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HOPKINTON INDEPENDENT Vol. 25 | No. 25 | December 11, 2024

Select Board gets details on town’s swatting response

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

T

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

he Select Board heard from public safety and school leaders Dec. 3 about their collective response to a swatting incident that occurred at Hopkinton High School on Oct. 1 and the concerns the false report arose in residents about student safety.

Swatting is a criminal act where false reports of an emergency are made to provoke a large-scale law enforcement action. According to a recent CNN.com article, the practice of swatting has escalated in recent years, with the intended targets including schools, public and religious institutions, politicians and celebrities.

Chair Brian Herr said he felt it was important to discuss this issue in a public meeting, as it has been “of great concern to the community.” He also noted that that some specifics could not be relayed because sharing them would compromise safety tactics.

Hopkinton Police Chief Joseph Bennett led the discussion by describing the

IN STEP

Hopkinton seventh grader Harper Shepard dribbles the ball up the court against a ConcordCarlisle defender during the Hopkinton Basketball Association’s 24th annual Tap-Off Tournament on Nov. 23.

Swatting | 12

INSIDE

‘Informal’ Trails Club celebrates 20 years

POLICE

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

Ex-HPD’s Porter trial Pushed back to May

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Trails Club | 6

COMMUNITY

Residents cautioned about social host laws

5

NEWS

PHOTO/JOHN RITZ

ot a lot of clubs can boast about being around for 20 years. Far fewer can hold that distinction with as loose a structure as the Hopkinton Trails Club.

“I’m impressed it’s gone on this long, considering how informal we are,” said John Ritz, co-chair of the Hopkinton Trails Club.

“It’s surprising it’s held together,” he added.

The Hopkinton Trails Club (HTC) is a group of area residents “dedicated to enjoying and enhancing the existing trails in town while promoting the creation of new trails and improving trail connections throughout the com-

5

Hikers and members of the Hopkinton Trails Club pose for a picture during the club’s 20th anniversary walk at College Rock Park.

Momentum grows for Center School plan

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2 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024

Hopkinton Independent The Hopkinton Independent is published by Hopkinton Independent, LLC, 32 South St., Westborough, MA 01581. The publisher assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors or errors in advertisements, but will reprint that portion of the ad that was in error if notified in writing within three business days of the publication date. All material is the property of the Hopkinton Independent.

Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material. The Hopkinton Independent is delivered by the U.S. Postal Service to 100 percent of the homes and businesses in Hopkinton, reaching more than 7,700 addresses.

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Planning Board reviews updates on key development projects

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

T

he Planning Board at its meeting Dec. 2 received new information regarding several important development projects, including The Trails and the mixed-use housing development proposed to replace the former Hopkinton Drug building on Main Street.

Vin Gately, the owner of The Trails, appeared before the board to discuss the issue of road damage on Wilson Street that the Department of Public Works in May described as originating from that development. He was adamant that not all of the damage came from his property and that some issues predated its construction.

Gately explained that The Trails has about 500 feet of frontage along a 3,000foot stretch of Wilson Street that goes to the Ashland border. Because Wilson Street runs downhill for 1,000 feet before reaching The Trails, Gately said his property is not responsible for the damage caused by water from the land at a higher elevation.

He added that the Planning Board in 2019 had approved the stormwater management plan for The Trails. This plan later proved to be insufficient, as flooding issues have negatively impacted Ashland’s water supply and prompted the Conservation Commission to assess fines for stormwater management violations.

Gately noted that there was significant rainfall in 2021 and 2023 that taxed the stormwater management system’s capabilities. But he also said that the town must take responsibility for what he believes is its role in the street’s condition, which he said has been poor for 60 years.

“The town, at least in my judgment, should address this because there’s been a drainage problem on that street for years,” said Gately. “They’re expecting us to bring that road up to current town standards.”

He proposed that he and project engineer Peter Bemis meet with key town stakeholders, including DPW Director Kerry Reed, to move past this “impasse.”

He has been communicating with Reed via email.

“At this point, I’m not willing to spend any more engineering dollars,” said Gately.

Principal Planner John Gelcich said he did not believe a meeting would be beneficial if Gately is unwilling to spend any money on engineering. Later in the meeting, Gately said he would be able

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to “support the project with engineering dollars” if both sides came to the table to work out a resolution.

Gelcich also pointed out that the review revolving account with Gately is in arrears, which would prevent a peer review consultant from participating in this meeting until the balance is paid.

He also took issue with some of Gately’s criticisms. Gelcich noted that there have been “ongoing issues with the site,” including its being cleared rather than following a phased approach. This caused “silty soil” to infiltrate Ashland’s reservoir. Modifications made to The Trails’ drainage system were done “because it didn’t work.”

Chair Rob Benson said the only alternative the Planning Board had was to raise the $75,000 bond on the project to cover the cost of repairing the road. The Trails is currently in its fourth phase of construction.

He added that if the parties could not meet and come to an agreement by the board’s Jan. 27 meeting, the board would have to raise the bond.

Hearing for Hopkinton Drug property continued The major site plan hearing regarding a proposed multifamily mixed use development at 48-52 Main Street that also includes an abutting property at 6 Cedar Street was continued. This is the former location of Hopkinton Drug.

Kathleen Reale, who owns an adjacent property at 8 Cedar Street, raised several concerns to the board and requested a site walk of her property. Her property contains small businesses on the first floor, including her own, and a two-bedroom apartment she rents out on the second floor.

Reale said she was concerned about the size of the project as well as its proximity to her property. Also, from her property’s perspective, the proposed above-ground parking garage will be two stories tall, causing noise, light and gasoline emissions to affect her tenants.

She added that while there are zoning bylaws in place for parking lots, none exists for parking garages.

Benson suggested a site walk that would take Reale’s concerns into account, and members were amenable to one on Dec. 14 at 9 a.m.. Vice chair Matthew Wronka also suggested that the developer Planning Board | 3

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The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024 • 3

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Planning Board reviews updates Planning Board | from page 2

provide a rendering from that perspective of the project.

Member Lucia Lopez stressed that members of the public are welcome to attend site walks.

Benson Road hearing continued The hearing for an amended definitive subdivision plan for 0 Benson Road was continued until Jan. 6, as all parties involved were not present. The decision deadline was moved to Jan. 13.

The chair commented that the applicant had been seeking an open space parcel for the Benson Road land that had been slated to be donated to the Hopkinton Area Land Trust several years ago that HALT no longer wants. He said that he had discussed the situation with an Open Space Preservation Commission member over the previous week and learned that the OSPC generally seeks out the parcels it would like to acquire.

“The general feeling was that it would be very hard for this developer to find a parcel that [the OSPC] would be interested in that would be financially viable for them to buy,” Benson said.

Cedar Street parking permit request reviewed The board continued a special

Closed December 2024

parking permit hearing for off-street parking for a four-unit development proposed at 18 Cedar Street.

Jack Nealon represented the applicant, Janice Brown. He noted that from 1900-2018, this had been a singlefamily residence at the edge of the downtown business district. His client purchased the home there, and it was in serious disrepair. She received a special permit earlier this year to construct four one-bedroom units in a two-story building.

He noted that the building was located further back on the lot so that the site could accommodate 11 parking spaces. Parking would be located at the corner of Cedar and A streets.

Gelcich noted that this is “a unique situation” because the parking is located between the building and a roadway.

Benson suggested a site walk on Dec. 14 at 9:30 a.m. The board continued the hearing to Dec. 16.

Remaining lots for Newbury Glen released The board voted 8-0 to reduce the remaining bond on the Newbury Glen (formerly called Elmwood Farms III) subdivision off Blueberry Lane from $2,686,000 to $1,021,965 now that roadwork construction has been performed. It also voted to endorse releasing the remaining lots on the project by the same margin.

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4 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024

Discussions underway about West Main Street bakery proposal

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

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he Conservation Commission at its meeting Nov. 26 voted 6-0 to continue a hearing regarding a proposed bakery at 71 West Main Street so that the applicant could update the plans.

Formerly the home of Main Street Cleaners, the long-vacant building is the easternmost of two small, freestanding structures on the south side of West Main Street.

The main point of contention during the hearing was the placement of two trash receptacles in the 50-foot buffer zone.

Applicant Jay Gallant, a principal of Paxton-based Gallant Architecture + Construction, said two roll-away bins would be more appropriate than a dumpster because “the business doesn’t generate a lot of waste.”

The receptacles were planned to be located to the south of the garage behind the driveway, about 10 feet away from the building, to give them “breathing room” from the bakery. The receptacles, Gallant said, would be enclosed in a plastic covering to keep out animals. He later added that he would be willing to move the receptacles closer to the driveway and out of the 50foot buffer zone if the commission desired it.

Gallant also explained that a shed currently located in the 50-foot buffer zone that had fallen into disrepair would be removed. Native plantings recommended by the commission are

bers of the commission agreed that it was intermittent as opposed to perennial.

Gallant had sought a request for determination of applicability (RDA) at this hearing.

Because the stream is considered intermittent, an RDA would not apply because it is not considered a riverfront area.

Member Matt Moyen pointed out that it would need to be considered for a notice of intent (NOI) if the trash receptacles The proposed bakery would use this building at 71 West Main Street. are not removed from the buffer zone.

Added Recos: “The proposed to replace it. A walkway also was proposed within the closer [the trash receptacle area] is to the 50-100-foot buffer zone. wetlands, the easier things are to migrate Member Ted Barker-Hook said that while he was pleased out into the wetlands.” that the shed was being removed from the buffer zone, the placeRecos said the plans should be updated ment of the trash receptacles there would take up more space in to indicate where the receptacles would be the buffer zone than the shed currently does. located and presented at the next meeting Said Barker-Hook: “I feel a little guilty being a stickler, but on Dec. 17. not guilty enough to keep my mouth closed.”

In his review, wetlands consultant Joe Orzell pointed out Tree removal approved that an intermittent stream flows northward toward the site. The at Woodville Fire Station plans presented made no reference to an intermittent stream east of the site. This second stream was mentioned in an order The Hopkinton Fire Department via of resource area delineation (ORAD) plan the commission apDepartment of Public Works Director Kerry proved in 2016 as the primary stream channel.

