HI LAYOUT 10.1.25_WEB by Community Advocate

DISC DRIVE

Plaque for enslaved residents gets support

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Select Board on Sept. 23 reviewed a request by the Hopkinton Historical Society to commemorate the history and contributions of people enslaved in Hopkinton with a plaque on the Town Common. It stirred discussions about accuracy, the request for Select Board input and the criteria by which memorial requests are reviewed.

While the request originated with the Hopkinton Historical Society, the Parks & Recreation Commission has purview over what memorials will be placed on land under its jurisdiction. Society members appeared before the commission last September as well as in March. The Parks & Recreation Commission sought input from the Select Board because of the sensitive nature of this period in the town’s history.

The proposed bronze plaque would feature the names

Video crew’s Town Hall trip sparks alarm

By Nick Schofield Contributing Writer

The release of a video by “First Amendment auditors” taken at Town Hall on Sept. 12 has town officials working to train staff on improving engagement with members of the public.

The video, uploaded Sept. 15 to YouTube, shows public health nurse Simone Carter pulling a fire alarm in Town Hall following a confrontation with one of the auditors. It goes on to show the police and fire response to the alarm pull, along with a sit-down with Town Manager Elaine Lazarus in which one of the auditors files a complaint.

“When someone pulls a fire alarm, it’s a crime for a reason, and it should be treated as such,” said Josh Abrams, creator of the YouTube channel Accountability for All, where the video “SHE PULLED THE FIRE ALARM TO STOP US FROM RECORDING! LAWSUIT!” was uploaded.

The Historical Society shared this design for a plaque to honor enslaved residents.

Cameron Rosendale catches a Frisbee thrown by his father at the Town Common during a sunny fall Sunday on Sept. 21.

Hopkinton independent

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STAFF

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Political rhetoric must be curtailed

How do we move forward as a community? Last week, our nation suffered a blow to one of our most sacred freedoms: Freedom of Speech. A freedom not only safeguarded against government suppression by our First Amendment, but the keystone of our ability to self-govern “We the People.” This applies to all “We the People,” even those who we vehemently disagree with!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The assassination of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk struck a blow at the heart of this sacred freedom. Charlie was exercising this right on a college campus, as he did hundreds of times, engaging students, encouraging civic involvement, challenging campus norms and vigorously debating various topics when he was assassinated. He was working to get young people more involved in developing and sharing their faith, values and beliefs. Because of that, he was killed. That shot was a shot at all of us. If you voice a differing opinion, you are at risk of personal injury, even death. While there is one person responsible for pulling the trigger, we all must step back and evaluate what role we play in the rise of political violence in our country. It may be in arguments at the kitchen table, discussions at political meetings, posts on social media, signs we hold, how our government representatives work with or against each other. The inflammatory rhetoric is at least partially to blame for where we are as a society, and we all have a responsibility to address it.

As chair of the Hopkinton Republican Town Committee, I will be taking the following actions: I have reached out to Amy Groves, chair of the Hopkinton Democratic Town Committee, and state Rep. James Arena-DeRosa. The intent is to create a bridge to our political counterparts to create a better relationship amongst our organizations. We will not agree on several issues, but I am sure there are areas where we do agree, and at a minimum, we will be more connected in our humanity.

For those who have been affected by last week’s events, especially our young conservatives, please reach out to the HRTC for support. We are on social media, or join our next meeting at 9:30 on Oct. 4 at the Hopkinton Library.

I hope and pray that “We the People” can work toward reducing the extreme rhetoric that has further divided our country and reduce the unconscionable acts that have plagued our country.

— Jim Mirabile, Hopkinton Republican Town Committee chair

Keep public discourse civil

Let me express my appreciation for [Hopkinton Republican Town Committee chair] Jim Mirabile’s suggestion that those of us from different political perspectives meet to foster positive dialogue and mutual respect. As Hopkinton residents know, I am always happy to meet and engage in productive conversations with residents where they share their views, regardless of their party enrollment or issue. I let Jim know that I am happy to meet for coffee with a bipartisan group of residents, or even with his committee.

There is no place for violence in the American public square. In a free and open society that values free speech and the rule of law, everyone should voice their opinion without an ugly descent to violence. Violence against anyone — regardless of their opinions — should not be tolerated by any political party in America. The tragic and senseless killing of a young conservative in Utah and the tragic and senseless killing of a progressive speaker of the Minnesota House are attacks on our democracy and American values.

While I embrace local dialogue, I would however be remiss in not reflecting on how we got here — and conservatives should examine that as well. Leadership starts at the top and sets a tone for the country. It does not serve the country to have bullying, threats, derogatory references and name-calling coming out of the oval office.

I proudly served Republican President George W. Bush’s administration at Peace Corps for seven-plus years. I didn’t agree with some policies, but George Bush modeled exemplary behavior as president and reminded us in 2017 that leadership comes from the top and that “bullying and prejudice in our public life sets a national tone and provides permission for cruelty, bigotry and hate.”

So yes, absolutely, let’s meet locally and see what we can do to keep our political discourse civil. Support your issues and values and enthusiastically promote your party, but do so with respect and dignity for all.

‘A SLICE OF HOPKINTON’

Hopkinton Independent Photo Contest

This issue’s winner is Veena Guni for this photo of a robin giving an alarm call to protect its nest. To enter next issue’s contest, email your photo (put “Photo Contest” in the subject line) along with your name, phone number and description of the photo to editor@hopkintonindependent.com. Photos with people or pets in them are encouraged. Photos that are not selected as winners might be posted on our website.

The Hopkinton Independent presents “A Slice of Hopkinton” photo contest, sponsored by BoMain. Readers are encouraged to submit photos of people, places or things in Hopkinton. The Independent staff will select one winner for each issue. The winner will have their submitted photo published in the paper and will receive a $25 gift certificate to BoMain. All photos must be submitted by individuals 16 and over. The photo must be high resolution, and not submitted for use by any other media outlet. Winners will pick up their gift certificate at BoMain.

understood the value of a top team after working with the three of you! Thank you for your effort and time in selling our

— Hopkinton Seller, Summer 2025

Joseph

Perhaps we can even model behavior for our national leaders! I call on national Democratic leaders to be mindful in this tense climate to refrain from caustic commentary. I ask local Republicans to do the same with their leaders, especially as Republicans control all three branches of the federal government and set the current framework, tenor and tone of our national debate.

— State Rep. James Arena-DeRosa

Editor’s note: The opinions and comments expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Independent. Submissions should be no more than 400 words and must include the writer’s name and contact information for verification. Letters should be relevant and not primarily for the purpose of promoting an organization or event. Letters may be edited by the Independent staff for space, errors or clarification, and the Independent offers no guarantee that every letter will be published. For a schedule of deadlines for letters and other submissions, check the Hopkinton Independent website (HopkintonIndependent. com) and click on the Contact header, then on Editorial Deadlines.

Presents

CHRISTINE’S NAILS

Cemetery expansion under consideration

Agrowing need for cemetery plots in town has led to the release of conceptual plans for an expansion of Mt. Auburn Cemetery.

“It’s purely a concept,” said Department of Public Works Director Kerry Reed. “We haven’t had public meetings about it [yet].”

The DPW and the Cemetery Commission have worked on a plan for expanding the cemetery on Mayhew Street after the town obtained additional property nearby. The Davis Property, as Reed called it, sits south of the cemetery and was purchased in 2019.

State law dictates that every town in the commonwealth is required to have a townowned cemetery or other burial place for residents, Reed explained. “What we’re seeing now for sales and usage, we anticipate [the cemetery] will be sold out of lots in maybe 5-10 years,” she said.

In the conceptual plan, Mt. Auburn will expand to 1,240 full body lots, with potential cremation lots available as well. The road through the cemetery would be widened, and ornamental features would be added. Reed noted the Cemetery Commission also expressed interest in improving the cemetery’s entrance to enhance the pedestrian experience.

“It’s a really lovely sight in town,” Reed said of the cemetery. “People like walking in it because it’s a nice place.”

Reed stressed that the conceptual plan is not set in stone, and much more design work and planning are needed before expansion begins. She added that the Cemetery Commission and the DPW are embarking on developing the plan now because of the time and investment an expansion project will take.

“It’s going to be a big investment to get this land ready,” Reed said. She anticipated going in front of a future Town Meeting to obtain funding.

Woman found dead in home

A woman found deceased in her Cedar Street home Sept. 11 apparently died by suicide, according to the town’s deputy police chief.

In an email to the Independent, Hopkinton Deputy Police Chief Scott van Raalten confirmed that a woman residing on Cedar Street appeared to have taken her own life in her home.

“Early [Thursday] evening, officers responded to Cedar Street for a possible suicide,” the deputy police chief explained. “Detectives and State Police also responded to investigate after it was determined that the female party was deceased. At this time, there is nothing to indicate that this was a suspicious death or that any foul play was involved.”

He added that no further information about the incident was available.

Principal planner introduced

In a short meeting Sept. 22, John Gelcich, the town’s Director of Land Use, Planning and Permitting, announced to the Planning Board that the person succeeding him as principal planner had been hired.

Aneri Patel, who was to start Sept. 29, previously worked as the land use coordinator for the town of Wayland, Gelcich said. Both towns have similar structures, he noted. Patel also has been the permitting coordinator for the department and “has familiarity with the whole Land Use world.”

Gelcich will attend the next Planning Board meeting on Oct. 6 with Patel “to help ease that transition,” he added, noting that he had been promoted to the director’s role in February.

“I think she’ll fit in well,” he added. “I think she’ll do a good job. She seems very capable and competent, and we’re excited to have her join.”

Rally organizer pleads guilty

Monica Cannon-Grant, the high-profile Boston activist known to Hopkinton residents for organizing a controversial rally following the death of local teenager Mikayla Miller, pled guilty in federal court Sept. 22 to 18 charges related to the diversion of money targeted for her non-profit to her personal use.

Cannon-Grant, 44, and her husband, Clark Grant, had been charged with spending funds donated to Violence in Boston on travel, hotels, dining, personal care and more. The 2022 indictment also charged the couple with defrauding the state by accepting unemployment assistance and making false statements to a mortgage lender.

They later were accused of obtaining and misusing pandemic assistance funds, lying about their income to obtain rent relief money and filing false tax returns.

“Monica Cannon-Grant repeatedly scammed multiple public financial programs and stole money donated by members of the public who believed their donations would aid in reducing violence and promote social awareness,” U.S. Attorney Leah Foley shared in a statement. “Instead, Cannon-Grant used donations to satisfy her own greed, while falsely portraying herself as a legitimate nonprofit organizer. She betrayed the trust of everyone who donated and the public who supported her fraudulent charity. Today’s plea demonstrates once again that no one is above the rule of law.”

Cannon-Grant is to be sentenced Jan. 29. Her husband died in a motorcycle crash in 2023.

Mikayla Miller’s body was found in the woods off West Main Street on the morning of April 18, 2021. The state medical examiner determined the 16-year-old, who was Black and part of the LGBTQ community, had taken her own life. However, Miller’s mother, Calvina Strothers, questioned the handling and outcome of the investigation, noting Miller had been in an altercation the night before with a former girlfriend and others. Cannon-Grant claimed Miller was “murdered” and organized a rally that drew hundreds of people — many from out of town — to the Town Common on May 6, 2021. Cannon-Grant then raised funds to cover an independent autopsy for Miller, although those results were never released or discussed publicly, and the protests eventually faded.

