September 14–20, 2026

Meeting in a joint session with the Advisory Committee, the Southborough Select Board reviewed proposed warrant articles for the upcoming Special Town Meeting, including zoning for two-family dwellings and CPA requests. The board ultimately voted 1-4 against supporting additional CPA funding for a pedestrian bridge on the Peninsula Trail, while unanimously supporting a $1.087 million golf course irrigation system project. The Select Board also acted as Water Commissioners to grant partial abatement on a high water bill, approved municipal paving and fuel contracts, and debated updates to municipal procurement and budget policies.

• Zoning amendment for two-family dwellings

  Zoning & development. Watch at 8:24

  Zoning Board of Appeals representative Doris Cahill presented a proposed warrant article to eliminate the mandatory two-year waiting period to convert a single-family house into a two-family dwelling or build new two-family housing. The change aims to clarify zoning definitions, differentiate two-family homes from accessory dwelling units, and encourage affordable housing options. Members discussed density concerns, lot requirements, and potential floor amendments at Town Meeting.

  • Eliminates the two-year waiting period to convert a single-family dwelling to a two-family home.
  • Allows new construction of two-family homes by special permit.
  • Clarifies definitions to differentiate two-family dwellings from accessory dwelling units.
  • Planning Board suggested minor wording revisions prior to Town Meeting.
  • Select Board voted 4-1 later in the meeting to recommend the article.

  Outcome: Select Board voted 4-1 to recommend approval at Special Town Meeting.

  Why it matters: Changes would make it easier to construct or convert two-family homes across residential zones in town, impacting neighborhood density and housing availability.

• CPA request for Peninsula Trail pedestrian bridge

  Parks, trails & recreation. Watch at 58:15

  The Trails Committee and Community Preservation Committee presented an article requesting $217,318 in additional CPA funds for a 65-foot prefabricated pedestrian bridge along the Peninsula Trail on the Framingham border. The initial 2024 appropriation of $211,232 was insufficient after bids came in significantly higher than expected, leading to a redesigned, smaller project scope with a total estimated cost of $428,550. Several Advisory Committee and Select Board members criticized the cost and questioned whether municipal recreation funds should take priority over operating budget strains.

  • Requested an additional $217,318 in CPA funding, bringing total project cost to $428,550.
  • Covers a 65-foot prefabricated fiberglass-reinforced polymer bridge along Route 30.
  • Original scope included a boardwalk and paving, but those were removed or funded separately.
  • Trails Committee plans to apply for a $100,000 MassTrails grant in 2027 to partially reimburse funds.
  • Advisory Committee member Al Hamilton called the project a bridge to nowhere.

  Outcome: Select Board voted 1-4 against supporting the warrant article.

  Why it matters: The project would spend over $400,000 in CPA funds to connect pedestrian trail segments, but failed to win Select Board support due to cost concerns.

• CPA request for golf course irrigation system

  Parks, trails & recreation. Watch at 1:03:43

  Golf Committee Chair Tony Schunner and DPW Director Bill Cundiff requested supplementary funding to replace the failing irrigation system at the municipal golf course, bringing total project funding to $1,087,000. An initial $500,000 approval proved inadequate when bids arrived between $800,000 and $850,000, requiring engineering redesigns, a new pump station, and directional boring. The request includes $100,000 from the Golf Course Revolving Fund, with the remaining balance funded by the Community Preservation Act.

  • Total revised project budget is $1,087,000, up from the original $500,000 appropriation.
  • Golf Course Revolving Fund will contribute $100,000 toward the total cost.
  • Redesign includes horizontal boring under streams and an added booster pump station.
  • Construction is estimated to take six weeks during the playing season using cordoned work areas.
  • Select Board voted 5-0 later in the meeting to recommend the article with minor corrections.

  Outcome: Select Board voted 5-0 to recommend approval at Special Town Meeting.

  Why it matters: The town is committing over $1 million to maintain the municipal golf course asset, addressing infrastructure needed to keep the course operational and commercially viable.

• Appointments to Tri-Centennial Committee

  Governance & committees. Watch at 2:03:10

  The Select Board interviewed and appointed two residents, Amy Dennis and Terry Picard, to open seats on the Tri-Centennial Committee to help organize upcoming town 300th anniversary events. The appointments are for terms expiring June 30, 2027, subject to committee confirmation.

  • Candidates bring background experience in corporate operations, risk management, and local volunteering.
  • Appointments run through June 30, 2027.
  • Town 300th anniversary celebration preparations are accelerating with under four months until the anniversary year.

  Outcome: Approved unanimously, 5-0.

• Town administrative and regional transit updates

  Governance & committees. Watch at 2:09:02

  The chair reported the appointment of Amy Peery as Interim Town Clerk effective October 1, ahead of Jim Hegarty's upcoming retirement. Select Board member Sam Stivers reported that the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority launched two new bus routes connecting the commuter rail station to the Solomon Pond Mall area and Route 9 businesses. Town Administrator Mark Purple announced that a consultant studying municipal government structure will present initial findings to the board on October 6.

  • Amy Peery appointed Interim Town Clerk starting September 23 with full appointment effective October 1 through May 11, 2027.
  • MWRTA introduced Route 302 and Route 309 connecting local transit hubs fare-free.
  • Community Software Solutions government structure survey due September 22; consultant presentation set for October 6, 2026.
  • The annual 9/11 anniversary remembrance ceremony was held the previous Friday.

  Outcome: Informational updates only; no formal vote taken.

• Contracts for FY27 road paving, sidewalks, and fuel oil

  Roads, water & infrastructure. Watch at 2:19:52

  DPW Director Bill Cundiff presented contract awards for fiscal year 2027 road paving, sidewalk maintenance, and municipal heating oil. Paving bids came in roughly $400,000 below engineering estimates, covering six roads including sections of Cordaville Road and Cranberry Road. The board also awarded the municipal #2 fuel oil contract.

