider an amendment to the Order of Conditions for Brice Estates, Inc. on Woodside Avenue. The commission will also follow up on the Brice Estates enforcement order and conduct a site walk with MassDEP. Additional discussion will cover potential forest management on town‑owned properties, possible new language on dumpsters in special conditions, and the start of drafting wetland regulations.

• Public Hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave.
• Follow Up – Brice Estates Enforcement Order & Site Walk with MassDEP
• Discuss potential forest management on town‑owned properties
• Review special conditions and consider adding language regarding dumpsters
• Begin drafting wetland regulations

The commission approved the minutes from the Dec 2, 2025 meeting. It voted to continue the Brice Estates public hearing to Jan 6, 2026. The commission asked staff to draft a letter to the Select Board about a possible forestry‑management role and set Jan 24, 2026 for a winter seed‑sowing event at the library. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes of Dec 2, 2025 (3 yeas, 2 abstains)
• Continued Brice Estates public hearing to Jan 6, 2026 (5 yeas)
• Directed staff to draft letter to Select Board on forestry‑management role
• Scheduled winter seed‑sowing event at Library for Jan 24, 2026
• Adjourned meeting (5 yeas)

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission will review a list of town-owned properties for potential use and discuss a revised commission charge following a joint meeting with the Select Board.

• Discussion of town-owned property inventory for potential town use
• Review of revised commission charge
• Discussion on hiring a company to layout bounds for Harmony Place
• DPW update on RDIC property lighting

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission voted unanimously to approve the minutes from November 6 (as amended), November 19, November 24, and December 8, 2025. The commission then moved to adjourn the meeting, which was approved unanimously at 6:53 p.m. No other actions were formally decided during this session.

• Approved November 6, 2025 minutes (as amended) – unanimous
• Approved November 19, 2025 minutes – unanimous
• Approved November 24, 2025 minutes – unanimous
• Approved December 8, 2025 minutes – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting at 6:53 p.m. – unanimous

Board of Assessors

The Rutland Board of Assessors will approve the meeting minutes from November 2025 and discuss several old‑business items, including a letter to 198 Pommogussett Rd and the status of Chapter Land. New‑business items include setting the tax rate at 13.87, approving exemptions and Chapter Land, and confirming the selection of a new town accountant and administrator. The meeting will also move to an executive session before reconvening in open session.

• Tax rate set at 13.87
• Approval of exemptions
• Approval of Chapter Land
• Selection of new town accountant and new town administrator
• Approval of letter to 198 Pommogussett Rd

The Board approved the meeting minutes unanimously. The town tax rate was set at 13.87. The Board approved exemptions for veterans, qualifying widows and other categories, and approved Chapter Land applications. The Board selected a new town administrator and a new town accountant, and then moved to an executive session.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Set tax rate at 13.87
• Approved veterans and qualifying widows exemptions
• Approved Chapter Land applications
• Selected new town administrator (to start Jan) and new town accountant
• Mailed form list and 3 ABC's by Dec 31 (planned)
• Adjourned open session and entered executive session
• Adjourned executive session at 9:22 AM

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss security and conservation plans for the Rutland Prison Camp cell block and root cellar. Members will also review progress on stone wall repairs and documentation of scenic roads.

• Preservation and security of the prison camp cell block and root cellar
• Stone wall repair progress on Brintnal Drive
• Documentation of stone walls along designated town scenic roads
• USA Semiquincentennial collaboration and ideas
• Historic property inventory updates

The commission approved the November 18, 2025 meeting minutes, with four members voting aye and one abstaining. It unanimously approved sending an email to the Select Board about the prison camp preservation plan. It also unanimously approved using the commission’s website and flyer for upcoming information sessions. Finally, the commission unanimously approved a letter authorizing stone‑wall modifications and outlining future fines.

• Approve November 18 minutes – Lynn, Peter, Lindsay, Michele aye; Mason abstains
• Authorize email to Select Board on prison camp preservation – unanimous aye
• Authorize website and flyer for prison camp info sessions – unanimous aye
• Approve letter for stone‑wall modifications and future fine recommendations – unanimous aye

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue a public hearing on Stormwater Rules & Regulations. The board will also consider street acceptance requests and subdivision rule revisions.

• Public hearing on Stormwater Rules & Regulations
• Street acceptance recommendations for Arrowhead Way, Pioneer Circle, and Woodside Avenue
• Request to rescind Karen Way (Paper Street)
• Discussion on revising subdivision rules for street trees, street lights, and granite curb inlets
• Request for 5 additional Local Planning Assistance (LPA) hours for the street map

The Board unanimously adopted the draft stormwater rules and regulations. It approved field changes allowing street trees to be planted on private property or open space for Arrowhead Way, Woodside Avenue, and Pioneer Circle by May 31 2026. The Board also approved minor modifications permitting paved curbing instead of granite curbing for those streets (4‑1 vote). Additional actions included declaring a stone‑wall violation resolved, approving five LPA hours, and appointing Tim Nahrwold as the Board clerk.

• Adopted stormwater rules & regulations (unanimous)
• Approved field change for Arrowhead Way street trees (by May 31 2026) (unanimous)
• Approved field change for Woodside Ave. & Pioneer Circle street trees (by May 31 2026) (unanimous)
• Granted paved‑curbing modification for Arrowhead Way (4‑1)
• Granted paved‑curbing modification for Woodside Ave. & Pioneer Circle (4‑1)
• Declared stone‑wall violation on Brintnal Dr. resolved (unanimous)
• Approved 5 LPA hours for street map (unanimous)
• Nominated Tim Nahrwold as Planning Board clerk (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Rutland Library Board of Trustees will meet to review reports and discuss a range of topics, including cable and meeting‑space fee upgrades for the Blair area, building maintenance and budget matters, and the library's participation in MASSCAT. Additional items include upcoming events, an Eagle Scout project, policy and staff issues, building security improvements such as a new light pole, and the impact of half‑day school schedules.

• Cable/meeting space/fees upgrades to Blair
• Building maintenance and budget review
• MASSCAT participation
• Eagle Scout Project
• Building security improvements, including a light pole

The board approved the November secretary’s report, the director’s report, and the children’s director’s report. The town voted to release and transfer almost $36,000 of unused funds for library-related warrants, removing the need for a waiver. No other substantive actions were decided; the board discussed maintenance, policy drafts, and upcoming events.

• Approved secretary’s November report (motion moved by Shelley, seconded by Anita)
• Approved director’s November report (motion moved by Jean, seconded by Ruth)
• Approved children’s director’s November report (motion moved by Tressa, seconded by Rich)
• Town approved transfer of nearly $36,000 for library warrants (vote on Nov 20)

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development & Industrial Commission will hold a joint meeting with the Select Board. The agenda item is a discussion of the commission’s charge and the projects it plans to pursue. No decisions are listed; the meeting is for informational and planning purposes.

• Joint meeting with Select Board to discuss the commission’s charge and proposed projects

The RDIC and Select Board agreed to take additional time to review the commission’s statutory charge and will meet again in February to draft a cohesive charge and direction. A motion to adjourn the meeting was passed unanimously. No other formal actions were taken.

• Decided to reconvene in February to draft a cohesive RDIC charge (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will consider several action items, including approving and signing the contract for Town Administrator Heather Butler. The board will also sign a warrant for a Special Town Meeting on January 5, 2026, and approve the acceptance of an easement for Lindsay Lane. Additional items include directing the RDIC after the Economic Development Commission’s dissolution, extending a historic grant, and renewing 2026 licenses for common victuallers, auto dealers, and liquor sellers.

• Approve & sign Town Administrator contract for Heather Butler
• Sign warrant for Special Town Meeting on Jan 5, 2026
• Sign acceptance of easement for Lindsay Lane
• Provide direction to the RDIC after Economic Development Commission dissolution
• Approve 2026 annual license renewals (common victualler, auto dealer, liquor)

The Board voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting to open session at 6:13 PM. Members expressed comfort with the side letter to the firefighter collective bargaining agreement and instructed Deputy Fire Chief Ryan Quinn to obtain union signatures, with the Board to sign it at the next meeting. The revised contract for pending Town Administrator Heather Butler had been approved by Town Counsel and was acceptable to the Board, but no vote on that contract was recorded.

• Motion to adjourn to open session approved unanimously (6:13 PM)
• Board expressed comfort with side letter to firefighter collective bargaining agreement (no vote recorded)
• Deputy Fire Chief Ryan Quinn tasked to obtain union signatures on side letter (no vote recorded)

Select Board

The Select Board will consider approving and signing the contract for Town Administrator Heather Butler. The board will also sign a warrant for a Special Town Meeting scheduled for January 5, 2026. Additional items include accepting an easement for Lindsay Lane, extending a grant for the Franklin T. Wood House, and approving 2026 annual license renewals for common victualler, auto dealer, and liquor licenses.

• Approve and sign Town Administrator contract for Heather Butler
• Sign warrant for Special Town Meeting on January 5, 2026
• Accept easement for Lindsay Lane as approved on November 20, 2025
• Extend grant agreement for Franklin T. Wood House (Historical Society)
• Approve 2026 annual license renewals (common victualler, auto dealer, liquor)

The board unanimously approved the employment agreement for Heather Butler as Town Administrator beginning Jan 5 2026. It also approved the Special Town Meeting warrant for Jan 5 2026, appointed Randy Jordan to the Development & Industrial Commission, and signed the easement for Lindsay Lane. Additional actions included approving Treasury Warrant 26‑12, adopting several meeting minutes, and approving 2026 licenses for common victuallers, auto dealers and liquor establishments.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 26-12 & payroll PW26-12 (unanimous)
• Approved November 20 Special Town Meeting minutes (Alex abstain, others yea)
• Approved December 1 Tax Classification Hearing minutes (Paul abstain, others yea)
• Appointed Randy Jordan to RDIC until June 30 2028 (unanimous)
• Approved Town Administrator contract for Heather Butler (unanimous)
• Signed Special Town Meeting warrant for Jan 5 2026 (unanimous)
• Accepted and signed easement for Lindsay Lane (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 common victualler, auto dealer and liquor licenses (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The commission agreed the wall modifications, though not restored to original aesthetic, meet the requested changes and the matter can be closed. Lindsay Maus will write a letter to the planning board expressing satisfaction and stressing future procedural compliance. Members also agreed that fines should be collected to deter unauthorized wall alterations.

• Closed the wall modification issue
• Assigned Lindsay Maus to draft a letter to the planning board
• Agreed to collect fines for future unauthorized wall changes

Capital Improvement Planning Committee

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee will discuss funding requests from the Department of Public Works and the Fire Department. The committee will also review the status of requests from other town departments.

• DPW requests from Director Chris Kolofsky
• FD requests from Deputy Chief Ryan Quinn
• Review of minutes from 10/09/2025 meeting
• Discussion of CIPC status and potential new members

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee met and reviewed the capital plan, hearing from the fire chief and DPW director about equipment and facility needs. No formal votes were taken on capital items; the only motions were to accept the previous minutes and to adjourn. The committee also introduced three prospective members.

• Accepted October 9, 2025 minutes (2-0, 1 abstention)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review the language of its own bylaws. The committee will also review a response from Town Counsel concerning a letter received from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) last year.

• Review of Finance Committee Bylaw language
• Review of Town Counsel response regarding DESE letter

The Finance Committee approved minutes from three prior meetings and discussed updates on Town Counsel research and potential bylaw revisions. No substantive decisions were made beyond approving the minutes; the committee agreed to continue discussions on the bylaw and seek guidance from the new Town Administrator.

• Approved minutes of October 23, 2025, as revised (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 6, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 20, 2025 Special Town Meeting (unanimous, Darren abstained)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a final review and approval of a site plan for submission to the CMRPC. The board will also discuss available opportunities regarding the DLTA grant.

• Final review and approval of Site Plan for CMRPC
• Discussion of DLTA Grant opportunities

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will continue a public hearing regarding an amendment to the Order of Conditions for Brice Estates on Woodside Ave. The board will also review drainage revisions for the Route 56 Roadway Project and discuss local land trusts.

• Public Hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave.
• Route 56 Roadway Project: Review drainage revisions at Dam Project on Pommogussett Rd.
• Discussion regarding local land trusts for Town Owned Open Space
• Review of Special Conditions and potential language regarding dumpsters
• Drafting of new Wetland Regulations

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the November 4, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to continue the Brice Estates amendment hearing to December 16, 2025. The board also unanimously approved the updated drainage design for the Route 56 dam project. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved November 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Brice Estates public hearing to Dec 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Route 56 dam drainage plan administrative changes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on tax classification for fiscal year 2026, with a presentation by Principal Assessor Amy Evanowski. The board will then vote to set the tax rate(s) for FY 2026 as required by MGL Chapter 59, §2A and Chapter 40, §56.

• Public hearing on tax classification for FY 2026
• Presentation by Principal Assessor Amy Evanowski
• Vote to set tax rate(s) for FY 2026

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will conduct a public hearing on December 1, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to discuss how the local tax levy for fiscal year 2026 will be divided among the different classes of real property. The Board of Assessors will present data and the fiscal impact of alternative allocations. Residents may attend in person at the Rutland Public Library, 280 Main St., or join remotely via Zoom using the provided link and phone numbers.

• Public hearing on determining percentages of the local tax levy for each property class for FY 2026

The board held a public hearing on the FY2026 tax classification and set the tax rate at $13.87 per $1,000. It adopted a residential factor of 1.0, establishing a single‑residential tax rate. Motions to adopt an open‑space discount, a residential exemption, and a small commercial exemption were each rejected. All votes were unanimous.

• Closed public hearing – unanimous (4 yeas)
• Adopted FY2026 residential factor at 1.0 (single‑residential tax rate) – unanimous (4 yeas)
• Set FY2026 tax rate at $13.87 per $1,000 – unanimous (4 yeas)
• Rejected open‑space discount – unanimous (4 yeas)
• Rejected residential exemption – unanimous (4 yeas)
• Rejected small commercial exemption – unanimous (4 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous (4 yeas)

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will hold a public hearing to review draft stormwater rules and regulations, with a goal of adopting them by December 31, 2025. The board will also receive an update on the ANR plan for Stephen Miller at 2 Meadowbrook Circle. A follow‑up on a scenic road bylaw violation and related fines will be discussed. Finally, a citizens petition for street acceptance requests on Arrowhead Way, Woodside Ave., and Pioneer Circle will be considered.

• Public hearing – review draft stormwater rules & regulations (adoption target Dec 31 2025)
• ANR Plan – Stephen Miller, 2 Meadowbrook Circle
• Scenic Road Bylaw violation – follow‑up on compensatory action and fines
• Citizens petition – street acceptance requests for Arrowhead Way, Woodside Ave., Pioneer Circle

The board unanimously approved the September 23 and October 28 meeting minutes. It voted to continue the public hearing on the new stormwater rules and regulations to December 9, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. The board also unanimously directed staff to obtain permission to seek Town Counsel’s advice on placing fines as a lien for the stone‑wall violation. Members agreed to work on the street‑acceptance punch list at the next meeting.

• Approved September 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 28, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued stormwater public hearing to Dec 9, 2025 6:30 p.m. (unanimous)
• Directed staff to seek Town Counsel guidance on stone‑wall fines (unanimous)
• Agreed to address street‑acceptance punch list at next meeting (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:06 p.m. (unanimous)

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission will discuss Randy Jordan's interest in serving on the commission. The body will vote on whether to recommend his appointment.

• Vote to recommend the appointment of Randy Jordan to the RDIC

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission voted unanimously to recommend Randy Jordan to serve on the RDIC. No other agenda items were considered. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Recommended Randy Jordan for RDIC appointment (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board meeting on November 24, 2025 will approve Treasury Warrant 26-11 & 26-PW11 and the minutes from the November 10 meetings. The board will review the draft policy from the Wachusett Leadership Group. It will consider a one‑day liquor license request for Hardwick Winery’s Jordan Farms turkey event. Additional items include a sewer abatement request, project requests to clean the Civil War monument and complete a gazebo on the town common, and street acceptance petitions for Arrowhead Way, Woodside Ave., and Pioneer Circle.

• Approve Treasury Warrant 26-11 & 26-PW11
• One‑day liquor license request for Hardwick Winery – Jordan Farms turkey event
• Board of Public Works sewer abatement request
• Project requests: clean Civil War monument and complete gazebo on Town Common
• Street acceptance petitions for Arrowhead Way, Woodside Ave., and Pioneer Circle

The Board unanimously approved the Treasury warrant and meeting minutes, and authorized a resident to clean the Civil War monument and improve the Town Common gazebo at no cost to the town. It also approved one‑day liquor licenses for Hardwick Winery at Jordan Dairy Farm and denied a sewer‑abatement request. Additionally, the Board voted to forward plans to make Arrowhead Way, Pioneer Circle, and Woodside Avenue public ways to the Planning Board.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 26-11 (unanimous)
• Approved Executive Session minutes on Treasurer/Collector contract and released them (unanimous)
• Authorized Lou Cornacchioli to clean Civil War monument on Town Common (unanimous)
• Authorized Lou Cornacchioli to improve the Town Common gazebo (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day liquor licenses for Hardwick Winery at Jordan Dairy Farm (unanimous)
• Denied sewer‑abatement request (unanimous)
• Voted intention to lay out Arrowhead Way, Pioneer Circle, and Woodside Avenue as public ways (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board and Board of Public Works will meet to discuss the acceptance of three new streets and requests for town common maintenance. The board will also review a draft policy for the Wachusett Leadership Group and a one-day liquor license.

• Street acceptance requests for Arrowhead Way, Woodside Ave., and Pioneer Circle
• Project requests to clean Civil War Monument and complete Gazebo on Town Common
• One-day liquor license for Hardwick Winery (Jordan Farms Turkey Event)
• Sewer abatement request
• Review of Wachusett Leadership Group draft policy

The Select Board set the starting salary for the tentative Town Administrator at $143,536, kept the severance period at 90 days, added standard "just cause" language, and approved four weeks of vacation. The Board instructed the Acting Town Administrator to send the revised contract to Town Counsel for review, with signing scheduled for the December 8 meeting. A motion to adjourn to open session passed unanimously.

• Approved starting salary $143,536 for Town Administrator
• Kept severance timeframe at 90 days
• Added standard "just cause" language to contract
• Approved four weeks of vacation for Town Administrator
• Directed revisions to be sent to Town Counsel
• Scheduled final contract signing for December 8
• Motion to adjourn to open session passed unanimously

Finance Committee

The Rutland Finance Committee will hold a new business item to discuss any topics related to the upcoming Special Town Meeting. No specific proposals or decisions are listed, and the discussion is optional and as needed. The meeting will take place at Glenwood Elementary School, 65 Glenwood Rd., at 5:30 p.m. on November 20, 2025.

• Any discussion related to the Special Town Meeting (as needed)

The Rutland Finance Committee met on November 20, 2025 with five members present and two absent. Members agreed to list the number of yea and nay votes next to future warrant recommendations. The committee then moved to adjourn, which passed unanimously at 5:48 PM.

• Agreed to list yea and nay vote counts next to future warrant recommendations (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will meet on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the gymnasium of Glenwood Elementary School, 65 Glenwood Rd. The agenda lists a New Business item allowing discussion of any topics related to the Special Town Meeting, as needed. No other specific items are listed, and the Board may address additional matters permitted by law.

• Any discussion related to Special Town Meeting (as needed)

The Board opened the meeting before the Special Town Meeting, discussed no business, and adjourned unanimously at the close of the Town Meeting. No substantive actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Council on Aging

The Rutland Council on Aging will convene to discuss feedback from Town Administrator candidate interviews and review reports on Elder Services and Pen Pal programs. The meeting is scheduled for November 20, 2025.

• Approval of October 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Feedback on Town Administrator candidate interviews
• Director's Report
• Elder Services Board Report
• Pen Pal Update

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting to call a Special Town Meeting following the receipt of a citizen's petition. The board will open and close the warrant for the meeting scheduled for January 5, 2026, at Naquag Elementary School.

• Call a Special Town Meeting for January 5, 2026, at 6:30 P.M. at Naquag Elementary School
• Opening and closing of the Special Town Meeting warrant

The Select Board voted to call a Special Town Meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. in Naquag Elementary School. The motion passed unanimously. The board then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved Special Town Meeting for Jan 5 2026 at Naquag Elementary School (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development & Industrial Commission will discuss concerns about board operations and decorum raised in two emails from a commission member. It will also consider a resident’s interest in serving on the commission. No formal actions are listed on the agenda.

• Address concerns about board operations & decorum (raised in two member emails)
• Resident interest in serving on the RDIC

The commission heard public comment from Randy Jordan about serving on the RDIC and scheduled a November 24 meeting to consider his appointment. Members discussed concerns raised by Michele Van Reet regarding meeting conduct and agreed to seek Select Board approval to market the Town-owned property on Route 68. They also planned a joint meeting with the Select Board in December to re‑evaluate the commission’s charge. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)
• Scheduled November 24 meeting at 5:30 PM to recommend Randy Jordan’s appointment
• Agreed to seek Select Board approval to market Rutland Heights property on Route 68
• Planned joint meeting with Select Board in December to re‑evaluate commission charge

Historical Commission

The Rutland Historical Commission will convene to review meeting minutes and discuss the management of graffiti in prison camp structures. The board will also review progress on stone wall repairs along Brintnal Drive and scenic roads.

• Review and approve meeting minutes
• Discuss graffiti in prison camp structures
• Review stone wall repair progress on Brintnal Drive
• Discuss documentation of stone walls along scenic roads
• Update on USA Semiquincentennial ideas

The Rutland Historical Commission discussed the long-term management of the prison camp site, where DCR's Dan Clark proposed demolishing the cells and erecting a concrete wall due to safety and graffiti concerns. The commission disagreed with this plan and decided to launch a 'Save Our Structures' campaign, including a website, logo, and public info sessions, to seek alternative solutions. They also approved minutes from previous meetings and discussed stone wall repairs and a potential USA250 event.

• Approved minutes for 10/14 and 10/25 meetings (unanimous, Lynn abstained)
• Launched 'Save Our Structures' campaign to oppose demolition of prison camp cells
• Planned two info/brainstorming sessions in late January 2026
• Decided to plan one event between July 5-9, 2026 for USA250
• Agreed to look into making a calendar with photos next year

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council will review and vote on grant applications for fiscal year 2025. The body will also discuss and vote on the Council Secretary position and receive a treasurer's report on outstanding grants.

• Review and voting on FY25 Grant Applications
• Discussion and vote on Council Secretary position
• Treasurer’s Report and update on outstanding grants

Conservation Commission

The Rutland Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider an amendment to the Order of Conditions for Brice Estates, Inc. on Woodside Avenue, continuing from the November 4 meeting. Commissioners will review drainage revisions for the Route 56 roadway project at the Dam Project on Pommogussett Road. The board will discuss town‑owned open space with local land trusts and follow up on the Brice Estates enforcement order and a site walk with MassDEP. Additional items include reviewing special conditions related to dumpsters and beginning draft wetland regulations.

• Public hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave. (continued from Nov 4)
• Route 56 Roadway Project – review drainage revisions at Dam Project on Pommogussett Rd.
• Discussion of town‑owned open space with local land trusts
• Follow‑up on Brice Estates enforcement order and site walk with MassDEP
• Review special conditions and consider adding language regarding dumpsters

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct interviews with candidates for Town Administrator over two evenings on November 12th and 13th. The interviews will be recorded for future broadcast on YouTube and will not be livestreamed.

• Interviews for Town Administrator position
• Candidate: Heather Butler (6:15 PM - 7:00 PM)
• Meetings will be recorded for YouTube broadcast
• Interviews will not be livestreamed or on Zoom

The board interviewed three candidates for Town Administrator and deliberated on their qualifications. After discussion, the board unanimously voted to extend an offer to Heather Butler and begin contract negotiations. The motion to offer was made by Leah Whiteman, seconded by Paul Mattson, and passed with all five members voting yea.

• Offer Town Administrator position to Heather Butler (unanimous vote)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous vote)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will review reports from the Secretary, Director, and Children's department. The board is scheduled to discuss building maintenance, budget impacts, and building security.

• Cable, meeting space, and fee upgrades to Blair
• MASSCAT
• Eagle Scout Project
• Building security
• Budget, impact, hours, and capital plan

The board approved the October reports from the secretary, the director, and the children's director. No other motions were adopted; the board discussed old‑business items such as cable space agreements, building maintenance, and upcoming events, but recorded no decisions. The next meeting is set for December 9, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

• Secretary's October report approved
• Director's October report approved
• Children's director's October report approved

Events Committee

The Rutland Events Committee will discuss several scheduled community activities, including the 2026 Concert Series, Trunk or Treat, Festival of Trees, Earth Day clean‑up, and the Library's 25th anniversary. Financial reports for the town will also be reviewed. The meeting may include any additional items raised within 48 hours of the session.

• Concert Series 2026
• Trunk or Treat
• Festival of Trees
• Earth Day Clean up
• Library 25th Anniversary

The Events Committee held its November 12, 2025 meeting and took no substantive actions on program items. The only formal action was a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously. All other agenda topics were discussed or noted for future follow‑up.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will continue its discussion of site plan reviews for subdivision proposals. A guest speaker, Gabe Trevor from CMRPC, will present information about a DLTA grant opportunity. The meeting will include a brief public comment period limited to ten minutes. The session will conclude with adjournment.

