001Good evening and welcome to the August 20th to 25 Ashland Select Board meeting. Uh call this meeting to order at 7:05. Uh this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live by WACA TV and livereamed on Facebook. Participation is available using the Zoom video conferencing platform. Any disruption with the video conferencing platform will result in the platform being shut down and that event of any disruption broadcasting will continue on WACA livereamed on Facebook. So uh at this time um I'd like to have citizens participation. If there's anybody in the audience that would like to come up and talk to us about something that they have on their mind, feel free. And those that are uh watching on Zoom, just raise your hand and we'll call on you. Goodness, Sony didn't raise his >> spoke too soon.
002Okay, Mark, unmute yourself, please. >> There you are. Good evening. Can I ask why no camera? >> We're on camera. Oh, I don't know why >> you guys are. >> I think it's a security thing, right? We haven't allowed >> since the Zoom bombings. >> Okay. Did you hear that explanation mark? >> We've had some Zoom bombings. >> Yeah. So, we're It's a security measure at this point. >> I'll know what you look like. >> Yeah. Oh, >> and we can hear you loud and clear. So, you have the mic, sir. >> Okay. Actually, he's on the headphones home here, so I can have it at home, too. Okay. Money 119 Main Street. Uh, this one has I know on the agenda, you got a c you got a a capital committee agenda on the
003agenda tonight, right? Mhm. Yes, we do. >> Is is that going to be to talk about as a appointed people for it or just a discussion of the committee itself? >> No, not yet. It's just a discussion as to what the committee is for and um at some point the the board will make a decision uh to resurrect it andor request uh applicants to apply via uh the talent bank form. Okay. And I would I have got I got one thing about um I was at last ZBA meeting. I spoke up there about the uh about the mill building project and I emailed uh senate come president Karen Bilka and got a response from her about how I feel what's going on with the ZBA and maybe other boards and I emailed all throughout the
004town hall other committees including select report and town manager. Did it get received? >> I didn't. >> No, no, we we did not receive anything. >> Familiar, Mark. >> Huh? >> If you got a response from uh the president's office, uh you may want to forward that along to us. That way, we can all read it and have a better understanding. >> You did forward it to us. I did. They gave it gave it to the town manager, the select board >> and um >> did not did not receive it. I can tell you that I was going over my email. >> I mentioned this to Michael on Monday. I received no town I received no email to my select board address. >> Yep. >> From Friday night to Monday morning, which is very unusual.
005>> Yeah. >> Lucky. But I usually get something. So, I I don't know if there was something that happened, a glitch or something, but depending on when you sent it, Mark, I don't know what to say, but I had nothing from like Friday at 6 or 7 o'clock till Monday morning, >> but I did send it I >> Well, Mark, we'll have to look into that. I did Mark, I'd say reforward it. >> I know. I >> Can you send it again? >> I see seed it to the people. >> Okay. >> Try it again. >> You don't have to do that right now, but when when we have when you have a chance >> when you're when you're off mic. >> Yeah. >> When you're off mic. >> But thank you for letting us
006know that. Um I I I did and I did that um it was last week like Wednesday or Thursday something like that and um then I kept it for a couple of days on my computer and then I deleted it off my computer. >> Mark um >> so I don't have it. >> Okay. Michael Michael did some research just now and um the email that you sent was the wrong email address >> including his we maybe Mark why don't you why don't we follow up offline because we have some people waiting um on this Yep. >> Is that better? >> Okay. >> It would it would be if if you did actually did actually get it. Now I I don't have it on my computer anymore. Not >> Oh, okay. It basically was saying that
007um I was upset of the board and the the uh and the state how how they're handling this town and about the 40Bs being built and stuff like that. And I I talked about it's says it's got to be a lot of traffic and a lot of taxes being built just because the 40 bees being in this town. I I I went in pretty good detail. Good paragraph detail. >> All right. >> But if you didn't if you didn't get it, you didn't get it. But I know I did send it. >> Okay. >> All right. If if Michael got it, he'll forward it to us. Mark, >> it sounds like Michael might have received it. So, he'll forward it and make sure we see it. But I also just want to say thank you
008to for reaching out um regarding the 40B issue. It's a, you know, it's a big issue in town and um, you know, this. So, thank you. >> We all set, Mark. >> I I'll thank you. Yeah. Thank you, Colin. And and if the town manager can't forward, if he does have it, he can forward it to everybody else. Then that would be very appreciated on my side. Thank you. >> You're welcome. Thank you. Thank you for bringing that up and making us aware of it. Appreciate that. Thank you. Um, it's a little 711. So, we're a minute behind schedule. Sorry about that. Um, we have something that uh we like to do. Uh, it's announce the recipient of the community heroes award and uh to provide that award uh to the uh recipient. I would
009like to call on Candy Wilson to come up to the podium. >> Waiting for it. Awesome. [Laughter] So, good evening. I'm here on behalf of the Council on Aging. Um, I am actually the director of the Ashland Senior Center and I'm really proud to be able to present this to a dear friend of mine, Diane Hansen. I'm going to try and get through this without crying. Um, the Ashleyan Council on Aging elected Diane Hansen as the 2025 community hero. For many years, Diane generously supported both of our senior community and the town as a whole through her dedicated volunteerism. Diane was a regular presence at the senior center, always with a ready smile and a listening ear. She was a liazison for this Ashley and Springwell supporting the memory cafe and served as a member
010of the council on aging for over 10 years. Diane often volunteered behind the scenes and enthusiastically maintained the cent's country closet of donated attire ensuring that all clothing was not only ready neatly displayed but also was cleaned and pressed. A special point of pride for her. For the benefit of the greater Ashland, Diane helped the town hall team prepare for elections, was an election clerk, and participated in town meeting all for many years. In each of the efforts in every venue, Diane could be relied upon to do whatever was needed with a with a sunny disposition. Diane was the kind of person who made everyone she encountered feel seen and cared for. And she lived a life of kindness. She was a compassionate volunteer and exceptional friend. Diane persevered in optimis with optimism through a
011long battle with cancer and throughout her discomfort she remained deeply involved in the work of lifting others up. Her quiet strength inspired everyone fortunate enough to know her. The Ashlin Council on Aging joins Dian's family and friends, mourning her recent passing. Our town has lost a remarkable woman who we will miss her greatly. Her vibrant spirit lives on. The community she helped shape with the grace and generosity submitted by the Ashling. I would like Maria, would you like to say a few words? You can go right up to the podium so that way everybody can hear you. Thank you. I know it's going to be difficult, but we appreciate you doing that. >> Diane was so excited, honored, humbled to receive this. She wanted her family nearby. She loved the senior center. Working at the
012town hall, she just it was part of her life along with her great nephews was um she lived a full life. She fought hard and um time to give up the fight. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you. And your family. Thank you very much. Yeah, they have big shoes to fill with several people that we've lost over the past month. And uh right, yeah, it's it hasn't been easy for this town, but we will persevere and we will remember what they've done. And hopefully those that fill that void will do just as well, have the same spirit and the same dedication that they all had. So, thank you, >> Joe. I just I just wanted you know to say um you know that Diane Wright she's someone who really embodies uh what this community
013is about in terms of uh giving of themselves and uh so I just want to thank you all for um you know lending your sister and aunt uh to us uh to the community and and be very grateful for what she brought to our community because it is um you You know, it is just so important to a community to have people who are so unselfish like that. And so, thank you. >> Anybody else? >> We're good. Okay, Mike. Yep. Absolutely. I just I I feel compelled. I have to say this. Diane was I've known her now for 12 years and um I've never seen someone endure so much pain and yet you would you would never know it just by talking to her and just by her attitude. She was always giving not just
014of her time and her effort but just her spirit and um you know it's it's called a community hero award and and we think about heroes as you know police or fire or people you know who put their lives on the line. Diane was really a hero. Just again her amazing spirit, what she gave and I just I I'll never forget her positive energy after everything she was going through. It was just it's really remarkable. So, thank you. >> Thank you so much. And Mrs. Rancone, I didn't recognize you. Oh my god. I watched this young lady grow up and I walked right by her and I didn't even recognize her. So that's >> what we said. >> I I did not I did not recognize and I'm staring at you. Oh my god. I
015know who that is. Wow. You growing up young lady because that's how I remember you. The fifth graders from from that point on that that's in my mind that's that's who I see. I see a fifth grader there. Right. So, anybody that was a teacher would realize that, oh, yeah, you're right. There, you know, there you are, little girl mom and everything go. So, fantastic. Nice to see you. Sorry, didn't recognize you right away. You should have said, "Hey, old man, take your glasses off. Take a look." >> Who knows? Maybe she didn't recognize you either, Joe. >> Well, that's right. I lost 52 pounds. So, you probably said, "Where's that fat man? He's not here anymore." I can't make fun of myself. and you know, I'm no good to anybody. So, nice to see
016you all. Thank you. Okay, we're off and running. Um, next on our agenda is to discuss the capital improvements committee. I know that we uh wanted to bring that up at our retreat at some point. So, Brent Oh, I'm sorry. That's right. >> Got added. >> That's right. That's right. How can Well, you know what? I'm going to be honest with you. It got adjusted. >> And this is the adapted one. >> No, it's No, there was another updated one. >> There's another Monday. >> I'm going to say myself. I printed all this material up. >> So, Ron, what? Come on up. >> Yeah, please. Thank you. >> All right. I'm going to pinch it for Joe here. >> Um, so for the Ashlin fishing game, um, the item on our agenda is to extend
017the serving area for the following events. um for a fundraiser on September 6th that the extended serving area will include the fenced in area behind the function room and a portion of the softball field. The event is scheduled from 5 to 10:30 p.m. It will include a live band. Uh a request uh from Ashland Fishing Game to extend the serving area for Fall Fest on September 20th, 2025. This will uh include the area around the pavilion and the softball field. The event is scheduled from 5:00 pm till 11 p.m. and include a a live band that will stop playing by 10:30. And I think this third one >> the third one I think is Oh, the 13th. >> Mine has like two. >> Yeah, there's two that have the same date, but it's not. Yeah,
018they're different ones. >> Oh, okay. um and to extend the serving for a 50th birthday party on September 13, 2025. And the extended serving area will include the area in front of and beside the pavilion. And that event is scheduled from 5:30 to 10:30 and we'll have amplified music via a Bluetooth speaker. Okay. All right. I think I got it. Okay. >> You did you did the one in for the 20th, correct? >> Y all three of them. Y all three. Good. Okay. So sir, just a point of clarification, you provided us all different maps for the for for each for each event. Would it would it be in for the future to make it a little bit easier and cleaner? And I think I'm just speaking on myself. I don't know how the board
019feel about this. They use the same setup for every event that you have. So when you I'll I'll use TJ's as example. When the marathon comes, they they provide a map to us and it's basically the same thing. And so when you ask for a request, if it's the same setup and style, we don't have to go individually. We can just do it one and then we can go in the consent agenda and save it. So >> little time and effort for you. >> I think what's happening a different scenario with us is >> each individual person is asking for a certain thing. They're showing us where they want it done, how they want it done, and we're trying it's >> we're trying to accommodate that. >> So, it's a whole different scenario than TJ's