  • Paving covers six roads, including interim maintenance on Cordaville and Cranberry roads ahead of long-term state TIP projects.
  • Bid pricing came in well below engineering estimates.
  • Fuel oil contract for fiscal year 2027 awarded to Bellco Energy at $2.99 per gallon.

  Outcome: Select Board approved both contract awards unanimously, 5-0.

  Why it matters: Favorable paving bids allow the DPW to complete planned road and sidewalk improvements below budget across several major corridors.

• Water bill appeal: 104 Boston Road

  Roads, water & infrastructure. Watch at 2:24:55

  Acting as the Water Commissioners, the Select Board considered an appeal by Carolyn Golbankian regarding a $2,872.03 water bill resulting from an underground pipe leak during February and March. The normal quarterly bill is approximately $280, and the town wholesale water cost from the MWRA for the excess volume was roughly $639. The board agreed to grant a partial abatement, setting the final bill amount at $1,100.

  • One member recused due to a business relationship with the property owner.
  • Pipe leak resulted in an uncharacteristically high bill of $2,872.03.
  • Town out-of-pocket wholesale water cost was approximately $639.
  • DPW noted that commercial insurance for private service lines is available for about $5 per month.

  Outcome: Select Board approved reducing the bill to $1,100 on a 4-0-1 vote (one member recused).

• Municipal financial and procurement policies

  Budget & taxes. Watch at 2:33:45

  The Select Board reviewed several municipal financial policies, approving updates to the purchasing policy while shelving the state DOR reserve policy recommendations because the town does not hold the recommended reserve levels. The board engaged in a detailed discussion about a proposed budget policy defining the respective roles of the Select Board, Town Administrator, and Advisory Committee in budget development and warrant preparation, deciding to consult Town Counsel and the Department of Revenue.

  • DOR reserve policy shelved to prevent bond rating downgrades for having policies the town cannot meet.
  • Purchasing policy approved with clerical updates.
  • Conflict of interest policy for bid evaluations tabled pending Town Counsel review.
  • Budget development policy tabled to seek clarification from state officials on statutory versus advisory committee roles.

  Outcome: Purchasing policy approved 5-0; other policies tabled or shelved.

• Warrant article positions for Special Town Meeting

  Governance & committees. Watch at 3:06:55

  The Select Board voted on formal positions for eight Special Town Meeting warrant articles. The board endorsed seven articles including the town clerk vacancy, two-family zoning amendments, golf course irrigation, stormwater exploration, rescinding unissued debt, water main extensions, and raising the personal property tax exemption, but opposed the Peninsula Trail bridge.

  • Article 1 (Town Clerk vacancy): Supported 5-0.
  • Article 2 (Two-family dwellings zoning): Supported 4-1.
  • Article 3 (Golf course irrigation CPA): Supported 5-0 with clerical amendments.
  • Article 4 (Peninsula Trail bridge CPA): Support failed 1-4.
  • Article 5 (Stormwater exploration): Supported 4-1.
  • Article 6 (Rescind authorized unissued debt): Supported 5-0.

  Outcome: Select Board finalized positions for the Special Town Meeting warrant.

  Why it matters: Select Board recommendations will be printed in the warrant booklet guiding voters at the upcoming Special Town Meeting.

Votes

Public comment

• A resident spoke in favor of granting full water bill relief to Golbankian Farms, noting its long history in town since 1920, and urged the town to expedite the installation of smart water meters to help prevent surprise leak bills. 3:05:28

Next steps and dates mentioned

• September 22, 2026: Deadline for municipal government structure surveys
• October 6, 2026: CSS municipal government structure study presentation to the Select Board
• October 17, 2026: Special Town Meeting

The Southborough Advisory Committee reviewed and voted recommendations on eight warrant articles for the upcoming October Special Town Meeting. The committee voted against recommended approval for zoning amendments easing two-family home conversions, as well as Community Preservation Act funding requests for golf course irrigation and a pedestrian bridge on the Peninsula Trail. Members voted to support changing the town clerk position to an appointed office, creating a stormwater enterprise fund, rescinding unused borrowing authorizations, and raising the personal property tax exemption.

• Article 1: Appointed Town Clerk

  Governance & committees. Watch at 1:21

  The committee discussed a warrant article proposing to change the town clerk position from an elected office to an appointed office with a term not to exceed three years. Members noted the increasingly technical nature of the role and the advantage of being able to recruit qualified applicants from outside Southborough, though some members expressed concerns regarding Select Board removal authority.

  • Proposes transitioning town clerk from elected to appointed by the Select Board for up to a three-year term.
  • Requires approval at Town Meeting followed by a ballot question or special act of the legislature.
  • Incumbent town clerk Jim Hegarty is retiring, and an interim clerk was previously appointed.
  • Committee members cited need for technical qualifications and a wider hiring pool beyond town borders.

  Outcome: Recommended approval by a 6-0 vote.

  Why it matters: Changes town governance structure and removes direct voter election for the town clerk position.

• Article 2: Zoning Code amendment for two-family dwellings

  Zoning & development. Watch at 17:44

  Members reviewed a Zoning Board of Appeals proposal to amend the zoning code regarding two-family dwellings, including removing the current two-year waiting period for converting single-family homes into two-family units. Opponents voiced concern about community density, impacts on town services and schools, and environmental concerns regarding septic system capacity, while supporters noted the regional need for diverse and affordable housing.

  • Proposes adding definitions, permitting new construction by special permit, and removing a two-year waiting period for single-family conversions.
  • Updates lot sizes to match current zoning district requirements.
  • Concerns raised over lack of restrictions on flipping properties and density impacts in Residential B zones.
  • Select Board had previously voted 4-1 in support of the article.

