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Boxborough News: ABRSD School Committee Hears Presentation on “AB Forward” Strategic Findings

At its meeting on September 4, the Acton-Boxborough Regional School Committee heard a presentation from consultant District Management Group (DM Group) about the “AB Forward” project.
  AB Forward is the strategic planning and reorganization initiative to “create an updated strategic plan as well as a set of 3-5 actionable options for district reorganization that could guide district operations for the next 5-10 years.”
  A DM Group representative presented the findings from a “diagnostic assessment” evaluating the district’s strengths and challenges. This assessment took place over the course of the summer and incorporated the results of a community survey that had more than 1000 participants.
  The findings identified three “key areas.” The first was “evolving student need and enrollment across schools,” with the consultant noting a significant variation in the composition of need at each of the elementary schools and recognizing both the benefits and challenges of the open enrollment model.
  The second was “student outcomes and wellbeing, and staff wellbeing,” with the consultant identifying strong academic outcomes and excellent educators but also gaps across student need groups.
  The third was “district finances, operations, and long-term sustainability,” with the consultant flagging the revenue limitations and increasing student needs and costs.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough News: FSBC Prepares Two “Sense of the Meeting” Articles for Fall Town Meeting

At its meeting on August 28, the Boxborough Fire Station Building Committee (“FSBC”) finalized the language for two “sense of the meeting” (non-binding) warrant articles, related to the cost and location of a new fire station, for the town to take up at Fall Town Meeting on October 14-15.
 The first article asks whether the town is willing to pay a premium to build a new fire station on Massachusetts Avenue as opposed to the 72 Stow Road site, which is currently believed to be the least expensive site. FSBC members discussed how to characterize the “premium” when there are no definite cost estimates yet, and eventually settled on “up to $6 million more.” FSBC Chair Mary Brolin stated that this article “would give a lot of guidance to the committee about whether we should be willing to pay that premium to move [the fire station] out onto Mass Ave.”
  The second sense of the meeting article asks whether the town is in favor of exploring building a fire station with “Green Infrastructure” components above and beyond basic code requirements. The Board decided to ask Boxborough Sustainability Committee Chair Kate Davies to help revise the language of the article. The Board will review and vote on the revised language at their next meeting.
  In other preparation for Fall Town Meeting, the FSBC voted unanimously to recommend the Planning Board’s proposed municipal zoning bylaw amendment that would allow municipal public safety buildings (including a fire station) to be constructed “by right, everywhere” in the town of Boxborough.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough News: “Hope Grows Here”-- Getting to Know the UCC Boxborough’s New Pastor, Fran Graveson

On a warm August afternoon, Boxborough News sat down with Pastor Fran Graveson, the newly installed minister of the UCC Boxborough. This is Pastor Fran’s first time leading a ministry after interning at other churches for two years. She began leading UCC Boxborough in March 2025.
  Pastor Fran’s path to the ministry was a long and winding road. A Blackstone Valley native, Fran graduated from Bryant University with a degree in finance and worked for 30 plus years in corporate accounting for TJX, Hanover Insurance, and several smaller companies. 
  Raised as a Catholic, Fran says that she’s always been “church connected,” but “ebbed out of church” in her twenties. Then, when pregnant with her son, she wanted to be “back in the game,” so that her son would have a religious education opportunity. But her politics didn’t agree with the Catholic church, so she started “church shopping.” Through a favorite English teacher, she connected with a UCC church in the Blackstone Valley.
  Fran’s life took various turns (a divorce, leaving the church again, coming out LGBTQ), which led her to seek to understand herself and her relationship with God.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough News: Boxborough’s Available Water Quantity Deemed Sufficient for Foreseeable Future 

At its meeting on August 19, the Boxborough Water Resources Committee (WRC) received the final draft of the "Comprehensive Water Resources Report" from consultant Weston & Sampson (W&S), who has been working with the WRC over the past year. WRC Chair Fox said, “this final draft is an excellent document with many maps and tables. It will provide a solid foundation for future water-resource protection and planning.”
  The report states that “Boxborough's water supply originates from six groundwater basins, relying primarily on private groundwater wells and small community water systems serving residential, municipal, and commercial users.”
  The report concludes that the quantity of water available to Boxborough residents is presently sufficient and that it will likely remain so for the foreseeable future. The table from the report shows that the water in Boxborough’s groundwater basins is replenished at a rate much higher than the withdrawal rate of Boxborough’s wells.
  Members of the WRC were pleased with this result, but they cautioned that the quality of the water is also very important. A general assessment of water quality was beyond the scope of the W&S study and may be considered for a future study.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Last Week in Boxborough News 

Visit www.BoxboroughNews.org for the latest news stories and community features, as well as calendars and notices about local events in Boxborough and surrounding towns.
  Subscribe to receive a free weekly email newsletter from Boxborough News at https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.
  Last week’s Boxborough News headlines include:
  • Boxborough’s Available Water Quantity Deemed Sufficient for Foreseeable Future
  • Select Board Reorders Warrant Articles for Fall Town Meeting, Discusses Whether to Issue Recommendation on Zoning Articles
  • FSBC Prepares Two “Sense of the Meeting” Articles for Fall Town Meeting
  • Meditations with Ann: September Breathing
  • “Hope Grows Here”-- Getting to Know the UCC Boxborough’s New Pastor, Fran Graveson
  • RecCom Explores ‘Best Use’ for Erikson Landry Field
  • Pam’s Gardening Tips: A Great Time in Our Gardens
  • Boxborough Goes Back to School with New Playground at Blanchard
  • ABRSD School Committee Hears Presentation on “AB Forward” Strategic Findings

Never Forget: The Legacy of September 11 

 
Written By Deb Paul
“We’re not about what happened on 9/11. We’re about what happened on 9/12.” Jeff Parness, founder of New York Says Thank You, captured the essence of American resilience in just thirteen words.

This year marks the 24th anniversary of a day that changed our nation forever. September 11, 2001, is etched into our collective memory—not just for the horror we witnessed, but for the unity that followed. Most Americans remember exactly where they were when the news broke. The images of the Twin Towers collapsing, the chaos, the courage—they remain vivid, unshakable.

We lost thousands of innocent lives—on planes, in offices, on the streets. First responders ran toward danger, not away from it. Families were shattered. The American spirit was tested. And yet, as Rudy Giuliani said, “The attacks of September 11th were intended to break our spirit. Instead, we have emerged stronger and more unified.”

In the days that followed, something extraordinary happened. Strangers became neighbors. Political differences faded. Compassion surged. We remembered what it meant to be one nation, indivisible—not just in theory, but in practice. Flags flew from every porch. Blood banks overflowed with volunteers. People prayed together, cried together, and stood together.

We saw firefighters and police officers risk everything without hesitation. They didn’t ask who someone voted for or what religion they practiced. They saw fellow human beings in need—and they responded with courage and compassion. That spirit of selflessness defined the days after 9/11. It reminded us of who we are at our best.

But today, that unity feels distant. We are a nation divided—by politics, by ideology, by mistrust. The spirit of 9/12, once so palpable, now flickers faintly. The sense of shared purpose that once bound us has been replaced by suspicion and polarization.

Let this anniversary be more than a moment of mourning. Let it be a call to remember—not only the lives lost, but the values we rediscovered. Patriotism is not a relic. Unity is not naïve. These are the foundations of a resilient democracy.

