CA 240308

Fire station total cost could be $43M - $49.9M

Shrewsbury girls hockey advances to Elite 8

Westborough

continues to probe for budget savings

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – With about two weeks remaining before Annual Town Meeting, the Advisory Finance Committee continues to pore through the fiscal 2025 budget, trying to soften the impact of a “substantial increase” in the town’s property taxes.

According to interim Finance Director Jonathan Steinberg, “The increase in taxes for fiscal 2025 is being driven by budgetary factors, not rising property values.”

He cited fixed costs (insurance, electricity, etc.) and the school budget, each increasing by $3.45 million.

“The total budget increase is projected to be 5.29%,” he said.

The school budget accounts for nearly 54% of the total municipal budget. The budget for FY25 is currently $66.966 million, or about 5.44% more than FY24. Most of the increase comes from contracted salary increases.

The average value of a single-family home increased by 5%, according to Steinberg. The value for fiscal 2025 is estimated to be $747,327, about $35,500 more than fiscal 2024.

“Bear in mind that all of these numbers are estimated projections and change as we get closer to the Fall Special Town Meeting, when we have more information about other receipts, final budget and property values,” said Steinberg.

A Night in the Cold (and rain) to help homeless children

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Homemade blueberry scones heated on top of a barrel fire.

A small but sweet reward for spending the night in a tent to help raise funds for homeless children.

From noon on Saturday, March 2, to the morning of Sunday, March 3, John Bogaert and several volunteers spent “A Night in the Cold” in the Colonial Plaza parking lot on East Main Street.

For Eric Hammond, it was his first time staying overnight.

“I’ve always supported it,” he said.

Proceeds went to benefit Horizons for Homeless Children.

In the first few hours of the fundraiser, as rain began to move in, members of the high school’s Westborough Helps the Homeless Club held signs and encouraged drivers to stop

Northborough expected to move to hybrid meetings soon

By Evan Walsh Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough boards and committees will soon have the technology available to hold hybrid meetings.

According to Northborough Cable Access Television (NCAT) Director Dana Volke, the Town Hall’s Conference Room B has been outfitted with technology capable of facilitating

hybrid meetings. On March 4, Volke told the Community Advocate that the technology in the Select Board’s Meeting Room is currently being installed. Prior to holding any hybrid meetings, NCAT will work with the Town Hall’s IT Department to “go over security and best practices” and train them how to use the equipment.

The technology should be ready in two weeks, Volke said in a March 4 email.

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LETTERS

TO THE

EDITOR

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: David Bagdon

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 508.930.9022

MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Hayes

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Maureen Sullivan

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ADVERTISING DEPT: Diane Sabatini | 508.366.5500

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The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Shrewsbury, MA 01546 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate. 32 South Street • Westborough, MA 01581 (508) 366-5500 • FAX (508) 366-2812

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Re: Westborough’s veterans deserve better

I am running a write-in campaign for a Non-Veteran spot on the Trustees of Soldiers Memorials in Westborough. I have tremendous respect for the men and women who serve/served our country. At various town ceremonies I stood with friends and neighbors at the monuments while our children, made up of different races and ethnicities, participated in the singing or playing of the National Anthem. As a community, we felt the honor and the solemnity of the moment and the importance of these monuments to preserve the memories of service and sacrifice. The Trustees of the Soldiers Memorials consists of Veterans and Non-Veterans and is responsible for constructing and maintaining the monuments in town. The position is for a three-year term. Mark Brady is running as an incumbent.

Westborough’s veterans deserve better than Donald “Ted” Gilbert, currently on

Ryan Maloney, owner

Light vs Full-Bodied Wines

Light-bodied and full-bodied wines differ in their respective characteristics and sensory experiences. Light-bodied wines, such as Riesling or reds like Pinot Noir, are generally characterized by their lower alcohol content, lighter color, and a more delicate flavor profile. These wines tend to be refreshing, with subtle fruit notes and a crisp finish. On the other hand, full-bodied wines, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay, boast higher alcohol content, deeper color, and a more intense flavor profile. They often exhibit rich and complex tastes, with bold fruit, tannins, and a lingering finish. The distinction is not only about weight but also influences food pairings; light-bodied wines complement lighter dishes, while full-bodied ones stand up well to heartier and more flavorful cuisines.

The wine department at JULIO’S LIQUORS carries over 3,000 labels from 16 different countries. Our Beer department contains one of the largest selections of microbrews, domestics, imports, Belgians and Trappist beers, totaling over 1,000 beers in stock! Stop by our store at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East and take a look at our great selection! PH: 508-366-1942

P.S. A full-bodied wine has a low acidity level..

the ballot. Mr. Gilbert is the proponent of an Article for Town Meeting known as the “Townie Baby Award.” Mr. Gilbert asks voters to authorize the Town of Westborough to award Westborough residents, who were themselves born in Westborough, $1,000 per child born to these Westborough natives, suggesting that this will promote continued traditions and culture important in our Town. This nativism is xenophobic and is an attack on diversity in the Westborough community.

My wife, Juliana, and I have been residents of Westborough for more than 30 years. Our three daughters matriculated through our school system. I have practiced law in Worcester and surrounding towns, including Westborough, for 34 years. In addition to recently serving as the President of the Worcester County Bar Association and being an active volunteer in the Massachusetts

If you like our Un-cork’d article every week, check out our radio show & podcast –

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WESTBOROUGH – There’s an article on the Westborough Town Meeting warrant seeking to purchase a parcel at 0 Bowman St. The 34-acre parcel is located near the Massachusetts Turnpike and the Upton town line. It is adjacent to several other town-owned properties, including Upton Road, Bowman and Bowman West conservation areas. (Photo/Tami White)

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters | from page 3

Bar Association, I have been invested in our community as a former President of Project Graduation, a volunteer for Westborough Fine Art and Education Association, a Westborough youth soccer coach, Commissioner of the Central Mass High School Ski League, a performer with Westborough Players and a member of the Board of Directors for the Pastoral Counseling Center and Westborough TV.

Your write-in vote on March 12 is appreciated.

Sincerely,

Geoffrey Spofford

Westborough

This year’s Westborough Annual Town Meeting Warrant contains twelve non-binding articles added through the Citizens Petition process. In my opinion, they are an attempt to hijack Town Meeting’s legislative process to advance a narrow ideological agenda.

Westborough has over 21,000 residents, but only a tiny fraction attend Town

Meeting, vote in local elections, run for office, or volunteer for town committees. It appears most of us are complacent or indifferent about the Town’s governance.

That time has passed. Complacency and indifference can lead to outcomes that many of us vehemently disagree with. I could be wrong, but I doubt it.

The twelve articles range from the now infamous “Townie Baby” incentive plan to banning anti-racism education in our schools. Some of these articles seem benign, until one reads the article information which goes along with them. I think the text is frightening.

If you agree with the political agenda, great, advocate and vote for them. If you don’t, the first thing you should do is show up to Town Meeting. Second, if you oppose the articles, I recommend you say nothing and use your vote to defeat them.

Why would I say that? If we spend an even a half our debating each article, we play into the agenda of the Articles’ proponents. All of the Articles

are non-binding and won’t change anything, so why waste time debating them? Quoting President Obama – “Don’t get angry – vote.”

The only positive I can see is that this nonsense will compel residents to stop being complacent and indifferent because there are real costs. Vote on March 12th for candidates whose positions you agree with and participate in Town Meeting on March.

Andrew Koenigsberg

Westborough

With the upcoming Westborough town elections rapidly approaching on March 12, 2024, I would encourage all residents to consider voting for Andy Toorock for a position on the board of the Trustees for Soldiers’ Memorials.

Andy has been a Westborough resident for over 20 years and is retired so he can virtually devote a majority of his time fulfilling the requirements of a board member. Andy is already an active member of the Westborough Veterans

Advisory Board and further participates in many of the veteran programs in Westborough. He is also very active in his Orchard Hill community here in Westborough.

Andy is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served from 1957 to 1961 as a combat engineer and attained the rank of Captain. After serving his country, Andy owned and successfully operated his own Sales Agency until his retirement.

Andy’s main motivation in seeking this board position is

his desire to continue assisting veterans in whatever way he can. He further believes the preservation and care of Westborough’s monuments is of utmost importance to recognize and honor those veterans who the town’s monuments are dedicated to.

Once again, please consider Andy Toorock when you vote. If elected, he will fulfill his commitment with 100% effort and dedication!