Reed requested that four hazardous trees be Because of this discrepancy, Orzell advised that the applicant removed from the Woodville Fire Station get a definitive determination and watershed analysis to determine property at 238 Wood Street. “which stream is carrying the flow” to the south of the site.

“Three of the trees along the property Given the proposed use of the building, chair Melisa Recos were very clearly dead,” explained Anna said she didn’t believe this analysis was necessary in order to Rogers, the town’s environmental and document the intermittent stream east of the site. Other meminspectional services coordinator. She explained that she and conservation administrator Judy Day were able to approve their removal administratively.

The fourth tree, located at the center of H the property, has been dropping branches on the building’s roof, which is about to be replaced, according to Rogers. While not dead, parts of the tree are rotting and missPainting & Carpentry H Power Washing ing bark. This tree is under the ConservaDeck Refinishing H Exterior & Interior tion Commission’s jurisdiction, as it is near Whitehall Brook.

FULLY INSURED Typically, trees are replaced at a 2-to1 ratio, Rogers said. She added that Chief Call Tiago Gary Daugherty was amenable to providing replacement plantings as part of its plan for an addition to the building “over the next few years,” which will be presented to the commission then.

The decision to allow for the trees’ removal and a delay in the replacement planting did not require a vote. Recos said she would draft a letter of approval. DPW would remove the four trees.

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Commission members briefly discussed its goals for the upcoming year under the new conservation administrator. The town requested that the goals be documented formally, according to Recos.

The biggest target Recos had was to educate the public about the commission’s work.

Helping people understand the concepts of permanent immovable barriers, wetlands and other terms that are commonly used during commission hearings ultimately would help the public as well as the commission.

Member Jim Ciriello agreed, adding that education also is needed about certificates of compliance and deed restrictions. Recos proposed that the commission have a booth at community events to share information.

Recos also is in the process of writing an annual report on the commission’s work.

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The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024 • 5

Town officials remind residents of social host laws

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

T

he holiday season brings more opportunities to gather and enjoy the company of friends and family. But parties where underage individuals are supplied alcohol or adults overindulge and engage in dangerous behaviors could land hosts in hot water.

This is the message from both the Hopkinton Police Department and Hopkinton Organizing for Prevention. The organizations recently publicized information about Massachusetts’ Social Host Law outlining the responsibilities and liabilities of anyone considering furnishing minors with alcohol.

“This is the biggest time of year for people to get together and celebrate with each other,” said HPD Detective Sgt. Gregg DeBoer.

“We want people to be aware of the ramifications [of this law],” he added.

Under the Social Host Law, any adult or minor who is “in control” of a property and either supplies alcohol or allows it to be consumed by minors on that property can be held responsible, both in criminal and civil courts.

The punishment for violating the law could result in a $2,000 fine, up to a year imprisonment or both.

Social hosts — both adults and minors — can be held civilly liable as well, which could cause significant financial hardship.

This is true even in situations where parents might not be aware an event with underage drinking is occurring on their property. DeBoer said that the HPD has encountered situations where parents were unaware minors were consuming alcohol on their property.

“That’s kind of your responsibility as a parent to know what’s going on at your house,” he said.

He went on to explain that the liability under the Social Host Law mirrors the liability restaurants take on when serving alcohol to customers.

Stressed DeBoer: “Your guests are your responsibility.”

While the law focuses on curbing

underage drinking, it does not stop there, according to DeBoer. Under state law, social host liability extends to adults who over-consume and engage in dangerous behaviors, such as impaired driving.

“We want people to enjoy themselves and have a good time, but do it in a responsible way that doesn’t put others at risk,” said DeBoer.

Both the HPD and Hopkinton Organizing for Prevention (HOP) want residents to understand how these laws work and how parents can prevent underage drinking and substance abuse.

“The laws only work if the community is aware of them,” said Lauren Mayer, the regional prevention coordinator at Hopkinton Youth & Family Services. Mayer heads up HOP, which is run as part of the Youth & Family Services department.

“The mission of HOP is to make the community aware of these laws so we can prevent substance abuse,” Mayer said.

HOP has been working on spreading this information through multiple campaigns.

During prom season earlier this year, the organization worked with BoMain Pizza, Bar & Grill to educate restaurant patrons and residents. It placed “tiered pop-ups” featuring information on social host liability throughout the restaurant.

It also is using data gathered from the community to change perceptions about substance abuse.

According to Mayer, surveys sent to parents and students show a disparity between perceived and actual substance use.

“We’re finding the perception that there is more student [substance use], where data is not always proving that to be the case,” she said.

She hopes work done to change those perceptions help “so that students don’t feel a pressure to use.”

Both DeBoer and Mayer assert that the Social Host law is not something to be afraid of. Rather, it is a tool meant to help reduce minors’ access to alcohol and other dangerous situations.

“It’s proven to be one of the best strategies to prevent underage drinking,” said Mayer.

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Porter trial pushed back to May

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

T

he jury trial of former Hopkinton Police Department Deputy Chief John “Jay” Porter originally scheduled to begin on Dec. 9 has been pushed back to May 12, 2025, at Porter’s request, according to court records and confirmation from a Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office spokesperson.

This is the second time the highly anticipated trial has been delayed. Judge Laurence D. Pierce on March 28 rescheduled Porter’s jury trial to Dec. 9 from Sept.

16 at the request of both attorneys involved in the case. The reasoning behind the decision then was that Judge James Budreau, who had been presiding over the case, was going to be out of town until the following week. Because of Budreau’s familiarity with the case and the opportunity to gather more information, Assistant District Attorney Maren Schrader and defense counsel Leonardo Angiulo agreed.

During that hearing, Pierce explained that Budreau was going to be transferred to the civil court from the criminal court.

Pierce said he believed at that time that Budreau would be able to continue presiding over the case. But Sarah Lamson, a Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office spokesperson, on Tuesday noted in an email to the Independent that “Judge Patrick Haggan will be presiding as he has since April of this year.”

A trial readiness conference that had been scheduled with Haggan on Nov. 12 was rescheduled to April 10, 2025, at Middlesex Superior Court in Woburn, according to the masscourts.org website.

Lamson added that “the rescheduling was at the request of the defendant.”

Porter has been accused of three counts of child rape that the alleged survivor said occurred two decades ago during his stint as a school resource officer when she was a Hopkinton High School sophomore.

The alleged survivor had reported information about the alleged assaults to former HPD Sgt. Timothy Brennan, who urged her to bring her accusations to the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office. His decision not to immediately report

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6 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024

Trails Club looks forward as it celebrates 20 years Trails Club | from page 1

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munity,” according to the organization’s website.

Resident Liisa Jackson co-founded the club in 2005 with Matt Zettek and Beth Rohlfs after learning there was no entity responsible for the town’s trails. Run independently from the town, the HTC focused its early work on researching and making recommendations for governing trail use and maintenance in Hopkinton.

Eventually the group’s goals shifted, and it began to focus on bringing together residents interested in exploring and advocating for the town’s trail systems.

The HTC’s impact since its founding is impressive. Its accomplishments include developing the Center Trail, Echo Trail and the Hughes Farm Trail, donating thousands of dollars worth of trail maintenance, advising the town on trail-related matters and helping persuade the town to establish the Trails Coordination and Management Committee (also known as the Trails Committee).

Today, the group continues to hold monthly trail workdays and walks. It also provides regular recommendations to the town about the trail systems and helps organize trail walks for different organizations in town.

All of the HTC’s accomplishments have come without a defined organizational structure. Although the club is run by two co-chairs, it does not collect fees, hold regular votes or establish any committee assignments.

“There hasn’t been an overriding need to make it any more formal than it is,” Ritz said.

The only vote in the group’s history was to determine its leadership structure after Jackson, Zettek and Rohlfs resigned as co-chairs, according to Ritz.

Ritz indicated the group considered making the group more structured in the past, but members decided against it.

“We say: ‘Why? What is it going to get us?’ ” said Ritz. “We don’t need to be collecting donations, we don’t have any expenses. … [There’s] no need for that level of formality.”

Although numbers fluctuate, Ritz says that the HTC has 6-8 recurring members who regularly attend meetings and trail events.

These members bring experience from trails

committees, land management, land trusts and forestry to their work with the club.

“We have experts we can bring out,” said Ritz.

It’s hard to measure the full value of HTC volunteers’ expertise and work on the town trails, though the club has tried to quantify it to some degree.

In a statement Ritz gave to the Select Board on Oct. 15, he estimated that since the HTC began its monthly workdays, the club had completed almost 900 volunteer hours of trail work.

“This year alone, the value of our work is just over $13,000,” Ritz said to the Select Board, citing the current value of an hour of volunteer work in Massachusetts at $40.97.

“Since it was formed, the club’s volunteers have provided more than $42,000 worth of work to the town,” he added.

Even though the club has reached its 20-year milestone, it’s not resting on its laurels. Members continue to push for more projects and improvements in trail governance.

Regarding the recent dissolution of both the Trails Committee and the Upper Charles Trails Committee, Ritz says the HTC has provided thoughts about potential restructuring of the town’s own trails organization.

“It’s not a bad idea to reform it,” said Ritz. “It seems like a good time to reinvigorate ... maybe get some younger folks [involved].”

Ritz also reported that the club is focused on a number of potential projects in town. Seeing the Hopkinton portion of the Upper Charles Trail completed is on the group’s wish list.

Another project is reestablishing a trail from the Chamberlain-Whalen development all the way out to Berry Acres.

“The trails have always been there,” said Ritz.

“We’re going to get them reopened as formal trails.”

In the meantime, the HTC continues to advocate for greater trail connectivity and works to connect people to parts of town they might not otherwise know about. “[We plan] to keep informing people of the trails we have in town and getting them used to using them,” Ritz said. “Continuing that advocacy is what we’re all about.”

Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week E

ach week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton. This week, we feature 2-year-old Izzy.

Here is Baypath’s description of Izzy: “Izzy is the kind of dog who steals hearts the moment you meet her. With her lovable, gentle nature, she’s the perfect balance of playful and calm. Her energy level is just right — enough to enjoy fun, yet calm enough to relax by your side after a play session.

