CA 240419

Town Meeting article asks for $540K to replace police station siding

northborough| 10

Expansion of overcrowded Shrewsbury High debated

Shrewsbury| 14

Saint John’s baseball prevails over Colonials

shrewsbury| 22

Northborough church begins to rebuild following fire

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – On the outside, the Church of the Nativity on Howard Street looks the same — except for the caution tape around the main entrances, the dark streaks on the roof and the smell of smoke that still hangs in the air.

Early on Tuesday, April 9, an electrical fire broke out in the church’s nave. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire, but it took several days to assess the extent of the damage.

“The nave was singed, the kneelers were burned, the wood … there was heavy smoke and water damage,” said the Rev. Meghan Mantler, the deacon-in-charge. “We are thankful that no one was hurt.”

“We are blessed that our stained-glass windows weren’t damaged,” said Senior Warden Deborah Hesek. “It was quite an intense fire — the paint melted off the pews.”

Hesek showed some photos of the sacristy, where vestments, candles and other items are kept. Those items were destroyed, along with $2,000 worth of flowers that decorated the church for the Easter season.

Overall, the fire caused $175,000 in damage.

The service on Sunday, April 14, went on as scheduled in a tent just outside the church. St. Stephen’s in Westborough gave the Northborough church Communion cups and plates,

Westborough imposes sewer moratorium

By Maureen Sullivan, Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – It’s official – Westborough will have a sewer moratorium for the next year.

During its meeting on April 9, the Select Board voted to approve the Department of Public Works’ (DPW) request to impose restrictions on new sewer connections and expansions.

In part, the moratorium exists “… to protect the integrity of the town sanitary system by prohibiting new connections, system expansions, and increases in flow for a temporary period of time … to determine whether and upon what terms and conditions such increases in flow may be permitted in the future,” it reads.

At issue is exactly how much flow is being allocated, and how much remains to be allocated.

According to DPW Director Chris Payant, the town is allowed up to 2.89 million gallons per day (mgd) of wastewater to flow to the treatment plant, which is also used by Shrewsbury and Hop -

kinton. The average daily flow for Westborough is 2.27 mgd.

Over the years, as residential and commercial developments went online and connected to town sewers, the exact amount of flow and allocation became obscured.

“We gave away flow very easily and we didn’t keep track,” said Town Engineer Lisa Allain.

Over the past 18 months, Allain has compiled information on the sewer allocations for each commercial property in town — some of which date back decades. That information is now with a consultant; Payant said a “memo with a table” will be available in June, and a draft will be circulated among town boards.

The moratorium will give the town time to “better understand the problem” and come up with a plan to better allocate sewer flow for residential and commercial properties.

“This is a very complex issue,” said Payant. “It’s

A fire early on Tuesday, April 9, caused about $175,000 in damages to the Church of the Nativity in Northborough. (Photo/Church of the Nativity)

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Managing Editor:

As we approach Earth Day on Monday, April 22, 2024, I feel compelled to write about an activity that can have a profound environmental effect: composting.

Composting food scraps and other organic material produces a nutrient rich sludge that, when added to soil, reduces/eliminates the need for synthetic fertilizers, and sequesters carbon in that very same soil.

Good soil sequesters more carbon than living plans and the atmosphere combined. Next to burning fossil fuels, harmful agricultural practices (single crop farming, tilling, chemical fertilizers, etc.) are the main contributors to carbon emissions. By choosing to support

sustainable farming practices whenever possible such as buying local and/or organic produce and meat, not purchasing items by Big Ag companies, and by composting, we can keep our families and our earth healthier.

Now, you may have legitimate arguments against composting. You may not have space in your yard for a decaying mound of organic glop. You may not be a huge fan of the raccoons, skunks and rats it might attract. You may not have the time, strength, or lack of olfactory senses to constantly rake a rotate a compost pile. All valid. And I have a solution!

Black Earth Composting comes to my house every other week to pick up my bag of compost. On my kitchen counter sits a ceramic jar into which I throw all my culinary scraps. When that gets full, I simply take the bag

and place it in the green garbage cart (provided by Black Earth) that I keep with all my other garbage cans. I call it the lazy lady’s compost. Black Earth (I don’t know of another company who offers this resource) services all areas from Worcester eastward. Once a certain number of enrolled residents is reached in a town, the cost reduces. Our family once used 2 large town green trash bags per week - now we use 1 small.

Why not look into the practice of composting this Earth Day? Either the original method or the lazy lady way with Black Earth. The world will thank you.

Sincerely,

Laura McLarnon Northborough

Ryan Maloney, owner

Kombucha

Kombucha, a fermented tea beverage with ancient origins, has experienced a modern resurgence in popularity due to its potential health benefits and refreshing taste. Made by fermenting sweetened tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, or SCOBY, kombucha undergoes a transformation process that results in a tangy, slightly effervescent drink. Its flavor profile can vary widely, ranging from mildly sweet to pleasantly tart, with additional nuances from ingredients like fruits, herbs, and spices. As consumers seek out natural and functional beverages, kombucha has become a favorite choice for those looking to add a health-conscious option to their routine. Whether enjoyed straight from the bottle or as a base for creative cocktails, kombucha captivates taste buds and inspires worldwide appreciation.

The fermenting process adds a bit of alcohol to kombucha. Alcohol levels are typically below 0.5%, allowing traditional kombucha to be sold as a nonalcoholic beverage. 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

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Build Better Shrewsbury

A copy of the Environmental Notification Form Certificate included in the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Interstate Crossing Industrial Park at 142 Clinton St. in Shrewsbury, refers to the “fifty years useful life identified for both warehouses.” Surely the town can do better. Endangering the town’s aquifer (a possibly eternal natural resource for Central New England), air quality throughout the town, and

diminishing quality of life and property values for surrounding neighborhoods, for projects with a fifty-year life expectancy (and as yet unknown tenants) hardly seems worth it.

With GFI partners seemingly unlimited resources, surely something of more practical and aesthetic value, something more aligned with the expressed hope in the town’s masterplan for the northwest corner of town, can be planned. If the proponent were to provide a solar farm for

appropriately named Sun Valley, SELCO could probably power a substantial portion of the town.

Should the developer feel the need to build something large (the proposed warehouses would encompass several football fields) an indoor sports facility complete with skating, a pool, indoor soccer field, and amenities, would complement nearby Shrewsbury High School’s athletic offerings, and indeed benefit the whole town, making Shrewsbury a destination for families, not parades

of diesel tractor trailers. Facilities like these might even last longer than fifty years.

A development that would directly benefit residents while protecting our environment would meet with far less opposition. Shrewsbury can “Build Better.”

Sincerely, Scott E. Nolan, Shrewsbury

I have found many residents of Northborough are unaware of the proposed zoning changes and

related articles # 49 - #63 on the docket for the town meeting on April 22 – 23, 2024.

MBTA Community Law:

Northborough must comply with the MBTA and have at least 50 acres of developable land zoned for multifamily houses, including 15% as affordable housing. The town added mixed-use businesses and residential areas to the zoning changes to support the downtown revitalization program by increasing the population density.

Article # 49 Two Subdistricts

Proposed:

Southwest Connector Subdistrict is 47.94 acres, and the Downtown Subdistrict is 11.29.

• Impact: The downtown area contains significant historic buildings and residential neighborhoods. With high-density housing in its center, the town’s landscape and nature will transform it from a quaint small town. Yes, quaint. When was the last time you noticed the beautiful historic buildings? These are unique to Northborough, much to be proud of, and should set the tone for the downtown. Not highdensity housing, it has a city-like feel and adds to the incongruousness of the center of town.

Traffic yields 20,000 cars each day. Population density will increase local traffic, affect air quality, noise, and the quality of life in the immediate neighborhood, and impact town services.