We must reflect not only on what we lost, but on what we found: courage, compassion, and a renewed sense of community. These qualities are still within us. They are not confined to history—they are waiting to be revived.

So this September 11, pause. Reflect. Recommit. Not just to memory, but to meaning. To kindness. To courage. To each other.

Because the legacy of 9/11 isn’t just about what happened. It’s about who we became—and who we still have the power to be.

Come see Boxborough’s Treasures 

   The Boxborough Museum at 575 Middle Road will be open from  2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday September 14.  Come see Boxborough’s historic treasures including the 1850’s scale which is sensitive enough to weigh a penny and strong enough to calibrate a 50 pound weight, the “new” hearse built in 1881, and the “old” hearse (come and see how old is old).  Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information or if anyone wishes to arrange a private tour for a small group at a different time please call John Fallon at 978-264-0069.

FRESH BAKED APPLE PIES AT FPC

It’s time again for First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) to sell its homemade apple pies on Saturdays and Sundays, from Saturday, Sept. 20, to Sunday, Oct. 12. Sales will begin at 10 a.m. and will close when the day’s pies are sold, or at 1 p.m., whichever comes first. FPC’s 3 lb. pies are $20 each and 1 lb. tarts are $10, cash or check preferred. The apple pie stand is located at the front of the church grounds, at 353 Great Road, Stow. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org. Apples for the pies have been generously donated by Shelburne Farm of Stow.
Open table welcomes reesa morabito as first chief development officer

Open Table Welcomes Reesa Morabito as First Chief Development Officer


Concord and Maynard, MA (September 2, 2025) – Open Table, the MetroWest charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, today announced that Reesa Morabito has joined the organization as chief development officer. In this new position, Reesa will be responsible for developing multi-channel fundraising campaigns, stewarding major gifts, and creating thoughtful donor experiences that deepen engagement and inspire giving.
“Reesa is a strategic and relationship-driven fundraising leader with over a decade of experience helping nonprofit organizations grow through philanthropy,” said Alexandra DePalo, executive director, Open Table. “She is compassionate and genuine and will be a terrific addition to our team as we work together to meet the needs of our clients.”
Prior to Open Table, Reesa served as chief development officer at SMILE Mass, where she secured the largest gift in the organization’s 16-year history, launched its first Annual Golf Tournament, and cultivated meaningful relationships across all areas of the community -- including donors, board members, and program participants. Before SMILE Mass, Reesa worked at MGB Spaulding Rehabilitation, where she led high-impact initiatives like the Race for Rehab Boston Marathon program and developed long-term engagement opportunities for major donors, physicians, and hospital leadership.
“Open Table is fortunate to have a community that supports it in so many ways,” said Reesa Morabito, chief development officer, Open Table. “I look forward to getting to know the staff, volunteers, and donors so that we can work together to help fight food insecurity among our neighbors.”
Reesa Morabito lives in Framingham with her husband and children. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time outdoors, riding bikes, cooking, reading, and sharing time with family and friends.

New England Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society to Host Annual Seedling Sale and Discussion on Seed Saving in Sudbury

On Saturday, September 20, all gardeners are welcome to join the New England Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society (NARGS) for their fall kick-off meeting. The topic of the day is seed saving, processing, and growing. The event will take place at the Goodnow Library in Sudbury from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm.
Attendees are asked to bring their own bag lunch, with beverages and snacks provided. At 11 am, Jan Sacks and Marty Schafer of Carlisle lead the panel discussion on Seeds - Collecting and Cleaning Techniques. These expert growers will share tips they’ve found valuable. After the lunch break, our Annual Seedling Sale begins at 1 pm. Members bring their extra seedlings of clearly labelled rock garden plants, including some natives, to share. The first-round price is $2 per pot until buying slows down, after which the price is $1 per pot. Very special, higher-value plants may be raffled off.
Come to buy, even if you can’t bring seedlings of your own!
Household goods in urgent need

Household Goods in Urgent Need of Essential Household Items
Please Donate or Host a Collection Drive


Acton, MA  Household Goods, a local non-profit organization that provides a full range of donated furniture and household items, free of charge, to help people in need make a home, is experiencing a surge in demand and is in need of more essential items. The organization is urgently requesting donations of the following:
  • Blankets and comforters in all sizes (no rips or stains)
  • Towels in all sizes (bath/hand/washcloths; no rips or stains)
  • Sheet sets (all sizes, but especially King, Queen and Full)
  • Sets of drinking glasses (no stemware)
  • Sets of Flatware/silverware
  • Pots and pans (especially larger frying pans)
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Baking dishes (especially size 13 x 9)
"We are seeing a significant increase in the number of clients referred to us because they cannot afford to buy the furniture they need to fill their empty homes," said Sharon Martens, Executive Director of Household Goods. "Many of our clients are starting over after experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or overcoming other challenges. These items are essential for creating a comfortable and functional home environment."
Household Goods is open for donation drop-offs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 9am to 12 noon at 530 Main Street in Acton. Volunteers are on hand to assist donors with unloading their vehicles.
Individuals or groups interested in hosting a collection drive can find guidance here: https://www.householdgoods.org/volunteering/host-a-drive/
"We are grateful for the community's support in helping us meet the needs of our clients," said Martens. "Every donation, big and small, makes a difference in the lives of people who are working hard to make a home."
For a complete list of items that Household Goods can accept, please visit their website at https://householdgoods.org/guidelines.
About Household Goods
Household Goods, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Acton, MA that provides donated furniture and household items to individuals and families in need. The organization has been serving the community for over 30 years and has helped thousands of people make a home. Learn more at householdgoods.org and follow on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meetinge

 
Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our group has been meeting in Acton for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net
Shelves bare at fresh start!

Shelves Bare at Fresh Start!

This is how our appliance and lamp shelves looked this morning!  My job today was entering inventory and I only entered 2 lamps and 1 steam iron for appliances.  We are very low on dish sets (I counted 7) and cookware & bakeware.
    In the linens department we need queen and full size sheet sets, comforters and blankets and “throw” blankets for couches.  Also potholders, shower curtains, liners and rings.  And bath towels!
     We are low on end tables & bedside tables, storage cabinets & bookcases.
If you can help by donating these much-needed items, please see our website at www.freshstartfurniturebank.org for our location and hours for donations.
     Thank you!

Boxborough News: Select Board Considers Establishing Board of Assessors After Town Assessor Departure

At their meeting on August 11, the Boxborough Select Board heard a presentation from Finance Committee Chair Tony Newton recommending that Boxborough establish a Board of Assessors to oversee the assessor’s office.
  The town has been operating with Interim Town Assessor James Doherty since August 4. He is expected to be with the town for at least seven weeks, but not permanently. A search for a permanent Town Assessor is underway. The former Town Assessor was terminated on July 21.
  The Finance Committee is recommending that the town establish a Board of Assessors after identifying two issues of concern relating to the Town Assessor function in the wake of the Annual Town Meeting in May 2025.
  The first issue is that the town has built up a surplus of funds for property revaluation after approving annual revaluation warrant articles for $30,000. The second issue is a surplus of funds in the town’s overlay reserve, which is set aside for tax abatements.
  Finance Committee Chair Newton noted that there is currently no indication that any funds were misused.
  Newton told the Select Board that the Finance Committee is looking into both of these surplus issues, but that identification of the issues prompted the Committee to suggest the Select Board create a Board of Assessors to oversee the Town Assessor. Newton noted that most communities in Massachusetts have both a Board of Assessors and a Town Assessor. The Board of Assessors could be appointed or elected.
  The Select Board responded positively to the Finance Committee’s recommendation and voted to add a warrant article establishing a Board of Assessors to the Fall Town Meeting warrant.
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 

