Sunderland public meetings in 2025

Assessors Office

The Sunderland Board of Assessors will consider approval of the minutes from its meetings on December 1 and December 8, 2025, vote on a warrant for FY 2025 MXE Commitment #6, and review the proposed FY 2027 BOA Budget. A meeting with the Water Commissioners is scheduled to begin at 4:30 PM. All agenda items are tentative and may be altered or supplemented during the meeting.

• Approval of minutes from the Assessor’s meeting held 08 Dec 2025
• Approval of minutes from the Assessor’s meeting held 01 Dec 2025
• Vote on Warrant for FY 2025 MXE Commitment #6
• Review and discussion of the proposed FY 2027 BOA Budget
• Meeting with the Water Commissioners at 4:30 PM

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved the minutes from the December 8 and December 1 meetings. The MVE Warrant for FY 2025 Commitment #6 was deferred pending correction of a sum error. Assessors decided to begin reviewing each Chapterland application for completeness starting January 5 2026. The Water District Commissioners unanimously approved a single tax rate for the district.

• Approved December 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Approved December 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Deferred approval of MVE Warrant FY 2025 Commitment #6 due to sum error
• Decided to review Chapterland applications for completeness starting Jan 5 2026
• Approved single tax rate for Sunderland Water District (unanimous vote)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard will meet to appoint two part-time snow and ice positions and a full-time police officer, review highway bids, and discuss a police union agreement. The meeting will also include updates on a lawsuit and budget submissions.

• Appointment of two Highway Part-Time Temporary Snow and Ice positions
• Appointment of new Full-Time, benefitted Police Officer
• Highway Bid Signor Authorization
• Review and Authorization of Alcohol and Non-Alcohol Common Victuallers
• Discussion of Police Union CSO MOU with Police Officers

The board unanimously appointed Jeffery Hubbard and Ryan Kokosztn to part‑time snow and ice driver positions at $25 and $17 per hour. They also appointed Matthew Manheim as a provisional full‑time police officer at $24.82 per hour, with town‑paid academy costs. The board approved the Franklin Regional Council of Governments highway‑bid signatory authorization and a suite of alcohol and non‑alcohol licenses for local businesses. Additionally, the Police Union CSO grant MOU was approved.

• Appointed Jeffery Hubbard to part‑time snow/ice driver position at $25/hr (vote 2‑0)
• Appointed Ryan Kokosztn to part‑time snow/ice driver position at $17/hr (vote 2‑0)
• Appointed Matthew Manheim as provisional full‑time police officer at $24.82/hr (vote 2‑0)
• Approved FRCOG highway‑bid signatory authorization (vote 3‑0)
• Approved multiple non‑alcohol and alcohol licenses for local businesses (vote 3‑0)
• Approved Police Union CSO grant MOU (vote 3‑0)

Assessors Office

The Board of Assessors will consider several agenda items. They will review and approve the minutes from the meetings held on December 1 and December 8, 2025. They will vote on a warrant for FY 2025 MXE Commitment #6 and discuss the proposed FY 2027 BOA Budget. The meeting will conclude with a discussion with the Water Commissioners at 4:30 PM.

• Approve minutes from the December 8, 2025 Assessor meeting
• Approve revised minutes from the December 1, 2025 Assessor meeting
• Vote on the warrant for FY 2025 MXE Commitment #6
• Review and discuss the proposed FY 2027 BOA Budget
• Meet with the Water Commissioners at 4:30 PM

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Sunderland Selectboard meeting will consider approval of Class II licenses and non‑alcohol common victualler licenses. It will also discuss amendments to the South County Senior Center Intermunicipal Agreement and provide updates on FY2027 budget and capital request submissions. The board will approve the minutes from the Dec 8, 2025 meeting.

• Review and approval of Class II Licenses and Non‑alcohol Common Victuallers licenses
• Amendments to the South County Senior Center Intermunicipal Agreement (SCSC IMA)
• Updates on FY2027 Budget and Capital Requests submissions
• Approval of minutes from the 12/8/25 Selectboard meeting

The board voted 3‑0 to approve two Class II licenses for used‑car dealerships and nine non‑alcoholic common victualler licenses. They also voted 2‑1 to accept an amendment to the South County Senior Center Intermunicipal Agreement, adding a Sunderland member to the Board of Oversight. The meeting was adjourned at 6:48 PM after a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved two Class II licenses for All State Construction and JR Service (3‑0)
• Approved nine non‑alcohol Common Victualler licenses (Banchan Koren Deli, Dunkin Donuts, Frontier Pizza, Mike’s Maze, Millstone Farm Market, Smiarowski’s Farm Stand, Subway, Sugarloaf Frostee, Wild Roots Café and Market) (3‑0)
• Accepted amendment to South County Senior Center Intermunicipal Agreement, adding a Sunderland board member (2‑1)
• Adjourned meeting (3‑0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The board approved the minutes from the previous four meetings (3‑0). It accepted the assessors' recommendation to set a single tax rate for all property classes with no open‑space, residential, or small‑commercial exemptions (3‑0). The fire department's outdated equipment valued under $10,000 was declared surplus (3‑0). The board instructed KP Law not to attend the Bub’s Bar BQ ABCC appeal hearing and directed the Town Administrator to draft a letter (3‑0). The Town Administrator approved a $1,000 purchase of an alarm‑panel upgrade with a $10 per month service fee.

• Approved minutes from 10/20/25, 10/27/25, 11/10/25, 12/01/25 (3‑0)
• Accepted assessors' recommendation for a single tax rate for FY26, no exemptions (3‑0)
• Declared fire department equipment valued under $10,000 as surplus (3‑0)
• Instructed KP Law not to attend hearing; Town Administrator to draft letter (3‑0)
• Approved purchase of alarm panel upgrade for $1,000 with $10/mo service fee

Community Pathways Committee

The Sunderland Community Preservation Committee will consider reorganizing its internal roles, review its meeting schedule for 2024‑2025, and look over minutes from the previous meeting. It will also receive updates and feedback on ongoing projects before adjourning.