James B.Nims

Westborough, MA

Sheriff’s Office takes part in Random Acts of Kindness Week

SHREWSBURY – For their third year, Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis and his staff celebrated the nationally recognized Random Acts of Kindness Week, this year during the week of Feb. 12.

Sheriff’s office staff successfully executed the mission to visit every community in Worcester County during the week. Staff distributed more than 3,500 goody bags filled with donated items to individuals they met at various public places.

Sheriff’s office staff made a stop at the Shrewsbury Police Department as well as a handful of other locations throughout the town.

“Our duty as a law enforcement agency is to build bridges and strengthen the bond between our department and the communities we serve,” said Evangelidis.

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Physik Instrumente (PI), a high-tech manufacturing company, officially broke ground on the company’s new U.S. headquarters located in Shrewsbury on Feb. 28.

The 120,000-square-foot facility will be located at 440 Hartford Turnpike and will have roughly three times the aggregated space as the company’s preexisting locations.

The groundbreaking ceremony involved dozens of individuals, including PI executives, local business leaders, community officials, politicians, and representatives from GFI Partners, which owns the parcel of land.

“It’s an exciting day for us. We’re expanding dramatically our presence in the United States… It’s a massive building. We need people to expand and cover all of that. I can tell you your subsidiary is a substantial part of our growth rate. We see a lot of business potential here. We can’t wait to do business

here and develop Shrewsbury together,” PI CEO Markus Spanner said before the groundbreaking.

PI manufactures equipment that helps companies create some of the world’s most hightech innovations. The company is involved in semiconductors, automation, telecommunications, astronomy and more. Notably, PI has had its products included in the Mars exploration rovers and the James Webb Space Telescope. PI currently has roughly 1,700 employees worldwide and continues to expand.

Local officials expressed

gratitude that PI chose Central Massachusetts, and more specifically, Shrewsbury.

“PI, we want to welcome you to the Shrewsbury business community. We can tell you you’ve made some good decisions… It’s a world-class region to find good employees. You have a very supportive community here… We’re excited because you’re bringing new jobs to the region,” Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce Karen Chapman said.

Select Board Chair Beth Casavant called it a “really proud moment” for the community.

“They recognize the benefits of this for our local economy, and the investments that PI is making in this building and its contents will enrich our local tax base. The work that happens within these walls will provide well-paying jobs for local residents, and the ongoing relationship between PI and the Town of Shrewsbury will be of benefit to all,” said Casavant.

PI — which also has locations in Auburn and Hopkinton — had plans to move to Shrewsbury’s Centech Park North, as the Community Advocate first reported in September, but ultimately opted to move further

down Route 20 to the 440 Hartford Turnpike location. The land was once permitted for a 40B project, but the Planning Board approved plans for a warehouse on the property in July.

PI could move into the facility in 2025.

All groups said that they hoped the Shrewsbury-PI partnership would extend well into the future.

“Over the next year, this site will evolve into a hub of activity, a center of excellence, and a symbol of what can be achieved when new partnerships with industry pioneers are formed,” said PI Managing Director Walter Silvesky.

He added, “I’m sure we would’ve all preferred a sunny day to share this ceremony with, but… when you tie a knot in the rain, it becomes impossible to untie. With this new site of our headquarters being launched on this rainy morning, so too, in a way, does PI become tied to this community.”

“Or, as our pioneer partners would say, ‘quantum entangled,’ ” he joked.

Community leaders and Physik Instrumente executives break ground on the company’s new American headquarters in Shrewsbury. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

by MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Long Term Care

It’s

myth that older adults require less sleep than younger people. A good night’s sleep is essential for everyone. However, sleeping di culties contribute to many health concerns for the elderly, reducing their quality of life. It is common for older adults to experience changes in the quality and duration of their sleep. Conditions commonly a ecting rest include depression, anxiety, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. For older adults diagnosed with more than one health concern, the problem of getting enough rest is further complicated. It’s also important to understand that certain medications can play a role in sleep issues. Changes in hormone levels, such as melatonin, may also result in disrupted sleep because the body secretes less as people age.

In addition to exercise, getting adequate rest and a good night’s sleep are important for living a long and healthy life. Not getting enough sleep, or getting too much sleep, can signi cantly increase the risk of death, including from heart disease or stroke. To learn more about our facility, please call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011. We are located at 559 Plantation Street.

P.S. One third of our lives is spent sleeping.

Mission of Briarwood Retirement Community

The Briarwood Community is a nonpro t Continuing Care Retirement Community, o ering Independent Living in cottages and apartments, Traditional and Memory Care Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Services. For 40 years, Briarwood has o ered residents a warm and caring community – neighbors respect your privacy but reach out in friendship. You’ll recognize it from residents and team members—the Briarwood spirit!

Mission

Briarwood’s mission is to enhance the well-being, independence and personal ful llment of its residents and other seniors by providing high quality, coordinated housing, health, wellness and supportive services consistent with the caring spirit of the founding churches.

Core Values

• We value the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of seniors.

Discover

• We value services that support the dignity, independence and selfdetermination of seniors.

• We value a living and working environment based on mutual respect, trust and support.

• We value nancial and operational integrity.

• We value innovation and excellence in the provision of services.

Vision

Briarwood’s vision is to be an innovative leader in the provision of services to support successful aging.

HOMES MORE&

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508-733-6005

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10 Good Reasons to Buy Now

By Gary Kelley

Some are convinced it is not a good time to buy real estate. Here are 10 good reasons to buy now even with higher

1. Fewer Buyers driving the price up on the home you want to buy. When interest rates are higher, some buyers drop out…reducing demand.

2. The sooner you get into the game, the more time is on your side to increase the value of your investment. You must play to make it work. Yes, the real estate market goes up and down…you have to take the long view.

3. Would you like to pay your Landlord’s Mort-

interest rates:

gage Down or Your Own?

When you rent, you are paying your landlord’s Mortgage Down, and maintenance, expenses, etc. The truth is why not keep that money in your pocket?

4. Who wants to control their next rent increase?

When you own, your rent doesn’t change (unless you have an adjustablerate mortgage, or your taxes go up.) Again, keep the money in your pocket.

5. Want to make a She Shed

or Man Cave? Or a play area for your kids. Or an area for pets. When you own you can make the changes you want within zoning parameters. And when you own you can paint interior rooms any color. (You can also paint the exterior within the limits of zoning and any community rules.)

6. Historically Real Estate as an investment has only gone up over time, so you can buy now and ride it up or pay more tomorrow. According to data sourced from Zillow, the average home value in Massachusetts stands at $585,959, indicating a notable 7.3% increase over the past year.

7. I hear rates are higher, but what is it really going to cost me in $, find out!

Some people will spend hours analyzing interest rates, unaware of many special programs. It pays to work with a local loan officer.

8. Are there ways to get my payment lower? YES! (ARMs, temporary and permanent buydowns, Mass Housing, FHA, USDA, VA)

9. Are there any deals left out there? Yes, and they can be harder to find. (There are always homes needing a DIY facelift, a serious fixer upper needing a renovation loan, a house further west of MetroWest, a small house with a potential addition down the road). That said, we live in an area with higher values and not what you often see on HGTV.

10. Date the rate, marry the home. When you buy a home with a higher interest rate, you can often refinance into a lower interest rate in the future.

Thanks to Brad Avergon of Fairway Mortgage spurring this discussion.

Need tools for home search: MoveWithGary.com

Gary is heard on WCRN AM 830 and/or seen on WMCTTV discussing “All Things Real Estate.”

If you need advice on selling your home or buying a new one, give us a call 508-7336005.

By Normand Corbin, History Writer

Gua sha is a massage technique that uses a handheld tool that scrapes and massages the muscles with the intention of releasing stagnation and improving blood ow. It is a therapeutic tool for neck pain, tension/ migraine headaches, upper back tension and much more! A visible redness and petechiae will appear on the skin as a sign that the tissue is detoxing and improving the circulation. We refer to this as ‘sha’. It is not painful and o en gives signi cant relief from pain and tension.

Research has shown that gua sha dramatically increases the circulation of blood through so tissues under the skin. A Harvard study found that gua sha encourages cells to produce heme oxygenase -1 (HO-1), which is an antioxidant that ghts to reduce in ammation in the body.

e bene ts of gua sha occur when the blood is brought to the surface of the skin.

e darker the color of the blood rising to the

How Might Gua Sha Benefit You and Your Health?

surface, the more stagnation there is in that area. is tells us that there isn’t proper blood ow through the area. e number of gua sha sessions depends on the reaction that your body shows during the rst treatment and once you try an initial session it will become clear if this is something that you may bene t from! Call Open Circle Acupuncture if you are interested and we will be happy to book an appointment for you or answer any more questions that you may have.