  Outcome: Motion to recommend approval failed 3-4, resulting in a recommendation to not support.

  Why it matters: Affects residential zoning rules and potential housing density across town neighborhoods.

• Article 3: CPA funding for golf course irrigation

  Parks, trails & recreation. Watch at 28:55

  The committee considered an article seeking $433,346 in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds, paired with $100,000 from the Golf Course Revolving Fund, for a new irrigation system at the Southborough Golf Club. Members strongly objected to town taxpayers funding nearly the entire cost of the project through CPA funds when the golf course is intended to be self-sustaining, suggesting golfers pay user surcharges instead.

  • Requests $433,346 from CPA funds and $100,000 from the Golf Course Revolving Fund.
  • Supplements prior 2024 appropriation of roughly $515,000 for a total project cost of $1,087,296.
  • Members argued the golf revolving fund should bear more than roughly 10 percent of the new appropriation.
  • Member calculations showed a $1.50 per-round surcharge over 20 years could fund a municipal loan instead.

  Outcome: Motion to recommend approval failed 0-7, resulting in a recommendation to not support.

  Why it matters: Involves over $433,000 in local preservation tax funds for recreational town property.

• Article 4: CPA funding for Peninsula Trail footbridge

  Parks, trails & recreation. Watch at 39:00

  The Trails Committee sought a supplemental CPA appropriation of $217,318 to construct a 65-foot prefabricated pedestrian footbridge along Route 30 to connect two sections of the Peninsula Trail. Committee members expressed sticker shock at the total project cost of $428,550 and questioned contingency percentages and alternative crossings before voting unanimously against recommending approval.

  • Requests $217,318 in CPA funds, adding to $211,232 previously approved for a total of $428,550.
  • Funds a 65-foot modular bridge crossing a stream over MWRA property.
  • Budget includes a 15 percent cost escalation allowance and a 20 percent construction contingency.
  • Trails Committee representative explained the bridge has a 75-year lifespan and requires modular installation due to site access limits.

  Outcome: Motion to recommend approval failed 0-7, resulting in a recommendation to not support.

  Why it matters: Decides whether to recommend allocating substantial CPA funds for trail infrastructure.

• Article 5: Stormwater Enterprise Fund establishment

  Budget & taxes. Watch at 58:28

  The committee reviewed an article to establish a Stormwater Enterprise Fund beginning in fiscal year 2028 under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Section 53F 1/2. Members noted the article only creates the accounting mechanism, while specific fee structures and annual operating budgets would require separate Town Meeting approvals in the future.

  • Establishes a dedicated enterprise fund starting in FY28 for town stormwater management.
  • Does not set fees or tax rates; future budgets and impervious surface fee structures require town meeting vote.
  • Designed to capture stormwater management revenue from large impervious surface properties such as businesses and schools.

  Outcome: Recommended approval by a 7-0 vote.

  Why it matters: Lays the groundwork for a dedicated municipal utility and future stormwater fees for property owners.

• Article 6: Rescinding authorized unissued debt

  Budget & taxes. Watch at 1:05:30

  The committee considered an administrative article to rescind unused borrowing authority totaling over $1.1 million from two completed or substantially finished town projects. Rescinding the authority clears the town books and prevents unauthorized future borrowing.

  • Rescinds $727,960 in authorized borrowing for the Breakneck Hill Farm dump cleanup approved in 2014.
  • Rescinds $375,000 authorized for the Neary School feasibility study approved in 2022.
  • Funds are no longer needed as the projects are complete or completed with other funds.

  Outcome: Recommended approval by a 7-0 vote.

  Why it matters: Cleans up town debt authorizations and prevents unnecessary municipal borrowing.

• Article 7: Water Retained Earnings for landfill radius home connections

  Roads, water & infrastructure. Watch at 1:07:26

  The committee reviewed an article appropriating $240,000 from Water Retained Earnings to connect two private homes within the testing radius of the Parkerville Road landfill to town water. Members discussed whether the town is responsible for the entire connection cost up to the houses versus extending the water main in the street, choosing to hold the article to obtain legal and procedural clarification.

  • Proposes appropriating $240,000 from Water Retained Earnings to connect two homes near the Parkerville Road landfill.
  • High cost is driven by the need to extend the town water main closer to the properties.
  • Members questioned whether town policy requires homeowners to pay for service connections on private property.
  • Committee deferred voting until questions on town policy and liability are answered.

  Outcome: Held without a vote pending clarification on town connection policies.

Votes

Next steps and dates mentioned

• October 6, 2026 at 7:30 PM: Advisory Committee meeting to review draft report
• October 13, 2026 at 7:30 PM: Advisory Committee meeting for final vote on report
• October 17, 2026: Special Town Meeting

The Southborough Zoning Board of Appeals held a remote meeting to address several land use matters. The board approved a frontage variance for a proposed two-lot residential project at 0 Northborough Road following extensive legal discussion regarding access and subdivision requirements, while the applicant withdrew a companion special permit request. Additionally, the board approved minor clerical revisions to a two-family dwelling zoning bylaw amendment slated for the October Special Town Meeting warrant and agreed to prepare future bylaw updates conforming to revised state zoning standards.

• 40-42 Central Street hearing continuance

  Zoning & development. Watch at 0:18

  The applicant for 40-42 Central Street requested a continuance because work is underway to pave and inspect required accessible parking spaces. The board noted this remains an outstanding compliance item with the building commissioner, along with pending site plan approval matters before the Planning Board.