• Reorganize Committee roles
• Review meeting schedule for 2024‑2025
• Review minutes from last meeting
• Project updates and feedback

Conservation Commission

The Sunderland Conservation Commission will review meeting minutes and discuss old business items including a Conservation Restriction update on N. Plain Rd, the MVP process, and floodplain map education. The meeting will also include site visits and a DEP listening session.

• Review minutes from 11/8/25
• Discuss Conservation Restriction update for N. Plain Rd
• Review MVP process
• Floodplain maps education & outreach
• Site visits and DEP listening session

Assessors Office

The Sunderland Board of Assessors will review and vote on the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. They will consider approving MVE Commitment #6 for fiscal year 2025. The board will also discuss remaining RMV excise applications, the lack of property‑owner acknowledgements on FY 2027 Chapter applications, and processing of Chapter land applications.

• Review and approval of minutes of 18 November 2025
• Review and approval of MVE Commitment# 6, FY 2025
• Review and approval of remaining RMV Excise applications received as of this date
• Discussion of lack of property owner’s acknowledgement on FY 2027 Chapter applications
• Chapter Land Application Processing

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard will appoint Elizabeth Mayers to the Historical Commission and Margaret Nartowicz as Temporary Support Staff to the Town Administrator. The board will also review the South County Senior Center update, the list of legal holidays for the coming year, and the Special Town Meeting outcome. The meeting will be held in person at the Sunderland Town Offices and via remote means.

• Appoint Elizabeth Mayers to the Historical Commission
• Appoint Margaret Nartowicz as Temporary Support Staff to the Town Administrator
• Review South County Senior Center Update
• Review Budget Request Calendar
• Review list of legal Holidays Observed for coming Calendar Year

The Selectboard approved the 2026 legal holidays list with a 3-0 vote. They appointed Elizabeth Mayers to the Historical Commission (term ends June 30, 2028) and Margaret Nartowicz as Temporary Support Staff to the Town Administrator (effective Dec. 1, 2025) each by a 3-0 vote. The meeting was adjourned by a 3-0 vote.

• Approved 2026 legal holidays list (3-0)
• Appointed Elizabeth Mayers to Historical Commission (term to 6/30/28) (3-0)
• Appointed Margaret Nartowicz as Temporary Support Staff to Town Administrator (effective 12/1/25) (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Cultural Council

The Sunderland Cultural Council will consider three agenda items. First, it will approve the minutes from the August 25, 2025 meeting. Second, it will elect officers for the council. Finally, it will review and vote on grant applications for the upcoming grant year.

• Approve minutes of the August 25, 2025 meeting
• Elect council officers
• Review and vote on grant applications for the upcoming grant year

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a general business meeting and a special permit hearing continuance on November 19, 2025. The Chair will give an update on the Dollar General Special Permit case, covering stormwater consultant progress, traffic study review, a meeting with the Selectboard and Town Counsel, and a lawsuit filed by Mr. Pill. The Board will vote on a request for continuance and set a new hearing date for the permit. The meeting will be held at the Sunderland Town Offices and via Zoom.

• Chair updates Dollar General Special Permit case (stormwater consultant, traffic study, lawsuit by Mr. Pill)
• Discussion of ANR and driveway separation by-law applicability and “Taking” argument
• Board vote on continuance request for the Dollar General Special Permit hearing
• Board vote to set a new continuance date for the hearing
• General business meeting of the ZBA

Assessors Office

The Board of Assessors will consider approval of the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting. It will review the town’s free cash estimate for fiscal year 2026, several memoranda, and applications for MVE abatement and blind exemptions for FY2025 and FY2026. The board will also approve invoices submitted by Diane Bishop and CAI Technologies and discuss a recent VADAR Data Bridge Process webinar and a senior exemption application. Unanticipated new business may also be addressed.

• Approval of minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting
• Review of the free cash estimate for fiscal year 2026
• Review and approval of MVE abatement applications (Oct 1 – Nov 10 2025)
• Approval of invoices from Diane Bishop and CAI Technologies
• Review of blind exemption application for FY2025 and FY2026

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from the October 6 meeting unanimously. They also approved two warrants—$1,100 for training by Diane Bishop and $600 for C.A.I. map maintenance. Several statutory exemption applications and a batch of MVE abatements were approved, and the finalized LA‑4 was cleared for submission.

• Approved minutes of 06 Oct 2025 B.O.A. meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #W26-21B for $1,100 training by Diane Bishop
• Approved Warrant #26-21B for $600 C.A.I. map maintenance
• Approved Senior Application for Statutory Exemption renewal (FY 2023)
• Approved denial of MVE abatement for Laryssa Kacorowsky
• Approved batch of 15 MVE abatements totaling $1,416.66
• Approved Application for Statutory Exemption due to blindness
• Approved finalized LA‑4 for submission via DLS website

Planning Board

The Sunderland Planning Board will hold a meeting to consider public appointments and questions, an ANR request if needed, a discussion on accessory dwelling units (ADU), an update on Dollar General, mail items, and committee reports. No formal decisions are listed; the agenda outlines topics for discussion.

• ADU discussion
• Dollar General update
• Public appointments/questions
• ANR (if needed)
• Committee reports

Energy Committee

The Sunderland Energy Committee will approve minutes from two prior meetings. It will discuss next steps for installing EV charging stations and provide updates on the Green Communities grant application and annual report. The committee will also address municipal aggregation opt‑out letters, a meeting with Rep. Natalie Blais, and possible public‑program window inserts.

• Approve minutes from October 14 and October 20 meetings
• Discuss next steps for EV charging stations
• Update on Green Communities grant application and annual report
• Municipal aggregation opt‑out letters to be mailed soon
• Consider public‑program window inserts

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard will hold its regular meeting to receive updates from the board and town administrator, review any correspondence, and hear public comment. No specific agenda items are listed beyond a possible discussion of Special Town Meeting concerns if they arise. The meeting will conclude with an executive session.