•

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Railways and trolley companies influenced the development of Westborough’s roadways

WESTBOROUGH THEN NOW

By Kate Tobiasson History Columnist

WESTBOROUGH - Even before it was officially the 100th town in Massachusetts, Westborough had many vital crossroads, making it an ideal place for regional commerce and trade. Indigenous people had long ago carved trails that crisscrossed across town. The Narragansett Trail — where South Street now runs — led to Providence, and the trail over Milk Street continued northwest to Canada. Throughout the colonial era, trade increased and more roads were developed. The Old Connecticut Path was a major path for trade, and it wound its way through Westborough. Still, it wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution that Westborough saw a dramatic change in the landscape and development of the town.

With industrialization, local investors began to organize independent railway companies and railways, connecting the cities of Worcester, Boston, and Providence to the rest of the country. The Boston and Worcester Railroad puffed its way through downtown Westborough in 1834, bringing with it the opportunity for huge industrial growth in town. The train stopped at the center of town, making it a desirable and commutable location for industry owners and their employees.

In 1897 Westborough welcomed the first electric streetcar to town. By then the town was a major supplier of straw hats, sleighs, bicycles and the Locomobile, a small steampowered automobile. Electric streetcars hauled freight for local business owners, and offered transportation for low and middle-class workers to the factories operating at the center of town.

The trolleys worked to transport children to school, shoppers to village stores, and beachgoers from throughout the region to Lake Chauncy. Thanks to the central location of the train station and the streetcar stops at the center of town, a great number of shops opened, supplying both locals

and travelers with everything from lace curtains, bicycle seats, candies, and cigarettes to a pharmacy to photography studios. To help house the growing workforce and travelers, many hotels, inns and rooming houses dotted the roads surrounding the center of town. Westborough was a bustling, thriving town with a steady stream of travelers on the local streetcars and from the railway.

Public safety on both the electric streetcars and the trains was a large concern. There were frequent accidents, many of

which resulted in traumatic injuries and even death. There was great controversy in town about how to best manage the tracks, and maintain the public’s safety. Further complications like snow in the winter often made travel impossible, and a huge fire in February of 1915 destroyed the streetcar trolley barn, limiting availability and access to streetcars.

The effects of World War I meant a change in industry, and many of the factories in Westborough closed their doors. Personal automobiles became largely preferred, and travel on the tracks decreased. The trolley lines were consolidated and later dismantled, only the shadows of their rapid development and short-term popularity remaining.

During a relatively brief period, the burgeoning popularity of streetcars and railway transport had a tremendous effect on Westborough’s economic development, as well as the formation of local roadways and traffic patterns. Today, the rotary in the middle of Westborough stands where the trolley circle once orbited, exchanging passengers. Storefronts still stand around the circle, many of the buildings dating back to the bygone era of streetcars and trains. The Boston and Worcester Railroad bridge still crosses East Main Street, much to the chagrin of 18-wheelers and local residents. The streetcars may have disappeared, and the train station has been reimagined, but the impact of these revolutionary means of transport are still there, if you only know where to look.

For hundreds of years, Westborough has had many vital crossroads, making it an ideal place for regional commerce and trade.

The Boston and Worcester Railroad came to downtown Westborough in 1834, its station stop bringing with it the opportunity for huge industrial growth in town. (Photos/courtesy of Phil Kittridge)

station project total cost

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough’s new fire station is estimated to cost between $43 million and $49.9 million, according to a presentation to the Fire Station Building Committee on Feb. 28.

Ahead of presenting the cost estimate, Colliers Project Leaders’ Tim Alix cautioned that committee members would see a “big difference” when comparing estimates to the 2019 plan. A 2019 Community Advocate article stated that the total costs were expected to run at $18.8 million based on the concept design.

“A majority of that is based on the escalation that we’ve hit since the 2019 study was done. We had historic increases in inflation, the pandemic and supply chain, worker shortages, material shortages,” Alix said. “It really caused a huge problem in the construction industry, not to mention the lead time

on some materials.”

According to Alix’s presentation, total construction is estimated to cost between $33 million to $37.6 million, including a construction estimate of $30.9 million and estimations between $2.1 million and $6.7 million for alternates.

The construction estimate in 2019 was $15.4 million. However, with cost increases and making it comparable to the proposed square footage, that construction cost would be just under $30 million, Alix said.

“It’s pretty close,” he said.

The remaining costs in the estimate include furnishing, fixtures and equipment at $730,000 to $1.35 million; fees and expenses at $5.1 million to $6.25 million; and contingency costs at $4.1 million to $4.7 million.

“I think it’s really important that we all remember that this is the schematic design level estimate. So, it’s based on limited drawings that the cost estimator had

from the architectural team, civil, landscape, MEP, FP and structural engineer,” said HKT Architects’ Amy Dunlap. Dunlap said that at the schematic level “not everything is figured out,” and the drawings and engineering aren’t fully developed or completely done. Where the infor-

mation wasn’t available, HKT directed the cost estimator to make assumptions based on its knowledge, experience and similar projects. The statement of probable cause includes design and pricing contingencies of up to 10%, according to the presentation.

HKT Architects presented

14 alternate options and one allowance order of magnitude alternate that would place an antenna on a nearby water tank. The alternates covered topics like the retaining wall, HVAC, energy code upgrades, green options and options for materials.

Westborough Democrats plan caucus

WESTBOROUGH – Registered Democrats in Westborough will hold a caucus at 5 p.m. on March 10 at Tatnuck Booksellers to elect delegates and alternates to the 2024 Massachusetts Democratic State Convention.

This year’s state convention will be held June 1 at the DCU Center, Worcester.

The caucus is open to all registered and preregistered Democrats. Preregistered Democrats who are 16 years old as of Feb. 15, will be allowed

to participate and run as a delegate or alternate. Westborough can elect 11 delegates and four alternates.

“For people interested in being involved in politics, this is a great opportunity to learn more and meet like-minded people,” said Jonathan Rappaport. “There are some wonderful candidates who will be running for a variety of local, state and national offices this year. At this meeting we will also discuss ways to get involved in campaigns, both locally and

nationally.”

Youth, people with disabilities, in underrepresented ethnic and racial groups, and LGBTQ individuals who are not elected as a delegate or alternate may apply to be an add-on delegate at the caucus or online.

Those interested in getting involved with the Westborough Democratic Town Committee should contact cochairs Jonathan Rappaport at 508-335-1670 or Sue McAlice at 508-439-1768.

Westborough candidates gather for forum

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Candidates vying for office stated their cases for election during the Westborough Democratic Town Committee’s candidate forum at the Willows at Westborough on March 3.

School Committee

Tim Askew and Boyd Conklin are vying for the one available seat on the School Committee.

The candidates were asked how they would advise their own child regarding the topic of acceptance if they hypothetically came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

Askew, who doesn’t have children, said he imagined it would be “incredibly difficult,” but he added that he would work through it with his child and support them.

“I think it is no secret here … there are people in the LGBTQ+ community. To pretend that there aren’t and that they don’t need help and especially additional support, as it can be a tough journey with them, I think that is really doing everyone a disservice,” he said.

Conklin said, “Whatever they want to be is what they want to be, and I support them in it.”

He went on to allege that Westborough schools were giving students links on lesson plans to “third party” LGBTQ+ sites so students could talk with adults from the organization. Conklin also stated that he and others met with school leaders, including Superintendent Amber Bock, who allegedly said they would remove the links off the curriculum.

Bock told the Community Advocate that the core curriculum in health was not changed or altered. She said there was one lesson in one class in which the teacher modified sharing full website links, and the department decided to pull in selected resources from the sites as opposed to open sourcing the links.

Library trustee

Jeanine Mindrum, Mary Christensen, Conklin, Michael Karp and Gregory Moberg are seeking election to

the three seats on the Trustees of the Public Library.

The candidates were asked what the most important issue was facing the library.

Several candidates identified repairing the library as the most important issue.

Christensen said the library is “beyond waiting.”

She said the library was so far down the list “because

we have seen it for so long, it has become like an old friend that we don’t even notice anymore.”

“We can’t take the time. It will disappear, … and no one will really want to move to a town that has such a poor example, not because of wanting, but because of going too slow,” she said.