• The proposed Downtown Subdistrict zoning is for 75 units of housing built on the Hudson Street end of the lot, with a height of 35 feet (3.5 stories high). Along Main Street, it is zoned for mixed-use: retail on the first floor and housing above, with a height of 40 feet (4 stories high). A cityscape view.

• The Assabet River, as part of the developable parcel, has some protection. Any land currently in use is grandfathered in for uses/ development, e.g., a blacktopped area 2 feet from the riverbank. The developer can relocate the wetlands within the development.

I propose that the town remove the Downtown Subdivision from the plan/article and choose a 5-acre area that is more appropriate for high-density housing.

Many residents have heard the possibility of development on the site is low. If you remove an obstacle for developers and clear the path, they will come!

Please vote at the Town Meeting.

Nadine Proctor Northborough

Armeno Coffee Roasters to celebrate 30th anniversary

NORTHBOROUGH – In 1908, the Armeno Cereal Company took up residence in what we now lovingly refer to as “the mill” by Smith Pond in Northborough. Producing wheat for bulgur, tabouli and couscous for most of the century, the mill passed through three generations of the Kalenian family before Paul Kalenian changed gears, founding Armeno Coffee Roasters in 1994.

Taking inspiration from George Howell’s Coffee Connection, Armeno began specializing in freshly roasting mid-crop, 100% Arabica beans from around the world. Six years later, Kalenian sold the company to trusted employees Chuck Coffman and John Parks, who remain the owners, roasters and face of Armeno today.

Now celebrating its 30 th birthday, the roastery has thrived off of word of mouth to become a mainstay of the community. New folks, drawn in by the scent of coffee on the air, are surprised and delighted by what they find: not a café, but a peek behind the scenes into the daily roasting process, and an invitation to experience craft coffee in a way they never have before.

Though supplying local businesses has always been Armeno’s primary focus, the company’s reach has expanded considerably in the last five years to include a robust following of everyday mail-order consumers all across the nation. As for their walk-in regulars, the breadth and quality of options is what makes Armeno’s retail storefront stand apart, boasting more than forty single estate varietals, as well as a dozen custom blends and a selection of Swiss Water Processed decaf.

There’s a bean for everyone in Armeno’s selection, and no one is happier to guide you through the process of finding it than Armeno’s long-time crew. However, they’ll be the first to tell you that no matter which you choose, the key factor is freshness. Armeno’s small batch, daily roasting speaks for itself the moment you try it. Fair warning though, once you taste the difference, you may never turn back!

Armeno’s will also be holding a wine tasting event on April 20 between 1 to 4 p.m., featuring entertainment and cheese and crackers.

Correction: In the April 5 issue, the article “Westborough senior named a presidential scholar” erroneously stated that Kyran Trivedi had been named a presidential scholar. She is a candidate. We regret the error.

NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Arts Council will be holding “The Art of Giving” exhibit and auction on April 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Goodwin Farm, 270 South St. The Northborough Arts Council (NAC) is the new nonprofit arm of the Northborough Cultural Council, dedicated to providing financial assistance to the cultural council and developing and funding public art projects to reflect residents’ sense of place, town history and culture.

NAC was incorporated by former and current cultural

council members. The council’s goal is to complement existing town initiatives and support area artists.

All proceeds from The Art of Giving will fund public art projects in Northborough. There will be an online art auction, including art from mostly local artists. The auction will be open through April 27 and can be found at https:// www.32auctions.com/NboroArtsCouncil.

Tickets cost $35 for singles and $60 for a couple. To register, visit https://www.northboroughartscouncil.org/.

Armeno Coffee Roasters is celebrating its 30th birthday. (Photo/Courtesy)

Northborough church begins to rebuild following fire

while All Saints in Worcester delivered a pascal candle.

Mantler said the first priority is to get the church’s preschool up and running. The area sustained mostly water damage, and remediation is under way.

She hopes to have services back inside in the church hall within the next week or two.

Mantler has more than a church to restore. In a few weeks, she will be ordained into the Episcopal priesthood. She hopes the ceremony can be held at the Church of the Nativity, where she will continue to

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury is testing a new style of pay-as-you-throw bags.

Assistant Town Manager Keith Baldinger discussed the bags at the Select Board’s April 9 meeting.

The Department of Public Works is currently conducting a survey on the pay-as-you-throw bag program. The town has purchased 1,000 wavetop-style bags for the town to test; residents will be asked to scan a QR code and complete a satisfaction survey after using the bags. The wave-top

bag has handle ties cut into the bag, as opposed to the drawstring bags currently in use.

The bags are also thicker than bags currently in use.

Residents can pick the bags up at Town Hall at the DPW counter or Town Manager’s office, the Senior Center and at upcoming events like SELCO’s Arbor Day Celebration in late April.

“We’d really appreciate residents coming and taking a look at these,” Baldinger said.

Regardless of whether the town chooses the wave-top bags, Shrewsbury’s bags will be thicker come July 1 when the new trash hauler, Casella Waste Systems, begins service. serve.

“I’ve been through Hurricane Katrina,” said Mantler, who also has a background in social work. “We know how to rebuild.”

Insurance will cover most of the damage. For those items that insurance won’t cover, the church has established a restoration fund. Donations may be sent to the church, 45 Howard St., Northborough, MA 01532; write “restoration fund” on the memo line.

For information on the Church of the Nativity, visit https://www.churchofthenativity.org/

Candidates’ Night in Southborough April 25

SOUTHBOROUGH – The Trustees of the Southborough Library will hold a Candidates’ Night at Cordavile Hall, 9 Cordaville Road, on Thursday, April 25.

This event will give Southborough voters a chance to meet the candidates, ask questions and get answers. All candidates running for election or re-election in the Annual Town Election have been invited.

The event will begin at 6:30

p.m. with a meet-and-greet session for the public and all candidates for office. The moderated program will begin promptly at 7 p.m. with statements and a question-and-answer session with candidates for the Select Board.

Candidates in uncontested races will be recognized and are encouraged to attend.

Library Trustee and event organizer Janet Maney will serve as moderator. Refresh-

ments will be available.

Event sponsors include Wegmans in Northborough and the Friends of the Library.

The Annual Town Election will be Tuesday, May 9. Polls at Trottier Middle School’s gym, 49 Parkerville Road, will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For information on the election, contact the town clerk’s office at 508-485-0710, ext. 3005; https://www.southboroughma.gov/195/Town-Clerk.

Church fire | from page 1

The Church of the Nativity in Northborough (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

Westborough Soldiers’ Monument commemorates those who died in the Civil War COMMUNITY HISTORY

WESTBOROUGH THEN NOW

By Kate Tobiasson History Columnist

WESTBOROUGH - When the Civil War erupted in the spring of 1861, Westborough residents were quick to answer President Lincoln’s call to arms. A thriving town with a number of burgeoning industries, Westborough residents voted “That the town appropriate five thousand dollars to be expended in the purchase of uniforms, the pay of men while drilling and for pay in addition to the amount paid by the Government, when called into active service.” The Westborough Rifle Company enlisted 101 recruits in April of 1861. Fifty-six of the men were from Westborough, with the remainder of the company joining from neighboring towns. Throughout the coming years, 337 men from Westborough served in the Civil War effort.

Women in town worked to contribute to the war effort, outfitting each Westborough soldier with a uniform, fatigue suit, havelock, thread bag, towels, handkerchiefs, soap and a comb. Throughout the Civil War, the local Soldier’s Sewing Society made hundreds of mittens, socks, towels, handkerchiefs and bandages to continue to support the soldiers while they served.