Boxborough News: It’s All About the Chocolate

 At Two Friends Chocolates, chocolate is not just a treat. It’s an art form, carefully crafted by owner and chocolatier, Lavanya (“Lala”) Selvaraj.
  Selvaraj opened Two Friends Chocolates at 629 Massachusetts Ave in Boxborough in 2020 after starting the business in her Boxborough home in 2016. The business has been the recipient of two Boxborough local business grants and has evolved from making chocolates and hot cocoa to serving up hot and cold “drinking chocolate” as well as “sparkler” cold fruit drinks.
  Boxborough News reached out to Selvaraj to learn more about her chocolate-making process from idea to shelf.
  Boxborough News: How do you come up with ideas for new chocolates?
  Selvaraj: “As makers, we thrive on bringing unique products to market—never replicating what already exists. We always listen to our customers’ needs, using their ideas as sparks of inspiration that guide us back to the drawing board, where we creating something entirely our own. For instance, when many asked us for a caramel-based treat, we didn’t just release another caramel - we developed our Caramel Barrels, a fresh concept built from the ground up. Similarly, while the viral Dubai bar has been widely replicated, we made a conscious decision not to follow that trend. Instead, we challenged ourselves to go above and beyond, creating a truly original offering: the Pistachio Kunafa Mendiant, with a never-before-seen flavor and design profile. Ideas ignite the process—but our craft lies in transforming those ideas into distinctive, original creations.”
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 

 

Boxborough News: Planning Board Votes on Proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendments for Public Safety Use and MBTA Communities


  At its meeting on Monday August 18, the Planning Board conducted public hearings on the proposed zoning bylaw amendments to be voted at Fall Town Meeting, scheduled for October 14 and 15.
  Planning Board Chair Rebecca Verner first opened the continued public hearing on the proposed zoning bylaw amendment to allow and define “public safety” under the “Utility and Public Service Uses” in the Boxborough Zoning Bylaw.
  The Board discussed two approaches to zoning for public safety. One option brought forth by Planning Board Clerk Rich Guzzardi would allow public safety use in all districts throughout town “by right.” The other option, proposed by member Cindy Markowitz, is an overlay district, which would allow public safety by right only in specific parcels along Massachusetts Avenue, Liberty Square Road, Central Street, and Swanson and Codman Hill Roads.
  A majority (3 - 2) of the Planning Board voted in favor of placing a proposed zoning bylaw amendment allowing public safety use by right in all districts on the Fall Town Meeting Warrant. The article will require a two-thirds vote to pass at Town Meeting.
   In its final public hearing of the evening, the Board reopened the continued hearing on the MBTA Communities zoning. The proposed district will comprise the existing multifamily housing at the Meenmore Condominiums and apartment buildings at 1198, 1214, 1228, and 1238 Hill Road.
  Just after midnight, the Board voted unanimously (5 - 0) to recommend the language for the MBTA Communities overlay district. The article will require a majority vote to pass at Fall Town Meeting.
  The MBTA Communities Act requires communities with access to MBTA amenities (and neighboring communities like Boxborough) to change zoning regulations to allow a certain amount of multifamily housing by right. This program does not guarantee that housing will be produced, but creates the opportunity for future housing growth. Boxborough is required to adopt the required zoning change no later than December 2025.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 
 

Last Week in Boxborough News

 Visit www.BoxboroughNews.org for the latest news stories and community features, as well as calendars and notices about local events in Boxborough and surrounding towns.
  Subscribe to receive a free weekly email newsletter from Boxborough News at https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.
  Last week’s Boxborough News headlines include:
  • Planning Board Votes on Proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendments for Public Safety Use and MBTA Communities
  • Fire Station Building Committee Authorizes Study of Two Alternative Fire Station Sites
  • It’s All About the Chocolate: Q&A With the Owner of Two Friends Chocolates
  • Select Board Considers Establishing Board of Assessors After Town Assessor Departure
  • Finance Committee Defers Recommendation on Zoning Bylaw Articles, Reviews FY 2025 Financial Dashboard
  • Flerra Summer Playground Concludes 2025 Season
  • Focus on Jim Rober, Boxborough Photographer
  • Library Celebrates End of This Year’s Summer Reading Program

Boxborough News: BPD K9 Koda Assists Lancaster Police Department

On July 30, 2025, the Lancaster Police Department contacted the Boxborough K9 unit and asked for assistance to conduct an article search for evidence in connection with an incident the previous day.
  On July 29, the Lancaster Police Department had stopped two suspects on motor scooters as part of an investigation into a stolen vehicle. The suspects fled the scene, apparently dropping something on the ground in the process.
  Hoping to locate an identifying article on the roadside with human scent, and wanting to ensure nothing dangerous was dropped at the scene, the Lancaster police contacted the Boxborough K9 unit to conduct a search of the area.
  A statement from Police Chief John Szewczyk reads, “On Thursday, July 30th, K9 Officer Maxwell Bressi and K9 Koda were requested by the Lancaster Police Department to conduct an article search for evidence. One day earlier, two scooters fled from Lancaster Officers and a pursuit and eventual crash occurred. The Boxborough Police Department was not involved in the pursuit. During the article search, K9 Koda located a Visa gift card which may have been utilized by one of the suspects. The case is ongoing.”
     This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 

 

Boxborough News: Select Board Joined by State Legislators to Honor Past and Present Select Board Members

State Senator Jamie Eldridge and State Representative Dan Sena joined the Boxborough Select Board at their meeting on July 28 to recognize former Select Board member Dave McKiernan, who recently moved out of town and resigned from the Board.
  McKiernan was commended for his service to the town and received Senate and House citations for his contributions to Boxborough. Each member of the Select Board and the Town Administrator also thanked McKiernan for his hard work and dedication to the town.
  Representative Sena also recognized current Select Board member Priya Sundaram as a recipient of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women’s “Commonwealth Heroine” award. Representative Sena nominated Sundaram for the award, which recognizes one woman from each legislators’ constituency for her service to the community. Sena thanked Sundaram for her leadership in the town of Boxborough.
  After honoring McKiernan and Sundaram, the Select Board heard a recommendation from the Boxborough Conservation Commission that the town consider adopting a ban on a class of rodenticides called Second-Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides (SGARs). This category of rodenticide is used to control rats and mice by causing internal bleeding, but can also lead to the poisoning of other wildlife that prey on the poisoned rodents.
  The Board voted unanimously to support the Conservation Commission’s recommendation and develop a policy prohibiting the use of SGARs in Boxborough.
   This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough News: FreeBee Overflows with Food, Fun, and Community This August