• Continued discussion of subdivision site plan reviews
• Guest speaker presentation on DLTA grant opportunity
• Public comment limited to 10 minutes

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting to conduct interviews for the position of Town Administrator. These interviews are scheduled over two evenings, November 12th and 13th.

• Interview with candidate Nelson Mui (6:15 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.)
• Interview with candidate Angie Lopes Ellison (7:30 P.M. – 8:15 P.M.)

The Select Board interviewed three Town Administrator candidates—Nelson Mui and Angeline Lopes Ellison—on November 12 and 13. No hiring decision was made during this meeting. The Board then moved to adjourn, which passed unanimously at 8:24 P.M.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (8:24 P.M.)

Select Board

The Select Board and Board of Public Works will meet to discuss the adoption of a Social Equity Policy and a revised Wage Classification Schedule. The board will also review the Town Administrator interview process and a contract for the Treasurer/Collector.

• Consideration and adoption of Host Community Agreement Social Equity Policy
• Review and adoption of revised Wage Classification Schedule
• Stormwater abatement request for 86 Maple Ave.
• Review and signing of FY2026 Wachusett Earth Day Contract
• Approval and signing of Treasurer/Collector contract for Nicholas George

The Rutland Select Board unanimously approved the contract for Treasurer/Collector Nicholas George. It also adopted a social equity policy for marijuana host community agreements, granted a stormwater abatement for 86 Maple Ave, signed a letter of support for Wachusett Greenways, and signed the MOU for Wachusett Earthday Recycling Center. Additionally, the board adopted a revised wage classification schedule effective FY2027.

• Approved Treasurer/Collector contract for Nicholas George (unanimous)
• Adopted social equity policy for marijuana Host Community Agreements (unanimous)
• Granted stormwater abatement for 86 Maple Ave (unanimous)
• Signed letter of support for Wachusett Greenways (unanimous)
• Signed MOU for Wachusett Earthday Recycling Center FY2026 (unanimous)
• Adopted revised wage classification schedule effective FY2027 (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Michael Pantos, Jr. from Capital Improvement Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Warrant 26-10 and payroll PW26-10 (unanimous)

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will approve the Treasury Warrant 26-10 and 26-PW10 and adopt the meeting minutes from October. The board will discuss the Social Equity Policy and consider a letter of support for the Mass Central Rail Trail. It will review a stormwater abatement request for 86 Maple Ave and a FY2026 Earth Day contract. The board will also approve and sign the Treasurer/Collector contract for Nicholas George.

• Approve Treasury Warrant 26-10 & 26-PW10
• Approve and sign Treasurer/Collector contract for Nicholas George
• Request letter of support for Mass Central Rail Trail (Wachusett Greenways)
• Stormwater Abatement Request – 86 Maple Ave (Rutland Heights Property)
• Review and sign Wachusett Earth Day contract for FY2026

The Select Board reviewed the contract for Treasurer/Collector Nicholas George, expressed no concerns, and approved and signed the contract. No other substantive actions were taken in this meeting.

• Approved Treasurer/Collector contract for Nicholas George

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hold an initial discussion of the WRSD FY2027 budget with Dr. Jim Reilly, the superintendent. The committee will also consider any discussion needed before the Special Town Meeting scheduled for November 20. Any other business may be addressed at the end of the meeting.

• WRSD FY2027 Budget – Initial discussion with Dr. Jim Reilly (Superintendent)
• Special Town Meeting – Any discussion needed prior to November 20 meeting
• Any other business

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the October 14 and October 16 meetings. They scheduled the next Finance Committee meeting for December 4 to review the committee bylaw. Members agreed to ask Town Counsel about the DESE letter before the upcoming Town Meeting and requested that the town administrator present five years of FY2027 budget figures. They also decided that questions on elected‑official stipends will be referred to Town Meeting residents. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved October 14 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 16 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for Dec 4 to review Finance Committee bylaw
• Agreed to ask Town Counsel about DESE letter before Town Meeting
• Requested Seth Knipe present five years of FY2027 budget figures
• Decided response to stipend questions: refer decision to Town Meeting floor
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development & Industrial Commission will first approve the minutes from its September 4, 2025 meeting. It will receive an update on the Harmony Place project and review a request for proposals for tree clearing and a forest management plan on town property. The commission will then discuss budget requests for fiscal year 2027 before addressing any other business.

• Approve September 4, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update – Harmony Place
• Request for Proposals – Tree Clearing on Town Property/Forest Management Plan
• FY2027 Budget Requests
• Any Other Business

The commission unanimously approved the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes and later unanimously adjourned. Members decided that Tim Nahrwold will contact forester Ross Hubacz about tree clearing and will leave the harvesting to the Agricultural Commission. They agreed to schedule a joint meeting with the Select Board to discuss marketing the Town‑owned Heights parcels. The board also agreed to forward a $25,000 FY2027 General Fund request for cleaning up Town‑owned properties to the Town Administrator.

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Tim Nahrwold to contact forester Ross Hubacz regarding tree clearing
• Leave tree harvesting to the Agricultural Commission
• Schedule joint meeting with Select Board to discuss marketing Town‑owned properties
• Send $25,000 FY2027 budget request for property cleanup to Town Administrator
• Tim to call Laural Adams to clarify Harmony Place contact
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will approve the October 2025 meeting minutes. They will consider new business items, including finalizing low‑value land for state transfer, preparing for a data bridge and tax billing, and confirming the tax classification hearing scheduled for December 1, 2025. Additional agenda items include discussion of a letter to 198 POMMOGUSSETT RD., approval of exemptions and chapter land, and a presentation by the interim town administrator.

• Approve October 2025 meeting minutes
• Sign release of lien (old business)
• Finalize low‑value land for state transfer
• Set tax classification hearing for Dec 1 2025
• Discuss letter to 198 POMMOGUSSETT RD.

The Board approved the October 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. Members signed the release of lien for the low‑value land process. The Board approved several tax exemption applications, denied one senior 41C application, and approved all Chapter Land applications. The Board voted all in favor to let the interim town administrator negotiate a three‑year contract for the town assessor.

• Approved October 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Signed release of lien for low‑value land (all members signed)
• Approved tax exemptions under clauses 22E, 37A, 17D, 41C; denied one senior 41C application
• Approved all Chapter Land applications (all members signed)
• Authorized interim town administrator to negotiate a three‑year contract for the town assessor (all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Rutland Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on an amendment to the Order of Conditions for Brice Estates, Inc. at Woodside Avenue, continuing from the October 21 meeting. The commission will also follow up on the Brice Estates enforcement order with a site walk alongside MassDEP, review Attorney General comments on the Wetlands Bylaw, and address an alleged illicit trash‑hauler discharge into wetlands at the Rutland Heights property. Additionally, staff will begin drafting new wetland regulations.

• Public Hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave.
• Follow Up – Brice Estates Enforcement Order & Site Walk with MassDEP
• Wetlands Bylaw – Review Comments from Attorney General’s Office
• Illicit Discharge – Trash hauler truck discharge into wetlands, erosion control barrier concerns at Rutland Heights property
• Begin Drafting Wetland Regulations

The commission approved the October 21 minutes unanimously. It voted to continue the Brice Estates public hearing to November 18. The board decided to place the dumpster overflow concern on the next agenda for possible rule changes. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved October 21 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Brice Estates hearing to Nov 18, 2025 (unanimous)
• Added dumpster overflow issue to next agenda for rule review
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Charter Committee

The committee will vote to approve the minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting. It will continue its discussion of the town charter. Any other business may be considered if raised within 48 hours of the meeting.

• Approval of meeting minutes from October 16, 2025
• Continued discussion on the Town Charter
• Any other business not anticipated within 48 hours

The committee approved the meeting minutes. A 6‑5 vote added a member removal provision to Article VI of the charter. The committee also reviewed changes to Articles III and VII and discussed administrative organization, but no votes were recorded on those items.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Michelle, seconded by Sondra)
• Added member removal provision to Article VI (vote 6-5)

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will discuss five items: stormwater rules and regulations with Weston & Sampson; the town planner job description with the acting town administrator; a scenic road bylaw violation concerning a stone wall on Brintnal Dr; recommendations for street acceptance requests noted on the Town Meeting warrant; and the possible rescheduling of the November 11 meeting that falls on Veteran’s Day.

• Stormwater Rules & Regulations – discussion with Weston & Sampson
• Town Planner Job Description – discussion with Acting Town Administrator
• Scenic Road Bylaw Violation – stone wall on Brintnal Dr
• Street Acceptance Recommendations – outcome of requests on Town Meeting warrant
• Potential rescheduling of November 11 meeting (Veteran’s Day)

The Board voted unanimously to send a letter to C.B. Blair Development requiring the stone wall on Brintnal Dr. be extended within 5 feet of the driveway, fully restored within two weeks, and supplemented with 50 matching stones. Compensatory fines will continue until the restoration is approved. The Board also approved the revised Town Planner job description and will post the vacancy, and it moved the next regular meeting to November 12.

• Unanimous vote to send a letter to C.B. Blair requiring wall extension, restoration within 2 weeks, and addition of 50 stones
• Unanimous vote to continue compensatory fines until the wall restoration is approved
• Approved revised Town Planner job description and will proceed with posting the position
• Decided to reschedule the next regular meeting to November 12

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold a joint meeting with the Planning Board. The body will discuss the restoration of a stone wall at or near 71 Brintnal Drive in relation to the town's Scenic Road Bylaw.

• Joint meeting with Planning Board regarding stone wall restoration at 71 Brintnal Drive

Select Board

The Select Board will consider a human resources study from the Central Mass. Regional Planning Commission and a one-day liquor license for Seven Saws Brewing. The board will also discuss the Town Planner job description and a social equity policy for host community agreements.

• Sign final warrant for November 20th Special Town Meeting
• Review Human Resources Study report by Central Mass. Regional Planning Commission
• One-day liquor license application for Seven Saws Brewing (Wachusett Youth Football Event)
• Letter of interest from Mason Burke for the Historical Commission
• Consider letter of support for Municipal Empowerment Act legislation

The Select Board approved the Special Town Meeting warrant for November 20, 2025 with a 4‑1 vote. It also approved a one‑day liquor license for Seven Saws Brewing on November 8, 2025, appointed Mason Burke to the Historical Commission, and signed a letter of support for the Municipal Empowerment Act. The Board agreed to hold the tax classification hearing on December 1, 2025.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 26‑9 & payroll PW26‑9 (unanimous)
• Approved October 14, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous, Harry Sechman abstained)
• Appointed Mason Burke to Historical Commission (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Seven Saws Brewing on Nov 8, 2025 (unanimous)
• Signed letter of support for the Municipal Empowerment Act (unanimous)
• Signed Special Town Meeting warrant for Nov 20, 2025 (4‑1)
• Board agreed to schedule tax classification hearing for Dec 1, 2025

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is meeting for a site visit to review a stone wall. The commission will discuss the condition of the wall at the boundary of 71 Brintnal Drive in relation to the Scenic Roads Bylaw.

• Site visit to view stone wall at 71 Brintnal Drive regarding Scenic Roads Bylaw

Commission members noted that the stone wall appears dilapidated, too wide, and needs smaller fill stones and an extension toward the driveway. They identified an educational opportunity about historic stone walls. The commission will bring recommendations to the Planning Board at its next meeting. No formal actions were approved or denied.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet jointly with the Select Board to review proposed articles on the draft warrant for a Special Town Meeting. The committee intends to make recommendations on these articles.

• Review of proposed articles on the Draft Warrant for Special Town Meeting
• Recommendations on Special Town Meeting articles

The committee gave unanimous recommendations for Articles 1‑5 covering prior bills and cash transfers. It declined to act on Article 6 (elected officials' salaries) with a 6‑1 vote and approved a 90% raise‑and‑appropriate budget adjustment in Article 7 by a 4‑3 vote. Additional unanimous approvals included funding for a police officer, fire hydrants, a street sweeper, and other public‑safety and infrastructure projects.

• Recommended Article 1 (pay prior fiscal year bills) – unanimous yea
• Recommended Article 2 (transfer Free Cash to General Stabilization Fund) – unanimous yea
• No action on Article 6 (salary restoration for elected officials) – 6‑1 vote
• Recommended Article 7 (adjust FY2026 budget to 90% raise & appropriate) – 4‑3 vote
• Recommended Article 10 (fund 6 months salary for full‑time police officer) – unanimous yea
• Recommended Article 11 (tuition for paramedic school) – 4‑0‑3 vote
• Recommended Article 16 (replace 6 broken fire hydrants, funding changed to Free Cash) – unanimous yea
• Recommended Article 19 (lease‑purchase new street sweeper) – unanimous yea

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will discuss preparations for an upcoming Special Town Meeting. The board will review the Street Acceptance Request for Lindsay Lane as presented on the Town Meeting warrant. No other agenda items are listed.

• Review Street Acceptance Request for Lindsay Lane

Select Board

The Select Board, meeting jointly with the Finance Committee, will continue deliberation on the street acceptance request for Lindsay Lane. The board will review the proposed articles for the draft warrant of an upcoming special town meeting and make recommendations. Additional items may be raised as any other business not anticipated within 48 hours of the meeting.

• Continue deliberation on street acceptance request for Lindsay Lane
• Review proposed articles on the draft warrant for a special town meeting
• Make recommendations on the draft warrant articles
• Any other business not reasonably anticipated within 48 hours of the meeting

The board unanimously adopted the layout of Lindsay Lane as a town way. It placed and gave favorable recommendations on most Special Town Meeting articles, including transfers of free cash to various funds and infrastructure projects. The recommendation to restore elected officials' stipends (Article 6) failed with a 2‑2 vote, while a storage‑closet request (Article 8) passed by a 3‑2 vote.

• Adopt Lindsay Lane layout as public way (unanimous)
• Place & recommend Article 1 (unanimous)
• Place & recommend Article 2 (unanimous)
• Place & recommend Article 3 (unanimous)
• Recommend Article 4 (unanimous)
• Recommendation on Article 6 failed 2‑2
• Recommend Article 8 passed 3‑2
• Recommend Article 10 (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Rutland Library Board will review reports from the Secretary, Director, and Children’s services. It will consider old‑business items such as cable/meeting‑space fees, building‑maintenance budget, MASSCAT, events, and the long‑range plan. New‑business topics include policy, staff issues, incidents, budget impact, building security, and the Little Library project. No specific decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Review reports (Secretary, Director, Children’s)
• Discuss cable/meeting‑space fees (old business)
• Consider building‑maintenance budget (old business)
• Consider policy and staff matters (new business)
• Discuss building security and Little Library (new business)

The Rutland Library Board accepted and approved the September reports from the secretary, the director, and the children’s director. No other motions were decided; the board discussed ongoing items such as cable space, building maintenance, budget concerns, and upcoming events. The meeting adjourned at 8:29 p.m.

• Approved secretary’s September report (motion passed)
• Approved director’s September report (motion passed)
• Approved children’s director’s September report (motion passed)

Agricultural Commission

The Rutland Agricultural Commission will convene to approve meeting minutes and discuss follow-up on the Glenwood Greenhouse and AAWF grant submissions. The body will also address a correction for Brintnal Estates open space fees.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Follow up on Glenwood Greenhouse
• AAWF grant submissions
• Correct account for Brintnal Estates open space fees

Conservation Commission

The Rutland Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several applications, including an amendment to an order of conditions for Brice Estates, Inc. on Woodside Ave and a notice of intent from Mary Elbag for properties on Finn Park Rd. The commission will also consider certificate of compliance requests from Zbigniew Olszewski and Gordon Olin, and discuss follow‑up on the Brice Estates enforcement order, a forest cutting plan for Glenwood Rd, and the drafting of wetland regulations.

• Public Hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave.
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent – Mary Elbag, 20 & 22 Finn Park Rd.
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – Zbigniew Olszewski, 141 Turkey Hill Rd.
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – Gordon Olin, 44 Welch Ave.
• Follow‑up on Brice Estates Enforcement Order

The Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the October 7 meeting, continued the Brice Estates hearing to November 4, and closed the Finn Park Rd hearing. It issued the Order of Conditions with special erosion controls for 20 & 22 Finn Park Rd, and granted Certificates of Compliance for 141 Turkey Hill Rd and 44 Welch Ave. The board also planned a joint site visit with MassDEP for Brice Estates and will contact a forester about the Glenwood Rd forest cutting plan.

• Approved October 7, 2025 minutes (5 yea, 1 abstain)
• Continued Brice Estates hearing to Nov 4, 2025 (unanimous)
• Closed Finn Park Rd hearing (unanimous)
• Issued Order of Conditions for 20 & 22 Finn Park Rd with special erosion controls (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 141 Turkey Hill Rd (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 44 Welch Ave (unanimous)
• Decided to arrange joint site visit with MassDEP for Brice Estates (no vote recorded)
• Planned to contact forester for clarification on Glenwood Rd forest cutting plan (no vote recorded)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold public hearings regarding the acceptance of several residential streets. The board is also seeking action on a town paving contract and a library picnic area project.

• Street Acceptance Request: Arrowhead Way (Stony Brook Estates, Inc.)
• Street Acceptance Request: Lindsay Lane (Brice Estates, Inc.)
• Street Acceptance Request: Pioneer Circle (Brice Estates, Inc.)
• Street Acceptance Request: Woodside Ave. (Brice Estates, Inc.)
• Approval and signing of Town Paving Contract

The Board unanimously voted not to place Arrowhead Way on the Special Town Meeting warrant for street acceptance. For Lindsay Lane, the Board directed staff to consult Town Counsel about a sewer easement discrepancy before further action. A motion to adopt Woodside Avenue as a public way failed with a 2‑2 tie vote.

• Motion to not place Arrowhead Way on STMW warrant – unanimous approval (4 yeas)
• Motion to close Arrowhead Way public hearing – unanimous approval (4 yeas)
• Motion to close Lindsay Lane public hearing – unanimous approval (4 yeas)
• Board directed staff to follow up with Town Counsel on sewer easement issue for Lindsay Lane – action approved
• Motion to close Woodside Ave public hearing – unanimous approval (4 yeas)
• Motion to adopt Woodside Ave as a public way – failed tie vote (2 yeas, 2 nays)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public meeting on October 20, 2025, to consider whether Arrowhead Way shall be laid out as a public way. If approved, the Town would acquire the roadway and related easements through purchase, gift, or eminent domain.

• Public hearing to consider laying out Arrowhead Way as a public way
• Town to acquire fee to and/or easements for Arrowhead Way
• Meeting held at Rutland Public Library, 280 Main St.
• Remote participation available via Zoom and phone
• Meeting ID: 876 7441 8551

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will consider a petition to lay out Lindsay Lane (formerly Lemon Circle) as a public way. The decision will determine whether the town acquires easements, drainage, access, utility or other related rights for the roadway. If approved, the layout will be presented to Town Meeting for acceptance. A public hearing will be held at the Rutland Public Library with remote participation options provided.

• Consideration of laying out Lindsay Lane (formerly Lemon Circle) as a public way
• Review of street acceptance request from Brice Estates, Inc.
• Potential acquisition of easements, drainage, access, utility or related rights for the roadway
• Public hearing scheduled at Rutland Public Library, 280 Main St.
• Remote attendance via Zoom (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674418551) and listed telephone numbers

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will hold a public meeting on October 20, 2025 to decide whether Pioneer Circle should be laid out as a public way. The decision would allow the town to acquire fee simple ownership and related easements for the roadway. The agenda includes a petition from Brice Estates, Inc. for a street acceptance. Residents may attend in person at the Rutland Public Library or join remotely via Zoom.

• Consideration of laying out Pioneer Circle as a public way
• Potential acquisition of fee simple and easements for Pioneer Circle
• Petition from Brice Estates, Inc. for street acceptance of Pioneer Circle
• Public hearing on the street acceptance request
• Remote attendance options provided via Zoom

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public meeting to determine if Woodside Ave. (from Station 0+8.58 to Station 12+50) should be laid out as a public way. If approved by the Board and Town Meeting, the Town would acquire the fee or easements for the roadway and related utilities.

• Public hearing on street acceptance for Woodside Ave. (Station 0+8.58 to 12+50)
• Review of 'Amended Definitive Plan, Brice-Lemon Estates' dated March 28, 2014

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the draft warrant for a Special Town Meeting and discuss the proposed articles to be included. The committee may also consider any other business raised within 48 hours of the meeting. No other specific items are listed.

• Review draft warrant for Special Town Meeting
• Discuss proposed articles for Special Town Meeting
• Consider any other business raised within 48 hours

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the October 2, 2025 meeting. It held an initial discussion of the draft Special Town Meeting warrant, taking informal straw votes on each article but making no formal decisions. Recommendations on the warrant will be finalized at the joint meeting with the Select Board on October 23. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved October 2, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed draft Special Town Meeting warrant articles; no formal votes recorded
• Deferred final recommendations on warrant articles to Oct 23 joint meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will approve the September 18, 2025 meeting minutes. A Director's Report will provide an update on a grant for installing a handicap‑accessible front door. The board will discuss building usage and the status of the Town Administrator search.

• Approval of September 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director's Report: grant for installation of handicap‑accessible front door
• Discussion of building usage
• Status update on Town Administrator search

The meeting consisted of a director's report on insurance issues, a roof leak, and fee discussions for the Senior Center. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled. The next meeting is scheduled for November 20, 2025.

Bylaw Committee

The Rutland Bylaw Committee will review several existing bylaws—including Wetlands Bylaw Enterprise Account, Community Preservation Act, Earthworks Bylaw, and Storm Water Bylaw—and will determine the date of its next meeting. Items not anticipated 48 hours prior may also be discussed.

• Wetlands Bylaw Enterprise Account
• Community Preservation Act
• Earthworks Bylaw
• Storm Water Bylaw
• Date of next meeting

The Bylaw Committee approved the minutes of the September 11, 2025 meeting. No other actions were decided; members discussed the Storm Water Bylaw and the Wetlands Bylaw Enterprise Account for the upcoming Fall town meeting, but no votes were taken.

• Approved September 11, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)

Town Charter Committee

The Rutland Town Charter Committee will consider approval of the September 25, 2025 meeting minutes. It will continue its discussion of the town charter. The committee may also hear any other business not anticipated within 48 hours.

• Approve meeting minutes from September 25, 2025
• Continue discussion on the town charter
• Consider any other business not anticipated within 48 hours

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the September 25 meeting. The motion was made by Ryan and seconded by Leah. No other actions were taken; the remaining agenda items were discussed but not decided.

• Approved September 25 meeting minutes (motion by Ryan, seconded by Leah)

Events Committee

The Rutland Events Committee will first approve the meeting minutes from September 17, 2025. It will then discuss several items of old business, including the 2026 Concert Series, financial reports, the Trunk or Treat event, Sock Hope Boo Wop, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and the Library's 25th anniversary. Any new business and the date of the next meeting may also be addressed.

• Approve meeting minutes from 09-17-25
• Discuss Concert Series 2026
• Review financial reports
• Plan Trunk or Treat event
• Plan 250th Anniversary of Declaration of Independence

The Events Committee unanimously approved granting Sondra authority to book food trucks for the eight concert dates. It also unanimously approved changing the Sock Hop dance date to February 21, 2026. The meeting was adjourned unanimously, and the Army Band task‑force discussion was tabled for the next meeting.

• Granted Sondra authority to book food trucks for 8 concert dates (unanimous vote)
• Changed Sock Hop dance date to 2/21/26 (unanimous vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)
• Tabled Army Band task‑force discussion for next meeting

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee will consider a site plan to add subdivision regulations. It will also review the open space zoning bylaw. The meeting includes a public comment period of up to ten minutes.

• Site plan for addition of subdivision regulations
• Review of open space zoning bylaw

Board of Appeals

The Rutland Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to consider a continued public hearing for a Use Variance at 307 Main St. The applicant seeks to restore a historic house and build a single-family dwelling. The meeting will be held in person at the Rutland Public Library.

• Public Hearing: Use Variance for 307 Main St. (continued)
• Approval of October 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Meeting held at Rutland Public Library, 280 Main St.
• Meeting begins at 6:00 P.M.
• Option for remote attendance via Zoom

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved the minutes from the October 8 meeting. It granted a use variance allowing the single‑family home at 307 Main St to be converted to light‑office space, limited to the existing footprint plus a 40 % addition and access only from Main St. The Board also closed the public hearing and adjourned, each by unanimous vote.

• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Closed the public hearing on the 307 Main St variance (unanimous)
• Granted a use variance for 307 Main St with footprint and access conditions (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hold a joint discussion with the Select Board. The meeting focuses on a presentation by Vadar regarding software options and functionality.

• Presentation by Vadar regarding software options and functionality

The committee voted to adjourn the meeting at 7:02 P.M. The motion was made by Ted Purcell, seconded by Lynn Wiinikka, and passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (7:02 P.M.)

Planning Board

The Planning Board and Conservation Commission are holding a joint meeting. The body will conduct a working session regarding active subdivisions.