020would be in the same spot every time, the parking lot. >> So, you know, whatever they have >> lined up, they want to do it in certain areas. And we just try to make sure we got it in a >> totally contained area. Y >> we're not letting anything go out outside. We're even having the gates changed and the new fence put up so that we can a new fence section I should say should say to accommodate so we can keep everything contained so we can keep an eye on everything >> in that one area. Yeah. >> Okay. It won't be anything outside of our total fenced area. Nobody can get out of that. >> Okay. >> All right. >> That's the whole idea between the different >> each person wants it set up a
021different way. It's so that's >> moving forward. Maybe we can try to space where people you know that you know go moving forward if people are asking >> the fall fest thing worked out real good and it's a large area so that should be the main way we do it each time but if the people want it different we have to come to you and >> that because that's what they're asking us >> okay >> yeah so I'll admit I'm the one who asked because this wasn't our consent agenda but then I was noticing I'm like well it's a little different here and and it's like well it's the same and I'm like no It's different. So, >> specifically for the September 6th one, it is um it's Marco Rufo's uh >> prevention thing and
022they specifically wanted kind of contain it, make it a little bit smaller back, >> right? >> Um they didn't need a large area. >> So, we're trying to accommodate them for for what they need. And there's going to be kids and stuff, so they wanted access to part of the field, but not the entire thing. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> So, >> but moving forward, yes, I would say pavilion is is normally where where we do the bigger events, >> right? >> This just happen to be a little smaller and they kind of I think wanted a little more personal, >> more intimate kind of thing than Yeah. >> They did also want to >> the silent auction type thing. >> So, the right because a lot of the other stuff >> it contains it much
023more tighter down that end. We don't even have to be down the >> Right. Because the two other events are including the pavilion at the other end of the field and not and not the building. >> Exactly. >> So that's the difference. Okay. >> Okay. Yeah. I mean I >> I don't have much discussion. I think the the maps were very clear. So that was very helpful. But like I said because it was different each time was why I was like I don't want to just have this on the consent. And I appreciate you being willing to come in and explain >> as tight as >> So I don't have any issues with it. I just wanted to have that discussion. >> I'll just open up the board. Anybody else have any additional questions or
024comments? >> No, we're good. Then I'll entertain a motion. >> I move that we approve the three events with the maps and times and information as presented. >> Second. Okay. All those in favor? >> I. >> That's 5. Congratulations. Thank you guys very much. >> Thank you. You've been a very accommodating for your uh your fields for for >> very great events coming up, you know, >> especially with the Rufo family. So, >> have have the additional things and what you've been able to do been successful and good for the fishing game. That's that's >> each time it gets better and better. So, that's >> that's great. That's good news. Well, you guys are making it happen, too. >> Do you want to advertise what the what the other events are? I know Marco Roafo
025is is a that's a fundraiser for >> Marco is a private 50th birthday party but the one on the 20th is fall fest and that's raising funds for the girls it's field talker and something else for the Ashlin >> girls high school sports. >> Yep. Nice. >> Great. >> That's awesome. >> And everyone's welcome. >> Thank you. >> Except we'll we'll see a few of them walk crash that party. >> Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you very much, guys. Good luck. Appreciate it. Thank you. >> Okay. I apologize for skipping over. >> Okay. So, we're under old new business. Uh capital improvements committee. We had it u we wanted to discuss that at the retreat, but uh we briefly commented on it, so we'll bring it up tonight. Randy, I know you wanted
026to to talk about this with every would love this. So, I'll slant you off first and we can move right along. >> Um, so this was mostly a request from Makita. No, no, no. That's okay. No, it came through Makita to me and Okay. Then to you. >> Um, so I don't know if Makita wants to do you want to kick this off or do you want or do we just want to have a discussion about what what the capital improvement was? >> Yeah, I think I think just a discussion about what it was. Um, there have been some inquiries about what happens in the future. So, if we could just kind of >> just talk about that a little bit and and because we didn't get a chance to a few weeks back. >>
027Okay. You want to give a little history on the uh capital improvements committee as to why, you know, what was going on and why it was dissolved and what what we're at right now >> and what what it did, what the purpose was. So, um, and I'm not necessarily sure when it made it into the bylaws, but I know for the longest time we didn't have one. And then when the previous town manager was here, uh, he formulated it. Um, and so I think we had one going on for like two or three years. Um, and well, I'll just explain a little bit about what what the purpose was. Um it was to look at operational or departmental capital. That's what is on the bylaws. Um it's an advisory group to the town manager. They
028make a recommendation through the town manager capital. U you know a pri prioritization and and capital plan. Um unfortunately um I think there was uh some discontent among some people in the committee. Um and so a number of them resigned um and it was never reformulated again. And so around the same time we had uh the Collins Center actually came in and helped us develop a capital like process uh with like a scoring mechanism and things things of that nature. Um and so we've been using that since then uh where we have different uh department heads part of it. Katherine's leading it up now. Before it was Jen. Before that it was me. And um so we have the schools involved. We have DPW. We have a number of other departments that have operational capital
029needs as part of this. Excuse me. Um and so that's really kind of the general general upshot of of the group. And >> who did who who did you say helped um get it >> organized? >> The previous town manager. >> So was it Tony? >> But then after but then after you said then you said that >> people kind of went their own way or whatever and then I think you put some kind of a matrix in place or or that or >> Yeah. So, so what happened was kind of around the same time that a lot of people resigned from the capital improvements committee and so like they didn't have a quorum to where they could they could meet. Um so Colin Cynic we we brought them on to help us develop a
030capital improvement like plan and like a a process essentially because it was a really rudimentary process what we had before but they have like a scoring you know mechanism matrix things like that it's pretty extensive um it's evolved over the years as I mean I think that happened in 2019 um and so Yeah, that's kind of where where things are right now and what happened and >> where it is. >> And it's a it's still in the charter though, right? >> It's in the bylaws. >> In the I'm sorry, it's in the bylaws. >> So, but we currently don't we so the basically everybody resigned. >> Didn't have a quorum. >> Correct. >> And so you had to do something. So that that's where you got this prioritization process in place so that you could
031keep things moving along. >> All right. >> Yeah. And so what we do is we um we work with like our our group to come up with a capital plan present usually the fincom looks at it uh first and then we present it to the select board. Um yeah and so that's kind of the the process. So what's interesting is in the charter the last charter that was approved in 2018 there is a program called capital improvement program which is part of the budget process and the capital committee was a bylaw and I was just trying to find it and I couldn't right so our charter and our bylaws have a little bit of a disconnect um so that I think is something we need to look at and the time we had a chart.
032The last time a charter was approved was in 2018 and I've mentioned this a few times and we were behind. We're supposed to be reviewing our charter every five years. So we really should have done it two years ago but I always say co sort of stuck a toe and stuff so it didn't happen. Um but I think this is one of those issues that yes people have brought up that it should be you know based on the bylaws we should have a committee but if you look at the the um the charter it has it as a comm you know as a capital improvement program that's managed by the town manager. >> So I think our c I think our charter has to be reviewed our bylaws have to be reviewed and we have
033to put in place something >> where they they make the same recommendation. >> Yeah. Uh because it seems like they're not they're not aligned right now. Correct. Doesn't sound like that to me. >> A disconnect. >> Is it? Yeah. So it sounds like I mean I was going to ask like so you know what are the next steps here? It sounds like >> you know something we have to take a look at. >> I personally think the next step is to look at the charter and look at the bylaws >> and decide which way we're going to go. >> This also came up as part of the comp plan process. It's actually one of the strategies and I think I know one of the things we wanted out of the comprehensive plan process is to
034actually have that at town meeting and have >> basically the town you know >> decide right >> you know basically endorse you know the things that were in there. Uh my suggestion would be to have that process go through and make sure everybody's in alignment. >> Oh yeah. >> And u the town's in alignment and >> and then then start that process like you're talking about. >> Yeah. I mean I I definitely think we don't I don't think we should do the charter review until the comp plan process is done because as you said, Michael, there are things in the comp plan that I think will require us to look at the charter and bylaws and how certain things are happening. So, let's finish the comp plan process, let that be approved at hopefully at
035town meeting and then from there say, okay, how are we going to address some of these goals that we have as a community and I think one of them will be a charter and bylaw review to match some of the things in the comprehensive plan. >> We I have mentioned it in on the charter review >> y >> last committee and it was uh you know it took us a long time to get it done but I mean we fine comb that that whole chart. >> Uh I don't think that has to be done this time around. >> No, >> but it needs to be tweaked in some and here's here's a fine example that this needs to be tweaked with some of the bylaws that we currently have that they're not they're not working
036cohesively together. So if we can pick those things out, it may be a little easier process instead of the four fouryear process that we went through to get that charter review done >> because that will scare people off and wonder. >> So again part of the process periodic charter review commencing in the year 2010 every five years um >> uh such a report shall be so the appoint they'll be appointed by the board of selectmen and this is how old this charter is. It still says board of selectment and that has never been updated to select board. >> We did make that >> not well not in the one that I found on on the website >> because that was one that's one of the first things we did. That was one of the first
037things >> Joe the did the decision to make the name select board did not happen until after the full charter review process was completed. >> I understand that. But at the same token when that was done a hold of Roberta and Robera said they were gonna we were going to make that change. >> Okay. The copy that I found on the website is it says anyway that's not that that's neither here or here. The board of selectment shall hold a public hearing on the reports recommend. So we have to >> you know the recommendation is that we create a committee to review it. But again, I don't think that should happen until after the the whole comp plan process is complete and then we move forward with the the charter with the um bylaw with
038the charter and bylaw review. >> So with so a time frame would be the um the comprehensive plan will be voted on in >> November. >> Okay. So maybe >> with the holidays coming up maybe after January 1, we bring this up again >> and start that process. >> Does that sound reasonable. >> Yep. >> Okay. So, maybe at a second uh meeting in January in January, we start that discussion and >> open it up for people and and make changes that need to be made. >> Yep. >> Okay. >> All right. Any any other additional comments? >> No, this this was tremendously helpful just because like I wasn't really familiar with some of the history around this, but I've been getting a lot of questions around this. And just one other one other comment.
