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November 3, 2023
Marlborough Hudson E DI T I ON
Wetlands Protection Bylaw aims to better protect Hudson resources By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer HUDSON – The Conservation Commission hosted an information session on Oct. 25 about the proposed Wetlands Protection Bylaw. At the meeting, Conservation Agent Pam Helinek outlined the details and objectives of Article 8 on the November Special Town Meeting. Helinek said one of the main responsibilities of the Conservation Commission is to “protect wetlands or water bodies by enforcement of the state law,” which is known as the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. This act affects permitting new projects near wetlands or correcting violations, or unpermitted alterations to areas adjacent to wetlands. She explained that wetlands are “natural sponges” that absorb flood water so that it does not impact people’s yards or basements. However, as development increases, so does stormwater runoff. “Wetlands are becoming increasingly important,” said Helinek. Helinek said the wetlands also provide habitats for wildlife, and they can create recreational opportunities for people. In order to protect the wetlands, the areas around them, which are called buffer zones, are critical and must be maintained. Any change in vegetation can alter the light and temperature of the wetlands.
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Tricks, treats and tunes By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor MARLBOROUGH – It was a day when witches and princesses mingled with pirates and robots. Hundreds of families wandered through Main Street on Thursday, Oct. 26, for the annual Trick-orTreating and Horribles Parade. Businesses along Main Street had tables with candy, ready for the taking. Several organizations joined the fun, including the Greater Marlborough Junior Women’s Club and the Recreation Department. In front of City Hall, Mayor Arthur Vigeant handed out candy with City Hall staff. Spotted in the crowd were several creepy renditions of Wednesday Addams of “Addams Family” fame. There was also Captain Jack Sparrow from “Pirates of the Caribbean,” SpongeBob Square Pants, dragons, dinosaurs and just about everything in between. The event was sponsored by the mayor’s office and Main Street Neighbors.
Residents of Liberty Hills Apartments hand out candy during the annual Trick-or-Treating and Horribles Parade on Oct. 26 along Main Street.
School Committee discusses timeline for fiscal year 2025 budget By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer HUDSON – Superintendent Brian Reagan gave a brief overview of the upcoming budget season to the Hudson School Committee at its Oct. 24 meeting. He noted the budget timeline starts a month earlier following feedback from members of
the Select Board, Executive Assistant Thomas Gregory and the Finance Committee. Gregory has to present the individual budget fairly early to the Select Board, said Reagan. Internal meetings on the budget will be held on Nov. 6 and 7, and a list will be developed on the needs of the school district. Officials will keep the agenda as it is for the Nov. 28 meeting
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