• Working session regarding active subdivisions

The Planning Board approved a minor modification to use Cape Cod berms instead of granite curbs. It recommended Lindsay Lane and Pioneer Circle for street acceptance, each contingent on DPW approval. The board also agreed to plant 20 trees in Arrowhead and Pioneer Circle by May 30 2026 and to raise watergate boxes to street level on the listed streets. Several action items were assigned to coordinate documents and confirm punch‑list items.

• Approved minor modification to use Cape Cod berms instead of granite curbs (motion passed)
• Recommended Lindsay Lane for street acceptance contingent on DPW approval (motion passed)
• Recommended Pioneer Circle for street acceptance contingent on DPW approval (motion passed)
• Agreed to plant 20 trees in Arrowhead and Pioneer Circle by May 30 2026
• Agreed to raise watergate (valve) boxes to street level for Lindsay Lane, Pioneer Circle, and Woodside Ave
• Directed DPW to confirm punch‑list items for Lindsay Lane, Pioneer Circle, and Woodside Ave by 10/17/2025
• Requested electronic stormwater calculations for Arrowhead/Bear Hill be sent to Planning Board and Conservation Commission
• Requested plot plan and as‑built documentation for Brintnal Dr. stone wall be provided by 10/20/2025

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve exemptions and Chapter Land applications. The board will also discuss state certification values and a project for Turkey Hill Rd.

• Approval of exemptions
• Approval of Chapter Land
• Project for Turkey Hill Rd
• State certification of final values
• Senior work off program status: 12 spots filled, 8 veteran spots open

The Board unanimously approved the September 2025 meeting minutes. All members signed to approve the veteran and senior exemption applications and the chapter land applications. The meeting was adjourned following a motion by Jeff Gibbs, seconded by Robin Tarani.

• Approved September 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved veteran exemption clause 22E and senior exemption clause 41C (all members signed)
• Approved chapter land applications (all members signed)
• Motion to adjourn adopted (motion by Jeff Gibbs, second by Robin Tarani)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will conduct a site visit to review documents at the Town Hall Annex. The body will also discuss the Franklin T. Wood Studio and the USA Semiquincentennial, and consider three residents for an open commission seat.

• Site visit to review historical documents at Town Hall Annex
• Request for letter of support for Rutland Historical Society's T-Mobile Hometown Grant for Franklin T. Wood House updates
• Update on stone wall repair progress on Brintnal Drive
• Review of appointment interests from Christine Carpenter, Louis Shubert, and Mason Burke for the open commission seat
• Discussion on USA Semiquincentennial ideas and collaboration

The commission approved the minutes from the September 9 and September 15 meetings, the latter with an amendment, by unanimous vote. It voted to support the T‑Mobile Hometown Grant and will draft a letter of support. It also unanimously recommended Mason Burke to fill the open Historical Commission seat.

• Approved minutes for 9/9 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for 9/15 meeting with amendment (unanimous)
• Supported T‑Mobile Hometown Grant (unanimous)
• Recommended Mason Burke for open Historical Commission seat (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will review water runoff findings, formalize street acceptance recommendations, and discuss halting future reviews for the Bear Hill II and Brice Estates developments due to unpaid fees.

• Bear Hill II water runoff/soil erosion presentation
• Formal street acceptance recommendations for Lindsey Lane, Arrowhead Way, Pioneer Circle, and Woodside Avenue
• Vote to halt future Planning Board review for Bear Hill II due to unpaid fees
• Vote on minor modification to Brice Lemon approval to remove granite headers
• Review of Town Planner job description

The Planning Board approved a minor modification to use Cape Cod berms instead of granite curbs. It recommended Lindsay Lane and Pioneer Circle for street acceptance, each contingent on DPW approval. The board set tree‑planting targets for Arrowhead, Pioneer Circle and Woodside Ave to be completed by May 30 2026. Several follow‑up actions were assigned, including raising water‑gate boxes and submitting a stone‑wall plot plan.

• Approved minor modification to use Cape Cod berms instead of granite curbs
• Recommended Lindsay Lane for street acceptance, contingent on DPW approval
• Recommended Pioneer Circle for street acceptance, contingent on DPW approval
• Agreed to plant 20 trees in Arrowhead and Pioneer Circle by May 30 2026
• Agreed to plant remaining ~32 trees for Woodside Ave by May 30 2026
• Directed DPW to raise water‑gate boxes to street level and report completion by Oct 17 2025
• Directed submission of plot plan for Brintnal Dr. stone wall by Oct 20 2025
• Directed electronic copy of Boston engineering stormwater calculations to be sent to Planning Board and Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a joint meeting with the Planning Board to discuss how the two bodies will work together on subdivision reviews and on wetland and stormwater issues. No specific actions or votes are listed; the agenda is limited to discussion of collaboration. The meeting also allows for any other business not anticipated within 48 hours of the meeting.

• Joint meeting with Planning Board – discuss collaboration on subdivision review
• Joint meeting with Planning Board – discuss collaboration on wetland and stormwater review
• Other business/correspondence: items not reasonably anticipated within 48 hours

Select Board

The board will consider approval of Treasury Warrant 26-8 & 26-PW8 and the September 29, 2025 meeting minutes. A presentation on Vadar software options will be discussed jointly with the Finance Committee. The board will review proposed FY2026 budget modifications and certify free cash. Additional items include a review of the Equity Mandates & Host Community Agreement Policy and a public hearing on a nuisance dog at 14 Skyline Dr.

• Approval of Treasury Warrant 26-8 & 26-PW8 (action requested)
• Review of FY2026 budget modifications and certification of free cash
• Review of Equity Mandates & Host Community Agreement Policy (social equity policy)
• Public hearing on nuisance dog at 14 Skyline Dr.
• Presentation on Vadar software options (joint discussion with Finance Committee)

The Board approved Treasury Warrant 26‑8 and the September 29 meeting minutes unanimously. It closed the public hearing on the Skyline Dog complaint and, by unanimous vote, found Rommie a nuisance dog, ordering leashing, a 10‑foot tether, a front‑door gate, town registration, and six‑month monitoring. The Board also moved to an executive session to discuss contract matters.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 26‑8 (unanimous)
• Approved September 29, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved release of September 29 executive session minutes (unanimous)
• Closed nuisance dog public hearing (unanimous)
• Found Rommie a nuisance dog and ordered remedial actions (unanimous)
• Adjourned to executive session to discuss contracts (unanimous)

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will hold a public hearing to consider an order to show cause regarding a nuisance dog at 14 Skyline Drive. The hearing is scheduled for October 14, 2025 at 7:00 PM in the lower level of the Rutland Public Library, 280 Main Street. Remote participation will be available via Zoom and telephone dial‑in numbers. The notice is issued under Chapter 140, Section 157 of the General Laws.

• Public hearing on order to show cause for a nuisance dog at 14 Skyline Drive
• Location: Rutland Public Library Lower Level, 280 Main Street
• Remote attendance options: Zoom link https://usO2web.zoom.us/j/87674418551 and multiple phone numbers
• Legal notice issued under Chapter 140, Section 157 of the General Laws

Capital Improvement Planning Committee

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee will review the minutes from its September 4, 2025 meeting. It will consider requests for a Fall Town Special Meeting. The committee will also discuss the status of regular requests.

• Review minutes of 9/04/2025 meeting
• Consider requests for Fall Town Special Meeting
• Discuss status of regular requests

The committee accepted the September 4 minutes after correcting the month error, with all members in favor. It reaffirmed the Capital Improvement Planning Committee’s recommendation to replace the town’s street sweeper under a $250,000 lease‑to‑own agreement. The committee voted to recommend both the $222,428 public safety security and surveillance system replacement and the $98,000 replacement of the fire department’s 2026 F‑350 pickup truck with plow for inclusion on the upcoming Fall Special Town Meeting agenda. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved corrected September 4 minutes (unanimous)
• Reaffirmed CIPC recommendation for $250,000 street sweeper lease‑to‑own replacement (unanimous)
• Recommended $222,428 Public Safety Security/Surveillance System Replacement for Fall Special Town Meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended $98,000 Fire Car 3 Replacement (2026 F‑350 with plow) for Fall Special Town Meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Rutland Cultural Council will convene at 5:30 PM, approve the previous meeting’s minutes, and discuss scheduling the next meeting, which will focus on reviewing the 2026 Grants. No other business is listed.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Discussion of next meeting to review 2026 Grants

Events Committee

The Events Committee will meet to review financial reports and discuss several upcoming and future community events. The agenda includes planning for the 2026 Concert Series and various town celebrations.

• Concert Series 2026
• Trunk or Treat
• Festival of Trees
• 250th Anniversary of Declaration of Independence
• Earth Day Clean up

The Events Committee unanimously approved the September 17, 2025 meeting minutes with amendments. They also approved DJ Brian as the musical selection for the upcoming event, contingent on a price under $350; otherwise DJ Dan will be chosen. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned. Other items such as the concert grant, band submissions, and upcoming events were discussed but no further decisions were made.

• Approved 9/17/25 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved DJ Brian as musical selection pending price under $350 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding two variance applications on Main St. The board will also conduct its FY2026 re-organization to nominate a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk.

• Side setback variance for a metal garage at 127 Main St. (Adam & Lisa Foreman)
• Use variance to restore a historic house for office space and/or residential units at 307 Main St. (Mark Elbag, Jr.)
• FY2026 Re-Organization to nominate Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk

The board approved the minutes from May 21, 2025 unanimously. It granted an 8‑foot setback variance for the Foremans’ garage at 127 Main St. The board continued the public hearing on the 307 Main St. use variance to October 15, 2025. The board also elected David Lussier as clerk, Bob Paulsen as vice chair, and Chris Senecal as chair.

• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for 127 Main St. (unanimous)
• Granted 8‑foot setback variance for 127 Main St. (unanimous)
• Continued 307 Main St. public hearing to Oct 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Nominated David Lussier as clerk (unanimous)
• Nominated Bob Paulsen as vice chair (unanimous)
• Nominated Chris Senecal as chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:18 PM (unanimous)

Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will first approve the meeting minutes from October 8, 2025. It will then hold a public hearing on an application for a use variance at 307 Main St., seeking to restore the existing historic house for office or residential use and to build a single‑family dwelling. The board may also address any other business before adjourning.

• Approval of meeting minutes – October 8, 2025
• Public hearing on use variance application for 307 Main St.
• Any other business not reasonably anticipated within 48 hours
• Adjournment

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. It granted an 8‑foot variance to allow a garage at 127 Main St. The hearing on a use variance for 307 Main St. was continued to Oct. 15, 2025, and the Board elected new officers.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Granted an 8‑foot setback variance for 127 Main St. (unanimous)
• Continued the 307 Main St. use‑variance hearing to Oct. 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Nominated David Lussier as Clerk (unanimous)
• Nominated Bob Paulsen as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Nominated Chris Senecal as Chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Appeals

The Rutland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on October 8, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to consider a variance application submitted by Adam and Lisa Foreman. The request seeks permission to construct a 25’ x 33’ prefabricated metal shed on the property at 127 Main Street. The hearing will be open to the public in person at the Rutland Public Library and via Zoom.

• Variance application for a 25’ x 33’ prefabricated metal shed at 127 Main St. (applicants: Adam & Lisa Foreman)
• Public hearing scheduled for Oct 8, 2025, 6:00 p.m. at Rutland Public Library, 280 Main St.
• Remote attendance options provided via Zoom link and multiple telephone numbers

Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a use variance application from Mark Elbag, Jr. The request concerns the restoration of an existing house for use as office space and/or residential housing units.

• Use variance application for 307 Main St. regarding office space and/or residential housing units

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider an amendment to the Order of Conditions for Brice Estates, Inc. on Woodside Avenue. It will also hear a Notice of Intent from Mary Elbag for properties at 20 & 22 Finn Park Road and a request for a Certificate of Compliance from Zbigniew Olszewski for 141 Turkey Hill Road. The commission will follow up on a prior Brice Estates enforcement order and discuss a proposed joint meeting with the Planning Board and the start of drafting wetland regulations.

• Public Hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave.
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent – Mary Elbag, 20 & 22 Finn Park Rd.
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – Zbigniew Olszewski, 141 Turkey Hill Rd.
• Follow‑up on Brice Estates Enforcement Order
• Proposed joint meeting with Planning Board (Oct 14) and start drafting Wetland Regulations

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously voted to continue the Brice Estates amendment hearing and the Mary Elbag notice of intent hearing to October 21, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved September 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Brice Estates hearing to October 21, 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Mary Elbag hearing to October 21, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission will meet to receive an update on Harmony Place. The body will also discuss a Request for Proposals for tree clearing on town property.

• Update on Harmony Place
• Request for Proposals for tree clearing on town property

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the Free Cash presentation, discuss the proposed restoration of the FY26 Special Town Meeting budget, and review FY2025 actuals. The meeting will be held in-person at the Rutland Public Library.

• Review and discuss FY2025 budget actuals
• Discuss FY2027 budget topics
• Presentation on Free Cash by Acting Town Administrator Seth Knipe and Finance Director Donna Couture
• Discuss proposed restoration of FY26 Special Town Meeting budget
• Any other business not reasonably anticipated within 48 hours

The Finance Committee approved the September 18, 2025 minutes unanimously. It voted 6-1 to reduce the Wachusett Regional School District assessment by $60,900 and reallocate that amount to the town's Reserve Fund, with Carol Benoit abstaining. The committee also adjourned the meeting unanimously and set the next meeting for October 16.

• Approved September 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Reduced WRSD assessment by $60,900 and reallocated to Reserve Fund (6-1, Carol abstained)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Scheduled next Finance Committee meeting for October 16 (no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will hold a meeting on September 30, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss an ANR application for a property at 134 Main Street. The meeting will be held in-person at the Rutland Public Library Lower Level and via Zoom.

• ANR Application – 134 Main Street
• Meeting held in-person at Rutland Public Library Lower Level
• Meeting held via Zoom
• Meeting recorded by Town staff
• Agenda items may be taken out of order at Chair's discretion

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to review a municipal electricity aggregation plan. The hearing will take place in the lower level of the Rutland Public Library at 280 Main St, with remote attendance options via Zoom and telephone. No decisions are listed; the agenda is to gather public input on the plan.

• Public hearing on municipal electricity aggregation plan

Select Board

The Select Board will consider and vote on several items, including approval of the Treasury Warrant and meeting minutes, applications for a new restaurant license, and the contract for an Acting Town Administrator. Additional agenda items include proposals for a Little Library, a flag‑pole dedication ceremony, a grant signatory for the Mass Cultural Council, and changes to the Remote Meeting Policy.

• Approve Treasury Warrant 26-7 & 26-PW7 (Action Requested)
• Application for Common Victualler and On‑Premise Liquor Licenses – KP & ML, Inc., 79 Main St. (Action Requested)
• Acting Town Administrator Contract – Approve & Sign Contract (Action Requested)
• Economic Development Commission – Request to disband commission & restart Rutland Business Association (Action Requested)
• Remote Meeting Policy – Discuss proposed revisions to address public participation via Zoom chat feature (Action Requested)

The Board reviewed a draft contract for Acting Town Administrator Seth Knipe, noting the compensation language matched a prior contract. Members expressed concerns about dual compensation but the majority were comfortable with the contract. The Board decided to return to an open session to approve the contract. No vote tally was recorded.

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will consider routine approvals such as the Treasury warrant and September meeting minutes, and will vote on several public applications and proposals, including a new restaurant liquor license, a Little Library project, and revisions to the remote‑meeting policy. The board will also discuss disbanding the Economic Development Commission and the possibility of restarting a Business Association. An executive‑session item requests approval and signing of the Acting Town Administrator contract.

• Approve Treasury Warrant 26‑7 & 26‑PW 7 (Action Requested)
• Approve minutes from the September 15, 2025 regular meeting (Action Requested)
• Public hearing for new restaurant liquor license for KP & ML, Inc., 79 Main St. (Action Requested)
• Consider Letter of Interest for Cultural Council member Richard Lopez (Action Requested)
• Approve and sign contract for Acting Town Administrator (Executive Session, Action Requested)

The board approved the Treasury warrant and payroll, both unanimously. It granted a common victualler license and an all‑beverages liquor license to KP & ML, Inc. at 79 Main St. unanimously. Several items were approved, including a Cultural Council appointment, a Little Library at Naquag Elementary, the disbanding of the Economic Development Commission to restart the Rutland Business Association, and a revision to the Remote Meeting Policy. The Acting Town Administrator’s contract was approved by a 4‑1 vote.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 26-7 & payroll PW26-7 (unanimous 5‑0)
• Approved common victualler license for KP & ML, Inc. at 79 Main St (unanimous 5‑0)
• Approved liquor license for KP & ML, Inc. at 79 Main St (unanimous 5‑0)
• Appointed Rich Lopez to the Cultural Council for a 3‑year term (unanimous 5‑0)
• Approved “Little Library” at Naquag Elementary, funding from Friends of the Library (unanimous 5‑0)
• Disbanded Economic Development Commission and supported restarting the Rutland Business Association (unanimous 5‑0)
• Revised Remote Meeting Policy to hide Zoom chat from public (4‑1 vote)
• Approved contract with Acting Town Administrator, Seth Knipe (4‑1 vote)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on the application for a common victualler license submitted by KP & ML, Inc. (d.b.a Mito) for a Chinese/Japanese style restaurant at 79 Main St. The hearing is scheduled for Monday, September 29, 2025 at 6:00 PM. Residents may attend in person at the lower level of the Rutland Public Library, 280 Main St., or participate remotely via Zoom or telephone.

• Public hearing on common victualler license for KP & ML, Inc. (d.b.a Mito)
• Proposed Chinese/Japanese style restaurant at 79 Main St.
• Hearing scheduled for Sep 29, 2025 at 6:00 PM
• In‑person location: lower level of Rutland Public Library, 280 Main St.
• Remote participation via Zoom link and multiple phone numbers

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing regarding a liquor license application. The request is for an 'All Beverages' license for a restaurant at 79 Main St.

• Liquor license application by KP & ML, Inc. (d.b.a Mito) for 79 Main St.

Town Charter Committee

The committee will consider approval of the minutes from its July 10, 2025 meeting. It will continue its discussion of the town charter. Any other business may also be heard.

• Approve minutes from July 10, 2025 meeting
• Continue discussion on the town charter
• Consider any other business not anticipated within 48 hours

The committee approved the minutes from the June 10 meeting. Members discussed possible three‑year term limits for the Planning Board and reviewed the finance committee's role and the town budget process. They also considered creating a flow chart to show how the budget is prepared and approved. No formal actions or votes were recorded beyond the minutes approval.

Planning Board

The Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee will review a proposed site‑plan addition to the town’s subdivision regulations. The board will also consider approval of the previous meeting’s minutes, which are listed as TBD. After the agenda items, the public will have up to ten minutes for comments. The meeting is scheduled for September 24, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in the Rutland Public Library Curling room and via Zoom.

• Review of site‑plan addition to subdivision regulations
• Approval of minutes from prior meeting (status TBD)
• Public comment period (maximum 10 minutes)

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will review several applications for accessory and use variances, including properties on Barrack Hill Road, Main Street, and Lindsey Lane. It will also discuss inspection reports for the Brice Estates construction site and a fire department inspection of Lindsey Lane. A request to release bonds for Brice Estates Phase 3 and a draft of new stormwater management rules will be considered.

• ANR Application – 11 Barrack Hill Rd
• Variance Application – 127 Main St
• Release of Bonds Request – Brice Estates Phase 3
• Rutland Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations Draft
• Fire Dept. Inspection Report – Lindsey Lane (Brice Estates)

The Planning Board voted 3‑2 to revoke its earlier recommendation to place street‑acceptance requests on the Special Town Meeting warrant. It also denied a request for a full bond release on Phase III of Brice Estates and will send a letter to the developer. Earlier motions approved the September 9 and September 15 minutes, endorsed two ANRs, and recommended approval of a use variance for 307 Main St. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved September 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Endorsed ANR for 11 Barrack Hill Rd (unanimous)
• Endorsed ANR for 307 Main St (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of use variance for 307 Main St (unanimous)
• Revoked recommendation for street‑acceptance placeholders on Special Town Meeting warrant (3‑2 vote)
• Denied full bond release for Phase III Brice Estates; ordered letter to developer (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The committee will review proposed changes to the FY2026 budget that will be presented at the upcoming Special Town Meeting. They will also discuss the town’s free cash certification and review the free cash number. A joint demonstration of the Vadar system is scheduled for October 13. The committee will consider any topics related to the FY2027 budget and any other business.

• FY2026 Budget – discuss proposed changes for Special Town Meeting
• Free Cash Certification – discuss free cash number and review certification
• Vadar Demonstration – joint meeting scheduled for October 13
• FY2027 Budget – discuss topics related to FY27 budget
• Any other business not anticipated within 48 hours of the meeting

The committee unanimously approved the August 21 and September 2 meeting minutes. It agreed to transfer $130,000 to the OPEB fund. The committee unanimously approved a motion to request that 5% of Free Cash for FY2025 and FY2026 be used to replenish the Capital Stabilization, Stabilization, and OPEB funds. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved August 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 2, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to transfer $130,000 to the OPEB fund (unanimous)
• Approved article request to allocate 5% of Free Cash FY2025 and FY2026 to three funds (unanimous)
• Moved to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review the Town Administrator qualification submissions and receive reports from the Director and Elder Services Board. The body will also discuss the 2025-2026 Pen Pal Program and the future focus of the COA Board.

• Review of Town Administrator qualification submissions
• 2025-2026 Pen Pal Program
• Director's Report
• Elder Services Board Report

Events Committee

The Events Committee will review old business items, including the concert series evaluation, financial reports, Maker's Market and Sock Hope Boo Wop. It will also address new business items such as conflict‑of‑interest matters, code‑of‑conduct and open‑meetings correspondence, and proposals for upcoming events like Trunk‑or‑Treat, Festival of Trees, Light Up Rutland, the Library’s 25th anniversary and the town’s 250th‑anniversary community expo.

• Concert Series Evaluation (old business)
• Financial Reports (old business)
• Festival of Trees – email from Historical Society (new business)
• Light Up Rutland (new business)
• 250th Anniversary Community Expo (new business)

The Events Committee approved the August 20 meeting minutes, with one member abstaining. It decided not to hold the Light Up Rutland event and will continue the current policy of not charging food‑truck vendors. The committee unanimously authorized Sam to attend the town’s Trunk‑or‑Treat and also authorized Sam, Brian, and Harriet to attend the 2025 Festival of Trees. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved 8/20/25 meeting minutes (5 in favor, 1 abstain)
• Decided Light Up Rutland will not be held this year
• Continued policy of not charging food/drink trucks for the 2025 season
• Authorized Sam to represent the committee at 10/31/25 Trunk‑or‑Treat (unanimous)
• Authorized Sam, Brian, and Harriet to represent the committee at 2025 Festival of Trees (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Fourth of July Committee

The Rutland Fourth of July Committee will meet to discuss upcoming events for 2025 and 2026, review fundraising ideas, and approve invoices. The meeting will be held in-person at the Wood Studio on Main Street.

• Discussion of 2025 4th of July Events
• Discussion of 2026 Events
• Continued Fundraising Ideas
• Approval of invoices to be paid and review Account
• Public Comment

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will approve minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. It will review the status of the Friends of EDC and welcome signs. New business includes discussion of potential ribbon cutting ceremonies for a Japanese restaurant, Sentry Suds, and HaBBQ, as well as anniversary celebrations for Baked & Ladd's and a Trunk or Treat event. The meeting will conclude with an open discussion.

• Approval of meeting minutes (May 21, 2025)
• Status of Friends of EDC / Welcome Signs
• Potential ribbon cutting for Japanese Restaurant, Sentry Suds and HaBBQ
• Anniversary celebrations for Baked & Ladd's
• Trunk or Treat event

The Economic Development Commission voted to dissolve itself and reestablish the Rutland Business Association, with three members voting Yes, one uncounted Yes, and one abstention, and the motion carried. The commission also approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting and the current September 17, 2025 meeting, each by unanimous consent. A motion to adjourn the meeting was approved.

• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Dissolved Economic Development Commission and reestablished Rutland Business Association (motion carried; 3 Yes, 1 uncounted Yes, 1 abstain)
• Approved September 17, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved adjournment (all in favor)

Agricultural Commission

The Rutland Agricultural Commission will meet to discuss new business items. The agenda includes a review of occupancy items and an ADA ramp installation at Glenwood Greenhouse.

• Glenwood Greenhouse: installation of ADA ramp and occupancy items
• Discussion of planting supplies and bulbs

The commission voted to accept the minutes from 8/19/25, with all members in favor. Later, the meeting was adjourned after a motion and second.

• Accepted minutes from 8/19/25 (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Conservation Commission

The Rutland Conservation Commission will continue a public hearing for a wetlands permit amendment at the Brice Estates property on Woodside Ave. The meeting will also address follow-up items regarding tree clearing at Finn Park Rd. and erosion concerns on Arrowhead Way.