Boxborough’s FreeBee Market is buzzing with generosity and good vibes this August! Each Saturday, the free food-sharing market overflows with fresh produce, hearty bread, and other delicious finds — all rescued and donated from local gardens, the Boston Area Gleaners, nearby supermarkets, and farmstands.
  Every Saturday at 10:30 a.m. on the side lawn of UCC Boxborough (30 Middle Road), there is plenty of produce available and, thanks to generous local partners like Slow Rise Bakery in Concord and Panera Bread, there’s always a table full of fresh bread.
  But FreeBee is more than just food. On Saturday, August 16, the monthly Community Market returns — an expanded celebration of neighborly connection, live music, and seasonal joy! UCC Boxborough will be serving up free hot dogs, hosting live music by The Saturdays, and setting up kid-friendly fun like a bouncy house and LEGO play area.
  This month’s theme is Back to School. FreeBee is collecting and giving away backpacks and school supplies to help local families start the year strong. Donations can be dropped off in the bin outside UCC Boxborough (across from Town Hall), and any extras will be shared with the AB Compass Resource Center.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough News: West Nile Virus Detected in Boxborough Mosquito Sampling, Residents Urged to Take Precautions to Avoid Mosquito Bites 

 
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) has notified the Boxborough Board of Health that West Nile virus (WNV) was recently detected in mosquitoes collected from Boxborough. No human cases have been reported in Boxborough at this time.
  According to Nashoba Board of Health Agent Jim Garreffi, “the Department of Public Health is regularly conducting surveillance to determine the range and prevalence of both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The first positive hit in a mosquito is generally seen as an opportunity to educate the public on protective actions they can take to minimize their risk of contracting disease.”
  On Wednesday August 6, the Town posted a press release on its website confirming WNV in Boxborough mosquitoes. The notice includes some specific precautions that residents can take to avoid mosquito bites, including the use of insect repellent with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, IR2525, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. The notice suggests wearing long sleeves and pants and avoiding outdoor activities during the hours from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most prevalent.
  Town Administrator Michael Johns asked Garreffi if closing the town’s recreational fields would be an appropriate response. Garreffi responded, “I don’t think closing or reducing hours at the fields would be necessary, but posting the information at the recreational town properties would help send the message for individuals to protect themselves. The Department of Public Health still lists the risk for WNV and EEE as low for Boxborough.”  
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Last Week in Boxborough News

 
 Visit www.BoxboroughNews.org for the latest news stories and community features, as well as calendars and notices about local events in Boxborough and surrounding towns.
  Subscribe to receive a free weekly email newsletter from Boxborough News at https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.
  Last week’s Boxborough News headlines include:
  • West Nile Virus Detected in Boxborough Mosquito Sampling, Residents Urged to Take Precautions to Avoid Mosquito Bites
  • Select Board Joined by State Legislators to Honor Past and Present Select Board Members
  • BPD K9 Koda Assists Lancaster Police Department
  • Planning Board Considers Municipal Zoning for Public Safety Use, Selects Meenmore/Hill Road parcels for MBTA Communities Zoning
  • Economic Development Committee Imagines Boxborough “Village for a Day”
  • Housing Board Discusses Potential New Construction of Affordable Housing Units
  • Well-Being Committee Plans Outreach to Immigrant Families
  • FreeBee Overflows with Food, Fun, and Community This August
  • Sargent Memorial Library Launches Third Book Club
  • Pam’s Gardening Tips: Annuals For My Husband

Calling All Crafters!

Nashoba Valley Technical High School Foundation 12th Annual Craft Fair will be held Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 10 AM - 3PM (Set up 8AM - 9:30AM)
Nashoba Valley Technical High School, 100 Littleton Road (Rt. 110), Westford, MA
Register now for this well-attended event - only 100 spots available!
Vendor fee is $75 (includes an 8 foot spot, and 2 chairs bring your own table or display).
Vendors can now register now for the 2025 NVTHS Foundation craft fair via the following link.
http://weblink.donorperfect.com/nvths_foundation_craft_fair
Any questions, email NVTHSFoundation@nashobatech.net


Boxborough News: Planning Board Begins Conversation on Municipal Zoning Issue, Will Hold Public Hearing August 4

 
On July 16, the Boxborough Planning Board held a “working session” to tackle a potential zoning bylaw amendment regarding municipal use.
  The three-hour session did not result in a decision or vote, but allowed the five Planning Board members to discuss possible approaches to a bylaw amendment in advance of a public hearing scheduled for Monday, August 4.
  In January, the Town’s Fire Station Building Committee received a letter from Building Inspector Ed Cataldo expressing his opinion that Boxborough’s zoning bylaws do not specifically allow a firehouse to be built anywhere in town and that a zoning bylaw amendment would be required to correct this apparent error.
  This continues to be disputed by some, who believe that building in the current location of the fire station would be allowed as a pre-existing non-conforming use.
  At the May 2025 Town Meeting, the Select Board attempted to solve the problem identified by the Building Inspector by bringing a warrant article to amend the zoning bylaw to allow municipal governmental use in every zoning district throughout town. The article failed to pass, as did a warrant article to fund the next stage of the fire station building process.
  In June, the Select Board, Planning Board, and Fire Station Building Committee convened to figure out how to move forward in a way that would allow the town to build a fire station. At that meeting, the Planning Board expressed its intent to take up the issue and propose a zoning amendment.
  At their July 16 meeting, Planning Board members first discussed the threshold question of whether a proposed bylaw change should address all municipal uses or simply focus on “public safety” (the municipal use relevant to the fire station project). Some members indicated a preference for addressing the broader issue of all municipal uses, while others cautioned that a broader approach might make it more difficult to complete the task by the planned October Special Town Meeting.
  A second question is whether to (1) allow the use “by right” in all districts, (2) allow the use only by special permit in agricultural and residential districts, or (3) disallow the use in agricultural and residential districts. A fourth option, if the Board chooses to address all municipal uses, could be to distinguish between different types of municipal use and determine which are allowable in which type of zoning district.
  The Board acknowledged that the town has already rejected an approach that would allow all municipal uses “by right everywhere.” Three members - Mark White, Rich Guzzardi and Chris Dowdy - expressed that they are in favor of an amendment allowing the narrower public safety use “by right everywhere.” Alternatively, if the town doesn’t have the appetite for allowing public safety use in all districts, including agricultural and residential districts, they indicated they would favor allowing public safety use in those districts by special permit. Chair Rebecca Verner and member Cindy Markowitz indicated that they wanted to hear from the public before taking a position.  
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 
 

Last Week in Boxborough News

 
 Visit www.BoxboroughNews.org for the latest news stories and community features, as well as calendars and notices about local events in Boxborough and surrounding towns.
  Subscribe to receive a free weekly email newsletter from Boxborough News at https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.
  Last week’s Boxborough News headlines include:
  • Planning Board Begins Conversation on Municipal Zoning Issue, Will Hold Public Hearing August 4
  • Conservation Commission Recommends Rodenticide Ban
  • Water Resources Committee Discusses Gathering Data on Private Wells
  • Another Season of Flerra Summer Playground Winds Down, Registration for Final Week Closes July 27
  • Finance Committee Proposes Reestablishing a Board of Assessors, Questions Overlay Reserve Amount
  • Community Members Share Their Stories and Experiences at Annual "Ask Me Fair"
  • SPCP Regroups Around Workshop Findings and Discusses School Resource Officer Program
  • Pam’s Gardening Tips: Time to Give Up on Perfection

Boxborough News: Sustainability Committee Evaluates Plans for Waste Reduction Projects