Board of Health / Health Agent

The Sunderland Board of Health will consider approval of the October 22, 2025 meeting minutes. It will review unpaid inspection bills from July 2025 for Bubs BBQ, Dunkin Donuts, The O’s Bar, Subway, and Gulf Mart. The board will discuss whether unused inspector funds are being held in a Public Health Account while the PHE supplies services.

• Approve minutes from the October 22, 2025 Board of Health meeting
• Unpaid inspection bills (July 2025): Bubs BBQ $250.00; Dunkin Donuts $150.00; The O’s Bar $150.00; Subway $150.00; Gulf Mart $150.00
• Discuss question: Is Sunderland holding unused inspector funds in a Public Health Account while the PHE is supplying services?
• Appointments (items to be announced by the Chair)

The Board approved the October 22, 2025 meeting minutes by a 2‑0 vote. It decided to retain unused inspector funds in the Public Health account while using Valley Regional Health Collaborative inspectors. The clerk will resend unpaid bills to businesses that have not paid. The meeting was adjourned by a 2‑0 vote.

• Approved October 22, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Hold unused inspector funds in Public Health account (no vote recorded)
• Clerk to resend unpaid bills to businesses (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Riverside Cemetery Trustees

The Riverside Cemetery Trustees will meet to record recent plot purchases and burials. The board will review previous and planned tree and conservator work and discuss interest in green burials.

• Review of previous and planned tree work and conservator's work
• Discussion of interest in green burials
• Recording of recent plot purchases and current burials

The Riverside Cemetery Trustees voted 3‑0 to accept the Spring‑May meeting minutes. They also voted 3‑0 to accept a letter acknowledging a $300 donation from Delta Sand received in December 2024. The meeting was adjourned at 7:11 PM with a 3‑0 vote.

• Accepted Spring‑May meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Accepted acknowledgment letter for $300 Delta Sand donation (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:11 PM (3‑0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Sunderland Selectboard will meet to approve minutes, review the South County Senior Center, and set sewer rates for 2026. The meeting will be held in person at the Town Offices and via Zoom.

• Approve Selectboard minutes from 10/20/25
• South County Senior Center update
• Review Special Town Meeting
• Set 2026 sewer rates
• Vote on Frontier Regional School Committee member

The board voted 3‑0 to apply past‑due sewer lien balances to the 2026 sewer bills. It also voted 3‑0 to add the Frontier Regional School Committee and the Sunderland Elementary School Committee to the town’s special municipal employee list. A motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously (3‑0).

• Apply past‑due sewer lien balances to 2026 bills – approved (3‑0)
• Add Frontier Regional and Sunderland Elementary School Committees to special municipal employee list – approved (3‑0)
• Adjourn meeting – approved (3‑0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to install boundary signs on protected land and discuss beaver solutions. The meeting includes updates on the MVP process.

• Installation of Conservation Boundary signs near 80 Plumtree Rd
• Discussion of beaver solutions
• MVP process updates

Conservation Commission

The Sunderland Conservation Commission will review the November 2024 minutes and consider reports from site visits at 17 Grybko Cross Road, Buttonball, and Garage Road. The meeting will also address wildlife‑habitat signs, the MVP process, and include public comment and routine items.

• Site visit to 17 Grybko Cross Rd (beaver habitat)
• Site visit to Buttonball (brush piles)
• Site visit to Garage Rd (landscaping transfer)
• Discussion of wildlife habitat signs
• Discussion of MVP process

Assessors Office

The Board of Assessors will review Motor Vehicle Excise (MVE) abatement applications and a blind exemption application. The board will also develop a plan to complete Schedule A for the Department of Revenue by November 30, 2025.

• Review of MVE Abatement Applications from October 1 to October 31, 2025
• Plan of action for D.O.R. Schedule A completion
• Blind Exemption Application

Finance Committee

The Sunderland Finance Committee will meet on October 31, 2025 for routine business. The agenda includes a final review of the Special Town Meeting warrant and updates from the Selectboard and Town Administrator. The meeting also provides time for public comment and an executive session.

• Special Town Meeting Warrant final review
• Selectboard updates
• Town Administrator updates
• Public comment period
• Executive session

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard and Finance Committee will meet to conduct a final review of the Special Town Meeting Warrant. Other agenda items are procedural or not specified.

• Final review of Special Town Meeting Warrant

Finance Committee

The Selectboard and Finance Committee will meet to set a date and review the warrant for a Special Town Meeting. The bodies will also review the budget request form to be distributed to departments.

• Special Town Meeting date and warrant review
• Review of budget request form for departments
• South County Senior Center update
• Review of appointments for Assisting TA
• Update on Bubs Appeal to ABCC

The Finance Committee and Selectboard approved six articles for the Special Town Meeting, including $362,000 for a new SCEMS ambulance and related equipment, $10,000 for temporary staff support, and payments for prior‑year bills. They also approved the FY27 budget and capital request submission form. The Special Town Meeting was scheduled for November 14, 2025.

• Approved Article I: $362,000 SCEMS ambulance purchase (SB 3‑0, FC 3‑1)
• Approved Article II: $37,000 for Striker Power Loading System (SB 3‑0, FC 3‑1)
• Approved Article III: $10,000 for temporary support staff (SB 3‑0, FC 3‑1)
• Approved Article IV: $140 total to pay prior‑year bills to Fire Technologies and Municipal Association (SB 3‑0, FC 3‑1)
• Approved Article V: $1,347.90 to pay prior‑year bill to Axon Enterprise (Police) (SB 3‑0, FC 3‑1)
• Approved Article VI: $12,250 for PFAS remediation work (SB 3‑0, FC 3‑1)
• Approved FY27 budget and capital request submission form (SB 3‑0, FC 4‑0)
• Set Special Town Meeting date for November 14, 2025

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard and Finance Committee will consider setting a date for a Special Town Meeting and review the meeting warrant. They will also examine the budget request form that will be sent to town departments. Additional items include updates on the South County Senior Center, appointments for the Assisting Town Administrator, the Bubs appeal to the ABCC, and the Town Administrator’s remote‑work schedule.

