On the agenda: Littleton meeting — data center (Oct 5)

Town of Littleton
Select Board

Received: AS
Date/Time: 10/1/26 – 4:10 PM
Revised:
Date/Time:

AGENDA
October 5, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Littleton Town Offices – 37 Shattuck Street, Room 103
Notice of public meeting as required by M.G.L. Chpt.30A §18-28

Public meetings may be broadcast live, streamed live, or recorded for later playback on LCTV and/or the Internet.
PARTICIPANTS/ATTENDEES ARE REMINDED THAT BY JOINING THIS MEETING THAT YOU CONSENT TO YOUR
LIKENESS AND AUDIO BEING USED AND REBROADCAST BY LCTV. If attending virtually, please identify your screen
name with your full name. This is to protect the integrity of the meeting. Attendees of all public meetings should be aware of
Massachusetts Recording Law M.G.L. Ch. 20A §20 (f)* if they are personally considering recording any part of a meeting or a
meeting in its entirety. The listings of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair 48 hours before said meeting, which
may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may be discussed. Items may be taken out of order and differ from those
listed below. Other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.

6:30 PM

1. Organization / Pledge of Allegiance / Read Mail

6:35 PM

2. Department/Board Updates and Requests
A. Discussion and possible vote on G.L. c. 268A, § 19(b)(1) Disclosure and Determination
for Zoning Board of Appeals Chairperson Regarding Pending Boston Gas
Company/National Grid Variance Application

6:50 PM

3. Public Input/Members’ Updates
Public Input will last for 10 minutes, and speakers are allowed to speak for no longer than 2
minutes. Speakers addressing the Select Board are required to do so from the podium and provide
name and address for the record, and all comments must be made through the Chair.
The Select Board will also provide updates, as warranted, on the following projects:
• Flock Security Cameras
• Nagog Orchard
• Charter Committee
• Village Common Zoning District

7:05 PM

4. Appointments
A. Appoint Kim Hall to the Clean Lakes Committee as the Spectacle Pond Alternate
B. Appoint Mila Veilleux to the Historical Commission

7:10 PM

5. Select Board Discussions
A. Discussion and assignment of two Select Board Members to the TIF (Tax Increment
Financing) Committee
B. Vote to approve Town Charter
C. Presentation and Discussion Regarding an Alternate Process for Collection of Certain
Fines under M.G.L. c. 40U

7:30 PM

6. Informational Presentations
A. Historical Commission – Presentation of Historic Preservation Awards

7:45 PM

7. Town Administrator Update
A. Update on Municipal operations, projects and initiatives

8:00 PM

8. Minutes
A. Approve the minutes of September 23, 2026 and September 28, 2026

8:05 PM

ANTICIPATED ADJOURNMENT

*After notifying the chair of the public body, any person may make a video or audio recording of an open session of a meeting
of a public body, or may transmit the meeting through any medium, subject to reasonable requirements of the chair as to the
number, placement and operation of equipment used so as not to interfere with the conduct of the meeting. At the beginning of
the meeting, the chair shall inform other attendees of any recordings.

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

1

MAIL
Requested by: James A. Duggan, Town Administrator

Proposed Motion(s)
None are anticipated at this time.
Additional Information
Included in the Board’s packet is:
1. Current Openings on Town Boards
2. Select Board Office Hours
3. DPW – Seeking Plow Contractors
4. Flu/Covid Flyer
5. Ayer Public Hearing Notice

Action Sought: None anticipated

TOWN OF LITTLETON

Received: AS
Date/Time: 9/11/26 – 11:40 AM
Revised:
Date/Time:

PUBLIC NOTICE

CURRENT VACANCIES ON TOWN BOARDS
Applications are invited from residents of the Town of Littleton for the following Town board
positions appointed by the Select Board. Application forms are available online at
https://littletonmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php or at the Office of the Select Board/Town
Administrator - Town of Littleton, 37 Shattuck Street, Littleton, MA 01460. Application
submissions will be accepted and interviews/appointments will be made by the Select Board on a
rolling basis until the positions are filled.

APPOINTED BY THE SELECT BOARD:
• AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION
One (1) citizen-at-large - term expiring June 30, 2027
One (1) citizen-at-large - term expiring June 30, 2028
• CLEAN LAKES COMMITTEE
One (1) Mill Pond Alternate – term expiring June 30, 2027
One (1) Spectacle Pond Alternate – term expiring June 30, 2029
• COMMITTEE FOR THE EXPLORATION OF REAL ESTATE TAX RELIEF
FOR SENIORS
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2027
• CULTURAL COUNCIL
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2028
• DISABILITY COMMISSION
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2027
• ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
(Three) 3 members – No expiration date
• HISTORICAL COMMISSION
One (1) member – Term expiring June 30, 2029
• PERMANENT MUNICIPAL BUILDING COMMITTEE
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
• PERSONNEL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2028
• SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
• ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
One (1) alternate - term expiring June 30, 2027
One (1) alternate – term expiring June 30, 2029
LITTLETON SELECT BOARD
GARY WILSON, CHAIR

TOWN OF LITTLETON
OFFICE OF THE

SELECT BOARD
37 SHATTUCK STREET, P.O. BOX 1305
LITTLETON, MASSACHUSETTS 01460
(978) 540-2460

Select Board Office Hours
Select Board Office Hours are scheduled for the following dates. All office hours will take place at the
Reuben Hoar Library in the Historical Room unless indicated otherwise.
Wednesday, October 21st from 4:00-6:00 with Mark Rambacher
Friday, October 30th from 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday, November 6th from 10:30-12:00 with Karen Morrison
Wednesday, November 18th from 4:00-6:00 with Mark Rambacher
Friday, December 4th from 1:00-2:30 with Karen Morrison
Wednesday, December 16th from 4:00-6:00 with Mark Rambacher
Friday, December 18th from 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Wednesday, January 20th from 4:00-6:00 with Mark Rambacher
Friday January 29th 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Wednesday, February 17th from 4:00-6:00 with Mark Rambacher
Friday, February 26th 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Wednesday, March 17th from 4:00-6:00 with Mark Rambacher
Friday, March 26th 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Wednesday, April 21st from 4:00-6:00 with Mark Rambacher
Friday, 30th April 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Wednesday, May 19th from 4:00-6:00 with Mark Rambacher
Friday, May 28th 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp

DPW SEEKING SNOW PLOW
CONTRACTORS FOR THE
2026-2027 WINTER SEASON

-

PACKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DPW OFFICE @ 39 AYER ROAD, ON THE
DPW WEBSITE OR CALL 978-540-2670 FOR INFORMATION

-

RATES BEGIN AT $115/HOUR AND UP TO $175/HOUR DEPENDING ON
EQUIPMENT

-

INCENTIVE SIGN UP BONUS OF $1,000

LITTLETON
Stay Healthy
This Season! HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Come &
Get Your
Flu and
COVID
Shots!