• Public Hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave.
• Follow Up: Tree Clearing Concerns at 38 & 40 Finn Park Rd.
• Follow Up: Erosion Concerns on Arrowhead Way, Pommogussett Rd., and Brintnal Drive
• Follow Up: Brice Estates Enforcement Order
• Discussion: Begin Drafting Wetland Regulations

The commission approved the September 2, 2025 meeting minutes and moved the Brice Estates hearing to October 7, 2025. It issued negative determinations for the 11 Barrack Hill Rd. and 335 East County Rd. applications, and granted a Certificate of Compliance for 21 Paddock Rd. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved September 2, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Brice Estates hearing to Oct 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Issued negative determination for 11 Barrack Hill Rd. (Reason No. 1) (unanimous)
• Issued negative determination for 335 East County Rd. (Reason No. 3) (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 21 Paddock Rd. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on a street name change and discuss the resignation of Interim Town Administrator David DeManche. The board is also reviewing the FY2027 budget calendar and the calling of a Special Town Meeting.

• Public hearing to change Wachusett Rd. to Milo Way
• Accept resignation of Interim Town Administrator David DeManche
• Authorization to sign National Opioid Settlement agreements
• Review and sign contract for engineering firm related to Arrowhead Way
• Proposed Town Meeting Article to adjust FY2026 Operating Budget

The board approved the Treasury warrant and FY2027 budget calendar unanimously. It voted 3-1 to rename Wachusett Road to Milo Way. The board also approved a temporary office relocation, accepted the interim administrator's resignation, appointed an acting administrator, called a special town meeting, and authorized signing of opioid settlement funds.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 26-6 & payroll PW26-6 (unanimous)
• Approved renaming of Wachusett Rd to Milo Way (3-1)
• Approved FY2027 budget calendar (unanimous)
• Approved temporary re‑location to Wood Studio (unanimous)
• Appointed Lauren Williams as associate Planning Board member (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of interim Town Administrator David DeManche (unanimous)
• Appointed Fire Chief Seth Knipe as Acting Town Administrator (unanimous)
• Called Special Town Meeting for Nov 20, 2025 (unanimous)

Select Board

The Rutland Select Board will hold a public hearing on September 15, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. The hearing will consider renaming the portion of Wachusett Road from Ridge Road to the Princeton town line to “Milo Way.” The meeting will be held in the lower level of the Rutland Public Library at 280 Main St., with remote audio/video options provided.

• Public hearing to rename Wachusett Rd. to Milo Way (Ridge Rd. to Princeton line)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to review town plans for the use of the Wood Studio. The commission also intends to join a Select Board meeting to provide input on the Franklin T. Wood Studio.

• Update on town plans for the use of the Wood Studio
• Input for Select Board regarding plans for the Franklin T. Wood Studio

The commission voted to approve the temporary relocation of the dispatch center (CMRECC) as presented, to operate in consultation with the Historic Commission. The arrangement will remain in effect until the end of July 2027 or until the dispatch center moves to a new location. The commission will provide quarterly updates to the Select Board. The motion passed unanimously.

• Approved temporary relocation of CMRECC until July 2027 (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board meeting will discuss and vote on appointing a new member to the vacant Associate Member seat on the board. After that decision, the meeting will be adjourned.

• Discussion and vote on appointment to vacant Associate Member seat on the Planning Board
• Adjournment of the meeting

The Planning Board, meeting jointly with the Select Board, voted to appoint Lauren Williams as an associate member for a three‑year term. The board also approved a $1,000 contract with an independent consulting firm to study Arrowhead Way, with funds drawn from the 53G subdivision account. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Appointed Lauren Williams as associate member (unanimous)
• Approved $1,000 consulting contract for Arrowhead Way study (unanimous)

Bylaw Committee

The Bylaw Committee will meet to address old business regarding several town bylaws and accounts. The session includes discussions on the Community Preservation Act and specific environmental regulations.

• Wetlands Bylaw Enterprise Account
• Community Preservation Act
• Earthworks Bylaw
• Storm Water Bylaw

The committee approved the Conservation Commission’s proposed wording to establish a departmental revolving fund, as described in the June 9 2025 letter. It set the public hearing for the Stormwater Bylaw changes for October 23 2025. The committee also took no action on the prior meeting minutes and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved Conservation Commission write‑up for establishing a revolving fund (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Stormwater Bylaw changes on Oct 23, 2025
• Took no action on approval of prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Town Charter Committee

The Town Charter Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and continue discussions regarding the town charter.

• Approval of July 10, 2025 meeting minutes
• Continued discussion on Town Charter

Library Board of Trustees

The Rutland Library Board will review reports from the Secretary, Director, and Children’s sections. It will consider old‑business topics such as building maintenance and budget, as well as new‑business items including policy, staff matters, budget impacts, building security, the Little Library (TAB) and an Eagle Scout project. The meeting is open to the public and may address additional items at the Chair’s discretion.

• Review reports from Secretary, Director, and Children’s sections
• Old Business – Building maintenance and budget discussion
• New Business – Budget/Impact/Hours/Capital plan considerations
• New Business – Building security review
• New Business – Eagle Scout Project presentation

Board of Assessors

The Rutland Board of Assessors meeting on September 9, 2025 will approve the August 2025 meeting minutes and discuss several items. The agenda includes an article to exempt $1,000 of personal property and send it to a special town meeting. The board will also consider approval of veterans exemptions and report that documents are in the final stages of state certification. Budget discussions have begun.

• Approval of August 2025 meeting minutes
• Article for personal property exemption of $1,000.00 to go to special town meeting
• Approval of veterans exemptions
• Final stages of submitting documents to the state for certification
• Budget talks have begun

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved the August 2025 meeting minutes. The Board adopted a set of personal‑property tax exemptions, including veterans, blind, and senior clauses, with all members signing the approvals. Discussion continued on a proposed $1,000 personal‑property exemption and the start of budget talks, but no decisions were recorded on those items.

• Approved August 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved property‑tax exemptions: veterans clause 22E $1,000, veterans clause 22E $400, blind clause 37A $500, senior clause 41C $1,000 (all members signed)

Historical Commission

The Rutland Historical Commission will convene to approve minutes, discuss the use of the Franklin T. Wood Studio, and nominate officers for FY 2026. The agenda includes updates on historic properties, a prison camp, and a town scenic roads stone wall documentation project.

• Nominate and elect FY 2026 commission officers
• Update on Town plans for the Franklin T. Wood Studio
• Discuss documenting stone walls on town scenic roads
• Continue discussion on preserving historic properties
• Review correspondence from the Rutland Historical Society

The commission approved the previous meeting minutes (3 ayes, 1 abstention). A motion was passed unanimously to ask the town to find another location for Dispatch to avoid displacing the Historical and Agricultural Commissions. The FY 2026 officers were elected: Peter as chair, Michele as vice‑chair, and Lindsay as clerk, each confirmed by unanimous ayes. Upcoming meetings were scheduled for September 15 and October 14.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (Peter aye, Lynn aye, Lindsay aye, Michele abstains)
• Motion to request town find another location for Dispatch – unanimous aye
• Peter elected chair for FY 2026 – unanimous aye (Peter abstains)
• Michele elected vice‑chair for FY 2026 – unanimous aye (Michele abstains)
• Lindsay elected clerk for FY 2026 – unanimous aye (Lindsay abstains)
• Special meeting set for September 15 at 5:45 PM to discuss Wood Studio use
• Annex walk‑through scheduled for October 14 at 4:30 PM

Planning Board

The Board will consider and vote on adding several street acceptance proposals—including Lindsey Lane, Arrowhead Way, and Pioneer Circle/Woodside Avenue—to the Special Town Meeting warrant. It will also decide on special permit extensions for Demond Pond ROW Lot 3 (192 Glenwood Road) and Lot 4, and consider an associate member appointment. Additional items include by‑law subcommittee recommendations, a nomination to the Charter Commission, and a decision on a final inspection for the mentioned streets.

• Special Permit Extension decisions for Demond Pond ROW Lot 3 (192 Glenwood Road) and Lot 4
• Vote to place Lindsey Lane (Brice Estates) street acceptance on the Special Town Meeting warrant
• Vote to place Arrowhead Way (Bear Hill II) street acceptance on the Special Town Meeting warrant
• Vote to place Pioneer Circle and Woodside Avenue (Brice Estates) street acceptance on the Special Town Meeting warrant
• Planning Board nomination of a member to serve on the Charter Commission

The Planning Board added two‑year expiration dates to three special permits and approved signing decisions for Lots 3 & 4 on Demond Pond Row and 192 Glenwood Rd. It recommended Lauren Williams for an associate member seat and Keith Tuttle for the Town Charter Committee. The board approved inspections and placed placeholders on the Town Meeting warrant for Lindsay Lane, Arrowhead Way, Pioneer Circle, and Woodside Ave. It also authorized $1,000 from the Bear Hill II subdivision account to hire an outside consultant for Arrowhead Way and ordered a letter requesting the missing storm‑water report.

• Approved two‑year extensions for three special permits (unanimous)
• Approved signing decisions for Lots 3 & 4, Demond Pond Row (unanimous)
• Approved signing decision for 192 Glenwood Rd. (unanimous)
• Recommended Lauren Williams as associate planning board member (unanimous)
• Approved inspection of Lindsay Lane and placeholder on Town Meeting warrant (4‑1)
• Approved inspection of Arrowhead Way and placeholder on Town Meeting warrant (4‑1)
• Authorized $1,000 consultant fee for Arrowhead Way from subdivision account (unanimous)
• Recommended Keith Tuttle to Town Charter Committee (unanimous)

Capital Improvement Planning Committee

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee is meeting to organize the request and rating process for the FY2027 budget. The committee will also discuss the Glenwood water heater.

• Planning of request/rating process for FY2027
• Glenwood Water Heater
• Minutes of 7/17/25 meeting

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee approved the July 17 minutes with a 4‑0 vote. The committee discussed the upcoming 2027 project list and the vacant Town Administrator position. It set the next meeting for October 23 at 6:00 pm in the Library Lower Level. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved July 17 minutes (4-0)
• Scheduled next meeting for Oct 23, 6:00 pm at Library Lower Level

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission will meet to review a request for proposals for tree clearing on town-owned land. No minutes from the previous meeting are listed for approval, and no old business is scheduled.

• Request for Proposals - Tree Clearing on Town Property

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission approved the August 7, 2025 meeting minutes with a correction by unanimous vote. Ongoing work on town‑property tree clearing continues, with Tim Nahrwold seeking a forester list of bidders and Michele Van Reet modifying the Southbridge RFP. An update on the Harmony Place 55+ community was noted, with no new actions taken. Guest Mr. Mosio raised safety concerns about street lights; Tim will inquire with the DPW superintendent about the issue.

• Approved August 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Assigned Tim Nahrwold to continue contacting DCR forester for tree‑clearing bidders
• Assigned Michele Van Reet to modify Southbridge RFP for tree‑clearing project
• Assigned Tim Nahrwold to inquire with DPW superintendent about street‑light costs

Select Board

The Select Board will meet with the Finance Committee to adopt FY2027 budget guidance and discuss Town Counsel and financial policies. The board will also review the Town Administrator profile and screening committee process. Other items include a proposed budget adjustment for FY2026 and a claim regarding a house demolition at 91 Central Tree Rd.

• FY2027 Budget Objectives and guidance adoption
• Town Administrator Profile and Screening Committee review with Collins Center
• Proposed Town Meeting Article to adjust FY2026 Operating Budget
• Statement of Claim for house demolition at 91 Central Tree Rd.
• Letter of support request for Ware River Watershed Advisory Committee regarding Oakham battery storage

The board approved the Treasury Warrant and payroll, adopted the FY2027 budget guidance memo, and approved the Town Administrator profile with edits. It also approved the Collins Center as the interview panel for the administrator search, a letter of support to Oakham on battery storage, and a Statement of Claim for 91 Central Tree Rd. The meeting was then adjourned to Executive Session for a sewer matter discussion.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 26-5 & payroll PW26-5 (5 yeas)
• Approved FY2027 budget guidance memo (5 yeas)
• Adopted Town Administrator profile with proposed edits (5 yeas)
• Approved Collins Center to serve as interview panel for TA candidates (5 yeas)
• Approved draft letter of support to Oakham on battery energy storage systems (5 yeas)
• Approved Statement of Claim for 91 Central Tree Rd. (5 yeas)
• Adjourned to Executive Session to discuss DCR sewer matter (5 yeas)
• Approved FY2027 budget calendar revisions (5 yeas)

Planning Board

The Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee will meet to review and discuss amendments to the town’s subdivision rules to include site plan approval requirements. The meeting will also include approval of past meeting minutes and a public comment period.

• Review subdivision rules for site plan approval amendments
• Approve minutes from 7/22/2025, 4/8/2025, and 4/22/2025

Cultural Council

The Rutland Cultural Council will hold a virtual meeting on September 3, 2025, to review financial reports, discuss officer roles for the upcoming year, and plan the next meeting focused on 2025 grants. The council will also recruit new community members to support local arts and culture projects.

• Treasurer's report and update on outstanding grants from the past grant year
• Discussion of officer roles for the upcoming year
• Recruitment of new council members from the community

Bylaw Committee

The Bylaw Committee will meet to discuss the Stormwater Bylaw and receive an update on the Conservation Commission Bylaw Amendment. The committee will also review minutes from June 12 and July 31, 2025.

• Stormwater Bylaw discussion
• Conservation Commission Bylaw Amendment update

The Bylaw Committee approved several edits to the Stormwater Bylaw, including language on fee billing and calculation. The amended bylaw was then advanced for consideration at the upcoming town meeting. Additional actions included appointing a Vice‑Chair and Clerk and approving prior meeting minutes.

• Motion to take Stormwater agenda item out of order – passed
• Approved edit to add “relative to stormwater” in section 8(F) – passed
• Approved edit to section 8(D) clarifying fee billing and Board of Public Works role – passed
• Advanced the amended Stormwater Bylaw to town meeting – passed
• Directed Member Pantos to send fee calculation to the Selectboard – passed
• Approved June 12, 2025 meeting minutes – passed
• Approved July 31, 2025 meeting minutes – passed
• Appointed Mike Pantos as Vice‑Chair and Kumara Govardhan as Clerk – passed

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting jointly with the Select Board to discuss budget schedules and town policies. The body will also consider a request from the Town Accountant to amend the FY2026 budget via a Special Town Meeting.

• Review of FY2027 Budget Guidance and Schedule
• Discussion of Town Counsel and Financial policies
• Finance Committee participation in the Town Administrator search process
• Request to amend the FY2026 Budget

The committee unanimously adopted the FY2027 budget guidance memo with amendments. It also approved a draft memo to the WRSD and Bay Path school districts requesting FY2027 budget submissions by November 3, 2025. The budget calendar was revised to keep the September 8 dissemination date, set a November 3 draft‑budget deadline, remove the October 6 summit, and require the five‑year capital plan by November 7. All motions passed unanimously.

• Adopt FY2027 budget guidance memo (unanimous)
• Approve draft memo to WRSD & Bay Path requesting FY2027 budgets by Nov 3 2025 (unanimous)
• Revise budget calendar: keep Sep 8 dissemination, set Nov 3 draft deadline, drop Oct 6 summit, set capital plan deadline Nov 7 (unanimous)
• Move budget hearing start to January (as part of calendar revision, unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding an amendment to the Order of Conditions for Brice Estates. The board will also review a request for a Certificate of Compliance and discuss several erosion and tree clearing concerns.

• Public Hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave.
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – Aimee Hodgerney, 3 Brintnal Dr.
• Tree clearing follow-up at 38 & 40 Finn Park Rd.
• Erosion concerns follow-up at Arrowhead Way, Pommogussett Rd., and Brintnal Drive
• Drafting of new Wetland Regulations

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the August 19, 2025 meeting minutes with a minor amendment. It also unanimously voted to continue the Brice Estates public hearing to September 16, 2025. The commission unanimously approved issuing a complete Certificate of Compliance for 3 Brintnal Dr. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved August 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Brice Estates hearing to Sep 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 3 Brintnal Dr (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to determine the qualifications required for the Town Administrator position. The board will submit this information to the Town office and Select Board as official feedback.

• Discussion of qualifications for the Town Administrator candidate

The Rutland Council on Aging met on August 28, 2025 to draft a document outlining the qualifications needed for potential town administrator candidates. The draft was completed and submitted to Tomeca Murphy on Friday, August 29, 2025. No vote tallies were recorded.

• Drafted qualifications document for town administrator candidates (submitted to Tomeca Murphy)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will vote on recommending the street acceptance of Arrowhead Way, Pioneer Circle, and Woodside Avenue for a Special Town Meeting warrant. The board will also review geotechnical engineering quotes for Bear Hill II and discuss several special permit extensions.

• Vote on street acceptance for Arrowhead Way (Bear Hill II)
• Vote on street acceptance for Pioneer Circle and Woodside Avenue (Brice Estates)
• Review of quotes for Bear Hill II Geotechnical Engineering Firm
• Special Permit extensions for 192 Glenwood Road and 0 Demond Pond R.O.W. Lots 3 and 4
• Review of Brice Estates Site Inspection Report from Quinn Engineering

The Planning Board unanimously approved hiring John Turner Consulting to conduct an outside review of the Bear Hill II roadway, with the funding source to be determined later. The Board also unanimously extended special permits for two estate lots on Demond Pond Road and one lot on Glenwood Road for two years each. Discussions on street acceptance for Arrowhead Way, Woodside Avenue, and Pioneer Circle were deferred to the September 9 meeting.

• Approved hiring John Turner Consulting for outside road review (unanimous, Keith abstained)
• Extended special permit for Lot 3, 0 Demond Pond Row for 2 years (unanimous)
• Extended special permit for Lot 4, 0 Demond Pond Row for 2 years (unanimous)
• Extended special permit for 192 Glenwood Rd for 2 years (unanimous)
• Deferred Arrowhead Way street acceptance discussion to September 9 (unanimous)
• Deferred Woodside Ave. & Pioneer Circle street acceptance discussions to September 9 (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss financial policies, budget documents, and a FY2026 shortfall ahead of a joint meeting with the Select Board. Members will also review a reserve fund transfer request for emergency demolition and provide feedback on the Town Administrator search.

• Reserve Fund Transfer Request – Emergency Demolition, Tax Title
• Town Administrator Search – Provide Feedback Requested from Select Board
• Financial Policy – Discuss Proposed Changes Ahead of Joint Mtg. w/ S. Board
• Correspondence From Town Clerk – Budget Shortfall for FY2026
• FY2027 Budget Documents – Review Draft Forms & Schedule Provided By Select Board

The Finance Committee approved the minutes from the July 31, 2025 meeting unanimously. It also approved a $3,500 reserve‑fund transfer for a tax‑title demolition case, contingent on the Treasurer/Collector’s signature, with a unanimous vote. The Committee agreed to send a drafted response letter to a resident about water and sewer accounts. No other actions were decided; several items were noted for future discussion with the Select Board.

• Approved July 31, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $3,500 reserve‑fund transfer pending Treasurer/Collector signature (unanimous)
• Approved resident response letter on water & sewer accounts (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)
• Deferred Town Administrator search recommendations to joint meeting with Select Board
• Deferred discussion of financial policy language to future meeting
• Deferred legal counsel policy feedback to joint meeting with Select Board
• Noted Town Clerk FY2026 budget concerns; no action taken

Events Committee

The Events Committee will meet to review old business and new proposals. Discussions include the town's 250th Anniversary and the Maker's Market.

• Maker's Market advertising business
• 250th Anniversary planning
• Concert Series
• Decades Dance
• Financial Reports

The committee unanimously approved the July 1 2025 and July 30 2025 meeting minutes. It then unanimously moved to adjourn the meeting. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved July 1 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 30 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Fourth of July Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss events for the 2025 and 2026 Fourth of July celebrations. Members will also review fundraising ideas and approve invoices for payment.

• Discussion of 2025 4th of July Events
• Discussion of 2026 Events
• Fundraising ideas
• Approval of invoices and account review

Planning Board

The Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee will meet to discuss updates to town bylaws and a corridor study. The session includes reviews of site plan outlines, open space modifications, and accessory dwelling updates.

• Discussion on site plan bylaw outline
• Discussion on Accessory Dwelling bylaw updates from AG
• Discussion on modifications to open space bylaw
• Discussion on Rt 68 corridor steps from planners study

Agricultural Commission

The Agricultural Commission will meet to review old and new business. Discussion items include a report on 4th of July participation and occupancy items regarding an ADA ramp installation at Glenwood Greenhouse.

• Report on 4th of July participation
• Glenwood Greenhouse ADA ramp installation and occupancy items

The commission approved the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting with unanimous support. Members discussed greenhouse ramp installation, a bulb donation request, a grant application, and upcoming events, but no formal actions were taken on those items. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Accepted minutes from 6/17/25 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Rutland Conservation Commission will open its meeting with minutes acceptance and proceed to public hearings on two site-related cases: an amendment to conditions for Brice Estates on Woodside Ave and certificate-of-compliance requests for Brice Estates (6 & 8 Woodside Ave) and Willett Construction (146 Wachusett St). The board will also discuss erosion concerns at Arrowhead Way, Pommogussett Rd, and Brintnal Drive, plus old-business items on lot clearing, roadway work, and a forest-cutting plan.

• Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave
• Certificate of Compliance – Brice Estates, Inc., 6 & 8 Woodside Ave
• Certificate of Compliance – Willett Construction, 146 Wachusett St
• Erosion Concerns – Arrowhead Way, Pommogussett Rd & Brintnal Drive
• Forest Cutting Plan – East Hill Rd

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the August 5 minutes, continued the Brice Estates public hearing, and issued Certificates of Compliance for three properties. It also adopted an Enforcement Order for Brice Estates with a response deadline of September 2, 2025, and chose not to enforce erosion concerns on Pommogussett Road while planning further inspection. The meeting was adjourned at 8:02 PM.

• Approved August 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Brice Estates public hearing to Sept 2, 2025 (unanimous)
• Issued Certificates of Compliance for 6 & 8 Woodside Ave (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 146 Wachusett St (unanimous)
• Issued Enforcement Order for Brice Estates, response due Sept 2, 2025 (unanimous)
• Decided not to enforce erosion issues on Pommogussett Rd.; will seek inspection and request stormwater report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:02 PM (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss the FY2027 budget schedule and draft memo to departments. The board is also deciding on the acceptance of Lindsay Lane and a contract renewal with Charter Spectrum.

• Public hearing on National Grid installation of two JO poles on Moulton Mill Rd.
• Street acceptance request for the layout of Lindsay Lane (Brice Estates)
• Review and approval of the November Special Town Meeting calendar
• Review of Charter Spectrum contract renewal
• Acceptance of a gift from Devereux School to the Rutland Police Department

The board unanimously approved the street acceptance request to lay out Lindsay Lane as a public way. It also approved the Special Town Meeting calendar, accepted a $45,000 gift for the Police Department, and authorized renewal of the Charter Spectrum contract. All appointments were confirmed, with one abstention on a Cultural Council appointment.

• Approved Treasury Warrant PW26-4 (unanimous)
• Approved National Grid petition for two poles on Moulton Mill Rd (unanimous)
• Appointed Mary Hunt to Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Amanda Ando to Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee (unanimous)
• Appointed Nancy Sechman to Cultural Council (3 yeas, 1 abstain)
• Approved Lindsay Lane street acceptance request (unanimous)
• Approved Special Town Meeting calendar (unanimous)
• Accepted $45,000 gift for Police Department (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing to consider a petition from National Grid and Verizon New England, Inc. The proposal involves installing two joint-use poles in the right-of-way to provide power to 5 Moulton Mill Rd.

• Petition to install 2 JO poles on Moulton Mill Rd. starting 45-feet west southwest of the Pommogussett Rd. intersection

Planning Board

The Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee will meet to identify and prioritize which zoning bylaws need to be addressed. The group will also discuss board makeup and schedule a follow-up meeting.

• Identification and prioritization of zoning bylaws for subcommittee action
• Discussion on board makeup

Library Board of Trustees

The Rutland Library Board of Trustees will convene an in-person meeting to review reports from the Secretary, Director, and Children’s departments. Old business items include cable/meeting space/fees, building maintenance/budget, MASSCAT, events/programs, and the Long Range Plan. New business items include policy, staff, incidents, budget/impact/hours/capital plan, building security, and geocache location.

The Rutland Library Board accepted and approved the Secretary's July report with minor revisions. The Director's July report was also approved. The Children's Director's report was approved as well. No other formal actions or approvals were recorded.

• Approved Secretary's July report
• Approved Director's July report
• Approved Children's Director's July report

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will discuss a Scenic Road Bylaw violation on Brintnal Drive and recommend compensatory actions to the Planning Board. The body will also review the town historical properties inventory and elect officers for FY 2026.

• Scenic Road Bylaw violation on Brintnal Drive
• Election of FY 2026 commission officers
• Discussion of prison camp observations
• Review of town historical properties inventory
• Correspondence regarding Events Committee/USA 250th

The commission unanimously approved a motion to send recommendations on compensatory action for a stone‑wall violation to Delia. Each member was tasked with researching sign options and bringing photos to the next meeting, and Lynn will ask Fossil for sign recommendations. The regular meeting was scheduled for September 9.

