388-unit residential development proposed for Route 9 in Westborough
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – A Connecticutbased developer is proposing two fivestory multifamily residential buildings, comprising a total of 388 units, for 171 Milk Street and 222 Turnpike Road (Route 9) in Westborough.
The parcels are located on both sides of Route 9, right where the roadway intersects with Route 135. The developer is Post Road Realty LLC, and the project would be completed in two phases, with occupancy staggered over several years.
The 5.74-acre north parcel, at 171 Milk Street, would have 206 units and about Housing | 5
A Costco in Southborough?
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH – The plans for a Costco in Southborough are officially in motion.
By a 771-12 margin, Southborough Town Meeting on Oct. 27 overwhelmingly voted to amend the town’s zoning, specifically targeting a parcel at 21 Coslin Drive, a 17.81-acre lot located adjacent to Route 9, on the Southborough-Westborough line, and feet from Interstate 495.
The zoning amendment adds a “major retail” use in the town’s existing “Industrial Park” zone. The change allows a Costco to be constructed on the Coslin Drive property, which is the only parcel directly impacted by this zoning change based on the proposed
Night of the living gingerbread
Westborough teens get spooky with food
Krishaa Jagasia, 12, adds details to her campfire scene. (Photo/Leighah Beausoleil)
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – From sculpting with Rice Krispies Treats to seeing who can eat the most Buddy the Elf pasta, the Westborough Public Library is always sure to keep teens entertained, thinking creatively, and, of course, full.
In an effort to get into the Halloween spirit, the library held a Haunted Gingerbread House contest. On Oct. 22, six teens were hard at work, sticking together pieces of graham crackers with frosting and coming up with an accompanying backstory.
The winner of this year’s competition
Trisha Dutta, 14, and Melanie Garber, 13, won first place with their “Halloween at the IRS Federal Office.” (Photo/Leighah Beausoleil)
was Trisha Dutta, 14, and Melanie Garber, 13, with their “Halloween at the IRS Federal Office.”
Because, according to Dutta, “What’s scarier than taxes?”
The activity gave teens the chance to get creative and work with their hands, Teen Librarian Jen McGrath noted. And though gingerbread is often seen around the wintertime, the Westborough Public Library insists it’s completely compatible with spooky season.
“Why just stick to December?” McGrath said. “It’s kind of cool because in December, they tend to be more perfect or traditional. [In October] they can think outside the box a bit more.”
SHREWSBURY
Town Meeting rejects referendum on fluoridation of water Shake Shack coming to popular Shrewsbury retail plaza Tropical Smoothie Café to open in region
Three junior captains are leading Grafton girls’ soccer forward
Stay up to date with all the news!
Dear Editor,
The Marlborough Societies of St. Vincent de Paul (Immaculate Conception and St. Matthias) would like to thank everyone for their support of the 2025 Friends of the Poor Walk. The Walk was our most successful to date with over $25,000 raised to support those in need in Marlborough with food, rent, utilities, and other essential needs.
We would like to thank all our business sponsors. Our Rent Level Sponsors were CMS Inc., Community of the Sisters of St. Anne, The Fay Law Offices, Feet to Wheels, MacDonald Hotel, Mirick Law, Murphy Insurance, and Short & Rowe Funeral Home. Our Grocery Level Sponsors were Avidia Bank, Bouvier Pharmacy, Creative Home Improvements, Drumais Hair Salon and Day Spa, Durand & Anastas Environmental Strategies, Slattery Funeral Home, and Ultra Shine Collision. Our Utility Level Sponsors were The Buffet Way and Kraft Tire & Auto.
If you couldn’t join us this year, please plan on joining us for our walk next year on September 26th, 2026. Without the support of our community we would not be able to help our Friends. Thank you!
Peter Militello, Marlborough
LETTERS TO
The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor Letters must be signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content, suitability and space constraints. Multiple letters from the same person will not be accepted within a 30 day period. “Form letter” submissions, in which the content of one letter is essentially duplicated, will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.
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Dear Editor,
As Westborough’s committees consider various plans for developing the property at 6 Beach Street, the undersigned residents of the neighborhood would like to voice our concerns.
We would welcome development of the 6 Beach Street property in a manner that fits our neighborhood. Sadly, the housing proposal for 6 Beach Street fails to do so.
Beach Street is home to singlefamily houses on 1⁄4-acre lots and Westborough Country Village, an apartment complex for seniors and other rent-sensitive residents. Beach Street is part of the historic Vintonville District, and the homes have a distinct style and charm that makes this a popular walking route for downtown residents. Children ride bikes and play in the street, people push baby strollers, and seniors walk with rollators.
The three concepts offered by the town propose building 10, 12, or 18 units on the 1.2-acre lot at 6 Beach Street. This high-density development would be inconsistent with the rest of the neighborhood, and to build it the zoning committee would have to approve an exception to the zoning ordinance for the area. We don’t believe this is in the best interest of the neighbor-
MALT LIQUOR
The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Shrewsbury, MA 01546 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.
Barbara
GRAPHIC
Jess Walters
Michelina Portas
Lynne Fountain
hood and sets a precedent for overdeveloping Westborough’s historic downtown, sacrificing its charm and appeal. Increased vehicles on a road never designed for such volume will compromise safety on Beach Street and at the already dangerous intersection with South Street, which is the neighborhood bus stop. Hastings Elementary School, which is already overburdened, may be further taxed by this development plan.
We are in support of affordable housing in our town and on Beach Street. However, we believe it should be done responsibly with consideration to the surrounding area. There has been minimal outreach directly to affected residents. The town’s high-density proposals have made us feel unheard and disregarded in the plans. We urge the town committees to consider quality over quantity and plan a smaller development for 6 Beach Street that will integrate well with this neighborhood.
The letter above was signed by 37 Westborough residents in the area of Beach Street. Due to space constraints, we cannot print all the names, but the names will be included in the digital version of this letter. Thank you for your understanding.
Malt liquor is a strong, beer-style beverage known for its higher alcohol content, typically between 6% and 12% ABV. It originated in England around 1690, later gaining popularity in the U.S. during Prohibition because it was potent, inexpensive, and easy to produce at home. Post–World War II, brands began including additives like corn, rice, or dextrose to boost alcohol levels without altering flavor. Malt liquor tastes sweeter than beer and is usually described as smooth. It pairs well with hearty foods like roasted meats, grilled sausages, toasted bread, and rich comfort dishes, with its sweetness balancing salt and spice nicely. While often viewed as a no-frills option, malt liquor offers an affordable, flavorful experience with roots in American brewing history.
Malt liquor was first sold as a medicine that was thought to be good for your health. Over time, people started to love it because it was cheap and has a higher alcohol level, which appealed to a wide range of customers. JULIO’S LIQUORS also has many unique items that set us apart from the average liquor store. For more information, please call 508-366-1942 , or visit at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East.
P.S. Malt liquor became widespread in the 1950s and ’60s, often sold in large 40 ounce “forty” bottles as a budget-friendly choice.
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Ryan Maloney, owner
Town Meeting strikes down plan for referendum on fluoridation of water
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury’s H2O will remain status quo.
At Special Town Meeting on Oct. 22, elected representatives of Shrewsbury voted against Article 7, a citizens’ petition brought forward by Shrewsbury High School senior Sam Rajwani, who started the process as part of a Civic Action Project. The article asked Town Meeting to bring the question of water fluoridation to a townwide vote, the first time a referendum-style vote would have been held on the matter in Shrewsbury’s 70-year history of fluoridation.
The petition failed by a vote of 108-52.
The petition did not seek to remove fluoride from the water, though many advocates of the petition seemed to favor that outcome eventually. Had the article been approved, the ballot question would cross many desks – the Select Board
and the Massachusetts General Court, for instance – before eventually making its way to voters in either 2026 or 2027.
In an effort to protect residents’ oral health, Shrewsbury started fluoridating its water in 1952. Today, Shrewsbury spends approximately $24,000 annually to fluoridate the town’s water to about 0.7 milligrams per liter – the level the U.S. Public Health Service currently recommends. In a presentation before the Finance Committee, Water and Sewer Superintendent Timothy Maroney said that the town tests water every day, with levels between 0.6 and 0.8 mg/L.
Shrewsbury’s water contains a natural amount of fluoride, estimated to be between 0.15 and 0.19 mg/L. In public comment sessions in the leadup to Town Meeting, individuals who spoke on behalf of defluoridation said they did not oppose keeping the fluoride naturally found in the water; the debate is about the added
fluoride, they argued.
