Stephanie Bacon

The committee discussed several applications for Fiscal Year 2027 funding. Key discussions involved the Northborough Historical Society's request for window restoration, where concerns arose regarding the reliance on a single contractor bid, potential lead paint liability, and security during restoration. The committee requested a revised application. The Planning Department presented the Blake Street Park & Streetscape Improvement Project, detailing landscaping, drainage improvements, ADA-compliant walkways, and parking configuration changes. The committee noted the Select Board did not provide a letter of support. An extension of $500,000.55 in CPA funds was approved for the Northborough Affordable Housing Corporation (NAHC) to fund future affordable housing projects until June 30th, 2026, in light of significant housing need. Finally, the committee reviewed the Melican Ball Field Renovation Project, focusing on safety, drainage, and playability concerns for softball and baseball fields, considering phasing the dugout renovations and seeking volunteer support.

The Traffic Safety Committee meeting covered several key items. Discussions included the closure of the Whitney Street bridge, which is expected to last a minimum of two years due to extensive deterioration and logistical complexity involving CSX railroad. The committee voted to recommend reducing the speed limit on Crawford Street to 25 mph. Concerns regarding traffic speeds and safety on Church Street were addressed, leading to a recommendation to reduce the speed limit from 35 mph to 25 mph between 122 Church Street and Main Street. The committee also discussed ongoing issues with tractor-trailer parking along Bartlett Street near Amazon, agreeing to await outcomes from forthcoming town and Amazon official meetings before taking action.

The meeting included remarks honoring the passing of former committee member Elaine Kelly. Key discussions centered on the Police Department's FY2027 budget request, which proposed a level service budget with a net overall increase due to significant salary increases offset by reductions in operational expenses, and capital requests for vehicle and Taser replacements. The Chief also noted critical issues with the current communications system potentially requiring a multi-million dollar upgrade. Discussions on town finances addressed projected 12% increases in health insurance costs, the potential need for a $1.5 million Proposition 2.5 override, and various alternatives such as utilizing free cash or stabilization funds. The committee also discussed the subsidy for the solid waste enterprise fund and planned future discussions regarding school budgets and property deals like White Cliffs.

The Board meeting included review and voting on two motor vehicle excise abatements totaling $59.05. The Board also discussed State Tax Form 380, Notice of Uncollectible Taxes/Personal Property, with a suggestion made to expedite abatements of uncollectible personal property tax each fiscal year. The meeting included a session for Executive Session pertinent to MGL Chapter 30A, Section 21, Purpose 7.

The meeting addressed the committee reorganization, resulting in the unanimous election of Mary-Alexandra Molina as Chair and Cynthia Moore as Vice Chair; the Clerk position was deemed unnecessary. Discussions focused on continuing the committee's goals and priorities, with members agreeing to review the original committee report to establish updated goals, noting a perceived gap in addressing disability as a distinct identity in past work. Significant time was dedicated to finalizing pending Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) policies, including the ADA Grievance Procedure, Reasonable Accommodation Policy, and ADA Non-Discrimination Notice. Expert feedback was provided on these policies to ensure compliance with current ADA standards, proper language inclusion, defining key terms, and separating Title I and Title II requirements to mitigate legal risks. The meeting concluded with setting the future meeting date for January 27.