Rachel Benson

The meeting began with confirmation of attendance, noting one member was experiencing technical difficulties logging in. Announcements included the availability of 2026 dog licenses, the enforcement of the overnight parking ban from December 1st through April 1st, and the availability of nomination papers for the annual town election through February 11th, with a return date of February 13th. The board then approved the minutes from the December 2nd, December 9th, and December 16th open session meetings. The primary discussion involved a detailed presentation by Christina Papas of Open Door Marketing regarding the collaborative regional marketing initiative for Foxboro, Plainville, and Wrentham (FPW). The presentation covered the branding, logo, color palette, digital assets (website visitfw.com, social media), advertising campaigns (including placements in major publications), and the resulting positive economic impact, evidenced by increased website traffic and growth in hotel and meal tax collections since fiscal year 2018. Future plans include continuing targeted advertising in 2026, exploring airport advertising, implementing search engine marketing, and focusing on sales strategies for corporate groups. The board inquired about website analytics, particularly revenue tracking broken down by town, which the presenter offered to provide separately.

The meeting agenda focused on several significant topics, including updates on the School Plan concerning the Sweatt Complex. Due to the construction of the new Roderick School, two baseball fields at Sweatt Complex will be unavailable for approximately five years. The Commission plans to request funds in June for renovations and additions to the Rice Complex, which includes two baseball fields, three large open space fields, ballfield lighting, and new parking, aiming for completion by Fall 2027. The potential shortfall in the maintenance budget due to lost field use fees was noted. A proposed contract with the New England Veterans Football Club for an adult soccer tournament over Labor Day weekend was presented, involving the rental of the entire Rice Complex and generating significant revenue for field rental and repair. Progress on the pavilion construction, managed by Clough, Harbour and Associates (CHA), was reported. Plans for Wrentham Day, including closing a section of Rt. 14 for pedestrian access and using Sweatt Park for activities, were discussed. The Director is also exploring attracting new groups like Warrior Field Hockey and Tom Cochrane - Sonic Boom Football to the Rice Complex. Capital improvement needs were discussed, specifically the deteriorating fence line around the Rice Complex, an additional maintenance vehicle, equipment, and basketball court renovations. Budgeting for FY 2026-2027 was underway, acknowledging that standard maintenance budget upgrades are insufficient to cover rising costs. The Rugby group's bid to host the Bay State Games at Rice Complex on July 25, 2026, was noted. Finally, the need to establish a Friends of Wrentham Recreation entity to assist with fundraising and support was raised.

The meeting commenced with a roll call and an overview of the agenda, noting the remote format and roll call voting procedure. Key actions included the release of remaining 53G account funds for specific properties (95 Foxboro Rd, 315 Green St, and 24 Common St). A continued public hearing for the 55 & 43 Kendrick St CPC Land Acquisition project was postponed to February 04, 2026. The Board opened and subsequently approved with conditions and waivers the decision for the public hearing concerning 720, 760, & 800 Franklin St, involving DiPlacido Development Corp./Alixon Peabody Trust, after addressing applicant questions and peer review comments. The meeting concluded with adjournment.

The committee plans to discuss potential educational events scheduled for the remainder of 2026, including the development of an invasive plant booklet, noting that over $1500.00 remains in the budget. The discussion also covered the completion of Sweatt fund applications for educational programs, which will utilize existing funds. Furthermore, planning for the April Bat box program was scheduled, along with general new business items.

The agenda for the meeting includes action items such as the approval of the minutes from the January 21, 2026 meeting. Two public hearings are scheduled: a continued hearing for the 55 Kendrick Street development proposing a 234-unit rental community with retail space, which has been requested for continuance to February 18, 2026; and a new hearing for the "Renner Farm Estates" definitive subdivision plan at 280 Berry Street, which proposes a new cul-de-sac, two lots, and a Stormwater Permit. General discussion topics involve potential zoning amendments, specifically the South Street Rezone concerning the I-495 - Wampum Corner area from Residential to Business zoning.