Though the merits of fluoride were certainly discussed in public meetings prior to Town Meeting, the crux of the debate became about who should make the decisions for the community: the residents directly; Town Meeting, the town’s representative body; or appointed health experts like the Board of Health. Town Meeting has twice voted to keep fluoridating Shrewsbury water.
For Rajwani, the petition was about giving residents a
voice.
“I’m not asking you to decide whether you want fluoride in the water. Rather, I’m asking you to let the residents decide for the first time in our town’s history. In the 73 years since we’ve started fluoridating our water, an abundance of studies have come out that relate ingesting fluoride to a slew of negative health effects, especially an effect on the IQ of children,” Rajwani said through a statement read at a Finance Committee meeting. However, opponents of the
article argued that leaving medical decisions to the town at-large would be unwise.
“This article seeks to reopen something that Town Meeting has already decided twice and frames it as ‘promoting democracy and transparency.’ Letting the people decide every issue through a popular vote is not the foundation of our democracy … I see this article as undermining the Board of Health by asking voters to make a complex scientific decision without the benefit of understanding,” Select Board Vice-Chair Beth Casavant said at an earlier meeting.
Added Vikram Singh, a Finance Committee member: “There’s a lot of discussion about this. All I would like to say is that without a proper justification, to open it up to the residents, it’s extremely dangerous. … At some point, we have to depend upon the experts. Opinions are important, but science is not opinion – science is fact.”
Expect comprehensive screenings and tests and a custom wellness plan designed for you. Better Health Outcomes
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388-unit development proposed for Route 9 in Westborough
292 parking spaces. If approved by May 2026, construction at the north parcel is estimated to begin in October 2026 and last about 20 months. The parcel is estimated to reach about 95 percent occupancy by June 2029.
The 4.5-acre south parcel, at 222 Turnpike Road, would have 182 units and 255 parking spaces. If approved, construction would begin in March 2028 and take about 20 months. The developer predicts 95 percent occupancy by around November 2030.
Working with Westborough’s Affordable Housing Trust, the developer has committed to providing 15 percent affordable units, with 10 percent restricted to 80 percent of Area Median Income (AMI) and 5 percent restricted at 120 percent AMI.
The development would result in a total of 566 bedrooms. In an impact statement filed with the town, the developer claims there will be no predicted impact on Westborough
Public Schools. The 388 units are anticipated to yield about 20 public school students once both parcels are fully occupied.
According to the traffic study completed by MDM Transportation Consultants, Inc., the proposed project would generate approximately 1,780 additional trips, which the developer claims results in less traffic than alternative permitted land uses, such as retail or medical office space.
The average daily water demand and sanitary discharge are both estimated to be about 62,260 gallons per day, with water predicted to be metered “substantially lower.” Both parcels would use existing infrastructure for water and sewer, according to the developer’s impact statement.
The proposed project would also create about 299,911 square feet of impervious area.
A public hearing with the Conservation Commission earlier this year confirmed there are no wetlands, riverfront areas, or rare-species habitats within the parcels. However,
Costco in Southborough?
Costco | from page 1 requirements, according to the town.
Costco doesn’t have immediate approval to begin construction. Instead, the company can begin to go through the ordinary site plan approval process.
The new zoning allows for a large-format tenant of up to 125,000 square feet. The lot must be 20 acres (the lot extends into Westborough to meet this requirement) and must be a minimum of 500 feet from a residential district. Abutting lots may be used for complementary uses, which could mean other stores.
The zoning change was needed since the existing bylaws only permit a 50,000-square-foot retailer. Atlantic Management, a Framingham-based firm targeting the parcel for Costco, says that “they want to be where they are wanted,” according to the town.
In a presentation during Town Meeting, residents
the south parcel lies adjacent to a small isolated wetland.
A section of the Boston Worcester Air Line Trail (BWALT) is proposed near the south parcel, but lies beyond 200 feet from the planned project area.
The northern parcel is currently occupied by single-fam-
ily homes, while the south parcel has a 12,865-squarefoot office building currently occupied by “Grupo Espíritia Trabalhadores de Última Hora.” These structures have not been identified as historically significant and would be demolished. Upon full buildout, the com-
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spoke about the tax revenue the project could bring.
Southborough’s average residential tax bill has increased from $9,105 to $13,224 over a 10-year span, the town says, and since the pandemic, residential bills have increased at a clip of 5.4 percent per year. The tax burden has shifted to residential properties recently (84.3 percent), a trend that the town expects to continue into the future.
The town would need about $160 million of new commercial development to return to an 80-20 split between residential and industrial tax revenue. The revenue generated by Costco — and potential businesses that, taking advantage of the traffic generated, may open nearby — would be a boon to Southborough residents, the town says, shifting some of the tax burden away from the residents.
The parcel, currently an industrial park, is underdeveloped and underutilized.
bined assessed value of the projects is expected to approach $100 million, yielding combined annual property-tax revenues of approximately $1.5 million, according to the developer.
The Planning Board will be discussing the project on Dec. 2.
Shake Shack coming to popular Shrewsbury retail plaza
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – It’s a big day for fans of “fast casual” food and alliteration: Shake Shack may be coming to Shrewsbury.
The popular purveyor of premium hamburgers, french fries, shakes, and flat-top hot dogs is in the process of open-
ing a location at 84 Boston Turnpike in Shrewsbury, the former site of a Geico Insurance. The address is part of a freestanding building within White City Shopping Center. It’s very early in the process, and few details are available. However, a pre-application record obtained by the Community Advocate is telling: “Shake Shack will be
Aging Gracefully
by MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Long Term Care
While it can happen to anyone, urinary incontinence or bladder control problems are more common in older adults, especially older women. Urinary incontinence can be embarrassing and cause seniors to avoid everyday activities, leading to depression and a poor quality of life.
However, older adults need to know that incontinence can often be stopped or controlled. ere are several di erent kinds of bladder control problems: stress incontinence, urge incontinence, over ow incontinence, and functional incontinence. Treatment will depend on the type. Medical treatment can include medications, estrogen creams, medical devices, biofeedback, surgery, and electrical nerve stimulation. Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and limiting drinks before bedtime, are essential in curtailing bladder control problems.
When experiencing bladder problems, it is important to monitor the food you are eating. Eliminate food or beverages that can worsen bladder functionality. ese include tea, co ee, chocolate, alcohol, citrus juices, and spicy and acidic foods. If a loved one requires care, call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011. We emphasize assisted living, long term care and rehabilitation, and hospice care. You can also schedule a tour of our facilities at 559 Plantation Street.
P.S. Certain medications can cause bladder control problems.
· notredamehealthcare.org
replacing the previous tenant,” the record reads. “There are no proposed changes to the exterior, other than new signage. The rest of the scope is interior tenant improvements.”
With hundreds of locations nationwide, Shake Shack tailors each restaurant to its local environment, while maintaining its core branding.
NCOA OFFERS ONLINE RESOURCES FOR FALL-PREVENTION
Falling is NOT a normal part of aging. ere are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Falls remain the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older adults, and can signi cantly impact an older adult’s quality of life. A fall can cause older persons to become socially isolated or fearful of leaving home and can lead to costly medical expenses.
One important first step toward staying safe is learning what aspects of your life can put you at greater risk of falling. e National Council on Aging (NCOA), a trusted national leader working to ensure that every person can age well, o ers practical steps to address this important issue on their website.
Falls Prevention for Older Adults o ers practical and proven ways to address the risks associated with falls.
For more information, please visit https://www.ncoa.org/older-adults/ health/prevention/ falls-prevention, or use your smartphone to capture this QR code.
Enjoy home-cooked New England-style fare
Residents of New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough enjoy a
Classic New England-style meals include roast turkey, pork tenderloin, seafood Newburg, Yankee pot roast, and much more. Residents may request “healthy,” “half,” or “hearty” portions. To add to the variety, an assortment of sandwiches and omelets is also always available.
Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $3,400/month for one resident.
Westborough to restore cut administrative assistant positions
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – In an effort to reduce the budget by 1 percent across departments in fiscal year 2026 (FY26), two administrative assistant positions were cut. However, on Oct. 21, Special Town Meeting restored those positions while maintaining the budget.
The cuts directly affected the Planning Department, Health Department, and Finance Department. Each department claims the lack of staffing stretched their existing staff thin, leading them to fall behind.
Of those in attendance at Town Meeting, 225 voted in favor of restoring the positions, while 86 were opposed.