“Izzy’s favorite part of the day? When you come home! She gets so excited to see her people, wagging her tail and showing her joy with a few happy hops. She’s a loyal companion who thrives on love and attention but doesn’t demand constant stimulation.

Izzy would do well with a playmate or in a home where she can get daily exercise, but she’s not the type of dog that requires constant action.

“If you’re looking for a dog who will greet you with a wagging tail, bring joy to your home without overwhelming you, and be your best friend through it all, Izzy might be the perfect fit!”

For more information about Izzy and any of the other available pets at Baypath, email adopt@ baypathhumane.org or visit baypathhumane.org/adopt.

For more Adoptable Animals of the Week, check the Hopkinton Independent website at HopkintonIndependent.com.

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024 • 7

CPC reviews funding requests for Center School, adaptive playground

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

T

he Community Preservation Commission at its meeting Nov. 21 discussed the two most expensive requests for fiscal year 2026 funding, including an adaptive playground and the renovation of the former Center School building.

Under the Community Preservation Act that was signed in 2000, Massachusetts communities may add a surcharge on top of their local property taxes to fund open space, historic preservation, outdoor recreation and affordable housing projects.

The current rate for Hopkinton is 2%. At least 10% of CPA funding must be spent on each of these four categories, with the rest available for any category. The CPC administers the allocation of these funds based on submitted proposals.

The adaptive playground proposal received mixed reviews from members who questioned the need for it given the amount of playground space in town. Also, members pointed out that its proposed location next to the Elmwood School made it appear to be more of a School Department ask than a recreational one.

Before the presentation, Susan Rothermich, the school’s assistant superintendent for finance and operations, pointed out that the projected cost is less than previously thought. It originally was estimated to cost between $1.6 million and $2.1 million. The current proposed project is slated to cost about $1.2 million.

Nathan Socha, the designer of the adaptive playground selected by the Adaptive Playground Committee, gave a presentation showing the equipment and layout of the proposed project. While 32 buildable sites were initially considered, the site next to the Marathon School was chosen unanimously over the Fruit Street soccer fields.

The final design concept, he explained, evolved after a series of meetings.

Its goal was to develop a playground in town that is accessible to people of all abilities that would provide opportunities for physical, sensory and social activity via inclusive play elements. Socha stressed that the playground was designed so that children of all abilities would be able to play together.

After tabulating the more than 250 survey responses received, the committee determined that the most requested elements included adaptive swings, slides, climbing structures and sensory play elements. While the playground is targeted to serve children ages 2-12 “as an inclusive playground, there really is no age limit,” according to Socha.

Concerns arose about the playground primarily used by the schools. Member Jim Ciriello said the proposal needs a “larger, widespread discussion at Town Meeting.”

Chair Ken Weismantel said this would occur if the CPC recommends it to Town Meeting in May. Added Ciriello: “I don’t really think that CPA money should be used for a School Department large project.”

Rothermich clarified that the adaptive playground could not be part of the Charleswood School project due to stipulations by the Massachusetts School Building Authority. The playground would be open during non-school hours, as other school facilities are.

Member Eric Sonnett said he has “a problem” with the location, noting that it would not be accessible to all children “on a consistent basis.” He also mentioned that

it appeared to be more of a School Department project than a town one.

Countered Rothermich: “It is a playground at the school.”

Member Steve Levandosky agreed, noting that he would be “more comfortable” if the CPC funded a portion of the project if the rest were included in the School Department budget. He also suggested that adaptive features could be added to town playgrounds over time.

Amy Porter Wareham, a member of the Adaptive Playground Committee, said that Hopkinton is somewhat unique in that it keeps a higher percentage of its students requiring special education in town. They would be able to utilize this playground.

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Center School study gets good feedback The Center School proposal received a warmer reception, as members noted it would provide needed space for town departments as well as downtown parking. It also would be a public/private partnership with the Hopkinton Center for the Arts that would attract people to the area. It would renovate the historic 1928 section while tearing down the two rear sections.

Permanent Building Committee chair Dan McIntyre noted that the Center School would be a good location for the Parks & Recreation and Youth & Family Services departments. It would also provide a community meeting room and other shared activity areas. There would be space for HCA classes and the potential to eventually add on a dance studio that would be funded by the HCA. The current CPC request is for $600,000 for a planning study. Weismantel said he needed Select Board input as to whether it would be receptive to supporting this concept for Center School reuse.

The demolition work and renovations and upgrades to the 1928 building are expected to cost between $8 million and $10 million.

HCA executive director Kelly Grill added that there is potential state and federal grant and earmark funding for the renovation project. But the plans are necessary to initiate the process. Grill also has started fundraising for the HCA office space in the 1928 building.

She added that the three entities already are working together and would benefit from the shared space at the Center School.

Members will discuss their recommendations at the next meeting on Dec. 12.

The CPC’s quarterly meeting was moved to Dec. 19.

93 EAST MAIN ST. HOPKINTON, MA

Porter trial pushed back to May Porter trial | from page 5

these allegations to HPD Chief Joseph Bennett led to a controversial two-part Loudermill hearing that led to Brennan’s termination effective Feb. 12.

Brennan’s termination in turn spurred public outcry from residents who petitioned for his reinstatement and accused Bennett and the Select Board of improper conduct after an improperly redacted investigation report of an interview with Brennan released the alleged survivor’s first name and other identifying information. This interview was conducted as part of a criminal investigation into Porter’s conduct.

HopkintonIndependent.com

8 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024

For more information on any of the following programs or other activities at the library, visit hopkintonlibrary.org. Visit the library’s website calendar for event registration information. The library also can be found on Facebook, @hopkintonlibrary, and on X, @HopkintonPLMA.

LIBRARY CORNER

Women and Money Round Table

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 1-2 p.m.

In this virtual program, individuals will learn all about today’s financial markets from two women who watch it closely: financial advisors Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone. This series is a virtual, monthly financial literacy program designed to educate women in all walks of life learn about financial matters in a welcoming environment where they can ask questions and share financial experiences.

Author Talk: PulsePounding, Family Driven Mysteries

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2-3:30 p.m.

This virtual conversation is with the New York Times bestselling author of “The Last Thing He Told Me,” Laura Dave. She will chat about her newest book, “The Night We Lost Him.”

YA RPG Club

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 6-7:45 p.m.

Every other Wednesday is an evening of imagination and skill. Participants will play Dungeons & Dragons, Magic the Gathering and other dice, card and tabletop role-playing games.

This program is open to Grade 5 and up.

Registration is appreciated. New players are always welcome.

Frayed Knot Fiber Arts Circle

Thursday, Dec. 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Participants are invited to bring their current project or pattern. This group is open to teens and adults of all skill levels. All fiber arts crafts (knitting, crochet, needlepoint, cross-stitch,

needle felting, etc.) are welcome. Anyone with questions should email Jak at jmiller@hopkintonma.gov.

Red Cross Blood Drive

Tuesday, Dec. 17, 1-6 p.m.

Registration can be found at rcblood. org/3AmuYsP.

Monthly Music & Movement

Wednesday, Dec. 18, 10:30-11:15 a.m.

This month’s children’s concert, supported by the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation, is with Evan Haller.

It’s recommended for ages 0-5.

Chat ’n’ Chew Book Group

Wednesday, Dec. 18, 12:30-2 p.m.

Instead of assigning a book for all participants to read, each person reviews something they read this month. Those interested should register to receive information for joining. Everyone is welcome, including newcomers. For more information, contact Nanci Hill at nhill@hopkintonma.gov.

Fortnite Tournament with One Up Games

Thursday, Dec. 19, 6-8 p.m.

This virtual tournament is run by One Up Games in collaboration with other local libraries. Individuals will play right from the comfort of their own home on their own Xbox One/Series X/S, PlayStation 4/5, Nintendo Switch or PC. Participants must have their own gaming platform, online connection and copy of the game. Those interested in playing should email jdyment@hopkintonma.gov to register.

Friends of the Library Annual Meeting

Wednesday, Jan. 8, 6:30 p.m.

The annual meeting of the Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library will be held on Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library. All members are invited to attend. The agenda will include election of officers, approval of the dues structure and affirmation of regular business. The annual meeting will be followed by the January board meeting.

The Hopkinton Senior Center is open Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. For a more extensive listing of programs and services, including lunch program menus as well as a newsletter, check hopkintonseniorcenter.com. Anyone with questions can call 508-497-9730. The Senior Center also has a Facebook page that provides updates on resources, programs and events.

SENIOR SNIPPETS

Schedule Update The Senior Center will be closed from noon on Tuesday, Dec. 24, through Wednesday, Jan. 1.

Transportation Programs for Seniors The Hopkinton Senior Center offers transportation to and from the Senior Center as well as local shopping Mondays through Fridays for Hopkinton residents. Anyone looking for transportation for medical appointments or essential shopping should call to learn about transportation options.

TED Talks Discussion Group Mondays, 12:30 p.m.

In 1984, TED Talks were created to bring technology, entertainment and design information to the curious and open-minded public. These videos cover a wide array of subjects and always lead to lively discussion and conversation. Casual TED Talks group meetings are held every Monday for one hour. Attendees — either in person or over Zoom — will view one of these videos and follow with a discussion. The program is free. Individuals should register by calling the Senior Center.

Let’s Run Away to the Circus Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2:30 p.m.

The Ringling Museum will lead this virtual presentation, providing a behindthe-scenes look at the early 20th century circus. This program will use historic photographs and other objects from the Circus Museum collection to illustrate stories of performers, managers, animals, spectators and everyone in between. Attendees will be invited to share their own circus memories as well.

Be Red Cross Ready: Emergency Preparedness Monday, Dec. 16, 1 p.m.

Floods, hurricanes and wildfires are becoming more frequent and can be devastating to loved ones, homes and communities. Participants in this program will build confidence by learning simple steps to take now to help prepare and protect one’s family. Hosted by the American Red Cross, Be Red Cross Ready is a national, standardized, free preparedness education curriculum for adults taught by certified presenters. The program is designed to help people understand, prepare for and respond appropriately to disasters.

Snowy Scapes and Celebrations: The Artist’s Holiday Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2:30 p.m.