The conclusion of the Civil War in 1865 left Westborough with 62 wounded soldiers, 25 lost in battle, 14 who passed from wounds, three from disease and eight from neglect in the Southern prisons. Sadly, only five of those who died were returned to the town. Residents again came together, and in 1866, the town voted to erect the Soldiers’ Monument across from the town hall bandstand, in Memorial Cemetery.

The obelisk design was utilized in many communities throughout America at the time, and is made from granite mined in Concord, New Hampshire. The front of the monument reads, “Pro Patria Mortui Sunt” which translates to “They Are For Their Country.”

Inscribed with the names of the fallen soldiers, The Westborough Soldiers’ Monument was dedicated on June 17, 1869. Reverend Charles Flanders gave the dedication address, and was quoted by the June 25, 1869, edition of the Massachusetts Spy newspaper as having spoken on the importance of monuments, ranging from the pyramids of

Egypt to the Westborough Soldiers’ Monument. He closed his address by stating, “We come to dedicate this monument to a cause which was God’s cause, to the memory of those faithful young men whose forms we knew, whose valor we admired, those who were inexpressibly dear to friends who forget them not.”

Today, the Soldiers’ Monument still stands at the center of Memorial Cemetery; the fountain and surrounding garden beds are maintained by the Westborough Garden Club. Residents gather at the feet of the monument at the conclusion of holiday parades while commemorative addresses are given. In the summer, children

laugh and play around the fountain, and the monument stands proudly at the center of community events. Much of the collaborative spirit displayed by residents during the Civil War continues to fuel Westborough community organizations’ focus. Westborough is a town that believes in standing for one another.

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The Westborough Soldiers’ Monument has been a gathering place at the conclusion of parades in town since its dedication in 1869. (Photo/courtesy of Phil Kittridge)

View from Memorial Cemetery of the Westborough Soldiers’ Monument, early 20th century. (Photo/ courtesy of the Westborough Digital Repository)

TRAVELING AND THE ELDERLY

The bene ts of traveling and seeing new places are immeasurable. ere can come a time, however, when you may feel you shouldn’t travel anymore. Can you be too old to travel? While only you may know the answer, there are factors to consider. For instance, the risk of getting severely ill with COVID-19 increases with age, making it more dangerous to travel for some seniors. In many European countries, the travel industry is putting age restrictions on car rentals and imposing higher insurance rates, among other constraints. Because the ability to travel is often determined by physical and mental tness, booking the right trip, such as with a senior group, can help create the best possible experience.

•

•

•

but you need to take care of yourself, too. Make sure you set aside time every day to rest and recuperate. Take a nap, or give yourself some down time to relax. You’ll still have time to get through everything on your itinerary, but you won’t risk your health while you’re at it. If a loved one requires long-term care, please consider NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011. Our center is located at 559 Plantation Street. P.S. Your doctor may also be in a position to inform you whether you’re t to travel.

MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Health Care Center, Inc. Long Term Care Center 559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508.852.3011

Travel can be fun, but it’s easy to push yourself too far. You want to see all the sights and take in all the culture,

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MariAnn Paladino, Director of Admissions

Westborough imposes sewer moratorium

Sewer

not good news, but it needs to be done.”

Some board members were dismayed at voting on a moratorium, but said it was a necessary move.

“The whole thing stinks, but we have to do this,” said Vice Chair Ian Johnson.

Exceptions

The town will allow several exceptions under the new moratorium, including existing single-family residences with a failed septic system, per the Board of Health; a change in use that does not increase allocated flow and

the expansion of residential dwelling with fewer than four bedrooms and will not exceed four bedrooms.

Exceptions also cover if a property does not use the full amount allocated, and the increase does not exceed allocation. Additionally, there will be an exception if the property is not connected, but the flow allocated through fees or permit doesn’t result in an increase above the allocation.

There will also be an exception for new construction of a residential dwelling with four bedrooms or fewer, and property abuts public way with existing sewer line.

Gift will help Willard House and Clock Museum in Grafton expand

GRAFTON – Willard House and Clock Museum, 11 Willard St., will receive a gift, valued in excess of $15 million, to grow into a world-class museum.

The offering was made possible by museum trustee Charles N. Grichar of Houston.

The plan is to build a space to accommodate 90 additional clocks with proper storage, a small auditorium, horological library, conservation workshops and classrooms.

The museum must raise $3 million for its endowment to make the gift a reality.

Willard has already benefited by significant contributions from its trustees, added funding from major Worcester-based foundations, and contributions from benefactors and other sources. Two foundations have offered matching funds to quickly grow the endowment.

“Willard holds a special place among the country’s museums,” said Executive Director

and Curator Robert C. Cheney.

“Apart from already owning and curating the world’s largest collection of Willard clocks, we wish to make the museum a nationally recognized destination for a larger and more diverse audience.”

The museum will be holding a special public event on its grounds, on Saturday, April 27, from noon to 4 p.m. The purpose of the event is to introduce Grichar and the trustees to the community; explain the vision for the new collection and building; gather feedback on the plan; and to raise funds for the museum endowment.

The Willard House and Clock Museum exhibits more than 90 Willard clocks in the birthplace and original workshop of the Willard clockmakers, along with family portraits, furnishings and other family heirlooms.

Visit the website at www. willardhouse.org.

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Conversations with our Inspiring Residents

Meet Ginger and Erin O’Connor

1. How did you make the decision to move your mom to the Willows? (Erin) Mom had started to have a couple of health and mobility issues that grounded her... we knew that driving was going to be tricky so, while she was in respite, we began looking.

2. Was location key to your selection of the Willows? (Erin) Yes, we love New England. Mom said to me, “Erin, where are we going to go to make our memories? We have always loved the Boston area... she said to me, “Let’s go home so we can spend this chapter doing the things we both love”

3. Were you surprised to learn about all the choices you would face? (Erin) There’s no handbook for how to help a parent with this transition. We wanted to find a place that would help her handle all of the changes that come with aging. Whatever the next phase is, the goal is to age in place for as long as you can in the quality and the surroundings you love .

4. What makes you feel at home at the Willows? (Ginger) It’s so clean here. This place has character. It’s not all new and chrome. This is my kind of place. I’ve met a lot of nice people. It fits us and we fit it... and the staff is so accommodating and so quick to respond.

5. What lesson did you learn about selecting a senior living facility? (Ginger) Had I been thinking about it, maybe I would’ve looked into it in my 60’s, not that I was ready for it at all, but for me to do the work to come to a place like the Willows. To say ‘all right,’ what am I looking at when I’m 80? Start looking at these places, just start to prepare. It’s important to know what your options are.

Your best life starts here. Because here, you’re family.

Town Meeting article asks for $540K to replace police station siding

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – Town

Meeting will weigh in on an appropriation of $540,000 to replace the siding and trim of the police station.

The article — Article 19 — was discussed during the April 1 Select Board meeting.

The $540,000 figure is based on an estimate from an architect. Town Administrator Tim McInerney called the $540,000 figure a “horrible number,” but the figure was an estimate and the town needed to still go out to bid.

“Hopefully, we can drive that number down,” said McInerney.

Of the total, $70,000 will be re-appropriated from an article approved during the 2023 Town Meeting to paint and repair the exterior of the station. According to McInerney, the town is also recommending passing over another article for a hook truck.

According to Finance Direc-

tor/Town Accountant Jason Little, there will not be an additional impact on taxes due to the project.

McInerney said the town has to do the work on the police station, put the project out for bid and get an appropriation “because the building will crumble even worse.”

“Within a year, you went from painting to siding to nails coming out to the tune of four inches all the way around that building. … It is in bad, bad shape,” said McInerney.

In regards to the interior of

the police station, Chief Brian Griffin said the department does have needs down the road, but they were doing OK in terms of the general structure of the interior.

“I see us being in that building for another 30 years with some TLC inside and out. It’s tight right now, but we’re surviving,” said Griffin.