Maintaining the budget Article 3 on the Special Town Meeting warrant requested the transfer of $36,270 from
the Council on Aging’s salary and wages budget to restore a Health Department and treasurer/collector administrative assistant position for the remainder of FY26.
Town Manager Kristi Williams explained to the Advisory Finance Committee on Oct. 9 that since the Council on Aging bus service has become a part of the Worcester Regional Transit Authority program, as of July 1, that department is now reimbursed for certain wages.
In FY26, the town budgeted $78,924 to pay those drivers. The reimbursement agreement is up to approximately $91,000, so a new revolving fund account – created through Article 2 of the warrant – is where the reimbursement would be sent. From there, the money would be paid out to the drivers.
Once the article is officially approved by the attorney
general, the funds that were originally budgeted for the Council on Aging’s drivers can be redistributed for these two new administrative assistant positions in the FY27 budget. A small amount would be reserved for trips outside of the WRTA program.
The departments could have these positions restored for FY26 as soon as Dec. 1.
The department difficulties
At this time, the administrative assistant for the Planning Department works 20 hours per week for their assigned department and the other half of the week with the Health Department.
“The reduced coverage has significantly affected our ability to operate efficiently and keep up with the pace of development we’re seeing. Right now, we have more than a dozen active develop -
ment and permitting projects underway,” said Director of Planning Jenny Gingras. She emphasized there is need for consistent administrative support to keep everything moving along as there has since been slower turnaround on documents, reduced responsiveness to residents, and increased strain on staff.
Board of Health member Nathan Walsh noted not having a dedicated assistant has led to some “serious” issues. As an example, he pointed out the recent confusion between business owners and the town’s inspectors in regard to the sale of individual cigars. Without the additional oversight of an admin, he said a part of the adopted regulation was left out, leading to frustration on both sides.
Additionally, Public Health Director Jennifer Sullivan said the department received a call
from a resident whose child had gone into anaphylactic shock after eating at a restaurant that had signage claiming to be nut-free. With over 200 restaurants, and eight new ones currently under review, she said the department is about a month behind on their inspections, which need to take place twice a year.
“That’s just one example of the many we have been coming across,” Sullivan said.
Finance Director Jonathan Steinberg said his department sends out over 60,000 bills over the course of a year and the lack of an admin has slowed down their ability to get work done.
“I always thought collections was easy, right? Very few bills come in that don’t need some sort of research,” he said. “You’d be amazed how many checks come in without the slip or without an account number”.
Westborough voters reject $800K for Community Center pool repairs
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Westborough voters defeated an article requesting $799,675 for Community Center pool repairs at Special Town Meeting on Oct. 21. When the votes were tallied, 132 were in favor of the repairs, while 205 were opposed.
Residents questioned whether the funds could be better allocated. There were also concerns about the affordability of the pool repairs for seniors and families, the fact that a private vendor would be operating the pool, and whether it would be selfsustainable.
The request included Weston & Sampson’s bid of $529,000 for the pool repairs. The additional costs included a 7.5 percent contingency of $39,675, repairs to the sprinklers (quoted at $11,000), and the HVAC/PoolPak (quoted at $220,000), which would have served as the dehumidification system for the indoor pool.
The repairs would have included replacing the pool liner, replacing pool fittings, replacing the pool equipment, repairing pool filtration, ad-
justing the depth of the pool, and replacing sprinkler heads.
The pool would have required a certified operator, who handles tasks such as the administering of chemicals and staffing lifeguards. The Recreation Department had planned to contract a vendor who would supply the staffing necessary to run the weekly programming. The vendor would have collected fees from attendees and, in turn, paid the town for using the space.
These funds as well as pool memberships, birthday parties, and other planned pro -
gramming would have then offset the cost of maintenance and utilities, the town claimed.
Jody Fredman, a resident opposed to the repairs, felt the Community Center did not have enough participation to begin with to accommodate the planned model of operation, adding if residents want to pay to swim they can go to the YMCA or the Westboro Tennis & Swim Club.
“It’s not free money,” Fredman said. “This is money that is allocated that we can better use for the Senior Center or for other allocations.”
John McManus said he had been concerned the Community Center would be a “white elephant” when it was first purchased and felt the cost for pool repairs was proving that to be true.
“We’re going to have seniors who voted for this building – so they thought they were going to get a Senior Center – and they are going to be dead before there is any senior center and it just seems crazy,” McManus said.
Select Board member Mark Silverberg, who was also in favor of the repairs, said the
residents voted to purchase this building and he would hate to see these repairs come back in five years with a larger price tag.
Said resident Bob Abair: “We need way more benchmarking and understanding about this.” He highlighted other requests on the Town Meeting warrant, such as funding for special education, that voters had spent time debating and noted the repair money could be better used for those other issues. “For us to consider redoing that pool right now is a disgrace.”
Worry attracts more worry, Anxiety attracts more
Unhappiness attracts more unhappiness. Dissatisfaction attracts more dissatisfaction.
job is an inside one. To change your world, all you have to do is change the way you feel inside. How easy is that ?
-- Rhonda Byrne, 'The Secret'
Sponsored by Chief Joseph.Robert J. Terkanian, P.O.
Judy Boyle, RealtoR®
Proudly serving the Boroughs and beyond with honesty and integrity since 2005
Are you thinking of renovating your home? Is it time to put in that dream kitchen or breathe some new life into your bathroom? Perhaps you need more space and are going to finish the basement or add an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). Maybe you are budgeting for a new deck and roof next spring. Whatever the project, there are a lot of things to consider. How much will it cost and how many quotes should you get? Who will perform the work, do they come with good references and carry adequate insurance? Will you get a healthy return on your investment if and when you decide to sell? These are some of the most obvious questions you will be asking yourself, but one critical component of any home improvement project that is often overlooked is whether or not the project requires a permit. Permitting. That one word makes everyone squirm. The general perception of the permitting process is that it is a way for the town to generate revenue; others feel it will only result in an increase in real estate taxes and add time to the process. Then there is the matter of whether you even need to pull a permit and who is responsible for doing so. Indeed, the whole conversation around permitting is annoying. But if you educate yourself about the process and realize that taking out the proper permits will only benefit you in the long run, it makes total sense.
Tropical Smoothie Café to open in region
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH — Northborough Crossing is about to get a bit more tropical.
Tropical Smoothie Café will open at 9114 Shops Way on Nov. 3, said owner Hetkumar Patel. The Northborough Select Board unanimously approved the smoothie spot’s Common Victualler License on Oct. 20.
“We’re excited to have you here,” said Select Board mem-
ber Laura Ziton. “I’m looking forward to trying the smoothies.”
Tropical Smoothie Café is a fast-casual restaurant brand specializing in fresh, madeto-order smoothies, bowls, wraps, flatbreads, salads, and other health-forward menu items. Founded in 1993, the brand has grown to over 1,400 franchise locations across the United States.
There are nearly 20 locations in Massachusetts. In addition to Northborough,
the company is set to open new locations in Worcester and Franklin, according to its website.
Marlborough company acquired for $18.3B
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough-based medical diagnostics firm Hologic has agreed to be acquired by Blackstone and TPG in a deal valued at up to $18.3 billion, the company announced on Oct. 21.
“Today marks an exciting new chapter for Hologic as we join forces with the exceptional teams at Blackstone and
TPG,” said Stephen P. MacMillan, Hologic’s chairman, president, and chief executive officer. “With their resources, expertise and commitment to women’s health, Blackstone and TPG will help accelerate our growth and enhance our ability to deliver critical medical technologies to customers and their patients around the world. This transaction delivers immediate and compelling value to Hologic stockholders, reflecting the dedication of
So how do you know whether your project requires a permit and what is the process of obtaining one? At his recent Lunch & Learn seminar, Real Estate Attorney Michael Robbins of Crowley & Cummings, LLC (www.mrobbinslaw.com) suggested you visit your local Building Department.
“The building commissioner is not the boogeymen,” quipped Robbins. “He really is there to help and work with you.”
In response, and also in attendance at the seminar, Westborough Community Development Director Fred Lonardo said it best: “We’re here for life safety and for the benefit of the homeowners.”
Regarding which projects require permitting, Lonardo states “if you are adding something or opening something up, it most likely requires a permit.”