Library to open CreatorSpace

The Hopkinton Public Library is set to open a “CreatorSpace” that will provide space and equipment for youth and adults to explore crafting. According to a new page on the HPL website, the CreatorSpace is designed for adults and youth ages 10 and up. A few of the crafts available in the space include sewing, wood burning, paper quilling and more.

Patrons interested in using the space will need

Mt. Auburn Cemetery on Mayhew Street might be in line for an expansion and a redesign in the coming years.

Plans reviewed for proposed Lumber Street office building

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Conservation Commission on Sept. 23 voted unanimously to continue the hearing on a proposed commercial office building off Lumber Street until Oct. 7 after reviewing plan changes and proposed new language.

REC Hopkinton proposed a onestory office and retail building off Lumber Street. The 3.46-acre site is fully vegetated and undeveloped. It is bordered by apartments to the northeast, Lumber Street to the west and Independence Place to the north.

Consultant Tom Schutz represented the applicant. He explained that several modifications to the site plan were made since the notice of intent (NOI) application last came before the commission in August. They included changing eight flags to update the wetland delineation and the addition of a wetland line across Lumber Street. This put the project and a sidewalk extension into the buffer zone.

As a result, the building was moved outside of the no-build zone, he said. It will remain 2,400 square feet. The access drive was slightly widened to allow for trash pickup access. Cedar posts with placards will be placed around the limit of work area. About 7,200 square feet of work will be in the no-build zone to accommodate the stormwater infiltration system.

The tree clearing plan showed that 57 trees will be removed, but none within the bordering vegetative wetland. Mitigation will include the planting of red maple, spruce, service berry and creeping juniper trees that are native to the area. An invasive species management plan was submitted.

Peer review consultant Bob Sykes from Pare Corporation went over issues he believed required additional action. One concern was a perimeter infiltration trench around the site.

Site engineer John Federico responded that “infiltration trench” was somewhat of a misnomer. He said the area will be grassed and ultimately “restored to some type of woods.”

Said Federico: “This trench is primarily just there to help attenuate some of that water, slow it down a bit.

“We’re not sure if ‘infiltration trench’ is going to be the most appropriate term there,” he continued, saying it was better characterized as a “subsurface trench.” He added that he will make language modifications to the plans.

Sykes noted that a special permit is required for the project being located

Library to open CreatorSpace

to sign up for a free membership card. Regular workshops and drop-in craft hours will be offered.

Danielle Wolber, HPL’s reference and technology supervisor, explained that getting the CreatorSpace up and running has been a multi-year effort. “When I started at this library over six years ago, I was told that the classroom in the lower level was designed to be able to become a CreatorSpace, and I was so excited by that prospect,” she stated via email. “Six years later, we’ve gotten the funding, ordered the equip-

within the water resources protection overlay district. Also, more than 2,500 square feet of impervious area for the parking lot was proposed.

Federico said the project will go before the Planning Board now that most commission comments have been addressed.

COC withheld for tennis court

The commission declined to issue a certificate of compliance (COC) for a tennis court built at 42 Greenwood Road because the required shrubs were not planted on the property as specified in the remediation plan.

No vote was taken, but conservation administrator Judy Day said she would reach out to the applicant to clear up an apparent misunderstanding about what should be done to replicate the cleared area.

In May 2023, the commission approved the building of the tennis court in a 6-0 vote. The home court was proposed so that tennis player Parnaz Kaur, then a sixth grader at Hopkinton Middle School, would have a space behind her home to perfect her game. It is in the buffer zone bordering vegetated wetlands.

“The approved plans included 135 shrub plantings in this area between the wetlands and the tennis court,” Day said.

Day cited a memo from wetlands consultant Joe Orzel. In it, the applicant stated that Day’s predecessor, Kim Ciaramicoli, “gave permission” to the applicant to use a seed mix instead of the shrubs. There was no written documentation on file to show that a conversation had taken place between the applicant and Ciaramicoli.

Chair Melissa Recos said the shrubs needed to be planted so the commission could issue the COC.

Day said she would clarify this with the applicant, as well as a previous easement agreement with the Hopkinton Area Land Trust.

Hearings continued

Before the meeting started, Recos noted the continuation of several scheduled hearings. The main one was for the proposed parking lot expansion at the UniBank/Starbucks plaza, located at 85-89 West Main Street.

Also continued was the Trails Committee hearing regarding the continuation of a trail at Chamberlain Street and Loop Road.

ment and materials, and we’re finally opening it to the public.”

While the HPL had some crafting items already, much of the financial support to get the space up and running came from the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation. According to Wolber, the foundation provided $10,000 to update some furniture and purchase equipment and supplies. It also gave an additional $2,000 to hire professional artists and craftspeople to come in for events.

“We would not have been able to even dream of opening the CreatorSpace without their funding!” Wolber stated.

The HPL will host a grand opening for the CreatorSpace on Sunday, Oct. 5, from 1-3 p.m.

WITH YOUR HOME FALL

in love

WITH YOUR HOME FALL

HOPKINTON, WOONSOCKET, in love

HOPKINTON, MASSACHUSETTS WOONSOCKET, RHODE ISLAND in love

HOPKINTON, MASSACHUSETTS WOONSOCKET, RHODE ISLAND

HOPKINTON, MASSACHUSETTS WOONSOCKET, RHODE ISLAND in love

Video crew’s visit to Town Hall leads to confrontation

Abrams alleges that Carter committed two offenses when he and another auditor showed up to record at Town Hall. First, Carter pulled the fire alarm under false pretenses.

“No argument could be made it was an accidental pull,” Abrams said. “She confirmed that she pulled it.”

At around the 15-minute mark of the video, Carter — after attempting to get Abrams to leave her office and apparently making a phone call to the police for assistance — approaches a fire alarm near the exit doors of the Town Hall basement and activates it. When the auditor asks if she pulled the alarm, Carter nods her head.

According to Massachusetts General Law, someone who “without reasonable cause” makes or circulates a false fire alarm shall be charged a fine of up to $500 or face a year in prison.

The auditor’s concern over the fire alarm pull extends to the police response afterward. HPD Sgt. Bill Burchard was the first to respond to the scene and spoke with Carter directly. He then spoke with Abrams, who inquired about the legality of pulling the fire alarm.

“It’s an ongoing investigation,” Sgt. Burchard stated in response.

When Abrams said he had footage of the incident to show the officer, Burchard replied: “No, I’m good.”

Abrams alleged that the HPD classified Carter’s actions as “an accidental pull” according to radio broadcasts he obtained. “They tried to cover it [up],” he claimed.

Carter’s second offense, according to Abrams, is an alleged attempt to stifle his First Amendment rights. He claimed that by pulling the fire alarm, Carter tried to restrict his rights to record in a public building.

Audits, accountability, aftermath

The video from the audit has been viewed more than 67,000 times since it was uploaded. Hundreds of comments have been left on the

— First Amendment auditor Josh Abrams

HPD’s Facebook page decrying the incident and calling for action. Many of the commenters are not Hopkinton residents.

“What I want to see — and I think everyone wants to see — is accountability for the government,” Abrams explained.

That accountability underpins his YouTube channel, which has over 247,000 subscribers. He and other auditors enter public buildings across the country and record in public spaces.

“If we do encounter resistance … we try to provide education to let [municipal employees] know that’s the case,” Abrams said.

First Amendment audits involve individuals filming and/or photographing in public spaces to test their right to do so. While those in favor of these audits argue they promote transparency and ethical behavior, opponents question the often confrontational nature of the videos.

Abrams asserted that Carter knew what she was doing and that police officers afforded her privilege for being a town employee. That same privilege, he argued, would not be extended to citizens.

“If she meant to pull [the fire alarm] … she should be charged as everyone else,” he said. “She shouldn’t be given extra privileges.”

Added Abrams: “If someone can pull the fire alarm purposely … then I should be able to pull the alarm and not expect to go to jail.”

Carter did not provide a reason for her actions to the auditor directly. In the video, she can be heard on her phone call to the HPD saying: “I have

KELLY’S FARM

someone here who is taping me, and I have private medical information that cannot be shared.”

Regardless of Carter’s reasoning, Abrams said he wants action from the town. “I think she should be terminated and charged, to say the least,” he said. He noted that his lawyer is compiling a lawsuit for prior restraint because Carter allegedly infringed on his First Amendment rights. Abrams also claimed that he made an offer to the town that he would drop the suit if the town fired Carter.

The experience in Town Hall was not all bad, Abrams admitted. In the video, he commended the good attitudes of Hopkinton’s municipal employees and Town Manager Elaine Lazarus for taking responsibility for the issue.

Town opens personnel matter

Lazarus told the Independent in a brief phone call that the town is “committed to transparency and respecting the public’s right to access public spaces.” Despite the incident, she affirmed that the public is welcome to visit Town Hall regardless of whether they’re filming or not.

“We encourage residents to come in, ask questions and engage with us,” she said.

In response to what happened, Lazarus explained that the town is implementing measures to ensure similar issues do not occur in the future. Among those measures is additional training to prepare municipal employees for these types of interactions.

“We recognize these situations can feel stressful for staff,” said Lazarus. The training will help “ensure employees are prepared to respond appropriately while we’re maintaining both public access and safety.”

Regarding Carter’s employment status, Lazarus declined to comment, stating the town does not comment on active personnel matters. Health Director Shaun McAuliffe declined to comment as well.

The Independent reached out to the HPD for further clarification on any investigation or charges relating to the incident but did not receive a response.

Auditor has had issues

According to reporting from Boston.com, Abrams has been conducting these audits since at least 2019. While Abrams claims that the goal of his visits is education and that he does not intend to get negative reactions, coverage of other audits Abrams has conducted calls those assertions into question, however.

An incident in 2023 at the Lexington Public Library involved Abrams and an associate badgering a library patron who did not want to be filmed until an altercation occurred. And according to the Lowell Sun, Abrams hurled expletives and insults at an employee in Lowell’s Engineering Department during another audit that same year.

Abrams also reportedly has a criminal history. Boston.com reported he pled guilty in October 2020 to two counts each of unarmed robbery and witness intimidation and one count of armed assault to rob. Those charges were related to a string of robberies that occurred in Lowell two years prior.

In addition, he pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of resisting arrest during the Straight Pride Parade that took place in Boston in 2019. Abrams’ visit to Hopkinton has led to a cautious response from Town Hall. While Lazarus provided a statement on the matter, other departments were instructed to decline comment. McAuliffe stated in a text message that the town’s legal counsel and public relations company recommended his department refrain from the discussing the matter. However, McAuliffe expressed support for town employees.

“The municipality and their staff have done nothing wrong,” he stated. Carter did not respond to direct inquiries, other than to share that she has been the target of harassment via her private Facebook page.

Select Board weighs in

At the Sept. 23 Select Board meeting, Lazarus said there was be a formal training session for employees the following week.

“We’ll continue to provide town employees with the training necessary to ensure the rights of all are respected,” she said.

Lazarus did not indicate if Carter would be subject to any punishment. Select Board members stressed the importance of employees’ safety. They suggested better signage for the Health Department and a means to protect confidential medical records.

CPC recaps project progress as FY 27 application deadline approaches

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The Community Preservation Committee on Sept. 18 reviewed progress made on previously approved projects and reminded the public that the application deadline for the upcoming fiscal year is on the horizon.

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 and makes recommendations for approval at May’s Annual Town Meeting.

Applications for proposed project funding are due by Oct. 9. The hearing process will commence on Oct. 16. Chair Ken Weismantel said the deadline was firm, except for potential land purchases from willing sellers.