039>> Precedence of charter. This is in the ch again. >> Yeah. >> Where provisions of the charter conflict with provision of town bylaws, rules, regulations, order, town meeting votes, and acceptance of general laws, the charter provisions shall govern. >> Y. >> So the bylaws need to be >> and this has a date of 42918. So if it was updated after that, the updated one is not on the town website. >> So we should >> I'll check a little better on that. Okay. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. >> Appreciate that. >> Yep. >> Okay. >> Any other comments, concerns, Randy? Good. >> Definitely helpful. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Um open the BAA community grantfall uh grandfall round uh with submission due September 30th, 2025. So, uh, Claudia and Brandy, do you any other comments or
040things you want to provide additional? >> Um, no, not really. So, what we'll do, I know Susan um runs point with getting all the the grant submissions, so we'll put something up on the website, I assume, >> um, opening up the the the grant round um, until the end of September. And then if I'm I'm you know >> I was going to say are you willing to still do it the two of you for the fall? >> Yeah, I'm certainly willing to. If somebody else wanted an opportunity I'd be willing to but I'm absolutely willing to >> whatever whatever works. >> You guys have done a great job. >> I'll say you guys have been doing a great job. I'd be more than happy to allow you to continue. >> Y mess with success. >>
041That's a If it ain't broke, don't fix it. tough tough job giving away money. >> Yeah. >> Um I would say like if the the submissions are due at the end of the at the end of September, we'll probably plan to have the decisions done by the second meeting in October. >> So does that work for everybody? >> Yeah, absolutely. >> That works for me. So um I'll make a motion to open the BAA and community grant ball round um with the submissions due on September 30th. a second. >> All those in favor? >> I That's 5 Z. Okay. So, the grant >> period is now open >> for those who are wishing to uh provide uh additional information. Make sure you get all that paperwork in by the 30th of September. >> Michael, maybe
042this week in the your newsletter, you could just put a link um for people to >> to find to find the application form. >> Yeah. to find the application and and maybe hopefully from on that same place review the criteria. >> Criteria. Yeah. Okay. Moving right along. We are looking for individuals interested in running the 2026 Boston Marathon. Anybody interested should complete the form on the town's website. Submissions are due by September 30th and the names will be drawn at random. Who who does the selection? Who puts their names? Who? But >> usually I know >> isn't it Michael? >> That's cool. >> So they're So they're due by September 30th and they'll be drawn on September 30th or they're due by December 30th and they'll be drawn >> to do it. >> Okay. >>
043Stop start making them. Yeah. And just to clarify, so there's going to be 15 um >> bibs available for in the lottery. >> There was 25, but like the we had >> we had 22 and then last year it got bumped up to >> 24 or 25 >> but then >> and we had 15 available because we give 10. >> We do Nord. Yes. >> So just I'm just clarifying that that's process. There's 10 open for >> no 15. >> I mean >> 15, >> right? 10 voted Nord. >> Yeah. >> If we still get the same number. Have we received our number of bibs yet? >> We have not. >> Okay. Next next on our agenda is um boards and committee reappointments. Would you like me to read them or that's something we have
044to do? >> We move the list. Okay. >> Yeah. Has everybody had the opportunity? Yeah. Go ahead, >> Claudia. >> Um, so these are the reappoints. There's a couple that just go to the 20 Oh, 26. Never mind. I'm in wrong. Don't just ignore me. It's okay. >> Some of them are one year. >> One year, right? >> That's why. >> Well, you're still on vacation. >> Because they're living in the future. >> We're talking about the budget. >> Yeah, I can see that. >> I have one question, Susan. Sometimes we put on here like the appointment to the Metro West Regional Collaborative and MAPC >> and I'm not seeing them. I did not put them on because that was not something we discussed, but we could certainly add it to the next agenda if
045you would like. >> I mean, it's pretty straight. I mean, yep. >> Unless someone else wants to step up to I'm I'm still willing to be both >> opportunity to talk to you. >> So, I mean, unless someone else wants to be the select board representative to the collaborative or to MAPC, I'm willing to do that. So, >> as as as you said to me, I am very handy with what you're doing. So I would I would just >> So I would just say that we make sure on the September agenda we just make the appointment that I continue to do Metro West Regional Collaborative and MAPC. >> MAPC. Okay, that's fine. Thank you. >> Yeah. >> All right. So >> I move that we accept the list of board appointees and thank all those
046who have uh stepped up to be reappointed. >> Is there a second? >> I'll second that. >> Thank you. All those in favor? I >> that's 5. Congratulations to everybody. We appreciate your volunteering and your time and effort in supporting the town throughout the many different committees and groups that are being served by you folks. >> And just um for any for any open um open slots on any committees, we have those up on the website. Um, and we would definitely encourage folks um to check those out and to apply, put in a talent bank form to to join one of the open positions on on one of our committees. >> And I just want to >> Oh, do you want you go ahead? >> I was going to say that. >> Go for it.
047>> And just to remind folks about uh the there have been some process improvements implemented since probably the last time folks have have looked um we discussed this back in June, but um before you uh submit Even if before you submit your talent bank form, we recommend that you attend two meetings >> uh and make contact with the chair before you put in your talent bank form so you understand what the committee does and what the commitment is before you formally apply. And I just want to follow up with that that Makita and I met today. So we're going to ask to be put on the first agenda in September because we have another couple of changes that we'd like to start instituting. We're going to talk to Susan about it. um just to make
048things a little cleaner and the process a little more straightforward. >> And >> yeah, >> and this is this is a great way these positions are a great way to maybe find something that you have a personal interest in and and uh help to make our community a great place. >> Yep. It's always nice to have people that that have the interest to apply for those position instead of being think that they they're obligated to. But if they want to do it, then that's even better. So, um, we appreciate that. >> Yes. >> And again, they may they may think it's something different and you know, when you go to those meetings like Makita suggested, it's always a great idea to do that. I know that's one of the things that Susan has always emailed
049them the folks back when they send in the talent bank form is make sure you attend a meeting or two. You know, ask the questions that need to be asked to see if it that group works for you, you know, and if it meets what you want to do. So, >> exactly. And I'll say that recommendation came from Susan, but also from our committee chairs when we met with them this spring. I think everybody thinks that's a great idea just so that folks understand. Um and uh hopefully uh get even more enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve the community. So >> absolutely. >> Yeah. >> So that's great. Uh just a couple of quick uh things. We voted that in already. Um just some of the vacancies that are available. We have some time. So
050I just want to quickly run down. Affordable housing trust is uh one three seat uh open uh term is open and an associate member one year is open. Community preservation committee conservation committee one uh three-year seat. Council on aging two three-year seats. Cultural council there are two three-year seats. Uh design review one seat and that's appointed by the planning board. So fin committee two seats and that's appointed by the town moderator. uh open space and recreation one threeyear seat uh sustainability committee and storm water committee one three-year seat on each uh committee and town forest committee there's one threeyear seat so if those are something that you people may be interested in uh please uh contact one the uh chairman of any of those committees and I'll go on the website town website to see
051when they're meeting and join the meeting either via Zoom or come in uh depending upon if it's uh a meeting that is is not held in Zoom. So please, we'd love to have you there. Okay. Next agenda item, special town meeting warrant articles are due by Saturday, September 27th, 2025. Now, we opened it up at our last meeting, and I don't know how many warrant articles have been submitted here. So, I'll turn that over to Katherine. So far, there have been 11 articles. >> Okay. Any citizen articles? >> I'm sorry, I had to ask. Did I >> There there could potentially be one. >> One. Okay. >> All right. Um, and so I know that's being reviewed by legal counsel. >> Okay. All right. Good. Any other questions, comments, ladies? Okay. All right. um discuss
052the kid of Fenwell car show and if the board would like to be a sponsor. The event is scheduled for uh Saturday, September 20th uh from No, it's not September 13th. >> September 13th, right? The rain date is the 20th. Um so, um I was there last year. Uh the year before was a great it's always a great time to walk around and see these classic vehicles and uh I mean I I have no problem recommending uh that we sponsor a one of the uh the vehicles as a as an award. It's always nice to walk around and see all these tasting taste taking uh hobbies that these people have and this is expensive hobby too for that matter. Some of these cars are well worth the money and welldesigned. So, any discussion on that?