According to Mindrum, the

library is not just a building with books, but a community resource. She said the Library Building Committee has been working hard to determine what systems needed to be replaced now. Mindrum said she would support their work by bringing information on the project to the community.

“If we take care of our

library, it will be able to continue to take care of us in the future,” she said.

Moberg said that increasing the town’s awareness of the “gem” they had in the library together with outreach from the library staff would build communication and value.

“When it comes time for its Candidates | 19

Night in the Cold | from page 1

by and donate.

“I think this will bring a lot of people in,” said Maggie Hanlon, a WHS senior and member of the club.

“It’s spreading awareness,” said club member Cayla Ehrlich, another WHS senior. “It’s a kind of interactive education.”

Balloons and some big signs also marked the spot where the fundraiser was taking place. Bogaert said between that and offering Venmo for online donations, “I’m trying to make it as easy as possible.”

A volunteer went to Cold Harbor Brewery that evening for the Petty Larceny concert. The band not only allowed the volunteer to solicit donations (via a laminated fact sheet with QR codes), the lead singer donated $50.

Although final numbers have yet to be posted, the weekend has raised at least $8,000.

Bogaert wanted to thank Todd Alexander for allowing the use of his property.

Where three volunteers spent A Night in the Cold on March 2 and 3 — a tent at the Colonial Plaza parking lot

Where three volunteers spent A Night in the Cold on March 2 and 3 – a tent at the Colonial Plaza parking lot on East Main Street.

(Photos/Maureen Sullivan)

HOME-SWEET-LOAN

Additions and subtractions

Budget | from page 1 roof at Hastings Elementary School.

Some cuts have been made within the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Requests for a van for the Senior Center ($94,000) and repairs for the dam at Sandra Pond ($355,000) have been removed. A warrant request for Town Hall security upgrades has been reduced to $107,313, thanks to a state grant.

The biggest trim comes from the Westborough Public Library’s repair project. Slated for $2.85 million in the CIP, the request (a borrow) is now $1.604 million.

Within the operating budget, the Board of Health has trimmed $5,000 from its budget; it cut back hours for the public health nurse from 16 hours to 12.

There have been some additions. Westborough Public Schools is requesting a borrow of $4.1 million to replace the

The town is also requesting $125,000 for legal services through the end of the fiscal year; $22,500 for interim services within the Finance Department; $32,500 for updates to the Open Space and Recreation Plan; $10,000 to $12,000 toward a decarbonization study for municipal buildings; and $100,000 toward a feasibility study for the Golf Club building.

Some budget numbers have yet to be announced or finalized, including the fire department union contract, and a contract with Harvey’s/Waste Management for trash and recycling services.

The biggest factors

When the fiscal 2025 budget was first announced in November, the proposed increase in property taxes for the average single-family homeowner was $955.

“The shift in the percentage of value of the residential class continues to increase slowly as residential property values continue to rise,” read the Budget Message. “This budget estimates a continued increase in the average singlefamily value as the broader market continues to reflect low supply and high demand in Westborough.”

When the budget summit took place on Jan. 25, the estimated increase had grown to $979.

Part of that increase stemmed from the town’s purchase of 1500 Union St. to convert into a community center; the tax impact is estimated at $53.13.

Soon after the budget summit, the town received word about state aid — there would be an increase, but not as much as anticipated. The state aid could change, as the House and Senate begin FY25 budget deliberations soon.

The projected shortfall –$151,000 — has been factored into the budget; the estimated tax increase is now $994. This includes the use of $450,000 from free cash to lower the tax rate; otherwise, the estimated increase would be more than $1,000.

on East Main Street.

Northborough expected to move to hybrid meetings soon

Hybrid meetings | from page 1 “Hybrid meetings will allow everyone to view and participate in the manner they prefer. For the public, viewing and participating in hybrid meetings will be no different than with remote meetings, unless they choose to come to the meeting in person,” Select Board Chair Mitch Cohen told the Community Advocate in an email statement.

Like many other towns, Northborough moved to virtual meetings due to COVID-19, but unlike other municipalities, it never fully moved back. While many of Northborough’s boards and committees hold in-person meetings – including the School Committee, Fire Station Building Committee, Appropriations Committee and Community Preservation Committee – some of the town’s elected groups, namely the Select Board and Planning Board, still meet almost exclusively online.

Currently, residents do not have the option to attend Select Board and Planning Board meetings in person, although they can still comment and participate by using the Zoom link, which is provided in the meeting agenda. The meetings are also live-streamed.

In the Community Advocate coverage region, Northborough has the only Select Board still consistently holding virtual meetings.

Northborough cites COVID-19 as the basis for virtualonly meetings. At the beginning of every meeting and at the top of every agenda, the town references Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023, which extends certain COVID-19 measures into the future. The law, which Governor Maura Healey signed on March 29, 2023, allows public bodies to meet remotely. The law extends the provisions until March 31, 2025, but some believe the state will permanently allow virtual-only meetings.

The virtual-only meetings have become a hot topic in Northborough. While proponents point to the convenience of attending government meetings from home, critics say that online meetings sacrifice decorum and transparency. Some town residents have called the informality of Select Board meetings “unacceptable and unprofessional.”

“My feelings are you can only hide behind the computer screen for so long… Let your voice and everyone’s voice be heard in person and not through a computer. Our future and our children’s future shouldn’t be decided virtually,” Northborough resident David Cooley posted in the “All Things Northborough MA Facebook group” last March.

The move to hybrid meetings would aim to balance convenience and formality.

The Select Board discussed moving away from virtualonly meetings during its Oct. 16 meeting. At the meeting, Volke asked for $33,865 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to set up infrastructure for the board to conduct hybrid meetings. According to the presentation, NCAT would install a TouchView Smartboard with an integrated camera, speakers,

other cameras, monitors, and other equipment. The funds also included money for the Conference Room B improvements.

“With all the stuff, the audio, the video — everything is going to be very crisp, clean, professional. It’s going to be very, very nice,” Volke said at the meeting.

At the meeting, the Select Board members seemed enthu-

siastic, unanimously approving the funds.

“Everybody’s really excited to have the ability to do hybrid meetings,” said Select Board Member Laura Ziton. “That is awesome.”

When Ziton asked when the devices could be installed, Volke predicted three months, putting the expected installation date Hybrid meetings | 21

Assisted Living Suites Available

At

Two-bedroom

Westborough schools add religious holidays to calendar

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The calendar for the 2024-25 school year will have some additional holidays.

During the meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 31, the School Committee approved recommendations made by Superintendent Amber Bock, as well as the calendar itself.

Bock recommended that Diwali be made a full day off, along with Eid Al Fitr; Good Friday becomes a half-day, as would Lunar New Year.

The challenge, according to Bock, was in adding these religious holidays without expanding the school year. In the case of Eid Al Fitr, a festival that marks the end of Ramadan, the school year would be extended by one day every two years.

The votes for the recom -

mendations and the calendar were both 4-1, with Jakub Moskal voting no on both.

Moskal said that although he celebrates the diversity reflected in the calendar, “The calendar is already fragmented.” He also stated that teachers are against the proposed calendar changes.

He added that parents would have to find child care for those additional days, and there would be “less wiggle room” in case of a bad winter or other emergencies.

As an alternative, Moskal proposed that WPS schedule no classes on state and federal holidays only, and have religious holidays go into Category 2 of the WPS homework and holiday policy.

Under Category 2, classes would still be held, but students and staff would be allowed to observe the holiday at home.

State and federal holidays fall under Category 1, in which schools would be closed. Under Category 3, classes would be in session, and students would need to contact their teachers about homework assignments.

The rest of the committee decided to support Bock’s recommendations.

A look at the calendar

Under the recently approved calendar, the 2024-25 school year will begin with new teacher orientation on Aug. 22 and 23.

The first day for students will be Aug. 28.

Schools will be closed on Sept. 2 for Labor Day; Oct. 3 for Rosh Hashanah; Oct. 14 for Indigenous Peoples Day; Nov. 1 for Diwali; Nov. 11 for Veterans Day; Nov. 28 and 29 for Thanksgiving; Dec. 24-Jan. 1 for winter break; Jan. 20 for

Martin Luther King Jr. Day; Feb. 17-21 for February break; March 31 for Eid Al Fitr; April 21-25 for April break; May 26 for Memorial Day; and June 19

for Juneteenth.

Early release days will include Jan. 29 for Lunar New Year and April 18 for Good Friday.