“It’s inconvenient to the other boards that are trying to get their budgets in,” he said. “I’m going to be a little bit harder on the schedule than I was last year.”

More funding needed for Pyne Field

Member Dan Terry, who chairs the Parks & Recreation Commission, explained that the projects related to the Pyne Field redesign likely will cost more than the $1 million approved in December 2022. They include a cricket pitch, a Little League field and a parking lot.

“We’re working on a figure to make an additional proposal for this coming cycle,” he explained.

He added that there has been “a lot of opposition” from abutters as well as the neighboring sawmill, which has a right-of-way to go through the area.

Weismantel noted that the project’s scope is greater than what was originally proposed. It includes a full batting cage and a movable fence. The chair said he wanted to make sure Parks & Rec was still “on board with those extra items.”

He also suggested that Parks & Rec put the project out to bid to get current estimates. If extra money is needed, Weismantel said it could be sought via a Town Meeting article. Also, if the project exceeds $1 million, Weismantel said CPC funding to hire an owner’s project manager could be sought.

Terry noted that this is “the most complex project” Parks & Rec has pursued during his tenure as a commissioner.

Said Weismantel: “It’s like trying to fit 10 pounds of crap into an 8-pound sack.”

Weismantel called the sawmill’s stance about a proposed 25 mph speed limit “nonsense,” especially considering the widespread community desire for the cricket pitch. Planning Board approval would make that concern moot, he said. “We’re trying to act in the best interest of the town as we move forward on it,” said Terry.

Because of the cost of the proposed irrigation system at Pyne Field, Terry asked that the money be returned to the recreation funding bucket. This request was unanimously approved.

Strides made on other projects

Other Parks & Rec projects have either been completed or are picking up steam, according to Terry. The bathroom design for EMC Park seems to be “getting some traction” with the Facilities Department.

Security cameras at Sandy Beach were installed in May under budget, he added. A water station will be installed there in the early spring.

The boat dock at Sandy Beach also was completed below budget. There was discussion about adding a piece onto it next year with remaining funding to make it into an L-shaped structure. The dock was removed for the season.

The shade structure at the dog park has been finished with funds left over, Terry said, and benches have been ordered. Security cameras will be installed soon. The water station there and on the Town Common will be installed “as soon as possible.”

Other committees on target with goals

Trails Committee chair Peter LaGoy updated the committee on several projects. He noted that the Chamberlain connector trail project has been divided into two phases. Money is being spent on a consultant to perform a stormwater analysis. This data was requested by the Conservation Commission before it can issue a notice of intent.

Once that is received, LaGoy said, construction of a shared-use path can begin. A “fairly substantial” bridge also has been proposed.

The Ash Street parking lot project is in motion, he added, with neighbors in agreement about its location.

LaGoy noted that the committee is in the process of hiring a contractor for the cross-country trail at the middle school to perform some sloping work. Initial mapping of trails at Legacy Farms North is another project in the pipeline.

Additionally, the Trails Committee

approved a contract for a preliminary engineering study for Section 1 of the proposed Upper Charles Trail. Section 1 extends from East Main Street to Hopkinton State Park. In other news, the first phase of the historical preservation and restoration of 168 Hayden Rowe Street, the home of the Hopkinton Historical Society, has been completed. Bids were received for the air conditioning and HVAC systems.

Beth Malloy, the Hopkinton Housing Authority liaison, announced that construction for outdoor improvements is nearly complete. Outdoor furniture is slated for purchase.

Officers reelected unanimously

Weismantel was unanimously reelected as chair, while Eric Sonnett was reelected as vice chair with no opposition. Members also voted unanimously to allow the vice chair to sign invoices in the absence of the chair.

Revenue management secrets

Have you ever noticed how hotel room prices seem to change almost daily? One night a room is $149, the next night it jumps to $179, and by the weekend it could skyrocket to $249 because a big event is in town. That pricing shift is not random. It is called revenue management, and it is one of the biggest reasons hotels consistently maximize their profits. The best part? Vacation rental owners can use the exact same strategies to earn more money and keep their calendars full.

What is revenue management?

At its core, revenue management is all about charging the right price, for the right guest, at the right time. It sounds simple, but it takes strategy and smart planning. Hotels have entire teams dedicated to studying booking patterns, local events and even the weather to make sure their prices are always competitive.

For vacation rental hosts, the good news is you do not need a whole team to do this. Thanks to dynamic pricing tools, owners can access hotel-style technology that automatically adjusts rates in real time. These tools track important data like local demand, competitor rates, holidays and upcoming events. This means you no longer have to guess what to charge on a Saturday night versus a quiet Tuesday in the offseason.

Why dynamic pricing works

Many new hosts make the mistake of setting one flat rate for the entire

season. While that feels easy, it can lead to missed opportunities. Dynamic pricing lets you increase rates during high-demand periods like holiday weekends while lowering rates during slower times to encourage bookings. This balance helps you stay competitive while keeping occupancy rates strong all year long.

It is not just about charging more when demand is high. Sometimes the smartest move is to drop rates slightly to attract a booking that prevents an empty week. A single booked night can make a huge difference when you factor in cleaning fees, guest reviews and momentum on booking platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo.

Beyond the nightly rate

Revenue management goes far beyond the price per night. Savvy hosts also adjust minimum-night stays, create last-minute discounts and offer weekly or monthly deals. For example, you might require a three-night minimum during peak summer weekends but give a discount for week-long stays during slower shoulder seasons. These strategies help you fill your calendar while keeping profits healthy.

Treat your pricing like a business

The key takeaway is simple: Do not treat your vacation rental pricing as a fixed number. Instead, think of it as a living, breathing part of your business. With the right tools and a little strategy, you can operate like a hotelier, stay ahead of competitors, and maximize your earnings.

By embracing revenue management, you not only will boost your profits but also create a smoother, more predictable business that thrives season after season.

Dave Menapace

President

The 5 Star Co-Host, LLC 5strcohost.com

THE ADVERTISER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT OF THIS COLUMN.

Select Board criticized for Crust & Co. misstep

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

Atthe Sept. 23 Select Board meeting, Town Manager Elaine Lazarus acknowledged that Crust & Co., the pizza shop located in the former home of Hillers Pizza, opened Sept. 17 without a building inspection being performed.

The common victualer (CV) license was approved 4-1 at the board’s previous meeting on Sept. 9, with the caveat that all required inspections be completed before the restaurant’s opening. Member Matt Kizner was the lone opponent.

Lazarus said Crust & Co. was open for “at least a day” before she learned of the situation. Once she knew, she immediately called the owner to tell him to close. The inspection was performed “by 11 o’clock that morning,” allowing Crust & Co. to reopen.

Residents spoke about this situation and on enforcement of CV renewal requirements during the public comment period. They pointed out that Crust & Co. opened without the license conditions being met, while Hillers Pizza had received CV license renewals without a deeper probe into the record of its owner, Petros “Peter” Sismanis.

Sismanis was convicted in June on charges of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14 years of age and two counts of witness intimidation. The sentencing sparked protesters to hold signs in front of the restaurant and oppose the transfer of its common victualer license to his wife, Eleni. Hillers Pizza closed abruptly as of Sept. 1 while restaurateur Ryan Dion arranged to buy it.

The board could hold a hearing on Crust & Co’s CV license, Lazarus said. It could issue fines, suspend the license or revoke it.

Asked for his feedback on the matter, Kizner said, “I was the one on the other side of this. I’m happy to sit here and explain why I was right.”

He added that he was “tut-tutted” by other members for his stance at the previous meeting.

“I don’t see that the board did anything wrong,” said chair Joe Clark, noting that the Select Board does not check for building inspection signatures.

Clark added that he will “continue to support conditional approvals” to help businesses open in Hopkinton. He said the town “has a reputation” of being “nonfriendly” to new businesses.

Clark, Amy Ritterbusch and Shahidul Mannan said they would approve of a hearing to discuss a potential fine. Brian Herr disagreed, saying the owner quickly corrected the mistake. Kizner said he was “uncomfortable.”

Hayward dog deemed ‘dangerous’

During its four-hour meeting Sept. 23, the Select Board unanimously voted to determine that a Hayward Street dog is dangerous after hearing descriptions of the dog’s attacks on a neighbor’s chickens and cat.

The dog, named Thor, has resided at 50 Hayward Street since March, according to information presented to the Select Board. Bill Proctor, the town’s animal control officer, said Hopkinton Police responded to incidents involving the pit bull four times between April and July. He submitted reports that corroborate claims by Hannah Chase, a neighbor and owner of the cat and chickens that were attacked.

“Thor does not like other animals,” said Proctor. “It does not like chickens, cats — all that stuff.”

Thor was accused of chasing chickens in April, May and June. In June, Proctor discovered that the dog got loose from its trainer, jumped a 4-foot fence and killed a chicken while injuring two others. Proctor issued a $75 ticket.

Chase lives at 53 Hayward Street. She described an incident when Thor attacked the cat on May 11. Her boyfriend restrained the dog, which did not have a collar, while she pried the cat from Thor’s mouth. The cat ran away and hid in the woods, returning days later with puncture wounds. Chase said she had to pay a $900 veterinarian bill after Thor’s owner refused. A neighbor said she witnessed this attack. In July, Thor jumped out of his home’s window to pursue the cat, according to the report. Proctor caught the dog, returned it to the porch and issued a ticket. He told the owner that he would have to appear before the Select Board to determine next steps.

The owner, Gabriel Knupe, questioned whether his dog attacked the cat. He admitted that the dog ran out of its property at least three times. He also said he has reinforced the doors and windows since the last incident.

The board voted unanimously that Thor is a dangerous dog and required that humane restraint, such as a kennel, dog run, fence and leash, be used. The dog owner must appear before the board again on Oct. 21 to discuss additional remedies after a review of the property by Proctor.

RFP OK’d for McFarland-Sanger House

The Select Board unanimously approved issuing a request for proposals (RFP) to seek a buyer for the historic McFarland-Sanger House, subject to a historic preservation restriction.

Historical Commission chair Michael Roughan explained that the house, located at 148 Lumber Street, is one of the 10 oldest houses in town. It contains unique architectural features, including a central stone chimney characteristic of 18th century homes.

“Its biggest asset is perhaps its biggest Select Board | 9

Dave Menapace, President

When investing, one of the best abilities is durability

You’ve probably heard about “genius” investors or those who got in on the “ground floor” of a company that grew to be a huge success. These stories may be interesting, but they are also rare — and sometimes not even true.

The truth is that successful investing isn’t glamorous, and it isn’t necessarily quick. Instead, a well-founded investing strategy is a durable one — one that can withstand the test of time.

Here are some actions that can help you build durability.

Take your time: Most individual investors make their money over time, not overnight. Despite stories about fortunes made on one or two trades, you’re more likely to be successful making money over time. You’ll want to own a well-diversified portfolio of quality investments — and plan to own those investments for the long term.

A long-term perspective can help you ignore the constant noise in the markets and stay invested. When you hear about the latest “hot” investment tip, especially if it’s already performed well, the best advice is this: Ignore it. Although it may be tempting to buy a popular investment, it may not fit with the rest of your portfolio, it may have already peaked and it may be riskier than you expect. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Invest in quality: When building your investment portfolio, quality should be a top priority. For stocks, quality is frequently measured by the steadiness of earnings and dividend growth over time. For bonds, one measure of quality is an investment-grade credit rating, which indicates that the borrower has a good track record of making its promised interest and principal payments and the bond has a relatively low risk of default.