• Special Town Meeting discussion: set date and review warrant
• Review budget request form to be sent to departments
• South County Senior Center update
• Review appointments for Assisting Town Administrator
• Update on Bubs appeal to ABCC

The board and finance committee approved six items for the upcoming Special Town Meeting. Article I authorized $362,000 from SCEMS retained earnings for a new ambulance and a Striker Power Loading System; Article II approved $37,000 for a loading system for the first ambulance. Articles III‑VI approved additional budget adjustments, including $10,000 for temporary staff, $140.90 for prior‑year bills, and $12,250 for PFAS remediation. The FY27 budget and capital request submission form was also approved.

• Approved $362,000 SCEMS ambulance purchase and Striker Power Loading System (SB 3-0, FC 3-1)
• Approved $37,000 Striker Power Loading System for first ambulance (SB 3-0, FC 3-1)
• Approved $10,000 increase for temporary support staff (SB 3-0, FC 3-1)
• Approved $105 transfer to Massachusetts Fire Technologies and $35 to Massachusetts Municipal Association (SB 3-0, FC 3-1)
• Approved $1,347.90 transfer to Axon Enterprise Inc. for Police Service bill (SB 3-0, FC 3-1)
• Approved $12,250 transfer to Tighe and Bond for PFAS remediation (SB 3-0, FC 3-1)
• Approved FY27 budget and capital request submission form (SB 3-0, FC 4-0)

Planning Board

The Sunderland Planning Board will hold its regular meeting on October 22, 2025. Agenda items include public appointments or questions, a possible Agricultural Notice of Right (ANR), discussion of accessory dwelling unit (ADU) proposals, an update on the Dollar General project, and committee reports. No specific decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Public appointments/questions
• ANR (if needed)
• ADU discussion
• Dollar General update
• Committee reports

Board of Health / Health Agent

The Sunderland Board of Health will consider approving minutes from April 22 and September 17, 2025. New business includes a food establishment license and milk pasteurization request for Thomas Farm at 64 Hadley Road, unpaid inspection bills totaling $850 from several vendors, a Certificate of Fitness fee for Cliffside Apartments unit F09, and the retirement of housing inspector Gina McNeely.

• New Food Establishment License & Pasteurization of Milk – Thomas Farm, 64 Hadley Road
• Unpaid Inspection Bills – Bubs BBQ $250, Dunkin Donuts $150, The O’s Bar $150, Subway $150, Gulf Mart $150
• Certificate of Fitness – Cliffside Apartments Unit F09 $100
• Retirement of Housing Inspector Gina McNeely
• Approve minutes from April 22, 2025 and September 17, 2025

Conservation Commission

The Sunderland Conservation Commission will review the minutes from 10/7/25 and consider new business items, including site visits to 389 Russell St (collapsing barn) and 491 Hadley Rd (sunroom addition), as well as utility line maintenance by Eversource/NSTAR on Ferry Rd and updates to the town webpage. The commission will also revisit old business regarding wildlife habitat signs before adjourning.

• Site visit to 389 Russell St – collapsing barn
• Site visit to 491 Hadley Rd – sunroom addition
• Eversource/NSTAR utility line maintenance on Ferry Rd
• Review of wildlife habitat signs
• Town webpage update

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard will discuss setting a date and warrant for a Special Town Meeting. The body will also review liquor and entertainment licenses and a grant application for Sunderland Elementary School. An executive session is scheduled to discuss the Calito Development Group LLC. vs Town of Sunderland lawsuit.

• 1 Day Liquor License for Greenfield Cooperative Bank
• 1 Day Liquor and Entertainment Licenses for Teddy Smiarowski (Potato Festival)
• ZBA Peer Review contract with Zengineer
• Green Communities Grant Application for Sunderland Elementary School Building Management System
• Executive session regarding Dollar General lawsuit (Calito Development Group LLC. vs Town of Sunderland)

The board approved a one‑day liquor license for Greenfield Cooperative Bank and both a one‑day liquor and entertainment license for the Teddy Smiarowski Potato Festival, each by a 3‑0 vote. It also approved a contract with Zengineer to review the storm‑water report, to be funded by Calito Development Group LLC, and appointed Dana Romer as a temporary staff support person, both unanimously. Additionally, the board authorized the submission of a Green Communities grant application for a Sunderland Elementary School building‑management system upgrade, a project estimated at $189,000 with a $164,000 grant request, again by a 3‑0 vote. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 1‑day liquor license for Greenfield Cooperative Bank (3‑0)
• Approved 1‑day liquor and 1‑day entertainment licenses for Teddy Smiarowski Potato Festival (3‑0)
• Approved contract with Zengineer for storm‑water report review, funded by Calito Development Group LLC (3‑0)
• Approved appointment of Dana Romer as temporary staff support person (3‑0)
• Approved Green Communities grant application for Sunderland Elementary School upgrade (estimated $189,000, grant request $164,000) (3‑0)

Energy Committee

The Energy Committee will meet to discuss the town's Green Communities Competitive Grant application with the Selectboard.

• Discussion with Selectboard regarding Green Communities Competitive Grant application

Energy Committee

The Sunderland Energy Committee will review past minutes, discuss electric vehicle charging stations at SES, and update on a Green Communities grant application due October 22.

• Approval of September 18 meeting minutes
• Discussion on EV charging stations at SES
• Update on Green Communities grant application
• Meeting scheduling with Rep. Natalie Blais
• Regional Energy Committee news

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Sunderland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on an application from Calito Development Group, LLC for a special permit and variance to construct a 9,100‑square‑foot retail building with site improvements on Amherst Road (Rt‑116), Tax Map #9, Plot #44. The board will consider whether the proposed project complies with the town’s zoning by‑laws and Chapter 40A of the Massachusetts General Laws. The hearing will be conducted in person at the town offices and via Zoom on October 8, 2025 at 7:00 PM.