Assabet seeks to establish capital stabilization fund

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – The Assabet Valley Regional Vocational District is seeking another, more reliable way to pay for its capital projects.

Longtime sources such as grants and out-of-district tuitions have become less consistent, according to Superintendent Ernest Houle.

That is especially the case with out-of-district tuitions. Houle said the school has fewer spaces available for students outside of Assabet’s district.

Houle recalled that when he first became superintendent in 2015, there would be about 165 in-district spaces, with the remainder offered to out-of-district students.

That is no longer the case, he said.

A chart of Assabet’s enrollment changes shows that the ninth-grade enrollment is all in-district – not one student from communities that used to send students to Assabet, like Shrewsbury and Clinton.

For the current grade 10, the number of out-of-district students is 18; for grade 11, it’s 48; for grade 12, it’s 66.

For fiscal 2025, Marlborough would have 55 more students enrolled in Assabet than in fiscal 2024, while Westborough will have nine more; Northborough and Southborough will have three more students each.

In the past, out-of-district tuitions have helped pay for projects like the turf field. Now that out-of-district tuition is declining, Assabet is pushing to establish a capital stabilization fund.

Should Assabet receive approval from five out of its seven member communities, the district would be allowed, starting in fiscal 2026, to set aside $250,000 from member assessments for capital improvement projects.

On Monday, Feb. 12, Houle went before Westborough’s Advisory Finance Committee to discuss the proposed fund, which is an article in that town’s Town Meeting warrant.

Paul L. George, Westborough’s representative on the School Committee, said that most of the school’s capital projects cannot be done in “three budget cycles,” let alone one.

To him, the stabilization fund “makes a lot of sense.”

Houle said that the district is setting up a schedule for capital projects, including an upgrade of its phone system, the parking lots and upgrades to the auditorium.

The Advisory Finance Committee voted 8-0 to recommend that Town Meeting approve the stabilization fund.

A look at Assabet’s budget for 2025

The district’s projected budget for the 2025 fiscal year is $27,425,514, about $2.2 million above the budget for fiscal 2024. About $16.5 million is slated for instruction, including teacher salaries; about $2.5 million is for operation and maintenance; and $1.7 million would be for shortand long-term debt.

The 2025 fiscal year budget is now available on the budget page of Assabet Valley’s website, https://www.assabet.org/ index.html

Millbury Street Elementary School students visited by local author

By Evan Walsh Reporter

GRAFTON – Throughout the week of Feb. 25, Millbury Street Elementary School hosted Grafton-based author-illustrator Maddie Frost.

Frost met with every class in the school’s library, introducing the students to illustration. The eager students drew fish, sloths and even capybaras.

“It’s been a great experience. I moved to Grafton a few years ago with my husband, and I’ve been meaning to come here and share the local love. It’s been great. I’m happy to be able to share what I do with the kids in the school. Hopefully the kids feel inspired,” she told the Community Advocate.

At Millbury Street Elementary School, Frost gave live illustration demonstrations. Students followed along on paper, drawing a variety of different animals and figures.

“I used to be an elementary art teacher for a long time, so I just know when students are able to draw, it’s just the best time ever… I think it’s so fun to be able to draw together,” she

(Photo/Evan Walsh)

said. An award-winning author, Frost has published over nine illustrated books, including “Not Yet, Yeti” and “Capybara Is Friends with Everyone.” Frost

also has a series of popular “Wombats!” graphic novels, which follow two wombat “besties” through a series of adventures.

The South Grafton PTO purchased 357 copies of “Wombats! Go to Wizard’s Wharf” for fourth- through sixth-grade students and 233 copies of “Capybara Is Friends with Everyone” for second- and third-grade students. Each of the students brought home a signed copy.

“It’s really meaningful. I think that’s the end goal – getting my work in the hands of as many kids as possible, even more so kids in my own town. It’s been a great opportunity and the town has been so welcoming and wonderful,” Frost said.

Camp & Activity Guide

Maddie Frost shares her illustrations with Millbury Street Elementary School students.

POLICE FIRE&

Northborough firefighters rescue woman, dog stuck in ice

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Fire Department rescued a woman and her dog who were trapped in the mud and ice.

On Feb. 27, the department was dispatched to a report that there was a woman stuck in the mud and ice up to her chest at Carney Park, according to Chief David Parenti.

The department responded to the park at 10:49 a.m. along with members of the Northborough Police Department. The woman was found about 1,000 feet down the trail.

According to Parenti, the department was told that the dog, who was an Australian Shepherd, took off and snapped its lead.

The department got the woman out of the water by 11:02 a.m., and her dog, who

was in a different location, at 11:05 a.m. Parenti said the woman was evaluated because she was cold and wet, but she was not transported to the hospital.

The rescue comes the day after members of the Northborough Fire Department attended an ice rescue training in Shrewsbury that was held by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services.

Northborough first responders rescued a woman and her dog that were trapped in the ice at Carney Park.

(Photo/Courtesy Northborough Fire Department)

Marlborough police seek man who stole cash register

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Police are looking for a man who made off with a cash register from the Walgreens on Granger Boulevard on Sunday, March 3.

The man did not know the register was empty.

According to Parenti, six firefighters participated in the training, and four of the six members responded to the call.

“Yesterday, we shared an article about several of our members attending an ice rescue technician class. As they say, timing is everything. … Awesome job by all members,” the department wrote on Facebook.

Anyone with information regarding the theft, or the man who stole the register, is asked to contact Marlborough police at 508-485-1212.

The police log was cut due to lack of space. Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.

Marlborough Police are seeking this man in connection with the theft of a cash register at Walgreens. (Photo/Courtesy Marlborough Police Department)

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

The Community Advocate will post obituaries online (and in print, as space allows). Please send information (and a picture if desired) to tracy@communityadvocate.com. Here is a complete list of individual obituaries posted on the Community Advocate website (www. communityadvocate.com).

DEATHS

Ahearn, William of Shrewsbury

Cardeiro, Jacqueline of Northborough

Dauphinais, Eugene of Shrewsbury

Ferrara, George of Hudson

Gremo, Thomas of Grafton

Korczynski, Eugene of Northborough

Lambert, Helen of Marlborough

Le, Khanh of Shrewsbury

MacIver, Richard formerly of Marlborough

Milsop, Joan of Shrewsbury

Petrosky, Jean formerly of Marlborough

Risotti, Jim formerly of Marlborough

Shea, Edith of Shrewsbury

Sjogren, Robert of Grafton Sullivan, Patrick of Southborough

Venincasa, Alfred formerly Grafton

William H. Ahearn Jr., 72

SHREWSBURY - William H.

“Buster” Ahearn, 72, a longtime resident of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2024, after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Buster was born on November 28, 1951, in Worcester, Massachusetts, the son of William and Jeanette (Connor) Ahearn.

Buster leaves behind his beloved wife of over 44 years, Patricia A. (Williams) Ahearn, two children, William Ahearn and his wife Alison of Sutton, and Jennifer Gedman and her husband Kris of Franklin. Buster leaves a legacy of three grandsons: Brendan, Brady, and Wesley; and he is joyfully reunited in heaven with his granddaughter, Violet.

Buster came from a large family and has the fondest memories of growing up on the farm with his brothers and sisters. Buster leaves behind his mother, Jeanette (Connor) Ahearn and his brothers, Gary Ahearn and his wife Marcia of

Oxford, Richard Ahearn and his wife Mary of West Brookfield, Craig Ahearn and his wife Michelle of Zephyr Hills, Florida, and his sister, Kim Curtis and her husband Mike of Oxford. He is predeceased by his father, William Ahearn and his sister, Denise Nordstrom. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

Jean M. Petrosky, 83 BOYNTON BEACH, FL. - Jean M. (McIsaac) Petrosky, 83, of Boynton Beach, Florida and formerly of Marlboro, Mass passed on peacefully from this life on February 21, 2024 with her daughters by her side. Her family and her dogs were her joy and her world. She was a wonderful and loving person and will be dearly missed.

Jean leaves her three daughters, Dorothy Tozeski and husband Stephen, Linda Flaherty and husband John, Susan Corliss and husband John; six grandchildren, Thomas Constantino, Cassandra Traniello and husband Edward, Alexander Tozeski, Matthew Tozeski, Jillian Flaherty, Jacqueline Flaherty; one great grand child Malia Traniello; and her sister Diane Vera, her good friend Linda Lavoie and her beloved dog Brady (and yes Jean was a Patriots fan).

She was our mom and will be remembered forever for her love, devotion, decorations, meatballs and banana bread.