During the meeting, Select Board members voiced concerns about the price tag. Laura Ziton said the price tag was “unfathomable and unconscionable” with all of the

other needed projects.

Select Board member Lisa Maselli said she talked with a representative of a company that manufactures this material.

“Based on the escalation and going from $70,000 to $540,000, I just don’t think we should move on this,” she said. “I think this is one of those things that we’re going to have to say, ‘What are we going to be able to do with our [$70,000]?’ and do some more investigation.”

She said it didn’t appear that all of the trim needed to be replaced.

“I think there’s an awful lot of speculation as to what things are going to cost. A labor bill of $111,000 is just phenomenal, and I just can’t get behind it. I don’t think that the general public should be asked to do that with having a fire station [project] and having a town offices and such,” said Maselli.

In reference to the nails, she said when the crew went to do the painting, they weren’t al-

lowed to knock the nails back in.

“Nobody went before them and resecured the clapboarding before they were painting, which is kind of crazy,” she said.

She called for rethinking the project “and the realities of maybe not being able to anything to this magnitude for another year.”

McInerney said if they waited a year, the cost would continue to rise.

Chair Mitch Cohen reiterated that the $540,000 was an estimate; it wasn’t a bid nor were specific products or companies mentioned. The project needs to go through a formal bid process, he said.

“To do that, you can’t just say, ‘Hey everybody, come look at our building and tell us what you think.’ You need to have an architect draw up the bid specs, which is a technical document that describes precisely what needs to be done … and then it goes out to bid,” said Cohen. “The ideal timeline for this would’ve been if this had been noticed six months ago.”

Retire Well. Retire Here.

This photo shows the siding near the front entrance of the Northborough Police Station.

(Photo/Laura Hayes)

An exciting Marathon Monday at The Willows at Westborough

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – While thousands participated in the 128th Boston Marathon, the second Willows Marathon concluded in Westborough.

On April 15, dozens of residents at The Willows at Westborough, a SALMON Health and Retirement community,

gathered outside to celebrate the end of their month-long initiative to get residents moving. Residents added up their movement over the last four weeks, culminating in an awards ceremony on Marathon Monday. This was The Willow’s second annual event, but this year’s celebration was “bigger and better,” according to SALMON Health and Fitness

Director Kerry Paulhus, who organized the event.

“This is a community. Everyone put this together. It was my idea, yes, but I couldn’t have done this by myself. The thing I noticed with the residents is they were kind of competing with each other for fun, but they were cheering each other on. Today, I really wanted them to feel like they were all together

as a community. For themselves and for each other,” she told the Community Advocate.

The event started with a “victory lap.” The participants took a lap around the courtyard to celebrate their achievements; the lap ended under a blueand-yellow balloon arch, and medals were passed out to the racers. Some of the participants tallied over 100 miles in the

event, with most eclipsing the 26.2-mile marathon mark.

“It makes me really proud because that’s why I do what I do. I really want to make sure that I am encouraging people — motivating people — to see that health and fitness are so important. To see that they reacted this way and really were motivated — it meant so much to me,” said Paulhus.

The 14 – passenger handicap-accessible shuttle connects local commuters and employees between the City of Marlborough and the Southborough MBTA Commuter Rail. The commuter route includes three round trips in the morning and in the evening to and from the business park at 200 Forest Street/ Campus Drive, Apex Center of New England, and downtown Marlborough. This option provides free public transportation for those who take the train to and/or from Boston & Worcester.

Monday through Friday

Morning Trips: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Afternoon/Evening Trips: 3:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Any questions or concerns, please contact us at 508-229-2010 or info@marlboroughedc.com

And they’re off! Participants take a victory lap around the courtyard to start the event.

The Willows residents head toward the finish line. (Photos/Evan Walsh)

The Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce will host the largest and “Best of Business” show in the Route 495/ MetroWest region on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, from 4:007:00 pm, at the Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel, 181 Boston Post Road, West, in Marlborough.

In its 34th year, the Chamber’s Business Expo continues to provide an unprecedented opportunity to network and interact with decision makers and industry leaders from Worcester to Boston. The trade show’s reputation has a long record for delivering a steady flow of traffic throughout the duration of the show.

With 100 exhibitors and history of 1,000 attendees, no other event puts business in front of hundreds of po -

UPCOMING EVENTS:

4/24/2024 | SPRING NETWORKING

tential new customers to forge new relationships, raise the profile of their business, and fill their sales pipeline with valuable prospects. Reported sales from past exhibitors range from $5,000 to $1 million contract.

The companies exhibiting represent diverse areas of business and nonprofits to showcase their products, services, and resources.

Photo by Weigl Photography

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The Select Board voted, 3-2, on April 9 to approve sending a Statement of Interest (SOI) to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to potentially expand Shrewsbury High School (SHS).

Although the School Committee unanimously approved submitting the SOI on March 13, the statement required the Select Board’s approval to be considered. This is the second year Shrewsbury has submitted an SOI to expand SHS, but last year’s project was not selected by the MSBA. The Select Board approved last year’s SOI unanimously on March 28, 2023.

The SOI is non-binding, and Shrewsbury does not commit itself to anything by submitting the statement. The SHS project will now be entered into the MSBA’s extensive review process. The MSBA could fund

a significant portion of any chosen project.

While all Select Board members agreed that it is important to support the schools, questions about the project’s potential financial implications led to the close vote. Select Board members John Samia, Michelle Conlin and Carlos Garcia voted to send the SOI.

“It was eye-opening to hear about the inability to expand programs and electives, because I know that those opportunities are where students are able to find their passions that they will then make a career out of in the future,” said Garcia, who is also an SHS alumnus. “Having the honor to sit here today, I want to do what I can to ensure that those behind me are also able to receive an excellent, quality education. The needs at the high school are much greater now than when I was there, which, to me, underscores why the expansion is so critical.”

A recent review of the district’s buildings revealed that Shrewsbury High School was most in need of an upgrade. The high school was designed in 2002 to hold 1,475 students, which is equivalent to 1,250 students by today’s design standards. The school was over capacity by 2006, and at its peak in 2020, the school held close to 1,900 students. Space is at a premium in the high school, with 99% of classrooms full in any given period; some trophy cases have been turned into offices.

In addition to mentioning how any expansion might help Shrewsbury strengthen vocational-technical programming, Conlin said that “there’s no question whether our high school needs to be expanded — it’s just a question of when.”

She added that, “costs only increase over time so delaying the process will inevitably cost more for taxpayers. This non-binding SOI gives us the

opportunity to have the state pay roughly half of the cost of an expansion.”

Select Board Chair Beth Casavant and Vice Chair Theresa Flynn voted against sending the SOI.

“My reason is purely financial,” said Flynn. “We will need to ask the town for an operational override in the next few years. Without it, there will be significant cuts across town and school services. I am concerned with some people’s willingness — and more importantly, some people’s ability — to pay it. I consider a successful override critical.”

Flynn and Casavant acknowledged the school was overcrowded, and said their votes were not intended to be anti-SHS stances, but rather, indications that more financial analysis and thinking must be done prior to any action.

“Nobody is talking about the scope, what it would cost, and

how we would pay for it. This expansion would be one of our town’s most substantial capital projects,” Flynn said.

According to Flynn, the project would include an estimated 80,000-square-foot addition, roughly twice the size of the new Police Station, and is projected to cost around $140 million. Even if the MSBA funds 50%, the town would pay $70 million, roughly the cost of the entire Maj. Howard W. Beal School, which the district received MSBA funding for.

