✅ Public Safety Hires & Changes
— Benjamin Grasso hired as a full-time Police Officer ($32.36/hr), pending academy completion.
— Nicholas Newman hired as a full-time Police Officer ($39.16/hr).
— Hillary Murray transitioned from full-time to part-time Police Officer ($38.40/hr).
— Paul Guerin’s resignation from the Police Department accepted.

✅ Election Workers Appointed
— Approved election workers for the 2025-2026 season.

✅ Wetland Protection Fund Allocation
— Authorized $6,043 from the Wetland Protection Fund for FY 2026.

✅ Licenses Approved
— Live Entertainment License issued to Pine Lake RV (30 River Rd).
— One-day Liquor License approved for Altruist Brewing Company (Aug 22 @ Pickle Ball U).

✅ Battery Storage Opposition Supported
— Board voted to support Oakham’s petition against a 180 MW lithium battery storage facility and endorsed Bill HD 4557 requiring local approval for such projects.

✅ Contracts & Reappointments
— Otis Elevator Company contract renewed (3 years, $7,559.52 annually).
— Frances D. O’Connell reappointed to the Cultural Council (term expires Sept 16, 2028).
— Donation from Photonis Scientific Inc. accepted (Altair 4 XR Multigas Detector valued at $1,125).

✅ Policy Update Deferred
— Temporary Dock Policy update tabled for further review.

Department Reports – Conservation & Planning
Conservation Agent Lauren Vivier and Town Planner Jean Bubon delivered progress updates. Vivier highlighted tree loss issues (white pine & ash) and ongoing public outreach efforts. Bubon discussed the impact of the 2024 Climate Act on local permitting for clean energy projects, warning that future state-level projects may override local control if town bylaws aren’t updated by spring 2026.

Town Administrator Report (Dr. Robin Grimm)
— Commended Fire Department for recent responses at Teddy G’s and Sadie Green’s.
— Provided updates on Adopt-A-Spot improvements, opioid survey design, and trails use survey at local hotels.
— Continued property negotiations for Holland Rd trail access and Streeter Beach appraisal.

Route 20 Median Maintenance
Selectperson Mary Dowling raised concerns about weed overgrowth on Route 20 and urged action if MassDOT fails to respond. Chair Goodwin asked the TA to follow up with DPW to ensure maintenance is completed.

🌲 Improved Conservation Outreach
Public “Coffee & Conservation” sessions continue to connect residents with environmental resources.

🚓 Expanded Police Department Staffing
Two new full-time officers and a part-time reassignment will help maintain coverage and reduce overtime.

⚡ Local Input on State Projects
The Board’s support of Oakham’s battery storage petition signals regional collaboration on environmental oversight.

🏗️ Community Preservation
Funding from the Wetland Protection Fund will support habitat and drainage maintenance projects.

✅ Two new police officers hired; one officer resigned.
✅ Wetland Protection Fund allocation approved.
✅ Town backed Oakham against the battery storage proposal.
✅ Otis Elevator service contract renewed (3 years).
✅ Temporary Dock Policy update tabled for revision.

✍️ Written by The Town Minute — making town government easier to follow, one meeting at a time.

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.