Pulling proper permits – and making sure they are closed out – will also save a lot of time and potentially prevent a real estate deal from blowing up when you do decide to sell down the road. Most reputable contractors will offer to pull all the necessary permits…and they do. Whether the contractor actually schedules the final inspections and makes sure the permit is closed out is another thing. Robbins suggests that the homeowner withhold final payment until the proper documentation is in hand. Robbins and Lonardo discussed one last issue on the permitting subject…What’s on file at the Building Department? Each concur that town records are inconsistent.
“Paperwork gets lost,” cautioned Lonardo, who urged the homeowner to keep good records. In the summarizing words of Robbins, “Pull the permit. Close the permit. Keep the permit.”
Boyle has been a real estate agent since 2005 and is a member of the distinguished RE/MAX Hall of Fame and RE/ MAX Platinum Club. She is ranked in the top 1% of agents in Massachusetts by RealTrends.com and BestAgents.com. Boyle is also a Children’s Miracle Network “Miracle Agent” for her commitment to making a donation to Boston Children’s Hospital on behalf of every home buyer and seller she assists. Boyle’s mission is to offer goal-based solutions and strategies while she empowers her clients to make wise decisions through data-driven insights and local market knowledge. She invites you to call or email her for the Winter 2025 Home Buyer and/ or Seller Guides or for a complimentary market analysis.
our employees whose hard work has made this milestone possible.”
The deal is one of the largest healthcare take-private transactions this year. It’s expected to be finalized in the first half of 2026.
Hologic, located at 250 Campus Drive, specializes in women’s health diagnostics, including breast and cervical cancer screening.
Don’t forget to ‘Knock on Wood’: Local band to perform in Northborough
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Free Library will turn up the volume on Nov. 1, welcoming the folk-rock duo Knock on Wood for an evening of familiar favorites with a twist.
The duo was founded about 11 years ago by Howie Newman. Newman is at the center of the performance, with other members of the group rotating in and out.
The Nov. 1 performance will feature Joe Kessler, who plays the fiddle and mandolin. Kessler joined Knock on Wood nine years ago, said Newman, and the two have been creating music together ever since.
Though Newman’s own music career dates back to his freshman year of college at Northeastern, he said playing with others not only opens doors for more venue opportunities, but also makes for a vibrant performance.
“It’s musically a lot more interesting and a lot more engaging and much more highenergy,” Newman said. “It’s greater than the sum of its parts.”
Knock on Wood plays a variety of covers, with a focus on classic rock. With iconic guitar riffs and lyrics put to the fiddle and harmonica, the performance brings what Newman calls a “familiar but unique sound.”
They also perform original songs, primarily written by Newman, diving into everything from his wife’s inability to parallel park to surviving the COVID-19 pandemic to the experience of becoming a grandfather.
Prior to forming Knock on Wood, Newman performed with his two children, one who plays the flute and the other who sings. While they’ve grown up and gone to college, Newman has continued to grow as a musician, sharing his music through Knock on Wood with venues across Massachusetts.
While the duo has performed at outdoor concerts, New Years Eve events, coffee houses, and more, Newman said nothing beats playing at a library.
“We’ve done a lot of library shows, and it’s just a great venue because it’s generally a small room and it’s an intimate
type of listening experience. We really get to kind of connect with the audience,” Newman said.
In addition to performing their music, Knock on Wood often steps away from the stage and into the audience. Whether it’s comedy (which Newman insisted is G-rated) or getting the audience to sing along, the performance is more
than just putting on a show for Newman and Kessler.
It’s about sharing a love of music and — at its core — a love for life.
“We try to do something really good musically and have a lot of fun with it,” Newman said.
Catch Joe Kessler and Howie Newman at the Northborough library on Nov. 1. (Photo/Courtesy)
What’s Really Going On Inside
Body?
Ascend Marlborough offers high-flying fun for everyone
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
MARLBOROUGH – When Gavin Obey was growing up, he “climbed everything.” That included trees, lightposts, and, once he discovered the show American Ninja Warrior, he advanced to ropes, poles, and different obstacles.
Soon enough, he was on American Ninja Warrior himself, appearing in Season 16.
“There’s always things to work toward. There’s so many different things – balance challenges, upper-body challenges. With those upperbody challenges, there’s so many different activities, so many different goals,” said Obey.
Nowadays, Obey isn’t just climbing – he’s helping others. Alongside co-owner James Burns, who appeared on American Ninja Warrior in Season 14 and Season 16, and several other business partners like Lucas Reale and Matt D’ Amico, Obey opened Ascend Obstacle Training at the Solomon Pond Mall in October, providing Ninja-like workouts to the masses.
“I think what first made such a big impact was being able to see so much progression. You see the work really pay off. The first time, I couldn’t really do many of these things, I was still learning. Now, I can do these obstacles. With Ninja, you can so clearly see the progress,” Burns told the Community Advocate.
With their knack for climb-
ing, both Obey and Burns worked at gyms over the last decade. When they had the chance to start their own business and share their passion with others, they jumped at the opportunity.
Ascend Obstacle Training offers drop-in gym time, classes for every level, and a variety of camps. Whether you’re a child in need of an after-school option or an adult looking for a unique way to get active, Ascend is an excellent choice.
After all, Obey and Burns pride themselves on making Ninja activities accessible to all.
“We have a starting point for everyone. When I started, I don’t remember if I could do one pull-up. Everyone starts
somewhere, and we’re going to meet people at the skill level they are at. Kids, adults – everybody can find somewhere to start,” said Burns. The obstacles are as exciting as they are intriguing. The “flying bar,” one of Burns’ favorites, challenges athletes to hold onto a bar, fly through the air, and land successfully on a pair of cradles. The “cliffhanger,” one of Obey’s best obstacles, challenges the strength of an athlete’s fingertips as they hold a small ledge. There’s plenty of adrenaline. But there’s also a sense of community.
“Our motto is ‘Together We Rise,’ and we really mean that. It’s about having people in the gym, getting excited when somebody gets a new skill, hyping each other up, and making one another better,” said Obey.
Want to experience the Ninja action yourself? Ascend has a busy few weeks ahead.
On Nov. 8 and 9, Ascend will host a weekend of competitions, welcoming a slew of the region’s finest competitors to the course, and for the public, it’s an opportunity to get introduced to the action.
On Nov. 11, join the Grand Opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony, and on Nov. 15 and 16, attend an Open House. For more, visit https:// www.ascendobstacletraining.com/.
GRAND OPENING NOVEMBER 11TH
OUR GRAND OPENING
TUESDAY NOVEMBER 11TH
10AM TO 6PM
Anyone can stop by to try out ninja for FREE . There will be raffles and fun ninja styles activities.
FREE ninja obstacle times for kids: SATURDAY NOVEMBER 15TH
2PM TO 6PM
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 16TH
10AM TO 3PM
Head coaches and American Ninja Warrior competitors Gavin Obey and James Burns are ready to help you rise to the challenge.
We offer classes for anyone 3 and up, even adults! During our classes coaches will teach kids and adults how to do certain skills starting with the basics and growing from there.
Photo credit Nickerson Hawes
Is there an appetite for Northborough downtown revitalization?
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – The fu-
ture of Northborough’s downtown could hinge on a nearly vacant building in its center: 4 West Main Street.
After a $750,000 proposal to fund the first phase of downtown revitalization on Blake Street and Pierce Street was
voted down 145-67, on night three of Town Meeting on April 30, Planning Director Laurie Connors and the Master Plan Implementation Committee returned to the drawing board.
Now, the plan is once again hitting road blocks with funding, with some town officials saying putting it to another vote at Town Meeting would be unfair to residents.
Earlier this month, Northborough was a recipient of a $499,000 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Complete Streets Program, Connors told the Community Advocate.
The program aims to help municipalities address “critical gaps in transportation networks,” according to its website. If accepted by the
town, the funds will go toward sidewalk improvements on Blake Street and Pierce Street, Connors said.
Applying for the grant was originally part of the town’s downtown revitalization plan, and the application was submitted with Select Board support prior to Town Meeting. Towns may only apply for the grant with projects that are al-
Services & Amenities
TAKE IT EASY
• Weekly light housekeeping & flat linen service
• Three delicious home-cooked meals daily
• Snow removal (and ample free parking)
Private air-conditioned shuttle bus
STAY ACTIVE
• Fitness & wellness programs
Indoor 1/5-mile walking path
• Exercise classes 7 days a week
Heated indoor lap swimming pool
PURSUE YOUR INTERESTS
• A variety of clubs
Country kitchen for resident use
• Indoor greenhouse & outdoor gardens
• Regular Catholic, Jewish, & Protestant services
HAVE FUN
• Weekly entertainment Outings to restaurants and museums
• A full calendar of events and activities
• Games, crafts, lectures, movie nights, & more!