“Last year I voted to support an SOI. We are now one year closer to needing to ask the community to support an operational override. Our agreement said we would not be back for four years, and we will exceed that promise, but funds are not limitless, and the town is not exempt from the rising costs of doing business,” Casavant said. “In a perfect world, I would say

Westborough’s new stormwater fee to take effect July 1

WESTBOROUGH – After more than two years of development, the town’s Stormwater Utility will take effect on July 1.

A stormwater utility operates much like an electric or drinking water utility. Fees collected from property owners go into a dedicated fund to pay specifically for the work of operating, maintaining and improving public stormwater infrastructure.

All property owners in Westborough with developed land will receive a bill. The fees will begin on July 1; bills will be sent out quarterly.

The fee schedule is as follows:

Single-Family Residential, Tier 1 (impervious area of 500 to 4,000 square feet) – annual fee of $57.66, quarterly fee of $14.22

Single-Family Residential, Tier 2 (impervious area of 4,001 to 6,000 square feet) – annual fee of $115.32, quarterly fee of $28.33.

Expansion | from page 14 yes to everything that has the potential to make our town better and improve the daily lives of our residents, but strategic choices need to be made.”

The ask for an override and funds for the SHS expansion would come at similar times, said Casavant, and although both options are “critically important,” she ultimately chose to prioritize the override.

Though Garcia, Conlin and Samia voted to send the SOI, they said they understood that the project would be a major financial investment. The April 9 vote was just to express interest, and should SHS be selected, there would be many conversations down the road about how — or if —money is spent.

“All we’re doing tonight — and I came back to this — is agreeing to submit an SOI. There’s no sure thing we can get approved. There’s no guarantee,” Samia said. “We don’t know whether we’ll be accepted at all… As part of the process, I’m OK moving forward with it… understanding that this is a first step, and I want to make a decision based on options that are actually available to us.”

“Community engagement is going to be critical when, and if, we approve this first step today. Ultimately, it will be the community that will make the decision on this project,” Garcia said.

Single-Family Residential, Tier 3 (impervious area of 6,001 to 10,000 square feet) – annual fee of $172.98, quarterly fee of $43.25.

Single-Family Residential, Tier 4 (impervious area of 10,001 square feet or greater) – calculate

Other Tier 4 Properties (including condominiums, multifamily (greater than two units), commercial and industrial

properties.

SFR Tier 4 and Other Tier 4 properties – one billing unit per 2,000 square feet multiplied by $4.81 (minimum of one billing unit) for quarterly fee, and then multiplied by four for annual fee. Billing units are calculated by dividing the total impervious area by 2,000 square feet.

The billed amount is determined by the amount of

impervious area on a parcel. The impervious area will not include public property on a parcel, such as a public sidewalk that passes through a parcel.

Impervious area is determined using data from the town’s Geographic Information System. It is the total amount of impervious area on the property measured in square feet.

Some property owners may be eligible to apply for a credit.

Specific criteria must be met, including the existence of an on-site stormwater management system and documented maintenance of the system.

If impervious area is added or removed from a property, the property may shift to a different billing tier.

For more information, visit https://www.westboroughma. gov/294/Stormwater-UtilityInformation.

Church moving in to East Main Street space

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – A former office building at 85 E. Main St. is now part of the Mission of Grace Church.

Based in Gardner, the church is opening another location now that its site plans have been approved by the Planning Board. The church will add about 37 feet of new sidewalk that will connect the front stoop of the building to the existing sidewalk. There will also be a new sign, pathway and sign lights, as well as a cross on the front façade of the building.

Church officials said that services will take place twice a week — Sundays at 4 p.m., and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. via Zoom — with room for up to 100 congregants.

“Two of our families are from neighboring towns and had lived in the boroughs for years. I had come to a similar conviction that this was the place for us, a place where we

could be the most helpful to serve others,” said Pastor David Bodanza. “A couple from Westborough I had known for a long time were very encouraging and helped us to understand the town’s history, its strategic access and its growing population and needs. We just knew we were on the right track.”

Church officials had searched out sites in Marlborough and Southborough, but “nothing quite fit,” Bodanza said.

“Finally, the realtor we were working with said, ‘I’ve got the place for you. It’s brand new, and it even looks like a church’,” he said.

This was the site at 85 E. Main St., which has stood empty since it was built.

“We could not believe how perfect it was,” said Bodanza.

The church signed a longterm lease and began the permitting process last fall.

“The town has been won-

Celebrating 40 Years of Family Dentistry

derful to us,” he said. “So far, we have worked with the building and planning department, the Design Review Board, Select Board and Economic Development Department. Everyone has been so helpful and showed us a clear pathway for permitting and

an understandable process.” The church’s sermons, teachings and music may be found at https://www.youtube.com/c/MissionofGraceChurch.

More information about the church may be found at www. missionofgracechurch.org.

NORTHBOROUGH – National Commander of the American Legion Daniel Seehafer recently visited the Vincent F. Picard Post 234 to meet with local veterans. Seehafer also presented Post 234 with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of the post’s service and assistance to veterans and Northborough residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this photo, Seehafer poses with Commander Edgar Blanchette, auxiliary member Annette Currier and Scott Conner of Massachusetts District 4. (Photo/Courtesy)

Mission of Grace Church is moving into an office building at 85 East Main St. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

POLICE FIRE&

4 arrested in connection with thefts

at Savers in Marlborough

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Four people have been arrested in connection with a series of thefts at Savers on East Main Street, according to Marlborough Police.

The thefts involved cutting the locks off storage trailers and stealing merchandise inside.

On Friday, April 5, at 3:10 a.m., Officer Kyle Skagerlind was checking the perimeter of the Savers building when he saw a U-Haul truck parked behind the building. According to a press release from the department, Skagerlind saw one man placing merchandise into a bag and another hiding in a dumpster.

Police said that both were apprehended. When additional officers responded, police located two women hiding in a storage trailer.

Officers searched the U-Haul and the suspects’ property and found narcotics believed to be methamphetamine, lock-picking tools and bolt cutters along with dozens of credit cards, IDs

and additional merchandise that was believed to be stolen, said the press release.

Police charged Justin R. Generelli, 37, of Worcester, with breaking into a depository; conspiracy; possession of burglarious instruments; trespassing; and larceny from a building.

Kevin Thompson, 38, of Worcester was charged with breaking into a depository; conspiracy; possession of burglarious instruments; trespassing; possession of a Class B drug; possession of a Class C drug; possession of a Class E drug; larceny from a building; and improperly receiving stolen credit cards (four or more).

Trisha Lee Benson, 41, of Southbridge was charged with breaking into a depository; conspiracy; possession of a burglarious instrument; trespassing; and larceny from a building.

Cherisa Gazaille, 39, of Oakham was charged with breaking into a depository; conspiracy; possession of a burglarious instrument; trespassing; and larceny from a building.

3 sought in robbery of convenience store

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH

– Police are searching for three masked persons who robbed a convenience store on Williams Street on the evening of Friday, April 12.

All three persons were dressed in black, and one was brandishing a handgun.

Those having any information regarding this robbery, and/or the suspects, are asked to contact Detective Mark Ney at 508-4851212. The Marlborough Police Department is searching for the suspects in a robbery. (Photo/Courtesy Marlborough Police Department)

Westborough firefighters graduate from academy

WESTBOROUGH – Chief Patrick Purcell has announced that two Westborough firefighters graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.

Firefighters Stephen Walsh and Darab Fadavi were among the 34 graduates from 20 departments who successfully completed the academy’s training program class 319 on Friday,

March 29.

“We welcome firefighters Walsh and Fadavi to our ranks today,” said Purcell. “We are excited to have them aboard and look forward to watching their careers grow within the Westborough Fire Department.”

At the academy, the newest graduates completed a rigorous 10-week course that comprehensively covers all aspects

POLICE LOG

7:09 p.m. Arrested , Michael A. Lyons, 61, of 209 W Main St., Northborough, for speeding in viol special regulation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, possess open container of alcohol in MV.