On May 8 and June 12, the Boxborough Sustainability Committee (BSC) discussed swap shed planning, options for PAYT models, and the Specialized Stretch Code.
  With the swap shed article approved at the May 12 Annual Town Meeting, the committee began discussions on construction options, taking budget, materials, size, and timing into consideration. Electrification would require additional cost and time. Committee member Jay Krishnasamy suggested providing a digital platform in addition to the physical swap shed to allow residents to better coordinate items to adopt.
  Ian Gilson, the new Associate Town Planner, joined the meeting and conveyed active interest in supporting the committee’s waste reduction efforts, including participation in the waste reduction working group. The waste reduction working group has outlined two potential Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) models. The first is a hybrid model that maintains use of the transfer station requiring a vehicle sticker and adds the option of purchasing special PAYT bags for excess waste at residential homes. The second is a full PAYT model wherein solid waste collection would take place only at residential homes on a per unit basis, and the transfer station would be reserved only for the swap shed, composting, and disposal of special materials.
  Committee Chair Kate Davies noted that the full PAYT model would receive the majority of financial incentives provided by MassDEP compared to the hybrid model. The working group will continue to explore the financial framework for both models.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 

Last Week in Boxborough News

 Visit www.BoxboroughNews.org for the latest news stories and community features, as well as calendars and notices about local events in Boxborough and surrounding towns.
  Subscribe to receive a free weekly email newsletter from Boxborough News at https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.
  Last week’s Boxborough News headlines include:
  • Boxborough Celebrates Fifer’s Day
  • Hongbing Tang and Students Exhibit Artwork at Sargent Memorial Library
  • Meditations with Ann: Tree Pose to Chair Pose
  • Sustainability Committee Evaluates Plans for Waste Reduction Projects
  • Pam’s Gardening Tips: “I Believe in Climate Change”
  • FSBC Debriefs After First “Listening Session”

Last Week in Boxborough News

Visit www.BoxboroughNews.org for the latest news stories and community features, as well as calendars and notices about local events in Boxborough and surrounding towns.
  Subscribe to receive a free weekly email newsletter from Boxborough News at https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.
  Last week’s Boxborough News headlines include:
  • MBTA Communities 3A Advisory Group Reaches Consensus on Multifamily Housing Site Recommendation
  • What Does “A-B Forward” Mean for Blanchard? 
  • Water Resources Committee Consultant Reports Boxborough Has Adequate Water Supply
  • FSBC Continues to Look for a Path Forward on Fire Station Project
  • Select Board Revisits Town Response to Local ICE Activity
  • Finance Committee Hears Report on Unspent Funds, Suggests Potential Improvements to Town Finance and Budget Processes
  • Pam’s Gardening Tips: Are You a Deadheader?

Boxborough News Summer Schedule

  Happy Summer, Boxborough News readers! Through July and August, Boxborough News will publish our email newsletter on a biweekly schedule instead of weekly. We will publish on the following Fridays:  July 11, July 25, August 8, and August 22. We will be back to our regular weekly publication schedule on September 5.
  We will continue to update our website and social media accounts with new stories on a weekly basis throughout the summer. Check out www.BoxboroughNews.org and follow our Facebook and Instagram accounts.
  Comments, questions, or suggestions for Boxborough News? Curious about how to get involved? Don’t hesitate to reach out to boxboroughnews@gmail.com. We’re always looking for new ideas and volunteers.
  As always, thank you to the Boxborough community for supporting the Boxborough News project. 

Boxborough News: MBTA Communities 3A Advisory Group Reaches Consensus on Multifamily Housing Site Recommendation

On Monday, June 23, Boxborough’s “3A Advisory Group,” the committee charged with recommending locations that meet the multi-family zoning requirements of the MBTA Communities Act, met virtually to review the potential districts and discuss their recommendations which they will present to the Planning Board on June 30.
 After a brief introduction, Town Planner Alec Wade reviewed the three sites visited by the group on June 18: Leonard Road (District 1); Element (site of a commercial entity at 1146 Mass Ave - District 5); and 72 Stow Road (District 6). These sites were selected by the group based on their suitability for compliance with the law.
  The group discussed each site’s merits and drawbacks and decided that District 1 offers the best option for meeting the MBTA Communities zoning requirements. District 1 would include Leonard Road (Meenmore Condominiums) and abutting properties along Hill Road. This district is favored not only because of its proximity to the Littleton MBTA station and Route 2, but also because it includes both existing multifamily housing (that will partially satisfy the number and density of units required by the law) and land that can be developed, which would be zoned to allow additional multifamily housing to be built.
  On behalf of the 3A Advisory Group, Planner Wade will present District 1 for the Planning Board’s consideration at the Planning Board meeting on Monday, June 30. The 3A Advisory Group agreed to continue their discussion of 72 Stow Road as a potential alternate site and make additional visits to other alternate sites.
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.

Boxborough News: What Does “A-B Forward” Mean for Blanchard? 

By now, many Boxborough families have heard that the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District (ABRSD) has recently launched a strategic planning and reorganization project, dubbed “A-B Forward.”
 The goal of A-B Forward, which was initiated in response to the District’s ongoing budget challenges, is to “create an updated strategic plan as well as a set of 3-5 actionable options for district reorganization that could guide district operations for the next 5-10 years.”
  A steering committee of administrators, school committee members, educators, and parents is expected to meet monthly to support and guide the District’s work with consultant District Management Group.
 There are two phases to the A-B Forward project. The first phase is the development of a strategic plan. The second phase, which will begin in the fall, will focus on “possible concepts for reorganization.”
  As the news of A-B Forward spreads around Boxborough, families with students at Blanchard Memorial School have raised questions about what this all means for Blanchard.
  Boxborough News posed five commonly-asked questions to the ABRSD School Committee Chair Tori Campbell and the Vice Chair (and Boxborough resident) Adam Klein.
    Q: Is it possible that the reorganization process might result in Boxborough residents no longer being guaranteed a spot at Blanchard?
  A: The “hometown guarantee” that was written into the regional agreement expired in 2019. The regional agreement allows the superintendent to make exceptions to this, and the school committee would have to formally take action to make a change. However, there is already a possibility that in a few more years, Blanchard would not have enough room for all of the Boxborough students to attend Blanchard if they chose.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough News: A-B School Committee Amends FY2026 Budget, Hears “A-B Forward” Updates

At their June 12 meeting, the Acton-Boxborough Regional School Committee voted to amend the FY2026 budget to reflect additional anticipated revenue from the state.
  The state revenue will be used to reduce the assessments to Acton and Boxborough by a total of $150,000 and the remaining $237,890 will increase the budget to restore or add student-facing positions that were not funded in the original budget. School Committee Chair Adam Klein thanked the Committee members, teacher and staff members, and community members who advocated at the state level for additional funding to increase the budget this year.
  Superintendent Peter Light gave the Committee an update about the district’s strategic planning and reorganization process, which has been renamed “A-B Forward” to make sure “the name we give to the group actually is reflective of the work the group is doing.”
  There are two phases to the A-B Forward project. The first phase is the development of a strategic plan. The second phase, which will begin in the fall, will focus on “possible concepts for reorganization.” A community survey regarding phase one, the strategic plan, will be open through mid-July.
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 

Boxborough News: A-B School Committee Amends FY2026 Budget, Hears “A-B Forward” Updates

At their June 12 meeting, the Acton-Boxborough Regional School Committee voted to amend the FY2026 budget to reflect additional anticipated revenue from the state.
  The state revenue will be used to reduce the assessments to Acton and Boxborough by a total of $150,000 and the remaining $237,890 will increase the budget to restore or add student-facing positions that were not funded in the original budget. School Committee Chair Adam Klein thanked the Committee members, teacher and staff members, and community members who advocated at the state level for additional funding to increase the budget this year.
  Superintendent Peter Light gave the Committee an update about the district’s strategic planning and reorganization process, which has been renamed “A-B Forward” to make sure “the name we give to the group actually is reflective of the work the group is doing.”
  There are two phases to the A-B Forward project. The first phase is the development of a strategic plan. The second phase, which will begin in the fall, will focus on “possible concepts for reorganization.” A community survey regarding phase one, the strategic plan, will be open through mid-July.
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 