• Approved motion to send stone‑wall recommendations to Delia (unanimous)
• Assigned members to research sign options and bring photos to next meeting
• Lynn to request sign recommendations from Fossil
• Scheduled next regular meeting for Sept. 9

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss a scenic roads bylaw violation on Brintnal Drive and review construction and wetland crossing updates for Brice Estates. The board will also consider appointments for a bylaw subcommittee and a CMRPC delegate.

• Scenic Roads Bylaw Violation: Brintnal Drive
• Brice Estates: Construction update from 7/24/2025 site visit
• Brice Estates: Revised Wetland Crossing plans
• Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee: Expression of interest from Amanda Ando
• Wachusett Rd. ANR Update

The Planning Board unanimously approved the July 22 minutes and appointed Amanda Ando to the Bylaw Subcommittee, pending confirmation of appointing authority. The Board also unanimously nominated Tim Nahrwold as the CMRPC delegate. It directed staff to draft a Request for Proposal to broaden the consulting team that assists the Board. Additionally, the Board agreed to request a restoration plan from developer C.B. Blair for the stone‑wall on Brintnal Drive.

• Approved July 22 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Amanda Ando to Bylaw Subcommittee, contingent on authority (unanimous)
• Nominated Tim Nahrwold as CMRPC delegate (unanimous)
• Directed drafting of RFP to expand consulting team (unanimous)
• Agreed to send letter to C.B. Blair requesting stone‑wall restoration drawings (unanimous)
• Noted no further action on rescinding Wachusett Rd ANR (no vote)
• Requested Master Plan completion date from CMRPC (no vote)
• Scheduled review of erosion consultant quotes at Aug 26 meeting (no vote)

Conservation Commission

The Rutland Conservation Commission will hold a site visit at 146 Wachusett St. as part of the review process for a Certificate of Compliance. This is a procedural meeting with no formal decisions or votes scheduled.

• Site visit at 146 Wachusett St. for Certificate of Compliance review

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission will meet to reorganize its leadership and discuss feedback for the Select Board regarding the Town Administrator search. The body will also address a Request for Proposals for tree clearing on town property.

• Nomination of Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Feedback for Select Board regarding Town Administrator search
• Request for Proposals for tree clearing on town property

The commission approved the minutes from the June 5, 2025 meeting. Members unanimously nominated Tim Nahrwold as Chair, Michele Van Reet as Vice Chair, and Mike Sullivan as Clerk. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved June 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Nominated Tim Nahrwold as Chair (unanimous)
• Nominated Michele Van Reet as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Nominated Mike Sullivan as Clerk (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Rutland Cultural Council will meet to discuss recommending the appointment of a new council member. Other agenda items are limited to the approval of meeting minutes and old business.

• Discussion to recommend appointment of New Council Member

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will discuss the progress of state certification and the status of the exemption program. The body is also scheduled to approve a new grading chart and sign liens and a release.

• Approval of new grading chart
• Signing of 3 liens and 1 release
• Update on state certification expected by August 15
• Exemption program applications to be mailed September 1st
• Reorganization of Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk

The Board approved the June 2025 meeting minutes. Members signed off on three liens and one release. The Board adopted a new property‑grading chart. The Board reorganized its officer positions, confirming Jeff Gibbs as Chair, Robin Tarani as Vice Chair, and Brian Green as Clerk.

• Approved June 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Signed three liens and one release (all members signed)
• Approved new grading chart for property assessments (all signed)
• Re‑organized Board positions: Jeff Gibbs Chair, Robin Tarani Vice Chair, Brian Green Clerk (all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding an amendment to the Order of Conditions for Brice Estates, Inc. The board will also review erosion and tree clearing concerns at several town locations. Additionally, the commission will begin drafting new wetland regulations.

• Public Hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions – Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave.
• Requests for Certificate of Compliance – Brice Estates, Inc., 6 & 8 Woodside Ave.
• Erosion concerns at Arrowhead Way, Pommogussett Rd., and Brintnal Drive
• Tree clearing concerns at Finn Park Rd.
• Drafting of new Wetland Regulations

The Rutland Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the July 15, 2025 meeting and continued a public hearing on the Brice Estates amendment to August 19, 2025. It authorized the use of Wetlands Protection Act funds to retain Town Counsel for erosion‑related matters and recommended appointing Mary Hunt to the commission. The board also adopted a recommendation to rebuild a stone wall on Brintnal Drive to its original condition with added native plantings.

• Approved July 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Brice Estates public hearing to August 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Authorized Wetlands Protection Act funds for Town Counsel on erosion issue (unanimous)
• Recommended appointment of Mary Hunt to the Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Recommended rebuilding stone wall on Brintnal Dr. to pre‑existing condition with six native shrubs (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will interview and award a contract to a recruitment firm for the Town Administrator search. Members will also review electricity aggregation plans from Good Energy and discuss FY2027 budget objectives.

• Award contract to recruitment firm for Town Administrator search
• Review and choose electricity aggregation product from Good Energy
• Review draft memo and schedule for FY2027 Budget Objectives
• One day liquor license for Rutland Sportsman’s Club (Concerts on the Common)
• Appointment of Election Workers

The Board approved Treasury Warrant PW26-3 and the July 21 minutes, then awarded the executive search contract to the Collins Center of UMass Boston. It also approved Good Energy’s “Product Suite 2” for electricity aggregation, appointed election workers, approved the flag‑pole donor plaque design, and granted two one‑day liquor licenses for the Rutland Sportsman’s Club.

• Approved Treasury Warrant PW26-3 (unanimous)
• Approved July 21, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Awarded executive search contract to Collins Center ($14,000 plus advertising) (unanimous)
• Approved Good Energy “Product Suite 2” for electricity aggregation (unanimous)
• Appointed election workers as presented (unanimous)
• Approved design of donor plaque for new flag pole (unanimous, 1 abstain)
• Approved one‑day liquor licenses for Rutland Sportsman’s Club on Aug 22 & Sep 5 (unanimous)
• Approved, but did not release, July 21 executive session minutes (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss how employee hours are split between the Highway Department and Water/Sewer enterprise accounts. The committee will also review the town's financial policy and discuss the FY2027 budget.

• Water & Sewer Enterprise Accounts employee hour allocation
• Reserve Fund Transfer Request for Assoc. of Town Finance Committees annual dues
• Review of current Financial Policy for possible additions or revisions
• FY2027 Budget discussions

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the July 17 meeting. It also unanimously approved a $201 transfer from the Reserve Fund to pay the FY2026 Association of Town Finance Committees dues. Members agreed to hold a joint meeting with the Select Board on October 23 to review the Special Town Meeting warrant. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved July 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $201 Reserve Fund transfer for FY2026 ATFC dues (unanimous)
• Confirmed availability for joint Select Board meeting on Oct 23 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Bylaw Committee

The committee will review a rough draft of a Stormwater Bylaw provided by DPW Director Chris Kolofsky and related correspondence from the Interim Town Administrator. The meeting also includes the appointment of a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk for the coming year.

• Review of Stormwater Bylaw draft from DPW Director Chris Kolofsky
• Proposed amendment by Conservation Commission for a new revolving fund
• Discussion of Earthworks Bylaw
• Appointments of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk
• Process for individuals to request new bylaws

The committee approved the minutes from the February 18 and April 1, 2025 meetings. It voted to remove the Earthworks Bylaw item from current and future agendas. It postponed the reorganization of the Bylaw committee chairs and clerk until the next meeting. It authorized the secretary to send an acknowledgment letter to the Interim Town Administrator and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved February 18, 2025 meeting minutes (passed)
• Approved April 1, 2025 meeting minutes (passed)
• Removed Earthworks Bylaw item from agenda (passed)
• Postponed Bylaw committee reorganization until next meeting (passed)
• Authorized secretary to send acknowledgment letter to Interim Town Administrator (passed)
• Adjourned the meeting (passed)

Events Committee

The Events Committee will meet to review financial reports and discuss several community events. The agenda includes updates on the town's 250th Anniversary and various local markets and concerts.

• 250th Anniversary planning
• Concert Series
• Maker's Market
• Decades Dance
• Video Marketing

The Events Committee adopted a new officer structure, naming Jeanne as Chair, Sondra as Co‑Chair, Barbara as Treasurer, and Sam as Secretary, with a unanimous vote. The committee also approved moving forward with the third Maker's Market, adding a free Kid's Corner for children 12 and under, again unanimously. Discussion on charging food trucks a fee was tabled for later in the season. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved committee reorganization (Chair Jeanne, Co‑Chair Sondra, Treasurer Barbara, Secretary Sam) – unanimous
• Approved planning of 3rd Maker's Market with free Kid's Corner – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

Planning Board

The Planning Board and Bylaw Subcommittee will meet to discuss local land use and administrative matters. The board will review engineer reports and a specific bylaw violation. The meeting also includes a discussion on the Town Administrator search process.

• Scenic Roads Bylaw Violation at Brintnal Drive
• Consultant Engineer’s Reports on Acceptance Inspection and As-Built plans for Brice Lemon III
• Bylaw Sub-Committee re-organization and upcoming projects
• Town Administrator Search Process Recommendations

Planning Board

The Planning Board and Bylaw Subcommittee are meeting to review engineering reports and a bylaw violation. The board will also discuss the reorganization of the Bylaw Subcommittee and recommendations for the Town Administrator search process.

• Consultant Engineer’s Reports on Acceptance Inspection and As-Built plans for Brice Lemon III
• Scenic Roads Bylaw Violation at Brintnal Drive
• Bylaw Sub-Committee reorganization and upcoming projects
• Town Administrator Search Process Recommendations

The Planning Board decided to obtain feedback from the Conservation and Historical Commissions before sending a letter to the developer about the stone‑wall violation on Brintnal Drive. It also kept street trees on the punch‑list for Brice Estates and agreed to adopt a policy with a draft template for monthly subdivision reports at the next meeting. The Board nominated Tim Nahrwold and Norm Anderson as Bylaw Subcommittee chairs and Keith Tuttle as clerk, all unanimously. Additionally, the Board will request Town Counsel’s advice on rescinding the 2022 ANR plan for Milo Way.

• Approved July 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to obtain Conservation and Historical Commission feedback before sending violation letter for Brintnal Dr. stone wall (unanimous)
• Decided to keep street trees on punch‑list for Brice Estates (unanimous)
• Agreed to adopt policy and draft template for monthly subdivision reports (unanimous)
• Nominated Tim Nahrwold and Norm Anderson as Bylaw Subcommittee chairs (unanimous)
• Nominated Keith Tuttle as Bylaw Subcommittee clerk (unanimous)
• Will seek Town Counsel advice on rescinding ANR plan for Milo Way (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will review the proposed salary for the Town Administrator job posting and establish goals for FY2026. The board will also consider the re-appropriation of library warrant articles for the Fall Town Meeting.

• Proposed salary for Town Administrator job posting
• Review of FY2025 goals and establishment of FY2026 goals
• Review of library warrant articles for possible re-appropriation at Fall Town Meeting
• Draft policy on the use of municipal lots for parking state vehicles
• Executive session regarding a property in the Land Court process (Tax Title)

The Select Board unanimously approved Treasury Warrant 25‑28, TW 26‑2 and related payroll warrants. It also unanimously approved the minutes from the July 7, 2025 meeting. A new policy governing use of municipal parking lots by state vehicles was adopted without opposition. The board then unanimously moved to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss a Land Court property.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 25‑28, TW 26‑2, payroll PW25‑28 & PW26‑2 (unanimous)
• Approved July 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted policy for use of municipal parking lots by state vehicles (unanimous)
• Adjourned to Executive Session to discuss Land Court property (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss the upcoming FY2027 budget process and plans for free cash. The body is also reviewing the Town Administrator search process and employee hour allocations for water and sewer enterprise accounts.

• Reserve Fund Transfer Request for Tax Title Proceedings
• Review of Finance Committee Bylaw
• Feedback for Select Board regarding Town Administrator search process
• FY2026 dues for Association of Town Finance Committees
• Scheduling a joint meeting with Select Board on September 2nd regarding financial and town counsel policy

The committee approved a $5,000 reserve fund transfer to cover land court fees, passing the motion 5-1. It also unanimously approved the minutes from the July 1, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved $5,000 reserve fund transfer (5-1)
• Approved minutes of July 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Capital Improvement Planning Committee

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee is meeting to discuss the new formation of the committee and its future roles. The body will also review minutes from the June 12, 2025, meeting.

• Minutes of 6/12/2025 meeting
• New formation of CIPC and roles going forward

The committee approved the June 12 minutes with two votes in favor and two abstentions. Members elected Dan Gracey as Chair, Chris Borreson as Vice Chair, and Annemarie Govardhan as Clerk, each by unanimous approval. The meeting was adjourned at 6:18 p.m.

• Approved June 12 minutes (2 yes, 2 abstain)
• Elected Dan Gracey as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Chris Borreson as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Annemarie Govardhan as Clerk (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meetings for Sep 4 and Sep 25
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Fourth of July Committee

The Fourth of July Committee will meet to discuss events for 2025 and 2026. The body will also address final invoices and appoint a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk for the upcoming year.

• Appointments for Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Payment of final invoices
• Discussion of 2025 4th of July events
• Discussion of 2026 events

The Fourth of July Committee elected Ben Barakian as Chair, Caroline Bishop as Vice Chair, and Karen Greenwood as Secretary, each motion passing unanimously. Members voted to approve payment of $25,498 for outstanding invoices using the town’s accounts, also unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Elected Ben Barakian as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Caroline Bishop as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Karen Greenwood as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $25,498 for event invoices (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will review reports from the Secretary, Director, and Children's department. The board will discuss ongoing business regarding building maintenance and the Long Range Plan, as well as new business concerning the FY 26 schedule and budget.

• Cable, meeting space, and fees
• Building maintenance and budget
• MASSCAT
• FY 26 schedule
• Budget, impact, hours, and capital plan

The board approved the June secretary, director, and children’s reports after motions and seconds. It elected FY2026 officers, retaining Ruth Rovezzi as chair, appointing Tressa Santillo as vice‑chair, and keeping Jean Grant as secretary. No other substantive actions were taken; other agenda items were discussed or noted as having no updates.

• Approved secretary’s June report with minor corrections
• Approved director’s June report
• Approved children’s director’s June report
• Elected Ruth Rovezzi to continue as Chair for FY2026
• Appointed Tressa Santillo as Vice‑Chair for FY2026
• Re‑appointed Jean Grant as Secretary for FY2026

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding an amendment to the Order of Conditions for Brice Estates on Woodside Ave. The board will also discuss drafting wetland regulations and review construction reports for wetland replication.

• Public Hearing: Amendment to Order of Conditions for Brice Estates, Inc., Woodside Ave.
• Requests for Certificate of Compliance for 6 & 8 Woodside Ave.
• Wetland Replication Construction Reports for 12 Phillips Rd. and Brice Estates
• Discussion on drafting Wetland Regulations and the Revolving Fund
• Review of roadway work on Wachusett Rd.

The Conservation Commission approved the June 17, 2025 minutes and unanimously continued the Brice Estates public hearing to August 5, 2025. Members also voted unanimously to appoint Melissa Danza as Chair and Jared Gentilucci as Vice Chair. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Brice Estates public hearing to Aug 5, 2025 (unanimous)
• Nominated Melissa Danza as Chair (unanimous)
• Nominated Jared Gentilucci as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Charter Committee

The Town Charter Committee will nominate a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk for the upcoming year. The body will also hold follow-up discussions regarding a Q&A session and continued talks with Attorney Wilson from the Collins Center.

• Nominations for Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Follow-up discussion from Q&A session
• Discussion with Attorney Wilson (Collins Center)

The Rutland Town Charter Committee approved the meeting minutes. The committee reapproved its officers. It scheduled the next meetings for September 11 and September 25 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Reapproved committee officers
• Scheduled next meetings for 9/11 and 9/25 at 6:30 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will vote on a Site Plan Approval for a garage and discuss road acceptance and property encroachments. The board will also address resident complaints regarding soil erosion and storm water.

• SPA Decision Vote for garage construction at 187 Pleasantdale Road
• Discussion on soil erosion and storm water complaints on Pommogusset Road and Brintnal Drive
• Lindsay Lane Road Taking
• Town Engineer's report on acceptance inspection and as-built plan for Arrowhead Way
• Discussion on property fence encroachment into the road at 541 East County Road

The Planning Board approved the June 24, 2025 minutes and signed the site‑plan for 187 Pleasantdale Rd. It nominated Dick Williams as Vice Chair, Norm Anderson as Chair, and Keith Tuttle as Clerk, each with unanimous support. The board took no action on the incomplete Lindsay Lane street‑acceptance request and adjourned at 9:20 P.M.

• Approved June 24, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Signed site‑plan decision for 187 Pleasantdale Rd. (unanimous)
• Nominated Dick Williams as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Nominated Norm Anderson as Chair (unanimous)
• Nominated Keith Tuttle as Clerk (unanimous)
• No action on Lindsay Lane street‑acceptance request (incomplete)
• Sent letter to developer requesting $250 per lot for Bear Hill II subdivision
• Adjourned meeting at 9:20 P.M. (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board and Board of Public Works will discuss utility rates and the search for a new Town Administrator. The board is also reviewing appointments and a policy for state vehicle parking in municipal lots.

• Setting of FY2026 Water & Sewer Rates
• Review of RFP for Town Administrator search firms and funding source
• One Day Liquor License for Rutland Sportsman’s Club Concert on the Common
• Acceptance of donated flag pole for Town Common
• Update on Wachusett Rd. following Town Counsel review

The Board appointed Tim Nahrwold to the Planning Board for a term ending May 2026, passing the motion 5‑4. It also approved a $100 annual increase to the water and sewer construction fee for FY2026 (4‑1) and accepted the resignations of Town Administrator Austin Cyganiewicz and Events Committee member Amanda Holmes unanimously. Additional actions included accepting a donated flag pole, approving a one‑day liquor license for the Rutland Sportsman’s Club, adopting Town Counsel’s guidance on Wachusett Road, and deferring discussion of the former administrator’s exit interview.

• Appointed Tim Nahrwold to Planning Board (5-4)
• Approved $100 annual increase to water & sewer construction fees (4-1)
• Accepted resignation of Town Administrator Austin Cyganiewicz (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Events Committee member Amanda Holmes (unanimous)
• Accepted donation of new flag pole for Town Common (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Rutland Sportsman’s Club (unanimous)
• Adopted Town Counsel guidance that Wachusett Rd is not a public way (unanimous)
• Deferred discussion of exit interview with former Town Administrator (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board and Select Board are holding a joint meeting. The body will discuss and vote on an appointment to a vacant seat on the Planning Board.

• Appointment to vacant seat on the Planning Board

The Planning Board voted to appoint Tim Nahrwold to serve on the board until the May 2026 town election. The motion passed with a 5-4 vote. The board then unanimously approved a motion to adjourn the meeting.

• Appointed Tim Nahrwold to Planning Board (5-4)
• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously

Events Committee

The Events Committee will meet to discuss the town's concert series and Maker's Market. The body will also consider the Army Band for the 250th Anniversary and the Annual Decades Dance - Sock Hop.

• Army Band for 250th Anniversary
• Annual Decades Dance - Sock Hop
• Concert Series
• Maker's Market
• Financial Reports

The committee voted unanimously to schedule the Army Band concert for July 10, 2026. It also approved the meeting minutes, a policy for nonprofit tables at concerts, an additional $100 payment to the band, a co‑host Facebook page, a second Maker’s Market on August 2, and purchase of a missing sponsor T‑shirt. The reorganization of committee leadership was postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved Army Band event for July 10, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved 5/13/25 meeting minutes with amendments (unanimous)
• Approved nonprofit table policy at concerts (unanimous)
• Approved additional $100 payment to the band (unanimous)
• Approved adding Booty & the Jett as Facebook co‑host (unanimous)
• Approved second Maker’s Market for August 2 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of missing sponsor T‑shirt (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion of committee reorganization for next meeting

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to organize its leadership and review requests for funds from the reserve account. The body will also consider minutes from the May 22, 2025 meeting.

• Nomination of Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Reserve Fund Transfer Requests for Fire Dept.
• Reserve Fund Transfer Requests for Town Counsel

The committee approved the minutes from the May 22, 2025 meeting and unanimously elected Darren Ross as Chair, Ted Purcell as Vice Chair, and Lynn Wiinikka as Clerk. It also approved a $13,000 reserve fund transfer to Town Counsel purchased services and a $5,000 transfer to Public Safety purchased services. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:27 p.m.

• Approved May 22, 2025 minutes (unanimous, Karen abstained)
• Elected Darren Ross as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Ted Purcell as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Lynn Wiinikka as Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved $13,000 reserve fund transfer to Town Counsel purchased services (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 reserve fund transfer to Public Safety purchased services (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:27 p.m. (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to review property inventories and elect officers for FY 2026. The meeting includes a site visit to the Rutland Prison Camp off Intervale Rd to observe signage, structures, and gate posts.

• Site visit to Rutland Prison Camp off Intervale Rd
• Review of MHC property inventories
• Election of FY 2026 Commission officers

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to review reports from the Director and the Elder Services Board. The body will also discuss the Pen Pal Program and the future focus of the COA Board.

• Director’s Report
• Elder Services Board Report
• Pen Pal Program update
• Discussion on the focus of the COA Board moving forward

The council accepted the previous meeting's minutes as presented. Members discussed a name change request from the Eastern Area Agency on Aging and noted a pending $26,000 grant for an automatic door at the Senior Center. A lengthy discussion covered building renovations and the possibility of forming a building committee. The next meeting is scheduled for September 18, 2025 at 10:00.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a site plan for a garage construction. The board will also address administrative reorganizations and specific property concerns.

• Site Plan Review for garage construction at 187 Pleasantdale Rd.
• Review of erosion issues at 140 Pommogussett Rd.
• Discussion of property fence on East County Rd.
• Solar surety for Treasure Valley solar field on Pleasantdale Rd.
• Recommendation to fill a Planning Board vacancy.

The Board approved the June 10, 2025 minutes unanimously. It approved the site‑plan for a garage at 187 Pleasantdale Rd., contingent on correcting a typo in the Conservation Commission’s Order of Conditions. The Board recommended appointing Tim Nahrwold to fill the Planning Board vacancy, passing the motion 2‑1 (Alex opposed, Dick recused). The Board also voted to table board re‑organization until the next meeting.

• Approved June 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing (3-1)
• Approved site‑plan for 187 Pleasantdale Rd. garage, contingent on typo correction (unanimous)
• Tabled board re‑organization until next meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended appointment of Tim Nahrwold to Planning Board (2-1, Alex nay, Dick recused)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing to review a site plan application. The board is considering a request from George Lussier to construct a garage.

• Public hearing for site plan review of a garage at 187 Pleasantdale Rd.

Select Board

The Select Board and Board of Public Works will meet to discuss a multi-year budget forecast and proposed changes to library building hours. The board will also consider several appointments and a one-day liquor license.

• One day liquor license for Lilac Hedge Farm on July 3rd
• Review of current multi-year budget forecast
• Proposed change in library building hours and meeting availability
• Update on Wachusett Rd. following Town Counsel review
• Water abatement request from the Board of Public Works

The Board approved the FY2026 appointments, including KP Law as Town Counsel for a one‑year term ending June 30, 2026. It denied the water‑meter abatement request and agreed to send additional Wachusett Road documents to Town Counsel for review. The Board also extended the 4th of July Committee term and approved a one‑day liquor license for Lilac Hedge Farm.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 25‑26 & payroll PW25‑26 (5-0)
• Approved FY2026 Board and Committee appointments (5-0)
• Appointed KP Law as Town Counsel for one‑year term (5-0)
• Extended 4th of July Committee appointments to July 31 each year (5-0)
• Reduced RDIC membership from 6 to 5, effective immediately (5-0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Lilac Hedge Farm on July 3, 2025 (5-0)
• Denied water abatement request (5-0)
• Sent Wachusett Road documentation to Town Counsel for review (5-0)

Agricultural Commission

The Agricultural Commission will meet to review old business regarding a greenhouse project. The commission will also discuss new business concerning participation in the Fourth of July.

• Greenhouse project
• Fourth of July participation

The commission accepted the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting. Members elected Glenn Kauppila as Chair, Natalie Borreson as Clerk, and Randy Jordan as Vice Chair for FY 2025. The commission also voted to extend Dick's membership on the commission. Cleland agreed to pay the $250 outstanding balance per sold building lot to the town treasurer.

• Accepted minutes from 5/20/25 (unanimous)
• Elected Glenn Kauppila as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Natalie Borreson as Clerk (unanimous)
• Elected Randy Jordan as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Extended Dick's membership on the commission (unanimous)
• Cleland to pay $250 per sold building lot to town treasurer

Fourth of July Committee

The Fourth of July Committee is meeting to review vendor agreements and the volunteer schedule. The body will also discuss financial updates and fundraising ideas for events.

• Approval and discussion of vendor agreements
• Financial update and fundraising ideas
• Volunteer schedule
• Payment of invoices

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on three property applications and discuss the removal of Japanese Knotweed on town property. The board will also begin drafting wetland regulations and review three properties in Land Court regarding open space value.