EXPERIENCE TOP-NOTCH SERVICE
• On-site maintenance team
• 24-hour front desk receptionist
• Director on duty seven days a week
• Licensed nurse scheduled 24 hours a day
ENJOY ON-SITE CONVENIENCE
• Six complimentary laundry rooms
• Primary care, podiatry, & dental care
• Banking, a pharmacy/sundry shop, & a hair/beauty salon
• Lounge, billiards room, library, theater, & art studio
MAKE IT YOUR HOME
• Wide variety of floor plans
• Individually controlled heat/air conditioning
Window treatments & wall-to-wall carpeting
• Oversized bathrooms with easy step-in shower
ready designed, said Connors.
The new design for a revitalized downtown is about 75 percent complete, Connors said. Connors, along with Rick Leif, the chair of the Master Plan Implementation Committee, presented the most recent version of the design to the Select Board on Oct. 20, and asked the board to formally accept the Compete Streets grant.
“I believe that the downtown improvements have been a topic that’s appeared time and time and time again in various long range planning documents for 36 years, and we haven’t addressed it yet,” Connors said. “This gives us the opportunity to really make meaningful change in Downtown Northborough that will set the stage for future investment.”
Select Board members said they wanted additional information, including the grant application, before moving forward with a vote. Many were also concerned about the unknown future of 4 West Main, which is expected to have a Request for Proposals (RFP) in the near future.
“I definitely understand the desire to improve downtown, but I don’t know if this is the right time for this project,” said board member Laura Ziton. The board is expected to decide whether the town will accept the grant at its Nov. 3 meeting.
Connors also asked the board for a letter of support for the planning department to request $760,000 in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds to pay for improvements to the “pocket park” by 4 West Main Street. Connors said the committee looked at how to fund the project with the least impact on taxpayers.
“My sense is, the time is right to go forward and move this project before the town,” Leif said. “If the town doesn’t agree to fund it with this kind of funding, I’d be more agreeable to say that the town is not willing to do this.”
But for board members, it came back to resident feedback heard in April.
“I’m just afraid that the town’s said ‘no’ once fairly convincingly,” said board member Michael Tietjen. Ultimately, the motion to support writing a letter of support did not carry.
Town Meeting approves funds to plan expansion of Shrewsbury High
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – “It’s not a little overcrowded. It’s extremely overcrowded.”
That’s how Superintendent Joseph Sawyer described Shrewsbury High School during a recent Finance Committee meeting. The numbers corroborate his statement: Shrewsbury High School opened in 2002 with around 1,150 students. But the school, designed to hold 1,475 students, was over capacity by 2006, and at its peak in 2020, the school held close to 1,900 students. By modern design standards, the school’s capacity is around 1,250.
The School Committee took an important step forward in March 2024, sending a Statement of Interest (SOI) to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), the first step in a yearslong process to start an expansion.
Then, two major votes: In May 2025, Town Meeting voted to form the Shrewsbury High School Building Committee, a group of school staff members, town officials, and residents who will guide the expansion process. On Oct. 22, Town Meeting took another step, approving Article 8, which designated $3 million to do a feasibility study of a potential expansion.
The $3 million will be split 50-50 between free cash and a borrowing authorization. Since the MSBA reimburses about 50 percent of design costs, it’s likely only $1.5 million of the town’s money will be spent; the town must demonstrate it has the whole $3 million.
The feasibility study would give the town a final product to share with residents – it would include an “initial solution,” possible alternatives, the total square footage needed, a space summary, and a potential cost. If the project is constructed, the MSBA would reimburse at least 52.26 percent of the total project costs.
There’s no reliable cost estimate yet, but some details are certain. The school expansion will be designed for about 1,940 students, per the MSBA’s numbers.
The current high school will not be razed. Grade levels will remain the same. The ask for funds for the project construction would likely come in Fall 2027; the project would likely be completed in August 2030.
At a Finance Committee meeting, Sawyer outlined some of the staffing additions that would come with an expansion. The expansion would likely result in 21 fulltime equivalent positions being added, with about $1.6 to $1.9 million of increased salary phased in over three years.
Though opposition was not vocal at Town Meeting, there has been some skepticism, namely from people who foresee the expansion conflicting financially with a potential override ask. A $40 million DPW project failed a town-wide vote in May.
“I don’t think it’s fiscally responsible to pursue an expansion to the high school at this time. … We have to have an override to sustain what we have, and I’m not confident the town will approve an override, plus a debt exclusion, plus the increased cost of staffing and
curriculum. … I don’t know where we constrict,” said Select Board Chair Theresa Flynn.
A vote against Article 8 at Town Meeting would have effectively killed the project. Without the expansion, Shrewsbury High School
would
Inclusivity the focus of teacher duo’s trip to Bulgaria COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – For Stefani and Zbigniewa Giegucz, working with disabled students is about focusing on the “can.”
“That’s a population that I really love working with, and a lot of times, people don’t give them enough credit,” said Zbigniewa, a Unified sports coach at Algonquin Regional High School. “They look at them and they say they can’t do anything. But instead of looking at it that way, you need to look at the child or the young adult and see what they can do, and you need to foster what they can do.”
The pair took focusing on the “can” to a whole new level this past summer.
The mother-daughter duo, both teachers and Unified sports coaches at Algonquin, was invited to travel to Bulgaria for two weeks to learn more about inclusive athletics.
With a group of other education and Unified sports professionals from the Northeast, they met with representatives from the Sports Academy and the Bulgarian Embassy to discuss ways sports can foster inclusion. They also toured several athletic facilities, where they observed young adults participating in basketball, badminton, tennis, and equestrian programs.
“Just having another chance to go to another country and see how their sports aspect works, I don’t even have words about how excited I was,” Stefani said.
They also saw the power of parental involvement and advocacy firsthand. In the United States, young adults with intellectual disabilities can often participate in programs to help transition from high school into adult life. Locally, youth can build their skills in the Bridging Over to Right Opportunities
(BORO) Program in Westborough, Algonquin’s Community Access Program, and more.
However, in some countries, including Bulgaria, robust opportunities for disabled youth aren’t as developed — if they exist at all.
For both Zbigniewa and Stefani, the trip showed the impact of physical education and activity. When it comes to coaching disabled students, focusing on the “can” matters more than ever before.
Now two months into the new school year, the pair is taking the determination and resilience they saw in Bulgaria and applying it at Algonquin.
“It’s setting the expectations for the students, and when the student reaches that expectation, they feel so good about themselves, it makes a big difference,” Zbigniewa said.
“They can do anything they put their mind to, and they need a support system behind
them saying, ‘You can do it.’ It might look different, but you can do it,” Stefani added. Inspired by their trip, Zbigniewa and Stefani are working to create an “Across Borders” weekend of sports with the other coaches they traveled with.
Stefani was born without her left hand, and said growing up in Westborough, she only
knew one other child with a limb difference.
“Thinking back on it, it would have been super powerful to see more people and create that social net. So we want to do that for these students, because the more people you know, the more you can impact around you, and the more self esteem you can build up for yourself,” she added.
52 Fairlawn
36 Francis
26 Blackthorn
354 Grafton Street
1 Temple Court
11 Country Way
WESTBOROUGH
4 Fairview Road
NORTHBOROUGH
377 Howard Street
342 Green Street
SOUTHBOROUGH
7 Johnson Road
Presented by:
508-719-8804
GRAFTON
39 Creeper Hill Road
12 Putnam Lane
3 Appaloosa Drive
MARLBOROUGH
149 Clover Hill Street
53 Hillcrest Road
22 Rolfe Road
HUDSON
2 Blueberry Lane
26 Eaton Drive
34 Woodrow Street
$545,000 Ciuhong Chen Kumar Dhakal
$615,000 Matthew E. Rich, Ashley L. Rich
$1,400,000 Swathi Sainath, Sai Venkatesh Seetharaman
Unclaimed $50K lottery ticket sold in Marlborough set to expire
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
MARLBOROUGH – A year ago, a
unclaimed — and time is running out.
The Quic Pic ticket, sold at New Capital Farms Convenience Store on Boston Post Road, holds a $50,000 prize for the Nov. 20,
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – Thirdgraders at Marion E. Zeh Elementary School got to say “good morning” to WCVB Channel 5’s audience on Oct. 23.