Boxborough News: Kirby Dolak Retires from Littleton Community Television (LCTV)

After 12 ½ years with LCTV, Kirby Dolak, Video Production Supervisor, retires from a career of service to the residents of Littleton and Boxborough. 
 The journey started in 1976. Having graduated from Penn State with a Bachelor of Science degree in Parks and Recreation, Dolak set out to make a difference in the administration of park systems, environmental centers, and commercial recreation. Soon after graduating, Dolak secured a position as an Education Assistant at the New England Aquarium. His real goal was a position with the National Park Service, but at the time, they weren’t hiring; so, Dolak pivoted and started to explore the computer industry.  
  Purely by chance, he took a workshop in 2012 at LCTV and found himself in video production. He started out on a part-time basis, covering meetings for Littleton. That evolved into a full-time position as a video production supervisor when Boxborough approached LCTV in 2013/2014 to record Select Board meetings and Annual Town Meetings.
    Never satisfied with the status-quo, Dolak pushed the Boxborough Planning Board, Finance Committee and, most recently, the Fire Station Building Committee, to record their meetings. To expand virtual meetings to more boards and committees, Dolak recommended a cloud-based system called “OWL,” used in conjunction with the Town’s Zoom accounts. The OWL technology further improved transparency by and between town committees and Boxborough residents. 
  Sometimes, it seems like Dolak is everywhere all at once; whether it’s Winterfest, the Memorial Day Parade or Fifer’s Day, Dolak is ever present with his video equipment and camera, capturing special moments in the lives of Boxborough residents.
   At Annual Town Meeting in May 2025, Boxborough Town Administrator Michael Johns presented Dolak with a “Lifetime Achievement Award,” which reads in part, “We are so thankful for all that you have done, given of your heart and total dedication to the Town of Boxborough. The level of coverage and media engagement in Town would not be where it is without you.” 
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough News: Boxborough Leadership Forum Debriefs Annual Town Meeting

On Tuesday, June 17, members of the Select Board, Planning Board, and Fire Station Building Committee (FSBC) took their seats at a large U-shaped table in the Grange room at Town Hall to discuss potential zoning changes that would allow for the building of a new fire station in Boxborough.
  By the end of the 90-minute meeting, the Planning Board agreed to take on the task of finding a zoning solution that would allow a fire station to be built and conduct public hearings accordingly.
  The meeting was called by the FSBC in order to regroup and move forward after Town Meeting in May, where the town failed to pass two articles related to the fire station project: (1) a zoning amendment that would allow municipal governmental zoning across all zoning districts and (2) design funding for the fire station at 72 Stow Road.
  FSBC Chair Mary Brolin began the meeting by explaining that the FSBC is looking again at multiple locations for the fire station and that the town’s current understanding is that it cannot build a fire station at any location without a zoning amendment. Brolin said that in order to find a path forward for the fire station, the FSBC needs the Planning Board to put forward a zoning solution that will allow a fire station to be built at the potential locations. She asked Planning Board members to share what kind of zoning changes they might be willing to put forward and on what timeline.
  Planning Board Chair Rebecca Verner and other members of the Planning Board shared thoughts on several potential solutions, including special permits, a “public safety overlay,” and different ways to structure a zoning amendment.
  However, they emphasized that they cannot commit to having a solution ready for an October town meeting, as they need to allow sufficient time for the town to participate in public hearings. The Planning Board also noted that they have competing projects that are also time-sensitive, like MBTA Communities Act compliance.
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough News: Boxborough Leadership Forum Debriefs Annual Town Meeting

  On June 10, the Boxborough Leadership Forum (BLF) held its third meeting since its reinstatement earlier this year. A group of eight participants discussed takeaways from Annual Town Meeting in May, including what went well, what could be improved, and what to consider  for upcoming Special Town Meetings this fall.
  Town Moderator Dennis Reip led the discussion, which included input from participants Kristin Hilberg (Select Board Chair), Bob Stemple (Select Board), Maria Neyland (Finance Committee, Fire Station Building Committee), Becky Neville (Finance Committee), Rebecca Verner (Planning Board Chair), Cindy Markowitz (Planning Board), Liz Fowlks (School Committee) and Mary Brolin (Library Trustees Chair, Fire Station Building Committee Chair). 
  The group discussed strategies for increasing Town Meeting attendance; alternative voting methods - like electronic “clickers” - and their downsides; increasing the amount of time for presentations on certain types of warrant articles; and childcare during Town Meeting.
  The group also discussed the votes on Article 1 (Municipal Governmental Zoning Allowed Across All Zoning Districts) and Article 2 (72 Stow Road Firehouse Design & Bid Funding), with members expressing different takeaways about the vote margins and differing conclusions about what the town wants in terms of a new fire station.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 

Boxborough News: Public Celebrations Committee Selects Golden Fife and Parade Marshal for Fifer’s Day

 At its meeting on Wednesday, June 11, the Public Celebrations and Ceremonies Committee (PCCC) met to review the many nominations that were received for the Golden Fife and Parade Marshal awards. The Golden Fife Award is presented annually to a Boxborough resident who has demonstrated long-term volunteer service to the town. The parade marshal is awarded to a resident or non-resident who has done something exceptional for the town.
  After reviewing the numerous nominations and engaging in discussion, the Committee selected the winners. Town tradition holds that the recipients’ names are kept secret until the Fifer’s Day Parade, which steps off from Blanchard School at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 21. Both recipients will ride in the parade and will be formally recognized at Flerra Field.
  PCCC Chair Jennette Kollman shared her sentiments on the Fifer’s Day parade. “The Fifer’s Day Parade is more than just a walk through Boxborough; it’s a celebration of our community spirit and local pride. I encourage everyone to join the parade whether it is cheering from the sidelines and catching candy or marching along or riding bikes. Come join us and be a part of our annual tradition.”
  Boxborough will gather to celebrate the 57th Annual Fifer’s Day at Flerra Meadows next Saturday, June 21. The festivities include a road race, a parade, a volleyball tournament, and an old-fashioned fair with food, music, and booths. The event is jointly sponsored by the Boxborough District Minutemen Company and the Town of Boxborough's Public Celebrations and Ceremonies Committee.
      This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough News: Select Board Discusses Town Response to Local ICE Activity

At their meeting on June 9, the Boxborough Select Board discussed local U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in recent weeks, including alleged ICE activity on Massachusetts Avenue in Boxborough on May 30.
  After hearing from Boxborough Police Chief John Szewczyk and Well-Being Committee Chair Mary Pavlik, the Select Board requested that Town Administrator Michael Johns organize a working group to create protocols and compile resources regarding ICE operations for the Town of Boxborough and its residents.
  Select Board Chair Kristin Hilberg indicated that a Boxborough resident notified her that ICE agents appeared to detain two individuals at a residence on Massachusetts Avenue in Boxborough on May 30. Chief Szewczyk reported to the Board that ICE did not notify the Boxborough Police Department about any operation in Boxborough on May 30, and the Department has not received any information from ICE since that date.
  The Chief reiterated that the Boxborough Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws and does not aid federal agents in immigration enforcement activities, in accordance with the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court decision in Lunn v. Commonwealth.
  Well-Being Committee Chair Pavlik presented to the Board about potential town actions, including outreach to individuals affected by ICE operations and community awareness/education. The Board and residents in attendance discussed other resources that the town could potentially consult and incorporate, like Acton-Boxborough Regional School District protocols, the Town of Acton’s protocols, and Acton-Boxborough United Way resources. 
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Last Week in Boxborough News

