🗳️ Key Decisions & Votes
✅ National Grid Pole Installation Approved
— The Board granted National Grid permission to install one new utility pole on Arnold Road to serve a residential connection (4-0 vote).
✅ Stormwater Bylaw Updated
— Approved amendments to Chapter 8, Section 14 of the Stormwater Management Regulations to meet current state standards.
✅ Block Party Permit Approved
— Granted to Mary Bridget Burns for 13 Stoneybrook Drive on August 23, 2025.
✅ Town Website Contract Renewed
— Authorized Town Administrator ( TA ) Robin Grimm to sign a two-year agreement with Civic Plus ( approx. $20,553 ) for continued website management and modernization.
✅ Regional Dispatch Presentation Received
— CMR911 representatives and Sturbridge public safety leadership outlined benefits and cost savings of joining the regional center; Board tabled a vote pending further review.
✅ Event Rescheduling Approved
— Authorized rain dates (Aug 27–28) for Altruist Brewing’s Concerts on the Common series.
✅ Resignation Accepted
— Nichole Dahrouj’s resignation from the Police Department effective June 10 acknowledged with thanks for service.
💬 Major Discussion: Regional Dispatch (CMR911)
Overview
The Board heard a comprehensive presentation from CMR911 representatives and local public safety officials regarding joining the Central Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communication Center.
Key Points
The CMR911 regional model would modernize dispatch equipment and reduce staffing gaps.
Projected annual savings of ≈ $170,000 could offset the regional fee; capital cost avoidance ≈ $7 million.
State 911 grant covers 100% of costs for three years, then phased down (75% year 4, 35% year 5).
Board Perspectives
Chair Jamie Goodwin: Cautious about commitment; requested legal review of withdrawal rights and funding risks.
Clerk Mary Dowling: Skeptical of reducing local control; wants proof that response times would improve.
Selectperson Mary Blanchard: Requested written copies of all CMR911 documents for further analysis.
Selectperson MaryLou Volpe: Leaning supportive, noting consistent support from Fire and Police Chiefs.
Outcome
➡️ Vote tabled to September 2 meeting for additional data and Town Counsel review.
🏗️ Community Impact
🚓 Emergency Response Efficiency
If approved, regionalization would enhance dispatch coverage and cut equipment replacement costs.
🌳 Beautification Progress
DPW continues coordination with MassDOT on Route 20 median maintenance following earlier concerns.
💻 Website Upgrade to Benefit Residents
Civic Plus contract renewal will improve site accessibility and online service delivery.
🎶 Community Events
Concerts on the Common rain dates approved to keep the summer series on track.
🔍 Quick Recap
✅ National Grid pole petition approved (4-0).
✅ Stormwater regulations updated.
✅ Regional dispatch presentation received; vote tabled to September 2.
✅ Civic Plus contract renewed.
✅ Concert rain dates approved.
🗓️ Upcoming Meetings & Follow-Ups
Subject | Date & Time | Location | Add to Calendar |
|---|---|---|---|
Select Board – Regional Dispatch Vote (CMR911) | Sept 2 2025 · 6:30 PM | Veterans Memorial Hall |
🗂️ Resources
✍️ Written by The Town Minute — making town government easier to follow, one meeting at a time.
Disclaimer
The Town Minute is an independent publication not affiliated with the Town of Sturbridge or any municipal office. While we strive for accuracy, errors or omissions may occur. For official and complete records, please refer to the Town’s approved meeting minutes or watch the official meeting recordings on the Town’s website.