Through the years, artists have created works both grand and intimate, religious and secular, in response to the “most wonderful time of the year.” This virtual presentation is an overview of the variety of ways artists have captured the magic of the season. It includes works by Grandma Moses, Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol.

Wishing you a happy Holiday Season and a wonderful New Year.

Please note our special holiday hours

Christmas Eve

New Year’s Eve

Tuesday, December 24th 8:30 AM to Noon

Tuesday, December 31st 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM

Christmas Day

New Year’s Day

Wednesday, December 25th Closed

Wednesday, January 1st Closed

Hours may be subject to change due to weather.

Visit CharlesRiverBank.com for up-to-date information.

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The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024 • 9

Center School reuse proposal gains momentum

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

A

proposal to transform the Center School into a community destination with town office space and classrooms for the Hopkinton Center for the Arts received kudos from the Select Board at its meeting Dec. 3 because taxes would not need to be raised.

Permanent Building chair SELECT BOARD DanCommittee McIntyre and ROUNDUP Community Preservation Committee chair Ken Weismantel appeared jointly before the board to ask for direction regarding their strategy to finance the project, which McIntyre presented at a previous meeting. The plan is to retain and rehabilitate the 1928 structure and demolish the two additions in the rear.

“The Center School is a key building in the downtown area,” said McIntyre, “not only for its iconic look but also for its location overlooking the Town Common. It’s been witness to countless events on the Town Common for over 100 years. And we feel that by preserving that building and bringing it back to life with people and activities, it can only serve to enhance the Town Common, and by extension the entire downtown.”

A new back entrance lobby and elevator were proposed to make the building accessible. There also would be a new parking lot and the potential for future expansion in the rear of the building.

Partnering with the HCA would allow the project to be eligible for grant funding and would alleviate some of the cost burden from the town, McIntyre added. Part of the project could be funded through Community Preservation Act monies. The Parks & Recreation Department and Youth & Family Services Department would be housed in the building, along with community meeting and activity space.

Weismantel explained that a request for $600,000 is before the CPC that would fund architectural plans and stabilization of the deteriorating building from its reserves. But the CPC was reluctant to approve that request without assurance from the Select Board that the $10 million project would move forward within the next couple of years. The Hopkinton Center for the Arts would

be responsible for raising $4 million in grants and donations.

Select Board members appeared enthusiastic about the proposal, especially because there would be no debt exclusion involved in financing the project.

The CPC was to consider the $600,000 request at its next meeting.

New assistant town manager welcomed

From our homes to yours, we wish you a wonderful holiday season!

Jim, Maureen, Gregg, Jen and Tristan

The Select Board unanimously approved Town Manager Elanie Lazarus’s recommendation to confirm Lance DelPriore as its new assistant town manager.

DelPriore’s name may be familiar to residents, as he previously was a candidate for the Town Manager position.

His most recent position was as the town engineer and assistant Department of Public Works director for Foxborough.

Members said his expertise would be welcomed, especially as the town considers connecting with the MWRA and working to resolve the PFAS issue in the water.

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Boston Marathon bibs awarded Due to the large number of requests, the Select Board decided to award one bib to each of the 41 nonprofits that applied. In addition, it voted to distribute five bibs to the Boston Marathon Committee, one to the Veterans Celebration Committee, one to the high school’s Business Professionals of America/ robotics program, and two to the Senior and Disabled Tax Relief Committee because of financial need.

Order approved to form new Trails Committee The board voted unanimously to approve an administrative order to create Keeping families families a new Trails Committee. It Keeping previously comfortably cozy in their comfortably cozy in their voted to disband the Trails Committee, homes year-round for over homesasyear-round for over also known the Trails Coordination 76 years! and Management Committee, along 76 years! with the Upper Charles Trail Committee.

Former members of both committees and new members were encouraged to apply for seats.

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10 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024

Consider these year-end financial moves A

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of Hopkinton

s we enter the holiday season, your life may well become busier. Still, you might want to take the time to consider some financial moves before we turn the calendar to 2025.

Here are a few suggestions: • Review your investment portfolio.

As you look at your portfolio, ask these questions: Has its performance met my expectations this year? Does it still reflect my goals, risk tolerance and time horizon? Do I need to rebalance? You might find that working with a financial professional can help you answer these and other questions you may have about your investments.

• Add to your 401(k) and HSA. If you can afford it, and your employer allows Mark Freeman it, consider putting more money into your 401(k) before the year ends — including Professional “catch-up” contributions if you’re 50 or older. You might also want to add to your Insights health savings account (HSA) by the taxfiling deadline in April.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT PROVIDED BY EDWARD JONES • Use your FSA dollars. Unlike an HSA, a flexible spending account (FSA) works on a “use-it-or-lose-it” basis, meaning you lose any unspent funds at the end of the year. So, if you still have funds left in your account, try to use them up in 2024. (Employers may grant a 2½ month extension, so check with your human resources area to see if this is the case where you work.)

• Contribute to a 529 plan. If you haven’t opened a 529 education savings plan for your children, think about doing so this year.

With a 529 plan, your earnings can grow tax deferred, and your withdrawals are federally tax free when used for qualified education expenses — tuition, fees, books and so on. And if you invest in your own state’s 529 plan, you might be able to deduct your contributions from your state income tax or receive a state tax credit.

• Build your emergency fund. It’s generally a good idea to keep up to six months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund, with the money held in a liquid, low-risk account. Without such a fund in place, you might be forced to dip into your retirement funds

Mark Freeman Edward Jones Financial Advisor 77 W. Main Street, Hopkinton, MA (508) 293-4017 Mark.Freeman@edwardjones.com

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Man guilty of negligence in Grove Street crash

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

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fter a two-day bench trial, a judge on Nov. 22 found Hopkinton resident Stephen Murphy guilty on a charge of negligent operation of a motor vehicle and two counts of leaving the scene of an accident that caused property damage.

On Jan. 4, Murphy was arrested following a motor vehicle crash that damaged houses at 75 and 77 Grove Street. Police charged him with the previous counts, along with operating under the influence of intoxicating liquor (second offense).

Proceedings on the second day of the trial, which was held at Framingham District Court, involved witness testimony, further reviews of evidence and closing statements.

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to pay for short-term needs, such as a major car or home repair.

• Review your estate plans. If you’ve experienced any changes in your family situation this year, such as marriage, remarriage or the birth of a child, you may want to update your estate-planning documents to reflect your new situation.

It’s also important to look at the beneficiary designations on your investment accounts, retirement plans, IRAs and insurance policies, as these designations can sometimes even supersede the instructions you’ve left in your will. And if you haven’t started estate planning, there’s no time like the present.

• Take your RMDs. If you’re 73 or older, you will likely need to take withdrawals — called required minimum distributions, or RMDs — from some of your retirement accounts, such as your traditional IRA. If you don’t take these withdrawals each year, you could be subject to penalties.

These aren’t the only moves you can make, but they may prove helpful not only for 2024 but in the years to come.

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Elizabeth Lee of the Middlesex District Attorney’s office put Hopkinton police officer Noah Buentello on the stand to give his testimony. Buentello was called to the Grove Street scene on Jan. 4 and filed the official accident report.

Buentello detailed tire marks that cut through 77 Grove Street and led to the house next door, which experienced “significant damage,” in his estimation.

During his cross-examination of Buentello, Charles McLean — Murphy’s lawyer — began to mount a defense that pointed to a medical event, not intoxication, as the cause for the accident.

He claimed there was a lack of necessary accident reconstruction data.

He also highlighted witness testimony that claimed Murphy was driving “just fine” before the incident.

“The weight of [a large vehicle] can cause damage even at low speed, correct?” McLean asked Buentello, who responded in the affirmative.

After the officer departed the witness stand, McLean provided Judge McGrath with video evidence of Murphy’s booking at the Hopkinton Police Department and an affidavit of a medical report.

In the medical report — which Lee objected to but the judge allowed — a doctor stated that Murphy was suffering a condition known as “cough syncope,” a condition where a patient loses consciousness following an episode of coughing.

McLean said that the affidavit showed treatment for Murphy’s condition began after the incident on Jan. 4.

In addition, McLean noted that his client told officer Nicholas Walker, Car accident | 11

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024 • 11

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who stopped Murphy moments after the crash, that he was chewing tobacco and might have swallowed it, causing him to pass out.

Both attorneys then gave their final statements to the judge.

In her closing remarks, Lee argued that Murphy knew he caused the property damage, and “had the presence of mind to reverse out of the house and drive away.”

She also pointed to testimony from Walker about Murphy’s alleged intoxication that was corroborated by other evidence the state provided.

“The defendant refused medical attention at the scene,” Lee added. “If he knew he had a medical incident, he would have waited for medical attention.”

“The first person [Murphy] spoke to said he didn’t know he was in an accident,” McLean offered up in his closing argument.

Other than officer Walker’s report of smelling alcohol on his client, there was no other proof of intoxication, McLean argued. He alleged, therefore, that the state had not met its burden of proof be- On Jan. 4, emergency personnel stood outside 75 Grove yond a reasonable Street, where a car driven by Stephen Murphy drove into a doubt. house.

Judge McGrath from Lee, McGrath sentenced Murphy agreed the state “had to 18 months probation for both counts not established as fact” that Murphy was of leaving the scene of property damage intoxicated. He found Murphy not guilty as well as the negligence charge. All on the OUI charge. sentences are to run concurrently.

Upon hearing recommendations

Murphy’s sentencing included the loss of his license for 60 days. However, McLean stated that both police and his client’s doctor had filed immediate threat suspensions to revoke Murphy’s license, so he was unlikely to get it back.

At the end of the trial, Lee read a victim impact statement from Ted Barker-Hook, who lives at 77 Grove Street.

In Barker-Hook’s statement, he detailed the damage to his home and the impact the incident had on he and his wife.

“The shock and fear have eroded, but things are far from normal,” the statement read.

The letter asked for strong sentencing, given Murphy was being charged with a second offense OUI and the incident occurred a quarter-mile from Hopkinton Middle School when kids were being let out for the day.

“We’re all very fortunate there was not a person in those yards,” Judge McGrath concluded.

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Minimum balance of $10 to open the account. Other restrictions may apply, inquire for details.