Protect yourself, your
family, and your
community by getting
your annual flu and/or
COVID shot. It’s quick,
safe, and the best defense
against the flu and COVID.

Wednesday

October 7th & 14th
3pm-6pm

Flu available for ages 5+,
COVID available for ages 12+
Pre-registration is
encouraged!
Offering flu (both regular
and high-dose) and COVID
(Pfizer)

Littleton Senior Center
33 Shattuck Street
Bring your insurance card
and ID to your
appointment
A parent/guardian is
required for those ages 17
and younger

To register, go to bit.ly/littletonclinics or you
may register by phone with office staff at
(978) 540-2430 or (978) 540-2470!
Sponsored by the Littleton Board of Health, in partnership
with the Littleton Volunteer Corps, Ayer Family Pharmacy,
and the Littleton Elder and Human Services.

2A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

Department/Board Updates and Requests
Discussion and possible vote on G.L. c. 268A, § 19(b)(1)
Disclosure and Determination for Zoning Board of Appeals
Chairperson Regarding Pending Boston Gas Company/National
Grid Variance Application
Requested by: ZBA Chair, Sherrill Gould

Action Sought: Discussion/Approval

Proposed Motion(s)
YES:
MOVE that the Select Board, pursuant to G.L. c. 268A, § 19, determine that the
financial interest of Zoning Board of Appeals Chair Sherrill R. Gould in the pending
Boston Gas Company/National Grid variance matter is not so substantial that it is likely
to affect the integrity of her services to the municipality and permit her to participate in
the matter, and authorize the Select Board Chair to sign the determination on behalf of
the Board.
NO:
MOVE that the Select Board, pursuant to G.L. c. 268A, § 19, determine that the
financial interest of Zoning Board of Appeals Chair Sherrill R. Gould in the pending
Boston Gas Company/National Grid variance matter is so substantial that it is likely to
affect the integrity of her services to the municipality and do not permit her to participate
in the matter.

Additional Information
The ZBA Chair has submitted a disclosure under G.L. c. 268A, § 19 regarding her
participation in a pending variance application. As the appointing authority, the Select Board
must decide whether the disclosed financial interest is significant enough to affect the ZBA
Chair’s ability to perform her duties fairly and impartially.

This decision relates only to whether the Chair may participate in the matter and not to the
merits of the variance application.
If the Board determines that the financial interest in question is not so substantial that it is
likely to affect the integrity of the Chair's services to the municipality, the Chair may
participate. If the Board determines that the financial interest in question is so substantial
that it is likely to affect the integrity of the Chair's services to the municipality, the disclosure
is not signed, and she may not participate under the § 19 exemption.

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

2

4A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

Appointments
Appoint Kim Hall to the Clean Lakes Committee as the Spectacle Pond
Alternate
Requested by: Select Board

Action Sought: Interview/Appoint

Proposed Motion(s)
MOVE that the Select Board vote to appoint Kim Hall to the Clean Lakes Committee as
the Spectacte Pond Alternate for a term expiring June 30, 2029.
Additional Information
The Select Board has one (1) vacancy to consider for the Clean Lakes Committee for a
term expiring June 30, 2029
Attached is an application from:
• Kim Hall
The applicant has been invited to attend the Select Board meeting. Attendance is
optional.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

4B

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

Appointments
Appoint Mila Veilleux to the Historical Commission
Requested by: Select Board

Action Sought: Interview/Appoint

Proposed Motion(s)
MOVE that the Select Board vote to appoint Mila Veilleux to the Historical Commission
for a term expiring June 30, 2029.
Additional Information
The Select Board has one (1) vacancy to consider for the Historical Commission for a
term expiring June 30, 2029
Attached is an application from:
• Mila Veilleux
The applicant has been invited to attend the Select Board meeting. Attendance is
optional.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Littleton, MA
37 Shattuck Street
Phone: (978) 540-2460

Member Application Form
Good Government Starts with You

Date Submitted: September 27, 2026
Name: Mila M Veilleux
Home Address: 148 Goldsmith Street
LITTLETON, MA 01460
Mailing Address: 148 Goldsmith Street
LITTLETON, MA 01460
Phone Number(s):
Email Address:
Have you previously been a member of a Board, Committee or Commission (either in the Littleton, MA or elsewhere)?No
If yes, please list the Board name and your approximate dates of service:

Current Occupation/Employer: retired
Narrative: I am retired so I have quite a bit of time and am very flexible. I have a BA in History and one in
Philosophy and an MA in Theology and one Church History so I am very familiar with research.
I understand the value of historical preservation for primary sources and other physical artifacts
and wish to preserve things for future generations to learn about. I am especially interested in
cultural history and have experience with oral documentation as well.
Board(s) / Committee(s): ___HISTORICAL COMMISSION

Page 1/1

5A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

Select Board Discussions
Discussion and assignment of two Select Board Members to the
TIF (Tax Increment Financing) Committee
Requested by: Town Administrator, James Duggan

Action Sought: Discussion/Approval

Proposed Motion(s)
MOVE that the Select Board vote to assign _______ and _______ to the TIF (Tax
Increment Financing) Committee.
Additional Information

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

5B

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

Select Board Discussions
Vote to approve Town Charter
Requested by: Kyle Bubp

Action Sought: Discussion/Approval

Proposed Motion(s)
MOVE that the Select Board vote to approve the Town Charter
Additional Information
Included in the packet is the Town Charter document.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

5C

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

Select Board Discussions
Presentation and Discussion Regarding an Alternate Process for
Collection of Certain Fines under M.G.L. c. 40U
Requested by: Town Administrator, James Duggan

Action Sought: Discussion/Approval

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion dependent.
Additional Information

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Littleton Code Enforcement:
40U Overview
Prepared and Presented by Peter A. Brown, Esq. and Joseph P. Ertl, Esq.