Quality investments are more likely

to overcome temporary challenges, which is why a good track record can be an indication of quality. Don’t reach for yield by looking for investments offering the highest dividend or interest rate without considering the risk. Remember, there is no perfect investment — a higher rate generally means higher risk.

Stick to your strategy: Building a long-term strategy can anchor your decisions and provide a roadmap for your investment choices. Your strategy should consider your goals, tolerance for risk and the time needed to save toward each goal.

Within that strategy, you can be flexible. Buy and hold, for example, doesn’t mean buy and forget. Over time, your goals may change, or you may choose to hold more conservative investments. But it’s important to make changes for the right reasons, not simply because stocks or your other investments may have dropped in price.

Perhaps one of the biggest mistakes you can make is trying to time the markets, moving in and out in response to short-term declines or the latest prediction. This often results in getting into and out of the market at the wrong times, costing time and money — and resulting in lower returns over time.

Remember that investments don’t all move up or down at the same time but portfolio diversification can help smooth the ups and downs of the market. A long-term perspective can help you see past shortterm fluctuations in some investments.

Successful investing isn’t about making dramatic moves or chasing the latest trends. It’s about developing a durable strategy personalized for your life, then sticking with it through market ups and downs. In investing, as in life, slow and steady could help win the race.

Mark Freeman, CEPA

Edward Jones Financial Advisor

77 W. Main Street, Hopkinton, MA (508) 293-4017

Mark.Freeman@edwardjones.com

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

THE ADVERTISER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT OF THIS COLUMN.

Select Board criticized for Crust & Co. misstep

Select Board | from page 8

liability,” he added about the chimney.

Roughan noted that the commission owned the home for 20 years, but it has not been able to find a way to simultaneously preserve and utilize it. In 2021, Town Meeting voted to transfer the property from the commission to the Select Board to authorize its disposition.

While the Historical Commission has done work on the building previously, Roughan said it could not support further preservation efforts without knowledge that the building will be used. It agreed that it was better to put the house on the market with a deed restriction that would prioritize its preservation, even if it were moved to another location.

One impediment to its use is the lack of an adequate sewer system there. If adjacent town-owned open space could support a well, that would allow for a sewer system for the property, Roughan said.

Lazarus said she prepared a draft RFP. Town Meeting approval would be

needed to approve the sewer connection through the open space land.

Town counsel discussion continues

Before the meeting, members (excluding Brian Herr, who abstained from the process), ranked the four law firms vying for the role of town counsel using a data matrix. They scored candidates on several qualifications, including cost, responsiveness and experience with government agencies. While they entered the meeting intending to choose two finalists for a second round of interviews, they decided to eliminate Brooks & DeRensis (offices in Boston and Natick) from consideration.

The remaining firms include current town counsel Harrington Heep; KP Law; and Mead, Talerman & Costa (MTC). All members noted that their rankings separated firms by only a few points.

The board planned to have all three firms return for final interviews.

Mark Freeman, CEPA

PFAS forum educates residents on potential sources, MWRA connection

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

The town’s hour-long forum Sept. 16 at the Hopkinton Public Library provided residents with information on efforts to keep per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances known as PFAS in the town’s water system below the current maximum contaminant

levels allowed by the state.

Health Department Director Shaun McAuliffe led the discussion with support from Kerry Reed, the Department of Public Works director. They explained known and potential sources of PFAS in the town’s water as well as remediation efforts to lower the levels and ultimately to connect to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) as an alternate water source.

Known as “forever chemicals,” these synthetic, potentially harmful chemicals used since the 1940s can be found in a wide variety of household products and industrial processes. While the effects of PFAS still are being studied, the Environmental Protection Agency found that exposure to certain levels of PFAS may be harmful to children and pregnant or lactating women.

Town ‘in a good place’ with PFAS reduction

PFAS levels in the water have been an ongoing concern for the town. The issue prompted the installation of a water filtration system last year at Well 6, the town’s most used well.

There also was speculation that firefighting foam used by a former firefighter training center off Fruit Street contained PFAS, which may have leached into the water supply.

Town Manager Elaine Lazarus explained that this event was a follow-up to a previous forum held last May.

A key development since that time, McAuliffe said, was Well 6’s PFAS filtration system going online. It has reduced the water’s PFAS content to small levels of up to 2 parts per trillion (ppt). The allowable level currently stands at 20 ppt, but it is being debated by the state and federal governments.

McAuliffe described Hopkinton as being “in a good place” regarding PFAS levels. A chart he displayed showed a dramatic drop since the filtration system’s installation.

“We’re pretty confident that PFAS as a contaminant in the community is related to firefighting foam and reconstituted sewage sludge as a fertilizer that’s been applied at several spots in town,” he stressed.

A bill currently being debated by the

Legislature would restrict the use of reconstituted sludge, the health director added.

McAuliffe noted that PFAS mainly is present in food and water-repellent and non-stick products, with water as the thirdhighest source.

Food packaging meant to control leakage by oily or greasy foods is a known contaminant, he said. For example, a chocolate cupcake with a white frosting swirl contained a PFAS concentration of 17,500 ppt, according to a study McAuliffe mentioned.

Said McAuliffe: “We are getting exposure every day.”

Switching from processed to organic food can reduce an individual’s PFAS level, he added.

Private wells pose testing issues

McAuliffe also explained the complex issues that can arise when homeowners with private wells report PFAS water concentration levels higher than 20 ppt to the state versus the Health Department. The Health Department has jurisdiction over private wells.

While the Health Department will work with a homeowner who reports PFAS testing levels there, the state could deem a home as a hazardous waste site, ultimately lowering the property value. The property likely would be entered into the Massachusetts Contingency Plan database, McAuliffe explained. This would prompt the homeowner to hire a licensed professional to create a treatment plan and report the findings to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). The treatment plan could cost the homeowner around $20,000, he said.

Also, not all testing companies are licensed, according to McAuliffe.

“If you elect to test for PFAS, you need to educate yourself,” he said. “And that’s why I think we’re all here.”

McAuliffe said the state is investigating an industrial facility in an adjacent town where PFAS is suspected to have leached into a private well. He did not name the town, but he said the home is downgradient from the facility.

Out of the homeowners with private wells that reported data to the Health De-

partment, McAuliffe said this well was the only one that had a PFAS concentration of more than 20 ppt.

MWRA connection, well filtration discussed

The biggest question posed at the event was about the progress the town has made toward connecting with the MWRA water system.

Lazarus explained that the town is involved with the permitting process. The town needs to sign an intermunicipal agreement (IMA) with Southborough to connect through that town to the MWRA system. The cost of the connection will be analyzed.

“It’s a decision that the community is ultimately going to make,” she said. “But we’re proceeding with the permitting so we can get to that point.”

Reed added that the typical permitting process can take 5-7 years.

“I think we’re on track,” she said. “It takes a long time.”

During the process so far, Reed said she discovered the town cannot produce as much water as it needs. The current drought amplified this issue.

“There’s no immediate health concern,” said Reed about the water, adding, “I know it seems scary.”

McAuliffe, a former environmental consultant, noted that PFAS “wasn’t anywhere on anybody’s radar” until the past two decades.

Resident water expert Ken Weismantel added that Well 6 is relatively new compared to other town wells, existing for about 20 years.

Another question arose from the audience as to why Wells 7 and 8 do not have filtration systems. Reed explained that their PFAS concentration was less than 20 ppt.

Weimantel, who sits on the state’s Water Resources Commission (WRC), explained that 40% of the town’s water comes from the Ashland treatment plant. Wells 7 and 8 basically are only used in the summer, when there are restrictions on the amount of water that can be purchased from Ashland.

When residents asked about the need to purchase reverse osmosis filters, McAuliffe advised against it.

“I would say buy a new car or go on a nice vacation,” he said. “I wouldn’t waste my money.”

McAuliffe added that if MassDEP wants to collect data from Hopkinton, it should indemnify the sites it wants to test.

Parks & Rec considers future of Pyne Field

By Nick Schofield Staff Writer

The Parks & Recreation Commis -

sion on Sept. 23 voted to ask for additional funds for the Pyne Field project as well as funding for two additional projects ahead of the upcoming Community Preservation application deadline of Oct. 9.

During a review of possible CPCfunded projects, Parks & Rec Director Jon Lewitus updated commission members on the status of the Pyne Field project. He noted that a 90% submission plan was submitted to his department by Gale Associates earlier this month, and that the design firm had submitted a cost estimate as well.

“The subtotal is $1,583,000 and change, not including contingency for 20%,” said Lewitus. With the contingency, the total estimated amount for the project tops out at around $1,939,000.

“[We’re] essentially looking to double the cost of this project,” he added.

“The cost of the project has doubled what was initially proposed,” vice chair Kyle Smith clarified.

The Community Preservation Committee in 2022 approved $1 million in funding to redesign Pyne Field for use as both baseball and cricket fields. According to both Lewitus and Parks & Rec Commission chair Dan Terry, some of that money already has been spent.

Given a near doubling in price of the Pyne Field project, Terry expressed concern over getting groups to pay the necessary fees to use the fields in order to pay for maintenance.

“I think we need to have hard discussions with the two tenants we expect to use this and make sure they’re aware that they’re going to be charged for the fields,” Terry said. He noted the fees charged to them would cover the cost of maintenance, infrastructure and upkeep, and that those fees might dissuade them from using the fields in the first place.

“If they’re going to vote with their feet at that point, I don’t want to make that investment,” he explained. “We need to make sure this is going to make economic sense to the town.”

“To be honest, we can’t build this field if we can’t maintain it,” Lewitus said, echoing Terry’s sentiments.

Commission members discussed the possibility of dropping the project given the price tag and uncertainty regarding user groups. Member Ravi Dasari expressed confidence that local cricket organizations would generate demand for the cricket pitch at Pyne Field if the project continued.

Following further discussion, members agreed to authorize Lewitus to submit a CPC funds request of up to $1.1 million, pending calculations around what already has been spent from allocated funds.

As part of the funding discussions for Pyne Field, the commission also voted to return $25,000 to the CPC that was allocated for irrigation. The new application will include $100,000 for

Select Board supports plaque honoring enslaved residents

Plaque | from page 1

of 36 enslaved persons identified as living in Hopkinton between the town’s founding in 1715 to around 1790, when the last enslaved person was listed on the town census. The current design of the bronze plaque measures 14 inches wide and 20.5 inches high.

At the March Parks & Recreation Commission meeting, chair Dan Terry said the context about slavery in town should be included as well as the names of the enslaved to make it more educational. He also sought “a broader discussion” in town before the commission rendered its decision.

Peer review process questioned

“The purpose of the Historical Society’s project is to honor people … whose names and personal histories were unknown, who were in a sense invisible, as

they were viewed as property rather than citizens and were bound in servitude in Hopkinton during their lives,” explained Town Manager Elaine Lazarus.

She added that when the Select Board received the request from the Parks & Recreation Commission, a peer review process was initiated. She noted that this was a “challenge” because the enslaved people did not own property, pay taxes or write wills that would have documented their existence.

Said Lazarus: “They may only appear in documents pertaining to the people who own them.”

The peer review found issues with some of the research. For example, each enslaved person’s name must have evidence of having been owned by a real person as well as being enslaved in Hopkinton at some point.

The review concluded that more research needed to be done. It recommended that a professional genealogist who specializes in researching enslaved

people be hired.