  • Address: 40-42 Central Street
  • Applicant requested continuance to allow paving of handicap parking spaces
  • Paving must be completed and inspected prior to board review
  • Hearing continued to October 21, 2026 at 7:00 PM

  Outcome: Continued to October 21, 2026 at 7:00 PM.

• Aligning local zoning bylaws with state Zoning Act changes

  Zoning & development. Watch at 6:47

  Staff and town counsel briefed the board on recent amendments enacted by state legislation to the Massachusetts Zoning Act, particularly concerning standards for pre-existing non-conforming structures and variances. The board agreed to work with town counsel to draft conforming amendments to town bylaws and board policies ahead of the Annual Town Meeting warrant deadline on December 14.

  • State legislative revisions updated standards under Section 6 and Section 10 of M.G.L. Chapter 40A
  • Changes introduce practical difficulty standards and reduce traditional hardship burdens, especially for residential uses
  • Town counsel recommended mirroring statutory language verbatim where possible
  • Warrant articles for Annual Town Meeting are due to the Select Board by December 14

  Outcome: Staff and town counsel will prepare draft warrant language for the board to review in October.

• 0 Northborough Road frontage variance and special permit

  Zoning & development. Watch at 15:00

  The board resumed a public hearing on an application by Bartolini Properties LLC seeking frontage relief for property at 0 Northborough Road (Map 62, Lot 3) in the Residence A district. The applicant sought a variance to allow a 15-foot wide Massachusetts Water Resources Authority easement/right-of-way to serve as frontage for two proposed residential lots on a common driveway. After town counsel clarified that the board had authority to grant the frontage variance but could not create lots or override subdivision control requirements that fall under the Planning Board, the board approved the variance as drafted and accepted the withdrawal of the companion special permit application.

  • Property location: 0 Northborough Road off Northborough Road, Map 62 Lot 3 (9.29 acres)
  • Relief requested under Section 174-8.2 D(2) for 15 feet of frontage/right-of-way access instead of standard frontage
  • Access crosses state-owned MWRA land through an existing deeded right-of-way
  • Town counsel noted the project will still require subdivision approval from the Planning Board because an Approval Not Required plan cannot rely on a variance
  • Variance approved 5-0; special permit withdrawn and accepted 5-0

  Outcome: Approved the variance as drafted (5-0) and accepted withdrawal of the special permit (5-0).

  Why it matters: Grants zoning relief allowing access across an existing right-of-way to develop two residential building lots on a back parcel, though further Planning Board approvals will be required.

• Two-family dwelling zoning bylaw amendments for Town Meeting

  Zoning & development. Watch at 1:14:18

  The board reviewed final edits to a proposed zoning bylaw amendment governing two-family dwellings, which is scheduled as Article 2 on the October Special Town Meeting warrant. Revisions included removing redundant terms such as 'duplex' and 'townhouse' from definition sections and correcting minor clerical duplicate phrasing identified by the Select Board. The board approved the revised text for submission to the Select Board, which will hold a brief meeting to reopen and re-close the warrant with the corrected language.

  • Article 2 on the Special Town Meeting warrant scheduled for October 17, 2026
  • Removes the former two-year waiting period to convert or construct two-family dwellings by special permit
  • Removes parenthetical examples 'duplex' and 'townhouse' to avoid terminology confusion
  • Corrects inadvertent clerical duplicate wording across multiple zoning district sections
  • The Select Board will hold a special meeting September 24 at 8:00 AM to execute the clean warrant

  Outcome: Approved the modified warrant language 5-0 for transmission to the Select Board.

  Why it matters: Updates the town's zoning bylaw to facilitate new construction and conversions of two-family homes without a multi-year waiting period, pending approval by voters at Special Town Meeting.

Votes

Public comment

• A relative of the applicant spoke in support of the 0 Northborough Road variance, noting a past instance on Oak Hill Road where the town permitted development accessing through a right-of-way across a water department property. 1:06:15

Next steps and dates mentioned

• September 24, 2026 at 8:00 AM: Select Board special virtual meeting to reopen and sign the revised Special Town Meeting warrant
• October 17, 2026 at 10:00 AM: Special Town Meeting
• October 21, 2026 at 7:00 PM: Zoning Board of Appeals continued hearing for 40-42 Central Street and regular meeting
• December 14, 2026: Annual Town Meeting warrant article submission deadline to Select Board

The Conservation Commission voted 4-1 to ask the Select Board to preserve $100,000 in unused borrowing capacity for Breakneck Hill Farm dump restoration rather than fully rescinding it at Town Meeting. The commission also reviewed FY28 budget proposals, expressing concern that a required reduction scenario would cut 125.2 hours from the Conservation Agent's position. Multiple public hearings were continued to the October 8 meeting, including projects at 1 Overlook Drive, 250 Turnpike Road, and 0 Southville Road. The agent reported on regional environmental review for a proposed Costco and ongoing enforcement at 35 Walnut Drive.

• Notice of Intent: 1 Overlook Drive pool project

  Environment & conservation. Watch at 1:25

  The commission opened a public hearing for the construction of a 40-by-16-foot inground pool, patio, and cabana within the wetland buffer zone. Commissioners and staff raised concerns regarding machinery access, the proximity of construction to the 20-foot no-disturb line, erosion controls, and potential mitigation plantings.

  • Property location is 1 Overlook Drive, Map 66, Lot 34, owned by Ron Eppen.
  • Proposed work includes an inground saltwater pool and a 12-by-12-foot cabana.
  • Staff requested that erosion controls and construction access routes be added directly to the site plan.
  • The commission requires a state Department of Environmental Protection file number before closing the hearing.

  Outcome: Hearing continued to October 8, 2026.