053>> Will you just um explain what the sponsoring a vehicle means? >> Yeah, they you No, we're not sponsoring a vehicle. Well, it's it's an award. It's an award. It's an award, >> right? To a vehicle. And um I think the last couple of times I've won was near and dear to my heart was a 67 GTO and it was pressed out. It was beautiful. almost all factory uh materials. They're still original factory materials, which is just incredible. And uh the other one was a Model T that just for some reason it had a rumble seat in the back and it must have missed that when I was growing up. A rumble seat. >> Yeah, a Model T. >> You got a Model T? >> No, no, no. I was going to say, wouldn't you
054have missed that by a few years, Joe? A Model T with a rumble. >> That's probably the only car we could afford. back in the day. >> You know the one you had to crank. >> Yeah. >> So, I'd like to move that we sponsor the card the kitty card fenol card show the $250. >> Um I I I'm going to go in the morning, but I can't be there to judge. So, if someone else wants to I think Joe, if you'd like to do special criteria for judging or we just >> squat for a rumble seat. >> Well, yes. Yeah, there's a different way. Yeah. Either that or just have GTO's in front of me. That's all. That's the V67 though. Classic 67. No, it's it it's when you go and take a look
055at them, I can't even begin to describe the painstaking work that these owners put into their vehicles. I mean, it's just it's incredible the detail that they put in. So, you know, you look around and and you see they have a list of things that on the side of the vehicles, what they've done to the vehicle, how how they have it, and the original paperwork that goes with it. Uh so, It's it's interesting. It's actually a history lesson to me. >> It's a great event and the number of cars that they get a ton >> is unbelievable. The the field is packed. Yeah. I mean, unless it's a rainy day, but otherwise they do so well and it's such a it's a fundraiser for a great cause. >> It is absolutely and uh Pete does
056a great job. committee does a wonderful job along with all the volunteers that are out there >> and Lady Rose was involved in that too, you know, helping out and everything and >> just it's just a wonderful wonderful event. And it was hot. >> It was >> last year. Oh my word. Was it warm >> unlike Ashley Day? >> Unlike Ashlin Day. >> Sorry. >> No, that that's quite right. That's quite I just hope it doesn't happen to you folks in October. That's >> But yeah. No. So, okay. So, uh there was a motion made for 250 the sponsor. All those in favor? We still need a second. >> Sorry. Okay. Thank you. >> All those in favor? >> I >> Thank you. >> And Joe, I'm happy to have you present the the winning
057car for >> You want to come with me? Maybe you can sit in the rumble seat. >> No, no, no. I I I'll try to be there if I can, but I >> is not going anywhere with that. It's just >> Yeah, this is not going south. I I was Have you ever been on a rumble seat in the back of a car? >> I can't say. Okay. All right. Just want to let you know. >> Yeah. >> Never mind. >> It's no different of being in the station wagon unbuckled in the back. >> Okay. All right. We're good. >> While you're driving down the road while you drive driving down the road. >> It is time to pull it back in. >> Okay. So, we're happy to support the Kofen wall car show and
058and the the fundraiser for for the American Cancer Society. >> Absolutely. It's a great It's a great time. It's a great time and and there's a lot of food there. The lines are there. have a couple other food trucks and stuff and it work. This is great time. Just a great time for everybody. And thank you to uh Fenwell for having that and and for Pete organizing. Great job. Okay. Uh discuss and vote to create a gift account for the Ashland Day 2025 celebration. And I will turn that over to uh Brandy andor Claudia. Um, so you know, I feel like I have an act to follow there with the rumble seat. But, um, anyway, so, um, as folks probably have heard by now, we are working to, um, towards an October 4th Ashland day
059with a rain date of October 5th. Um, there's lots going on. um which I'll kind of give an update on that in a bit. But um basically initially we had you we had it, you know, this is sort of a a a partnership between our board, the um Ashlin High School student council and the Ashlin Business Association. And um so initially we had set this up as a fundraiser through the Ashlin High School for their student activities account and that was the mechanism that we were using to to fund raise in conversations with the um with the school. It made a lot more sense to because of the broadness of Ashland Day and it's not specifically for just for the schools. it's a much broader audience to um move that over to the town of
060Ashland and have that be um an account under the the town versus schools. Um so what we are planning to do is to um to open up a gift account which is the same like like we have a select board gift account. This would be a separate gift account specifically for Ashlin Day 2025 one year only. Um this is the plan for now. So, um that requires the select board to um to vote to approve that um before we can bring any funds over from the um from the school side over to the to the town of >> can just give a point of history with respect to that aspect. Um when Ashan celebrated 150th, the aend day committee came in front of the board at that time um because this was a townwide event
061and it affected you know every business, every resident in town similar to what's going on right now. And to make it clean, we asked to do that. They set up a special for the 150th. And when the event was over, it was relinquished back to the original committee, the National Day Committee, and then they just follow it up through, you know, that's probably something. >> So, couple of >> Yep. >> cutting out. Okay. >> Okay. >> So, a couple of comments questions. So I guess this my first question would the the goal here is to set this up quickly so that we can accept funds for Ashland Day 2025 and then the plan would be after that to determine the path forward for the Ashlin Day or Ashlin Town Committee or whatever it is. Um
062now here's the question though as it's coming as a gift account to the town. This is then not a non it's not a nonprofit. Correct. >> It's not a nonprofit through the schools either. >> Oh, okay. >> It's Yeah, it's not considered They're not considered a >> They're not a 5013C. Okay. Um Okay. And then so the followup question and it's probably follow-up discussion after the event is um doing the work to help the Ashland day committee regain its 5013 status or create a new committee to to get it into a 5013 status. >> Um so that the work that's being done can be continued and people can feel you know a lot of people if they want to donate they want to do it to a nonprofit. Y >> and we don't have this
063the time isn't there to do it for this event, >> but I think um in a little research that I've done and talking to Makita and a few other people, I think that it would make sense for us to help and step up to get Ash either the Ashlin Day Committee or create a new Ashlin Town Committee or something to get the 501 status 5013C status back. >> So to to to clarify or to clear to clear up some of the things that you just provided that 5013C that the Ashland day committee has is has been suspended because of the lack of activity. We did we haven't had an Ashland day a legitimate Ashland day though we had it and it rained uh since 20 2019 because of co and two major storms and then
064we we had it last year and unfortunately it didn't uh it didn't pan out because we had to shut it down as quickly as we started. So I don't consider that to be you know an event. We spent money. We didn't make money but we spent money. So, but so we're in the process of getting that suspension or getting the paperwork in to allow that to reinstate the 5013C. So, I don't want you to try to reinvent the wheel if it's already it's already in there. Okay? >> And then when that happens >> and we celebrate our 40th, >> I know that the current Ashland Day committee has no problem handing the reigns over to whoever wants to take take that take that bull by the you know, because 40 years is is long enough
065and I hope you folks take it along. 40 years works for you. >> Okay. >> So, if that works for, you know, for you folks, >> that's that's our intent. >> No, it sounds like it sounds great. It sounds like uh things are moving. It sounds like, you know, y'all are on top of getting that the 501c3 stuff moving along and thinking about the future, I think, you know, which is a conversation for after we get through 2025. So, And you're going to tweak it once you once you you're going to sit down and okay have like we have a meeting and reassess what you did what could be better what you know what could be avoid having issues or whatever you know >> yeah not not a problem. >> Okay. So I move that
066the select board create a special gift count gift account just for Ashlin Day 2025 and that it be revisited once the event is completed. Is is there a second? >> Second. And I just had a comment. >> I'm sorry, Claudia. >> Um I just, you know, I just wanted to comment that um a couple of things. First, I think that Yolanda, when you said either get the 501c3 back or start a new one, I I think that your comments, correct me if I'm wrong, but you were just saying whichever is easier. >> Correct. >> Right. Yeah. Not not >> Oh, no. Yeah. It's just if is it if it's easier to reinstate >> or is it easier to start? >> There is some work I again we did a little research. There is some work
067to reinstate it at both the state level and the federal level. >> So it's if that's the easier way then go that route or if creating a new committee and a canoe one 5013C going that route >> you know whichever is easier and quicker. >> Yeah, >> I think should be should be looked at. >> I just want to clarify that. And then um the other point that I just want to make which I think is more important right is that you and some others uh started Ashland Day well almost 39 years ago now um and that you know it's been a remarkable community event that has carried on for 39 years and so I think um that the the fact that so many people have stepped up wanting to participate wanting to help make
068this happen is an indication of what a great event it's been and how um >> People look forward to it and how important it is to really the fabric of our community. So, so I just wanted to recognize that and and thank you and others who really, you know, back in the early days, I remember, you know, I wasn't doing anything except raising kids or whatever. And I I uh and I looked around and saw you and others uh that I knew a little bit that were working hard to to make it happen. And you did for many many years. And uh >> it's it's a it's a labor of love. It's not anything, you know, >> but the fact that so many people have stepped forward is such an indication of >> which which
069surprises me because I'm surprised they didn't come forward and ask us, you know, if you need help, we're here. >> That's sometimes people have to realize that there's desperation before they step. I think for a lot of people they didn't realize, you know, it's one of those things, right? If it keeps going and you don't >> actively reach out and say, "Hey, we could use more people, >> they're not going to step up." I think what happened this time is >> because it was like, "It's not happening." People are like, "What do you mean it's not happening?" >> Well, when I went to that meeting, and I have to tell you, and I I think I said it to you folks when you were there, just sitting there and watching the enthusiasm, it brought back
070that I was in in a time capsule, 1986, sitting around table at the DPW when there were 30 people there and saw that enthusiasm back then as I was seeing that enthusiasm over, you know, at your your meeting and and I I said to Claudia, I I I literally I teared up and I I'm not I'm I'm not afraid to say that. It was just brought back some great memories and it was and it was and it was a wonderful time. It was a wonderful wonderful uh event and you know I hope that the weather's good. Hope the uh the rain makers uh you know I'll have to say a prayer to Bob up up there to make sure that it doesn't rain. >> Yeah. And and before Yeah. Way before because you want to
071sit up on Friday. You don't want to do it on Saturday. >> But long story short anyway. So we're good. >> But we have to vote. We we >> So we we second it. We're good. >> Okay. All those in favor? >> I So that's 5. And then I guess the other thing is do we then as a board want to take money from our gift account >> to sort of seed >> this new account >> which is which is a great segue into the next agenda item. >> Yeah, >> of course. >> That is a great segue. So um if is it okay if I keep going? Okay. All right. I just want to make sure. Um so in your packets I I had put together a proposal our group had put together a
072proposal. Um, >> okay. Um, just to kind of outline what we are hopefully looking to do for Ashlin Day this year. As we talked about, it's it's the collaboration between um, you know, our board, the Ashlin High School student council, um, specifically Josh Wixer, who's um, like awesome to work with. Let me just state that for the record. Um and um the Ashlin Business Association, Chrissy Reynolds from Anmarie's Dance has been um a really fabulous partner. And um so and Claudia, the four of us kind of came together after we had um we had talked about this a little bit at our last meeting, but um when we met as a board for our retreat back in July and we were talking about events, we were talking about how um you know, maybe one day
073the Ashlin Day committee wouldn't be able to do Ashlin Day and Joe was like, "Well, we didn't have the funds to do Ashlin Day this year, so there's no Ashland Day." So that made me very sad and Claudia and all of us that that love Ashland Day because again like Claudia said, you really kind of have built this legacy over >> 39 years and it there's something really special about Ashland Day. We do a lot of events here in town and a lot of really great things here in town, but Ashland Day is something that people it's so near and dear to people's hearts because their kids grew up going to Ashland Day. They as kids grew up going to Ashland Day and then stayed in Ashland. Um, we've had people reach out to us
074that have just like are are willing to help above and beyond because it is just such a special a special place. Um, Ashland Day is just such a special >> day. Family events. >> Absolutely. >> reunion. So, um, so the four of us kind of put out the word that we were looking for funds and we were looking for volunteers and, um, as Joe had mentioned, two weeks ago, we met at Dolce De Lee and, uh, on a Sunday morning and in the summer and 25 people showed up, which like for anyone that has um, been involved in anything in town to have 25 people want to help um is huge. So um and then after that there were others that couldn't make the meeting that reached out to us. So we have about um