Hopkinton Historical Society archivist Linda Connelly took issue with the statement about her research. She has dedicated 10 years to her work and noted that she did “really tight research,” attributing 17 sources in the bibliography.

“It seems to us a little overreach that we have to prove, even more so, that [the enslaved people] lived here,” said Anne Mattina, the society’s president.

Stressed Mattina: “You’re not going to get on ancestry.com and find them.”

Added Connelly: “It’s been 300 years. Could we do something just to acknowledge them and to broaden the history?”

Select Board members were supportive of the memorial plaque’s installation on the Town Common.

“We have a memorial to our founding white families that were not enslaved on the common,” member Amy Ritterbusch said. “So, I think having a memorial to these people is appropriate on the common as well.”

YOUR MONEY, YOUR INDEPENDENCE

Open Enrollment 2026:

Glenn Brown, Certified Financial Planner

Open enrollment is your annual opportunity to review and select the benefits that best fit your health and financial needs. Beyond medical insurance, you’ll choose dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, tax-advantaged accounts (dependent care, commuter benefits) and retirement savings plans.

One area that often causes confusion is deciding between traditional medical plans and High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs), along with their powerful partner: the Health Savings Account (HSA). Understanding how this work together can help you make smarter choices for 2026 and beyond.

Choosing the right medical plan

Selecting a medical plan comes down to two basics:

• Provider comfort: Make sure you’re satisfied with the innetwork doctors and hospitals.

• Cost expectations: Review your historical annual medical expenses and consider whether you anticipate major changes. If your expenses are generally low and predictable, an HDHP paired with an HSA can be especially attractive.

Medical Plans & HSAs

Why consider a high-deductible health plan (HDHP)?

Lower premiums, higher deductibles: HDHPs typically have lower monthly premiums, but you’ll pay out of pocket until you reach your deductible.

Potential cost savings: For healthy individuals and families who don’t expect large medical bills, the premium savings plus HSA advantages often outweigh the higher deductible.

HSA eligibility: You can contribute to an HSA only if you are enrolled in an HDHP. This makes the plan an entry point to one of the most tax-efficient tools available.

Health Savings Account (HSA): Triple tax advantage

In 2026, contribution limits have increased and are capped as follows:

• Individual: $4,400

• Family: $8,750

• Catch-up (age 55+): $1,000

Why do HSAs stand out? Three reasons: contributions are federal, state, and FICA tax-free; withdrawals for qualified healthcare expenses are tax-free; and balances can be invested for tax-free growth. No other account offers this “triple tax advantage.”

Don’t miss the free money

Shockingly, more than half of eligible employees don’t open or fund an HSA. That’s surprising because many employers contribute $500–$2,000 per year to jump-start employee accounts. Contributing even $1 per pay period can unlock hundreds or thousands in employer dollars.

Some companies reward healthy habits: for example, perhaps $400 is added to your HSA when you and your spouse complete annual physicals. Skipping this is like leaving free money on the table.

Real-world tax savings

Consider a family in the 24% federal tax bracket who spends around $4,000

annually on out-of-pocket medical expenses. By funding those expenses through an HSA, they save about $1,480 in taxes (federal, state of MA, and FICA combined).

Families in higher brackets gain even more. A household in the 32% bracket contributing the 2026 family maximum could save nearly $3,900 in taxes.

HSAs as a retirement strategy

HSAs aren’t just about today’s medical bills — they can be a powerful long-term planning tool. Some families pay current medical expenses out of pocket and allow HSA funds to stay invested. Over time, this can compound into a substantial tax-free pool of money.

In retirement, HSA dollars can cover Medicare premiums, dental, vision, hearing aids, nursing services and long-term care insurance. For early retirees, HSAs can even pay COBRA premiums to bridge coverage until Medicare eligibility.

The bottom line

Open enrollment is one of the most important financial planning windows of the year. If you’re eligible for an HDHP and HSA, weigh the trade-offs carefully, run the numbers, and don’t overlook the employer contributions and long-term tax savings. Learn more by connecting with your benefits coordinator or Certified Financial Planner.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Glenn Brown is a Holliston resident and owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www. PlanDynamic.com. Glenn is a fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ helping motivated people take control of their planning and investing, so they can balance kids, aging parents and financial independence.

OIG: Ex-Parks & Rec director violated state procurement laws

By Mary Ellen Gambon Staff Writer

n investigation by the Office of the Inspector General showed that a former Parks & Recreation director intentionally circumvented the state’s procurement laws by arranging a “handshake agreement” with a local food truck vendor, the OIG announced Sept. 22 in a statement.

Jay Guelfi, who served as the department director from 2015 until his retirement in May 2023, was found to have violated state procurement laws and town policies related to handling cash. The OIG found that the Parks & Recreation Department lacked internal controls to prevent fraud, waste and abuse of revenues from a town concession stand. It determined that Guelfi did not turn over the cash generated from the concession stand to the town’s treasurer, as required by law.

“Rather, he purportedly kept some of the cash in his desk and used at least some of it to reimburse employees for purchases

made for the department, in violation of the town’s cash handling policies,” according to the release. “A full accounting of all money received by Guelfi and where it went could never be reconstructed due to insufficient records.”

The OIG “is an independent, nonpartisan oversight agency mandated to prevent and detect fraud, waste and abuse of public resources at the state and municipal level across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,” according to its website.

A letter from Inspector General Jeffrey S. Shapiro to Town Manager Elaine Lazarus, Select Board Chair Joe Clark and Parks & Recreation Commission chair Dan Terry dated Sept. 22 was attached to the release. It stated that the calls were made in March, July and September 2023 to the OIG’s fraud hotline concerning cash handling practices within the department. These calls prompted the investigation into Guelfi’s conduct.

“The commonwealth’s governmental bodies must act as good stewards of

public assets in conducting procurements and accounting for cash revenues,” stated Shapiro in the letter.

“Handshake deals and desk drawers full of cash are not only clear violations of state law and local policies but also are an abuse of public resources,” continued Shapiro in the statement. “Those conducting the public’s business must proceed fairly, openly, and in accordance with the law. Failure to do so erodes the public’s confidence and significantly increases the likelihood of fraud, waste and abuse.”

Violations of state law outlined

The letter noted that Chapter 30B of Massachusetts General Law requires that municipalities seek written quotations from at least three companies for supplies or services valued between $10,000 and $50,000. For contracts valued at more than $50,000, cities or towns must procure the

HOPKINTON HOPKINTON Family Day Day

Thank You!

A huge thank you to all of our sponsors, town organizations, and supporters for helping us to create another outstanding community event. — The Friends of Hopkinton

Hopkinton Organizations

Baypath Humane Society, Hopkinton Center for the Arts, Conservation Commission, Hopkinton Destination Imagination, Hopkinton DPW, Hopkinton Fire Department, Hopkinton Garden Club, Hopkinton Girl Scouts, Hopkinton High School Varsity Cheerleading, Hopkinton Little League, Hopkinton Moms Group, Hopkinton Police, Hopkinton Public Library, Hopkinton Public Schools, Hopkinton Scout Leaders Association, SEPAC, Hopkinton Trails Club, Hopkinton Women’s Club, Hopkinton Youth & Family Services, Hopkinton Youth Frisbee, Knights of ColumbusBishop Rice Council, Lions Club, Metrowest YMCA, Next Generation Children's Center, Project Just Because, Sunshine Preschool, Team Hoyt / The Hoyt Foundation, The Hopkinton Open Space Preservation Commission, Troop 4 Hopkinton, Vineyard Church

Special Thank You

Town Manager’s Office, Select Board, Building and Grounds Dept, Hopkinton Police, Hopkinton Fire, Hopkinton DPW, Marathon Fund Committee, MetroWest YMCA, Hopkinton Public Schools

“One witness recalled Guelfi stating that he did not want to involve the town accountant, who had given Guelfi pushback on previous purchases,” according to the letter. “The agreement with the vendor restricted the town’s oversight of concession revenues and the cash handled by Guelfi.”

The department was found not to have entered into a formal written contract with the vendor and failed to document an oral agreement. Emails provided by the vendor to the OIG showed the percentages to the department were “inconsistent” from year to year.

The OIG provided recommendations to the town to prevent this situation from happening again. They included evaluating the towns cash-handling policies and ensuring that there are “multiple layers of review.”

It also recommended that an assessment be conducted to identify the town’s other elected or appointed independent boards or commissions. These entities should be required to execute memorandums of understanding “recognizing that all townwide policies, including those on procurements, written contracts, and cash handling, apply to employees of their respective departments.”

Town officials respond

In an interview with the Independent shortly after the announcement, Select Board chair Joe Clark said he received

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS in

Lalitkumar Lakum, Smita Lakum

Art on the Trail

Artists and Hopkinton Cultural Council representatives gather Sept. 22 for the Art on the Trail reception at the Center Trail. The exhibition runs through Oct. 24.

Parks & Rec considers future of Pyne Field

irrigation at Pyne Field, based on updated estimates from Gale Associates.

Lighting, benches other funding priorities

The commission also voted to add the first phase of a lighting plan for the Fruit Street athletic complex and funding for benches at various Parks & Rec properties to its CPC funding requests for fiscal year 2027.

Lewitus shared with the commission that there were two potential projects for lighting at the Fruit Street complex — one for just the pickleball and tennis courts, and the other for lighting all the fields. He stated that the lights for the courts could lead to a good source of income for his department.

OIG: Ex-Parks

“It’s a big opportunity for Parks & Rec to generate revenue if we want to,” he said. “I think it really serves that community for sure.”

According to a quote solicited by Lewitus, light installation at the Fruit Street courts could cost around $200,000. Terry estimated the cost to light the fields would be significantly more expensive, given the potential need to build additional infrastructure.

Member Amy O’Donnell was skeptical of funding the courts over the fields. “I think it will be received poorly,” she said, claiming that residents have been asking for the Fruit Street fields to be lit for some time.

Dasari noted that cricket teams who use the fields have been asking for lights as well.

“We would make much more rev-

& Rec director violated state procurement laws

the letter from the OIG earlier in the day.

“Obviously this is something the town knew about,” said Clark. “My understanding is that the town cooperated immensely during this investigation. The town has taken measures and will continue to take measures to prevent something like this from happening again.”

“It was great to have that type of feedback,” he added regarding the OIG’s recommendations.

“A lot of times, people want to look back to figure out what happened,” stressed Clark. “I want to focus on what we can do moving forward. Hopefully stuff like this will never happen again.”

Clark also praised Jon Lewitus, the current Parks & Rec director, for his hard work and professionalism.

“The Town of Hopkinton has received the Office of the Inspector General’s report regarding past practices within the Parks and Recreation Department,” stated Town Manager Elaine Lazarus in an email to the Independent. “The town takes these findings seriously. We are reviewing the Inspector General’s recommendations and will move forward with implementing the necessary policy and oversight changes to ensure full compliance with state law and to safeguard public funds.”

Guelfi, reached by phone, declined to comment.

enue to have lights at the Fruit Street fields,” O’Donnell added. Smith contributed by saying he was interested in a solution that does not duplicate investment.

After hearing a rough estimate of $750,000 for lighting the Fruit Street fields from Lewitus, the commission agreed that it did not want to handle lighting the courts and the fields as two separate projects. Instead, it would start with requesting funds for the

courts first and consider that as Phase 1 of a larger Fruit Street project. The other proposal the commission approved for funding is the placement of picnic benches at different Parks & Rec facilities. The project was conceptualized after the Hopkinton Garden Club requested to install a bench on Town Common. Areas where the benches could be installed include EMC Park, Sandy Beach and town playgrounds.