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12 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024

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Schools Town’s response to HHS swatting incident detailed Swatting | from page 1

initial response to the prank call reporting an active shooter.

“There are particular indicators with swatting calls that we knew,” said Bennett, noting that one was that no other calls were received about gunshots being fired. “This fit four or five areas that gave us an indication that it was a swatting incident right from the start.”

The first officer to respond already was on school grounds and reached the door in 44 seconds, Bennett added. The decision was made with school staff that students shelter in place. Common areas were checked first, followed by the bathrooms.

“There was no screaming,” said Bennett about the reasoning behind sheltering in place. “There were no gunshots. No chaos to be found.”

The incident was neutralized in 26 minutes, he continued, after which officers provided harm reduction counseling in the hallways to students. Bishop added that the high school has a crisis response team that assisted students and teachers who were “rattled” by the incident.

Said Bennett: “This is an ongoing issue that we’re facing across the country.”

Areas for improvement noted During the public comment period that preceded the discussion, parent Gayle Ober told the Select Board that her daughter’s class was outside when the swatting incident was reported “and were not notified as to what was going on.” She said the teacher used a key fob to reenter the building with her class.

“They walked into a SWAT team running around the building,” Ober stressed, “seeing men with guns and dark black boots, having no idea what was happening.”

She added that she did not believe there was any attempt by the HPD to see if students were outside during the incident.

HHS Principal Evan Bishop explained that he learned that the teacher’s walkie-talkie did not have the capacity to transmit across the campus. As a result,

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he has purchased new walkie-talkies with stronger capabilities and magnets that can lock classroom doors.

He added that instruction can continue during a shelter in place because no one is allowed in the hallways or to enter or exit the building. This is different from a lockdown, when students would huddle in the room’s corners to prevent being seen by a shooter.

School Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh explained that sheltering in place is a common strategy also used during medical emergencies.

“I know that people in their minds immediately think about lockdowns,” she said. “But lockdown is just one of the steps that belongs to ALICE.” ALICE is an acronym that stands for alert, lockdown, inform, counter and evacuate, the protocol that the schools and police use in potential shooter situations.

Cavanaugh said the steps do not have to occur in that order.

One thing Cavanaugh said she learned through this experience was that the middle school should be notified because of its close proximity to the high school. During a debriefing, a communication plan was formulated between the two schools.

Bishop’s key takeaway was that students in the larger areas like the library should be moved away from the large glass windows during a shelter in place, as some students were triggered by the police presence.

“It’s a very unfortunate situation,” he said. “But it was good for us in a lot of ways in [regard to] how we communicate.”

Bishop praised the coordination between school staff and the police and fire departments. He also talked about the use of special apps as communication tools during crises.

Bennett said HPD staff was debriefed twice after the swatting to discuss lessons learned, once immediately following it and again a week later.

Hopkinton Fire Chief Gary Daugherty said several firefighters already have received tactical combat and casualty training. He hopes to expand that training to the entire department next year and offer training to other town departments.

Member Shahidul Mannan asked if an outside consultant ever had been considered to assess Hopkinton’s emergency preparedness to “strengthen and give you the tools to be better.”

Bennett said he would be “very openminded” about working with a consultant, and Daugherty agreed. Cavanaugh noted that staff has been sent to consulting centers, but none has worked in the schools.

The police chief added that he hopes to implement incident command centers in various locations throughout the town. The key takeaway he had from the situation was the importance of all stakeholders learning about the others’ roles in a crisis.

Select Board members agreed that the conversation about this topic should continue at future meetings.

“I don’t think we want to ignore the situation, ignore the potential problem, ignore the society that we live in these days,” Herr concluded.

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024 • 13

Schools

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School Committee picks consultant for job search

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

A

t its meeting Dec. 5, the School Committee selected New England School Development Council as its consultant to help with the new superintendent search.

Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh is retiring in June 2025.

Chair Nancy Cavanaugh noted receipt of three “very comprehensive” proposals from New England School Development Council (NESDC), Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) and Hazard Young Attea Associates (HYA).

NESDEC’s cost of $16,600 exceeded MASC’s at $11,500 and HYA’s $14,000.

However, following discussion, the board decided to go with the consultants from the last two superintendent’s searches in 2011 and 2017. Both resulted in superintendents who lasted several years.

At first, committee members differed on timing regarding a decision on a search committee’s composition.

Nancy Cavanaugh said the last searches had 13-15 members, and it would not be feasible to increase that number. Two School Committee members provided representation on that board when Carol Cavanaugh was selected.

The chair was in favor of pinning down the search committee’s composition.

However, vice chair Jamie Wronka suggested letting NESDEC guide the School Committee through the entire process, including best practices for choosing search committee members.

Member Chris Masters said NESDEC had guided previous groups through the search process, and he is confident there will be “no shortage of strong candidates. … We need some guidance, and it will be money well spent.”

The chair outlined steps in a search including reviewing applications from community members who want to serve on the search committee, that committee reviewing applications from superintendent candidates, initial confidential interviews, a narrowing down of the field, recommendation for finalists presented to the School Committee, site visits to finalists’ schools/employment, community forums and the School Committee’s individual interviews with finalists before a final vote.

The process takes several months.

Adaptive playground moved to capital list In the event the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) does not approve partial or full funding for an adaptive playground, the School Committee voted to add the $1.2 million request to its list of fiscal year 2026 capital items.

Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Susan Rothermich said it is “unlikely” the CPC will fund the project. She said feedback suggested the perception that the request “is a school ask, not an Adaptive Playground Committee ask.” After considering several locations, Marathon School was chosen, which may impact that perception.

Wronka noted that this type of project “is not an inappropriate use of CPC funds” and had been accomplished in several other

communities.

While it is a legal use, Rothermich said, it is the CPC’s prerogative what projects to fund.

Members spoke about how strongly the Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) feels about having a playground in town that allows access for children with disabilities to play side by side with their “typical” peers.

“A lot of time and effort has been put into this [proposal],” member Susan Stephenson noted.

Rothermich said the School Committee must “be prepared with a Plan B” to move forward.

She explained that after adding the adaptive playground to its capital requests, the next step is to appear before the Capital Improvements Committee (CIC), which “signals one way or another” if it wants to recommend the item goes to a Town Meeting vote.

A funding source, either free cash or debt exclusion, also is identified.

“We present to CIC, but there is no guarantee it will be approved by them,” Rothermich said. “It could get stopped.”

Masters said the adaptive playground is for children with disabilities but “really is a town playground as well.” During nonschool hours and when school is out of session, families can make use of it.

He encouraged the School Committee to push the proposal forward, whether it gets partial or full funding from the CPC or instead moves over for the CIC’s consideration.

Nancy Cavanaugh agreed. “Advancing it forward means we really believe in this project,” she said.

Club stipends, trip approved In other business, the committee voted to reallocate $6,116 in the high school stipend account as well as fund an additional $1,112 for new clubs. Eleven clubs are no longer running. And some clubs are running without a stipend.

The vote means $556 will be paid to each club advisor, and the $1,112 is for two additions last year.

The clubs impacted are: badminton, Bollywood dance, car, chess, French, Jewish Student Union, Make-a-Wish, Muslim Student Association, philosophy, Spanish, UNICEF, yoga and Model UN (assistant advisor).

The board also approved a trip for Model United Nations Club members to Boston University from Feb. 7-9. Along with chaperones, the students will take the commuter rail to Back Bay Station for the conference and participate in offerings such as public speaking, parliamentary procedure, diplomacy, in-depth research and more.

Hopkinton High School Principal Evan Bishop explained that students are given a role and topic to debate, and previously they have won awards competing at the national and international levels.

“I think the skills they are learning are amazing,” committee member Kyla McSweeney said.

The next meeting will be held jointly with the Select Board on Dec. 19 concerning the superintendent’s FY 26 budget recommendation.

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14 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024

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Sports HHS cheer team savors state bid

508-620-6251 • SameDayOil.com DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES NOTICE OF FILING, REQUEST FOR COMMENTS, AND PUBLIC HEARING D.P.U. 24-184 December 2, 2024 Petition of the Town of Hopkinton for approval by the Department of Public Utilities of a municipal aggregation plan pursuant to G.L. c. 164, § 134. ______________________________________________________________ On November 7, 2024, the Town of Hopkinton (“Town”) filed a request with the Department of Public Utilities (“Department”) for approval of a municipal aggregation plan pursuant to G.L. c. 164, § 134. General Laws c. 164, § 134 authorizes a municipality to procure electric supply on behalf of consumers within its municipal borders through a municipal aggregation program (“Program”).

Eligible electricity consumers not already enrolled with a competitive electric supplier would be automatically enrolled in the Program unless they chose to optout, in which case they would continue to receive basic service provided by their electric distribution company, Eversource. The Department docketed this petition as D.P.U. 24-184.

The Town has retained MassPowerChoice to serve as its consultant in this proceeding and to assist in the implementation of the Program.

The Department will conduct a virtual public hearing to receive comments on the Town’s filing. The Department will conduct the hearing using Zoom videoconferencing on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, beginning at 2:00 p.m.

Attendees can join by entering the link, https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87178872065 from a computer, smartphone, or tablet. No prior software download is required.

For audio-only access to the hearings, attendees can dial in at (301) 715 8592 (not toll free) and then enter the Meeting ID# 871 7887 2065. If you anticipate providing comments via Zoom during the public hearing, to the extent possible, please send an email by the close of business (5:00 p.m.) on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, to timothy.m.federico@mass.gov with your name, email address, and mailing address.

Alternatively, any person who desires to comment on this matter may submit written comments to the Department no later than the close of business (5:00 p.m.) on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. Please note that in the interest of transparency any comments will be posted to our website as received and without redacting personal information, such as addresses, telephone numbers, or email addresses. As such, consider the extent of information you wish to share when submitting comments. The Department strongly encourages public comments to be submitted by email. If, however, a member of the public is unable to send written comments by email, a paper copy may be sent to Mark D. Marini, Secretary, Department of Public Utilities, One South Station, Boston, Massachusetts 02110.