The students were featured on the outlet’s “Wake Up Call.”
Kelly Ann Cicalese, a meteorologist at WCVB, visited the Zeh School on Sept. 30.
“Kelly Ann has visited our third-graders for the past several years, and it’s always such a highlight. As part of
their science unit on weather, students were able to connect what they’re learning in class with a real meteorologist,” said principal Jonathan Bell. “Kelly Ann shared her expertise, answered questions, and made the topic come alive for our students.”
At the end of her visit, Cicalese recorded a short video of the students for the “Wake Up Call.”
“We’re so grateful to Kelly Ann and her team for continuing this wonderful tradition with our students,” Bell added.
2024 drawing. The winner has until Nov. 20, 2025 to claim their prize.
The winning numbers for that drawing were 16-30-60-6264, with a Powerball of 25. The
unclaimed ticket matched four numbers and the Powerball to win $50,000. The odds of winning that amount are 1 in 913,129. If the money isn’t claimed, it goes back to the state for distri-
bution to cities and towns. Prizes of up to $103,000 can be claimed at Lottery claim centers in Braintree, Dorchester, Lawrence, New Bedford, West Springfield, and Worcester.
LEGAL NOTICES
notice.
SHREWSBURY
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS HIGHWAY DIVISION
SNOW PLOW CONTRACTORS WANTED
The Town of Shrewsbury Highway Division seeks snow plow contractors for the 2025-2026 winter season. All interested contractors must submit applications in conformance with the “Information for Contractors, Requirements and Specifications for Snow and Ice Removal & Snow Hauling Operations” which shall be available online at https://shrewsburyma. gov/bids and also in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury (phone: 508841-8508).
Contractors and equipment must be available for the entire winter season on a 24 hour a day basis and will be responsible for plowing specific routes within the Town.
HIGHER RATES AND BONUSES ARE BEING OFFERED THIS SEASON. Hourly rates will be based on the width of the plow and the gross vehicle rating of the equipment furnished.
Applications will be received in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, MA or via email to jgoodwin@shrewsburyma.gov.
This request for Contractors is exempt from typical procurement procedures under M.G.L. Ch. 30B § 1(b)(17).
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
Kevin J. Mizikar
Town Manager
OCTOBER 27, 2025
Dear Lake Quinsigamond/Flint Pond Abutter:
The Lake Quinsigamond Commission plans to lower the water level, or draw down, Lake Quinsigamond and Flint Pond on or about Monday, November 3, 2025. The Irish Dam in Grafton will be lowered two or three inches at a time until the water elevation in Lake Quinsigamond and Flint Pond reaches twenty-four to thirty inches below normal pool. The purpose of the draw down is to expose the roots of nuisance aquatic vegetation proliferating in Lake Quinsigamond and Flint Pond to freezing temperatures and thereby reducing some of the heavy weed growth along the shoreline and in the shallow areas of the lake and pond.
This proposal has been subject to public hearings and is approved by the Conservation Commissions in Worcester, Grafton and Shrewsbury and the MA Department of Environmental Protection. This is your notice that the 2025-2026 draw down is about to begin. Lake Quinsigamond and
Flint Pond will be refilled by April 2026.
The Conservation Commissions require the following statements:
1) The exposed bank and bottom of the lake and pond are a protected resource under the Wetlands Protection Act and the filling or dredging of the lake and pond bottom is prohibited. Homeowners may remove trash and debris materials using non-mechanical methods. Disposal of the debris is the responsibility of the homeowner. Debris must be disposed offsite in accordance with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
2) All boats should be removed from the water a minimum of two days prior to the draw down date to prevent damage.
3) Homeowner care should be given to docks and shoreline structures to preventdamage from flowing ice. Property owners may make repairs to structures or walls on the shoreline and remove debris from the exposed bottom during draw down. However, residents that plan to make repairs that require more than hand tools must file a Notice of Intent with their local Conservation Commission and obtain the necessary permits before making the repairs.
If you need any additional information regarding the drawdown, please do not hesitate to call your local Conservation Dept.; Grafton Conservation at 508-839-5335, Shrewsbury Conservation at 508841-8502, or the Conservation Commission in Worcester at 508799-1400 ext. 31440.
Very truly yours,
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – M.G.L. C. 40C
The Shrewsbury Historic District Commission will hold two Public Hearings on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545, to consider the following applications for Certificates of Appropriateness under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40C, the Historic Districts Act:
7:05 PM - 12 Prospect Street
Owner/Applicant: Xianlu Lennon Proposal: Installation of a side fence approximately 120 feet in length and 6 feet in height, constructed of white wood or vinyl along the frontage neighboring 10 Prospect Street, visible from a public way.
7:10 PM - 10 Prospect Street
Owners/Applicants: Paul and Mame Little Proposal: Relocation of a portion of the existing picket fence located at the northwest corner of the property, visible from a public way.
Plans and application materials are available for public review in the Town Manager’s Office, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, during regular business hours and may also be reviewed online at www.shrewsburyma.
gov. Interested persons, including abutters and residents, are invited to attend and comment. Written comments may be submitted to the Historic District Commission, c/o Town Manager’s Office, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 or by email to Manager@ shrewsburyma.gov no later than Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM to ensure inclusion in the record.
LEGAL NOTICE
In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 5, The Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 7:00 PM, in the Selectboard’s Hearing Room at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, regarding proposed amendments to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw, as follows:
ARTICLE (TBD)
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning By-Law of the Town of Shrewsbury relative to Section VII.M of the Zoning Bylaw, entitled “LAKEWAY OVERLAY DISTRICT”, by inserting a new first paragraph before subsection “1” therein, for the purposes of establishing a temporary moratorium on Vertical and Horizontal Mixed Use as an allowable use in the Lakeway Overlay zoning district, and amend Section VII.N of the Zoning Bylaw, entitled “ROUTE 20 OVERLAY DISTRICT”, by inserting a new first paragraph before subsection “1” therein, for the purposes of establishing a temporary moratorium on Vertical and Horizontal Mixed Use as an allowable use in the Route 20 Overlay zoning district, or to take any other action in relation thereto.
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
Timothy Fitzgerald, Clerk
FAMILY & PROBATE LAW
PROPERTY OF (133 BEACH STREET)
To: The Estate of Josephine R. Duca, and any interested persons, an action has been commenced against Respondent, The Estate of Josephine R. Duca, as owner of 133 Beach Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts, and Parties-InInterest Michael A. Duca and Anthony Duca, as heirs of the deceased owner, Josephine R. Duca, in the Central Housing Court, Docket No. 25H85CV000554 by the Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, affecting the property at 133 Beach Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts. The Attorney General is seeking the Court to appoint a receiver for such property to repair the property in order to make it fit for human habitation pursuant to G.L. c. 111, § 127I. If appointed and the receiver makes the property habitable, the receiver will request that the Court authorize the receiver to sell such property free and clear of any property interests claimed or held by others and free and clear of all encumbrances of record.
You are hereby summoned and required to serve upon the Attorney General’s Office, One Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108, an answer to the Petition to Enforce the State Sanitary Code and for Appointment of a Receiver within ten (10) days from the date of this notice. You are encouraged to contact the Court or the Attorney General’s Office at (774) 214-4411. Please note that this matter is scheduled for a hearing on the Petition to Enforce the State Sanitary Code and for Appointment of a Receiver on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the Central Housing Court, 225 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608.
STOW
PUBLIC NOTICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
PROJECT: The Residences at Stow Acres
LOCATION: Randall Road, Stow MA
PROPONENT: MCO & Associates
The undersigned is submitting an Environmental Notification Form (“ENF”) to the Secretary of Energy & Environmental Affairs on or before October 31st, 2025
This will initiate review of the above project pursuant to the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (“MEPA,” M.G.L. c. 30, ss. 61-62L). Copies of the ENF may be obtained from:
(Name, email address, phone number of proponent or proponent’s agent)
Electronic copies of the ENF are also being sent to the Conservation Commission and Planning Board of Stow
The Secretary of Energy & Environmental Affairs will publish notice of the ENF in the Environmental Monitor, receive public comments on the project, and then decide if an Environmental
Impact Report is required. A site visit and/or remote consultation session on the project may also be scheduled. All persons wishing to comment on the project, or to be notified of a site visit and/or remote consultation session, should email MEPA@mass.gov or the MEPA analyst listed in the Environmental Monitor. Requests for language translation or other accommodations should be directed to the same email address. Mail correspondence should be directed to the Secretary of Energy & Environmental Affairs, 100 Cambridge St., Suite 900, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, Attention: MEPA Office, referencing the above project. By MCO & Associates
MARLBOROUGH
CITY OF MARLBOROUGH CONSERVATION COMMISSION REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on November 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3 rd Floor Memorial Hall.