Parks & Rec | from page 11

Guelfi | from page 12

Under Pressure expands offerings with Home+

Under Pressure has delivered customized power washing, cleaning and property maintenance solutions to Hopkinton residents and businesses for more than 25 years. When a home’s exterior needs a refresh — roof and windows cleaned, gutters cleared — Mark Mercer, CEO of the Hopkinton-based company, is ready to assist.

The professional exterior cleaning service offers year-round, affordable cleaning for siding, roofs, patios, windows, solar panels and more.

Under Pressure now offers a full home maintenance program called HOME+.

“The HOME+ program is a modern approach to maintaining your home,” Mercer explained. “You don’t wait for your car to break down before you provide necessary upkeep such as changing the oil. It’s the same with your home — you prevent issues when you maintain the basics. Our top-to-bottom services keep your home running smoothly.”

Under Pressure uses the latest in cleaning technology to keep exteriors sparkling. For siding, as an example, crews use soft washing (not power washing) to remove dirt, mildew and other debris.

“Soft washing allows us to adjust our

Beginning with my initial assessment at Elevate, I have been so incredibly impressed with the programming, training facility, and coaching staff. I have spent the last 5 years either designing my own workouts or using programs I found on the internet with little progress and success. Since starting at Elevate I have seen improvements in my body composition, strength, energy, and mobility. Every time I leave the gym, I feel better than when I walked in.

cleaning based off what we’re seeing,” Mercer said. “Each technician is trained to know how to clean any surface and change our technique based on what we’re seeing.”

Crews are trained to handle a variety of exterior materials, including wood, stucco and vinyl. They even can clean cedar shingles, a New England staple that comes with its own challenges. “There’s an art to cleaning it. It’s a soft wood,” Mercer said, adding that the company specializes in cedar restoration.

Under Pressure also can handle those cold, cold chores of winter, including plowing and ice dam removal.

“Ice dam removal is one of those services where experience and the right tools matter,” Mercer said. “We use professional steam equipment to safely melt away the ice without damaging the roof. Our crews are trained, insured and equipped to be on roofs in tough winter conditions. For years, anyone with a truck and a ladder tried to offer this, but there’s a right way and a wrong way — and we’ve built our process to make sure it’s done correctly and safely.”

As for plowing, Mercer said the company uses large tractors equipped with snowblowers. That way, crews can “place snow exactly where the client needs it or

wants it, not just push it into a pile.”

Additionally, Under Pressure can brighten the holidays with its professional illumination installation program.

“Holiday lighting is more than just putting lights on a house — it’s about creating an experience,” Mercer explained. “For many families, it’s an emotional purchase. They want that ‘wow’ factor without the stress or risk of doing it themselves. Our team handles everything safely and efficiently, and we design displays that fit each home’s style. It’s been rewarding to see the joy it brings, and for me, it’s a way to bring out my creativity while serving our clients.”

Under Pressure is based at 88 Elm Street in Hopkinton. “Hopkinton’s been wonderful to us,” Mercer said. “We have an amazing group of customers, and we’re glad to call this community home, both personally and professionally.” The company also serves most communities in eastern and central Massachusetts. More information is available by calling 508-9446644 or visiting underpressurewash.com.

Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Hopkinton Independent advertisers.

Baypath Adoptable Animal of the Week

Each week, the Independent highlights an animal available for adoption at Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton. This week, we feature 5-year-old Lexi.

Here is Baypath’s description of Lexi:

“Lexi is a 5-year-old sweetheart who’s equal parts silly and snuggly. Rehomed through no fault of her own, she has lived happily with kids, loves belly rubs and thinks stuffed toys are the best part of the day.

“She’s looking to be the only dog in her new home but enjoys calm walks alongside doggy pals. Lexi is housetrained, knows her basics (sit, stay, come), and settles beautifully — sleeping quietly in her crate overnight and snuggling as a devoted couch companion.

“An A-plus cuddler, Lexi is ready to meet her forever family. Could it be yours?”

For more information about Lexi 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.

For more than 25 years, Hopkinton’s Mark Mercer — pictured with his two children — has owned and operated Under Pressure.

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.

SCHEDULE UPDATE

The Hopkinton Public Library will be closed from Oct. 11-13 in observance of Indigenous People’s Day/Columbus Day.

ADULT PROGRAMS

American Painting

Through the Centuries

Thursday, Oct. 23, 2-3:30 p.m.

Presenter Martha Chiarchiaro presents the first part of a four-part series on American painting. The presentation will explore the works of painters across the centuries, from John Singleton Copley to 20th century artists like Georgia O’Keefe and Jackson Pollock. Chiarchiaro’s presentations are designed to provide an in-depth look at the life and times of people through their art. Registration is required for this series, as space is limited.

News Media in the Misinformation Age

Thursday, Oct. 23, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

SENIOR SNIPPETS

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 508497-9730. The Senior Center also has a Facebook page that provides updates on resources, programs and events.

Book Club

Wednesday, Oct. 1, 10:30 a.m.

One of life’s pleasures is a good book. Another is the time to read it. At this meeting, attendees can relax and bring something to drink, all while enjoying book reviews and socializing. This month, the club will discuss “The Keeper of Happy Endings” by Barbara Davis.

Our Time Memory Cafe at the Senior Center

Thursday, Oct. 2, 1 p.m.

This is a welcoming gathering at the Senior Center for those experiencing forgetfulness or mild cognitive impairment, or living with dementia, and their care partner, family and friends. The cafe is a place to socialize, share experiences and form friendships. Live music and refreshments usually are offered. This is a joint venture between Senior Services and the Hopkinton Public Library. For more information, call the Senior Center.

Award-winning freelance journalist

Philip Eil will lead a discussion about the current state of news media, covering the 24-hour news cycle, misinformation, the influence of social media algorithms and more. Eil’s presentation will discuss how the current state of news media evolved and what media consumers can do to maintain a healthy information diet.

CHILDREN’S & YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS

Music & Movement

Wednesday, Oct. 15, 10-10:45 a.m.

Shon from Rock-A-Bye Beats will lead this month’s Music & Movement program, which is recommended for ages 0 to 5.

Art Forms of South Asia: Rangoli

Saturday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-noon

Instructor Charusmitha Ram will lead the second part of a two-part series on art forms of South Asia. Participants will decorate wooden mandala mats with vibrant colored sand. Rangoli, or “rows of color,” is a traditional Indian art form where decorative mandala patterns are created using materials like colored powders, rice flour, flower petals and sand. This program is for ages 5 and up. Children under the age of 9 must have a responsible person age 12 or older accompany them during the program. Supplies are limited, and registration is required.

Savvy $eniors

Monday, Oct. 6, 1 p.m.

A representative from the Office of the Attorney General’s Community Engagement Division will share a presentation on the “Savvy $enior,” which will provide an overview of the most common current forms of online, mail, in-person, crypto and other scams and how to avoid them; how to prevent identify theft (and steps to take if one experiences it); and how to contact the AGO’s Elder Hotline. A representative from the Hopkinton Police Department also will be present to answer questions about local resources or concerns.

Drive-Through Flu Clinic for 65-plus

Wednesday, Oct. 15, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Hopkinton Health Department is hosting a flu shot clinic for those 65 and older at the Senior Center. This will be a drive-through event, so individuals don’t even need to get out of their car. Registration is required. Those interested should call the Senior Center or Health Department to have the registration link emailed.

Creeque Alley

Thursday, Oct. 16, 1 p.m.

Acoustic duo Sean and Dan pay tribute to American folk music, the 1960s folk music revival and folk rock of the mid-to-late 1960s. This program is sponsored by a grant from the Hopkinton Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and the Friends of Hopkinton Seniors.

ScHoolS

Charleswood subcontractor to serve as Planning Board’s ‘eyes and ears’

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

Representatives from Vertex reported on a “yellow” issue at the Charleswood Elementary School site that has been resolved through enhanced monitoring, and funding was approved for a third-party firm to review progress as construction begins.

The discussions took place at the Sept. 16 Elementary School Building Committee (ESBC) meeting.

Vertex Project Manager Chris Kenney reported that foundation work was suspended by the building inspector pending issuance of a foundation permit.

He explained the issue arose when the contractor “got ahead of himself” and started work prior to a formal permit, approval or sign-off.

Kenney said the good news is authorization was received to proceed with building areas A (south) and C (middle) on the site. For context, B is to the north and D is the gymnasium area at the northwest.

Going forward, Kenney said, the situation was recorded and steps were taken to ensure the contractor is closely watched and follows the building inspector’s rules. He is reminded of this obligation daily, Kenney said.

“We had some struggles getting out of the gate as the project kicked off,” added Vertex Project Manager Chris Eberly.

Eberly said the way the contractor “chose to approach the work” on the foundation necessitated a second person be brought on for monitoring such a large site.

He said all costs are within the current budget, and it is not concerning.

Tighe and Bond to review progress

The Vertex representatives also talked about the consulting engineering form Tighe & Bond being brought on as a third-party reviewer for the Planning

Board. The ESBC voted to approve a “not to exceed” amount of $21,500 for 20 site visits by the firm.

The purpose of the review is to see that construction proceeds in accordance with the Planning Board’s requirements.

Eberly explained Tighe and Bond functions as the “eyes and ears” of the Planning Board and town planner.

He noted the town planner is responsible for the stormwater management permit.

While the Conservation Commission has an agent to act as its “eyes and ears,” the Planning Department does not have a staff person to serve in that capacity, Eberly said.

Therefore, it is appropriate to bring on a subcontractor to review a project of this scale and size, he added.

And, Eberly said, having the same engineer that was the peer reviewer continue monitoring the entire site made sense.

He clarified that the stormwater management and site approval permits apply to the entire site, whereas the conservation agent is responsible for areas related to wetlands protection.

Kenney said the subcontractor’s purpose would be to keep the town abreast of progress and guard the com-

munity against deficiencies.

Kenney also outlined the reasons for the 20 site visits.

These include a pre-construction meeting as well observation during the construction/excavation of stormwater basins and soil testing, precast concrete installation, concrete and asphalt pavement installation, retaining wall installation along the south side of the street, the drainage system prior to backfilling components, drainage system utility trench work, roadway construction prior to backfilling and more.

The committee also looked at photos depicting, among other things, foundation formwork at the cistern under the southwest corner of the building. Kenney said the cistern is to hold water for fire protection.

Another photo showed the excavated loam processing area, which will be the future field at the school.

The committee also heard the payout to the town from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) through May 2025 is $4,347,001 out of $8.8 million in costs eligible for reimbursement.

Eberly explained the project funding agreement goes through the end of the design. As the project moves on, he said, the bid amendment will be reworked based on the actual construction costs.

Residents offer input on school calendar

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

During a Zoom listening session on Sept. 21, the School Committee and Superintendent Evan Bishop received comments about what the school calendar should include in the future. School Committee chair Kyla McSweeney said members would not be offering answers and would hold another

session to gain input in-person on Oct. 9. After that, the board will deliberate publicly on the matter, “keeping track of the insights” they are gathering.

McSweeney explained that the contract with teachers, settled in June, mandates schedule accommodations including a start date for teachers on the Monday before Labor Day and an off day on the Friday of that week.