• Application for a special permit and variance by Calito Development Group, LLC
• Proposed 9,100 sq ft retail building with site improvements on Amherst Road – Rt‑116 (Tax Map #9, Plot #44)
• Public hearing scheduled for Oct 8, 2025 at 7:00 PM (in person and Zoom)
• Review of compliance with Sunderland zoning by‑laws and Chapter 40A of Mass. General Laws

Conservation Commission

The Sunderland Conservation Commission will meet to review National Flood Insurance Program updates and new maps. The body will also discuss site visits for Falls Farm and an approved extension for the Open Space & Recreation Plan.

• Site visits for Falls Farm
• National Flood Insurance Program update and new maps
• Open Space & Recreation Plan extension
• Educational water conservation postcard

Assessors Office

The Board of Assessors will meet to review map updates from C.A.I. and approve motor vehicle excise applications submitted between August 7 and September 30, 2025. The board will also address specific property inquiries and a payment request from Axia Computer Systems, LTD.

• Review of Sunderland map changes from C.A.I.
• Payment request from Axia Computer Systems, LTD [UK]
• Inquiry regarding 25 & 41 Amherst Rd [SugarLoaf Gardens]
• Approval of Motor Vehicle Excise Applications (08/07/2025 to 09/30/2025)
• Discussion of 2025 New England Appraisers Expo live-streaming

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved the minutes from the September 8 meeting. They also approved up to five hours of training for Mr. Nestanpower to be provided by Mrs. Bishop. Other agenda items were discussed but no further actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of 08 September 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved up to 5 hours training for Mr. Nestanpower by Mrs. Bishop

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard will consider the return of an all-alcohol liquor license for Bub’s Bar-B-Q following a suspension or revocation. The board will also review an entertainment license application and a contract with FCAT.

• Suspension/Revocation of All-Alcohol Liquor License for Bub’s Bar-B-Q, 676 Amherst Road
• Entertainment License Application for Big River Chestnuts Fall Event
• Review of FCAT contract
• South County Senior Center update

The board continued the suspension of Bub’s Bar‑B‑Q liquor license until October 20, 2025. It approved an entertainment license for the Big River Chestnuts Fall Event on October 11, 2025. The board authorized signing the FCAT contract covering October 6, 2025 through June 30, 2027. The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 PM.

• Continue suspension of Bub’s Bar‑B‑Q liquor license through Oct 20 2025 (3‑0)
• Approve entertainment license for Big River Chestnuts Fall Event on Oct 11 2025 (3‑0)
• Approve signing of FCAT contract effective 10/06/2025 to 06/30/2027 (3‑0)
• Adjourn meeting at 7:23 PM (3‑0)

Conservation Commission

The Sunderland Conservation Commission will meet on October 4, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. to consider installing Conservation Boundary signs on newer protected land along Cross Mountain Road. The agenda includes a call to order and an adjournment. The listed items are anticipated by the chair and may not all be discussed.

• Install Conservation Boundary signs on newer protected land on Cross Mountain Rd

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Sunderland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on September 24, 2025, to consider a request by Calito Development Group for a Special Permit and/or Variance to construct a 9,100 sq. ft. retail building on Amherst Road – Rt.-116.

• Public Hearing for Calito Development Group retail project
• Request for Special Permit and/or Variance
• 9,100 sq. ft. retail building proposal
• Hearing continued from February 27, 2025
• Location: Amherst Road – Rt.-116 (Tax Map #9, Plot #44)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard will consider suspending or revoking the all‑alcohol liquor license for Bub’s Bar‑B‑Q at 676 Amherst Road because the business lacks the required Liquor Liability Insurance. The board will also review the two‑year renewal of the Upper Pioneer Valley Veterans’ Service District, receive an update on the South County Senior Center, examine the FCAT lease and contract, and discuss the schedule for the upcoming fall meeting.

• Suspension/Revocation of All‑Alcohol Liquor License for Bub’s Bar‑B‑Q (676 Amherst Road) due to failure to maintain Liquor Liability Insurance
• Review two‑year renewal of Upper Pioneer Valley Veterans’ Service District
• South County Senior Center update
• Review FCAT lease and FCAT contract
• Discuss Selectboard fall meeting schedule

The Selectboard voted 3‑0 to suspend Bub’s Bar‑BQ’s liquor license pending proof of insurance. They also approved a two‑year renewal of the Upper Pioneer Valley Veterans’ Service District contract (7/1/26‑7/1/28) and extended the FCAT lease for another five years, each by a 3‑0 vote. Additionally, the board authorized the chair and town administrator to sign opioid‑settlement documents and accepted the September 8 minutes.

• Suspend Bub’s Bar‑BQ liquor license until further notice (3‑0)
• Accept and sign two‑year renewal of Upper Pioneer Valley Veterans’ Service District contract (3‑0)
• Extend FCAT lease for five years (3‑0)
• Authorize SB chair and town administrator to sign opioid settlement documents (3‑0)
• Approve September 8, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Adjourn meeting (3‑0)

Energy Committee

The Sunderland Energy Committee will consider several items, including a report on a Green Communities walk‑through at the SES, a survey on a proposed Transfer Station, and a discussion of a New York Times article about EV charging stations. Members will also plan a meeting with State Rep. Natalie Blais to explore energy upgrades for rental properties. The meeting will conclude with any new business after approving the previous minutes.

• Approve minutes from the Tuesday, August 19th meeting
• Green Communities – report on walk‑through at SES with Kyle Houser and next steps
• Transfer Station Proposal – disseminate survey to Sunderland residents
• EV Charging Stations – discuss NYT article circulated by Meg
• Potential New Projects – schedule meeting with Rep. Natalie Blais on energy upgrades to rental properties

Board of Health / Health Agent

The Board of Health will consider variance and HACCP needs for several local food establishments. It will review the dates and requirements for 2026 food establishment permits, note the absence of the Sunderland Director of Public Health, and address the retirement of Housing Inspector Gina McNeely. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from April 22 and June 11, 2025.