The applicant Diane Bevan of 13 Graham Path proposes the installation of an aluminum fence on her property. The work is near wetlands.
Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
Virtusa Corporation
has multiple openings for the following positions in Southborough, MA and other unanticipated locations across U.S.:
DW/BI Analyst I: Bach* in CS, IT, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld +1yr DW/BI exper wrkng w/ ETL tech in a glbly distrib environ. *Or bach equiv thru combo of edu/exper per a reputable crdntls eval srvce or 3yr Indian/SL degree. Salary: $97,906 - $115,650. Ref #VIR1109.
User Digital Interface Designer II: Master’s in CS, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld +1yr UI dsgn&dvlpmnt exper. Salary: $113,547$119,224. Ref #VIR-1208.
Employee will work in various unanticipated locations in U.S. Infrequent travel/re-location ranging from several months to several years required. Telecommuting may be permitted. Please email resumes to: apply@virtusa.com, making specific reference to the Ref # of the position you are applying to.
A Powerful Prayer to the Holy Spirit - Holy Spirit you who solve all problems who light all roads so I can attain my goals, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me, in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish you in eternal glory, thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. The person must say this prayer for three consecutive days. After three days the favor requested will be granted, even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted without mentioning the favor. Only your initials shall appear on the bottom. ~ F.R.
Virtusa Corporation
has multiple openings for the following positions in Southborough, MA and other unanticipated locations across U.S.:
Business Analyst I: Bach* in Science (any fld) +1yr biz/systms anlysis in a distrib environ. *Or bach equiv thru combo of edu/exper per crdntls eval srvce OR 3yr Indian/SL degree. Salary: $80,475 - $95,000. Ref #VIR-1046.
Business Analyst II: MSc in CS, Biz Admin, Finance or clsly rel fld +1yr biz anlysis exper for lrg-scle IT systms solutions dvlpd in a distrib environ. Salary: $115,606 - $121,386. Ref #VIR-1122.
For all positions, employee will engage in long term project assignments at various unanticipated US locations. Telecommuting may be permitted. Please email resumes to apply@virtusa.com, making specific reference to the Ref # of the position you are applying to.
Virtusa Corporation
has multiple openings for the following positions in Southborough, MA and other unanticipated locations across U.S.:
Data Analytics - Business Intelligence Analyst III: Bach in CS, Elctrncs Engrng, Data Sci, Math, or rel fld +5yrs prgrsv post-bach distrib IT exper incl 2+yrs prdcing data anltycs for systm optmztn; OR Master’s in CS, Elctrncs Engrng, Data Sci, Math, or rel fld +2yrs prdcing data anltycs for systm optmztn in a distrib environ. Salary: $148,762 - $165,000. Ref #VIR1146.
Agile Delivery Manager III: Bach in CS or Engrng (any fld)+5yrs prgrsv post-bach IT dvlpmnt exper incl 3+yrs leading dlvry teams utlzng Agile mthdlgy wrkng in a glbly distrib environ; OR Master’s in CS or Engrng (any fld)+3yrs leading IT dvlpmnt dlvry utlzng Agile mthdlgy wrkng in a glbly distrib environ. Salary: $134,098 - $140,802. Ref #VIR-1201. For all positions, employee will work in various unanticipated locations in U.S. Travel/ re-location required. Telecommuting may be permitted. Please email resumes to apply@ virtusa.com, making specific reference to the Ref # of the position you are applying to.
POLICE FIRE&
Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.
Weeks after cocaine charges, man charged with trafficking fentanyl
MARLBOROUGH – A wellbeing check revealed an alleged drug trafficking operation.
At approximately 4:07 p.m. on Oct. 16, two officers were dispatched for a well-being check on an individual in a green car. Witnesses said that there was a man passed out behind the wheel who had been there all day. According
to court documents, officers on an earlier shift had checked on the man.
As officers approached the car, they allegedly noticed two “snuff spoons.” An individual, identified as Gamaliel Negron, 44, was allegedly passed out behind the wheel, slouched forward. Negron was previously charged with traf-
ficking cocaine exactly two weeks earlier, according to a police report.
Police requested Negron step out of the vehicle, but he refused. Once Negron exited the vehicle, officers allegedly noticed a clear plastic baggie on the driver’s side floor that contained a white powder. Officers reportedly identified the
substance as cocaine. Negron was placed under arrest.
Further inspection of the vehicle reportedly resulted in the discovery of a spoon with white residue, and three smaller plastic bags (one half-dollar-sized, two nickel-sized) filled with a white powder and a rock-like substance were located. Several empty bags were also allegedly
98 rounds of ammunition recovered after car thief arrested
MARLBOROUGH – A series of random items, including 98 rounds of ammunition, were found after police arrested a man who allegedly continually broke into cars around Marlborough.
At about 8:26 p.m. on Oct. 22, Marlborough Police Department officers responded to an address on Arnold Street after a report of a male party breaking into motor vehicles. The caller, a juvenile, observed that a man walked into his
driveway, entered his grandmother’s car, and started rummaging through the vehicle.
The caller alleged that he had previously seen the man pulling the door-handles of other vehicles parked in the roadway in front of the home. Officers located the man in the backyard of a house near Arnold Street; the man was allegedly trying to pick up a backpack-style leaf-blower.
When police asked the man what he was doing, he alleg-
edly said he was doing contractor work in the area and looking for his missing stuff, though he was unable to provide a name for the company he worked for, or an address of anyone on Arnold Street. “This man was unable to provide any reasonable explanation for being in the backyard of … Arnold Street with bags of property and a leaf blower,” police wrote.
Units secured the man in handcuffs and looked into a
bag he was carrying. Inside the bag, police allegedly observed multiple boxes of ammunition, including 6-shot moon clips, 50 rounds of .357 Magnum bullets, and 42 rounds of .45 Auto bullets. There were 98 rounds of ammunition in total.
The man, identified as Richard Kenny, 41, did not have an active FID or LTC card.
Other items were seized as evidence, including $32.06 in change, two pairs of AirPods, one cleaning kit, six pairs of
found, along with fentanyl, straws, and copper mesh.
The total amount of fentanyl was 11.47 grams, and the total amount of cocaine was 7.86 grams, according to court documents.
Negron is being charged with resisting arrest, possession of a Class B substance, and fentanyl trafficking.
sunglasses, construction supplies, two laptops, one wallet containing the identity of a different person, one pair of women’s shoes, and one landscaping sweatshirt.
Kenny is being charged with possession of ammunition without a firearms license, trespassing, nighttime breaking and entering with intent to commit a felony, and several counts of breaking into a vehicle.
Marlborough appoints city’s first deputy police chief
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
MARLBOROUGH – For the first time in the city’s history, Marlborough has a deputy police chief.
Daniel Campbell was appointed by the city council on Oct. 6.
“Deputy Chief Campbell brings proven experience, a strong record of innovation and a deep commitment to public safety. His leadership has been vital in advancing officer training, modernizing department policies, and building community focused programs such as the Youth Academy,” said Mayor J. Christian Dumais in a statement.
With Campbell being the first deputy chief, Police Chief David Giorgi said the support from both the mayor and the City Council was vital.
“We appreciate the confidence you have shown in the
officers of our department and we now extend the same confidence to Deputy Chief Campbell as he steps into his new role and assumes his new duties,” Giorgi said.
Campbell has been a police officer with the city since 2006 and a command officer since 2013. He was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in 2018 and has served as an acting captain since 2024.
“Every day I will strive to make our department stronger, support our officers, and to build an even better relationship with the community we serve. It is an honor to take on this role. I look forward to working together to make Marlborough proud,” said Campbell.
Daniel Campbell was appointed by the city council on Oct. 6.
COMMUNITY OBITUARIES
The Community Advocate will post obituaries online (and in print, as space allows). Please send information (and a picture if desired) to tracy@communityadvocate.com. Here is a complete list of individual obituaries posted on the Community Advocate website (www.communityadvocate.com).