She noted Hopkinton is a growing and diverse community, and the current calendar’s inclusion of various religious and cultural holidays reflects the district’s “all means all” philosophy. If the calendar remains the same as this school year, future end dates will be June 18, June 22, June 15 and June 18, without snow days. With snow dates, the end dates would be June 22-26, June 23-29, June 16-23 and June 20-24.

The question is whether to have only a dozen state-mandated holidays off and end earlier in June, or stick with the calendar that was changed a few years ago to be more inclusive of different religions and cultures.

Resident Nathan Long said he has spoken to several people who want the calendar to change, while not targeting a specific group or religion. He said only having the required holidays instead of “random” Tuesday and Thursday ones, for example, would allow for an earlier end date. Meanwhile, people who observe the holidays could keep their kids out of school.

Sravana Krishna said the calendar should be consistent, and if it is to be inclusive, either all observances should be included or none.

Work is underway on the new Charleswood School.

School Committee considers debt exclusion request for HVAC

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer

At its next meeting, the School Committee is tasked with deciding the type of heating/cooling system that is necessary going forward as part of its long-range capital plan.

On Sept. 25, representatives from CMTA gave a presentation outlining energy options at the high school and middle school, keeping the town’s “net zero” resolution in mind.

They also reviewed audit results of utilities and conditions at those two buildings.

To convert the high school to a highefficiency energy system would not be that major a task, according to CMTA. It would involve installation of piping to a heating/ cooling system and to a water system on a separate loop.

The audit showed classrooms in early September with temperatures up to 83 degrees at the high school and 81 degrees at the middle school. The representatives explained the high school’s chiller is at 50% capacity; it is failing and not built to accommodate the entire building.

The middle school is in better shape, having replaced gas-fired boilers in 2023 and upgraded HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) controls that same year. To accomplish a conversion there would be more difficult because most of the ex-

isting ducts and pipes could not be reused, according to the representatives.

The options they outlined were traditional plus cooling, air source heat pump, geothermal water-to-water heat pump (similar to what the Charleswood and Hopkins projects have) or geothermal distributed heat pump. Costs would be $11.5 million, $13.7 million, $18.9 million and $22.9 million, respectively.

The consultants recommended the geothermal water-to-water heat pump, saying the “best” option could not be done in phases, as it was intrusive and not practical.

The geothermal water-to-water heat pump option would focus on adding cooling to classrooms, electrifying heat and leaving occupied space renovations to a later date. This system would have gas remaining only in the kitchen, they said.

Done in two phases, the recommended option would cost $10.7 million and then $8.2 million, they said.

With these options, the better the system, the more is spent on cooling but less on utilities.

Work would involve tearing up grass and putting pipes in the practice field between the middle school and high school. To do that would take 3-4 months and could be done any time of year, including winter.

The middle school could be done retaining the new boilers and incorporating them into the design of geothermal systems, a “hybrid” approach. But that

work could be put off in light of the new boilers, according to the representatives.

The presentation also included an outline about possible rebates from MassSave (state) and Investment Tax Credit (federal) programs. Reimbursements likely would occur a year later for state and 2-3 years after the fact from federal money.

For the geothermal WWHP system, the estimates are $1.3 million and $6.4 million back, representatives said.

Committee must choose option

Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations Susan Rothermich noted the committee had to adopt which scenario it preferred or something different. She said the high school’s system needs to be addressed within the next five years.

Funding would be through a debt exclusion that Town Meeting would have to approve, she said.

“We’ve been spending money like there is no tomorrow,” said member Chris Masters. “We have huge debt piling up, and this is $10 million or more.”

Masters noted the schools are high performing in the state now. “I’m in the hockey business and ask, ‘Does this help with the win?’ Our schools are doing great, and you might be warm in class. … How do we pay for it with the debt we already have?”

Chair Kyla McSweeney noted the

school projects underway are under budget, and holding off on this work is a possibility.

Rothermich spoke about the committee needing to decide on the direction it wanted to take — staying “in kind or moving to a greener air source or geothermal approach.”

Member Nancy Cavanaugh wanted to know more about urgency and timing.

Cavanaugh noted there is a lot of spending going on for the schools. In addition, she said the committee is looking at a very tight operational budget next year and is about to receive an “advisory” from the town on spending.

“A large segment of town is concerned about taxes and spending. [We] have to make sure we can afford a project and bring along the will of the voters,” Cavanaugh said.

The consultants advised not to take on a major project if the voters are not going to be on board with it.

Later, in a presentation about a 10year capital plan, Rothermich noted the other fiscal year 2027 requests would be a handicapped accessible vehicle for the 1822 special education program ($95,000); classroom desks and chairs at the middle school ($217,000); and technology including projectors, security upgrades, radio and camera replacements ($150,000).

A vote on the capital plan is expected at the next meeting on Oct. 9.

Barktoberfest

SportS Strong culture, huge roster boost HHS boys XC

By Chris Villani Contributing Writer

Hopkinton High School boys crosscountry coach Laura McKenzie was not sure what to expect heading into the 2025 season. But the strong, established culture of success in the program and a sizable roster has McKenzie excited as the season hits the midway point.

wants to come out on top in the divisional meet, and he can definitely do it,” McKenzie said. “He just gets faster and faster, but he really works. He puts in a lot of miles.”

Not far behind are senior captain Darian Leo and sophomore Matt Fitzgibbons.

“Those guys are doing really well,” their coach said.

“We have a really good culture on the team, and that’s due to the seniors and all the kids who came before,” she said. “They leave behind a competitive group who really wants to get better and wants to win.”

The Hillers did just that at the start of the season, cruising to dual meet victories over Dedham and Holliston.

“I am always a little bit nervous, because you never know what you are going to have talent wise,” McKenzie said. “A lot of the time it comes down to their desire to put the work in.”

Hopkinton has a whopping 51 boys on the roster, and 20 of them are freshmen, a number McKenzie called a “crazy amount.” The Hillers should be well positioned for success not only in the Tri-Valley League Showcase varsity meet, but also in the junior varsity and freshman divisions.

Senior captain Sean Finnegan won the first two dual meets of the season and has a chance to make some noise in both the TVL and the state divisional meet.

Hopkinton has a strong pack of runners who are capable of finishing among the top 5-7 spots on the team. Sophomores Lucas Arnold and Jack Cooper, along with Fitzgibbons, put in significant amounts of offseason training and started the season in top form and ready to race, McKenzie said.

Harrison Gu, Gavin Scott, Jack Heaton and Avi Ghosh are steady contributors in the Hillers’ rotation.

“Those guys are all within about 30 seconds of one another,” McKenzie said. “As the season goes, I think everyone is going to kind of step up and improve their times.”

McKenzie said Hopkinton is in good shape this season when it comes to the TVL.

“We want to win the league, and we want to win the showcase meet. Those are our two short-term goals,” she said. “We also want to do well at the divisional meet and better our position every year. That’s our developing goal for the whole season, but we will take it a week at a time.”

“He has some good goals, he really

Contributing Writer

The Hopkinton High School girls cross-country team is deeper this year than it has been in many past seasons, despite having a relatively small roster. Coach Jean Cann said the start of the season was focused on getting newer runners some experience after the Hillers graduated a strong class last year.

“We have a nice group, a nice pack,” Cann said. “We have more of a

pack that can run together than we have had in recent years, so that’s nice. We are still figuring out who can step into some roles of some of the girls who graduated.”

Hopkinton began its season with a win over Dedham before suffering a setback against Holliston. While the Hillers have numerous younger runners, a pair of senior captains — Chloe Tumbleton and Meaghan Burdulis — are leading the way.

HHS cross-country runners (from left) Darian Leo, Sean Finnegan and Matt Fitzgibbons pose after taking the top three spots in their Sept. 17 race against Holliston.

SportS

Last year, Pattie ranked fourth in the state with 684 assists and was named Division 2 all-state at setter. Earlier this month, in back-to-back matches against Division 1 Algonquin and Tri-Valley League rival Westwood, the second-year captain recorded nine digs and 28 assists, fueling a pair of 3-0 victories. “Gabby was essential in keeping the team’s energy up and maintaining focus during high-pressure moments,” coach Emma Sweetapple shared.

A captain and three-year varsity player, Zakharov mans the midfield for the Hillers. He recorded a pair of goals and an assist early in the season to help the team earn points in tight games and get off to a 4-1-1 start. “Tim also provides effective leadership on game days and at practice with hard work, support for his teammates and a positive attitude,” coach Garrett Sawyer shared.

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“Chloe trained a lot more consistently this summer, and she is super talented,” Cann said. “They are both very talented runners who could do very well at the individual meets if they have a good day.”

The state divisional meet this season is at Wrentham, which Cann said is a favorite track for both Tumbleton and Burdulis.

In addition to the two veteran runners, freshman Sana Kandasamy quickly established herself as one of the team’s top contributors. Junior captain Wafiya Syeda is another strong runner who improved significantly since last year.

“She put in some hard work over the offseason,” Cann said. “This is only her second cross-country season, she trained a lot more consistently this summer, and it’s paying off.”

Juniors Jillian Toran and Lila Heling have been running close together along with Syeda, Cann added.

“They try to run as a pack when they can and really push each other,” the coach said.

Maybe the most improved runner on the roster is sophomore Aroa Alonso, who knocked nearly three minutes off of her time on the home course at Hopkinton State Park. Megan Han, Audrey Evans, Keemia Ravoz and Isabel Walker

are contributors who have the ability to finish among the team’s top seven on a strong day. All of them have been showing consistent improvement as the season progresses, Cann said.

With so much depth, Cann said Hopkinton should be able to compete with some of the more top-heavy programs in the Tri-Valley League when the league showcase meet comes around. But the Hillers are also looking to continue to be competitive in their dual meets.

“We are hoping to give every op ponent a challenge,” Cann said.

HHS Athlete Spotlight

Athletes are selected after consultation with HHS coaches.

Gabby Pattie Girls volleyball Senior

Tim Zakharov Boys soccer Senior

Laura Wauters REALTOR®

Syeda

To submit an item for the Hopkinton Independent calendar section, email the information to editor@HopkintonIndependent.com. Submissions should be limited to 100 words and are subject to editing by the HI staff.

HerSwap at Marathon School Oct. 4

HerSwap is a community-wide tag sale event for women’s clothing, accessories and books, with proceeds benefiting the Hopkinton Parent Teacher Organization and The Herd. It will be held Saturday, Oct. 4, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at Marathon School. Donations may be dropped off at Marathon School on Friday, Oct. 3, from 4:30-7 p.m. Items must be clean and in good or excellent condition. Items not sold will be donated to local charities. For more details, visit the HopSwap Facebook page or hopkintonpto.membershiptoolkit.com.

Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk

Oct. 5

Registration is open for the 37th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, which is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 5. Funds raised are donated to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Walk features four distances, from the full marathon (starting in Hopkinton) to a 5K. To register or to support a walker, visit JimmyFundWalk.org or call 866-5319255. Registrants can enter the promo code NEWS for a $5 discount off the registration fee. All registered participants will receive a bib, medal and T-shirt.

Make-A-Wish Golf Invitational at HCC Oct. 6

The third annual Make-A-Wish Golf Invitational will be held Monday, Oct. 6, with Hopkinton Country Club as the backdrop for participants to help make wishes come true for local children with critical illnesses. The tournament begins at noon, and there will be prize competitions throughout the course as well as lunch. Prior to the competition, breakfast will be available at 10:30 a.m., along with a silent auction and raffle. The day will conclude with a cocktail reception, awards ceremony and live auction. For more information, visit wish.org/ massri/make-wishr-golf-invitational.