All written comments or other documents should be submitted to the Department in PDF format by e-mail attachment to dpu.efiling@mass.gov and timothy.m.federico@mass.gov. In addition, all written comments should be emailed to counsel for the Town, Paul Gromer, Esq., at pgromer@gromerllc.com. The text of the e-mail must specify: (1) the docket number of the proceeding (D.P.U. 24-184); (2) the name of the person or company submitting the filing; and (3) a brief descriptive title of the document. All documents submitted in electronic format will be posted on the Department’s website as soon as practicable at http://www.mass.gov/dpu. The e-mail must also include the name, title, and telephone number of a person to contact in the event of questions about the filing. Importantly, all large files must be broken down into electronic files that do not exceed 20MB. The Town’s filing and all related documents submitted to or issued by the Department will be available at the Department’s website as soon as is practicable at https://eeaonline.eea.state.ma.us/DPU/Fileroom/dockets/bynumber (enter “24-184”). To request materials in accessible formats (Braille, large print, electronic files, audio format) for people with disabilities, contact the Department’s ADA coordinator at eeadiversity@mass.gov.

Any person desiring further information regarding the Town’s filing or a paper copy of the filing should contact Paul Gromer, Esq., at pgromer@gromerllc. com. For further information regarding this Notice, please contact Timothy Federico, Hearing Officer, Department of Public Utilities, at timothy.m.federico@mass.gov.

Members of the Hopkinton High School cheer team pose for a photo outside the state championships at Worcester State University on Nov. 24.

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

M

idway through Hopkinton cheerleading’s routine during the state competition on Nov. 24, coach Rachel DeMore started to tear up.

“I knew that they left everything on the mat,” DeMore said. “I started crying. It was embarrassing, but I was just so happy for them.”

Throughout the season DeMore, who cheered for the Hillers between 2011 and 2015, believed that her team could achieve this goal. For her athletes, however, getting to states was more of a dream than something they thought could be a reality.

“I believed in them this entire time, and I have been telling them that we could get to states,” DeMore said.

“They said, ‘It would be amazing if we get to states, but I don’t think we will.’

I said, ‘It’s possible, we could do it.’ ’’ The Hillers placed 12th at the state competition, held at Worcester State University, in their first appearance at the event since the fall of 2015.

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DeMore praised her assistant coach, Ally Link, along with senior captains Teagan Perry, Hailey Minka and Sara Hakansson for helping Hopkinton earn a coveted spot at the final event of the season.

“Our captains just poured their heart into this season,” DeMore said.

“They tried their best to motivate the team every step of the way and be positive on the rough days. If I ever didn’t have the right words to say to get everyone going, they did. They were so instrumental.”

DeMore is in her third year with the program and her first full year as the head coach. She said the program has been building to this point over the past couple of years.

“I think something clicked for them this year,” she said. “They started beginning to accomplish a higher skill level, and they had more difficulty in the routine.”

DeMore said she saw the fruits of her team’s hard work during the Tri-Valley League meet. That also is when the athletes started to believe in themselves.

“They said, ‘Wait a minute, can we do this?’ And I said, ‘You absolutely can,’ ’’ DeMore said. “They have so much determination and commitment and love for cheerleading. They were able to come together so amazingly this season to accomplish what felt like a lofty goal but was definitely within reach.”

About half of Hopkinton’s fall cheerleading squad will compete with the program this winter while others take part in dance, club cheer or other sports. The winter season is a bit of an unknown with the expected turnover in the roster, DeMore said, but she is hopeful that the team’s performance this fall has raised the bar for the program.

“I am hoping that moving forward, we have the confidence and the ability to feel like they can compete with the top teams,” DeMore said. “Because they absolutely can.”

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024 • 15

HHS Athlete Spotlight

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A third-year member of the program, Dellacioppa helped lead the Hillers to a 12th-place finish at the state competition last month. “Katie has always pushed through injury and illness, and even from the sidelines gives her all to the team,” coach Rachel DeMore shared. “She constantly cheers on and supports her teammates when/wherever she can, as well as having helped the town’s youth cheer and youth lacrosse programs by volunteering at youth practices and clinics for both sports.”

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Sanborn, who was named the state’s Outstanding Athletic Administrative Assistant by the Massachusetts Secondary Schools Athletic Directors Association in 2021, retired from Hopkinton High School last month. “Lou has been an invaluable member of the athletics staff and truly the face of athletics over the last decade,” athletic director Ricky Andrade shared. “Lou built relationships with so many people in the town and the schools and was — and will always be — a huge part of the Hopkinton community.”

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Hillers celebrate college commitments 2025 BALL BASEBALL & SOFT

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! Registration deadline is December 31st

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Among the Hopkinton High School students confirming their college commitments last month were (front row, from left), Nina Tzouganatos, Madison Recupero and Maya Weil-Meggison, and (back row, from left), Dylan Ruff, Nick Pedroli and Nate Burns.

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

H

opkinton High School on Nov. 22 hosted a signing day ceremony to celebrate seven student-athletes who plan to continue their careers at the NCAA Division 1 or 2 level.

The list of Hillers who will be competing at the next level includes athletes from five different sports.

Madison Recupero is committed to

play soccer at Princeton after a high school and club soccer career that has included All-America honors along with All-New England recognition and a host of other accolades.

Her teammate, Nina Tzouganatos, will play at Boston University. Described by her coach as the “quarterback of the team,” Tzouganatos has been a stellar holding midfielder for the Hillers.

Tzouganatos said she is looking for-

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Commitments | 16

HopkintonIndependent.com

16 • The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024

Hillers celebrate college commitments Commitments | from page 15

ward to developing her skills to be able to compete at the Division 1 level. She plans to study biology on a pre-med track at BU. “I love the school,” she said. “It has great academics, and the team is just great.

It was a perfect fit between school and soccer, and I couldn’t think of a better place to continue playing and going to school.”

Swimmer Maya Weil-Meggison is heading to Bentley University in Waltham.

A four-year varsity swimmer at HHS, Weil-Meggison has seven years of club swimming experience as well.

Assumption College’s lacrosse team will welcome Hopkinton senior Nate Burns. A two-sport standout who has been a member of the HHS football team as well, Burns is a mainstay in goal for the

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lacrosse team.

Burns said Assumption checked all the boxes for him, with a picturesque campus close to home, a strong lacrosse team and a business program.

“It had everything I was looking for,” he said.

The signing day was the culmination of not only the recruiting process but also the work he has put in on and off the field to have the chance to play at the next level.

“It was really special to be able to celebrate that moment with my family and the other committed student-athletes,” Burns said.

Baseball players Dylan Ruff and Nick Pedroli both signed their respective letters of intent. Ruff will attend Saint Anselm and has been extolled by his high school coaches as a star and an exceptionally athletic middle infielder. He led the team in runs batted in last spring and hit north of .400 on the season. Pedroli will play for Bentley.

During his junior season last spring, the center fielder hit .436 and only struck out three times in 64 plate appearances heading into the regular season’s final week.

Rounding out the group is softball standout Holly Paharik, who will play at Boston College. A two-time captain, Paharik achieved a rare feat last spring when she reached 100 hits for her career in her junior season.

“Hopkinton congratulates these student-athletes and looks forward to seeing their success at the collegiate level,” the school said in a statement.

More Hopkinton athletes will be announcing their college plans next spring.

The HHS Athletic Department is scheduled to hold a recognition day in April for student-athletes who will be playing at the Division 3 level.

Move guarantees that those who deserve coal this year will get it!

NORTH POLE — Santa Claus announced today that he has chosen Medway Oil & Propane as the exclusive resource for high-quality Reading Anthracite coal throughout the greater MetroWest region and eastern Worcester County.

By Jerry Spar Managing Editor

L

ike the rain that fell at Hopkinton High School’s David Hughes Stadium on Thanksgiving morning, the Ashland running game left Hopkinton feeling all wet. The Clockers pounded the ball up and down the field all game, scoring on every possession to take a 34-14 victory in the 100th meeting of the Thanksgiving Day rivals.

The Hillers (2-9) got off to a great start, taking the opening kickoff to their 44 and then marching 56 yards on eight plays — all runs, six of which came from quarterback Josh Buentello. His final carry was a 3-yard touchdown run.

Ashland (6-5) answered with a 62-yard drive to the end zone, capped by a 6-yard burst up the middle from running back Kevin Ozulumba.

Both teams failed on their PAT, leaving the score tied.

Hopkinton’s next possession started at its 35, but it went nowhere. On fourth down, the Hillers went to punt, but the punter fielded a low snap with his knee on the ground, giving the ball to Ashland at the 30 early in the second quarter.

The Clockers proceeded to run a series of tight-formation carries. On the fourth such play, from the 17, quarterback Devin O’Brien tried to go right up the middle.

Running into a wall of blockers, he switched to the outside and cruised into the left corner of the end zone. Ozulumba ran in the conversion for a 14-6 lead.

Hopkinton started its next drive on its 40. With Laurent Rivard now rotated in at QB, the Hillers went on the move. Key plays included long third-down passes to Buentello and Nick Pedroli and a 4-yard run on fourth-and-3 by Buentello to keep the drive alive.

On fourth-and-5 from 18, Buentello took a shotgun snap, ran right, then flipped it to Pedroli on a reverse. The speedy senior got a key block from Evan Fitzpatrick and then outran the defense to the left corner of the end zone. Fitzpatrick then caught the 2-point conversion pass from Buentello to tie the score at 14 late in the second quarter.

A solid return put the ball right at midfield for Ashland, and a 25-yard run by Cauan Amirault on the first play had the Clockers back in business. With 16 seconds remaining in the half, Ashland again went tight formation, and O’Brien was able to follow the pile in from the 1-yard line for the go-ahead score. Amirault ran in the conversion for a 22-14 lead.

Ashland started the second half with the ball at its 28 and again embarked on a methodical march down the field via the run. Amirault punched it in from the 1 with 3:29 left in the third quarter. The Hillers stopped the conversion to keep the score at 28-14.

With the momentum on Ashland’s side, Hopkinton started its next drive at its 43 and showed some grit. On third-and-7 from the 46, Buentello ran for 9 yards.

Then on third-and 10 from the Ashland 41, Buentello found Liam Grady for a 13yard pass. However, on fourth-and-12 from the 15, Aaron Butkus took a screen pass and came up a couple of yards short of a first down early in the fourth quarter.