075a list of about close to 50 people that have wanted to be involved and and to help where they can. So um the date is going to be Saturday, October 4th. We're also trying to plan for a rain date of Sunday, October 5th and at Stone Park from 11 to 4. Um, we're going to do a lot of the same things that everyone loves about Ashlin Day. Um, we are asking for people that dis we we just started reaching out to people about booths this last week. Um, we are asking anyone that does a booth to make it to either offer an activity or game or something that is very um engaging for the community. Um, we are um we love our businesses here in town and we want to support our businesses. Um, we
076do want to try to like make sure it's a very interactive um event. So, one of the things that we did was we implemented the framework that um Josh Wixer did for Pumpkinfest in 2022. And um you know, we're like I said, we're encouraging booths to have an activity or game, but we are also doing sponsorships um for businesses and individuals. Um things that we are doing are like if if a business um donates at, you know, $250, we recognize them on signage and our website and um and things at the event. $500. We're also putting names and logos on the backs, t-shirts, um which will recognize the businesses that that donate. um organizations or businesses that donate a thousand dollars will also have their name and logo attached to a specific attraction. So that
077will be there will be a need bank bouncy house. So um which isn't isn't a bad thing. So it's a great thing. >> Yeah, I was about to say it's a great thing. >> It's a great thing. Um we're also we're also crowdfunding individuals. Um, we've had this out now for less than two weeks that we've been actively soliciting donations. And just to kind of give you an idea of what um the the ground swell that we're seeing, we have almost $2,000 in online donations. >> Um, plus the commitments from um businesses that we've received both verbal and we have some checks and things. um we have approximately 5,500 in those commitments. So right now we're looking at um approximately if everything goes the way we we think it should about $7,500 in um >>
078halfway there >> in in about a week and a half. So um which is not bad. Our goal is to get to five uh to $15,000. And so one of the things that we are asking for um is that um that we're requesting that the select board donate $1,500 from our gift account, the select board gift account towards Ashlin Day this year and um seed that new gift account that we just voted to approve. And um and the select board will also have its own or or >> I don't know if you want to put that on >> or some or some sort of >> maybe you know a pie in the face. >> We were talking about that that we should do that. We should totally do that. >> Do you know how many
079people people will pay good money or >> dunk tank that they they would use their tickets at the select board booth to >> Yes. >> Yeah. to throw pies. So dunk tanks can be you know the hardest part about a dunk tank is not getting wet. It's you. It's the beating that your body takes falling in the water. >> It's a lot. I don't I don't see myself >> and it's also like beginning of October which you don't know what the weather's going to maybe maybe pies in the face is probably a better option. >> So Sabrina, I just have one question on your on the proposal that you sent us. Yes. >> And um >> so one of the things that I think has always been great about Ashland Day is that it's been
080volunteers. >> Yes. And one of the items on here is that you are going to work with it says um on the site map and layout that you're going to work get some help from Kevin Langmire. >> Yes. >> From DPW. Um, >> so I I was sitting I was chatting with I chatting with I don't know there was someone I was and she is an event planner and she and I were talking that we could I mean unless unless unless Kevin is not doing it as part of his day job um there are people I think who could do that for you unless there's a reason to go with Kevin. >> So he's only helping out with the site map. So, one of the things, so Susan's also been really helpful, too. um officer
081Manny Tusano who just did this public safety night. Um we Susan connected um Officer Tuscano and myself and he brought this huge map like an aerial map that um that Kevin had done for him >> and like it helped him literally physically map out locations and things on there. And so um Kevin just reached out to us and just said, "Hey, how can I I'm happy to help and we'll look at a smartboard and we'll map it all out and we'll you know we're it's pretty cool and um so it's really just doing that site map that literally the map so that he's >> okay I I just want us to be I mean I understand that this is the select board doing this yeah but we are volunteering >> and I don't want there
082to be too too much creep that town staff >> is doing a lot of work for Ashland day No, >> we as a board at our retreat have said we don't want that to happen. We want Ashland Day has always been run by volunteers and done by volunteers. >> So I don't I I personally don't want the creep of town staff. I mean I if it's if it's quick and if it's easy and he can just do that, that's great. But I don't want us to then moving forward I don't want the committee to think that they can continue to rely on that. Okay, >> that would be my that would be my recommendation because it's been done without their assistance. >> So that's all >> it's pretty easy. >> Thanks, Catherine. It's pretty easy
083for for Kevin to whip something like that up. In fact, he loves doing it. >> I was going to say and I'm sure >> he probably does it at home. >> I'm sure he does. And you know, I I and I great I think it's great. I just want to be very conscious because of the creep that we've seen from other events that we as a board need to have another conversation about. I want to make sure that doesn't happen here. That's all. This has always been done by volunteers. I mean, yes, we have to pay police and stuff to be there. That's one thing. Um, but from another perspective, I don't want anyone on town staff feeling like I have to do this and it's going to take away from other dayto-day things that
084I have to do. I I think that's fair, Yolanda. You know, I think just pursuant to what we discussed, you know. So, >> I just want to add to that it that is something that's been discussed openly that that's not something that we want to see happen that um we want to be very very careful. Um you know, and if that wasn't so fresh in our minds or we hadn't been consciously having conversations about that, then maybe it would we would have done things differently in this instance and we would have creeped. But because it we have been um very conscious about that of late fine it's been >> and and without with all with all due respect with what you said I mean the person that's speaking right now is the one that set
085up the field every year. So, if there's any concern or what, you know, I'm a treasure trove of information and >> maybe it would be great for you to work with Kevin and and uh you know, maybe he can use his technical skills and you can use your history and put them together and come up with the perfect map. >> Yeah. I mean, I don't know how you want it set up >> type of deal, >> you know. Um I don't know how many police you're going to have, right, >> by that time. So, I mean, >> all that comes into play. I mean, we had a food tent at one point. I know there's no tent. You're going to have a bunch of people to have their own tents and stuff. I don't know
086where you're going to have sitting sitting arrangers for people to sit and eat because if you don't have a location to sit and eat, you're going to have rappers and crash all over the place if you have somebody. >> Yeah. I think I think we're going to have that. >> Yeah. And and the other thing I think that's key too is the is where the generator gets set up. And and >> the generator has to be fenced off because that that plug setup that we have >> that that costly $3,000 to get that set up. >> Yeah. Mr. LCroy is volunteering his time >> um to take he's willing to >> um >> as he does for us. >> He's already gotten a quote and he's um willing to come and set it up and
087and break it down or and uh so >> he'll need help with that, but it's it's rolling out that that that cable the expensive. >> Yep. >> So you you want to make sure that nobody has you know you have one person that stays responsible for that because that's that's key. You don't want people running around and touching that all up, but anyway. >> Okay. I move that the select board take $1,500 from their regular gift account to put into >> Can you hold on one question? Does that does that supplement >> the ball grant application form or is this something? >> I think this is separate. I don't think we have to go through the grant process. >> I just wanted to make sure it's the select board gift. You know, we have this
088account that we as a select, you know, just like we give it for volunteer breakfast. >> I just in our holiday. >> It's the same account that we just gave $250 for the >> for the kitty fen. Yeah. Okay. Yeah, that's good. >> Okay. I move that we se take uh $1,500 from the Ashlin Select Board gift account and put it in the special Ashlin Day 2025 gift account. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> All those in favor? Hi, >> that's 5 Z. >> Congratulations. >> Hey, thank you. >> Just stop going to church and make sure it's today's a nice day. >> Thanks for don >> So, >> and I saw that Ann Marie's Dance Center has donated money as well. >> Yes. Um and we we just got a commitment. We
089got a couple big commitments this this last week. Um so, um Brian Donghue from Any Fence has given us $1,000. Um, Needm Bank is sponsoring us for $1,000. Nice. >> The Ashlin Lions, we heard. >> Oh, yeah. >> $1,000 from the Ashlin Lions. >> Um, let's see who else. Um, >> uh, 126 self storage. Main $250. >> So, um, and we're seeing like, um, Doran is going to is is for is, um, >> sponsoring us for 500. I've heard Lucky Farms 500. So, we're we're getting there. I had a just as a just kind of just um just the sort of the excitement around this. I had um met with the team over at the Metro West YMCA last week >> and talked to them about talked to them about this and it's not like
090in their wheelhouse to really give money because they're in the process of um >> looking for money and raising funds for the new site but um they're very excited about like the um the thought of having a presence at Ashlin Day and really >> like put a booth up thing. >> Yeah. So, what they're going to probably do, so they're going to get back to me about like official partnership like things, but um they were talking about bringing their they have this refrigerated van that says healthy starts here and with the Metro S YMCA and they're talking about bringing the van um and maybe as a as an activity um you know doing some um demos and some things with kids to teach them how to make healthy snacks. >> That's a great idea. >>
091And like some >> that's a big that's a big part of their of their mission is healthy foods and nutrition. So that's great. >> So you know stuff like that and they're looking for and then you know have it be as as a way for them to be a touch point about the new site and answer questions. >> So the Lions are also committed to have their food trailer. Yes. and they do their golf ball drop every year and they've committed to doing the golf ball drop >> at the at Ashland Day again. Yeah. >> So, um so those tickets should be available soon. That is a fundraiser between the Ashlin Lions and the Ashlin Fire Department. Um and they're going to do a some few a few a few some they're going to do
092fewer golf balls this year because they haven't always sold all the tickets. So, I think it's going to be instead of 500 golf balls, it's going to be 200 golf balls. And I think it's five bucks a ticket. So, every ticket represents a golf ball. So, and half of the proceeds go to the Lions and half the proceeds go to the fire department. So, if you're interested in a golf ball and being part of the golf ball drop, you can reach out to the Ashlin Lions. Um, Lion Dock. >> Yeah. Lion Do Yeah. Yeah. Julian. >> Julian Doctor. Yeah, >> but it is it's really cool like how like this is the the only the only um the only thing is like we've got a very tight time schedule. Um we've got like five weeks
093and so um we'll put something in your newsletter this week, Michael, with the website and the link that people uh are able to donate. That would be amazing. Um we're offering things for individuals for donation, too. Um, uh, we're going to have yard signs printed that basically says proud sponsor of Ashland Day 2025. We're going to have magnets. We're going to have t-shirts. Um, so it's going to be it's going to be a really great great community um, event. And so um, check out our website and donate if you can. And if um if anyone out there is interested in a booth and hasn't connected with that with us yet um feel free to reach out. And we have a couple things coming up. Friday night we will be at Ashlin after dark over by
094Needam Bank with the table for um for Ashlin Day. And on Sunday we are meeting again um our next meeting for the the larger group. Um, I'll send out a reminder, but um, Sunday morning, 10 o'clock, belchce de leche. Um, and we'll be farming out more tasks for folks to um, to pitch in and help. It's kind of like an all hands on deck because we've only got a few weeks to go. >> And believe me, it's quick. >> Yes. >> Comes up quick. >> Yes. >> But thank you. And, you know, >> Oh, that's good. >> This is going to be a this is going to be a great event. >> You have you have a theme similar to a a country fair type of deal, you know. I know that Isabel Harrison always
095was a promoter of make it a you know country tide fair type of deal. So sounds like that's what you guys are doing. >> It'll it'll be a good time and and we appreciate like you know all the all the support you give us and and the Ashlin date committee. It it will help >> otherwise otherwise like we wouldn't be able to do this you know. So it's it's it's all good stuff. So >> okay seeing that I have the wrong agenda I know that we have a consent agenda that we have to vote on. Is there a second? >> Second. >> All those in favor? >> I. >> That's good. I don't see anything. Is there Are we going to town managers reports right now? Okay, good. I have the right one then. Okay.