• Review variance/HACCP needs for Bridgeside Grille (9 Amherst Road) and other listed establishments
• Discuss 2026 food establishment permit dates and requirements
• Note absence of Sunderland Director of Public Health
• Address retirement of Housing Inspector Gina McNeely
• Approve minutes from April 22, 2025 and June 11, 2025

The board approved a variance allowing Banchan Korean Deli to prepare fermented and pickled products for retail sale, with a 3‑0 vote. The board also voted 3‑0 not to renew the contract of Sunderland Director of Public Health, Mr. Bell. Additionally, the minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting were approved by a 3‑0 vote. No other actions were taken.

• Approved variance for Banchan Korean Deli (3-0)
• Voted not to renew Director of Public Health Mr. Bell’s contract (3-0)
• Approved June 11, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will discuss site visits regarding erosion on Cross Mountain Rd and other mountain roads. The body will also consider a Certificate of Compliance for the NEP Central Western MA Energy Improvement Project E5/F6.

• Site visits for erosion on Cross Mountain Rd and mountain roads
• Certificate of Compliance for NEP Central Western MA Energy Improvement Project E5/F6
• Stormwater report comments for ZBA
• Drinking water operator at Cliffside Apt
• Educational drought postcards and wildlife habitat/dog cleanup signs

Planning Board

The Sunderland Planning Board will hold a public meeting to discuss agenda items including the Dollar General store and ANR (likely a project or report). The meeting will be held at the Town Offices and via Zoom.

• Dollar General update
• ANR (item on agenda)
• Public Appointments/Questions
• Committee Reports
• Mail (item on agenda)

Assessors Office

The Board of Assessors met on September 8, 2025, at Town Hall. The agenda covered minutes accuracy, appointment procedures, the MV Abatement Program, building‑permit processing, DOR certification requirements, open‑door policy, zoning initiatives, office hours, and tax rates. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The next meeting is scheduled for October 6, 2025.

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Sunderland Selectboard will meet to approve minutes, discuss the hiring of an Assessor Administrator, and review a contract for Civic Plus ADA upgrades. The agenda includes updates from the Opioid Task Force and South County Senior Center, a request for five one-day liquor licenses, and a revote of the Capital Stabilization plan.

• Hiring of Assessor Administrator
• Civic Plus ADA upgrade contract
• Request for five one-day liquor licenses
• Revote of Capital Stabilization for Recap
• Opioid Task Force Updates

The board voted 3-0 to assess an additional $420,122 in real estate and personal property taxes for the 2025 fiscal year to fund the Capital Stabilization Fund. It also approved the appointment of Stephen Nestanpower as Assistant Assessor, a $6,500 contract for Civic Plus ADA website upgrades (with $8,200 maintenance for FY27), and five one‑day liquor licenses for Mike’s Maze. All motions passed unanimously.

• Appointed Stephen Nestanpower as Assistant Assessor (3-0)
• Approved Civic Plus ADA upgrade contract $6,500 this year and $8,200 FY27 maintenance (3-0)
• Assessed additional $420,122 in taxes for Capital Stabilization Fund (3-0)
• Approved five One Day Liquor Licenses for Mike’s Maze (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding an application from Calito Development Group, LLC. The applicant is seeking a Special Permit and/or Variance to construct a retail building and site improvements.

• Proposed 9,100 sq. ft. retail building at Amherst Road – Rt.-116 (Tax Map #9, Plot #44)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard will discuss administrative hiring and updates for the South County Senior Center. The body is also reviewing liquor license requests and fuel bids.

• Mike’s Maze request for five One Day Liquor Licenses
• Sunderland Fuel Bids
• Revision of Common Victauler License
• Assessor Admin hiring activities review
• Review of ABCC Advisory on All Alcoholic Beverage Licenses

The Selectboard accepted the minutes from the July 28 and August 11 meetings (2‑0). It approved the town’s diesel and unleaded fuel bid from DK Burke at $3.14 and $2.95 per gallon (2‑0) and approved the issuance of the previously missed common vic liquor license (2‑0). No action was taken on the new state alcohol‑licensing legislation. The board adjourned the meeting (2‑0).

• Accepted minutes from 7/28/25 and 8/11/25 (2-0)
• Approved DK Burke fuel bid: $3.14/gal diesel, $2.95/gal unleaded (2-0)
• Approved and issued the common vic liquor license (2-0)
• No action taken on ABCC Advisory liquor‑license legislation
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Energy Committee

The Energy Committee is meeting to coordinate a Green Communities walk-through and data collection for MEI. Members will discuss a resident survey regarding a transfer station proposal and potential energy upgrades for rental properties.

• Transfer station proposal resident survey
• Energy upgrades for rental properties
• Municipal aggregation rate publicity for December
• Green Communities walk-through at SES with Kyle Houser
• Meeting scheduling with Rep. Natalie Blais

Assessors Office

The Board of Assessors will meet to conduct regular business and review the monthly list of Motor Vehicle Excise abatements. The meeting also includes the approval of previous minutes.

• Monthly list of MV Excise abatements

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The board voted to adjourn the meeting at 7:01 PM. The motion was made by C. Drake‑Tremblay, seconded by N. Waring, and passed 2‑0. No other substantive actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Finance Committee

The Selectboard approved year‑end transfers of $35,756.58 with a 2‑0 vote. It also approved the appointment of town election workers, transferred $550 for senior‑center design work, accepted a $14,500 audit proposal, approved a one‑day liquor license for August 16, and appointed Ladonna Olanyk to the Council on Aging. All actions were voted on and passed unanimously or by the recorded vote counts.