Thursday, April 4

Grafton

Monday, April 1

10:54 a.m. Arrested, Lia K. Stanley, 26, of 1156 Hill St., Whitinsville, on warrant.

Wednesday, April 3

12:23 p.m. Arrested , Matthew P. Cote, 38, of Keith Hill Rd., S Grafton, for possess Class A drug, possess Class B drug, possess Class A drug to distribute, possess Class B drug to distribute, possession of ammunition w/o FID, possess firearm without FID card (2 cts), trafficking in cocaine 18 grams or more/less than 36 grams, receive stolen property +$1200, possess Class E drug, improper store of firearm, sell/ possess electric stun gun.

Marlborough

Saturday, April 6

4:46 a.m. Arrested, Leonard Peter Galisa, 60, of 24 Heather Hill Rd., Bourne, on true warrant.

Tuesday, April 9

2:24 p.m. Arrested, Joshua Collins McCarthy, 33, homeless, on true warrant.

Northborough

Wednesday, April 3

12:30 p.m. Arrested , Felipe Amadeo Soto-Peguero, 30, of 30 Bicknell St., Boston, for no inspection sticker, op MV with license suspended, number plate violation to conceal ID, uninsured motor vehicle, number plate violation, unregistered motor vehicle, warrant.

of modern firefighting. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, they have gained in-depth knowledge of fire science, effective suppression tactics, and crucial skills such as public fire education, handling hazardous materials and stress management. The program included classroom learning, physical fitness, hands-on skill development and live firefighting exercises.

10:45 a.m. Arrested, Mohammad Yousuf Aman, 33, of 20 Alpine St., Worcester, on fugitive from justice on court warrant.

Friday, April 5

7:19 p.m. Arrested , Degilson Gomes Silva, 41, of 16 Solomon Pond Rd., Northborough, for operator improper use of mobile phone, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, unregistered motor vehicle.

Monday, April 8

6:46 p.m. Arrested , Clauso De Souza, 52, of 123 East Main St., Northborough, for speeding in viol special regulation, fail to stop for police, oper MV with license suspended for OUI/CDL/MVH.

Thursday, April 11

5:46 a.m. Arrested , David Vieira, 29, of 304 Lovell St., Apt. 2, Worcester, for op MV with license suspended, op MV with registration suspended, uninsured motor vehicle.

Shrewsbury

Friday, April 5

10:42 a.m. Arrested, Joshua Cabrera Lopez, 27, of 16 Illinois St., Apt. 2, Worcester, for unlicensed operation of MV, marked lanes violation.

5:39 p.m. Arrested, Michael Anthony Lopez, 34, of 61 Camden Ave., Worcester, for open and gross lewdness, disturbing the peace.

Saturday, April 6

1:32 a.m. Arrested , Robert Gonzalez, 55, of 6 Lincoln Way, Shrewsbury, for OUI liquor, neg operation of MV (operate to en-

danger).

Wednesday, April 10

11:45 a.m. Arrested , Jonathan S. Woodman, 39, of 16 Lakeview Rd., Webster, for poss Class B substance subsequent offense, shoplifting by asportation 3rd offense.

5:29 p.m. Arrested , Giovanni Thomas Carrasquillo, 37, of 31 L Joyce St., Apt. 2, Webster, on warrant (uninsured MV).

Southborough

Saturday, March 30

12:24 a.m. Arrested, Keitlyn L. Benedito, of Main St., Marlborough, for speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUIliquor or .08%.

Sunday, March 31

1:25 a.m. Arrested , Douglas P. De Matos Cardoso, of Pilgrim Ave., Worcester, for marked lanes violation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%.

Wednesday, April 3

1:55 a.m. Arrested , Leonardo Moreira, of Worcester Rd., Framingham, on warrant, and Gislene Moura Dossantos, of Worcester Rd., Framingham, on warrant.

Tuesday, April 9

1:21 a.m. Arrested , Elizabeth G. Alcardi, of Whippoorwill Dr., Shrewsbury, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield.

Wednesday, April 10

1:28 a.m. Arrested, Yachira-Marie M. Maisonet, of Beaver Park Rd., Framingham, for marked lanes violation, unlicensed operation of MV, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense.

Thursday, April 11

4:42 p.m. Arrested , Edward R. Hinterneder, of Woodland Rd., Southborough, on warrant.

Legal notices are also available online at www.masspublishers.org

Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.

SHREWSBURY

LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 5, the Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, May 2, 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 32

(By Petition)

To see if the Town will vote to Amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Shrewsbury by changing the zoning designation of the following parcels from the Limited Industrial Zoning District to the Commercial Business zoning district:

Assessors Map 07, Parcel 044000, Assessors Map 07 Parcel 04100 I, Assessors Map 14 Parcel 01000, Assessors Map 13 Parcel 066000, Assessors Map 13 Parcel 065000, Assessors Map 13 Parcel 051000, Assessors Map 13 Parcel 050000, Assessors Map 13 Parcel 040000, Assessors Map 13 Parcel 043000, Assessors Map 13 Parcel 045000, together with that portion of the property shown as Assessors Map 07 Parcel 041000, Assessors Map 08 Parcel 009000, Assessors Map 14 Parcel 010000, Assessors Map 13 Parcel 039000; and as shown on the Exhibits Labeled Existing Zoning Map Change and Proposed Zoning Map Change for Article 32 as annexed hereto, or take any other action in relation thereto.

ARTICLE 42

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section VII. E - Signs, by inserting regulations with regard to digital signage or to take any other action in relation thereto.

ARTICLE 43

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section II.A - Definitions, by amending the definition of indoor or outdoor farmer’s markets with regard to the allowable ratio of vendors of arts and crafts items at a farmer’s market, or to take any other action in relation thereto.

ARTICLE 44

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, as follows:

In Section II.A Definitions, amend the definition of Mixed-Use Development– Vertical Mix and Mixed-Use Development–Horizontal Mix; In Section III.A Establishment of Districts, insert “Transit Oriented Development Overlay District”; In Section III.B District Intent, insert narrative describing the Transit Oriented Development Overlay (TOD) District as intended to encourage additional smart growth development in accordance with the purposes of MGL c. 40R, satisfy the requirements of MGL c. 40A 3a, and contribute to the Town’s housing growth goals.;

In Section III.C Location of Districts, insert a

new Section VII.X to be entitled “TOD Overlay District”’; and To amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Shrewsbury by adding the TOD Overlay District as shown on the Exhibit Plan on file with the Office of the Town Clerk, or to take any other action in relation thereto.

ARTICLE 45

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section VII - Development of Sites and Location of Buildings and Structures, by inserting a new Section W, to be entitled “Senior Housing Overlay District,” to establish an Overlay Zoning District in regard to Senior Housing, or to take any other action in relation thereto.

ARTICLE 46

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

ARTICLE 47

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 48

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 49

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 50

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Shrewsbury by expanding the Flexible Development 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.

ARTICLE 51

To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section V.C to delete the date referenced therein of “August 2, 1967” and insert in lieu thereof the date: “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 PUBLIC FORUM

The Shrewsbury Community Preservation Committee will hold a public forum on May 6th at the Shrewsbury Police Department, Training Room 1, 106 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

The purpose of this public forum is to receive community input on the historic preservation, affordable housing, open space and recreation needs, possibilities, and resources in the Town for the development of the Community Preservation Plan.

Please see the Community Preservation Committee webpage at www.ShrewsburyMA.gov/CPC or email planning@shrewsburyma.gov to learn more.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

PUBLIC HEARINGS

Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building

100 Maple Avenue

Shrewsbury, Ma

April 29, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Michael Christopher of 377 Shrewsbury St, Worcester, Massachusetts 01604 for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII - Table II to construct a deck thirty seven feet (37’) from the rear yard where forty feet (40’) is required upon property located at 55 Washington Street in the Residence B1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 23 Plot 182000.

