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Acton Select Board Meeting - June 15th, 2026
Published: Jun 15, 2026
Acton Approves 4.5% Sewer Rate Increase for FY2027
The Select Board, acting as sewer commissioners, reviewed and approved the FY2027 sewer rates. The proposed rates include a 4.5% increase, resulting in an additional $3.89 per month for the average single-family residential customer. This increase is necessary to cover operating costs and maintain a fund balance of at least 50% of the annual budget, considering variables such as full occupancy timelines for new housing projects (Powder Mill Place and McManus Manor) and anticipated increases in contractual costs in FY2028. Debt service for the equalization tank project, beginning in FY2029, was also factored in. Privilege fees remain unchanged. The board was informed that future rate increases might be more flexible due to improved retained earnings in the sewer enterprise fund.
Acton Fire Department Pilot Study Report Highlights Need for Staffing and Station Plan
The Select Board received a near-final draft report from the Collins Center regarding a pilot study on the Acton Fire Department's operational deployment. The study was initiated due to operational challenges arising from opening Station 4 in February 2022 without additional staffing, which spread existing personnel thin and created issues with safety, supervision, morale, and efficiency. The pilot tested two- and three-station models, with staff and public surveys conducted. Key findings noted data limitations affecting response time analysis, but highlighted the need for improved data collection, crew assignments, communication, training, and apparatus reliability. The report also reinforced that increased staffing improves safety and service delivery, recommending consideration of additional supervisory capacity. Improvements already implemented include reopening the center fire station, updating SOPs, developing better dispatch protocols, expanding training, and acquiring replacement apparatus. The ALS engine position has been established and is proving beneficial. The board discussed the need for a long-term station plan, with some advocating for a two-station model and others for a three-station model, acknowledging the high costs of station upgrades and increased staffing.
Acton Select Board Approves 10% Increase in Ambulance Rates for FY2027
The Select Board reviewed and approved the FY2027 ambulance rates, recommending a 10% increase across all run types. This increase is deemed necessary to ensure the sustainability of the ambulance enterprise fund and prepare for upcoming capital needs, given the challenges in forecasting ambulance revenues. The proposed rates are comparable to or lower than neighboring communities. The increase reflects rising operating costs and aims to reduce reliance on the general fund subsidy. The board also discussed the complexities of ambulance billing, including low collection rates from Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, and the fact that non-transport calls are not billed. A general fund subsidy of $454,000 is budgeted for FY2027, supporting a total operating budget of just over $2.1 million.
Draft Policy for New ASAF Parlin House Facility Outlines Usage, Fees, and Restrictions
The Select Board reviewed a draft facility use policy for the ASAF Parlin House, a new community facility. The policy outlines eligible users, including town departments, appointed/elected boards/committees, and community service organizations. It details reservation procedures (online and via swipe access), liability insurance requirements, prohibited events (for-profit, religious, lobbying), and prohibited activities (non-smoking, alcohol without approval, etc.). The policy also addresses potential usage fees to cover costs like staff overtime, electricity, cleanup, and unexpected expenses, though specific fees are not yet set and will be developed separately. Discussions included clarifying 'lobbying,' determining fees for various user groups, setting capacity limits, and defining operating months. The board aims to finalize this policy to ensure the Parlin House serves as a well-managed community resource.
Primrose Franchising Company Special Permit Approved with Waivers Amidst Safety and Environmental Concerns
The Select Board considered a site plan special permit application for Primrose Franchising Company at 457 Mass Ave, proposing a mixed-use development with a 10,050 sq ft facility, exceeding R2 zoning limits for size, floor area ratio, and green space. The applicant sought waivers under the Dover Amendment. Concerns were raised about environmental impact due to the site's location in a groundwater protection district, the large impervious surface area of the parking lot, and traffic and pedestrian safety risks, particularly its proximity to RJ Gray Junior High's access drive. The board also noted the applicant's intent to demolish a historically significant house on the property before its demolition delay period expired. The board ultimately approved the special permit with modifications, including removing the requirement for a sidewalk west of the driveway and accepting a $13,000 payment to the sidewalk fund. The decision passed 3-2, with board members expressing significant reservations about the project's scale, traffic impact, and environmental safeguards.
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The Acton News archive
Acton Finance Committee Meeting - June 23rd, 2026
Great Road Design Public Hearing - June 17th, 2026
Acton-Boxborough School Committee Meeting - June 11th, 2026
Acton-Boxborough School Committee Meeting - June 4th, 2026
Acton Select Board Meeting - June 1st, 2026
Acton Finance Committee Meeting - May 26th, 2026
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