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Ashland Select Board (June 17th, 2026)
Published: Jun 17, 2026
Town Discusses Creating New Buildings and Grounds Department to Enhance Property Management
The Select Board discussed the creation of a new Buildings and Grounds Department, which is an expansion of the current two-person facilities team. The proposed director would oversee facilities, conduct preventative maintenance assessments, evaluate vendor contracts, and manage groundskeeping. This initiative aims to address historical span-of-control issues and provide dedicated expertise for town properties. The need for this department is underscored by the addition of 10 properties over 10 years without staff increases, and increased maintenance demands for public spaces like downtown areas and corridors like Pond Street/Route 126. The board heard from DPW representatives Becca Navarro and Yolanda, who detailed the challenges of maintaining numerous properties, the high costs of external vendors for HVAC and other services, and the potential for cost savings and improved property management with dedicated in-house personnel. While acknowledging potential cost increases in the short term due to necessary repairs and capital planning, the overall goal is long-term efficiency and proactive maintenance.
Select Board Approves Acceptance of Zani Property Donation Pending Tax Payment and Restriction
The Select Board voted to accept the donation of the Zani property, approximately 13.5 acres of a larger 28-acre parcel, with clear title. This acceptance is pending the payment of back taxes and the finalization of a conservation restriction with the Trustees of Reservations. The town meeting had previously authorized the conservation commission to receive the property and enter into this restriction in November 2025. The decision was made following detailed title searches and engineering assessments to clarify the extent of the usable land.
Safety Concerns Prompt Action on Douglas and Greenhalge Road Parking Issues
The Select Board discussed parking and public safety issues on Douglas Road and Greenhalge Road, prompted by resident concerns about narrow roadways due to on-street parking, primarily by construction workers and potentially residents. Chief Roby and the bus coordinator confirmed difficulties for emergency vehicles and buses. The issue is exacerbated by the upcoming full occupancy of 12 Pond Street properties, including a new coffee shop and yoga studio. Proposed solutions include installing signage to direct patrons to park in the rear lot of 12 Pond Street, painting curbs yellow within 20 feet of intersections (prohibiting parking per state law), and implementing 'no parking' signs on one side of the roadways. The board acknowledged that these measures might create resident parking issues but prioritized safety. A visual inspection of the parking situation and discussions with the property manager are planned.
Select Board Approves Year-End Budget Transfers
The Select Board discussed and voted on year-end transfers to close out the fiscal year. These transfers are necessary to adjust appropriations based on actual expenses throughout the year, covering unplanned costs and allocating funds from the salary contingency for non-union staff increases. Key transfers included adjustments for the Town Manager's budget due to reorganization and the housing production plan, data processing to cover trailing expenses from software transitions, and public buildings property maintenance to address increased utility costs and unplanned maintenance. Other transfers were discussed for debt service and group health insurance, with explanations provided by Stephanie Peton. The board approved the transfers as presented.
Select Board Approves Ten New Liquor Licenses for Specific Commercial Zones
The Select Board approved a home rule petition to grant ten additional liquor licenses for all alcoholic beverages, to be consumed on the premises. These licenses are zoned for specific areas: three in the downtown district, three along Route 126, and four within the MBTA zone. This decision follows town meeting approval in November 2023 and addresses feedback from the state, which was hesitant to approve a larger blanket request of sixteen licenses. The licenses have a five-year expiration date for issuance, requiring proactive efforts to attract businesses that can utilize them. The MBTA zone includes areas with 3A zoning, such as Chestnut Street, Memorial Drive, Route 126, Mungo, and Pleasant Street, identified as potential development sites.
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The Ashland News archive
Planning Board (June 25th, 2026)
Zoning Board of Appeals (June 23rd, 2026)
Conservation Commission (June 22nd, 2026)
Board of Health (June 16th, 2026)
Planning Board (June 11th, 2026)
School Committee (June 10th, 2026)
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