Patrick J. Sullivan, 69 SOUTHBOROUGH/NORTHBOROUGH - Patrick Joseph Sullivan, affectionately known as Pat to his friends and family, passed away on February 23, 2024, at the age of 69 in Boston, MA. Born on February 17, 1955, in Buffalo, NY, Pat was a man of great humor, love, and selflessness, whose presence brightened the lives of those around him.

Pat is survived by his devoted wife, Leslie; his son, Riley, and Riley’s partner, Kylie; his cherished grandchildren, Kennedy and Charlie; his brother Mark Sullivan (brother) and Donna Sullivan (sister-in-law) numerous nieces and nephews; predeceased by Brothers James and Kevin Sullivan, Susi Sullivan (sister-in-law) and Brigid Salamon (Niece). and a community of friends and family whose lives he touched with his generous spirit.

Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.

Jacqueline Cardeiro, 69 NORTHBOROUGH - Jacqueline “Jackie” Cardeiro passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, February 22 after a brief illness at the age of 69. She was welcomed by her husband Ralph who passed away in 2020.

Jackie was the loving mother of daughter Alison Fisher and her husband Brett of Uxbridge. She was predeceased by her mother Barbara Larson in 2017 and her father John Larson in 2003.

Rice Funeral Home of Worcester is assisting the family with arrangements.

Louie Wong, 97

QUINCY - We are sad to announce the passing of Louie “Louise” Wong, formerly of Clermont, FL, and Southborough, MA. She died at age 97 on February 17, 2024, in Quincy, MA. Louie was born in China and was married to the late James Wong for over 60 years. She emigrated to the US in 1950, reuniting with her husband, James.

Louie is survived by her three children, son Ken, daughter Noel, and son Gene; as well as one sister, Jane (aged 104), one brother, Harry (aged 90); five grandchildren: Susan, Jamie, Adam, Melissa, and Bryant; three great-grandchildren: Emma, Claire, and James Allen; her nieces, Janet and Wanda, and numerous nephews.

Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.

The DuPont Funeral Home in Bristol, CT assisted with arrangements.

Jim Risotti, 72

NORTH READING - Jim Risotti of North Reading, MA formerly of Marlborough. MA passed away February 23, 2024 after a vigorous life but also a long battle with heart disease. Jimmy was born in Marlborough, MA the son of the late Albert N. and Anna A. (Cicolini) Risotti.

Jim leaves behind his beloved wife of 51 years, Deb Risotti, and his son of whom he was most proud, Dan Risotti and his wife Stef. He was a devoted and loving father to his daughter, Sarah, who passed away in 2006. Jim loved and cherished his time with his beautiful grandchildren, Gino and Domenic. Jimmy was a devoted father, son, brother, uncle. He also leaves behind his siblings Kathy Tate and her husband Bill, Albert Risotti his wife Margie, Steve Risotti his wife Shawna, Maryellen Butt her husband Greg, and Paul Risotti his wife Amy and cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Robert M. Sjogren, 87

GRAFTON - Robert M. “Bob” Sjogren, 87, passed away February 21, 2024 following an illness. Bob was born December 8, 1936 in Manistique, MI, son of Goldie (Byers) and Jonas Sjogren.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Carolyn (Bessom) Sjogren, his children Michael Sjogren and his wife Linda, Jerry Sjogren and his wife Nancy, Diane Coz, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son Kenneth in 2010. His birth mother Pearl Whitman was also close to the Sjogren family throughout his life.

Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with funeral arrangements.

Helen Lambert, 74

MARLBOROUGH - Helen “Terry” (Palmer) Lambert, 74 of Marlboro, died Friday February 23, 2024 at the Lutheran Rehabilitation and Skilled Care Center in Worcester MA. She was the daughter of the late Robert “Skip” and Helen T. (Ross) Palmer.

Terry is survived by her children Monique Skarin and her fiancé John Francolini of Worcester, James Lambert of Marlboro and Anne-Marie Palmer and her partner John Jordan of Windham ME. Terry was a loving Nana to her eight grandchildren, Alexander & Abigail Skarin, Katelyn, Kristen & Lindsey Lambert, Alexandria Woods, Kaelyn & Catherine Galipeau, and her two greatgrandchildren Aubrey Galipeau & Jaylynn Woods. Her four sisters Annamae Grout, Deanna Blais and her husband Andre’, Nancy Bent and her husband Richard, Jeanette Laucis, her two brothers Robert Palmer and his wife Donna, and David Palmer and his wife Denise. She was predeceased by her two brothers-in-law James Grout and Kenneth Laucis. She will also be missed by many nieces and nephews as well as her childhood friends Virginia Metevia and Mary Pat Di Rico.

The Slattery Funeral Home, Inc. of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Edith A. Shea, 96

SHREWSBURY - Edith A. (Moosey) Shea, 96, longtime resident of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 23, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Beloved wife of the late James A. Shea. Loving mother of James J. Shea. Visit Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury for updated information.

MARLBOROUGH

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH LEGAL NOTICE

Public Hearing –Special Permit

Applicant: Alta Behavioral Health, LLC

Locus: 400 Donald J. Lynch Boulevard

Map 29, Parcel(s) 29

Notice is given that the City Council of the City of Marlborough will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, March 25, 2024, at 8:00 PM in City Council Chambers, 2nd floor City Hall, 140 Main Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts, on the Application for Special Permit from Alta Behavioral Health, LLC, to operate a nonresidential/ outpatient facility licensed under 105 CMR 164 as a substance abuse treatment program in an existing building at 400 Donald J. Lynch Boulevard.

The application materials and plans are available for viewing in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 140 Main Street, Marlborough, MA 01752, Telephone 508-460-3775. In addition, the plans and application will be available online at www.marlborough-ma.gov/citycouncil under Public Hearing Notices.

Per Order of the City Council #24-1009099

SHREWSBURY

NOTIFICATION OF REFILLING LAKE QUINSIGAMOND / FLINT POND

The Lake Quinsigamond Commission will raise the water level, or refill, Lake Quinsigamond and Flint Pond located in Grafton, Shrewsbury and Worcester on or about March 2, 2024. The Irish Dam in Grafton will be raised over the next few weeks until the water elevation is back to full status by April 1st.

The exposed bank and bottom is a protected resource under the Wetlands Protection Act. Filling or dredging is prohibited. Disposal of the debris is the responsibility of the homeowner. Debris must be disposed of offsite in accordance with all local, state and federal laws and regulations.

All boats should be removed from the water to prevent damage.

Homeowner care should be given to docks and shoreline structures to prevent damage from flowing ice. 02/27/2024

In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 5, the Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Select Board Meeting Room, at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts regarding proposed amendments to the

Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw, as follows:

ARTICLE

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section II, Definitions, to add the definition of Brew Pub or to take any other action in relation thereto.

ARTICLE

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section VII.M Lakeway Overlay District to allow Nanobrewery and Brew Pub by right; and a Microbrewery by Special Permit through the Planning Board or to take any other action in relation thereto.

ARTICLE

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section VII.N Route 20 Overlay District to allow Nanobrewery and Brew Pub by right; and a Microbrewery by Special Permit through the Planning Board or to take any other action in relation thereto.

ARTICLE

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section VII.O Edgemere Village Overlay District to allow Brew Pub by right and Nanobrewery by Special Permit through the Planning Board or to take any other action in relation thereto.

ARTICLE

To amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Shrewsbury by expanding the Campus Overlay District as shown on the Exhibit Plan as on file with the Office of the Town Clerk, or to take any other action in relation thereto.

The Draft Zoning Exhibit and Plan may be seen on the Planning Board webpage at: https://shrewsburyma. gov/284/Planning-Board

ARTICLE

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section V.C to update the date from August 2, 1967 to May 18, 1955, or to take any other action in relation thereto.

The complete text, where applicable, may be seen during regular business hours in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department, the Office of the Town Clerk at the Municipal Office Building at 100 Maple Avenue and the Shrewsbury Public Library at 609 Main Street.

SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD

Maurice DePalo, Chairman

Stephan M. Rodolakis, Vice Chairman

Julie Holstrom., Clerk

Purnachander Rao

Konstantin Eliadi

NOTICE OF HEARINGG.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Jarad DeWolfe, 158 South Quinsigamond Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, has filed a Request for Determina-

tion of Applicability for the construction of a paver patio and retaining walls at 158 South Quinsigamond Avenue.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, March 19, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room at Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chairman

NOTICE OF HEARINGG.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that, Crystal Reed, 25 Van Ness Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of 4 trees at 218 Old Mill Road.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday

Evening, March 19, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room at Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chairman

FAMILY & PROBATE LAW INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. WO24P0329EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Worcester Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Linda Heggerick

Date of Death: December 31, 2021

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner William C. Heggerick of Scituate MA

A Will has been admitted to informal probate.