Overview/Preview
I. Expansion of Existing and Successful Code Enforcement
II. Recommended System

2

Describing the Problem
1. Abandoned Properties/Neglected by Owners
2. Bank Owned/Controlled Properties
3. No Accessible Equity to Owner
4. Tickets against the Person Don’t Work
5. Tickets against the Bank Don’t Work

SOLUTION :Getting to the equity is the key to compliance
3

Describing the Problem
Broader Applications of Chapter 40U
1. Stalled repairs or demolition after fire
1. Properties with history of criminal activities and numerous code violations
(trash, unregistered vehicles, illegal scrapping, arson, theft, drug activity)
2. Highrise buildings with issues like non-operational elevators for elderly and
disabled residents
3. Commercial properties with zoning and sanitary code violations (depending
on the circumstances)
4

Goal of the Program
• Provide a Legal Process designed to maximize the ability for the Town to address
properties out of code compliance
• Expanding the existing code enforcement framework to provide necessary tools to
handle the most problematic properties
• Ensure appeal-proof processes on inspections, corrective requirements, fines, liens,
and administrative warrants
• Lay out road to compliance
• Owner agrees to do all of the work contained in the Order to Correct (OTC) and pull
necessary permits
• Work is monitored and the case is closed when the work is completed and it’s
determined property is fully code compliant
• Operate at a cost-neutral and potentially revenue generating level
• Ensure success through cross-departmental belief and trust in the system
5

Recommended System
1. Operate under Chapter 40U
2. Transition ticketing under the State Sanitary Code for the
most troubled properties
3.Current systems remain in effect
• 40U is a complimentary tool when needed
6

Advantages of Chapter 40U
1. Ticketing against the property vs. the person
•

M.G.L. c. 40U – Up to $500.00

2. Minimal Court involvement
•
•

Fines imposed through an administrative hearing process
Liens secured as a matter of law

3. More control
• Everything is brought in-house

7

Authority under the State Sanitary Code
• State Sanitary Code has the most potent authority (105 CMR 410.000 et seq.)
• Foundation for the strongest Orders to Correct
• Easiest path to get to the owner’s Tax Bill
• Backs up plan of action (i.e., Administrative Search Warrants, Receiverships, etc.)
• Vast majority of Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Code violations are also violations
of the State Sanitary Code

8

9

Terminology for Ticketing Status (MGL. c. 40U)
CODE TICKET

40U LIEN

TAX BILL

TAX TITLE

Within 51 days of
issuance or pending
MHO appeal

Gone through 40U
flowchart without
payment/not fully
appealed; Lien
against RE – just like
an overdue
water/sewer bill​

Unpaid lien added to
the actual bill(s)

Property has a
recorded tax taking

10

Most Problematic Properties/Code
Enforcement Task Force
• Special process for the Worst of the Worst Properties
•
•
•
•
•

Title Check (determine legal owners and interested parties)
Collecting Evidence via thorough inspections
ASW
Detailed Orders to Correct
Follow Ups with appropriate Code Enforcement and monitoring
until full compliance (could include: ticketing, condemnations,
demolition orders if/when applicable)

Personnel and Resources
• Code Enforcement Team: Building, Health, Fire, and Legal
• Tickets: Issuance, Delivery, Letters
• Ticket Tracking: Keeping Spreadsheet, 30 day Letters, Monitoring Appeals
• Hearings: MHO, Scheduling, Notice, Informing Owner of Decisions
• MLC Process and Communication System: Coordination with the Finance Dept.
• Funds for Emergency Clean Ups and Property Remediation to protect the neighborhood
12

Where to find us:
Website: www.brownlegalllc.com
Instagram: @brownlgalpllc
X: @brownlegalpllc
Facebook: Brown Legal PLLC
LinkedIn: Brown Legal PLLC
Email: [email protected] & [email protected]
13

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

6A

Informational Presentation
Presentation of Historic Preservation Awards
Requested by: Linda Stein, Chair Historical Commission

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion dependent.
Additional Information
Linda will present 4 Historic Preservation Awards.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Action Sought: None

7A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

Town Administrator Update
Update on municipal operations, projects and initiatives
Requested by: James A. Duggan, Town Administrator

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion dependent.
Additional Information

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Action Sought: Discussion

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

October 5, 2026

8A

Minutes Approval
Meeting Minutes for September 23, 2026 and September 28,
2026
Requested by: James A. Duggan, Town Administrator

Action Sought: Approval

Proposed Motion(s)
MOVE that the Select Board vote to approve the meeting minutes from the Select Board
Meetings on September 23, 2026 and September 28, 2026.
Additional Information
Included in the Board’s packet are draft minutes from the Select Board Meetings on
September 23, 2026 and September 28, 2026.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Select Board Meeting
Meeting Minutes
September 23, 2026, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

1. Organization / Pledge of Allegiance / Read Mail
The Chair called the Select Board Meeting to order at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. The
meeting was held as a joint session with the Finance Committee and representatives from the Community
Preservation Committee, Disability Commission, and Parks and Recreation Commission. The Chair led those in
attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance. No mail was received.

2. Joint Meeting – Fall Town Meeting Warrant
a. Review Warrant, Approve Order of Articles, Vote to Insert Articles,
Vote to Close Warrant, Direct Posting
Town Administrator James Duggan guided the joint boards through a review of the twelve warrant articles—ten
town-sponsored and two citizens' petitions—for the Fall Town Meeting scheduled for October 27, 2026. The
objective of the evening was to approve the warrant for printing and public distribution.
Article 1 – Payment of Prior Year Bills
Town Administrator Duggan introduced Article 1, a request to appropriate $1,170 for payment of a prior year
bill carried over from a previous fiscal year, which requires Town Meeting approval to be paid in a different
fiscal year. No substantive discussion followed. The Finance Committee and Select Board agreed to consolidate
their recommendations and vote at the end of the review.
Article 2 – Adoption of a Special Act Establishing a Town Charter
Town Administrator Duggan described Article 2 as authorization for the Select Board to petition the General
Court for the enactment of a special act establishing a town charter for Littleton. He explained that the primary
change introduced by the charter is the creation of a Town Manager position to serve as the chief administrative
officer, remaining accountable to the Select Board and overseeing day-to-day town operations.
Finance Committee Chair Steve Venuti raised a concern that the article's language did not clearly communicate
to the public what the charter change actually does. He suggested the description be expanded and
reformatted—possibly with bullet points—to make it more accessible. Select Board Member Karen Morrison
echoed this, suggesting the description lead with what is actually changing rather than what is staying the same.
Town Counsel Tom Harrington agreed to rewrite and expand the description, including providing a direct
hyperlink to the electronic version of the full charter document on the town's website. Given that the charter
runs approximately 30 pages, printing full copies in the warrant was deemed impractical.
Select Board Member Kyle Bubp clarified that the version being submitted had already been refined from the
original charter commission draft: provisions relating to elected versus appointed positions were removed, and
the charter as submitted primarily codifies existing practices—such as the reporting structure of department
heads to the Select Board—while formally establishing the Town Manager position. He noted that the full,
counsel-reviewed charter was still pending and would be posted online upon receipt.
Select Board Member Diane Crory expressed concern that the motion's language could mislead the public into
believing the entire charter was being adopted wholesale, and urged that the motion make clear that only
specific changes—primarily the Town Manager position—were being advanced at this time.
A broader discussion ensued regarding the future amendment process for the charter. Town Counsel's office
noted that, as a special act, amending the charter would require petitioning the legislature, though an alternative