April 29, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Tom Paquette of 48 Harrington Ave, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw to Section IV(B) to expand a preexisting, nonconforming structure upon property located at 56-66 South Quinsigamond Ave Unit 58 in the MF-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 38 Plot 003000.

April 29, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Adam Towner of 215 Old Mill Road for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.B to construct an addition thirteen and eight tenths feet (13.8’) from the side yard where forty feet (20’) is required on a pre-existing nonconforming single family dwelling upon property located at 215 Old Mill Road in the Residence A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 26 Plot 108000.

April 29, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Steve Lange of 280 Pommogussett Road, Rutland, MA 01543, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I to construct an addition for an in-law apartment upon property located at 5 Old Salem Circle in the Residence a zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 10 Plot 334000.

April 29, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Peter DiGioia of 40 Superior Rd, Worcester, MA 01604, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV.B to construct an addition eleven and four tenths feet (11.4’) from the

side property line where twenty (20’) feet is required upon property located at 73 Topsfield Circle in the Residence A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 40 Plot 103000.

April 29, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Neil Harvey of 697 Hartford Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I to construct an addition for an inlaw apartment upon property located at 54 Crescent Street in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate Plot 147001.

April 29, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Michele Crouse of 24 Floral St, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI Table I to allow for the keeping of other than customary household pets on a parcel less than five acres upon property located at 24 Floral Street in the Residence A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 29 Plot 068000.

Peter C. Mulcahy, Clerk

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 May 1, 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 April 20, 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.

2014 Ford F150

VIN: 1FTFX1EF1EFA34834

Owned by Mahmud Sahin

2012 Buick LaCrosse

VIN:1G4GD5E33CF208602

Owned by Candida De Jesus C Correia

2013 Toyota Highlander

Vin: 5TDDK3EHXDS244771

Owned by Marlon Brando Calderon Portes

2015 Ford Mustang

VIN: 1FA6P8TH7F5313442

Owned by Brianna Mitchell

Robyn Ramsey

2020 Peace Star AR50 Scooter

VIN: LEHPCB22XLR808249

Owned by John Doe

2006 Honda Accord

VIN: 1HGCM56486A107665

Owned by Nancy M Jimenez Campos

2011 Jeep Patriot

VIN: 1J4NF1GB4BD115028

Owned by Amanda M Molina

2010 Honda Accord

VIN: 1HGCP2F86AA117709

Owned by Bryam Calderon Portes

2005 Honda Accord

VIN: 1HGCM56485A052049

Owned by Griselda C Robles De Leon

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

Publication Friday April 12,19 and 26 2024

Community Advocate.

HUDSON

LEGAL NOTICE

Towns of Hudson (lead), Bolton, Berlin, Boxborough, Littleton, Devens, Stow, Harvard, & Lancaster Request for Proposals –Housing Consultant

The Town of Hudson (lead), Planning and Community Development Department is seeking qualified contractors/consultants to provide regional housing consultant services for the Towns of Hudson, Berlin, Bolton, Boxborough, Harvard, Lancaster, Littleton, Devens, & Stow . A full bid package with specifications will be available Monday, April 22, 2024 at 10:00 AM by email to Pam Helinek at phelinek@townofhudson. org. Questions/RFI’s may be directed to phelinek@townofhudson.org. All bids are due to the Community Development Office by May 30, 2024 by 1:00 PM. Any contract issued in response to a successful bid must be approved by the Hudson Select Board. As lead community, the Town of Hudson reserves the right to reject any or all bids, and reserves the right not to make an award on this contract if doing so is in the best interest of the participating Towns.

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF HUDSON

At its meeting of April 8, 2024, the Select Board voted to make the following changes in the Town’s Traffic Rules and Orders:

Under Article IV, Stopping, Standing and Parking, Section 11 Library/Fire Station Parking: Public Parking with a two-hour limit in the area behind the Fire Station shall include the eighteen (18) marked spaces in the middle of the lot to the south and west of the fire station. The southwestern most space of the eighteen shall be designated as “handicapped”. Also, public parking in this area shall include three (3) spaces facing east along the Assabet River Edge. Delete the following text two-hour and replace with the following text three-hour Under Article IV,

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

Albertine, Robert former longtime resident of Marlborough

Aspinwall, Patricia of Southborough

Backlund, Gerald formerly of Southborough

Barclay, Betty formerly of Westborough

Bessom, Gertraud of Southborough

Clermont, Stephanie formerly of Shrewsbury

Conti, Ann of Shrewsbury

Ellis, Melinda formerly of Grafton

Engle, Ilda of Westborough

Goehrig Jr., Robert of Shrewsbury

Gertraud A. Bessom, 85

SOUTHBOROUGH - Gertraud (“Trudi”) A. Bessom passed away in the presence of family Sunday afternoon. She was 85. Born in Germany on July 16, 1938, to Fritz and Elise Winkler, Trudi spent her early life in Waldkappel, a small village in Germany, before moving to America in her late teens.

Hamilton, Gordon formerly of Marlborough

Hench, John of Shrewsbury

Jacques, Norman of South Grafton

Mathes, Dale of Southborough

Ricardi, JoAnne formerly of Westborough

Riel, Barbara formerly of Grafton

Ritter-Waltrup, Patricia of Hudson

Thomas, Danny of Hudson

Tucker, Arthur of Marlborough

Vautier Jr., John of Northborough

Warshaw, Cathy of North Grafton

Wasson, Donna formerly of Hudson

Trudi is survived by three of her children, Cheryl Satrom and her husband Dan, Susan Nelhuebel and her husband Norman, and Jeff Bessom, her four grandchildren, Matthew and his wife Melinda, Derek and his wife Suzanne, Nicholas and his wife Lauren and Cara and her husband Ian, as well as her great-grandchildren Liesel, Lenore, Violet, Margot, Miles,

Pierce and Owen. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and son, Eric Bessom. Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.

Ilda Engle, 73

WESTBOROUGH - Ilda Ruiz

Engle, born April 5, 1950, in San Antonio, Texas, peacefully departed this life on Easter Sunday morning, March 31, 2024, at Beaumont Nursing Center in Westborough, Massachusetts after bravely battling Parkinson’s disease and vascular dementia.

Ilda and her husband James shared a special, loving relationship, even before their marriage on 5.6.78. Rarely apart, they brought much joy and love to each other and to their family. Ilda was a wonderful mother to her two daughters, Elena Moskal and Alisia Engle, and son (inlaw) Jakub Moskal. Ilda had a special relationship with her grandsons Mateusz, Sebastian, and Maciej Moskal - who all brought so much joy to her life and to our family. They so dearly loved their Abuela. Ilda shared that loving, spe-

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

cial sibling bond with her sisters Elva Ruiz, Dee Holcombe, and brother Gilbert and his wife, Linda Ruiz, Ilda’s sisterin-law.

Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Gerald R. Backlund, 90

PLYMOUTH - Gerald R. Backlund, age 90, of Plymouth, formerly of Fairfield CT, passed away on Sunday, March 24th, at Stafford Hill in Plymouth. Born in Framingham MA on February 4, 1934, son of the late Alfred and Dorothy (Jones) Backlund. Jerry grew up in Southborough MA, later moving to Clinton where he graduated from Clinton High School.

McCombie and her husband Joe of Indiana PA, and Doug Backlund and his wife Dawn of Duxbury. Grandfather of Paige, Joe III, Claire, Caleb, Brad, and Dan. Great grandfather of Joe IV and Dawson. Brother of David Backlund, and the late Philip Backlund.