The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.

SOUTHBOROUGH

Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday March 277, 2024 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http://sta.ibidsmart.com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles. Starting March 12, 2024 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http:// sta.ibidsmart.com.

This is not an absolute auction we reserve the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta.ibidsmart.com call 508-485-0503 for bidding instructions.

2009 Toyota Corolla

VIN: 1NXBU40E79Z053540

Owned by MTS Concrete, LLC

2003 Chevrolet Silverado 3500

VIN:1GBJK34113E226871

Owned by Gervasio Cardoso-Dearaujo 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Vin: JM1NDAB76L0414544

Owned by Richard P Brauer

2019 Ram 3500

VIN: 3C63RRHL3KG582333

Owned by Edelmiro Montanez

2008 Ford F150

VIN: 1FTRX14W48FC20077

Owned by Richard Mills

2010 Chevrolet Malibu

VIN: 1G1ZA5E00AF279113

Owned by Mary Smith

2002 Dodge Dakota

VIN: 1B7GG12X32S691686

Owned by Michael D Provencher

This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.

Publication Friday March 8, 15 and 22, 2024 Community Advocate.

HUDSON

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The HUDSON HOUSING AUTHORITY, the Awarding Authority, invites sealed bids from Contractors for the Storage Sheds - Norma Oliver Village at Norma Oliver Village in Hudson, Massachusetts, in accordance with the documents prepared by ANDREW M. BROCKWAY & ASSOCIATES

The Project consists of but not limited to:

Removal and replacement of four storage sheds and the painting of one existing storageshed at one site. Project includes pouring three new concrete slab-on-grade foundations and providing one new timber frame foundation.

The work is estimated to cost $65,000.00

Bids are subject to M.G.L. c.149 §44A-J & to minimum wage rates as required by M.G.L. c.149 §§26 to 27H inclusive; Federal Regulation 24 CFR Part 85.36

and the Davis-Bacon Act.

THIS PROJECT IS BEING ELECTRONICALLY BID AND HARD COPY BIDS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Please review the instructions in the bid documents on how to register as an electronic bidder. All Bids shall be submitted online at www.biddocs.com and received no later than the date and time specified.

General Bids will be received until 27 March 2024 on 12:00PM EDT and publicly opened online, forthwith.

General bids and sub-bids shall be accompanied by a bid deposit that is not less than five (5%) of the greatest possible bid amount (including all alternates), and made payable to the HUD-

SON HOUSING AUTHORITY

Bid Forms and Contract Documents will be available for review at www.biddocs. com (may be viewed and downloaded electronically at no cost).

PRE-BID CONFERENCE / SITE VISIT:

Scheduled Date and Time: 03/14/2024 at 10:00AM EDT Address: 4 Glen Road, Hudson, MA 01749

Instructions: Meet at the Community Building.

The hard copy Contract Documents may be seen at:

Nashoba Blue Inc. 433 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749 978-568-1167

‘Steel Magnolias’ comes to Shrewsbury in March

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – A soul-filled story of Southern friendship will soon take the stage in Shrewsbury.

After a successful production of “Spamalot” in August, Square One Players will present “Steel Magnolias” in Southgate’s Flanagan Theater, 30 Julio Drive. The group encourages everyone to attend the show, which will run on March 16, 17, 23 and 24.

Set in Louisiana, “Steel Magnolias” tells the story of a group of close-knit women living in a small town. Whereas “Spamalot” involved over-the-top, chaotic action and dozens of props, “Steel Magnolias” features drama and character development.

Joanne Smith and Tara Alano — two of the three women who own and operate Square One Players — said the turnout for auditions was overwhelming, and “Steel Magnolias” has an extremely talented cast.

“It was tough, which was a nice problem to have. There were so many people who came, and so many people

who were good. It’s really nice to see new faces,” Alano told the Community Advocate.

“It makes our hearts full knowing people want to work with us,” added Smith.

For Alano, who grew up watching “Steel Magnolias” with her father, the play is especially meaningful.

“I saw it last with my dad, who has since passed. I can vividly remember some of the phrases in this and some

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of the scenes where you’re crying and both of us — both male and female — laughing. It just gets into the human condition. Just how close we are to never knowing what’s going to happen — the bond we have with friends, sisters, siblings, or daughters, or fathers, in my case. Those moments are cherished. You just don’t know. It’s just one of those stories that had a big takeaway with me,” she said.

The 150-seat Flanagan Theater is an “intimate” venue, said Smith, noting that there’s “not a bad seat in the house.”

“When these people are on stage, you can almost get immersed. You become part of the story with them,” she said.

There are no major profits to be made from this show. It’s all done out of love for the arts. Many of the performers have 9-to-5 jobs and use the play as an opportunity to share their talent with the community.

“We do this just to keep doing it. There is no payroll. We do it to continue to entertain… We really enjoy this. It’s not just for them — it’s for us as well. This is our therapy. This is our ‘home away from home.’ We meet so many people. We make so many friends,” Alano said.

The March 16 and 23 shows start at 7:30 p.m., while the March 17 and 24 shows begin at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $17 for students and seniors. To reserve your tickets, or to learn more about Square One Players, please visit https://www.squareoneplayers.com/ or call 508669-7750.

Candidates | from page 11

upkeep, we will understand the value of it and hopefully be not so caught unawares of ‘Oh, this big building over here needs a lot of help,’ which indeed it does,” Moberg said.

Other candidates identified additional concerns.

Conklin said, in regards to the Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to Read Statement, “only the current technocracy view is presented at the Westborough Public Library.”

Conklin said he was for inclusion of all viewpoints, “not just what people in the current library deem as acceptable for the people of Westborough to take as the dogma that they should be following.”

Karp said he was concerned about the “assault” on the library through the removal of books and “attempted intimidation” of staff.

“This is absolutely something that we can’t tolerate,” he said. “The idea that we should listen to what everybody has to say is nice in theory, but what we have to listen to is legitimate, well-thought out issues, not doctrinaire nonsense from fringe groups.”

The cast of Square One Players’ production of “Steel Magnolias.” (L-R, back row) Catherine Haverkampf as Truvy, Ali Rei as Ouiser, Krissi Forgues as Clairee, Abbie Levinson as Annelle. (L-R, front row) Laura Austin as Shelby and Brenda (Jenkins) Macedo as M’Lynn. (Photo/Courtesy)

Analyst, Principal GBS Process Improvement

Marlborough, MA

May require to travel/telecommute. Support the implementation of SAP Ariba in countries where Boston Scientific has sales/manufacturing sites.

Contact: Susan Cardinal, Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com.

Please include reference H4872-00432. (EOE).

Regional Manager

Marlborough, MA

May require to travel/telecommute. Monitor & forecast marketing & sales trends by preparing quarterly regional sales forecasts and participates in determination of market potential and sales expense estimates.

Contact: Susan Cardinal, Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com.

Please include reference H4872-00170. (EOE).

SAP Technical Lead

Nitto Denko Avecia, Inc. is seeking a SAP Technical Lead for its office in Milford, MA to provide technical support to the Avecia SAP system and to guide the Hitachi technical SAP team including establishing standards on getting requirements from functional team. The position requires a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Engineering, or related degree, and 3 years’ experience in the job offered or any related occupation, to include 3 years’ experience in SAP Basis administration, including S/4HANA; and 3 years’ experience as technical lead with a minimum of one (1) full lifecycle SAP S/4 implementation. Employee may work remotely within commuting distance of employer HQ in Milford, MA. Employer will accept any suitable combination of education, experience, and training. Experience may have been gained concurrently.

Interested individuals should apply online at https://avecia. com/careers using keywords “SAP Technical Lead.”

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Want to know more about heat pumps and solar panels? How about more information on planting a tree, or a chance to have a tree planted by the Department of Public Works anywhere in town?

Interested in taking part in a recycling relay, or checking out student-created art focused on the environment?

Then come to the third annual Westborough Environmental Action Fair, “WEAF 2024,” on Saturday, March 16, at Westborough High School from 1 to 4 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the Rotary Club and Sustainable Westborough.