process exists under Chapter 43B. The charter itself also provides for a mandatory review no less than every ten
years, with the next review point being years ending in six.
Given the pending counsel review and the need for revised public-facing language, the Select Board agreed to
proceed with the article subject to Town Counsel completing the revised description before the warrant went to
print.
Article 3 – Adoption of MGL Chapter 40U (Blighted and Neglected Properties)
Town Administrator Duggan introduced Article 3, a local option statute under MGL Chapter 40U, describing it
as a tool to address blighted and neglected properties through an internal municipal hearing process rather than
through the courts. Attorney Peter Brown, appearing remotely, provided an overview of the law.
Attorney Brown explained that Chapter 40U was enacted by the legislature in 2010 in response to the
foreclosure crisis and was designed to give municipalities a more modern and effective enforcement mechanism.
Under the law, code violations could be handled through a municipal hearing officer rather than going directly
to district court, saving time and cost. Fines issued under 40U would attach to the property—not just the
individual—meaning they could ultimately appear on the property tax bill, creating stronger incentive for
compliance. Attorney Brown emphasized that the law does not create new substantive violations; it provides a
more efficient enforcement vehicle for violations already on the books under the state sanitary code (105 CMR
410).
Several board members raised substantive concerns. Chair noted that the article had first appeared before the
board only the prior week, without sufficient time for review or public input. Select Board Member Bubp
indicated he too wanted more information—specifically, how the Board of Health currently enforces such issues
and how large a problem this truly is in Littleton, noting that only about six properties had been identified.
Select Board Member Mark Rambacher questioned whether 40U was effectively a backdoor revival of a junk
property bylaw that had previously failed at Town Meeting, and whether the public would understand what they
were actually voting on.
A Littleton resident, Jane Gomes, of 71 New Estate Road, spoke passionately in favor of the article. She
described a decades-long struggle with a neighboring property causing significant exterior hoarding and debris,
and stated that independent real estate analyses had consistently valued her home at $40,000–$50,000 less than
comparable properties elsewhere due to the neighboring conditions. She described the existing enforcement
process as "whack-a-mole," with individual violations addressed piecemeal while the broader problem persisted.
She acknowledged that fines alone are insufficient and that a collaborative, supportive approach to working with
affected property owners is necessary, but urged the board not to lose this opportunity for stronger enforcement
leverage. Resident Rob Rounce, 25 Juniper Road, also expressed strong support, noting he had personally
visited affected properties during his election campaign and had been anticipating this action since hearing it
discussed at the Select Board's June retreat.
Select Board Member Morrison expressed general support for proceeding, noting that Acton had passed a
similar article on its consent agenda and characterizing 40U primarily as an administrative change adding a tool
to the town's toolbox. She further noted that as the town grows, landlord-tenant situations will become more
prevalent and stronger enforcement tools will be needed.
Ultimately, the board could not reach consensus on recommending the article that evening. The board agreed to
leave Article 3 on the warrant without a formal recommendation, with the understanding that further education
and research would take place before Town Meeting and that the article could be pulled at that time if the board
remained insufficiently informed.
Article 4 – Trust Fund Appropriation: Universal Mental Health Screening Learning Lab
Finance Director Robin Healy presented Article 4, a request to appropriate $22,500 from two trust funds
administered by the Trust Fund Commission for a Universal Mental Health Screening Learning Lab. The Trust
Fund Commission had already voted to support the project. Finance Committee Chair Venuti requested that a
brief description of the program be added to the warrant so voters would understand what the lab entails.
Article 5 – Amendment of Prior Authorized Article (Fire Department Equipment)
Town Administrator Duggan introduced Article 5 as an amendment to an article approved at the May 2024
Annual Town Meeting, which had originally appropriated funds for the refurbishment of Engine 1. A balance of
approximately $67,856.29 remained, and the Fire Chief sought broader flexibility to apply those funds to repairs
and maintenance across the fleet rather than solely to Engine 1.

Finance Committee Chair Venuti noted that a Thursday working session with Select Board and Finance
Committee representatives had clarified the history: the funds originated from an article three town meetings
ago earmarked for Engine 1 maintenance. He expressed support for the article, though the Finance Committee
raised a question about whether it remained prudent to spend money maintaining Engine 1 given that a
replacement engine was on order—albeit still approximately one year from delivery. Town Administrator
Duggan confirmed the existing engine was still needed on the road in the interim, satisfying the committee's
concern.
Article 6 – Appropriation of Unanticipated Interest Funds
Town Administrator Duggan explained that the town had received approximately $100,000 in unanticipated
interest revenue, which must be spent—not merely identified—within the fiscal year. The proposed use was to
apply these funds to the 36 King Street HVAC heat pump installation project, with the intent of then freeing up
the $100,000 previously appropriated from free cash at the May Town Meeting, allowing that amount to fall
back to free cash.
Select Board Member Rambacher noted the article's motion was silent on what the funds would be used for,
describing it as simply an appropriation "for any legal purpose." Town Counsel confirmed the broad language
was lawful but agreed to narrow it at the board's request. Finance Committee Chair Venuti requested that the
specific intended use be stated either in the motion or the description.
Venuti also noted that once final numbers for ARPA funding and potential Green Communities energy credits
were known, the board should consider rescinding the remainder of the prior HVAC article and redirecting those
funds toward the capital plan for the current year's HVAC project rather than allowing them to fall to free cash.
Article 7 – Information Systems Department Salary Account Transfer
Town Administrator Duggan described Article 7 as a transfer of funds to reflect the reclassification of a staff
member from the Information Systems Department to the Town Administrator's office. Finance Committee
Chair Venuti requested that the description be updated to clearly tell that story—explaining that a person was
transferred between departments—rather than merely describing a fund transfer in the abstract.
Venuti also advised, based on discussions at a Thursday working session, that a separate overtime transfer
article for the Public Works Department that had appeared the prior week should simply be allowed to play out
through year-end, and that Article 7's amount had been reduced accordingly to reflect only the actual salary of
the transferred employee.
Article 8 – Transfer of Funds for Stormwater Utility Plan
Town Administrator Duggan introduced Article 8 as a transfer of approximately $50,000—the estimated
unspent balance from a prior Town Hall feasibility study appropriation—to fund the first phase of developing a
stormwater utility plan. He acknowledged that additional funds would be required in the future and that this
represented only an initial step.
DPW Director Stephen Jahnle, who had implemented a stormwater utility in Chelmsford, provided context. He
explained that the utility would calculate impervious surface area (rooftops, driveways, walkways) for every
property in town and establish a corresponding user fee to fund stormwater management obligations—an
enterprise fund separate from the general budget. He noted that federal EPA permitting requirements through
the MS4 permit have become increasingly stringent and that many regional communities had adopted
stormwater utilities around 2017 for precisely this reason.
The Chair acknowledged that this would result in a new fee for residents, distinct from a tax, and that the public
should be made aware of this through the capital plan. Finance Committee Chair Venuti requested that Jahnle
meet with Finance Director Healy and the Town Administrator to provide a cost framework based on the
Chelmsford experience, and suggested this item should appear in the capital plan going forward.
Finance Committee Chair Venuti also requested that the specific intended use of the funds be added to Article
8's description, consistent with the changes requested for Article 6.
Article 9 – Community Preservation Committee Articles
CPC Chair Carolyn Mueller presented Article 9, comprising the following items:
Item 1: $48,000 for herbicide treatment. Item 2: A designation to the CPC designated reserve (Mueller noted
"designated reserve" language should be added—an omission from her draft). Item 3: $500,000 borrowing