• Selectboard approved year‑end transfers of $35,756.58 (2‑0)
• Finance Committee approved year‑end transfers as presented (4‑0)
• Selectboard approved appointment of town election workers (2‑0)
• Selectboard appointed Ladonna Olanyk to the Council on Aging (2‑0)
• Selectboard transferred $550 to fund senior‑center design work (2‑0)
• Selectboard accepted Scanlon audit proposal costing $14,500 (2‑0)
• Selectboard approved one‑day liquor license for 8/16/25 at Town Park (2‑0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard approved a one‑day liquor license for an event at Town Park on August 16, 2025. It also approved year‑end transfers of $35,756.58, appointed town election workers, appointed a new Council on Aging member, transferred $550 to fund senior‑center design work, accepted a $14,500 audit proposal, and approved the liquor license, each by unanimous vote.

• Approved year‑end transfers of $35,756.58 (Selectboard vote 2‑0)
• Approved appointment of 17 town election workers (Selectboard vote 2‑0)
• Appointed Ladonna Olanyk to the Council on Aging (Selectboard vote 2‑0)
• Approved $550 transfer to fund senior‑center design work (Selectboard vote 2‑0)
• Accepted Scanlon audit proposal costing $14,500 (Selectboard vote 2‑0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for August 16 event at Town Park (Selectboard vote 2‑0)

Finance Committee

The Selectboard accepted the June 30, 2025 meeting minutes with a 3‑0 vote. It approved and signed the Franklin County Solid Waste MOU, also by a 3‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 7:02 PM with a 3‑0 vote.

• Accepted June 30, 2025 Selectboard minutes (3-0)
• Approved and signed Franklin County Solid Waste MOU (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard voted 3‑0 to accept the July 30, 2025 meeting minutes. It also voted 3‑0 to accept and sign the Franklin County Solid Waste MOU. The board then adjourned the meeting by a 3‑0 vote.

• Accepted July 30, 2025 Selectboard minutes (vote 3-0)
• Accepted and signed Franklin County Solid Waste MOU (vote 3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (vote 3-0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Sunderland Selectboard approved several items, including authorizing the Police Chief to accept a Municibid bid to sell the 2010 Crown Vic and approving the Aponte accounting services contract for FY26. It also approved a letter of support for Hadley's bridge grant and accepted the annual appointment list except for the Council on Aging. All motions passed unanimously.

• Accepted minutes from 5/19/25 and 6/16/25 (3-0)
• Authorized Police Chief to accept Municibid bid to sell 2010 Crown Vic (3-0)
• Approved and sent letter of support for Hadley bridge grant (3-0)
• Approved Aponte contract for FY26 accounting services (same amount as FY25) (3-0)
• Accepted final annual appointment list, excluding Council on Aging (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The board approved the June 2, 2025 Selectboard minutes unanimously. It also approved the draft letter to the Hadley Bridge Grant and confirmed the fire department repair contract for $5,400. The employee’s sick‑bank request was closed, and a one‑day liquor license was deemed unnecessary. Several items were noted for future action.

• Approved June 2, 2025 Selectboard minutes (3‑0)
• Approved letter to Hadley Bridge Grant (3‑0)
• Approved fire department repair contract for $5,400 (already approved)
• Closed employee sick‑bank request after review
• Determined one‑day liquor license no longer needed
• Deferred further action on Graves Memorial Library repairs pending more information
• Continued Capital Stabilization Override FY26 recap vote to June 30 meeting
• Discussed South County Senior Center funding change; no immediate decision

Board of Health / Health Agent

The Board of Health approved the minutes from the April 22 and May 19, 2025 meetings, each by a 3‑0 vote. The remodel plans for 156 Russell St., a three‑bedroom septic design, were approved. All board officer positions (Chairman, Clerk, Member) were elected and approved by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved April 22, 2025 meeting minutes – vote 3‑0
• Approved May 19, 2025 meeting minutes – vote 3‑0
• Approved remodel plans for 156 Russell St.
• Elected Chairman Bruce Bennett, Clerk Dan Olanyk, Member Ken Kushi – vote 3‑0

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The board approved an additional 80 sick‑bank hours for an employee, authorized the town administrator to sign a three‑year municipal electrical aggregation contract, and adopted the Energy Committee’s recommendation to offer three renewable electricity options. It also accepted a PFAS remediation proposal from Tighe & Bond, approved a drain‑repair contract up to $1,000, and postponed the capital‑stabilization override vote.

• Approved additional 80 sick‑bank hours (3-0)
• Authorized Administrator to sign 3‑year municipal electrical aggregation contract (3-0)
• Accepted Energy Committee recommendation to set municipal aggregation with three product options (3-0)
• Accepted Tighe & Bond PFAS proposal ($13,600‑$20,000) (2-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved Karls Excavating contract to repair PSC drain up to $1,000 (3-0)
• Postponed Capital Stabilization Override FY26 vote (no decision)
• Accepted amended minutes from 4/28/25 (3-0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The board unanimously accepted the minutes from the April 28 and May 5 meetings. It approved extending the Sick Bank by 80 hours for an applicant, placed the town’s Land Acknowledgement on the website’s About page, and signed the attestation for Chief Demetropoulos’s POST recertification. All motions passed with a 3‑0 vote.

• Accept minutes from 4/28/25 and 5/5/25 (3‑0)
• Approve extension of 80 sick‑bank hours to applicant (3‑0)
• Approve placement of Land Acknowledgement on town website under “About” tab (3‑0)
• Approve signing of attestation for Chief Demetropoulos’s POST recertification (3‑0)

Board of Health / Health Agent

The board deferred approval of the April 22, 2025 meeting minutes to the next meeting. Election of Board of Health officers was also postponed until the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned after the motion passed.

• Postponed approval of April 22, 2025 minutes to next meeting
• Postponed election of Board of Health officers to next meeting
• Motion to adjourn approved

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Sunderland Selectboard approved the May 22 minutes and accepted a required disclosure from a special municipal employee. Members were nominated and confirmed as chair (N. Waring), vice‑chair (C. Drake‑Tremblay) and clerk (D. Murphy). The board also approved adding a direct link to Town Resolutions on the main page of the town website. All actions passed unanimously (3‑0).