DEATHS
Ahronian, Lynn of Westborough Allen, Kathryn raised in Southborough Atchue, Muriel of Grafton
Aucoin, Kevin of Northborough Bairos, Viola of Hudson Bouvier, June of Shrewsbury D’Errico, Thomas of Shrewsbury Edison, Stuart of Marlborough Gilliat, Frank of Marlborough Gordon, Josephine of Grafton Joseph, Elaine of Shrewsbury Keiler, Mark of Shrewsbury Leandres, Neli of Hudson Letourneau, William of Grafton Maynard, Doris of Shrewsbury and Grafton
McCormack, Donald of Southborough Pattison, Thomas of Hudson Tervo, Trudy formerly of Hudson Thomas, Bernadeetha of Shrewsbury Thompson, Gail of Hudson Walter, Margo of Southborough
Kevin P. Aucoin, 63
NORTHBOROUGH – In the quiet morning hours of Friday, October 24, 2025, without warning, Kevin took his final rest - leaving this world as gently and peacefully as the fading notes of his saxophone. Kevin Peter Aucoin, a lifelong resident of Northborough and accomplished saxophone player, passed away at home after experiencing an acute medical episode. He was 63
Westborough Office Space
to Routes 9, 495 and
years old.
Surviving Kevin is his sister, Denise Aucoin with whom he lived; his aunt, Mary foreman of Thousand Oaks, California and his beloved cats, Ebony and Brady. He was preceded by his father in 1992 and his mother in 2022.
Friends are invited to gather for Kevin’s Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, at St. Rose of Lima Parish, 244 W. Main Street, Northborough. There are no public calling hours planned.
Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.
Elaine E. Joseph, 87
SHREWSBURY – Elaine E. (Massad) Joseph died in the comfort of her home with family on Monday, October 20, 2025. She was 87. Beloved wife of the late Richard N. Joseph, Sr.
She leaves her children, Richard N. ‘Richie’ Joseph Jr. (Mary Anne) and Wendy A. Tomaiolo (late Leonard ‘Lenny’) all of Shrewsbury; her grandchildren, Lindsey A. and Lacey A. Tomaiolo, Richie P. and Tyler T. Joseph; her sister, Frances R. Wilson of Jupiter, Florida; in-laws, Carol Joseph (late Robert) and Jacqueline Barrett (Thomas) all of Worcester; also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Arrangements by James + John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home of Waltham.
Neli Leandres, 74
HUDSON – Neli Moura Leandres, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and aunt, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, at the age of 74, surrounded by her cherished family. Throughout her life, Neli took immense pride in her family, especially her son,
Kyle, who was her “Pride and Joy.” Neli is survived by her husband, Joseph G. Leandres of Hudson, MA; her son, Kyle Leandres and his wife Emily of Hudson, MA; her sister, Elia Gilles and her husband Michael of Boston, MA; her brother, Alvaro Moura and his wife Cathy of Hudson, MA; her sister-in-law, Isabel Moura, wife of the late Helder Moura of Florida; her niece, Nikki Gilles of Hudson, MA; her nephew, Ryan Gilles and his wife Mary and their son Michael of Boston, MA; and her niece, Sonia Hare and her husband Alex of Brighton, MA. She also leaves cousins, other relatives and close friends. Neli was predeceased by her parents, Norberto Moura and Maria Jose (Travassos) Moura and her father in law Luis Leandres. Her life will be celebrated through the loving memories held by her family and friends.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted the family.
‘This was an outstanding team win’ Shrewsbury field hockey ‘locks in’ to defeat Doherty
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Protecting a one-goal lead with seven minutes remaining, the Shrewsbury field hockey team huddled around Head Coach Abby Turgeon. With Doherty, the opponent, across the field scheming ways to draw even, Turgeon told her players that in these big moments, they needed to “lock in.”
Inspired by their coach and understanding the stakes, the Colonials took the field motivated and focused. After seven stressful minutes — and several heroic saves from goalie Aarika Singh — Shrewsbury came out ahead, defeating Doherty, 2-1, at David J. Adams Memorial Field on Oct. 20.
Turgeon knew her players had it within them to get the gutsy win.
New England Patriots legends visit Hudson COMMUNITY SPORTS
HUDSON – As part of the New England Patriots Nike Rivalries Game, former Patriots David Andrews and Brian Hoyer visited Morgan Bowl on Oct. 24 to watch the Hudson Hawks, the defending Division 6 champion, defeat the West Boylston
“When there’s that pressure, I always say we have to rely on what we’re good at. It’s during those high-pressure moments where we have all this anxiety and stress, and we rely on what we do well. We’re good at communicating, we’re good at hustling,” said Turgeon. “And that’s how we got the win.”
The Colonials are no strangers to close games.
In the last two weeks, the team had lost, 1-0, to great Wachusett and Westborough teams. Entering action, Shrewsbury’s latest match (against Algonquin) ended in a scoreless draw.
Competing came naturally for the Colonials — now it was just about finishing. In the first quarter, senior captain Kennedy Lane provided a spark, scoring Shrewsbury’s first goal since an Oct. 6 game against Grafton.
“It just felt amazing. I think the energy was really high from the second we all got here today, which really made a difference. We’ve really been working on that, so that was helpful for us,” said Lane.
Sophomore Maggie Zidonis added to the Colonials’ lead later in the game.
“This was an outstanding team win. No matter who scored, no matter who got the ball, it was a high-energy game. It’s something we’ve been practicing since the beginning. We played all four quarters,” said Turgeon.
Added Caroline Ganger, a Shrewsbury senior captain: “I think we just tried so hard the last three quarters — we couldn’t let it go, we put in so much work to win. I’m really proud of everybody. We worked hard, and we deserve this win.”
A year removed from going
1-15-2, the Colonials (8-5-3) are almost certainly playoff bound. At the time of publication, they’re the No. 19 team in Division 1.
The Colonials are locked (in) and loaded for a tournament run.
“We’re feeling great,” said
senior captain Emma Ellis. “We’re all ready to keep going, and we’re ready to make a run. We’re taking in one game, one practice at a time, and we’re just enjoying each other, the skills that we’re building, and the community we’re growing.”
Lions, the defending Division 8 champion.
Pat Patriot and New England Patriots cheerleaders were also at Morgan Bowl to celebrate. The game was Hudson’s Senior Night. Photos from the action are courtesy of Owen Jones Photo.
Three junior captains are leading Grafton girls’ soccer forward
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON – A junior captain is rare. Three of them? On one team? Almost unheard of.
But that’s exactly what’s happening on the Grafton girls’ soccer team. As juniors, three members of the Class of 2027 – Kenley Fletcher, Aoife Campbell, and Addy Harrington – are leading the Gators as they look to continue their winning ways.
“I love it. They’re my best friends,” Fletcher told the Community Advocate. “I remember we said to each other that this was the best-case scenario. Not only are we able to work together, but we’re already so close, so that makes it easy. My ideas collaborate with theirs.”
All three talented juniors made the varsity team as freshmen, part of an 18-win Grafton squad that advanced to the MIAA Division 2 quarterfinals. Sophomore year, they were the youngsters on the pitch as the Gators made another deep push into the playoffs.
But over an offseason, the
WESTBOROUGH SHOPPING CENTER
team’s youth became its leaders. The team took a vote to name its captains, and once the results were revealed, Fletcher, Campbell, and Harrington went from underclassmen to captains in an instant.
“It happened quickly. There was a point where I was like, ‘Holy crap, they’re upperclassmen already,’” said Grafton Head Coach Matt Bazinet, who earned his 100th career win this season. “They have that mentality – it’s about the team, and nobody outshines each other. Nobody is chasing individual stats. They’re in it for one another.”
On the pitch as underclassmen, and friends with past Grafton leaders, the trio felt comfortable stepping into the role. In their first few months at the helm, the new captains of the Gators have worked to push their teammates to be their best.
“Last year, we didn’t have a captain role, but we were close with the seniors and we knew what was going on around the field,” said Campbell. “We
know when to push each other. We can make each other better. That’s how you get better – knowing when to push one another.”
Added Harrington: “We try to make it so whatever happens benefits the team the most. We’ve done a lot of work making the team closer. We’re all super close. Just because we have the captains’ bands, it doesn’t mean that we’re the only ones that have a say.”
The positive culture the captains have developed has withstood some adversity. After a difficult start to the year – Grafton is adjusting to the Midland-Wachusett League –the team persevered and has had a successful end of the season.
“We got off to a rocky start, but that teamwork – doing stuff together, not getting mad at each other, staying positive – is why we started stringing wins together. That’s what makes them such great leaders – they do so much outside the field,” said Bazinet.