authorization for affordable senior housing at 410 Great Road. Item 4: A borrowing authorization for affordable
senior housing at 410 Great Road (subject to CPC vote, recorded separately below). Item 5: $458,000 ($150,000
from the undesignated reserve; $308,000 from the recreation reserve) for the gazebo replacement and ADAcompliant walkways, benches, and related improvements at Fay Park, inclusive of a landscape planning
component.
A discussion arose regarding Item 3/4 (the 410 Great Road housing borrowing) and whether the warrant article
should name the specific address or keep it general. Finance Director Healy confirmed that for borrowing
authorization purposes, a specific property address was required. The CPC voted formally on Item 4 (the
housing borrowing) during the meeting.
Motion by CPC Member Rob Rounce, seconded by CPC Member Sam, to approve the draft Town
Meeting warrant article for Article 9, Item 4 (affordable senior housing at 410 Great Road). Roll call vote:
Sanjay – Yes; Bartlet – Yes; Linda – Yes; Carolyn – Yes; Sam – Yes. Motion carried 5-0.
Finance Committee Chair Venuti noted that because this is a borrowing article and the debt service would
extend over ten or more years, it would be prudent to have a written agreement among the Affordable Housing
Trust, CPC, and the Select Board to ensure that the Affordable Housing Trust would cover any debt service
shortfall that CPC funds could not meet. Select Board Member Rambacher agreed but noted the protection
should be reciprocal. Town Counsel was tasked with drafting that agreement.
Regarding the Fay Park project (Item 5), Finance Committee Chair Venuti summarized the consensus from the
Thursday working session: the Select Board, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Disability Commission
would each designate two representatives to form a working group. Town Administrator Duggan would
coordinate the group through the Select Board's office to develop the vision, draft the RFP, and engage a
landscape architect.
Items 6 and 7: Mueller noted that two previously submitted Park and Recreation applications—for a Long Lake
fishing dock replacement and a swimming area dock—were being rescinded, returning approximately $57,436
to the recreation reserve, which would then be redirected to a replacement project valued at $117,000.
Items 8, 9, and 10: Rescission of balances remaining on completed projects, returning funds to the originating
reserve accounts.
Article 10 – Salary Schedule Reclassification Plan (Administrative Corrections)
Town Administrator Duggan described Article 10 as an administrative correction to Schedule A of the
compensation grid, adding positions inadvertently omitted and correcting existing job titles, shown in bold on
the exhibit.
Finance Committee Chair Venuti raised a concern that the Deputy Chiefs (fire and police) were listed on the
grid with an asterisk denoting "management contract, not subject to bylaw." He argued that the deputy chiefs are
not contract employees under Massachusetts General Law and should be subject to the personnel bylaw—
removing the asterisk designation. He further noted that the chiefs' grade had shifted from 21 to 22 without a
clear record of board authorization.
Town Administrator Duggan acknowledged uncertainty about when the grade change occurred and indicated
that employment agreements (rather than formal contracts) had been executed for the deputy positions. A
discussion followed regarding whether "side letters" or "employment agreements" for deputy-level employees
constitute contracts under MGL. Town Counsel's office (represented by Emily Meehan in Tom Harrington's
absence) indicated she would confirm with Harrington the following day whether the side letters, absent a
formal underlying contract, constitute a binding employment agreement.
The board agreed that the article should proceed subject to Town Counsel's review, with the asterisk for the
deputy chiefs to be removed and the grade change clarified.
Citizens' Petition Articles (Articles 11 and 12)
The two citizens' petition articles were noted as part of the warrant but were not substantively discussed during
the meeting.
Votes on Warrant Articles
Finance Committee:

Motion by Finance Committee Member Sanjay, seconded by Finance Committee Member Rick, to
recommend Articles 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Motion carried unanimously.
Article 2 (Town Charter) and Article 3 (Chapter 40U) were not acted upon by the Finance Committee, as the
committee noted it could not opine on Article 2 without a final reviewed document, and Article 3 lacked
sufficient information for a recommendation.
Select Board:
Motion by Select Board Member Mark Rambacher, seconded by Select Board Member Kyle Bubp, to
recommend Articles 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Motion carried unanimously.
Article 3 (Chapter 40U) was left on the warrant without a recommendation, to be revisited prior to Town
Meeting. The board agreed it could be withdrawn at Town Meeting if further review did not yield sufficient
comfort.
Motion by Select Board Member Mark Rambacher, seconded by Select Board Member Kyle Bubp, to
close the warrant and direct posting. Motion carried unanimously.

3. Department/Board Updates and Requests
a. Health Department: Consider Approval and Execution of an
Intermunicipal Agreement with the Town of Acton for Shared Public
Health Nurse Services
Town Administrator Duggan presented a renewal of the existing Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) with the
Town of Acton for shared Public Health Nurse services. He noted the agreement was substantially identical to
the original, with the only adjustment being step increases consistent with normal employee progression.
Select Board Member Rambacher identified several cross-reference errors in the agreement, noting that the
document referred to "Section 2C" in multiple places, though no Section 2C exists—the correct reference
appearing to be Section 2B. He also noted that Appendix C, which outlines shared costs, was incomplete,
omitting retirement and pension contributions from the fringe benefits calculation, making the total cost figure
inaccurate. Town Administrator Duggan acknowledged both issues, noting that the errors originated with Acton
as the drafting party and had carried over from the original agreement.
The board agreed to approve the agreement with those noted discrepancies on record.
Motion by Select Board Member Mark Rambacher, seconded by Select Board Member Kyle Bubp, to
approve the Intermunicipal Agreement between the Town of Littleton and the Town of Acton for the
provision of shared Public Health Nurse services. Vote: Aye – unanimous.

4. Anticipated Adjournment
A brief discussion followed regarding the start time of the Fall Town Meeting on October 27. Members noted
that with only 12 articles, a 7:00 PM start time was not necessary, and a 6:00 or 6:30 PM start was suggested.
No formal vote was taken on this matter.
Motion to adjourn by Select Board Member Mark Rambacher, seconded by Select Board Member Kyle
Bubp. Motion carried unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned.