• Breakneck Hill Farm dump restoration borrowing capacity

  Budget & taxes. Watch at 16:20

  Members of the Stewardship Committee requested that the Conservation Commission ask the Select Board to adjust an upcoming Town Meeting warrant article. The article would rescind remaining authorized borrowing for the Breakneck Hill Farm dump remediation. Stewardship asked to preserve $100,000 of borrowing authorization to supplement the $176,000 cash balance on hand for habitat restoration, soil de-compaction, trail and parking repairs, and vernal pool work. One commissioner opposed preserving the bonding authority due to broader town tax burdens, while others supported retaining flexibility in case contractor bids exceed available cash.

  • Town meetings previously authorized approximately $4.3 million to $4.4 million in borrowing for dump cleanup, of which roughly $3.4 million was expended.
  • Approximately $727,000 in unissued borrowing capacity was slated to be rescinded on the Town Meeting warrant.
  • The project account currently has about $176,000 in cash remaining.
  • An upcoming engineering and restoration design request for proposals is estimated to cost around $25,000.

  Outcome: Commission voted 4-1 to send a letter requesting the Select Board reduce the rescinded borrowing capacity by $100,000.

  Why it matters: Rescinding or retaining borrowing capacity directly affects town debt limits, future capital project capacity, and property tax obligations.

• FY28 budget requests and staffing

  Budget & taxes. Watch at 52:45

  The conservation agent presented preliminary FY28 budget scenarios following town administration guidelines. Request A represents level services with standard salary increases totaling $180,527, while Request B forces a reduction down to FY27 request levels ($173,249). Because non-salary operating line items total only $37,000 to $39,000, meeting Request B would require reducing the full-time conservation agent by 125.2 hours per year, saving roughly $6,000. Commissioners voiced strong frustration over penalizing efficient small departments and agreed to delay formal action until the agent prepares a detailed explanatory memo for town officials.

  • Request A total is $180,527, representing a 4.1 percent overall increase largely driven by personnel board salary rates.
  • Request B total is $173,249, matching the prior year request baseline.
  • Request B would reduce the conservation agent position from 2,080 hours to approximately 1,955 hours annually.
  • The agent noted cutting staff hours would increase town reliance on outside peer review consultants paid by applicants.

  Outcome: Discussion held; formal vote postponed to the October 8 meeting.

  Why it matters: Reductions in department staffing hours can slow down environmental permit reviews and increase development project fees.

• Conservation Agent report

  Environment & conservation. Watch at 1:20:10

  The conservation agent provided updates on regional development and local enforcement. Topics included the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act site visit for the proposed regional Costco, which will require signal timing adjustments at Route 9 and Crystal Pond Road; an active stop-work order for unpermitted tree clearing and grading at 35 Walnut Drive near the Town Forest; and the agent appointment as the town local government representative for expedited clean energy project permitting under new state regulations.

  • Costco project will require an Expanded Environmental Notification Form due to projected traffic trip counts.
  • A building inspector issued an immediate stop-work order at 35 Walnut Drive for unpermitted activity near wetlands.
  • The agent was appointed as the local government representative under state Department of Energy Resources regulations for small clean energy project permitting taking effect October 1.

  Outcome: Information received; no formal votes taken.

Votes

Next steps and dates mentioned

• October 8, 2026: Next Conservation Commission meeting
• October 8, 2026: Finalize and vote on FY28 budget request memo
• October 8, 2026: Continued hearings for 1 Overlook Drive, 0 Marlboro Junction, 250 Turnpike Road, and 0 Southville Road

The Library Board of Trustees addressed FY28 budget planning under guidance from town administration requiring two budget scenarios ahead of an anticipated town-wide tax override vote. If the override fails, the library faces eliminating line items for programming, staff development, and travel, while cutting subscriptions by more than half. The board also approved exterior lighting and electrical improvements for the town tricentennial, adopted updated fees and rules for lending mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, and postponed a decision on purchasing new display furniture.

• FY28 budget planning and override scenarios

  Budget & taxes. Watch at 2:50

  The library director reported that the town finance director asked department heads to prepare two FY28 budget submissions earlier than usual due to a planned spring tax override ballot question. Budget A assumes the override passes and seeks level services based on FY27, while Budget B assumes the override fails and would completely eliminate line items for programming, professional development, and in-state travel, while cutting subscriptions by more than half. Trustees discussed the risk of repeating severe cuts experienced during the pandemic and decided to meet October 5 to review the complete budget narrative and vote.

  • Town instructed departments to submit two FY28 budgets: one if an override passes and one if it fails.
  • An override failure would eliminate programming, staff training, and travel, and reduce database subscriptions by more than half.
  • The library faces a mandatory CW MARS network assessment increase of $1,845.
  • Trustees noted the Southborough library budget makes up 0.93 percent of municipal spending compared to a 1.24 percent statewide average.
  • Board members agreed to hold a special meeting on October 5 to vote on the budget drafts ahead of the town's October 13 deadline.

  Outcome: Board directed the director to draft Budget A using FY27 baseline figures and scheduled a budget vote for October 5, 2026.

  Why it matters: If voters do not approve a town-wide tax override, the library would face major cuts to community programs, educational databases, and staff development.

• Library facilities and mobile display furniture proposal

  Governance & committees. Watch at 21:10

  The director provided updates on maintenance projects, including replacing indoor lighting and repairing a concrete platform on the first Saturday of October, which requires moving book drop bins temporarily to the lawn. The board also considered purchasing a commercial mobile pillar display unit for staff book picks costing approximately $3,500. Several trustees voiced concerns about the cost during a difficult budget cycle and debated whether moving staff selections would diminish their visibility or conflict with ongoing floral arrangements.

  • The concrete entrance platform will be repaired on the first Saturday of October, temporarily moving exterior book drops to the lawn.
  • The director proposed purchasing a mobile pillar display unit from Demco for roughly $3,500 to expand exhibit space.
  • Trustees raised questions about spending $3,500 in an uncertain budget environment and how it affects sightlines with library flower arrangements.