Cartmell-Davis Funeral Home of Plymouth assisted with arrangements.

Donna Wasson, 67

PEABODY - Donna Wasson (Lindo), age 67, of Peabody and formerly of Lynn, passed away Sunday, March 31, 2024 following a lengthy illness. She was the wife of Robert Wasson with whom she shared 46 years of marriage.

Born and raised in Hudson, she was one of 11 children and the daughter of the late Richard Lindo and Marjorie Lindsay.

In addition to her beloved husband, Donna was the loving mother of Brenda Hill and her husband James Hill Jr. of Lynn, David Wasson of Danvers, Eric Wasson and his wife Jamie Wasson of Peabody, Jennifer Doucette and her husband Scott of Lynn and Robert “Bubba” Wasson and his wife Elizabeth of Sommersworth, NH, Grammy to Curtis, Destiny, Jakob, Jason, Arlin, Alyssa, Mallory, Hailey, Brian, Bentley and Payton and sister to Judy, Debbie, Tina, Lisa, Terri and Sherri.

Goodrich Funeral Home of Lynn assisted with arrangements.

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Thursday night didn’t exactly go the way Noah Basgaard imagined — but it was still plenty good.

In his first start of the season, the Saint John’s senior lasted just 2.1 innings on the mound after suffering an arm injury. Still, Basgaard — the team’s cleanup hitter — stepped into the batter’s box moments later and connected with the first pitch he saw. The ball left his bat, pierced through the heavy fog, and roughly 340 feet later, landed beyond the Pioneer Baseball Field fence.

It was a tumultuous threeinning stretch for Basgaard, but his blast wasn’t just a feel-good story. While the Pioneers were tied 3-3 with the intra-town rival Shrewsbury Colonials on April 11 before Basgaard’s at-bat, his solo shot gave Saint John’s an all-important one-

run lead — a lead they would never relinquish.

“That’s probably the most emotion I’ve ever seen out of [Basgaard],” said first-year Saint John’s Head Coach Casey Cummins. “There’s not a bigger spot than to come out — you’re frustrated that you can’t finish

the job on the mound – and get a hold of that one first pitch. It was such a big lift from a senior who realized, ‘I’m done contributing on the mound today, so I’m going to do it with the bat.’ It was incredible.”

Saint John’s ultimately won the rivalry match against

Shrewsbury to the tune of 8-3.

Coming off an 8-4 win against Malden Catholic less than 24 hours beforehand, the Pioneers started the scoring early. Led by doubles from leadoff hitter Jamie Herlihy and Jack Forgues, Saint John’s plated three runs in the first inning. With runners on second and third, the early-inning scoring was only stopped by an incredible defensive play from Shrewsbury second baseman Colby Coghlin, who snared a line drive for the third out.

“We didn’t start off well. We made three mental mistakes in the first inning, which is not good against any team, but especially against a team like Saint John’s. We dug ourselves a pretty deep hole,” Shrewsbury Head Coach Lee Diamantopoulos said.

Despite the early three-run deficit, the Colonials worked their way back into the ballgame. After JJ Ferguson – who reached base safely four times in the game — was hit by a pitch, Shrewsbury started to rally in the third inning. A walk

here, a single there, and before long, the Colonials had scored two runs. Luke Harrington would soon walk with the bases loaded, knotting the game. After Shrewsbury evened the score, Saint John’s spent the next few innings playing with fire. Still in the third inning, the Colonials loaded the bases once more, but the inning ended on a check-swing strike-three call. In the fourth, Shrewsbury leveraged a single and two walks into another bases-loaded situation — but Saint John’s forced two quick outs and escaped. All in all, Shrewsbury left 11 on base throughout the game.

“We showed some character and came back and tied it up. We had our chances to tie it, even take the lead. We’ve just got to get through. It’s not due to lack of effort or our attitude… We just have to take advantage of our opportunities next time and I think we’ll have a different result,” said Diamantopoulos. “We definitely left a lot of guys on base… Next time we’ll hopefully find holes and it will be

Saint John’s Desmond Hayeck slides safely into second base.

Saint John’s celebrates during its game against Shrewsbury. The Pioneers beat the Colonials 8-3.

(Photos/Evan Walsh)

Saint John’s volleyball controls Algonquin in four-set victory

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – It was a full week for the Saint John’s Pioneers volleyball team.

On Monday, the team headed to Westwood to face Saint John’s Prep. On Tuesday, the team hosted Agawam. Come Thursday, Saint John’s went into Boston to meet Boston College High School, and on Friday, April 12, the team completed the four-game, five-day stretch by facing off against Algonquin Regional High School at the Coaches Pavillion.

If the Pioneers were tired, they didn’t show it. Saint John’s defeated the Algonquin Titans to the tune of 3-1, improving their record to 2-3. Algonquin, on the other hand, moved to 1-3 after the four-set loss. The Titans also came into the game having competed less than 24 hours earlier.

Saint John’s broke away early, riding the serve of junior Phillip Vignally. In the first set, the Pioneers won upwards of 10 consecutive points while Vignally was serving; over the course of the game, the middle blocker served 18 total times and launched four aces, also accounting for four blocks. The Titans had no answer for Vignally’s serve, and Saint John’s took the first set 25-8.

“It’s huge. We’ve been try-

Baseball | from page 22

different. Today we didn’t.”

A trio of Saint John’s relievers — Zaid Moghrabi, Thomas Papagni and Forgues — and plenty of well-executed defensive plays held Shrewsbury at bay.

“I always say that our pitchers need to realize that we have a tremendous defense behind us. Yes, there were a couple spots here and there, but… it was just an incredible job… We’re thankful to be a deep team,” Cummins said.

With the Pioneers ahead 4-3, the Colonials spent later innings trying to manufacture runs, several times attempting to bunt runners over. Shrewsbury’s Ryan Walker, who pitched four innings in relief of starter Michael Urbanik, kept the game close, but Saint John’s broke through in the sixth inning. The first five runners reached base in the inning, and the Pioneers plated four, making the game 8-3.

ing to get him going all season long. We’ve been struggling just a little bit. Finally getting him going was absolutely huge for us. That’s been one of our bigger problems this year; the consistency of our middle. Getting that today was much better,” Saint John’s Head Coach Dan Seaver told the Community Advocate after the game, speaking of Vignally.

The second set was more of the same dominance, and the Pioneers took it 25-11.

While the Titans — one set from defeat — could’ve folded, they played tough throughout the third set, giving last year’s state semifinalists all they could handle and more. Algonquin jumped out to an early 17-8 lead, and although the Pioneers would furiously attempt to come back from behind, the Titans held them

off, winning the set 25-21. It was the breakthrough the team had been waiting for. The players jumped into each other’s arms to celebrate.

Although Saint John’s still led, 2-1, it was Algonquin that had the momentum.

“We tried a couple different things that might help us down

the line. We’re a young team — we only have three seniors — so trying to see where pieces are going to fall in the next two years is big for us. We’re just trying to see what might help us out, and making that little change, we thought we were just going to cruise. But anytime you make changes, it’s going to be a little different,” said Seaver.

Algonquin continued to play with energy in the fourth set, but Saint John’s returned to form. The Pioneers won the set 25-14, ending their busy week with a satisfying 3-1 victory.

“We’re getting there. Weeks like this are really tough because we didn’t get in the gym at all to practice. We’ve struggled with consistency… It’s a lot for these guys. Coming off last year, we have a lot of goals. We just need to get our head straight. Games like this show us we can do well, but if we don’t, other teams are going to come back and beat us. I love games like this. It challenges them,” Seaver said.

Two Saint John’s players stretch to block the ball.

Algonquin libero Alex Qi serves in the first set. (Photos/Evan Walsh)