Select Board Meeting
Meeting Minutes
September 28, 2026, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

1. Organization / Pledge of Allegiance / Read Mail
The Chair called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Town Administrator James Duggan read
the mail, which included the following items:
Board Vacancies: A notice was shared regarding vacancies on several town boards appointed by the Select
Board. The public was directed to the town's website for more information.
Select Board Office Hours: Office hours were noted as scheduled from Friday, October 2nd through Friday,
May 28th, with coverage from Select Board members.
Gift Acceptance: A gift acceptance form was received from the Friends of the Council on Aging in the amount
of $900.00, designated for the purchase of food for the senior breakfast program.
Public Hearing Notice – Proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendments: A courtesy notice was received from the Town
of Ayer regarding a public hearing held on September 22, 2026, pertaining to two proposed zoning bylaw
amendments to be considered at Ayer's Fall Town Meeting: (1) amendments to Section 10.3, the Inclusionary
Housing Bylaw, and (2) establishment of a temporary moratorium on the application, use, building, or
installation of data centers, to be codified in a new Section 10.6 and Section 3-2.0-2.2. The Board noted the
relevance of this notice to the upcoming Data Center Working Group discussion later in the agenda.

2. Joint Meeting with Littleton Electric Light and Water
Commissioners
A. Annual update from Littleton Electric Light and Water Department
The full Board of Electric Light and Water Commissioners attended, joined by General Manager Nick Lawler
and Executive Assistant Sarah Carr. Commissioner Melissa Hebert (29 Grove Road, Littleton) presented the
annual update, organized around four focus areas.
Rates and Financial Stewardship: Littleton Electric Light and Water Department (LALWD) has held the lowest
electric rate in the state since June 2026. Water rates are 14% below the statewide median. The department
maintains a consistent positive rate of return year over year and continues to contribute to the Electric
Depreciation Fund. Highlights included the collection of nearly $1,500,000 in PFAS settlements, receipt of
$1,100,000 in federal funding for the sewer expansion, and an ongoing Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT)
program to the Town over a six-year period. Select Board members expressed appreciation for the low rates,
noting the stark contrast with neighboring communities.
Reliability: LALWD reported an average outage duration of 8.2 minutes, compared to a national average of 169
minutes. The department has received nine consecutive American Public Power Association (APPA) reliability
excellence awards, and holds Diamond Level status for the APPA Safety Award for Excellence for two
consecutive years. Reliability improvements have been supported through ongoing tree wire maintenance,
installation of squirrel guards, and the expanded use of spacer cables following lessons learned from the 2008
ice storm. LALWD staff presented these best practices at the APPA Boston Conference in 2026. The
department has also been a regional and national mutual aid leader for over 40 years, with recent deployments
including Assistant General Manager Dave Ketchen's approximately three-week relief mission to Saipan
following a major typhoon, prior water-related assistance in Mississippi, and ongoing volunteer work with
Navajo Nation. Regarding the most recent storm, the department reported minimal outages relative to the over
100,000 outages experienced statewide.
Major Projects: The following projects were highlighted as completed or near completion:

●

Wickham Avenue Water Treatment Plant – Complete; no detectable PFAS in treated water.

●

Littleton Common Sewer – A $45,000,000 water recovery facility was completed; ribbon cutting was
held in January 2026.

●

Boxborough Water Main – Approximately 4.5 miles of main installed at no cost to Littleton ratepayers.
General Manager Lawler noted that substantial completion of the associated well is expected around
November 15th, with Boxborough customers anticipated to be connected before the end of the year.

●

Parley Garage Phase 1 Rehabilitation – Nearing completion; Phase 2 design is underway, anticipated to
include site cleanup and potentially a second building and relocation of tree operations.

●

Cedar Hill Water Tank – New tank installed.

A brief discussion was held regarding the Land Court process related to the property at 242 King Street, which
was noted as ongoing due to historical complications involving I-495 land takings.
Community Impact: Over the past five years, the commissioners have awarded over $230,000 in community
grants to town departments and organizations. Additional community programs include the annual free shade
tree program (over 1,300 trees planted in ten years), discounted rain barrels, scholarships, holiday lighting on
the Common, Thanksgiving senior dinners, Toys for Tots participation, community shredding events, and
Touch-a-Truck week.
Select Board members thanked the commissioners and staff for their continued service and stewardship. The
Chair and Select Board Member Charles DeCoste specifically noted the department's proactive tree work as a
key factor in the town's resilience during the recent storm. It was also noted that the drought has been
downgraded to Level 1, though conservation of water was still encouraged.

3. Department/Board Updates and Requests
A. Town Clerk – Vote to authorize the approval of the November 3, 2026
Election Warrant for posting
Town Clerk Diane Crory presented the November 3, 2026 Election Warrant for authorization and signature,
noting it would be posted at three locations: Saint Ann's Church, Town Hall, and the Post Office. She reported
that state ballots were expected by October 3rd, and that town meeting booklets were anticipated to be mailed by
the following week. She also noted that election worker volunteers are still being sought and encouraged
residents to contact the Town Clerk's office.
Motion to approve and sign the Election Warrant for the November 3, 2026 Election was made by Select
Board Member Mark Rambacher and seconded by Select Board Member Charles DeCoste. The motion
carried unanimously.

B. Town Clerk – Vote to authorize the approval and signing of the
October 27, 2026 Special Town Meeting Warrant for posting
Town Clerk Crory presented the October 27, 2026 Special Town Meeting Warrant for authorization and
signature, also to be posted during the current week.
Motion to authorize the approval and signing of the October 27, 2026 Special Town Meeting Warrant for
posting was made by Select Board Member Rambacher and seconded by Select Board Member Kyle
Bubp. The motion carried unanimously.

C. Police Department – Appointment of new Civilian Traffic Regulators,
TJ Budka and James Keaton
Chief Douglas Landry provided background on the Civilian Traffic Regulator (CTR) program, originally
initiated under Chief Fontaine approximately four to five years ago to address difficulty filling traffic detail
shifts with sworn officers. He noted that the department had previously been required to contact as many as nine
other towns per night to fill details and emphasized the value of having Littleton-based personnel filling those
roles.

Chief Landry introduced James Keaton, who was present at the meeting. Mr. Keaton had previously served as a
CTR in 2024–2025, voluntarily resigned for personal reasons, and has since sought to return. He was described
as a committed and well-regarded employee. Chief Landry noted that Thomas "TJ" Budka was unable to attend
due to a personal matter but was previously a full-time Littleton Police Officer (2014–2017), a part-time officer
(2017–2021), and has since been working in the federal sector while remaining connected to the community.
Motion to appoint TJ Budka and James Keaton as Civilian Traffic Regulators with the Littleton Police
Department on Compensation Plan Schedule B was made by Select Board Member Rambacher and
seconded by Select Board Member Bubp. The motion carried unanimously.