  Outcome: The board tabled the furniture proposal for one month to allow trustees to examine the proposed area in person.

• Tricentennial celebration lighting and outdoor power

  Governance & committees. Watch at 37:00

  The director presented a request from the town Tricentennial committee to install decorative exterior lighting at the library in December, including lighted wreaths, window candles, and string lights on three trees and one shrub. The Tricentennial committee will fund the installation of permanent exterior electrical outlets on the property, providing long-sought outdoor power for future library events. The board approved the exterior decoration and electrical work, while leaving decisions on hosting indoor open house activities for later discussion.

  • Decoration plans include exterior wreaths with lights, window candles, and wrapping three trees and one shrub in string lights.
  • The Tricentennial committee will pay to install permanent exterior electrical outlets on the grounds.
  • Facilities staff confirmed the exterior electrical infrastructure will remain permanently for library use.
  • Trustees discussed potential scheduling conflicts with winter community events and deferred any decisions on opening the facility after hours.

  Outcome: Approved unanimously.

• Capital requests and parking lot drainage update

  Roads, water & infrastructure. Watch at 43:18

  The director briefed trustees on library capital planning, noting that a full replacement of the library parking lot will not be submitted for FY28. The Facilities department found that required site engineering to protect the water table and manage runoff with granite additions will make the project too expensive to fund soon. The project will instead be proposed for town capital planning two to three years in the future.

  • The library parking lot project will be deferred for submission in two to three years rather than FY28.
  • Engineering assessments require granite features to manage water flow and protect the water table, driving up costs.
  • The library director confirmed the project is too costly to be subsidized by library state aid funds.
  • A proposed town IT project involving the library remains in preliminary scoping.

  Outcome: Capital parking lot request deferred to future town capital plan cycles.

• Wireless hotspot lending policy revision

  Governance & committees. Watch at 45:30

  Trustees considered and approved amendments to the library circulating wireless hotspot lending policy. The changes introduce a $15 replacement fee for lost or unreturned chargers, require patrons to return units directly to staff instead of deposit boxes or mailboxes, and permit a six-month suspension of borrowing privileges for noncompliance. Cash replacement fees collected will be transferred directly to the town general fund.

  • Added a $15 fine for unreturned or lost hotspot chargers.
  • Patrons are explicitly prohibited from returning hotspots in book drops or mailboxes.
  • Staff may suspend hotspot borrowing privileges for six months for repeated violations.
  • Cash collected from fees is transferred to the town general fund, while credit payments process via CW MARS to the Friends.

  Outcome: Approved unanimously.

Votes

Next steps and dates mentioned

• October 5, 2026: Special Board of Trustees meeting to review the FY28 budget narrative and vote on the budget drafts
• First Saturday in October 2026: Concrete platform replacement and temporary relocation of book drops to the front lawn
• October 13, 2026: Town deadline for FY28 department budget submissions

The Tricentennial Committee voted to approve the appointments of Amy Van Nest and Therese Ricard to help organize Southborough's upcoming 300th anniversary celebration. Members reviewed an overall event budget projection of approximately $224,400 out of an anticipated $250,000 fundraising target, while planning outreach efforts for Heritage Day and townwide mailings for the commemorative brick fundraiser. The committee also received detailed status updates on the New Year's Day 2027 drone show contract, commemorative utility pole banners, the time capsule project, and school district involvement.

• House Tour update

  Governance & committees. Watch at 0:15

  Organizers reported on preparations for the tricentennial house tour scheduled for September 18, 2027, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The committee discussed logistics, volunteer docent recruitment, and budgeting.

  • Nine homes and two garden-themed properties are currently committed, with an ultimate goal of 10 to 12 stops.
  • Specific addresses and home details will be kept confidential and teased closer to the event date.
  • The event will require at least 20 volunteer docents to staff properties and allow volunteers time to tour.
  • A proposed budget line item of $5,000 will cover passport booklets, signage, and required public safety details.
  • Local bakeries and garden centers will be approached to provide small incentives or gifts for host homeowners.

  Outcome: Discussion only; volunteer recruitment and local business partnerships will proceed.

• Fundraising and event budget review

  Budget & taxes. Watch at 29:20

  The committee reviewed anticipated revenue and preliminary budget allocations across all planned anniversary events. Members emphasized the necessity of capping individual event expenses and accounting for mandatory police and fire details.

  • Anticipated fundraising total is approximately $250,000, with $175,000 currently committed by sponsors.
  • Preliminary event budget line items total $224,400 across all scheduled activities.
  • Major projected expenses include $75,000 for the parade, $35,000 for the First Day/drone show, $35,000 for the Music Festival, and $35,000 for the Firemen's Muster.
  • Public safety details must be budgeted directly within each event's allocation based on four-hour minimum blocks.
  • Event leads were asked to submit refined budget breakdowns and schedule estimates for the next meeting.

  Outcome: Event chairs will submit refined line-item budgets and security hour estimates for review at the October meeting.

  Why it matters: The committee manages hundreds of thousands of dollars in municipal allocations, donations, and sponsorships to stage anniversary events across the community.

• Street utility pole banners

  Governance & committees. Watch at 56:30

  Members reviewed progress on securing permits from utility companies to hang commemorative banners on street utility poles throughout Southborough's four villages. The committee approved banner visual designs and color contrast adjustments.

  • Verizon confirmed that commemorative tricentennial banners are permissible provided they contain no commercial advertising.
  • Banners will measure 18 inches by 36 inches and will be installed using bracket kits.
  • Each village will feature village-specific banners displaying a historical photo and village name.
  • The committee agreed to utilize blue banners with white lettering for maximum visibility and legibility from roadways.