• Request for Certificate of Compliance at 28 Haven Hill Rd.
• Determination of Applicability for Evan Sawyer at 213 Barre Paxton Rd.
• MassDEP Appeal of Determination of Applicability at 322 Main St.
• Erosion concerns at 140 Pommogussett Rd. and Route 56 at Moulton Pond Dam
• Drafting of Wetland Regulations and discussion of Revolving Fund

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the June 3 meeting. It issued a positive Determination of Applicability for 213 Barre Paxton Rd. with conditions on erosion control and wetland boundaries. It also approved sending violation and informational letters to the developer and affected homeowners regarding erosion on Pommogussett Rd. and Arrowhead Way. The FY2026 MACC dues were authorized for payment from the WPA account.

• Approved June 3 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Issued positive Determination of Applicability for 213 Barre Paxton Rd. with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved sending violation letter to developer and informational letter to homeowners on Pommogussett Rd. and Arrowhead Way (unanimous)
• Authorized payment of FY2026 MACC dues from WPA account (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to cancel July 1st meeting and schedule next meeting for July 15th (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will review reports from the Secretary, Director, and Children's department. The board will discuss ongoing business regarding building maintenance and the Long Range Plan, as well as new business concerning the FY 26 schedule and budget.

• Cable, meeting space, and fees
• Building maintenance and budget
• MASSCAT
• FY 26 schedule
• Budget, impact, hours, and capital plan

The trustees approved a motion to keep the library's hours and operations unchanged through the summer, with a re‑evaluation set for October 1. An amendment was adopted committing the board to work with the Select Board and Finance Committee to find supplemental budget solutions. The board also accepted the secretary’s May report (with minor corrections) and the director’s May report.

• Motion to keep library hours and operations unchanged through summer, re‑evaluate Oct 1 (unanimous)
• Amendment committing Board to work with Select Board and Finance Committee on budget supplements (unanimous)
• Accepted secretary’s May report with minor corrections (approved)
• Accepted director’s May report (approved)

Planning Board

The Planning Board and Conservation Commission will meet for a joint site visit. The purpose is to address erosion concerns reported by the homeowner.

• Site visit at 140 Pommogussett Rd. regarding erosion concerns

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission and Planning Board will perform a joint site visit. The purpose is to address erosion concerns raised by the homeowner.

• Site visit at 140 Pommogussett Rd. regarding erosion concerns

Events Committee

The Events Committee will meet to review financial reports and progress on the Concert Series and Maker's Market. The committee will also discuss new business regarding the Army Band and the 250th Anniversary.

• Financial Reports
• Concert Series
• Maker's Market
• Army Band
• 250th Anniversary

The Events Committee unanimously approved moving forward with planning the 2026 Army Band concert and will notify the Board of Selectmen, Historical Commission, and the band. The committee also unanimously approved sending a letter to the Board of Selectmen and Library Trustees expressing concern over the library’s after‑hours meeting‑room cuts. Earlier, the May 14 and May 28, 2025 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved May 14 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved May 28 2025 meeting minutes with amendments (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with planning for 2026 Army Band concert; will inform Board of Selectmen, Historical Commission, and band (unanimous)
• Approved sending letter to Board of Selectmen and Library Trustees about after‑hours meeting‑room cuts (unanimous)
• Approved membership update: Harriet Klayman becomes member 7/1/25; Joanna Lynch term ends 7/1/25 (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of meeting (unanimous)

Capital Improvement Planning Committee

The committee will meet to discuss a previous recommendation for a street sweeper for the DPW sewer department. Members will also discuss future applicants and the future of the committee.

• Recommendation of street sweeper for DPW sewer department

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee approved motions to recommend Annemarie Govardhan and Mike Pantos Jr. as new members, directing letters to the Select Board. The committee also accepted the minutes from the January 23 meeting. All motions passed unanimously.

• Recommend Annemarie Govardhan as new member – approved (all)
• Recommend Mike Pantos Jr. as new member – approved (all)
• Accept minutes from Jan 23 – approved (all)
• Adjourn meeting – approved (all)

Bylaw Committee

The Bylaw Committee will discuss the recommended processes for citizens to request new bylaws or changes to existing ones. The committee also plans to discuss adding these processes to the town website for citizen input.

• Earthworks Bylaw
• Storm Water Bylaw
• Amendment to existing bylaws for Conservation Commission
• Creation of email account for bylaw committee
• Welcome of new member Lionel Carbonneau

The committee approved the minutes from the May 8, 2025 meeting, correcting a name spelling. The motion to adjourn the meeting was passed unanimously. New member Lionel Carbonneau was welcomed and Lynn Turcotte announced she will not seek reappointment. An email address for the committee was established.

• Approved May 8, 2025 minutes (4 in favor, 1 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting (5 in favor, 0 abstain, 0 opposed)

Town Charter Committee

The Town Charter Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and conduct a public Q&A session. The committee will also review additional survey responses.

• Public Q&A Session
• Review of additional survey responses
• Approval of May 22, 2025 meeting minutes

The committee approved the meeting minutes. It reapproved the current committee officers. The next meeting dates were set for September 11 and September 25 at 6:30 p.m. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion first by Ryan, second by Michele)
• Reapproved committee officers
• Scheduled next meetings for 9/11 and 9/25 at 6:30 p.m.

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will visit the Rutland Prison Camp to observe signage, structures, and gate posts. The body will also discuss the Wood House & Studio application for State/National Register placement and plans for the nation's 250th anniversary.

• Site visit to Rutland Prison Camp off Intervale Rd.
• Update on Wood House & Studio application to Mass. Historical Commission
• Discussion of town historical properties inventory
• Planning for the nation's 250th anniversary
• Consideration of commission re-appointments for FY2026

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting to coordinate tax billing and review property inspections. The board will determine percentages for crumbling foundation applications and welcome a new member.

• Tax billing entered by department on 6/11/2025 and mailed by July 1
• Determination of percentages for crumbling foundation applications
• Inspection and percentage entry for new construction
• Status of open non-benefited Admin Assessor position (19 hours)
• Introduction of new board member Brian Green

Planning Board

The Planning Board will nominate its Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk and discuss filling a vacancy left by Britton Bradford. The board will also receive updates on the Mass Tree Holdings project and the interim town planner hiring process.

• Board re-organization for Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Mass Tree Holdings project update following special permit extension
• Discussion on filling the vacancy left by Britton Bradford
• Resident concern regarding erosion at 140 Pommogussett Rd.
• Recommendation of a board member as CMRPC delegate for FY2026

The board unanimously approved the minutes from May 27, 2025 and then unanimously voted to table the board re‑organization until the next meeting. Norm directed staff to advertise the planning board vacancy to the public through June 24. The board scheduled a joint site visit with the Conservation Commission for the erosion issue on June 14 and agreed to place a fence‑related concern on the next agenda. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved May 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled board re‑organization until next meeting (unanimous)
• Directed advertisement of board vacancy to public through June 24
• Scheduled joint site visit for erosion concerns on June 14
• Placed fence concern on next agenda for further discussion
• Motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board and Board of Public Works will meet to discuss the selection process for a new Town Administrator and the current status of Wachusett Rd. The board will also vote on several administrative requests and licenses.

• Discussion of Wachusett Rd. status and future plan
• One-day liquor license for Seven Saws Brewing for June 20th concert
• Donation and license agreement for Community Grief Garden, Hope Lives Here
• Street sign request for the intersection of River Rd. and Route 68
• Request for a designated Veteran's parking spot at Town Hall

The Select Board approved the Treasury warrant and payroll, sent Wachusett Road documentation to Town Counsel, and approved several public‑safety and community items including a flashing stop sign, a one‑day liquor license, a veterans‑preferred parking sign, and a donation & license agreement for a grief garden. It also authorized the interim Town Administrator to draft an RFP to hire a search firm for a permanent Town Administrator.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 25‑25 and payroll PW25‑25 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 27, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved, but did not release, Executive Session minutes on Wachusett Rd. matter (unanimous)
• Approved and released Executive Session minutes on Interim Town Administrator contract (unanimous)
• Sent Wachusett Rd. documentation to Town Counsel for review (unanimous)
• Approved installation of flashing stop sign at River Rd. & Route 68 using existing signage (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Seven Saws Brewing on June 20 (unanimous)
• Approved veterans‑preferred parking sign at Town Hall (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to discuss the Central Mass Mosquito Control Project curbside pickup. The board will also nominate a Chair, Vice-chair, and Clerk.

• Central Mass Mosquito Control Project curbside pickup
• Nomination of Chair, Vice-chair, and Clerk

The Board unanimously accepted the April 7, 2025 minutes. Members were nominated and approved as Chairman (Scott Gilroy), Vice‑Chair (Karin Prucnal) and Clerk (Elliott Nadeau). The Board signed the previously approved single‑hauler curbside pickup proposal. A mosquito‑control project was discussed but no recommendation was made.

• Accepted April 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Nominated Scott Gilroy as Chairman (unanimous)
• Nominated Karin Prucnal as Vice‑chair (unanimous)
• Nominated Elliott Nadeau as Clerk (unanimous)
• Signed single‑hauler curbside pickup proposal (unanimous)

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission will meet to discuss the composition of the commission. The body will specifically address the expiration of Paul Jolie's term and another vacant seat.

• Discussion of commission make-up
• Expiration of Paul Jolie's term
• Discussion of other vacant seat

The commission unanimously approved the May 1, 2025 minutes. It voted to request that the Select Board reduce RDIC membership from six to five members. It also authorized Dick Williams to clear work on RDIC property, advised the Select Board that the commission sees no value in three tax‑title parcels, postponed the next meeting to July 8, and adjourned at 6:45 P.M.

• Approved May 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Requested Select Board reduce RDIC membership from 6 to 5 members (unanimous)
• Authorized Dick Williams to clear/work on RDIC property at his discretion (unanimous)
• Informed Select Board that RDIC sees no value in retaining three tax‑title parcels (unanimous)
• Postponed next meeting to Tuesday, July 8 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:45 P.M. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings for property requests at Pleasantdale Rd. and Barre Paxton Rd. The board will also begin drafting wetland regulations and discuss a revolving fund.

• Certificate of Compliance request for 223 Pleasantdale Rd.
• Determination of Applicability request for 213 Barre Paxton Rd.
• Erosion concerns at 140 Pommogussett Rd.
• Erosion concerns on Route 56 at Moulton Pond Dam
• Drafting of Wetland Regulations and Revolving Fund discussion

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously voted to issue a Certificate of Compliance for the property at 223 Pleasantdale Road, allowing the builder to close out its permit. No other actions were decided; remaining items were noted for future follow‑up.

• Approved May 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 223 Pleasantdale Rd (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Fourth of July Committee

The Fourth of July Committee will meet to elect a new Secretary and review the schedule of events. The body will also discuss vendor agreements and fundraising updates.

• Election of a new Secretary
• Approval and discussion of vendor agreements
• Approval of Schedule of Events
• Financial update and fundraising ideas
• Payment of invoices

The committee selected Karen Greenwood as secretary and accepted the secretary's report with a single amendment. All vendor applications, including four non‑profits and several food trucks, were approved. The revised schedule of events was accepted, and the chair was tasked with contacting a public requester for clarification. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.

• Karen Greenwood selected as secretary (unanimous)
• Secretary report accepted with amendment (unanimous)
• All 13 vendor applications approved (including Cub Scouts Pack 141, Lion’s Club, 1st Congregational Church, Historical Society, Moraski, Flippin’ the Bird, Baked All Day, Trevete A Proboar, Shaday, Fired up Pizza, Potato Potato, Lilac Hedge, 7 Saws, Breeze Sweet Treats)
• Revised schedule of events accepted (unanimous)
• Chair to contact public requester for donation list clarification
• Committee adjourned at 9:00 p.m. (unanimous)

Events Committee

The Events Committee will meet to review financial reports and membership updates. The body will discuss the Concert Series, Maker's Market, and a proposed Food Truck Festival.

• Concert Series
• Maker's Market
• Food Truck Festival
• Financial Reports

The Events Committee voted to allow First Congo Church to attend every summer concert and assigned them a spot on the concert map. The committee also unanimously approved a fundraising jug sign, sponsor assignments for most concert dates, and the Moses Howe award announcement at the first concert. Several financial expenditures—including band fees, t‑shirts, police detail and portable restroom costs—were approved unanimously.

• Approved Congo Church participation at all summer concerts (vote passed)
• Approved fundraising jug/sign at concerts (unanimous)
• Approved concert sponsor assignments except 8/22 & 9/5 (unanimous)
• Approved Moses Howe award announcement at first concert (unanimous)
• Approved band expense payments per 2025 Concert Series spreadsheet (unanimous)
• Approved t‑shirt expense for sponsors and committee members (unanimous)
• Approved police detail and portable restroom expenses (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Rutland Finance Committee will convene a joint meeting with the Select Board to discuss the committee's use of town counsel and any other business not anticipated within 48 hours of the meeting. The meeting is scheduled for May 27, 2025, at 6:45 P.M. in the Rutland Public Library's Lower Level.

Select Board

The Select Board and Board of Public Works will interview a candidate for the Interim Town Administrator position and consider signing an employment agreement. The board will also review committee appointments and a water charge abatement request.

• Interview and approval of employment agreement for Interim Town Administrator
• Review of request to abate water charges
• Ratification of Finance Committee appointments for Ted Purcell, Carol Benoit, and Ludwig Haber
• Appointment of Municipal Representative to Wachusett Regional School District School Committee
• Approval of Treasury Warrants 25-24 and 25-PW24

The Select Board approved the Treasury Warrant 25‑24 and adopted the May 10 and May 13 meeting minutes. It accepted a resignation and appointed new members to the Bylaw, Events, and Economic Development commissions. The Board unanimously appointed David DeManche as interim Town Administrator and denied a $5,000 water‑abatement request. It also agreed to review the Town Counsel policy and to change alternate members to full members on the Economic Development Commission.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 25‑24 (unanimous)
• Adopted May 10 and May 13 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Britton Bradford from CIPC (unanimous)
• Appointed Lionel Carbonneau to Bylaw Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Harriet Klayman to Events Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed David DeManche as interim Town Administrator (unanimous)
• Denied $5,000 water‑abatement request (unanimous)
• Changed alternate members to full members on Economic Development Commission (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board and Board of Public Works will interview a candidate for the Interim Town Administrator position and act on an employment agreement. The board will also consider several committee appointments and a water abatement request.

• Interview and approval of employment agreement for Interim Town Administrator
• Ratification of Ted Purcell, Carol Benoit, and Ludwig Haber to the Finance Committee
• Review of request to abate water charges
• Appointment of Municipal Representative to Wachusett Regional School District School Committee
• Approval of Treasury Warrants 25-24 and 25-PW 24

The Select Board finalized the employment agreement for interim Town Administrator David DeManche. They approved a $50 per month cell‑phone reimbursement, set his work schedule at 6 office hours Monday‑Wednesday and 4 remote hours Thursday, and moved his start date to June 2, 2025. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved $50 monthly cell phone reimbursement (unanimous)
• Specified employment hours: 6 office hrs Mon‑Wed, 4 remote hrs Thu (unanimous)
• Changed start date to June 2, 2025 (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will meet May 27 at 6:30 p.m. in the Public Library lower level to review meeting minutes, discuss board restructuring, and hear updates on a special permit and a site plan. No decisions are scheduled; items may be discussed or postponed.

• Discussion of Planning Board restructuring and Charter Committee appointment
• Special Permit Update for 79 Main Street, Mass Tree Holdings, LLC
• Discussion of Lilac Hedge Site Plan Approval
• Update on Interim Town Planner Process

The Planning Board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 13, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously voted to postpone the board re‑organization discussion until the next meeting. The session was then unanimously adjourned at 7:25 P.M.

• Approved minutes of May 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Tabled board re‑organization until next meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to nominate a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. The body will also discuss follow-up items from the Annual Town Meeting and the committee's use of Town Counsel.

• Committee re-organization to nominate Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Annual Town Meeting follow-up and use of Town Counsel
• Acknowledgment of Alex Mowatt's resignation
• Acknowledgment of Town Moderator appointments of Ted Purcell, Carol Benoit, and Ludwig Haber

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the May 8 and May 10 meetings. It appointed Carol Benoit and Ludwig Haber as new members and re‑appointed Ted Purcell, pending ratification at the May 27 Select Board meeting. The committee decided to meet on July 1 to reorganize its chair, vice‑chair and clerk, and unanimously supported attending the May 27 Select Board meeting to discuss future use of Town Counsel. The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 P.M. with a unanimous vote.

• Approved minutes of May 8, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 10, 2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Carol Benoit and Ludwig Haber as new members; re‑appointed Ted Purcell (pending ratification)
• Decided to hold Finance Committee meeting on July 1 to nominate Chair, Vice Chair and Clerk
• Supported attendance at May 27 Select Board meeting to discuss use of Town Counsel (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:23 P.M. (unanimous)

Town Charter Committee

The Town Charter Committee will meet to review and update a survey. The committee will also continue discussions regarding the Town Charter.

• Survey review and update
• Discussion of Town Charter

The committee approved the minutes from the May 8, 2025 meeting by a motion from Ryan, seconded by an unnamed member, with all members voting in favor. No other actions were voted on; the group discussed survey details, summer and fall information sessions, charter formatting questions, and a special act concerning recall of elected officials. The next meeting is scheduled for June 11 at 6:30 p.m.

• Approved May 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will review reports from the Secretary, Director, and Children's department. The board will discuss old business regarding fees and building maintenance, as well as new business concerning staff, security, and the capital plan.

• Discussion of cable, meeting space, and fees
• Review of building maintenance and budget
• Discussion of the Long Range Plan
• Review of building security
• Discussion of budget, impact, hours, and capital plan

The Rutland Library Board accepted the April secretary’s report with minor revisions, the April director’s report, and the April children’s director’s report. It reported no updates on several old‑business items and will continue reviewing library policies, including the meeting‑room policy, in June. The Board noted the library’s budget of $282,969, upcoming service reductions, and plans to seek a state‑certification waiver and finalize reduced hours in June.

• Approved secretary’s April report with minor revisions (motion passed, seconded)
• Approved director’s April report (motion passed, seconded)
• Approved children’s director April report (motion passed, seconded)
• Decided to continue reviewing library policies, including meeting‑room policy, in June
• Planned to create a work plan for the MASSCAT to CWMARS transition (suggested by chair)
• Will seek a waiver from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for state certification
• Will finalize reduced library hours and meeting‑space schedule in June

Board of Appeals

The Rutland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a site plan review for Michael Bashkhangy’s proposed dog kennel at 147 Pleasantdale Rd. The meeting is scheduled for May 21, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. in the lower level of the Rutland Public Library. Remote attendance options via Zoom are also provided.

• Public hearing on dog kennel site plan review for 147 Pleasantdale Rd
• Proposed by Michael Bashkhangy under Town of Rutland Zoning Bylaws, Article III, §8

Board of Appeals

The Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a site plan application for a dog kennel business. The board will also discuss the re-appointment of three members whose terms expire June 30, 2025.

• Site Plan Review for dog kennel business at 147 Pleasantdale Rd. (Michael Bashkhangy)
• Discussion of FY2026 re-appointments for David Lussier, Arthur Wells, and Elliott (Butch) Nadeau

The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 9, 2025 meeting. It then approved the site‑plan application for a dog‑kennel business at 147 Pleasantdale Road, including a 6‑foot screened fence and vegetation buffer. The Board also unanimously recommended re‑appointing three members and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved April 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous, Butch abstain)
• Closed public hearing on 147 Pleasantdale Rd. site plan (unanimous)
• Approved dog‑kennel site plan at 147 Pleasantdale Rd., with 6‑foot fence and vegetation (unanimous)
• Recommended re‑appointment of Arthur Wells, Butch Nadeau, and David Lussier (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous at 6:47 P.M.)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will meet to review old business and new initiatives. Discussions include solar projects, local events, and the town's business list.

• Heidi Trotter/Volt Seed Solar
• Review of May 5 Networking Event
• Farmers Market
• Recap of Expo
• Business List and Alternate Members

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the March 19 meeting. It voted to hold a networking fundraiser on July 14 at Lilac Hedge with a $25 fee per attendee. The board also approved sending a recommendation to the Events Committee for a Friday‑night farmer’s market and reappointed Faith Mayer and Sabrina Heiniluoma as full members. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved March 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 14 networking fundraiser at Lilac Hedge, $25 per person (unanimous)
• Approved letter of recommendation to Events Committee for Friday‑night farmer’s market (unanimous)
• Reappointed Faith Mayer as full member (unanimous)
• Reappointed Sabrina Heiniluoma as full member (unanimous)
• Decided to send letter to Selectboard to consider changing alternate members to full members (unanimous)
• Decided to request Carol Benoit attend next EDC meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Agricultural Commission

The Agricultural Commission will meet to discuss updates on a Greenhouse Project and coordination with Glenwood Elementary School. The body will also review school programs and Fourth of July participation.

• Greenhouse Project construction updates and coordination with Glenwood Elementary School
• Follow up on school programs
• Fourth of July participation

The commission accepted the minutes from the April 15 meeting. It approved a letter to the Select Board to determine if the greenhouse fund is entitled to its accrued interest. The body also approved a thank‑you note to Ketonen Clark Farm for a chick‑starter donation and scheduled chair, vice‑chair and clerk elections for the June 17 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 8:28 PM.

• Accepted minutes from 4/15/25 (unanimous)
• Approved letter to Select Board regarding greenhouse fund interest (unanimous)
• Approved thank‑you note to Ketonen Clark Farm for donation (unanimous)
• Scheduled chair/vice‑chair/clerk elections for 6/17/25
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review several applications for determinations of applicability and certificates of compliance. The body will hold continued public hearings regarding notices of intent for two lots on Brintnal Drive. Members will also discuss FY2026 re-appointments.

• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for C.B. Blair Dev. Corp. at Brintnal Drive (Lot 9R)
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for C.B. Blair Dev. Corp. at Brintnal Drive (Lot 10)
• Request for Determination of Applicability for J. Skrzypczak at 322 Main St.
• Request for Determination of Applicability for James Hansson at Glenwood Rd.
• Discussion of MassDEP siltation concerns at Miles Rd./Depot Rd.

The Conservation Commission approved the Order of Conditions for Brintnal Dr. Lot 9R and Lot 10, allowing construction with specified erosion‑control and utility provisions. Negative determinations with special conditions were approved for the 322 Main St. and Glenwood Rd. applications. The commission unanimously recommended re‑appointments for George Farrington and Jared Gentilucci. All motions passed with the recorded roll‑call votes.

• Approved Order of Conditions for Brintnal Dr. Lot 9R (vote unanimous)
• Approved Order of Conditions for Brintnal Dr. Lot 10 (vote unanimous)
• Approved negative determination for 322 Main St. with special condition (vote unanimous)
• Approved negative determination for Glenwood Rd. (Parcel 64‑A‑1) with special conditions (vote unanimous)
• Recommended re‑appointment of George Farrington (vote unanimous)
• Recommended re‑appointment of Jared Gentilucci (vote: Brian yea, Jared abstain, Glenda yes, Melissa yea, Skip yea, Tim yea)
• Approved minutes of May 6, 2025 (vote unanimous)
• Closed public hearings for Brintnal Dr. Lot 9R and Lot 10 (vote unanimous)

Council on Aging

This is a routine meeting of the Rutland Council on Aging. The board will approve minutes from April 17, hear the Director’s Report and an Elder Services Board update, get a Pen Pal Program update, and discuss reactions to the recent Finance Meeting, Annual Meeting, and election results. No votes on ordinances or contracts with dollar amounts are scheduled.

• Approval of April 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director’s Report on senior services
• Elder Services Board Report
• Pen Pal Program update
• Discussion of Finance Meeting, Annual Meeting, and election results

The council unanimously accepted the minutes from the previous month. It discussed building policies, added afternoon activities, and reported on recent events such as the Mystery Luncheon and upcoming Volunteer Appreciation Lunch. The June meeting was rescheduled from June 19 to June 26 at 10:00 a.m. because of the Juneteenth holiday.

• Accepted previous month’s minutes (unanimous)
• Rescheduled June meeting to June 26 at 10:00 a.m. (due to Juneteenth holiday)

Events Committee

The Events Committee will meet to evaluate Earth Day and discuss the concert series and membership recruitment. The committee is also considering a new fundraising idea for a Makers Market.

• Earth Day Evaluation
• Concert Series discussion
• Membership Recruitment
• Makers Market fundraising idea
• Financial Reports

The Events Committee voted unanimously to move forward with a Maker's Market, charging each vendor $25 and scheduling the first event for July 5, 2025. The committee also denied the Woo Sox mascot request, approved the prior meeting minutes, and approved a letter to reappoint Sondra Thomas and add Harriet Klayman as a new member. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Maker's Market plan with $25 vendor fee, first event July 5 (unanimous)
• Denied Woo Sox mascot request without $1,500 sponsorship pledge (unanimous)
• Approved 4.30.25 meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Approved letter to reappoint Sondra Thomas and recommend Harriet Klayman as new member (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will hold a regular meeting to receive reports from the secretary, director, and children's librarian. Old business includes discussion of cable/meeting space fees, building maintenance and budget, MASSCAT, events, and the long-range plan. New business covers policy, staff, incidents, the budget/capital plan, and building security. The agenda is largely procedural with no specific votes or dollar amounts listed.