Visit www.BoxboroughNews.org for the latest news stories and community features, as well as calendars and notices about local events in Boxborough and surrounding towns.
  Subscribe to receive a free weekly email newsletter from Boxborough News at https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.
  Last week’s Boxborough News headlines include:
  • Select Board Discusses Town Response to Local ICE Activity
  • Finance Committee Seeks Answers from Town Assessor on Property Inspections and Overlay Reserve Funding
  • Public Celebrations Committee Selects Golden Fife and Parade Marshal for Fifer’s Day
  • ABRSD School Committee Hears “Vision of a Graduate” and School Resource Officer Presentations
  • Boxborough Leadership Forum Debriefs Annual Town Meeting
  • RJ Grey 7th Graders Tackle Important Issues at Civics Engagement Fair
  • Pam’s Gardening Tips: How to Deal with Deer in the Garden
  • Countdown to Fifer’s Day 2025
  • Zoning Board of Appeals Hears Special Permit Application for 975 Mass Ave.

Boxborough Teen Completes Eagle Scout Project at Liberty Fields

In late May, Boxborough resident and Acton-Boxborough Regional High School junior Prakhar “PK” Shukla installed wooden picnic tables and benches at Boxborough’s Liberty Fields, the culmination of a nine-month project undertaken as part of his journey to achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.
  Shukla designed, led, and completed the building and installation of three tables and three benches to “provide comfortable spots for spectators to watch games, families to gather for picnics, and people playing pickleball, basketball, or exercising in general to relax and enjoy the surroundings.”
  Shukla added, “Benches and picnic tables foster a sense of community by encouraging people to stay longer, interact more, and fully appreciate the outdoor environment. They create opportunities for people to come together, meet someone new, and relax without having to sit on the ground and worry about getting their belongings dirty.”
  Shukla worked with “Eagle Mentor” Mark Matson to complete his project. Matson supplied Shukla with tools and equipment for the building process and taught him about carpentry. “I learned a lot about wood and its properties like how it is structured, where to cut, and how to use certain aspects to your advantage,” said Shukla. Shukla also enjoyed working with younger scouts throughout the process and teaching them how to use carpentry tools.  
  Shukla chose Liberty Field improvements for his Eagle Scout project because of all the time he spent there when he first moved to Boxborough in sixth grade.
      This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Planning Board Opens Public Hearing for Continued Development at The Park at Beaver Brook, Opines on MBTA Communities Zoning Compliance

 
On Monday, June 2, the Boxborough Planning Board held their first meeting after the town election, welcoming new member, Chris Dowdy, and opened its first public hearing for the renewal of a Special Permit Application received from Campanelli-Trigate LLC for the buildout of The Park at Beaver Brook, the former Cisco campus.
  Cisco had originally permitted 1,400,000 square feet of commercial development under a previously granted special permit, but that permit has lapsed, and the property was not fully developed.
  Campanelli’s application includes plans to develop all of the parcels on the property, except for 100 and 900 Beaver Brook Road.
  Campanelli team members walked the board through the application, reviewing the history of the property, previous permits, and the proposed plan. They are seeking to reinstate the lapsed Open Space Commercial Development (OSCD) Special Permit with “minor modifications to parking,” and as part of the application, they are proposing to put an additional 94 acres into conservation/open space restriction in return for 667,500 square feet of new development, which translates to the construction of five new buildings.
  The application states that “all uses intend to be compliant with the bylaw and will consist of Research & Development / Light Manufacturing/ Office uses.” The property is in the Office Park (OP) zone, and all of the proposed uses are permitted by right. If the OSCD Special Permit is approved, the applicant will need to seek site plan approval for each of the buildings they plan to construct.
        This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Boxborough Minutemen Prepare for Fifer’s Day 2025

It’s June, and that means Fifer’s Day is just around the corner. Fifer’s Day 2025 will take place on Saturday, June 21, at Flerra Meadows on Stow Road.
  The festivities start at 9:30 a.m. with the Fifer’s Four Mile Road Race, followed by a parade kicking off at 11 a.m. from the Blanchard School to Flerra Meadows, where the Golden Fife Award will be presented at noon.
  Hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, sausages, soft drinks, beer, and hard cider will be available for purchase starting at noon, and a volleyball tournament will start at 1 p.m.
  Throughout the afternoon, there will be live music by Rocky Woods Express and Final Mile, plenty of activities for kids, and more than 50 different booths and exhibits.
  The event is jointly sponsored by the Boxborough District Minutemen Company and the Town of Boxborough's Public Celebrations and Ceremonies Committee.
  The Fifer’s Day tradition goes back to 1967, when the newly-formed Boxborough District Minutemen Company celebrated the first “Fifer’s Festival” to commemorate local contributions to the American Revolution. While the town of Boxborough did not exist during the American Revolution, namesake fifer Luther Blanchard lived in the portion of Littleton that later became Boxborough.
  Fifer’s Day has grown considerably since the 1960s, but it remains true to its roots: a parade, a cookout, activities for the kids … a quintessential small-town party.
  Boxborough News spoke with Minuteman Captain Chad Childers about how the Minutemen prepare for Fifer’s Day.
      This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Town Officials, Well-Being Committee Respond After Alleged ICE Operation in Boxborough

On Friday, May 30th, Assistant Town Administrator (ATA) Rajon Hudson and Community Services Coordinator (CSC) Wendy Trinks received a call from Select Board Chair Kristin Hilberg about a possible but unconfirmed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation at a Boxborough residence that morning.
  Trinks, who assists many Boxborough residents with Town social services, recognized the address provided by Hilberg and became concerned that a child or other family members at that residence may need assistance. With Hilberg’s input, Trinks and Hudson quickly created a flyer that included “know your rights” information; a list of resources available from the town and the United Church of Christ (UCC) Boxborough; contact information for Trinks and the UCC Boxborough, and a message from the town: “We care about you.” Trinks and Hudson left the flyer at the residence later that day.
  According to Hudson, the town does not currently have a policy or protocol to follow for this situation. When asked about Friday’s events, Hudson expressed that the town would be well-served to have a process to help people who need support in emergency situations like this, where an ICE operation may leave individuals in need of assistance. 
  The Boxborough Well-Being Committee discussed Friday’s incident and the town’s response at their meeting on Monday, June 2. Committee members were joined by Reverend Fran Graveson from UCC Boxborough, Police Chief John Szewczyk, ATA Hudson, Select Board Chair Kristin Hilberg, and Select Board Clerk Bob Stemple.
  The committee agreed that the town should invoke a policy and process to support Boxborough residents affected by ICE operations and to define Trinks’ role, as she is the primary resource for residents who need social services.
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Last Week in Boxborough News