  Outcome: Staff will submit pole locations for utility approval and order sample test banner kits.

• Heritage Day planning and promotions

  Governance & committees. Watch at 1:03:30

  The committee organized staffing and booth activities for the upcoming Heritage Day celebration on Monday, October 12, at the St. Mark's field. The booth will promote tricentennial activities, sell merchandise, and accept orders for commemorative bricks.

  • Heritage Day runs October 12, with booth setup beginning at 9:30 a.m. and public hours from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Activities include handing out free popcorn, selling logo t-shirts, displaying banner samples, and accepting engraved brick orders.
  • Committee members established two volunteer shifts: 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • Printed event calendars and volunteer signup sheets will be distributed to visitors.

  Outcome: Volunteer shifts were filled and materials were organized for the October 12 event.

• First Day celebration and drone light show contract

  Governance & committees. Watch at 1:25:22

  Andrew Dennington reported on finalizing the town's contract with Firefly Drone Shows for the New Year's Day 2027 opening celebration. The committee reviewed scheduling, location planning, and programming ideas.

  • The contract with Firefly Drone Shows is priced at $25,000 for a 15-minute, 200-drone aerial light show.
  • The event is scheduled for the evening of Friday, January 1, 2027, on St. Mark's field, with a rain/snow date of Saturday, January 2.
  • Firefly will work with the committee to design custom Southborough imagery, including town historic landmarks.
  • Additional First Day activities include a town history presentation by author Nick Noble, morning yoga sessions, children's recreation, and a bonfire hosted by the Firefighters Association.

  Outcome: Contract execution is anticipated within days; custom imagery planning will begin.

  Why it matters: The drone light show serves as the high-profile opening event for Southborough's year-long tricentennial celebration.

• Time capsule and other event updates

  Governance & committees. Watch at 1:38:15

  The committee heard updates on the time capsule project, the commemorative tree planting program, and the Incorporation Day ceremony. Working group leads requested additional volunteer assistance.

  • Boy Scout Troop 1 has volunteered to assist with door-to-door collection of community items for the time capsule.
  • The time capsule will emphasize archival-quality photographic and written records and is planned for above-ground storage to prevent water damage.
  • Donated legacy trees for each village will be selected within six to eight weeks for spring 2027 planting alongside commemorative granite markers.
  • The official Incorporation Day ceremony is slated for Tuesday, July 6, 2027, at Heritage Park with a $2,000 budget.

  Outcome: Committee members agreed to coordinate offline on time capsule item collection protocols.

• Marketing, outreach, and school coordination

  Governance & committees. Watch at 1:43:37

  Members discussed outreach strategies to inform the public and recruit volunteers, including direct mailings, newsletters, school communication channels, and tabling at the town transfer station. Coordination with local public schools has significantly expanded.

  • A commemorative brick fundraising postcard will be sent via Every Door Direct Mail to all 3,847 Southborough residential addresses.
  • Nonprofit postal authorization reduced the town's mailing cost from 25.9 cents to 11.49 cents per piece.
  • A committee outreach table will be set up at the Southborough Transfer Station on Saturday, September 27, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Positive outreach responses were received from Woodward, Neary, Trottier, Finn, and Algonquin schools, opening avenues for student participation in the parade and historical projects.

  Outcome: Outreach efforts will proceed across local media, the transfer station, and school networks.

Votes

Next steps and dates mentioned

• September 27, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.: Tricentennial informational table at the Southborough Transfer Station
• October 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Heritage Day committee booth and merchandise sales at St. Mark's field
• October 14, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.: Next Tricentennial Committee meeting
• November 2026: Order deadline for commemorative engraved bricks
• January 1, 2027 (rain/snow date January 2, 2027): First Day 300th Anniversary Celebration and Drone Light Show

The Board of Health heard a presentation on new Massachusetts regulations banning kratom sales and received an update on town compliance. The board voted to approve its $450 elected member budget for FY28 and reviewed two scenarios for the department operating budget, one of which would cut staff hours if a town override fails. Additionally, the board approved a 6-foot foundation setback variance for a commercial septic pump chamber at 250 Turnpike Road in a 2-1 vote and previewed its October flu clinic schedule.

• Statewide kratom ban and local retail review

  Health & human services. Watch at 0:46

  Substance use prevention coordinator Emily Tylyk presented an overview of kratom in light of recent Massachusetts Department of Public Health actions. Effective August 28, 2026, Massachusetts designated kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance under a one-year temporary order, granting municipalities authority to ensure its removal from retail shelves. Staff reported that only one retailer in Southborough was found carrying a small display of kratom products, and other retailers were unaware of the substance.

  • Kratom is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in Massachusetts under a one-year order.
  • Retailers must secure and inventory remaining stock and either return it to distributors or arrange lawful disposal.
  • Only one retailer in Southborough was found selling kratom, and staff provided education to local businesses.
  • State guidance and addiction resources are available at mass.gov/kratom.

  Outcome: Information presented with no board action needed.

• FY28 Health Department operating budget scenarios

  Budget & taxes. Watch at 13:18

  The department presented two FY28 budget options in accordance with Select Board guidance. Request A represents a level-service budget of $329,835 with 5 percent wage increases approved by the Personnel Board, while Request B models a zero-percent increase over FY27 in the event a town override is declined. To achieve a zero-percent increase under Request B, staff proposed reducing weekly hours for three staff members and eliminating in-state travel and training funds.