• Discussion of cable/meeting space/fees
• Building maintenance and budget
• MASSCAT
• Long Range Plan
• Budget/Capital plan and building security

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing to consider a petition from National Grid and Verizon to install a joint utility pole on East County Road. The pole location is approximately 1,152 feet northwest of the intersection of Michael Drive. The meeting will be held in person at the Rutland Public Library with remote options available.

• Public hearing on petition to install joint utility pole on East County Rd by Massachusetts Electric Company d.b.a. National Grid and Verizon New England, Inc.

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to elect its Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk. The board will also discuss the process for an interim Town Administrator and a parking services intermunicipal agreement requested by the Police Chief.

• Election of Board Officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, Clerk)
• Parking Services Intermunicipal Agreement request from Police Chief
• Discussion on next steps for Interim Town Administrator process
• Letter of Support for CMRPC Local Technical Assistance Hours
• Acceptance of Tim Nahrwold's resignation as CMRPC Select Board Delegate

The board approved a perpetual intermunicipal agreement with Plymouth County for parking ticket services, effective May 1, 2025, with Plymouth receiving $2 per ticket. The board reorganized, electing Jen Leger as Chair (3-2), Paul Mattson as Vice Chair (unanimous), and Leah Whiteman as Clerk (unanimous). The board also accepted Tim Nahrwold’s resignation, approved Treasury Warrant 25‑23, and authorized a letter of support for CMRPC funding.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 25‑23 (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Tim Nahrwold as Select Board delegate to CMRPC (unanimous)
• Nominated Jen Leger as Chair (3-2 vote)
• Nominated Paul Mattson as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Leah Whiteman as Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved intermunicipal parking ticket agreement with Plymouth County (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support to CMRPC for state technical assistance funding (unanimous)
• Authorized invitation to interim Town Administrator candidate “DD” to May 27 meeting (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will conduct a site visit at Rutland Prison Camp to observe signage, structures, and gate posts, weather permitting. Following the visit, the commission will reconvene at Franklin T. Wood Studio to discuss updates on the prison camp, progress on the Wood House and Studio application for State/National Register placement, planning for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and preservation options for historic properties removed from Chapter 61A.

• Site visit at Rutland Prison Camp (off Intervale Road) to assess conditions of signage, structures, and gate posts
• Update on Wood House and Studio application to Mass. Historical Commission for State/National Register placement
• Discussion of 250th anniversary of Declaration of Independence plans in collaboration with Rutland Historical Society
• Discussion of preservation options and tools for historic properties removed from Mass. Chapter 61A
• Update on town historical properties inventory

The Rutland Historical Commission unanimously approved the April 8, 2025 meeting minutes. The planned site visit to Prison Camp was postponed to the June meeting, and related observations were moved to a future agenda. Commission member Jen announced she will not seek re‑appointment, and the board will consider new candidates at the June 10 meeting. Updates on annual goals and several project items were also deferred to June.

• Approved 04/08/2025 minutes (unanimous aye)
• Postponed Prison Camp site visit to June meeting (5 pm)
• Postponed observations from site visit to next agenda
• Postponed annual goals update to June meeting
• Jen will not seek re‑appointment (announced)
• Commission will vote on new candidates at June 10 meeting
• No new updates on Wood House National Register application
• No significant updates on historical properties (no action)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss a special permit update for property at 79 Main Street (Mass Tree Holdings, LLC), consider restructuring the board, and review a site plan for a dog kennel at a ZBA public hearing. Other items include a town planner transition plan, correspondence on resignations and CMRPC delegates, and reports. The meeting includes public comment and adjournment.

• Special Permit Update - 79 Main Street, Mass Tree Holdings, LLC
• Discussion - Planning Board Restructuring
• Discussion and Comments - ZBA Public Hearing (Site Plan Review for Dog Kennel)
• Discussion - Town Planner Transition Plan
• Correspondence - Resignation and CMRPC Delegates

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 22, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously voted to table the board re‑organization until the next meeting. The board agreed that Norm Anderson and Alexander Maus will interview candidates for the interim town planner position. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:22 p.m.

• Approved April 22, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled board re‑organization until next meeting (unanimous)
• Agreed Norm Anderson and Alexander Maus will interview interim planner candidates (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will convene for a meeting that is largely procedural. The only new business item is a discussion related to the Annual Town Meeting, as needed. No specific votes, financial amounts, or other concrete actions are listed.

• Discussion of Annual Town Meeting agenda and logistics (no specific items listed)

The committee agreed not to use a prepared PowerPoint and will give a brief financial summary. A motion was made to amend the operating budget to fund non‑union COLA, step and contracted raises using $96,778 of free cash. The committee voted unanimously to indefinitely postpone the Budget Transfer article. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Agreed not to use the PowerPoint for the Town Reports (decision made, no vote recorded)
• Motion to amend the operating budget to fund non‑union positions with $96,778 free cash (motion made, no vote recorded)
• Unanimously postponed Article 3 – Budget Transfer indefinitely (unanimous vote)
• Unanimously adjourned the meeting (unanimous vote)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss matters related to the Annual Town Meeting. The board is also reviewing interdepartmental transfer requests for fiscal year 2025.

• Discussion regarding Annual Town Meeting
• FY2025 Interdepartmental Transfer Requests

The Finance Committee had approved five interdepartmental transfer requests on May 8. The Select Board unanimously approved each transfer, moving funds between specified accounts. The meeting was then adjourned at 5:45 p.m.

• Approved $9,300 transfer from Health Insurance to Medicare (5-0)
• Approved $5,400 transfer from Health Insurance to Treasury Col. Purchased Services (5-0)
• Approved $2,500 transfer from Health Insurance to Tax Title Purchased Services (5-0)
• Approved $4,500 transfer from Health Insurance to Postage Supplies (5-0)
• Approved $50 transfer from Treasurer Other Charges to Life Insurance (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:45 p.m. (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss Warrant Articles 11 and 12 from the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. No other specific business is listed beyond this discussion and any unforeseen items. The meeting is open to the public in person.

• Discussion of Warrant Articles 11 & 12 from the Annual Town Meeting Warrant

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will meet on May 10, 2025, to discuss Warrant Articles 11 and 12 from the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda. The meeting is in-person at 65 Glenwood Rd.

• Discussion of Warrant Articles 11 & 12 from the Annual Town Meeting Warrant

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the FY2026 budget and warrant articles for the Annual Town Meeting. The committee will also review interdepartmental transfer requests for FY2025.

• FY2025 Interdepartmental Transfer Requests
• FY2026 Budget Discussion
• Discussion of Warrant Articles for Annual Town Meeting

The committee approved several interdepartmental fund transfers, unanimously. It voted 6‑1 to remove the proposed amendment to the WRSD school budget and 6‑1 to recommend an unfavorable action on Article 9. It also approved using $96,778 of free cash to fund all non‑union salary and cost‑of‑living increases.

• Approved FY2025 interdepartmental transfer of $9,300 from Health Insurance to Medicare (unanimous)
• Approved FY2025 interdepartmental transfer of $5,400 from Health Insurance to Treasurer/Collector Purchased Services (unanimous)
• Approved FY2025 interdepartmental transfer of $2,500 from Health Insurance to Tax Title Purchased Services (unanimous)
• Approved FY2025 interdepartmental transfer of $4,500 from Health Insurance to Postage supplies (unanimous)
• Approved FY2025 interdepartmental transfer of $50 from Treasurer Other Charges to Life Insurance (unanimous)
• Motion to remove the amendment to the WRSD budget on Town Meeting floor passed 6‑1
• Motion to recommend unfavorable action on Article 9 passed 6‑1
• Motion to fund all non‑union salary increases with $96,778 free cash passed unanimously

Town Charter Committee

The Town Charter Committee will approve minutes from its April 10 and April 24 meetings, then proceed to review the draft charter and continue its discussion. The meeting is open to the public.

• Approval of April 10, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of April 24, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review draft and continued discussion of Town Charter

The Rutland Town Charter Committee approved the minutes from the April 10 and April 24 meetings. The committee also reviewed the charter draft up to Article V and discussed plans for community information sessions and a charter survey. No further actions were voted on.

• Approved April 10 meeting minutes (First Tim, Second Ryan)
• Approved April 24 meeting minutes (First Michelle, Second Tim)

Bylaw Committee

The Bylaw Committee will meet to discuss recommendations for a new member and the addition of pending bylaws to the town website. The committee will also review old business regarding wetlands, earthworks, and storm water bylaws.

• Vote recommendation for Lionel Carbonneau as new member of Bylaw Committee
• Discussion of Wetlands Bylaw
• Discussion of Community Preservation Act
• Discussion of Earthworks Bylaw
• Discussion of Storm Water Bylaw

The committee approved the minutes of the April 10, 2025 meeting with the requested changes. A motion to recommend Lionel Carbonneau as a new member of the Bylaw Committee was approved unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes of 4/10/2025 meeting with changes (unanimous)
• Recommended Lionel Carbonneau for Bylaw Committee (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Fourth of July Committee

The Rutland Fourth of July Committee will convene to discuss the schedule of events, review fundraising outcomes and financial updates, and consider new vendor agreements and invoices. The meeting is open to the public and will be held in person at the Wood Studio.

• Discussion of schedule of events for the Fourth of July celebration
• Review of fundraising outcomes and financial update
• Continued fundraising ideas
• Vendor agreements
• Invoices to be paid, if any

The committee voted unanimously to require out‑of‑town vendors at Memorial Field to submit a sign‑up letter and a $1,000 fee to secure a spot for this year’s events. Vendors who do not provide the letter and fee will be barred from the field. The meeting was then adjourned at 8:15 p.m. with unanimous approval.

• Adopt vendor sign‑up letter policy with $1,000 fee (unanimous)
• Bar vendors lacking letter and fee from Memorial Field (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting at 8:15 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will discuss routine items including approval of April 2025 meeting minutes, an open Admin Assessor position (19 hours, non-benefited, still posted), and a second motor vehicle excise commitment of $209,048.33 mailed April 28 and due May 28. They also entered MDM1 forms for reimbursement. The meeting is in person at the Assessors Office.

• Approval of April 2025 meeting minutes
• Open Admin Assessor position (19 hrs/week, non-benefited, posted)
• Second motor vehicle excise commitment of $209,048.33 mailed April 28, due May 28
• MDM1 reimbursement forms entered
• Second letter for I&E's mailed

The Board approved the minutes from the April 2025 meeting. It noted that the administrative assessor position remains open and must be posted on the union bulletin board before a public posting. The board received a second MV commitment of $209,048.33 and a crumbling‑foundation application, with an inspection to be scheduled. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved April 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review requests for certificates of compliance and determinations of applicability. The body will hold public hearings regarding notices of intent for two lots on Brintnal Drive.

• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for C.B. Blair Dev. Corp., Brintnal Drive (Lot 9R)
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for C.B. Blair Dev. Corp., Brintnal Dr. (Lot 10)
• Request for Determination of Applicability: James Hansson, Glenwood Rd. (64-A-1)
• Request for Certificate of Compliance: Jeffrey Shea, 61 Pommogussett Rd.
• Request for Certificate of Compliance: Meghan McIntire, 35 Prescott St.

The Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting. It voted unanimously to issue a Certificate of Compliance for 61 Pommogussett Rd. The commission also postponed the determination of applicability for Glenwood Rd. and public hearings for two C.B. Blair Development lots to the May 20, 2025 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes of April 15, 2025 (5-0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 61 Pommogussett Rd. (5-0)
• Continued Determination of Applicability for Glenwood Rd. to May 20 meeting (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for C.B. Blair Development Lot 9R to May 20, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for C.B. Blair Development Lot 10 to May 20, 2025 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Finance Committee

The Rutland Finance Committee will convene for a public information session on the proposed FY2026 budget. The agenda lists only this item under new business, with no scheduled votes or decisions.

• Public Information Session for FY2026 Budget

Select Board

The Select Board is convening a public information session to discuss the proposed FY2026 budget. No formal votes or other business items are listed on the agenda.

• Public Information Session for FY2026 Budget

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission will review updates on Harmony Place and the clearing of trees on town property. The body will also review a draft from the Open Space Committee regarding land parcel prioritization.

• Updates on Harmony Place
• Update on clearing of trees on town property following Select Board meeting
• Review of Open Space Committee draft on land parcel prioritization
• Business Networking Event on Monday, May 5th

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting. It directed the Town Administrator to work with forester Ross Hubacz to draft a request for proposals for a forestry management plan on the large parcel on Route 68. The commission also unanimously moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:14 p.m.

• Approved April 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Directed Town Administrator to draft RFP for forestry management plan on Route 68 (decision made)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Rutland Library Board of Trustees will convene to discuss the library budget in preparation for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. This is the only substantive item on the agenda; no other business is listed.

• Budget discussion for Annual Town Meeting

The trustees discussed the library's FY25 budget, noting an $35,976 (11.65%) reduction. They agreed to prepare a statement for the May 10 town meeting outlining service and staffing impacts. They also pledged to locate funds in the FY26 operating budget to cover cost‑of‑living raises for library employees.

• Prepare a statement for the May 10 town meeting detailing budget impacts (no vote recorded)
• Identify FY26 operating‑budget funds to cover employee cost‑of‑living raises (no vote recorded)

Fourth of July Committee

The Fourth of July Committee will discuss a financial update and the potential cancellation of events due to the account balance. Other agenda items include a yard sale report, recap of fireworks location discussions with the Fire Marshall and Pyrotecnico, and continued fundraising ideas. The committee will also review invoices and correspondence.

• Discussion of potential cancellation of events due to account balance
• Recap of meeting with Fire Marshall and Pyrotecnico about fireworks location
• Yard Sale Report
• Fundraising outcome and financial update
• Continued fundraising ideas

The committee voted to move forward with the 2025 Fourth of July events even though the account shows a $12,000 shortfall. The motion was seconded by Caroline and passed with six members in favor (Ben, Amy, Kyle, Caroline, Cindy, Colin) and two members opposed (Deb, Karen). The committee also approved payment of the Clark Mailing invoice for printing and mailing the resident letter and related yard‑sale expense reimbursements.

• Motion to continue 2025 Fourth of July events passed (Ben, Amy, Kyle, Caroline, Cindy, Colin in favor; Deb, Karen opposed; seconded by Caroline)
• Approved payment of Clark Mailing invoice for resident letter printing, mailing, and yard‑sale expense reimbursements

Events Committee

The Events Committee will review the Community Expo and discuss details for Earth Day and the Concert Series. The body will also review financial reports and membership recruitment.

• Community Expo evaluation
• Earth Day details
• Concert Series discussion
• Financial reports review
• Membership recruitment

The Events Committee approved the March 20, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. The committee then adjourned the meeting, also by unanimous consent. No other formal actions were taken during this session.

• Approved 3.20.25 meeting minutes – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

Agricultural Commission

The Rutland Agricultural Commission will discuss hosting a Candidate's Night as the only new business item. No old business or minutes are on the agenda. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Hosting Candidate's Night as only new business item

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a regular meeting with several action items, including approval of warrants and minutes, appointments to the 4th of July Committee, and one-day liquor license applications. Discussion items include a pet food pantry proposal, tree removal on town-owned property, a school district maintenance agreement, a stormwater coalition intermunicipal agreement, the Town Administrator transition process, and FY2025 year-end spending controls.

• Approval of Treasury Warrants 25-22 & 25-PW22
• Appointments to 4th of July Committee: Karen Greenwood, Desiree Mangum, Cindy Purcell
• One-day liquor license applications: Seven Saws Brewing (July 3) and Dolce Vita (Summer Concerts)
• Approve one-year Wachusett Regional School District Maintenance Agreement
• Approve three-year Central Massachusetts Regional Stormwater Coalition Intermunicipal Agreement

The Select Board approved the Treasury warrant and payroll, authorized a pet food pantry on Town property, and gave the RDIC and Town Administrator permission to draft a tree‑removal scope. It also approved one‑day liquor licenses for Dolce Vita Catering Co. and Seven Saws, ratified the FY2026 school‑district maintenance agreement and a 3‑year stormwater coalition agreement, and recommended a 3% ($350,000) turnback of the FY2025 operating budget.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 25-22 and payroll PW25-22 (unanimous)
• Approved installation of a pet food pantry on Town property (unanimous)
• Authorized RDIC and Town Administrator to draft a scope of work for tree removal (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day liquor licenses for Dolce Vita Catering Co. for summer concerts (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Seven Saws for July 4 events (unanimous)
• Approved FY2026 Wachusett Regional School District maintenance agreement (unanimous)
• Approved 3‑year intermunicipal agreement with Central Mass Stormwater Coalition (unanimous)
• Recommended a 3% ($350,000) turnback of FY2025 operating budget (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Rutland Finance Committee will discuss the FY2026 town budget and review warrant articles for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. The meeting will also consider approving the minutes from April 17, 2025.

• Discussion of FY2026 Budget
• Discussion of Warrant Articles for Annual Town Meeting
• Approval of April 17, 2025 meeting minutes

The committee voted 4‑yea to 3‑nay to add $21,800 to the budget to fully fund the Town Planner’s salary. It then voted 5‑yea to 1‑nay (one abstention) to not recommend Article 4, the town operating budget, at the upcoming town meeting. Additional motions passed unanimously to include the Finance Committee in future financial meetings, to approve the corrected April 17 minutes, and to adjourn the session.

• Approved $21,800 addition to fund Town Planner’s salary (4 yea – 3 nay)
• Motion to reconsider deferred vote on Article 4 approved unanimously
• Voted not to recommend Article 4 (5 yea – 1 nay, 1 abstain)
• Motion to request Finance Committee be included in future financial meetings approved unanimously
• Approved April 17 minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Motion to reconsider School Budget Article 9 defeated (1 yea – 6 nay)
• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously

Select Board

The Select Board will conduct a public information session to discuss the FY2026 budget. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Public Information Session: FY2026 Budget Discussion

The Rutland Select Board voted not to pursue a $2.1 million FY2026 budget override. Instead, the board will balance the budget through cuts, using $130,000 from the OPEB Trust Fund for insurance and about $730,000 from free cash. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Voted not to pursue FY2026 budget override
• Approved use of $130,000 from OPEB Trust Fund for insurance expenses
• Approved use of approximately $730,000 free cash for budget cuts
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Town Charter Committee

The Town Charter Committee will hold a meeting to continue its discussion of the town charter. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the previous meeting and a general discussion of charter matters. No votes or specific proposals are listed.

• Continued discussion of the Town Charter

The committee did not approve any items. It continued discussion on Select Board powers, criteria for elected versus appointed positions, electoral competitiveness, department head responsibilities, and upcoming public information sessions. Meeting minutes for 4/10 and 4/24 will be reviewed at the next meeting on May 8. The meeting was adjourned by a motion from Leah, seconded by all present.

Planning Board

The Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee is meeting primarily to approve minutes from February and March 2024. The agenda contains no substantive items such as zoning changes, contracts, or public hearings — it is a procedural meeting.

• Approval of meeting minutes from February 21, 2024
• Approval of meeting minutes from March 20, 2024

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will consider an ANR application for 45B Irish Lane, a special permit extension request for 79 Main Street, and road acceptances for Brice Estates Phase 3. Discussions are also scheduled on the Brintnal Estates house lot fee and active subdivision conditions. The Town Planner will report on a pre-application meeting for an auto repair shop at 13 Pommogusett Road and provide an update on the Route 68 Rezoning Survey.

• ANR Application – 45B Irish Lane (J & K Ventures)
• Special Permit Extension Request – 79 Main Street (Mass Tree Holdings, LLC)
• Road Acceptances – Brice Estates Phase 3 (Quinn Engineering Review)
• Discussion – Brintnal Estates House Lot Fee
• Town Planner Report – 13 Pommogusett Rd auto repair shop pre-application and Route 68 Rezoning Survey update

The Board unanimously approved the minutes of the April 8, 2025 meeting and endorsed the ANR for 45B Irish Lane. It granted a special permit extension for Mass Tree Holdings from May 9, 2025 to May 9, 2027, contingent on a project update. The Board also authorized Kevin Quinn to review three street‑acceptance requests and required collection of $250 lot‑fee deposits for Brintnal Estates before street acceptance can proceed.

• Approved minutes of April 8, 2025 (unanimous)
• Endorsed ANR for 45B Irish Lane (unanimous)
• Granted special permit extension for Mass Tree Holdings to May 9, 2027, contingent on update (unanimous)
• Engaged Kevin Quinn to review three street‑acceptance requests (unanimous)
• Directed staff to collect $250 lot‑fee deposits for Brintnal Estates before street acceptance (unanimous)
• Approved Bylaw Subcommittee minutes of Feb 21, 2024 and Mar 20, 2024 (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board and Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting to discuss items for the Annual Town Meeting warrant and make recommendations. They will also hold a general discussion of the FY2026 budget as needed. The meeting is open to the public in person at the Rutland Public Library and via Zoom.

• Discussion of Annual Town Meeting Warrant Articles and possible recommendations
• General FY2026 Budget Discussion

The board recommended favorable action on Articles 1‑5 and 7‑24, and an unfavorable recommendation on Article 6. All motions passed with a unanimous vote. The board then signed the warrant containing those recommendations.

• Recommended favorable action on Articles 1‑5, 7‑24 (unanimous)
• Recommended unfavorable action on Article 6 (unanimous)
• Signed the warrant with the recommendations (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee, in a joint meeting with the Select Board, will discuss and make recommendations on the Annual Town Meeting warrant articles and hold a general discussion on the FY2026 budget. The committee will also consider approving the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting.

• Approval of April 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion and recommendations on Annual Town Meeting warrant articles
• General FY2026 budget discussion

The Rutland Finance Committee voted on all 24 warrant articles, deferring some and issuing recommendations on the rest. It recommended favorable action on several budget and capital items, unfavorable action on two articles, and passed a recall‑election recommendation by a 5‑1 vote. All votes were unanimous except the recall recommendation.

• Defer action on Article 3 (Budget Transfer) – unanimous
• Defer action on Article 4 (Town Operating Budget) – unanimous
• Recommend favorable action on Article 5 (School Maintenance Stabilization Fund) – unanimous
• Recommend unfavorable action on Article 6 (WRSD Capital Stabilization Fund) – unanimous
• Recommend favorable action on Article 7 (Town Capital Budget) – unanimous
• Recommend favorable action on Article 8 (Town Capital Budget Borrowing Authorization) – unanimous
• Recommend favorable action on Article 14 (Special Act to Recall Elected Officials) – passed 5‑1
• Make no recommendations on Articles 25 & 26 (Citizen’s Petitions) – unanimous

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will hold a regular meeting to approve March meeting minutes, discuss feedback from the Community Expo, and receive updates from the Director, Elder Services Board, and the Pen Pal Program. Members will also explore strategies to communicate the senior center's value to the community.

• Approval of March 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Community Expo feedback discussion
• Director's Report and Elder Services Board Report
• Pen Pal Program update
• Brainstorming strategies to recognize and communicate the senior center's impact

The council accepted the previous meeting's minutes as presented. The director reported that the kitchen is back in order, the floor has been finished, and a new coffee machine will arrive next week. The budget report noted that all employees have had pay decreased (except union employees) and some have reduced hours, and that many budget items such as office supplies have been cut. A suggestion was made to inform members of needed items and invite volunteer contributions.

Fourth of July Committee

The Fourth of July Committee will discuss updates on the yard sale and Grand Marshal selection, review fundraising options and finances, and consider a resident request for a dunk tank. They will also review and potentially adopt a new vendor agreement.

• Yard sale update
• Grand Marshal update
• Fundraising options and financial update
• Resident request for a dunk tank
• Review and accept a new vendor agreement

The Select Board voted to remove two members who had not attended meetings or been sworn in. The committee approved Joann B.'s request to run a dunk‑tank fundraiser during the July 4 events. A new vendor agreement was accepted with minor changes. The schedule of events was updated and a Mass Maritime tabletop exercise was set for June 3 at 1 pm.

• Select Board removed two inactive committee members
• Committee approved Dunk Tank fundraiser (motion passed, all in favor)
• Committee approved new vendor agreement with changes (motion passed, all in favor)
• Schedule of events updated to include bike parade, doll parade, road race, lip sync, and lemoande social
• Committee scheduled Mass Maritime tabletop exercise for June 3, 1 pm (location TBD)

Agricultural Commission

The Rutland Agricultural Commission will meet to discuss updates on the Greenhouse Project, including construction progress and coordination with Norfolk Agricultural High School and Glenwood Elementary School. The agenda also covers school programs such as a planting day and chicken egg hatching. This meeting is primarily for discussion and updates; no votes or decisions are listed.

• Greenhouse Project: construction updates
• Arrange transportation from Norfolk Ag HS to Rutland
• Coordinate with Glenwood Elementary School
• School programs: planting day
• School programs: chicken egg hatching

The Agricultural Commission accepted the minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. It approved sponsoring a kindergarten bulb‑planting program and acquiring bulbs for the fall. The commission also agreed to sponsor the 2025 Meet the Candidates Night at the library on February 29. Other items, such as a land‑preservation fund request and 61a tax concerns, were discussed but not decided.