E. Police Department – Appointment of new Reserve Officer Edward
Lawton
Chief Landry explained that the department's reserve officer program now primarily consists of retired, POSTcertified officers who wish to maintain their certifications and continue contributing to the department. He
presented Edward Lawton, a retired Lieutenant from the Acton Police Department with a 32-year career, who
had interviewed for Littleton's Police Chief position and has long been a peer and resource to Littleton officers.
Select Board Member DeCoste and the Chair spoke warmly of Lawton's long-standing relationship with
Littleton and his technical expertise. Lawton expressed genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Motion to appoint Edward Lawton as Reserve Officer with the Littleton Police Department on
Compensation Plan A, Grade 10, Step 3 was made by Select Board Member Rambacher and seconded by
Select Board Member Bubp. The motion carried unanimously.

D. Police Department – Appointment of new Sergeants, Ryan Richard
and James Morine
Chief Landry noted that the sergeant promotions were the result of a competitive internal process with
significant interest from within the department, describing it as one of the most difficult decisions of his tenure
as Chief due to the high caliber of candidates.
Sergeant Ryan Richard joined the department in 2017 as a reserve officer, attending Fitchburg State's first police
academy cohort. He came on full time and has since been a key figure in the Field Training Officer (FTO)
program, spearheaded alongside Sergeant Camelo. He leads the department's traffic program, conducts traffic
studies, manages the speed trailer, and represents the department on the NEMLEC motor unit. Chief Landry
praised Richard's character and commitment. Select Board members offered congratulations, with the Chair
making a light-hearted remark about Richard's first traffic stop of his daughter in 2017. Select Board Member
DeCoste reflected on watching Richard grow from youth sports through his professional career as a law
enforcement officer.
Motion to appoint Ryan Richard as Sergeant with the Littleton Police Department, Police Union 204,
Salary Grade 4, Step 7 was made by Select Board Member Rambacher and seconded by Select Board
Member Bubp. The motion carried unanimously.
Sergeant James Morine is a lifelong Littleton resident who began his law enforcement career in Claremont, New
Hampshire, gaining experience in a higher-volume public safety environment before joining Littleton as a
reserve officer in 2019 and full time in 2020. Chief Landry highlighted Morine's role as the department's
firearms and less-lethal instructor, his management of firearms dealer inspections across approximately 70
licensed dealers in town, and his leadership in cruiser maintenance. He was described as methodical, proactive,
and highly trusted by both command staff and fellow officers. His fiancée, Stephanie, was also present for the
occasion.
Motion to appoint James Morine as Sergeant with the Littleton Police Department, Police Union 204,
Salary Grade 4, Step 7 was made by Select Board Member Rambacher and seconded by Select Board
Member Bubp. The motion carried unanimously.
Group photographs were taken with newly appointed officers, their families, and the Select Board following the
appointments.

4. Public Input/Members' Updates
Public Input:
Rob Rounce (25 Juniper Road) addressed the Board regarding the Conservation Commission's pending
recommendation concerning Long Lake dock violations, which have been under review for over a year. He
noted that the Conservation Commission had recently voted to recommend removal of all private docks, and had
separately indicated a willingness to support the placement of one to two public docks near Lakeshore Drive,
with funding and implementation deferred to Parks and Recreation, the Select Board, and others. Mr. Rounce
expressed concern that the timeline could result in a full season during which residents and children would have
no access to the lake, and asked the Board to be mindful of this as they receive and consider the
recommendation.
The Chair acknowledged the pending recommendation, assured Mr. Rounce that no rushed decision would be
made, and noted the Board's awareness of the seasonal implications. He thanked individuals and the Disability
Commission who had reached out with ideas, and indicated that a more comprehensive plan is being developed
with input from multiple stakeholders.
Members' Updates:
Select Board Member Rambacher reminded residents of the Country Fair and Oktoberfest scheduled for
Saturday in town, and the Fire Department Open House on Sunday, October 4th from 11 AM to 1 PM.
Select Board Member Bubp noted his participation in a recent LCTV podcast about the upcoming telethon
fundraiser and encouraged community participation.
Select Board Member DeCoste acknowledged LALWD's work in the aftermath of the recent storm, noting that
areas he visited on the South Shore experienced significant outages while Littleton remained largely unaffected,
a result he attributed to the department's proactive maintenance efforts.
The Chair recognized Gold Star Mother's Day, observed the previous day, and acknowledged a recent VFW
trivia night at which Gold Star mothers were honored. He also encouraged residents to support local farms
through the fall and winter seasons, and noted that Barnes & Noble is expected to open at the end of October,
with Jersey Mike's and Portland Mattress also coming to town.

5. Select Board Discussions
A. Vote to approve the application to use Littleton Common on October
17, 2026 submitted by Barbara Ward
The Board briefly reviewed the application. No concerns were raised. Standard departmental clearances from
the Police Department and DPW had been obtained.
Motion to approve the use of the lower Littleton Common for a pro-democracy stand-out on October 17,
2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, with no podiums, was made by Select Board Member Rambacher and
seconded by Select Board Member Bubp. The motion carried unanimously.

B. Discussion and possible vote on parameters for a temporary staffing
vacancy review
The Chair initiated a discussion on implementing a temporary staffing vacancy review process in light of an
anticipated difficult budget season. He noted a preference for scrutinizing backfill positions—those vacated
through retirement, resignation, or transfer—rather than implementing a blanket hiring freeze on new positions
only. He proposed that department heads be required to appear before the Board and the Town Administrator
when vacancies arise to justify the urgency and necessity of immediate refilling, rather than allowing positions
to be filled without review.
Select Board Member Rambacher expressed support and additionally suggested that the steps at which
replacement employees are hired receive greater scrutiny, noting that positions have sometimes been filled at
higher salary steps than may be necessary. He confirmed the Board had implemented a similar process in the
past.

Select Board Member DeCoste corroborated that such a process was previously in use, with vacancies vetted
through the Town Administrator's office before coming to the Select Board. He reflected that the town had been
less rigorous in recent years due to favorable financial conditions, and that headcount had grown substantially,
though often for legitimate reasons such as the addition of a new HR department and a new senior center.
Select Board Member Bubp concurred, emphasizing that all vacancies—both backfill and new positions—
should be subject to the review, with particular attention paid to salary step justification.
Town Administrator Duggan confirmed that positions currently posted would continue through their existing
processes, and that the review would apply to new vacancies going forward. The Chair also requested that the
Town Administrator communicate this policy to the School Committee Chair and Superintendent, given the
school department's significant share of town personnel and budget.
The Board agreed that the policy would remain in effect through the end of Fiscal Year 2027 (June 30, 2027), at
which point it would be reviewed and potentially renewed.
Motion to institute a temporary staffing vacancy review, effective immediately, for all new vacancies
through June 30, 2027, at which time the policy will be reviewed by the Select Board, was made by Select
Board Member Rambacher and seconded by Select Board Member Bubp. The motion carried
unanimously.