096Update on community aggregation program. Mr. Michael, >> remember to turn my mic on. Um, so I provided you uh with a memo about the uh new aggregation rates that we were able to secure uh which will go into effect um December of 2025. And just um for everybody's information right now actually our aggregation program rate is actually a little bit more than ever sourced. So we were able to get it down a little bit. Um so right now so let me back up. Um, one of the things I've really wanted to try to do and I think the board has really been supportive of this is try to get additional options for people to ch u if if they wanted different choices uh for aggregation and so we were able to actually work with DPU
097and get that done. Um, so the standard product that everybody is would be enrolled in um is actually 25% more class one wrecks above the state minimum. So what does that mean? It means it's more it comes from more sustainable sources. Uh particularly wind energy that is located in New England. Um that is the difference between class one rex and different classes. Um so it's actually just our standard product is a little bit cheaper than ever source right now. Um and then also more sustainable than what Massachusetts requires. Um there's also a cheaper option which is uh I guess you could say more uh brown. It does meet the state minimum requirements but um a little bit less sustainable if you will than the standard product. Um and again that's a little bit cheaper. That's
098uh 13 uh cents 13.7 cents. Um and then there's also what we're calling a premium option which is 100% mass rex. um and that is uh obviously a little bit more expensive. So um this is also for a 35-month term. Um so it provides obviously some price stability uh throughout uh throughout the length of the contract and then um obviously people will have we'll put in plenty of information as well as colonial power leading up to the change over where people will have an opportunity to switch you know either go to Eversource opt out and go to Eversource or opt into one of these other products as well. Um, so >> billing still comes throughource. >> Yeah, the billing still comes through Eversource. Uh, if you ever have a question about who your energy supplier
099is, you'll see it right on the bill. You'll see the delivery charge and then you'll see the supplier charge. Um, and it'll say under supplier charge who the who the supplier is. Um, so the it's going to be with Diny Energy. Um, and then one more thing that I didn't include on the memo because we're still um we were still finalizing it when I put it together, but um working with Colonial Power, it looks like we are going to be able to add or offer a low income rate as well, which is going to save about a couple cents um per kilowatt hour. So, not insignificant. >> How about anything with the senior citizens? I'm sorry, I didn't mean to. >> No, it's okay. So, I have so I have two questions. one regarding the
100different rates. Will it be clear about how you select like if you really want to do the 100% sustainable one, that optional one? Because right now, if you do nothing, you get put into the standard product. >> Correct. >> Um, so it will be made very clear how you make that change. Okay. And then is it something you can change along the way? Right. In six months, you go, "Okay, you know what? I'm doing a little bit better. I'm willing to pay a little bit more to be more sustainable or things have gotten worse and I need to save a couple of cents so I'm going to go to the other one. Okay. So that's one thing. >> And then the lowincome one is that going to be an income verified program? >> I'll have
101to look at the details. Okay. How there? Yes, it would be a verification program or like you would be eligible for another program, you know, another subsidy type of program. >> Okay. >> Just gets added to it. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Yeah. So there's >> I just uh my question um is just that how does this compare to previous rates? >> It's a little bit well we've never really been able to offer you know multiple options like this. Um it's not the best rate that we got. It's better than than um than some of the other towns that have been going out uh recently like within the last couple of months. I think I think it's a little bit higher than what um than what it is right now. I did not include that.
102Um but yeah, it actually might be. Yeah, I'll have to double check on that because if Eversource's rate right now is 14884, um yeah, I'll have to check on that and I can confirm. You're welcome. Do you have any? No. Makita, you good? Randy, how about you? Okay, Mike. Um, look, year 26 budget update, please. >> Sure. So, we do have some good news um just with regards to the budget and I just want to share with you what is uh happening here. Um so once the final state aid numbers were um produced and the cherry sheets were updated um we're going to have a net state aid change uh between chapter 70 and ug which is unrestricted general government aid of 194 uh458. Um, Superintendent Adams and I spoke. Um, I think they're losing
103some federal grant funding. Um, and so, um, he would like, you know, we talked about the possibility of basically using these funds and just splitting it through the 7030, um, you know, percentage split. Uh, that's part of our policy. Um I think he was he was advocating for all of this on this page to be split up. I was advocating for it all to go to the deficit or you know to reduce the deficit. And so we felt like this was a good compromise. So that would increase the school department budget by 136,000 um and municipal departments by 58,000. Um so in addition to that we have some local adjustments as well um of 200,000 based on what we budgeted for new growth versus what the revised projection is after Don has gotten uh through
104some of his uh new growth calculations. Uh the KEFET assessment as I had mentioned last year is going down. So that equates to a total change of uh 225,980. Um and so what that would be used to do is to reduce the deficit um of 2.8 million that we incurred in FY26. So not a huge difference but it's um making a little bit of a difference. >> So any questions regarding this? So in in looking at the uh the bottom uh statement uh these adjustments of appropriation reflect the 7030 split from the so the 420,000 438 that'll be the 7030 split or is that >> well I I realized when I was reading this before the meeting it >> the way I wrote it so the it looks like the 400 all 420,000 would be
105going towards the 7030 split but only 194,000. >> Okay. I just want that clarification. >> Yeah. >> So, just let me see. So, the 225980 is going straight to the deficit. >> Reduce the deficit and the 194 is being so but how is the 225 being allocated? Because the deficit is a total number. So is that you know how is that being split in any way or right because our deficit is based on a 7:30 split of expenses of this the school you know school versus general government. >> Yeah. >> So I would think the deficit would be similar. >> Yeah. So the easiest thing would just be not to take as much money from the stabilization fund. >> Okay. So that's the plan. We're not we won't be taking as much from stabilization. Okay,
106>> that makes sense. >> Stabilization is just one fund >> split up. >> So, um >> so we're we're going to be taking $420,000 $420,000 less out of the stabilization fund. No, that's the tricky part. That's that's the piece where I I clarified >> the 225 is is what we're doing less from the stabilization fund and we're increasing the school budget by 70% of the 198 and we're increasing the general government budget by 30% of it. >> Correct. Correct. >> Yeah. I was thinking about the >> So it increases our total budget by the $198,000. um >> if we're adding that 198. >> Yes, it does. It does. It does. It's just the revenue. You've got now the revenue that supports >> to offset it. Okay. >> So, it wouldn't increase the deficit anymore. >>
107Correct. >> Okay. I was thinking about some of the funds like special education, um sewer, some of those being but it's not. It's going directly to the stabilization. >> Yeah. Yeah. That's where we took the mo like big chunk out. >> Okay. >> Good. >> Yeah, I'm good with that. >> Any other questions? >> Nope. >> Okay. >> Um, field transition. >> Yeah. So, I I've mentioned before that uh Superintendent Adams and I have talked about um transitioning the maintenance of the school fields, the maintenance and the scheduling of the school fields back over to the school department. It just makes sense because it's school property. U you know, the municipal side doesn't um you know, doesn't have any control over over the use of that property and it's it's not our responsibility. and plus
108looking at the resources that we have. So, um Jee and I talked a couple weeks ago. Um the plan is is basically going to put together a working group um that consists of, you know, representatives from different departments, also some of the youth sports um and and other you know stakeholders involved >> and um put a plan together for the effective transition happening on July 1st of 2026. Just wanted to give you an update on that. Um, >> now will that require the school department to hire people to >> how they manage it is is is up to them. Um, >> I mean, some of some of the way they manage people obviously is driven by contractual agreement. So, do they have current employees whose contracts would cover this type of maintenance? >> I think
109that's something that we would probably work out through that working group, figure all of that out. So, um so any any other questions that before I move on? Okay. Um just a real quick update on open gov implementation. Looks like we're going to start moving DPW over to that as well. Um, starting, you know, really starting to round out some of the departments that are on this uh system, which is going to make things a lot more efficient. Uh, no more chasing signatures all in and reviews should should make it easier for different departments to review things that might not necessarily come in to their department, but they play a role in it. So, for example, if you know, this happens pretty pretty well right now. But like if a planning application comes in, you
110know, health conservation, you know, they all would be required to look at it, make sure they look at it, sign off on it, make sure that there isn't anything jurisdictional there. So there's that. >> Just a quick question about that. So is there an implementation schedule or rollout rollout schedule as to what departments will have access you know when we get to like you know our our full target as to who's going to be on the system. Is there a schedule? >> There is we can and it fluctuates a bit because we're dependent upon open gov sometimes on the training aspects of it. >> Um but I can certainly get it for you. >> I'm just curious to find out like >> Yeah. Thanks. >> Okay. And then finally, um not the best news, but
111um we did get a positive sample for West Nile virus here in town. Um so it's it's been creeping up a little bit across the state. So we did get one. Um, so we've already started putting some information out there regarding, you know, just how you can protect yourself, all of that good stuff. Um, Central Mass Mosquito Control Project is actually going to come and spray certain, you know, streets within the location where they found the, um, the sample on Monday night. Um and then you people do have the option to exclude themselves from that if they don't want to be subjected to that. So we'll put all that information in the newsletter and on the website that good stuff. That's fine. Good. Just going to ask >> just have a question about Westnile virus
112levels you know across the state at this point. So, you know, I I know that there are a lot of activities that are happening, you know, was there a school there dusk and and people doing out dawn like what should we expect in so far as warnings that we found like one one particular we found one instance from one animal that was infected or >> Yeah, one sample. >> Okay. One sample. So, it's a sample. So at what point do do we start issuing um advisories around uh dusk and dawn activities etc etc? >> Um state usually gives us some guidance on when to start doing that. It's funny if you go to the state website they still have this listed as like low >> in terms of I saw that. >> Did you see
113that? Yeah. >> Yeah. Um which I was a little bit surprised. Um, so I haven't had a chance to debrief with Raj yet and ask them, you know, kind of like what that whole protocol is. I know. So what they do have is they have traps, you know, across the state and they go test those um on regular basis, regular cadence. Um, I don't know exactly when that is though, if it's weekly or every other day or something. That's something I need to get from Raj. >> And will we let people know what area they found it and what area is being sprayed? Yes, we can. Um, I'm trying to remember we know exactly what area where they found it, but I do have a list of the streets. >> Okay, we should get that