 Visit www.BoxboroughNews.org for the latest news stories and community features, as well as calendars and notices about local events in Boxborough and surrounding towns.
  Subscribe to receive a free weekly email newsletter from Boxborough News at https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.
  Last week’s Boxborough News headlines include:
  • Town Officials, Well-Being Committee Respond After Alleged ICE Operation in Boxborough
  • Planning Board Opens Public Hearing for Continued Development at The Park at Beaver Brook, Opines on MBTA Communities Zoning Compliance
  • Economic Development Committee Discusses Business Grant Program Updates and Village Center “Tactical Urbanism”
  • Boxborough Minutemen Prepare for Fifer’s Day 2025
  • Boxborough Teen Completes Eagle Scout Project at Liberty Fields
  • Meditations with Ann: Tree Pose in Yoga
  • Pam’s Gardening Tips: Doin’ the Chelsea Chop

Boxborough Community Garden Plots at Flerra Meadows and Middle Road Still Available

At its meeting on Wednesday, May 27, the Boxborough Agricultural Commission (Ag Com) discussed the status of the community garden plots at Flerra Meadows and on Middle Road (at the intersection of Depot Road). The Ag Com oversees both gardens.  
  Plots at both gardens are still available. Gardeners can request a 10 x 20 foot plot ($20) or a 20 x 20 foot plot ($30). To request a plot at the Flerra Garden, fill out the application on the Town website. To request a plot at the Middle Road Garden, send an email to middleroadgarden@gmail.com.
  The two gardens differ slightly from each other in a few ways. The Flerra Garden is one of the many uses at Flerra Meadow Conservation Land, which is under the Conservation Commission’s purview. The Conservation Commission has given the Ag Com the ability to run the garden, but since the garden is on conservation land, gardeners are required to use organic practices and must comply with rules and regulations regarding the use of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides.
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Acton-Boxborough Seniors Awarded $150,000 in Local Scholarships

  Almost 400 people gathered in the Acton-Boxborough High School (ABRHS) auditorium on Wednesday, May 21, for Scholarship Night, an annual ceremony where members of the ABRHS senior class are awarded scholarships sponsored by local organizations. More than 80 scholarships from 67 different organizations were awarded.
  Graduating seniors complete their applications in February, and the scholarship committee composed of administrators, teachers, and counselors determine which students have met the criteria for each scholarship. Students are formally invited to the ceremony, but they do not know which scholarship they are receiving. It is a well-kept secret until the student’s name is called!
  The evening began with a welcome from ABRHS Principal Joanie Dean, who acknowledged all of the students’ hard work, parental support, and the generosity of the community for establishing and funding the scholarships, which totaled approximately $150,000.
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.

ABRSD School Committee Discusses Strategic Planning and High School Cell Phone Policies

  At its meeting on May 22, the Acton-Boxborough Regional School Committee voted to establish a steering committee for the district’s Strategic Planning and Reorganization project, initiated in response to ongoing budget challenges.
  The steering committee of 19 administrators, school committee members, educators, and parents is expected to meet monthly to support and guide the district’s work with consultant District Management Group “to create an updated strategic plan as well as a set of three to five actionable options for district reorganization.”
  The steering committee meetings will be open to the public. Superintendent Light noted that the steering committee is not as representative of the community as he had hoped, but that there are plans to get a more diverse group of community members involved. Light also stressed the importance of communication throughout the project and outlined his plan to keep educators and families updated.
  Community members are encouraged to visit a new website dedicated to this initiative, at https://www.abschools.org/district/strategic_planning___reorganization_-_2025. The site includes news and updates about the project, a calendar of the steering committee meetings, and a mechanism to submit public comments.
  The School Committee also heard from ABRSD High School Principal Joanie Dean about proposed changes to the 2025-26 ABRHS Student Handbook, including a new cell phone storage policy.
  This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe. 

Boxborough Select Board Considers Next Steps on Fire Station and Municipal Zoning, Schedules Joint Board Meeting and Two Special Town Meetings

At its meeting on May 28, the Boxborough Select Board debriefed on the defeat of Article 1 (to allow municipal governmental zoning across all zoning districts) and Article 2 (to borrow $2.6 million for the design and bidding of a firehouse at 72 Stow Road) at the Special Town Meeting within Annual Town Meeting earlier this month.
  The Board heard from Priya Sundaram, Select Board member and Fire Station Building Committee (FSBC) member, who relayed the FSBC’s request for the Select Board to call a joint meeting between the Select Board, Planning Board, and FSBC to determine a path forward on the fire station project, particularly with respect to the municipal zoning changes needed to build a fire station. Board members agreed that such a meeting would be a good next step and tentatively scheduled it for June 17 or 18.
  The Board also discussed the dates and locations of this year’s Special Town Meetings (STMs). Expected STM topics include a proposal for Boxborough’s compliance with the state’s MBTA Communities Act requirements, another attempt at a zoning bylaw change to address municipal government zoning, and another proposal regarding the fire station project.
  The Board decided, in consultation with Town Planner Alec Wade, that mid-October is the best time for an MBTA Communities vote, with a contingency plan for a second STM in December, if needed. The deadline for compliance with the MBTA Communities Act is December 30, 2025.
  The December STM may also be used for the other two topics – municipal zoning and the fire station – if those proposals are not ready in time for the October STM. The tentative dates for the two STMs are October 21 and December 8. 
    This article has been condensed for print. Read the full version of this article at www.BoxboroughNews.org. Subscribe to the free weekly newsletter from Boxborough News to read all of our articles:  https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.  

Last Week in Boxborough News

Visit www.BoxboroughNews.org for the latest news stories and community features, as well as calendars and notices about local events in Boxborough and surrounding towns.
  Subscribe to receive a free weekly email newsletter from Boxborough News at https://www.boxboroughnews.org/subscribe.
  Last week’s Boxborough News headlines include:
  • Select Board Considers Next Steps on Fire Station and Municipal Zoning, Schedules Joint Board Meeting and Two Special Town Meetings
  • Newly Elected Volunteers Take Their Seats on Town Boards
  • Community Garden Plots at Flerra Meadows and Middle Road Still Available
  • ABRSD School Committee Discusses Strategic Planning and High School Cell Phone Policies
  • Acton-Boxborough Seniors Awarded $150,000 in Local Scholarships
  • Recreation Commission Updates: Flerra Summer Playground and Damage to Pickleball Nets
  • Sustainability Matters: Food Waste 
  • Boxborough Celebrates Memorial Day with Annual Parade
  • Pam’s Gardening Tips: Native vs. Non-Native Plants

Trusting Jesus in a WILD World… Join us for VBS this Summer!

Let’s explore how to trust Jesus together during True North Vacation Bible School! Mt. Calvary Church, Acton, MA is offering a fun one-week Vacation Bible School (VBS) program August 4–8, 9 AM–12 Noon daily. Children age 3 through entering Grade 5 in the fall of 2025 are invited to participate. We will play games, make crafts, laugh together, have fun singing and dancing, and more! VBS gives kids the unique opportunity to encounter Jesus’ love for everyone alongside friends and adult mentors in an exciting setting. This free program is especially for kids to discover who God is, grow their own Christian faith, and experience Christ’s love with friends and neighbors. Sign up with a friend and get ready to learn to trust Jesus in a wild world!

Sign up soon, space is limited! Registration details along with more information can be found at www.mtcalvaryacton.org/vbs. Questions – call the church at 978-263-5156 or email our VBS Director, Virginia Vestigo at vbs@mtcalvaryacton.org. Mt. Calvary Church is located at 472 Massachusetts Avenue, Acton. Parking (including handicap) is available behind the church, off Prospect Street.