• Accepted minutes from 3/18/25 (motion by Randy, seconded by Bob, unanimous)
• Approved sponsorship of kindergarten bulb planting and acquisition of bulbs (motion by Randy, seconded by Natalie, unanimous)
• AgCom to sponsor Meet the Candidates Night 2025 at the library on 2/29/25 (no vote recorded)
• No other formal actions taken; discussed land‑preservation fund request and 61a tax issues

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss the assessors' budget with Austin Cyganiewicz. Other agenda items include approval of minutes and old business. The meeting is open to the public in person.

• Discuss Assessors Budget with Austin Cyganiewicz

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold continued public hearings for two Notices of Intent by Simac Realty Trust for Lots 6 and 7 on Emerald Road. It will also review Requests for Determination of Applicability for properties at 7 Apache Trail and 61 Pommogussett Road, and a Certificate of Compliance request at 61 Pommogussett Road.

• Public Hearing (continued): Notice of Intent – Simac Realty Trust, Emerald Rd. (Lot 6)
• Public Hearing (continued): Notice of Intent – Simac Realty Trust, Emerald Rd. (Lot 7)
• Request for Determination of Applicability – Christine Homewood, 7 Apache Trail
• Request for Determination of Applicability – Jeffrey Shea, 61 Pommogussett Rd.
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – Jeffrey Shea, 61 Pommogussett Rd.

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the April 1 meeting. It issued negative determinations with a special condition for the septic applications at 7 Apache Trail and 61 Pommogussett Rd. It also closed public hearings and issued Orders of Conditions with a special deed‑restriction condition for Simac Realty Trust’s Emerald Rd. Lot 6 and Lot 7. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved April 1 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Issued negative determination with special condition for 7 Apache Trail (unanimous)
• Issued negative determination with special condition for 61 Pommogussett Rd (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing and issued Order of Conditions with deed‑restriction for Emerald Rd. Lot 6 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing and issued Order of Conditions with deed‑restriction for Emerald Rd. Lot 7 (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a continued discussion of the FY2026 budget and conduct a second review of the draft Annual Town Meeting warrant. Several action items are on the agenda, including certification of seasonal liquor licenses, proposed changes to inspectional services fees, a proposal for a community grief garden on town property, and adoption of a regional dispatch district agreement. The board will also consider appointments to the Board of Registrars and Historical Commission, requests to remove 4th of July Committee members, and a request to increase the Recreation Revolving Fund spending limit.

• Certification of seasonal liquor licenses (ABCC annual certification form)
• Proposed fee schedule change for electrical, plumbing & gas permits (Inspectional Services)
• Hope Lives Here proposal for a community grief garden on town property
• Layout of public ways referral for Pioneer Circle, Woodside Avenue, Arrowhead Drive
• Adoption of MGL and Regional Dispatch District agreement

The board approved a regional 911 dispatch district agreement with neighboring towns, increased the FY2026 budget by $75,000 and restored the Town Administrator’s salary to $128,000, and raised the recreation revolving fund limit by $140,000. It also authorized a community grief garden grant, adopted new inspection fee schedules, approved street acceptance ways, and withdrew two un‑sworn 4th of July Committee members. All motions passed unanimously except the planner salary retention (3‑2) and the street ways motion (4‑1).

• Approved regional 911 dispatch district agreement (unanimous)
• Raised FY2026 appropriation by $75,000 (unanimous)
• Restored Town Administrator salary to $128,000 using Free Cash (unanimous)
• Increased Recreation revolving fund limit by $140,000 (unanimous)
• Authorized Hope Lives Here community grief garden and grant agreement (unanimous)
• Adopted revised electrical, plumbing and gas fee schedule effective May 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved street acceptance ways for Arrowhead Drive, Woodside Avenue, Pioneer Circle (4-1)
• Withdrawn appointments of Kelly Briggs and Kathy Cousineau from 4th of July Committee (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Rutland Finance Committee will meet to discuss a proposed amendment to its own bylaw concerning the appointment process and may also discuss the FY2026 town budget. Both items are listed as new business, though the budget discussion is noted as 'as needed' and may not occur. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Proposed amendment to Finance Committee Bylaw – Appointment Process
• FY2026 Budget Discussion (discussed as needed)

The Finance Committee met on April 10, 2025, at the Rutland Library. The only action taken was a motion to adjourn, which was made by Karen Nahrwold, seconded by Tom Ruchala, and passed unanimously at 8:18 PM. No substantive policy or budget decisions were made.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Charter Committee

The Town Charter Committee will meet to continue discussions regarding the town charter. The committee will also review meeting minutes from March 27, 2025.

• Continued discussion of Town Charter
• Approval of March 27, 2025 meeting minutes

The committee approved the minutes from the March 27, 2025 meeting. The session continued discussion of charter issues, select board matters, and town administrator duties, but no further actions were decided. The next meeting is set for April 24, 2025 at 6:30 pm.

• Approved March 27, 2025 meeting minutes

Bylaw Committee

The Bylaw Committee will discuss several local regulations and a proposed amendment regarding Finance Committee appointments. The body aims to approve a final draft of the Wetlands Bylaw and discuss the Community Preservation Act.

• Approval of final Wetlands Bylaw draft with Town Counsel changes
• Discussion of Community Preservation Act
• Review of Earthworks Bylaw
• Review of Storm Water Bylaw
• Proposed amendment regarding appointment of the Finance Committee

The committee approved the final draft of the Wetlands Bylaw with town counsel changes. It also adopted a favorable recommendation to present the wetlands bylaw at the next town meeting. Members approved adding the pending bylaw documents to the town website. Motions to approve the previous meeting minutes, end public comment at 8:15 pm, and adjourn the meeting were also passed.

• Approved minutes of 3/13/2025 meeting
• Ended public comment at 8:15 pm
• Approved final draft of Wetlands Bylaw (with counsel changes)
• Made favorable recommendation for Wetlands Bylaw at town meeting
• Added pending bylaw documents to town website
• Adjourned the meeting

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the FY2026 budget and a request to increase the Recreation Department's revolving fund spending limit. The committee will also consider an amendment to its bylaw regarding the appointment process.

• Request to increase Recreation Department Revolving Fund spending limit
• Proposed amendment to Finance Committee Bylaw appointment process
• FY2026 Budget discussion

The committee unanimously approved a $140,000 increase to the Recreation Revolving Fund for FY25. It also adopted a recommendation to limit the WRSD discretionary budget increase to 5% and approved using free cash to fully fund the Town Planner’s salary and set the Town Administrator’s salary at $128,500. The March 20, 2025 minutes were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved $140,000 increase to Recreation Revolving Fund (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to cap WRSD discretionary budget increase at 5% (unanimous)
• Approved funding of Town Planner salary using free cash (unanimous)
• Approved amendment setting Town Administrator salary at $128,500 using free cash (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 20, 2025 with spelling correction (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on April 9, 2025, to consider variance applications from Harmony Place, LLC for the construction of 10' x 12' decks on six units located at Fidelity Drive (Rutland Heights). The meeting is open to the public in person at the library or remotely via Zoom.

• Public hearing on variance applications by Harmony Place, LLC for 10' x 12' decks on six units at Fidelity Drive (Rutland Heights)

Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance application from Harmony Place, LLC seeking dimensional relief to construct decks on six housing units at the 55+ Community at Rutland Heights. The board will also vote on approving meeting minutes from August 7, 2024, and consider any other business that arises.

• Public hearing on variance application for six deck additions at Harmony Place LLC's 55+ Community at Rutland Heights
• Approval of meeting minutes from August 7, 2024

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a 15‑foot variance for a deck on each of six owner‑occupied units at 2‑12 Fidelity Drive. The motion was made by Jake Morris, seconded by Bob Paulsen, and passed unanimously. The board also approved the prior meeting minutes, closed the public hearing, and adjourned the session.

• Approved minutes of Aug 7, 2024 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing (unanimous)
• Granted 15’ deck variance for units 2‑12 Fidelity Dr (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on April 8, 2025 to consider amendments to the Zoning Bylaw regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The proposed changes to Article III, §8.F are available for review at the Town Clerk's Office. The hearing will take place at the Rutland Public Library.

• Public hearing on amendments to Accessory Dwelling Unit zoning regulations
• Meeting at Rutland Public Library, 280 Main Street, at 6:30 p.m.
• Contact John Charbonneau, Town Planner, for more information

Planning Board

The Rutland Planning Board will hold a public hearing on April 8, 2025 to consider adding Article XV ("Battery Energy Storage System Facilities") to the Zoning Bylaws. The amendment is available for review at the Town Clerk's Office. The hearing takes place at the Rutland Public Library, 280 Main Street at 6:30 p.m.

• Public hearing on proposed Zoning Bylaw amendment Article XV: Battery Energy Storage System Facilities
• Amendment available for review at Town Clerk's Office, 250 Main Street

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to review reports from the Secretary, Director, and Children's department. The board will discuss old business regarding building maintenance and the long range plan, as well as new business concerning the budget, capital plan, and building security.

• Building Maintenance/Budget
• Long Range Plan
• Budget/Capital Plan
• Building Security
• Cable/Meetings space

The board approved the secretary’s report after a motion by Tressa and a second by Anita, with one correction. The board approved the director’s report after a motion by Ruth and a second by Anita. The board approved the children’s director’s report after a motion by Jean and a second by Ruth. The minutes note that the Select Board will not pursue a Prop 2½ override, leaving the library budget at $272,940, an 11.65% reduction.

• Approved secretary’s report (motion by Tressa, seconded by Anita)
• Approved director’s report (motion by Ruth, seconded by Anita)
• Approved children’s director’s report (motion by Jean, seconded by Ruth)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will vote on acceptance or denial of returned statutory exemption applications and discuss a $69K solar bill cycle and $50K in supplemental bills. Updates include a 2026 budget recap, plans to post an open admin position, and adjustments to office hours due to fewer admin hours. The meeting also covers the Harmony Place master deed and a recap of an exemption conference.

• Vote on statutory exemption applications for acceptance or denial
• $69,000+ sent out in solar bills
• $50,000+ sent out in supplemental bills
• Harmony Place master deed received
• Discussion of 2026 budget recap and need to hire for open admin position

Historical Commission

The Rutland Historical Commission will discuss updates on the Wood House and Studio application for State/National Register placement, the town's historical properties inventory, and plans for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Also on the agenda: preservation options for properties removed from Chapter 61A, the prison camp project, and consideration of Lindsay Maus for the commission. The meeting includes review of correspondence and confirmation of future dates.

• Update on progress of Wood House and Studio application to Mass. Historical Commission for State/National Register placement
• Discussion of initial plans for recognition of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
• Discussion of preservation options for historic properties removed from Mass. Chapter 61A
• Update on gates and other aspects of the prison camp project
• Consideration of Lindsay Maus for membership on the Historical Commission

The commission unanimously approved the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously recommended appointing Lindsay Maus to the Historical Commission. No other formal actions were voted on.

• Approved 03/11/2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended appointment of Lindsay Maus to the Historical Commission (unanimous)

Planning Board

This is a procedural meeting of the Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee. The agenda includes only approval of minutes from two prior meetings and an open discussion period. No substantive decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Approval of meeting minutes from February 21, 2024
• Approval of meeting minutes from March 20, 2024
• Open discussion for items not reasonably anticipated within 48 hours

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings to consider zoning bylaw amendments regarding accessory dwelling units and the addition of battery energy storage system facilities. The board will also discuss site plan review application fees.

• Public hearing on amendments to Article III, §8.F (Accessory Dwelling Unit) of the Zoning Bylaws
• Public hearing on adding Article XV (Battery Energy Storage System Facilities) to the Zoning Bylaws
• Discussion regarding Site Plan Review Application Fee
• Correspondence regarding Brice Estates wetlands

The Planning Board approved a revised site‑plan application fee schedule with a base fee plus $100 per 1,000 sq ft. It closed public hearings on proposed ADU and battery‑energy‑storage facility amendments and made favorable recommendations to Town Meeting, voting 3‑1 on the ADU items and unanimously on the storage item. The Board also agreed to ask the Finance Committee to fully fund the town planner’s salary from the General Fund and extended hybrid meetings through June 2027.

• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted site‑plan application fee schedule: base fee plus $100 per 1,000 sq ft (unanimous)
• Closed ADU public hearing and recommended amendment to Town Meeting (3‑1, Dick nay)
• Closed Battery Energy Storage Facility public hearing and recommended amendment to Town Meeting (unanimous)
• Agreed to send letter to Finance Committee requesting full General Fund funding of Planner’s salary (no vote recorded)
• Extended hybrid‑meeting option through June 2027 (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned Bylaw Subcommittee (unanimous)
• Adjourned Planning Board meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss the FY 2026 budget. The board is also considering local upgrade approvals for two septic systems.

• Budget FY 2026
• Septic Local Upgrade Approval: 7 Apache Trail
• Septic Local Upgrade Approval: 20-22 Finn Park Rd

The Board unanimously accepted the minutes from the January 29, 2025 meeting. It approved a Local Upgrade Approval for 20‑22 Finn Park Rd with the listed restrictions. It also approved variances for 7 Apache Trail to reduce the groundwater offset and relocate the soil absorption system. No action was taken on the FY 2026 budget discussion.

• Accepted Jan 29, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Local Upgrade Approval for 20‑22 Finn Park Rd with restrictions (all in favor)
• Approved variances for 7 Apache Trail to reduce groundwater offset and relocate soil absorption system (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

This meeting is largely procedural, with a single new business item: an informational session on the Regional Dispatch District. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Regional Dispatch District Informational Meeting

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting jointly for an informational session on the proposed Regional Dispatch District. The agenda includes a feasibility study update from the Collins Center and discussion of a draft district agreement, as well as operational and technical questions from the Dispatch Director. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the session is for discussion and Q&A.

• Feasibility study update from Collins Center on regional dispatch
• Draft district agreement Q&A
• Operational and technical questions from Dispatch Director
• Open discussion and Q&A on the regional dispatch proposal

Rutland Development and Industrial Commission

The Rutland Development and Industrial Commission will review an update on the Harmony Place project, discuss clearing trees on town property, and consider land parcel prioritization using a draft from the Open Space Committee. The commission also intends to discuss its general operations and approve minutes from its February 6 meeting.

• Update on the Harmony Place development
• Clearing of trees on town property
• Discussion of land parcel prioritization and review of Open Space Committee draft
• General discussion of RDIC operations
• Approval of February 6, 2025 meeting minutes

The Rutland Development & Industrial Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the February 6, 2025 meeting, with one member abstaining. No other formal actions were taken, though staff was asked to request that a tree‑clearing project be placed on a future Select Board agenda. The commission plans to discuss land prioritization at the next meeting on May 1.

• Approved February 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous, Dick abstain)
• Asked staff to request tree‑clearing project be added to Select Board agenda
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Fourth of July Committee

The Fourth of July Committee will meet to approve minutes from March 5 and March 19, discuss a yard sale update and fundraising options, recap a safety meeting held April 1, reveal the 2025 event logo, and review and accept a new vendor agreement and a residential fundraising letter. No dollar amounts, ordinances, or specific contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of meeting minutes from March 5 and March 19, 2025
• Yard sale update and fundraising options discussion
• Recap of safety meeting held April 1, 2025
• Reveal of the 2025 Fourth of July event logo
• Review and acceptance of a new vendor agreement and a residential fundraising letter

The Rutland Fourth of July Committee voted unanimously to adopt the presented 2025 logo as the official logo. The committee also decided to use Clark mailing to print and mail the residential fundraising letter. No other substantive actions were taken at this meeting.

• Adopted 2025 logo as official (all in favor)
• Approved use of Clark mailing to print and mail residential fundraising letter

Bylaw Committee

The Bylaw Committee will hold a joint meeting with the Conservation Commission to discuss corrections and/or changes to the proposed Wetlands Bylaw suggested by Town Counsel. This is the only substantive item on the agenda. The meeting will be held in person at the Rutland Public Library with remote access provided.

• Joint meeting with Conservation Commission to discuss corrections and/or changes to the proposed Wetlands Bylaw suggested by Town Counsel

The Bylaw Committee and Conservation Commission agreed to retain the 25‑foot no‑disturb zone in the wetlands bylaw. They approved changing the term “edge” to “boundary” in the Jurisdiction section. After Town Counsel reviews the edits, the revised bylaw will be placed on the agenda for the Annual Town Meeting.

• Retain 25‑foot no‑disturb zone in Jurisdiction section (approved)
• Change wording from “edge” to “boundary” in Jurisdiction section (approved)
• Submit revised wetlands bylaw to Annual Town Meeting after Town Counsel review (planned)

Conservation Commission

The Rutland Conservation Commission will consider several applications and public hearings, including continued Notices of Intent for two lots on Emerald Rd. and a property on Barre Paxton Rd. The board will also review comments on the Wetlands Bylaw, a forest cutting plan for White Hall Rd. and Pine Plains Rd., and schedule a site visit for a request at 7 Apache Trail. The meeting includes accepting minutes from March 18 and a request to extend an order of conditions for 146 Wachusett St.

• Request to Extend Order of Conditions & Letter to National Grid – Brian Willett, 146 Wachusett St.
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent – Simac Realty Trust, Emerald Rd. (Lot 6) (Continued)
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent – Simac Realty Trust, Emerald Rd. (Lot 7) (Continued)
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent – Evan Sawyer, 40 Barre Paxton Rd. (Continued)
• Review comments on Wetlands Bylaw made by Town Counsel

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the March 18, 2025 minutes, extended the Order of Conditions for 146 Wachusett St. through June 2026, and approved drafting a letter to National Grid. Public hearings for the Emerald Rd. Lot 6 and Lot 7 applications were continued to April 15, 2025, while the hearing for 40 Barre Paxton Rd. was closed and a standard Order of Conditions issued. The Wetland Bylaw draft was revised to keep the 25‑foot no‑disturb zone and change “edge” to “boundary,” then sent back to Town Counsel for final review. Site walks were scheduled for 7 Apache Trail and 61 Pommogussett Rd. septic‑system repair applications.

• Approved March 18 minutes (unanimous)
• Extended Order of Conditions for 146 Wachusett St. to June 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved drafting a letter to National Grid (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for Emerald Rd. Lot 6 to April 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for Emerald Rd. Lot 7 to April 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for 40 Barre Paxton Rd. (unanimous)
• Issued standard Order of Conditions for 40 Barre Paxton Rd. (unanimous)
• Revised Wetland Bylaw: retained 25‑foot no‑disturb zone and changed “edge” to “boundary,” then sent to Town Counsel (decision, no vote recorded)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold continued public hearings on Notices of Intent for two lots on Emerald Road (Simac Realty Trust) and for 40 Barre Paxton Road (Evan Sawyer). They will also consider a request to extend an Order of Conditions for National Grid at 146 Wachusett Street, review comments on the Wetlands Bylaw, and discuss a forest cutting plan on White Hall Road and Pine Plains Road.

• Request to extend Order of Conditions & letter to National Grid at 146 Wachusett St.
• Public hearing (continued): Notice of Intent for Simac Realty Trust, Emerald Rd. Lot 6
• Public hearing (continued): Notice of Intent for Simac Realty Trust, Emerald Rd. Lot 7
• Public hearing (continued): Notice of Intent for Evan Sawyer at 40 Barre Paxton Rd.
• Review of Town Counsel comments on Wetlands Bylaw; forest cutting plan on White Hall & Pine Plains Rds.

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss the FY2026 budget override and proposed spending cuts. The board is also seeking action on a new road acceptance policy and a Conservation Commission appointment.

• FY2026 Budget: Discussion of override and proposed spending reductions
• Road Acceptance Policy: Adoption of new policy for street acceptance process
• Conservation Commission: Letter of interest to serve from George Farrington
• Special Act to Recall Elected Officials: Review of Town Counsel comments
• Wachusett Leadership Group: Review and discussion of draft policy

The board approved the Treasury Warrant and payroll and adopted FY2026 budget version 2.2, using $711,601 in free cash, $130,000 from the OPEB Trust fund and transfers to stabilization funds. The adopted budget was transmitted to the Finance Committee as the final version. The board also adopted a new road acceptance policy and appointed George Farrington to the Conservation Commission. An executive session was held to discuss the Town Administrator.

• Approved Treasury Warrant 25-20 & payroll PW25-20 (unanimous)
• Adopted FY2026 budget version 2.2 with $711,601 free cash, $130,000 OPEB Trust fund, $49,866 transfers to Stabilization & Capital Stabilization Funds (unanimous)
• Transmitted FY2026 budget version 2.2 to Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Adopted road acceptance policy as presented (unanimous)
• Appointed George Farrington to Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 13, 2025 (unanimous, Leah Whiteman abstain)
• Approved minutes of March 17, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned to executive session regarding Town Administrator (unanimous)

Town Charter Committee

The Town Charter Committee will continue its review of the Town Meeting process and hold a discussion regarding the Select Board. The meeting includes approval of minutes from March 13, 2025. No specific proposals, votes, or dollar amounts are listed on the agenda.

• Continued review of the Town Meeting process
• Discussion of the Select Board
• Approval of March 13, 2025 meeting minutes

The committee approved the meeting minutes with Talene Senecal seconding and Michelle Campbell thirding the motion. No other formal actions were taken; the remainder of the meeting consisted of discussion topics.

• Approved meeting minutes (seconded by Talene, thirded by Michelle)

Planning Board

The Planning Board Bylaw Subcommittee will hold a continued public hearing on amendments to Article III, §8.F governing Accessory Dwelling Units. They will also discuss a draft Battery Energy Storage Bylaw and future zoning bylaw amendments. Minutes from May and June 2024 are set for approval.

• Public hearing (continued from March 11, 2025) on amendments to Accessory Dwelling Unit regulations (Article III, §8.F)
• Discussion of draft Battery Energy Storage Bylaw
• Discussion of future zoning bylaw amendments
• Approval of meeting minutes: May 22, 2024 and June 26, 2024

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold discussions on several policy and fiscal items, including the Hilltop Estates Truck Route, a proposed Road Acceptance Policy, and the Site Plan Review Application Fee. The board will also consider its FY '26 budget and review correspondence regarding Harmony Place variance requests. No votes are scheduled; these are discussions and reports only.

• Discussion – Hilltop Estates Truck Route
• Discussion – Road Acceptance Policy
• Discussion – Site Plan Review Application Fee
• Discussion – Planning Board FY ’26 Budget
• Correspondence from T. Murphy re: Harmony Place Variance Requests

The Planning Board voted unanimously to rescind the modified condition that allowed construction trucks to use Grizzly Dr. and to restore the original requirement that traffic enter via Pommogussett Rd. The board also referred the draft road acceptance policy to the Select Board with a favorable recommendation, agreed to draft a letter asking the Select Board to reconsider the proposed cut in Town Planner hours, and approved a $300 reimbursement to a board member. Additional actions included approving several past meeting minutes and sending a letter of no comment to the Zoning Board of Appeals on variance applications.

• Rescinded modified truck route condition for Hilltop Estates, reverting to Pommogussett Rd only (unanimous)
• Referred road acceptance policy to Select Board with favorable recommendation (unanimous)
• Agreed to draft a letter to Select Board requesting reconsideration of Town Planner hour cut (unanimous)
• Sent a letter of no comment to Zoning Board of Appeals on variance applications (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 11, 2025 (unanimous, Dick abstain)
• Approved minutes of May 22, 2024 (unanimous, Tim abstain)
• Approved minutes of June 26, 2024 (unanimous)
• Reimbursed $300 to Tim Nahrwold from Planning Board revolving fund (unanimous, Tim abstain)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss the FY2026 budget, including proposed departmental cuts. The committee will also address general FY2026 budget items as needed. The meeting includes approval of prior meeting minutes. No final votes are scheduled; this is a discussion session.

• Discussion of proposed departmental cuts for FY2026
• General FY2026 budget discussion
• Approval of March 13, 2025 Finance Committee minutes

The committee approved the March 13, 2025 minutes unanimously and adjourned the meeting unanimously. It asked the Town Administrator to prepare a bullet‑point list of the proposed budget cuts. The committee also decided to delay any further discussion of the FY2026 budget until after the Select Board makes its final decisions.

• Approved March 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Requested Town Administrator to prepare bullet‑point list of budget cuts
• Decided to postpone further FY2026 budget discussion until after Select Board decisions

Events Committee

The Rutland Events Committee will convene to discuss several upcoming community events including the Community Expo, Earth Day, and the Concert Series. The committee will also review a Mass Cultural Council grant and financial reports. Minutes from previous meetings in January and February 2025 are scheduled for approval.

• Discussion of Community Expo
• Discussion of Earth Day event
• Discussion of Concert Series
• Review of Mass Cultural Council Grant
• Approval of meeting minutes from 2/20/25 and 1/13/25

The Events Committee approved a $20 purchase for nametags and tablecloths, gave Sam discretion to contact bands for open dates, authorized Sondra to fill missing food‑truck slots, and approved providing one t‑shirt to each sponsor in addition to donors and committee members. All motions passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved $20 spend for nametags and tablecloth (unanimous)
• Authorized Sam to contact bands and fill empty dates (unanimous)
• Authorized Sondra to fill missing food/drink truck spaces (unanimous)
• Approved one t‑shirt for each sponsor, plus donors and members (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 2/20/25 meeting with amendments (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 1/13/25 meeting with amendments (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)