114out. >> Was it southside? >> That's important. >> I know the newspaper. >> Um, >> people can take the everybody should be taking precautions, but folks in that area should be particularly vigilant. >> Yeah. Um, >> and as I mean they're they're talking about the weather this week is going to more like October temperatures, but you know, if you can wear long sleeves, if it's not too hot, all of that good stuff makes a difference. >> Do we know how many traps they have in Ashland? >> I don't I don't know that. Um, we have a few. >> I'm curious to find out how they take their samples. >> Check >> there. They do it in wetlands. And don't you have wetlands right in the back of your house? >> Yes. Yeah. So they they
115they're out there >> there. And look in the brook that goes between you and >> mosquitoes and beavers. >> I know it's not on your um list here, >> but um paving on 135. um if you have an update and then if we could in one of our meetings in September get an update on what has been done and what else is planned because I've had people ask me so you know I've seen South Street I've seen this street I've seen 135 what is the plan for the rest of the paving for the rest of this year. >> Okay, >> if we could but if you could give us a quick update on 135 now and then if our next meeting we can get an update on all the paving that's planned. I know they
116haven't. I've got to find when they're going to do the striping. Um I know Dan had some particular concerns with some parts of the paving job. Um haven't had a chance to connect with him today. Um to find out just what the plan is. Are we going to make Lynch go back and redo it? If it does it require that, etc. >> Um >> because that would mean remilling it and then putting it back down, right? >> Correct. Correct. Potentially. I mean, if it's around like some of the structures and everything. Um, >> I mean, as much as I've driven on there last few days, um, I mean, I've seen a couple things that >> Okay. >> And I'm not even a paving guy. So, um, >> and but the plan is to have it
117done before next week, right, when school starts. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> That's gas worth. >> Yeah. They're they're repairing leaks. >> Yeah. Well, yeah, we've been we've been on them. >> Going to be a major problem at Elliot. >> Yeah, no kidding. >> There are there already is the amount of traffic on on Prospect just to get to Elliot has been >> crazy, >> right? And school buses to that. >> Well, and I and I did have to laugh because the gas project is going on, right? So, Fruit Street is closed off and the other day I'm on Elliot Street and our local guys, you know, God, you know, glad that they're doing it, but they're then doing some patchwork. So, you have this additional traffic on Elliot Street. Oh, yeah. >> That is
118down then to one lane because of the And so, it was >> it was a little crazy. I was like, "Yeah, we could have planned that one a little bit better." Mhm. >> I ended up going 126 to Island Street back home in Holl just to avoid all that because it was a five minute delay. Easy. >> Easy. 5 to 10 minutes. >> Yep. >> So >> that's all. >> Thank you, sir. >> Thank you. >> Very good. Appreciate that. >> Did you Did you want to give any update on uh the 40Bs >> or actually I don't have it on the agenda, so we really can't get into it. >> I'll I'll >> Okay. Yeah. Put it on your your board report. There you go. Yolanda, you're up. >> Thank you. Uh a couple
119things. So, last week Tuesday, uh Michael was there as well. the ABA and chamber from uh the business association from Hopkin and Milis and Marorrow uh do this great annual event at the outdoor YMCA. So, it's always nice to go to that and see people from all over. I attended that uh on Friday morning. There were a number of us. I I made it. I was surprised, but I made it at 7 a.m. for the for the flag raising at Stone Park for the Indian flag raising. It was very nice to see. And I had a nice conversation with a a a mom and her daughter older, you know, daughter probably I don't know how old, but just and then them reaching out to me via email to get involved. So the the the daughter
120wants to help out with the October event. So I'm going to connect her with you and >> um the Indian as as we've seen the Indian community really wants to get involved in this and and support it. Uh last night we had a mind school building committee meeting and Joe Paul Kendall is going to be reaching out to you to get on our first agenda in September to reduce that committee down. I mean it was >> okay. >> It took five or 10 minutes last night just to get our quorum because it's such a large committee and he's hearing from people that may want to are willing to step down. We're it's almost done. The fields are are getting there. We had an interesting discussion about the fields last night. So it's But those are
121those are getting close. >> Can I ask you a question with respect to that project? Uh the water runoff is that still turned down there? >> I believe they've resolved that. >> Have they resolved it some sort? Okay. >> Yeah, I know there was some some like at different points during the construction there was issues, but I'm pretty sure they've resolve I haven't heard anything recent. Okay. >> About issues with water runoff. >> Okay. >> So, >> we haven't had a lot of rain either. So >> yeah, >> other than today. >> Um >> been more about growing trying to grow grass that >> Right. Right. >> Yeah. >> Um and then couple things coming up on let's see Randy already mentioned this, but on Friday is Ashland after dark. This is an event that
122was brought about from the businesses downtown. They got together and that should be a fun event from I think 5 to 8 on Friday night. Uh the um >> what's that >> look like? Do you know >> it is all the businesses are going to be open and they're inviting people in that one of the groups is asking for donations for the food pantry. There's going to be music. There's going to be >> so it's a it's an event where you're going to walk. >> You're going to go to all the businesses, right? I heard that. Um I think they're all going to be open. They're typically not open past a certain time on Fridays, but they're opening up. And um >> I think there's going to be food. >> Crossroads is going to be
123open. >> There's going to be food. There's going to be stuff going on at Corner Spot. >> Yeah. >> Um I think Amaries is doing a hula hoop contest or something like that. >> That could be fun. >> Um >> I haven't seen the full agenda. I haven't had a chance. >> It's online and there but they're really But it should be a lot of fun. It should >> Do we know what time to hula hoop? I'm sorry. >> Oh, I don't know. Um, but we you'll have we'll have to find >> I need I Well, uh, yes. >> I want to say the hula hooping is that corner spot, but >> might want to check the thing, but there's going to be live music. There's a I know, like I said, we're going to
124be at Needam Bank and I think there's a band there going to be playing and >> so it'll be fun. Good time. >> Um, and then one last thing. So, tomorrow night we have a comp plan. It is a review of the draft comprehensive plan. It's looking pretty good. It is a very dense document. Uh but as part of that for community involvement for people to come and give their feedback um I had hoped to do five forums um but because of different timing right now we're down to four forums. Um I was supposed to have help but I'm going to probably doing most of these by myself or we'll see what comp plan members can do. We are looking at um Monday, August 25th. So this is next Monday, Tuesday, September 2nd, Thursday, September
1254th, and Monday, September 8th from 7 to 8:30. And those will be done here as well as available on Zoom. The goal is was going to be one um one theme per night, but we're going to try and crunch it so that one of them has two. I I don't know. I have to look at that. So, uh, those four nights are the opportunity for the public to look at the comprehensive plan, look at the goals, look at the strategies, and just say, "Yep, we think this is good." Or maybe a tweak or uh I don't expl are pretty set and the themes are pretty set, but just for the community to come and ask some questions. Uh, and then the process will be it'll go back to the comp plan. uh committee in September.
126They'll give it one final review. It will then come to both the select board and the planning board and then the plan is to bring it to town meeting in November um for the community to say yes or no and we're hoping they say yes. It's been a very thorough process. Uh I don't know if I don't think the draft is online yet, but it probably will be after our meeting tomorrow night. So you'll have the opportunity to go and see the amount of input that we received from the community for this plan. So um so again those are Monday August 25th, Tuesday, September 2nd, Thursday September 4th, and Monday September 8th from 7 to 8:30 here or via Zoom. >> Have those dates have have you um given those dates or anyone on the
127committee? >> Not yet. We're going to review that tomorrow. >> Okay. >> And I have gotten approval from Susan that the room is I had had a fifth date, but was told that the the room was not available. So that's why I've condensed it to four. >> I'm just thinking like I don't know if you've reached out to Jordan um to make sure those dates get put in Michael's newsletter. >> Yes. I I I Okay. >> It's on my list of things to do tomorrow. Um Okay. This has been one of those things trying to coordinate and figure, you know, as well as as you know, there's a lot going on, >> lot going on. >> Um, and then the last thing is on Saturday night, uh, the Ashlin Dog Park is doing a some
128type of benefit fundraiser at Clover Road. So, you can go have some beer and somehow the dog park benefits. And there should be shovel in the ground within the next week, I believe, or two for the dog park. there. I saw them going to put stakes in the ground yesterday morning as I went into Boston via the train. So, that's all I got. >> Nice. And the sign is up still up there. >> Yeah, there's still a sign that says future home of the dog park. So, that's happening. >> That's good. >> He told I no longer have a dog, but I'm excited for all the dogs in town. >> I was gonna say you're going to need that. the new empty neester. Makita, >> thank you. So, let's see. Um, last Monday I was
129uh very honored to be part of a merry band of volunteers at the village burial ground getting rid of a whole bunch of invasive species and other nasties uh on a nice Monday night or so. Um, so that was great. work on that continues. Um, as part of my work, uh, as the liaisoning with the historical commission, um, there are a couple of questions about vision, uh, you know, the path forward with village burial ground. I'm not going to get into too many details here, but um in order for them to do a few things, uh I I think they've landed on uh really needing to explore a historical deed restriction on that property, and that's something that we can talk a little bit further about later, but um I know they'll be asking for
130some help on that. Um let's see. I also was there more like 7:15 for the uh Indian independence day flag raising. beautiful event. Every year I go, it just gets better and better. Great to see all the folks out there and incredible performances, too. Um, so just a really beautiful cultural event. Very honored to have been there. Um, tonight, uh, Yolanda and I actually had our board and committee review meeting as she had mentioned earlier. We are definitely going to be coming back to y'all, uh, for our next meeting. We got to get on the agenda. We're going to be talking about a couple of the other recommendations that uh we've heard back from our committee members and chairs and Susan and folks who are running the process as well as some some thoughts uh
131around addressing some of the issues that were mentioned during those sessions. So looking forward to discussing that with this body the next time we get together. >> That's pretty much it. >> Thank you. I um had the good the pleasure of being away last week on little vacation. So um I wasn't doing much in the way of uh select board activities. Um, I did over the weekend take time to uh review the A August uh 12th uh ZVA meeting where um the 10 to 60 main folks presented and actually the 61 Waverly Street uh folks briefly presented. Um the the uh some renderings of the 10 to 60 main were shown. Um they were renderings that worked with a couple of our town architects that worked with their architect to um to maybe improve upon
132the actual design. Um we are kind of winding down pretty quickly on that project. Uh there are certainly some issues still at hand. I think that um you know we're we're going to ask for some clarification on some of the questions that have been put forward by uh people in the community. I know that um I reviewed uh the answers that Mr. Enler had put out um in this document on the website and a lot of his responses were just referencing something else. So, um I did happen to see uh our attorney this today and she said that indeed any questions that we still had that we should put them uh you know in in a note to her and that she and Mr. Winner would make sure that we got responses to those things.