From their 5, the Clockers again went to work on the ground, culminating with a 1-yard TD run by Nolan Soderberg and the 34-14 final score.

With its second straight T-Day win, Ashland now has 41 victories in the series.

Hopkinton has won 54 times. There have been five ties.

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Treblemakers Holiday Concert: Holiday Movie Magic Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 15 at 2 p.m.

Get ready to deck the halls and fa-la-la your way into the season’s spirit with the Treblemakers. This winter concert, “Holiday Movie Magic,” under the direction of Sharon Broadley-Martin, is a dazzling trip down memory lane where the cherished melodies of classic holiday movie musicals come alive once more.

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In a telephone interview this week, Santa Claus elaborated further on his decision.

“We know that Medway Oil & Propane has been offering high-quality Reading Anthracite coal to their customers since 1954,” said Santa. “It was natural for me to select the region’s best coal supplier to handle all of the MetroWest requests we get for a lump of coal.” Based on Santa’s happiness with Medway Oil & Propane, the “naughty and nice” will want to consider them for coal, fuel oil and propane service.

Hillers fall in 100th Thanksgiving game

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Homeowners who heat with coal are invited to receive a FREE bag of coal with any coal delivery before January 31, 2025.

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Santa hastily ended his press conference to return to his shop in preparation for visiting the MetroWest area later this month.

Merry Mixer Age 55 + Event Dec. 15 at 1 p.m.

Are you aged 55+? Join us at 1 p.m. before the concert for our Merry Mixer! Enjoy festive drinks, food, and music performed by the HCA’s own Jr. Treblemakers chorus, consisting of students in grades 3 to 5. Starting at 2 p.m., the concert, “Holiday Movie Magic,” will feature our local adult community chorus, the Treblemakers, with a special appearance by the younger chorus as well. This preconcert reception is free thanks to the sponsorship of Fallon Health.

The Nutcracker Ballet Dec. 21 at 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m Dec. 22 at 12:30 p.m.

Get ready to be transported to a magical world of wonder and delight this holiday season as HCA Dance presents The Nutcracker Ballet! Our talented cast of 35+ dancers, under the direction of our esteemed Dance Director Jessica Wilson, will bring Tchaikovsky’s iconic musical score to life in a truly unforgettable way.

The run-time of the performance is a family-friendly 90 minutes—perfect for littles one to enjoy! The Nutcracker will be performed in the Hopkinton High School Auditorium (90 Hayden Rowe Street, Hopkinton) New Year’s Eve Family Fun Event Dec. 31 | 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Gather your little ones and join for an exciting drop-in style event! The amazing DJ Mike will be spinning tunes and leading fun games for kids. But that’s not all! We’ll also have a balloon artist and face painters to add to the festivities. And don’t forget the highlight of the event - a 10-second countdown—to shout Happy New Year at 5:30 p.m.! This is a free event sponsored by Middlesex Savings Bank as part of HCA’s Children’s Series.

Your Arts Center | Tickets & Details at HopArtsCenter.org

HopkintonIndependent.com

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024 • 17

Obituaries Obituaries are submissions, typically from funeral homes, that are not subject to the same level of editorial oversight as the rest of the Hopkinton Independent. Obituaries may be edited for grammatical and factual mistakes and clarifications and shortened for space considerations.

John McInerney John T. McInerney, 86, of Hopkinton and formerly of Wellesley, passed away Nov. 4 at his home.

Born in Chicago, he was the son of the late John J. and Bernadette (Crowley) McInerney. He spent his early years living in Brazil with his family. He was a talented athlete, playing soccer, baseball and football, known for his fastball and educated toe. He also was an expert fisherman. He enjoyed mountain climbing, touring the national parks, and singing in glee clubs and choirs.

After moving back to the United States, he graduated from Boston College High School and entered the Redemptorist CSsR Seminary for five years before leaving to care for his dying father. He would later complete his bachelor’s in education from Boston College and become a teacher, beginning his career at the Martin Luther King school in Roxbury. He taught for many years and retired from the Ashland School System. He had an insatiable drive to help people and be a voice for the underserved. He was generous with his time and often was an anonymous advocate for his students. John also served his country in the U.S. National Guard during the Bay of Pigs and Cuban Missile Crisis, and in his community as a past member of the Hopkinton Senior Center Board of Directors.

Mr. McInerney is survived by two sisters, Marie McInerney D.Ed of Hopkinton and Sr. Jean McInerney IHM M.Ed of Monroe, Michigan.

John will be interred at a later date in his family’s lot in Woodlawn Cemetery in Wellesley.

Donations may be made in his memory to a charity of your choice to support the poor and most abandoned.

hard worker and excelled in his field.

David can only be described as “so funny” — he was sharp, outgoing and quick-witted, always riffing with his friends and feeding off each other. He was also deeply dedicated to his family and loved being a father. He greatly enjoyed seeing the world through his children’s eyes and loved nothing more than finding a new adventure for his family to experience together. David enjoyed traveling, fishing and boating — especially on Lake Maspenock in Hopkinton, and working around his yard — he took great pride in the state of his yard. He also loved spending time with his beloved golden retriever, Cooper. More than anything, David is remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father and a friend anyone would be lucky to have. A superstitious man like his grandfather “Nunzie,” David never left the house without giving everyone a kiss goodbye. He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

David is survived by his wife, Kolleen Seely of Mashpee; his children, Wyatt Seely and Logan Seely of Mashpee; his mother, Joan Cowan and husband Jack of Bluffton, South Carolina; his father, Dennis Seely and wife Diane of Uxbridge; his brother, Michael Seely and wife Vicky of Swansboro, North Carolina; his sister, Jennifer Tardelli and husband Dana of Atlanta; his mother-in-law, Kathleen Moulton of Hyannis; his father-in-law, James Moulton of Waco, Georgia; his sisters-in-law, Deborah Polselli and husband Tony of Marstons Mills, and

Kristin Bouchard and husband Norman of Marstons Mills; his brother-in-law, Jeff Moulton and wife Ellen of Leominster; as well as five nieces, four nephews and many other cousins, extended family members and dear friends.

A visitation was held Nov. 30 at Chapman Funerals and Cremations in Mashpee.

In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice, or to a personal favorite of David’s, The Goosey Fund (thegooseyfund.org).

Steven Uliss Steven Aaron Uliss, 61, passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 22.

Steve was a role model and hero to many. He was a kind, caring, dedicated and hardworking husband, father and friend who always put the needs of others ahead of his own.

Steve pioneered the advent of true Southern BBQ in the greater New England region, setting a level of excellence that was unsurpassed and that changed the palates of the thousands of people that dined with and alongside him. His love for food and hospitality began early on in his life through the influence of his

grandparents, which gave him the inspiration to continue his culinary journey for over 40 years.

Steve brought warmth and kindness to everyone he met. His passing will be mourned deeply by everyone who knew and loved him. Steve’s memory will remain in the hearts of his family, friends and all of those who were blessed to have the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on for generations to come, inspiring those around him with his kindness, generosity and unforgettable spirit.

Steve is survived by his soul mate, Amy, the love of his life, and his daughters, Carly and Rachel, who were his pride and joy. He is additionally survived by his devoted mother, Diane Uliss, as well as his loving sisters, Tracie Havanidis and Heidi Burrill. He also leaves behind his many wonderful aunts and uncles as well as his niece and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Leslie Uliss.

Services to honor the life of Steve were held Nov. 27 at the Stanetsky Memorial Chapel in Brookline. Burial was to be private.

A further celebration of Steve’s life was held Dec. 2 at Firefly’s BBQ in Marlborough.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Steve Uliss Culinary Scholarship, which will be created in honor of him to serve the students of his alma mater, Shawsheen Valley Technical High School.

At this time, donations may be made by check payable to Steve Uliss Culinary Scholarship and addressed to Amy Uliss, P.O. Box 130, Hopkinton, MA 01748.

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Police Log ARRESTS Editor’s note: The Hopkinton Independent’s new policy for the arrests section is not to include the names of individuals who have been arrested.

November 23

5:09 p.m. Sgt. Shannon Beloin came across what looked like a disabled motor vehicle. It was determined to be a one-vehicle crash, and the operator was unaware of what he hit. Officers Matthew LaTour and Cody Normandin responded to assist and await a tow. It appeared that the damage to the truck was from a telephone pole.

An officer from Upton responded to speak Portuguese to the driver, a 54-year-old Framingham resident who was arrested and charged with OUI liquor and marked lanes violation.

November 24

2:50 a.m. On Wood Street, Officers Cody Normandin, Kyle Quinzani and Tyler Staback arrested a 49-year-old resident of High Street in Holliston and issued charges of interfering with a police officer, witness intimidation, OUI liquor second offense, assault and battery on a police officer, refusal to identify self, resisting arrest, speeding in violation of special regulation and operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license.

November 25

4:51 p.m. On West Main Street, Officers Nicholas Saletnik and Matthew LaTour arrested a 48-year-old Framingham resident on a warrant.

Editor’s note: Due to space limitations, this is an abbreviated version of the Police Log. For the full Police Log visit the Hopkinton Independent website at HopkintonIndependent.com.

November 19

8:07 a.m. A motorist reported an erratic operator tailgating and speeding through the high school parking lot on Hayden Rowe Street. Officer Noah Buentello responded, spoke with the driver and advised him of the complaint.

11:22 a.m. Officer Brian Ziniti responded to a motor vehicle crash involving two cars in a South Street parking lot. No personal injuries were reported.

12:14 p.m. A caller reported fallen power lines on the side of the roadway on West Elm Street. Officer Brian Ziniti investigated and reported cable lines were detached from poles.

Verizon was notified.

12:40 p.m. A walk-in reported two landscapers plugged a

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microwave into an outside outlet on Cedar Street to heat up their lunch. When the caller told them they could not do that, they took their microwave and walked down the street. Officer Noah Buentello attempted to contact the owner of the landscaping company. A report was to follow.

1:06 p.m. A caller reported a dog broke its leash and attacked her dog on Ash Street. The animal control officer was notified.

2:57 p.m. Officers Matthew LaTour, Brian Ziniti, Justin Cappuccio and Noah Buentello responded to a motor vehicle accident on West Main Street involving two cars. A written warning was issued for failure to yield.