“The goal is to convince people they can do something in their personal lives [to save the environment],” said Peter Dunbeck, the chair of Sustainable Westborough.

The fair will have a lineup of more than 40 exhibitors,

including vendors offering solar, heat pump and Mass Save assessments, as well as local and regional environmental advocacy groups.

Several town departments will be on hand as well. Tree Warden Kyle Grendell will offer best practices for planting trees, while Town Planner

Jenny Gingras will talk about green zoning.

The town will also offer information about its new policies with Waste Management regarding disposal of trash and recycling.

The Rotary Club will raffle off a tree; the winner may have it planted anywhere in town

for free courtesy of the DPW.

There will be about two dozen student, community organizations and art projects exhibiting information on various environmental issues and solutions.

This will include videos recorded by students at Gibbons Middle School, along with an “Art for Earth” student poster contest that has more than 30 participants.

Speaking of posters, members of the high school’s Art Club created a publicity poster that will be given a prominent place at the fair. Some of the club members will act as judges in the poster contest.

In addition, there will be quizzes, games, art contests and other activities.

You can also satisfy your sweet tooth with snacks from Yummy Mummy and the BORO Sugar Shack.

The registration forms for volunteers and exhibitors are available at: https://www. westboroughma.gov/1145/ Volunteer-Registration.

Hybrid meetings | from page 13 in mid-January. After delays pushed the project to March, the expectation is that the technology will be available soon.

The question of how often boards will use the new technology remains. With virtual-only meetings still permitted, and hybrid meetings still technically allowing elected representatives to participate virtually, the hybrid meetings could become de facto virtual-only meetings.

“I think it’s too early to forecast specifics for future meetings,” Cohen said in an email statement. “We have occasional meetings that are only Executive Session, where there’s no public attendance and we meet with the Town Counsel who might be some distance away. Or we might switch a regular hybrid meeting to fully remote during a snowstorm. We’ll know a lot more once we’ve had a few regular hybrid meetings.”

The Community Advocate reached out to Planning Board Chair Kerri Martinek as to whether the Planning Board would continue to meet virtually. She did not respond to several requests for comment.

Peter Dunbeck checks out the vendors at the 2023 Environmental Action Fair at Westborough High School. (Courtesy Photo)

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – Playoff wins are always special, but this one likely stands out for Marisa “Risa” Montoya.

As teammates spilled onto the ice after another convincing Shrewsbury playoff victory, they gathered around Montoya to celebrate. Montoya, the Colonials’ goalie and senior captain, had just etched her name in Shrewsbury history as the program’s all-time winningest goalie. The four-year starter — who began her career with a COVID-shortened season — earned win number 57 on March 2, eclipsing the mark set by Riley MacCausland.

“Being a Colonial has been a really fun experience, playing with these girls and seeing them every day all winter has been incredible. Some of them

I didn’t know before this and they’re my best friends now and I talk to them every day. Some of them I talk to every day outside of the season. It’s just been really

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fun. It’s a huge accomplishment for me, and I’m really excited,” Montoya told the Community Advocate after the game.

And even better for Montoya,

she’ll have the opportunity to earn win number 58, and — if she’s lucky — 59 and 60. The seventh-seeded Shrewsbury Colonials continued their bid for back-to-back championships on March 2 at NorthStar Ice Sports, defeating the 10th-seeded Bishop Feehan Shamrocks, 4-1, to advance to the MIAA Division 1 Elite 8. The match was scrappy, but it was controlled by Shrewsbury the whole way.

“When you get to the last 16 teams in the state, it gets tougher every game. We knew this was going to be a battle — [Bishop Feehan is a] big, physical team. We watched a lot of film on them, and I thought we matched up pretty well against them… We executed our game plan… We kept the puck in the zone… Everything we did, we did right. We played hockey in all three zones very well tonight,” Shrewsbury Head Coach Frank Panarelli said.

After 10 minutes of scorelessness in the first period, Shrewsbury’s Lauren Albertson — assisted by Bridget McLaughlin — scored to put Shrewsbury up early. Just 11 seconds into the second period, Mia Ryder — assisted by Blaire Fay — took advantage of a power-play opportunity to double Shrewsbury’s lead.

Albertson scored again to open the third period, putting the Colonials up 3-0.

“She’s only a sophomore. And she’s a goal-scorer. Lauren’s a goal-scorer. You can’t teach

scoring goals. She’s got a knack for the net. Goal-scorers have a knack for being in the right place at the right time, and that’s what happened,” said Panarelli.

In desperation mode, the Shamrocks scored in the game’s final minutes to cut Shrewsbury’s lead to 3-1. Shrewsbury’s Kealy Fay matched the score less than 60 seconds later, giving the Colonials another three-goal lead and adding an exclamation point to an already-convincing win. Throughout the game, the Colonials outshot Bishop Feehan 23-7, turning in a dominant defensive performance.

The win over Bishop Feehan sets Shrewsbury on a collision course with No. 2 Saint Mary’s (Lynn) in the Elite 8. Last year, the Colonials defeated St. Mary’s, 4-1, at TD Garden to win the 2023 MIAA Division 1 championship. It will take another championship-level effort to defeat the Eastern Massachusetts powerhouse, but Shrewsbury will be ready and motivated.

“We are still one of the strongest teams in the state, no matter where they rank us. We’ll go out there and play hard,” Panarelli said.

The Elite 8 match will be played on Thursday, after the Community Advocate goes to print.

For full coverage of Shrewsbury’s playoff run — including coverage of the team’s Round of 32 win against Bishop Stang — please visit https://www.communityadvocate.com/category/ sports/.

Above: The puck goes airborne as Shrewsbury’s Paige Umile tries to tap it in. Right: Shrewsbury players embrace after scoring the game’s first goal against Bishop Feehan. (Photos/Evan Walsh)

Algonquin boys hockey playoff hopes dashed in double overtime

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – When Algonquin’s Jack Gulachenski scored 31 seconds into the game, it seemed the Titans’ opening-round playoff matchup would be a breeze.

After Whitman-Hanson Regional High School answered less than two minutes later, many realized the game would be a battle. A battle the Algonquin boys would ultimately lose.

Hundreds packed into NorthStar Ice Sports on Feb. 29 for the MIAA Division 2 Round of 32 playoff game. After an intense, back-and-forth game that featured two hat tricks, 13 goals, two overtimes, 77 total shots and countless momentum swings, the No. 17 Whitman-Hanson Panthers defeated the No. 14 Algonquin Titans by a score of 7-6. Though the Titans fought hard — coming within centimeters of prevailing in the win-or-go-home game — Algonquin’s season ended with heartbreak.

“It was one heck of a game to be a part of. I couldn’t be more happy with the way we played to be honest with you,” said Algonquin Head Coach Greg Cappello. “The guys played so hard. They rose to the occasion… It was just a

fantastic high-school hockey game. I think if the guys can hold onto that, they’ll be able to be proud of it.” The contest featured multiple lead changes, but Whitman-Hanson led by one heading into the game’s final 15 seconds. In desperation mode, the Titans pulled their goalie, and with the numbers advantage, Wyatt Shea saved Algonquin’s season for the time being, shooting through traffic to tie the game at 6-6.

“[Wyatt is] a senior, quiet leader. He’s a behind-the-

scenes guy who does all the right things on the ice. He put that one away, but it took everyone there. It was a ton of determination,” Cappello said, noting his team’s toughness and resilience with the season hanging in the balance.

After Shea’s heroics, the game went into overtime — a sudden-death, eight-minute 4-on-4 period. After a scoreless first overtime, both teams played an eight-minute 3-on3 period to decide the game. The Titans were centimeters

away from victory — two potential game-winning shots bounced off the posts — but it wasn’t to be. Just over halfway through the second overtime, Whitman-Hanson iced the game.

Algonquin — especially the team’s nine seniors — took the loss hard. The team gathered on the ice after the loss and spent considerable time in the locker room postgame.

But, according to Cappello, the team tried to focus on the good after the season-ending loss. The Titans finished the year 11-6-3.

“We went around the room… and tried to pull all the good stuff out of the game. There was a ton of it for us, so that wasn’t hard to do. But it’s heartbreaking. You’ve got nine seniors; it’s their last game. It means a whole lot to everybody. We had hopes of moving on and showing what we could do down the stretch against really good competition. So, it’s both of those things: It’s a lot of tears and a lot of praise,” he said.

Johnny Meschisen is tripped by a WhitmanHanson defender. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Jack Gulachenski handles the puck. (Photo/Evan Walsh)