133I think that one of the real problems in with this process has been that people do raise issues. They sometimes send them via email um and They're never discussed again in public and Mr. Angla, you know, gets a little frustrated when somebody says something that's already been resolved. That was fixed months ago. But people don't have any way of knowing that. And um you know, so that that's been a little bit of a problem. Um, I think that, you know, I know I still feel and I know that there are certainly uh people in the community that feel that they don't really have enough information about the project and about um what what we have might have some control over and what we maybe don't have any control over at all. um and the challenges
134around that. And I so I think that you know and I know Michael you and I had talked about this at one point that I don't think that we've done a very good job of um really talking about the the 40B projects in maybe in this form for one that that in my mind you know you did a great job. You put together a a nice um you know comparison between uh the MBTA law and 40Bs and how they differ and they are indeed very different. They do you know the MBTA really just is made changing your zoning and 40Bs are really projects and getting them moved through um the the town's process much faster. Um so I you know I I do think that as we are getting ready again to talk about I
135know we worked hard on a matrix for what our priorities are and I and I think that we do need to to give this I some you know priority in the in the public because I do feel as though this is u particularly I think 10 to 60 main is a project that is going to has the potential to um really have extreme extremely negative impact on the community. Um, you know, concerns with traffic, with parking, with the fact that it's built on going to be built on a plume. Um, that the vapor barriers, from what I understand, the research that I've done, they're basically good for 20 years. Um, you know, what happens to those vapors if they're, you know, locked down? um do they spread out and come up some other place or
136I mean where where do the vapors go? Um and those are questions I think that are fair questions and that we should have um conversations about and we should have answers for the community a as we move forward and and there's certainly you know a host of other items. I mean some that are just maybe you would call more aesthetic in terms of having a sixtory structure in the middle of town. Um the landscaping >> landscape I've actually just got a question about that last night like about landscaping and and and >> somebody pointed out to me that it see some of it had disappeared in these new renderings. Now the renderings that they showed in that meeting um >> were they said weren't complete and there was some conversation but >> but you just
137feel like you you're you know you don't really have all the information that you'd like to have. I know that at one point I had requested only after they had suggested it very early on that they would do a balloon test and then I had um requested that a couple of meetings ago whatever happened to the balloon test and someone suggested well instead of a balloon test why don't we just do a rendering that shows the project and how it compares to the surrounding structures and you know I I guess you know a A couple of people said to me, "Hey, you know, that's uh that that just doesn't do it." And it's true. It doesn't do it. And I'm thinking, maybe I should have pushed harder about that balloon test because the other thing
138with a balloon test is everybody gets to see it when they come down Pleasant Street or they go down Myrtle Street or they come from Myrtle Street rather than a rendering that maybe you saw on television and you probably didn't. >> So, um, you know, we really are winding down quickly. I think that Mr. Angler is going to um request a a a short extension because our attorney isn't available at the next meeting. Um which is I think a good thing. Um I actually happened to see attorney me today and you know talked to her about some of the waiverss and how the whole waiver process uh goes and and that's pretty interesting. I think people would could would learn a lot if they even looked at um some of the waivers that are outlined.
139Um, and additionally, somebody pointed out to me today that the that the applicant when they filed had to answer certain questions which have to really ultimately would mean they'd have to request a waiver for. So if they but they answered falsely on a couple of these. Um, so the, you know, then you say, okay, so if they answer that falsely, then do we have to be make sure that we force them that they have to submit a waiver for that? Um, so I just feel as though there's still a lot of um I really appreciated the conversation I had um with attorney me, but I I really feel and I just happened to be stopping in town hall for another purpose and and there she was. So um and she was very generous to offer
140me to come and sit with her. But um in any case, I just feel as though there's a lot of pieces here. Um you know, I did reach out to Mr. Sharer as well because he had raised again um the fact that we can expect to see an increase in railroad traffic through town, which would certainly have a a dramatic impact. Um, as well, I think we've all experienced what it's like to come through downtown when there's a a train. Uh, we currently, I believe, according to the schedule, have 25 trains that pass through Ashland on a 24-hour um basis. 20 of them stop in Ashland and five, you know, or the um whatever they call those routes, the express or whatever. Um so, in any case, but nonetheless, they cause the same in terms
141of traffic. They is the same congestion regardless of whether they happen to stop down the road or not. Um, so, so in any case, I feel as though there are a lot of pieces here. Um, you know, and I've kind of struggled with how to get this information out, how to really, you know, I hear from people, well, there's a lot of people that think this is a good idea. Well, nobody's come to me and said this is a good idea. Not a soul. Um, so, you know, I've kind of been tossing around the idea of trying to put together some kind of a survey that would be both informative and also get some feedback from community members. Um, and we are kind of getting down to the wire like I said. So, I um,
142if anybody has any suggestions or any questions that you want clarified, uh, Attorney Me did say to get her a list of things that we felt, um, still might need clarification. When does she need that by? >> Um, she didn't give me a timeline, but attorney winner is going to be out next the 26th, which I guess isn't when's that next Tuesday? >> Next Tuesday. Uh, well, it must be the following. It must be the following. September 3rd is going to be gone, I guess. In any case, he's going to be out for the next meeting. So, I would say sometime with before that period. right now with uh Mr. Eng's request for an extension that would move us to September 17. So I would say that we probably should get questions to her within
143the next week, 10 days. >> Do we see the balloon test as still something we could request from them just from a visual of what it would look like and make sure that it gets filmed and drones and all that stuff? >> Yeah, I mean I I've I made the request too very early. um in the process. Um I'm just I mean you could include it as part of the conditions but then it's almost like too late. Um they can certainly make the request again. He you know Mr. Angler seemed a little more u um a little more open I think to some things um at the last meeting. I mean he did I was really kind of surprised when he said he would be okay with extending it to make sure everybody felt comfortable
144that that was progress a little bit different than what he has presented before. Uh so maybe he'd be more open to Yeah. And I interesting too that somebody pointed out to me today that you know the state is suing the federal government about uh right laws and things that they're forcing us to do and um here the state is forcing us to do things and u just interesting right it's the states to the federal government and what about what about us um being forced to do things that we I feel are not you know on some level I' I feel like there's several safety issues there's you know some of the practical issues about around traffic and um there's there's a lot of issues here and and if a vapor barrier is good for 20
145years well then what do you how do you replace it or you know and I I think that there are um problem to just be potentially >> you know CL we had a conversation with Michael last week with respect to some of the things you groundwater EPA getting involved you know have a meeting with the EPA zoning board and I think that's that should be done before any decisions >> I'm actually surprised that hasn't come up before I would have thought the EPA or D would have been a little more on top of this because they know I mean there's there's issues, right? I mean, isn't there some kind of condition that there shouldn't shouldn't be housing on that lot and >> yeah, >> like >> so how I don't understand how that hasn't come
146up before. >> No, it it they they've been involved even even when this was as part of the planning board. I think uh maybe what Joe was saying is I think it would be helpful I think to have them at a ZBA meeting to answer questions. I think they have to be, >> you know, I think that's >> even just even if it's only for a public, >> right? >> That's what Well, that it's that's exactly what it's for, right? >> Um, going back to what you said, Claudia, about getting questions answered and, you know, there's a lot of, >> you know, and again, it's just I also feel like or I've also like observed that there's just a lot going on. Um, you know, a lot of back and forth. So, you know, I
147can understand why, you know, communication and clarity around some of this issue may not be like the best, but I think doing something around like definitely getting the EPA in having an opportunity for the public to come in and ask questions particularly around health and safety of this project and how that might impact uh folks in the town and even the folks that will be living there um at that property. I mean, I think these are part of the questions that I think people want to get some clarity on and just make sure that they understand >> what's happening and and so I do want to echo that, Claudia, because folks are asking me similar questions and I I don't really have any answers for them. >> Yeah. And and just the balloon test thing.
148So, what would it cost for us to do a balloon test? I mean, this building is 69 feet 11 in. >> Yeah. I don't know if it's a matter of cost. to just be getting the permission from Rich. I think at this point we put it on the sidewalk. >> We put it on the sidewalk. He has no say. >> Yeah. >> Back side of the building. >> Oh, that's true. That's true. >> But the sidewalk would give you some idea, right? >> No, I know. Not not you might have to reduce it or whatever, but >> it's a lot of string. >> You have to go up. >> Yeah. Well, yeah. I mean, I just don't think a rendering really does the trick, right? >> And that's >> renderings can be tricky. >> Yeah.
149Right. >> Yeah. Absolutely. I mean, you see it in real estate, right? when you're looking at pictures in houses and then you go there, you know, >> the room the room looks huge and then when you get in there it's it's it's teenytiny. Yeah. >> Are you all set? >> You good? Yeah. I appreciate the conversation with that. Thank you. >> Okay, Brandon. >> Um so I just wanted to also um Bank Ashland is United. They did a um a India Independence Day celebration at the farmers market this last week. um they did a great job and so I just wanted to to um congratulate Ashland United for all the work that they put into making that event great. Um Claudia and I and some members of of the this uh Ashland day committee were
150at the farmers market talking to folks. Um, and so we had a good day at the farmers market. And um, so a lot of what I'm doing right now is a full-time event planner, it seems. Um, I've taken I've taken three days I've taken three days off to move my kid to college, and now I'm I'm I'm back. So, >> it's going to keep you busy. >> It's going to keep me busy. You know how many people have told me they're like they're like, "Oh, it's kind of it's it'll be a good distraction for you." And I'm like, "Exactly." So, >> going on. >> I you know, it all plays in. So, it's it's all good. But, um but yeah, so we're >> we're um I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who
151has offered to help and and given funds towards Ashlin Day and for Joe and his support and the team that we're all working together and it's just it's amazing. And so, um, we're hoping hoping for a great day and we've got like five weeks, so no problem. Plenty of time. >> Plenty of time until you wake up and it's October 3rd. >> Yeah. We're not going to talk about that. So, Yep. Yep. Yep. Yep. But all is good. That's all I've really got because that's all I've been doing is Ashley. >> Thank you. Appreciate that and appreciate all the work that you folks have done throughout the throughout the week. And so, um, I too was uh at Friday morning service. It was a wonderful event. I just love the costumes. I love the dance,
152the custom. It was just phenomenal. It just it was just it just I love near and dear to me. This is what Ashland's all about. The demographics are changing and everything is this is what Ashland is. We can't support each other. That's then we have a um I appreciate Claudia's comments with respect to the uh 1060 Main Street. I still have a problem with the traffic. Um Mr. Angler and I are going to be button heads till the till till the day this project is either done or not done respect to that. Um I can see some real issues especially now that the MBTA is adding two more stops on on a daily basis to this to this route starting 2027. um that wasn't taken into consideration and was never even when I when it
153was asked about when you consider that and re you know revamp your traffic study there was there was no response dead silence um which is basically has been a response for the last you know weeks several weeks or so with respect to the questions that haven't been asked or have been it's like shuffling the answers around so you have to figure out what answers to what question I deal. U like Michael said at that last meeting and I was present uh physically present for that. You know he showed some eagerness to accept the uh the extension and offer the extension. Okay. I mean it's it's little little uh a little bit a little bit uh not enough. to me. I just I I just worry that we're not getting full response and answers from him
154that that we should be getting. Uh the runaround is I'll say it like it is. I just feel it's just just a runaround. Anyway, long story short, um last concert is this coming Tuesday. Um we're not sure if the band is going to be available. We we understand that there was one member of the band that's quite ill, so I'm not sure if that's going to happen, but uh we will find a replacement. But it's Tuesday night at 6:30. Uh ban to be announced, to be determined. Um so and they start at 6:30. So bring your bring your uh mosquito spray just in case, you know, just just to bear with you. We'll make sure that we get we get it right. And uh appreciate all the work that you folks have done. Uh school
155starts next week. Watch out for the kids that are walking to school, >> or >> Yeah. Yeah. Right. >> Right. Absolutely. And um we won't be meeting until after the uh Labor Day weekend. So, happy Labor Day to everybody. Make it safe. If you're traveling, make sure that uh you get to where you're going safely and return safely because we don't want any we don't want to miss anybody. So, with that, I'll entertain a motion to adjurnn. >> So, moved. >> Second. >> All those in favor? I I >> thank you and good night and happy Labor Day, everybody. >> See you on the third.