8:07 p.m. A motorist on West Main Street reported a deer possibly hit her car. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and took a report.

November 20

11:30 a.m. A caller on South Street reported an individual screaming and threatening him. The person took off and headed toward Milford. Sgt. William Burchard and Sgt. Matthew McNeil responded to the disturbance and spoke to the reporting person.

1:04 p.m. A caller reported two dogs running in the middle of the roadway of Ash Street. Officer Noah Buentello responded and reported one dog, known to police, was aggressive. The animal control officer was notified. The dogs returned to their home, and the animal control officer wrote a fine. Officer Buentello spoke with the dogs’ owner and the animal control officer.

2:59 p.m. A caller complained of high school drivers speeding at about 60 mph on West Elm Street. Officer Nicholas Saletnik spoke to the reporting person.

3:53 p.m. A caller reported her daughter backed into her friend’s unoccupied car on Hayden Rowe Street, and she would like a police report. Sgt. Arthur Schofield and Officer Justin Cappuccio responded and took a report.

5:43 p.m. A motorist reported she hit a deer on Elm Street.

Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and reported the deer took off into the woods, and there was minimal damage to the vehicle.

6:03 p.m. Officer Justin Cappuccio witnessed a John Deere tractor fall off a truck and trailer on West Main Street. The truck circled back to retrieve the tractor. No other damage to other vehicles was reported.

8:27 p.m. A caller reported a head-on collision involving two cars and airbag deployment on East Main Street. Sgt. Matthew McNeil, Sgt. Arthur Schofield, Officer Justin Cappuccio and Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded. A written warning was issued for failure to yield to the operator. A tow truck removed a vehicle. No personal injuries were reported.

November 21

9:49 a.m. Sgt. Arthur Schofield and Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded to a motor vehicle accident on East Main Street. Two tow trucks removed the vehicles. A report was taken.

3:44 p.m. A walk-in reported her son was assaulted in

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4:16 p.m. A caller reported a mattress was illegally dumped in his driveway, and he wanted it logged.

November 22

12:18 a.m. A female caller on West Main Street asked for a ride to a hotel for the night in order to escape a domestic violence situation. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded and provided courtesy transport.

7:00 a.m. Officer Nicholas Walker assisted the Fire Department on Pond Street, where a tree fell and took wires down from a house. Utility companies were contacted.

9:05 a.m. Officers Benjamin Vaz and Nicholas Saletnik responded to Clinton Street, where a medium-sized tree was hitting wires. Eversource was contacted.

3:36 p.m. A caller on Grove Street reported that a male juvenile was yelling obscenities and driving erratically. Officer Justin Cappuccio responded and spoke to an individual who said her son was driving the vehicle, and she would advise him of the complaint.

8:58 p.m. A Connelly Hill Road homeowner reported two males banging on her door, and she did not know who they were nor was she expecting anyone. She said she saw a truck nearby that they could have been driving. Officers Justin Cappuccio and Kyle Quinzani responded and learned that the individuals were painters who were doing work at the house. There was miscommunication regarding when they were supposed to be there.

November 23

4:21 p.m. A caller on Wilson Street reported a good-sized tree fell in the roadway.

Officer Matthew LaTour responded and move the tree to the side of the road. A message was left with the DPW. 7:36 p.m. A caller on West Main Street reported they were scammed for a large amount of money. Officer Cody Normandin responded and took a report.

November 24

2:11 p.m. A caller stated he was driving on West Main Street and heard a loud thud.

He stopped by Price Chopper and found a large dent. The call was logged.

2:30 p.m. A walk-in stated that there may be an abandoned vehicle on Marshall Avenue. Sgt. William Burchard called the owner of the van and spoke with a woman who said she would call her husband to see why the vehicle was there with no plate.

5:30 p.m. A caller on Benson Road stated she was in her car, and her father refused to take her to the Police Station to discuss an ongoing issue. She was not in harm’s way at the moment but wanted a restraining order against a party out of Milford. Officer Matthew LaTour spoke with the caller and her father. A report was to follow.

11:07 p.m. A caller stated he got a voicemail with children crying. He was advised it most likely was a scam. He was to call back if it continued.

November 25

6:56 a.m. Officer Noah Buentello responded to a motor vehicle accident on West Main Street and took a report.

9:42 p.m. A caller reported a person was harassing his daughter and he wanted a restraining order. Officer Justin Cappuccio assisted and took a report.

November 26

3:23 p.m. Sgt. Cody Normandin and

The Hopkinton Independent • December 11, 2024 • 19

11:53 a.m. Sgt. Matthew McNeil and Officer Nicholas Walker responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two cars on Pleasant Street and took a report.

1:05 p.m. A Woodview Way caller reported two brothers got off the school bus but were not home. Sgt. Matthew McNeil and Officer Brian Ziniti responded and received a call back that the boys were found safe in the reception area of the condominium.

2:22 p.m. Officer Brian Ziniti responded along with the Fire Department to a report of a large bonfire on North Street.

2:34 p.m. Multiple callers reported a fallen wire in the roadway on Pleasant Street. Officer Nicholas Walker responded, moved the wire off the roadway and notified Verizon.

5:31 p.m. A Victory Lane caller reported his vehicle was hit earlier in the day. Officer Brian Ziniti responded and took a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident report.

6:06 p.m. An Ash Street caller reported her neighbor was illegally burning a fire. Officer Augusto Diaz responded along with the Fire Department.

6:44 p.m. Two callers reported a car rollover on West Main Street involving personal injury. Sgt. Matthew McNeil and Officer Brian Ziniti responded along with the Fire Department. One person was issued a citation. A tow truck removed the vehicle.

10:10 p.m. A caller reported a dispute with a neighbor because the neighbor’s dog used his property as a bathroom. Sgt. Matthew McNeil and Officer Augusto Diaz assisted.

November 28

9:01 a.m. A caller reported an owl was stuck in a soccer net on Mount Auburn Street. Officers Augusto Diaz, Brian Ziniti and Nicholas Walker responded and freed the bird, and it went on its way.

11:43 p.m. A motorist reported his vehicle had tire issues on West Main Street and he was going to park it overnight at Angel’s Garden Center. The incident was logged.

November 29

1:13 a.m. Officer Kyle Quinzani checked on a vehicle by the dog park on Pratt Way and spoke with the owner, who was taking his dog out for a late night stroll.

10:08 a.m. A caller reported a suspicious female on Ash Street in a silver Honda Civic pulling in every driveway and yelling at a male walking down the street. Sgt. William Burchard and Officer Noah Buentello responded and checked the area with a negative find.

12:27 p.m. A caller reported two vehicles were racing each other in the rear of the high school on Hayden Rowe Street.

Sgt. William Burchard and Officer Noah Buentello responded, and the vehicles were gone upon their arrival.

1:08 p.m. A walk-in reported he sold an item to someone, and that person took

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the money back. Officer Nicholas Walker assisted and took a report of fraud.

1:27 p.m. Sgt. William Burchard responded to a parking complaint on West Elm Street and spoke to a person who was to make an announcement so that the violation would not happen in the future.

1:34 p.m. A caller reported that while her daughter was out walking their dog on Hayden Rowe Street, their dog was bitten by an off-leash dog. The male owner took off with his dog. Officer Noah Buentello responded and took a report. The daughter was unable to identify the dog owner.

3:30 p.m. A Saddle Hill Road resident reported a fire in her backyard. Officer Matthew LaTour assisted the Fire Department in responding.

4:22 p.m. A Wood Street caller reported someone dumped items in her yard including a credit card. Officer Matthew LaTour responded and picked up the credit card.

8:27 p.m. Security personnel at an East Street business reported a male being confrontational because security would not allow him to charge his car on the property. Officers Justin Cappuccio and Matthew LaTour responded, and the reporting person requested the male not come back to his property. A report was taken.

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Officers Justin Cappuccio, Benjamin Vaz and Nicholas Saletnik responded to a motor vehicle accident on Hayden Rowe Street. No personal injuries were reported.

3:44 p.m. A Spruce Street caller reported hearing a gunshot. Officer Justin Cappuccio responded and checked the area.

4:27 p.m. Officer Justin Cappuccio took a report of harassment on Main Street.

9:42 p.m. A motorist reported icy road conditions on Cedar Street near the town line. Sgt. Cody Normandin reported icy spots in other areas as well and notified the DPW.

November 30

6:34 a.m. A caller reported trespassing and illegal hunting on Macadam Road.

Sgt. Cody Normandin responded and located an unoccupied vehicle. No one was in the area.

7:54 a.m. A caller reported her exboyfriend took her vehicle without permission, and the vehicle was in Hopkinton. During the phone call, the caller reported her ex-boyfriend took the vehicle on Interstate 495 and left town. Sgt. Gregg DeBoer advised the caller to report the incident to her local police so they can enter the vehicle as stolen, as the vehicle no longer was in Hopkinton.

9:41 a.m. A caller reported a dog with no tags was alone at the dog park on Pratt Way. Sgt. Gregg DeBoer checked on the dog and investigated.

4:06 p.m. Officer Matthew LaTour reported a swan was in the middle of Interstate 495. A motorist was trying to assist.

The State Police were notified and sent a trooper. Officer LaTour and the trooper were able to corral the swan and move it off the highway.

5:14 p.m. A Davis Road resident reported her sixth grade daughter was being harassed via her phone and iPad. She did not want to speak with an officer but planned to talk to school personnel first.

The school resource officer was notified, and the incident was logged.

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December 1

9:11 a.m. A caller reported a suspicious man in the backyard of an unoccupied building on West Main Street. Sgt. William Burchard responded, checked the area and found the building secure.

1:29 p.m. A caller reported she found a lost dog running around on Spring Street. A message was left for the animal control officer.

December 2

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10:31 p.m. A Grove Street resident reported an unwanted male at her door.

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Celebrating 50 years as an independently-owned family business!

140 Turnpike Rd, Westborough Route 9 at Lyman St. 508-366-1942 | juliosliquors.com OPEN 7 DAYS M-Sat 9 am - 9 pm, Sun 10 am - 7 pm

So much more than a liquor store.

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