Wendy Bloomquist

The board discussed developing survey questions for residents and explored potential uses for Goddard funds. Key administrative efforts were identified to update the council's webpage and social media presence, ensuring compliance with municipal records policies. Discussions were held regarding the allocation of opioid funds for community programs and the creation of a subcommittee for social prescription initiatives. Outreach strategies were planned for the upcoming Memorial Day parade, and the committee reviewed the development of internal officer guides. Furthermore, the meeting addressed the introduction of a new Mass Cultural Council representative and recognized new library programming.

The board conducted public hearings for two Special Permit requests for one-family detached dwellings at 31 and 33 Walsh Avenue. Both requests were approved with conditions related to site planning and retaining wall assessments. Additionally, the board processed signed special permits for an indoor amusement facility at 615 Southbridge Street and a home occupation permit at 25 Bancroft Street.

The Conservation Commission addressed a report regarding debris in a stream at 35 Rockland Road and discussed a historical oil spill incident. Public hearings were held, including one for 15 Hardscrabble Road which was continued, and an introductory presentation for a proposed indoor golf simulator and lounge project at 615 Southbridge Street, which involves wetland buffer zones and drainage infrastructure. The board also issued an enforcement order for 330 Leicester Street due to unapproved construction within a wetland buffer zone and acknowledged a notification from National Grid regarding their vegetation management plan.

The meeting included updates from Tecton regarding project design reviews, including requirements for a commercial-sized kitchen exhaust hood and discussions on property turn radius tests, which were confirmed as successful using ladder truck dimensions. The committee reviewed and unanimously approved three proprietary specified items already in use by the Town: Automated Logic for the HVAC Instrumentation and Controls System, Plymovent for the Vehicle Exhaust Extraction System, and Verkada for the Integrated Security System, with an agreement to investigate a past security issue related to Verkada. The Leftfield team provided a schedule update, noting that Bid Documents will be released on 1/30/26, and project completion remains on track for late April. The committee also agreed to change future meeting dates to Tuesdays and established a strategic order for considering Add/Alternates based on potential budget allowances: Expanding Radiant Floor Slab first, followed by the Parking Canopy for Staff, and then the BDA Deduct Alternate (which will be requested as Unit Pricing).

The meeting included a special recognition for an Auburn High School Senior, Panos Poniros, and a moment of silence in honor of John Doherty, a retired teacher. Student representatives provided updates on Winter Carnival activities, upcoming senior night, track states, spring sports registration, the spring play, and the Mr. Auburn event. The Superintendent presented on the selection of an Auburn Middle School student as a Project 351 Ambassador. Professional development activities for staff on January 16, 2026, focusing on iReady scaffolding and vertical articulation, were reported. Unfinished business included discussions on the FY27 Draft Budget, where the administration is exploring potential cuts, and an update on the audit and verification of Auburn High School Student Activity accounts. Policy JJE was approved on its third reading. The committee approved the continuation of the School Choice program for the 2026-2027 school year and discussed the distribution timeline for the mid-year cell phone policy survey. A request for a one-year postponement of the NEASC Accreditation visit was noted, and the initial read of the policy review sub-committee recommendations occurred. Financial matters involved accepting the Bring Change 2 Mind Student Activity Club and its associated grant award, reviewing the Year-to-Date Budget Report, and approving the School Department Warrant Articles for the Annual Town Meeting scheduled for May 5, 2026.