• Accepted May 22 minutes (3‑0)
• Accepted GL 268a disclosure from M. Arquin (3‑0)
• Nominated N. Waring as Selectboard Chair (3‑0)
• Nominated C. Drake‑Tremblay as Selectboard Vice‑Chair (3‑0)
• Nominated D. Murphy as Selectboard Clerk (3‑0)
• Re‑appointed all members to their existing committees (3‑0)
• Approved adding a link to Town Resolutions on the main website page (3‑0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The board accepted the minutes from the April 7 meeting (3‑0) and postponed the April 14 minutes to the next meeting. They approved a $5800 grant for new fire chief equipment (3‑0). The meeting was then adjourned (3‑0). No other formal actions were taken.

• Accepted minutes from 4/07/25 (vote 3‑0)
• Held minutes from 4/14/25 for next meeting
• Approved $5800 fire chief equipment grant (vote 3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (vote 3‑0)

Board of Health / Health Agent

The Board accepted the March 3 minutes with a 3‑0 vote. It approved a permit for Alex F. to reconstruct the deck at 41 South Plain Rd, adding a site‑plan contingency, also by a 3‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted March 3 minutes (3-0)
• Approved deck reconstruction permit for 41 South Plain Rd with site‑plan contingency (3-0)
• Motion to adjourn approved (3-0)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the FY26 town budget, a $472,173.90 warrant for the Graves Memorial Library masonry work, and the police chief's three‑year contract with a $107,080 salary. It also appointed a new Board of Health clerk, hired a seasonal highway laborer, and adopted an amended VADAR accounting‑software contract. The Capital Stabilization override accounts were increased by 2.5% and the Cap Stabilization Plan FY26 recommendations were accepted.

• Approved Warrant #9 for $472,173.90 library restoration (3‑0)
• Approved police chief 3‑year contract with $107,080 salary and residency clause (3‑0)
• Appointed Kathern Forte Pierce as Board of Health Clerk (3‑0)
• Approved hiring Christine Walker Miller as seasonal Highway laborer (3‑0)
• Approved amended VADAR accounting‑software contract (3‑0)
• Accepted Cap Stabilization Plan Committee FY26 recommendations (3‑0)
• Increased Capital Stabilization override accounts by 2.5% ($409,883.50) (3‑0)
• Approved FY26 Budget using reserves and revenue adjustments (3‑0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Selectboard voted unanimously to adopt the FY26 town budget. It also approved several contracts and appointments, including a $472,173.90 library repair warrant and a new three‑year police chief contract with a salary of $107,080. Additional actions included hiring a seasonal highway worker, amending the VADAR software agreement, and increasing capital‑stabilization overrides.

• Approved $472,173.90 library masonry repair warrant (3-0)
• Approved police chief 3‑year contract with salary $107,080 and residency requirement (3-0)
• Appointed Kathern Forte Pierce as Board of Health Clerk (3-0)
• Approved hiring Christine Walker Miller as seasonal Highway laborer (3-0)
• Approved amended VADAR accounting software contract (3-0)
• Accepted Capital Stabilization Plan Committee FY26 recommendations (3-0)
• Increased Capital Stabilization override accounts by $409,883.50 (3-0)
• Approved FY26 town budget (3-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee accepted the March 24, 2025 Selectboard minutes by a 3‑0 vote. The Selectboard then approved the Town Clerk’s request for early in‑office voting from April 28 to May 1, 2025, also by a 3‑0 vote. Both bodies adjourned their meetings with unanimous votes.

• Accept SB minutes from 3/24/25 (3-0)
• Approve Early In‑Office Voting April 28‑May 1 (3-0)
• Finance Committee adjourns meeting (4-0)
• Selectboard adjourns meeting (3-0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Finance Committee and Selectboard accepted the prior meeting minutes. The board approved the Town Clerk's request for early in‑office voting from April 28 to May 1, 2025. Both committees then adjourned their meetings.

• Accepted Selectboard minutes from 3/24/25 (vote 3-0)
• Approved Town Clerk early in‑office voting request (vote 3-0)
• Adjourned Finance Committee meeting (vote 4-0)
• Adjourned Selectboard meeting (vote 3-0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The board approved the minutes from the February and March meetings. It accepted the Insurance Advisory Committee’s recommendations on health‑insurance changes, pending further review. The board also authorized a letter of support for the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative and decided to postpone advertising the Animal Control Officer position until July 1.

• Accepted SB/FC minutes from 2/18/25, 3/03/25, 3/17/25 (3-0)
• Accepted Insurance Advisory Committee health‑insurance recommendations, contingent on review (3-0)
• Decided to hold off advertising the Animal Control Officer position until July 1 (no vote recorded)
• Authorized writing a letter of support for the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (3-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (3-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved the minutes from the February 24 and March 10 meetings by a 3‑0 vote. No substantive budget or policy actions were decided during this session. The committee then adjourned by a 4‑0 vote. The Selectboard also adjourned by a 3‑0 vote.

• Accepted SB/FC minutes from 2/24/25 and 3/10/25 (vote 3-0)
• Finance Committee adjourned (vote 4-0)
• Selectboard adjourned (vote 3-0)

Selectboard or Town Administrator

The Finance Committee approved the February 24 and March 10 minutes by a 3‑0 vote. The Selectboard also approved those minutes by a 3‑0 vote. Both bodies then adjourned, with the Finance Committee voting 4‑0 and the Selectboard voting 3‑0. No budget items were formally approved or denied during this meeting.

• Finance Committee accepted Feb. 24 and Mar. 10 minutes (3-0)
• Selectboard accepted Feb. 24 and Mar. 10 minutes (3-0)
• Finance Committee adjourned meeting (4-0)
• Selectboard adjourned meeting (3-0)