C. Establishment of a Data Center Working Group
Select Board Member Bubp presented a proposal to establish a Data Center Working Group, arising from public
questions and concerns about potential data center development in Littleton. He reported that prior to bringing
this proposal forward, he had met with representatives from the Board of Health, Planning Board, Sustainability
Committee, Littleton Electric Light, and the Water Department.
He noted that Littleton already has several protective measures in place. Current zoning bylaws require Planning
Board special permit review for any structure exceeding 50,000 square feet. The Water Department requires a
water use impact report and conservation plan for any user requesting more than 30 gallons per minute, and
approval of such usage is conditional. The Electric Light Department reserves the right to refuse service for
loads of unusual characteristics that might affect cost or quality of service to other customers—directly
addressing the concern in other communities that a large data center could raise rates for existing customers.
Select Board Member Bubp expressed the view that a blanket moratorium would be too blunt an instrument and
could produce unintended consequences—for example, by restricting data centers while leaving unchecked
other high-consumption industrial uses such as pharmaceutical manufacturing. He proposed instead that the
working group develop a comprehensive strategy to be delivered to the Select Board no later than February
2027, in time to inform potential zoning changes for the Annual Town Meeting if needed. The recommended
members of the working group are: a representative from the Sustainability Committee (MacGyver), Barbara
Bloomstein from the Planning Board, Libby Donaghan from the Board of Health, Dick Taylor from Electric
Light and Water, General Manager Nick Lawler from Electric Light and Water, and Select Board Member Bubp
as liaison.
Select Board Member Rambacher raised the concern that if zoning changes are required, a March deadline could
be too late for Annual Town Meeting, and suggested February as the controlling deadline. The Board discussed
the sunset provision and agreed that the working group should be dissolved on June 30, 2027, unless otherwise
extended by the Select Board.
Motion to establish a Data Center Working Group comprised of a representative from the Sustainability
Committee (MacGyver), Barbara Bloomstein (Planning Board), Libby Donaghan (Board of Health), Dick
Taylor (Electric Light and Water), Nick Lawler (Electric Light and Water), and Select Board Member
Kyle Bubp as liaison, with such working group to be dissolved on June 30, 2027, unless otherwise voted
by the Select Board, was made by Select Board Member Rambacher and seconded by Select Board
Member DeCoste. The motion carried unanimously.

D. Discuss Town Hall hours for the Friday after Thanksgiving (Friday,
November 27, 2026)
The Board discussed whether to close town offices on the Friday after Thanksgiving (November 27, 2026).
Select Board Member DeCoste recounted that when he first joined the Board, coverage was required and

department heads were responsible for ensuring the offices remained accessible to residents, as it is a day when
some residents may use the day off to attend to town business. He reiterated a long-standing position that if this
day is going to be granted consistently, it should be codified as an official holiday in the employee handbook
rather than voted on annually.
The Chair expressed a preference for granting this at the discretion of the Town Administrator rather than
codifying it as a formal holiday, noting the complexities of adding a holiday through union negotiations. Select
Board Member Bubp agreed that keeping it out of the bargaining process through an annual vote is likely the
more practical approach.
The Board confirmed that the closure would apply to town offices broadly, with department heads responsible
for managing essential operations at their discretion. It was noted that DPW essential staff and emergency
services continue to operate as needed regardless.
Motion to close town offices on Friday, November 27, 2026 was made by Select Board Member
Rambacher and seconded by Select Board Member Bubp. The motion carried unanimously.

6. Town Administrator Update
A. Update on municipal operations, projects and initiatives
Town Administrator James Duggan provided the following updates:
Fire Department: A battery backup failure occurred over the weekend. Replacement batteries are arriving the
following day. Staff had to rewire equipment in the interim to maintain functionality. Duggan noted that the
batteries were eight years old despite a typical life expectancy of four years, and indicated that IT would inspect
battery backups at the police station and dispatch as well.
Parks and Recreation: Following a full afternoon of interviews on September 28th, six candidates were
interviewed for the Parks and Recreation Director position. The pool has been narrowed to two finalists, with an
accelerated decision timeline due to the interim director, Jen Davis, whose contract expires at the close of
business on Wednesday. Upcoming Parks and Recreation events include Oktoberfest (October 3rd) and Trunk
or Treat (October 24th). Parks and Recreation staff participated in school safety training alongside the Police
Department.
Police Accreditation Award: The department's accreditation award ceremony is scheduled for October 20th at
Marlborough Country Club. The Chief has two additional tickets available for Select Board members.
Budget and Finance: Finance Director Robin and Assistant Finance Director Kim delivered a budget basics
presentation to department heads on the morning of September 28th, covering budget processes, central budget
entry instructions, and how to look up departmental budgets. The FY28 budget message has been issued to
department heads, directing level-funded budgets with operating cost increases to be absorbed within existing
allocations. Salary lines will be preloaded into the Munis system; overall pay increases (formerly referred to as
COLA) will be determined separately. Department heads are required to submit completed budgets by noon on
October 30th. Individual budget meetings with department heads will follow.
Conservation: Draft RFPs for the boardwalk and Castle in the Trees are in progress.
Employee Appreciation: A coffee and food truck event is planned for October 14th at Town Hall as an
employee appreciation gesture.
Health Inspections: Food establishment health inspections are underway for the fall. A sharps container will be
placed at the fire station in response to community need for a safe needle disposal location; this effort was
coordinated among the Chief, the Board of Health Director, and the Director of the Council on Aging.
New Businesses: Portland Mattress has received its occupancy certificate. Jersey Mike's is expected to open
soon. Barnes & Noble remains on track for a late October opening.
Union Negotiations: Negotiations with the fire union are being scheduled and are expected to begin as soon as
possible, with all major union contracts due for negotiation concurrently in the coming fiscal year.

7. Minutes
A. Approve the minutes of September 14, 2026
Select Board Member DeCoste took a moment to note, in connection with the minutes' reference to birthday
celebrations, that a recent event at the Senior Center honoring Angela Berdolino was a meaningful occasion. He
praised her as sharp, an avid reader, and was glad her family was in attendance. He also commended the COA
Director Liz and her staff for the event.
Motion to approve the meeting minutes of the Select Board meeting of September 14, 2026 was made by
Select Board Member Rambacher and seconded by Select Board Member Bubp. The motion carried
unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 upon a motion by Select Board Member DeCoste, seconded by Select Board
Member Rambacher, approved unanimously.