  • Request A totals $329,835, which includes 5 percent wage and COLA adjustments.
  • Request B achieves a 0 percent increase over FY27 by cutting weekly staff hours: 1 hour for the administrative assistant, 2 hours for the director, and 30 minutes for the sanitarian.
  • Northborough reimburses Southborough for 50 percent of the shared health agent salary, though that revenue goes into the general fund.
  • Staff noted that the department operating budget has decreased over the past five years through shared staffing arrangements.

  Outcome: Vote deferred; the board will draft an explanatory memo to the Select Board and vote on the final request at its next meeting.

  Why it matters: If the town does not pass an operating override, cuts to Health Department staff hours could lead to delays in municipal septic reviews and public health services.

• Septic pump chamber variance for 250 Turnpike Road

  Zoning & development. Watch at 26:51

  Engineer James Tetreault presented a plan for 250 Turnpike Road to replace a failing, deteriorated sewer pipe hung under a footbridge with a new pump chamber and force main. Because of site constraints and a required 25-foot wetland setback, the applicant requested a variance from the standard 10-foot building foundation setback to place the pump chamber 6 feet from the building wall. The board approved the 6-foot variance with a vapor barrier condition, while noting that the broader replacement plan and leaching area must still be reviewed with DEP and the Conservation Commission.

  • Property is located at 250 Turnpike Road, also known as the Beehive building.
  • Applicant requested a 6-foot setback from the building foundation instead of the standard 10 feet under Title 5.
  • A 40-mil impermeable vapor barrier will be installed along the building foundation to prevent any gas migration.
  • The project will require a temporary crossing and Notice of Intent approval from the Conservation Commission.
  • The board separately authorized department health agents and the sanitary inspector to sign the variance paperwork.

  Outcome: Variance approved 2-1 (Liz Zadek voting against). Signing authorization passed 3-0.

  Why it matters: The variance allows the commercial property to abandon a damaged sewer line over a wetland and construct an upgraded septic connection without encroaching closer to protected wetland boundaries.

• Fall flu clinic schedule

  Health & human services. Watch at 56:49

  Department staff provided an overview of upcoming flu vaccination clinics scheduled for October.

  • Regional drive-through clinic with the Greater Boroughs will take place Saturday, October 3, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
  • Senior clinic scheduled for October 7 at the Senior Center, with approximately 150 seniors anticipated.
  • Clinics for municipal staff, all public school staff, daycares, and the Fire Department will occur across the first two full weeks of October.

  Outcome: Information shared with no vote required.

Votes

Next steps and dates mentioned

• October 13, 2026 at 8:30 AM: Next Board of Health meeting to vote on the FY28 operating budget memo
• November 17, 2026 at 9:00 AM: Board of Health meeting

The Community Preservation Committee reviewed and approved final warrant article language for two upcoming Town Meeting requests. Members voted 5-0 to approve an article appropriating $217,318 for the Peninsula Trail footbridge and voted 4-1 to approve an article appropriating $433,546 for the Southborough Golf Club irrigation system. In both articles, the committee voted to retain protective conditions and contingency requirements that Town Counsel had suggested removing.

• Peninsula Trail footbridge warrant article

  Parks, trails & recreation. Watch at 0:23

  The committee reviewed Town Counsel redlines on the draft warrant article requesting supplemental Community Preservation Act funds for the Peninsula Trail footbridge. Members decided against Town Counsel advice to strip out specific project conditions, choosing to retain clauses governing contingency spending, a December 30, 2029 completion deadline, and a requirement to seek matching MassTrails Grant funds. Historical cost information was moved into the article summary to keep the main article text clear.

  • Requests $217,318 from the FY2027 CPA Fund Balance, consisting of $140,370 in project costs and $76,948 in contingency.
  • Total funding appropriated across Town Meeting votes for the footbridge reaches $428,550 ($324,050 in project costs and $104,500 in contingency).
  • Includes a requirement that the Trails Committee apply for MassTrails Grant matching funds to reimburse the CPA account.
  • Sets a project completion deadline of December 30, 2029, with unused funds returning to the CPA fund balance unless an extension is granted.
  • Retains committee oversight language requiring formal approval before contingency funds can be accessed.

  Outcome: Approved as amended with minor language adjustments.

  Why it matters: The article commits $217,318 in local CPA tax revenue toward completing the Peninsula Trail footbridge and goes before voters at Town Meeting.

• Southborough Golf Club irrigation system warrant article

  Parks, trails & recreation. Watch at 30:00

  The committee considered draft warrant article language for additional CPA funding for a new irrigation system at the Southborough Golf Club. The committee opted to preserve multiple conditions that Town Counsel had recommended removing, including adherence to Audubon International certification criteria, Conservation Commission signoffs, and coordination with Sudbury Valley Trustees. Members also discussed the required Select Board and Advisory Committee approvals needed to raise the Golf Course Revolving Fund spending limit to contribute $100,000 toward the project.

  • Appropriates $433,546 from the FY2027 CPA Fund Balance, comprising $370,475 in project costs and $63,071 in contingency.
  • Requires a $100,000 contribution from the Southborough Golf Course Revolving Fund, bringing the total additional funding to $533,546.
  • Brings the total overall irrigation project cost to $1,087,296 ($987,296 in total CPA appropriations and $100,000 from the revolving fund).
  • Requires written confirmation that the irrigation design meets Audubon International criteria for certification and complies with the property conservation restriction.
  • Requires raising the Golf Course Revolving Fund spending limit above its current $70,000 cap to provide the $100,000 town contribution.

  Outcome: Approved as amended by a 4-1 vote, with one member voting in opposition.

  Why it matters: The article asks Town Meeting voters to appropriate $433,546 in CPA funds, bringing total taxpayer-supported CPA funding for the golf course irrigation project to nearly $1 million.

Votes

Next steps and dates mentioned

• September 15, 2026: Select Board meeting where CPC representatives and project applicants will present the two CPA warrant articles