Coffee & Conversation with the Superintendent Oct. 10

The Hopkinton Parent Teacher Organization will host Coffee & Conversation with Superintendent Evan Bishop on Friday, Oct. 10, from 9:3010:30 a.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library’s Betty Strong Room. All are welcome, including children, for this casual get-together to learn about the HPTO as well as speak with the new superintendent. For more information, visit hopkintonpto.membershiptoolkit.com.

HALT Mushroom Walk at Fruit Street Oct. 11

The Hopkinton Area Land Trust is sponsoring a free mushroom walk on Saturday, Oct. 11, starting at 10 a.m. at the Fruit Street fields. Jonathan

Event Calendar Sponsored by HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Enter Stage Left Theater Auditions by Appointment: Children Will Listen

October 5, beginning at 5 p.m.

October 7, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Seeking adult performers of all ages and experience levels for Children Will Listen, a new musical theater revue featuring selections from musical adaptations of fairy tales and classic children’s literature (Into the Woods, The Secret Garden, The Lord of the Rings, Cinderella, and many more). RSVP at HopArtsCenter.org.

And Neither Have I Wings To Fly

October 9, 10, 11 at 7:30 p.m. October 12 at 2 p.m.

Set in 1950s Ireland, And Neither Have I Wings to Fly is a warm, passionate, and humorous drama about the tension between obligation and following one’s own path. Written by Ann Noble and directed by Paul Champlin.

The Haunt: An Outdoor Theatrical Experience | YMCA Outdoor Center

Friday and Saturday, October 17 and 18, and October 24 and 25, at 6, 7, 8, and 9 p.m., with rain dates on Sunday, October 19 and 26, at 5, 6, 7, and 8 p.m. See our ad in this issue for details.

Wicked Pickle: Pickleball Tournament and Fundraiser | October 25

It’s pickleball fun for all levels of play, teens to adult! A free beginner’s clinic will start the day. Beginner and advanced open doubles brackets will follow in the morning, and intermediate doubles brackets will play the afternoon. Join us for fun, food, music, raffle prizes, and more. Costumes are encouraged but completely optional. Medal in your bracket, win Best Costume, or just come out and enjoy!

Wicked 5K Fun Run/Walk

October 26 | Race begins at 9 a.m.

Lace up your sneakers, grab your (optional) costume, and join the spooktacular fun at Hopkinton Center for the Arts! Whether you’re racing for glory or just chasing good vibes, this festive annual fall tradition is the perfect way to support the arts and celebrate the season. The race starts and ends at the HCA (98 Hayden Rowe St in Hopkinton) on a mostly flat course with paved roads and groomed gravel trails. $1,000 in cash prizes awarded to top finishers and best costumes. The first 150 registrants score a Wicked 5K T-shirt.

Kranz, vice president of the Boston Mycological Club and a Massachusetts Audubon certified field naturalist, will lead this two-hour walk designed to explore the joys and hazards of the fungus among us. Space is limited to 30 people. Registration is available at hopkintonlandtrust.org.

The Haunt at Hopkinton YMCA Oct. 17-26

The MetroWest YMCA Outdoor Center in Hopkinton and the Hopkinton Center for the Arts are teaming up for The Haunt: The Carnival Comes to Deadwoodville, part of HCA’s Wicked Weekend. The spooky event will be held on various evenings between Oct. 17-26 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the YMCA (45 East Street). Less-scary tours for families with younger children will be held on Oct. 19 and 26 from 1-4 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit hopartscenter.org/thehaunt2025.

Friends of Whitehall Fall Cleanup Oct. 18

The Friends of Whitehall’s fall lake and trail cleanup will be held Saturday, Oct. 18, from 9 a.m.-noon. Participants will gather at the boat landing parking lot at Whitehall State Park on Wood Street (Route 135) and be assigned areas of trails and shoreline around the lake to clean up debris and refuse. Gloves, trash bags, tools, bug spray and water will be provided, along with coffee and donuts for volunteers. For more information about the cleanup and the Friends of Whitehall, which is welcoming new members, visit friendsofwhitehall. org.

Michael’s Run 5K at Town Common Oct. 18

The 26th annual Michael’s Run, a 5K run/walk to benefit the Michael Lisnow Respite Center, will be held Saturday, Oct. 18. The race starts and ends at the Town Common. On-site registration opens at 8 a.m., and the race starts at 10. The family event includes food, music, crafts and games. For more information or to register online, visit hopkintonrespite.org.

Lung Force Walk at State Park Oct. 18

Individuals, families and company teams will walk about 3 miles around Hopkinton State Park at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18, as part of the Lung Force Walk, a celebratory and welcoming event that provides critical funds for lifesaving lung cancer research, early detection initiatives and awareness. To learn more and register, visit lungforce. org/boston.

Fire Department Open House Oct. 19

The Hopkinton Fire Department’s annual Open House is Sunday, Oct. 19. The event, held at the HFD headquarters on Main Street, will run from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Residents — especially children — will have the opportunity to view demonstrations, learn about fire safety and tour the station. Refreshments will be provided, and Sparky the Fire Dog is expected to make an appearance. The Open House provides an opportunity for firefighters to focus on the educational theme of Fire Prevention Week, which this year is lithium-ion battery safety.

Baypath’s Paws & Claws 5K Oct. 19

The 16th annual Paws & Claws 5K presented by VCA Animal Hospitals, a fundraising run/walk for Baypath Humane Society, will be held Sunday, Oct. 19, at 10:30 a.m. at Hopkinton State Park. Participants can register as an individual or as part of a team. For more information — including about sponsorship options — and to register, visit baypathhumane.org.

1975 HHS Class Reunion Oct. 25

Hopkinton High School’s class of 1975 will hold its reunion on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m. at Anthony’s on the Green in Holliston. Tickets are $40 per person and includes a buffet. Checks can be made payable to Jill Sarafinas at 62 Hayden Rowe Street, Hopkinton MA 01748. For more information, call Nancy McBride at 508-435-3901.

Friends of Whitehall Author Talk Oct. 26

The Friends of Whitehall will host an author talk with wildlife ecologist Brad Timm on his recently published book, “Wildlife Out Your Window: Fascinating Facts About 100 Animals Commonly Seen in the Northeastern U.S.” The free event will be on Sunday, Oct. 26, from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Hopkinton Public Library and is open to all. The executive director of the Northeast Wildlife Team, Timm will share some of his favorite interesting facts from the book, discuss simple actions people can take to help wildlife and answer wildlife questions. For more information, visit friendsofwhitehall.org.

HPTO Tall & Small Pumpkin Ball Oct. 26

The Hopkinton Parent Teacher Organization will host the Tall & Small Pumpkin Ball on Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Marathon School gym and cafetorium. The event is for children age 4 through sixth grade. Pre-kindergarten through second grade will have the floor from 2:30-4:30 p.m., while Grades 3-6 will go from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit hopkintonpto.membershiptoolkit.com.

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.

Daniel Smith

It is with heavy hearts that his family announces the passing of Daniel Robert Smith of West Barnstable, beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend. Dan passed peacefully on Sept. 9 with his children by his side, after a sudden and courageous battle with cholangiocarcinoma. In the preceding days, he was visited by close family and many loving friends.

He is survived by his children, Adam (Emily) and Sonny Smith, grandchildren Sutton and Hadley Smith, brothers Steve (Sue) and James Michael Smith, and many extended relatives and friends.

Born in 1955 to William and Regina Smith in Centerville, he attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, graduating with a B.A. in communications in 1977. At UMass, Dan forged connections that grew into lifelong friendships and remained deeply involved with the UMass Collegian community. He went on to spend many years as a photographer and yearbook representative, earning respect for his dedication and integrity while helping to create lasting memories for hundreds of thousands of students across New England.

Even in retirement, Dan continued his passion for photography, capturing moments in nature and at school sporting events — and even the Boston Marathon — as well as countless moments of his family and loved ones, all of which are immortalized in his meticulously organized archives.

Above all, Dan dedicated himself to being a loving father and grandfather. He taught his children to be curious, caring, adventurous and full of humor, and cherished every moment with his two grandchildren, giving them his unwavering attention during his many visits and Facetimes. Dan also shared a special bond with his granddogs — he never passed up an opportunity to play endless fetch or subvert their parents’ training efforts by doling out extra treats. Throughout his life, he fostered a wide range of hobbies, including biking, skiing, golfing and trivia, and found immense joy in sharing his passions with others. Friends and family will remember him for his dry and witty humor, intelligence, thoughtfulness, generosity and ability to keep us all laughing. Dan’s spirit lives on in every photo he took, every trail he traveled and forever in the hearts and memories of those who had the honor of knowing him — as Dad, Boom-Pa and Dan the Man.

A public visitation was held at Chapman Funeral Home in Marstons Mills, followed by a private burial in the family plot at Mosswood Cemetery in Cotuit.

The family also wishes to thank the dedicated nurses and doctors at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center for their compassionate care and valiant efforts to treat Dan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Barnstable Land Trust, where Dan spent much of his time with his beloved granddog Bijou, or the MSPCA Cape Cod, whose work embodies Dan’s unequivocal love of animals.

Alexandra Ross

Alexandra Ross, 89, of Framingham, formerly of Hopkinton and Ashland, passed away Sept. 11 after a period of declining health. Born in Scotland, she was the daughter of the late Alexander and Jane (Flokhart) McLeod and beloved wife of George L. Ross. They recently celebrated 70 years of marriage. Alexandra worked as a certified nursing assistant at Bethany Health Care in Framingham for over 20 years. She was proud of her Scottish heritage and was a longtime supporter of the Scots Charitable Society and past chief daughter of the Daughters of Scotia Fraternal Order.

In addition to her husband, Alexandra is survived by four children, Lesley Fino and husband Richard of Ashland, Karyn Koulopoulos and husband Jim of Ashland, David Ross and wife Julie of Framingham, and Stuart Ross and wife Carla of Dartown, New Jersey, seven grandchildren, Ross Fino and wife Casey, Alexandra Carroll and husband Christian, Zachary Koulopoulos, Gabriella Ross, William Ross, James Ross and Alec Ross, three great-grandchildren, Summer, Clayton and Luca, and one sister, Betty McKinley of Musselburgh, Scotland.

A funeral service was held Sept. 16 in the chapel of the Matarese Funeral Home in Ashland, with burial in Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Scots’ Charitable Society, c/o Jeff Barr, P.O. Box 25, Glendale, RI 02826 or scots-charitable.org/donate.

police log

ARRESTS

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

Sept. 10

5:46 a.m. On West Main Street, Officer Eva Cann arrested a 67-year-old from Saugus on a default warrant arrest. Sgt. Cody Normandin made arrangements with Alltown Fresh for his vehicle and trailer to stay in the parking lot.

Sept. 19

3:30 p.m. The Ashland Police Department reported a person at the State Park on Cedar Street who was trespassed from the property. Officers Justin Cappuccio and Kyle Quinzani responded and stopped the individual in his vehicle at the park entrance. A 74-year-old from Southborough was arrested and charged with resisting arrest, trespassing and trespassing with a motor vehicle.

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.

Sept. 9

11:04 a.m. A Rough Rider Road caller reported receiving an automated message from the Hopkinton Police Department asking for information about her husband. She stated that there was no reason an officer would need to speak with her husband, and she did not give out any personal information. She was advised that it most likely was a scam.

11:10 a.m. Officer Benjamin Vaz assisted the Fire Department in responding to a report of a fire in a mudroom on North Mill Street.

4:28 p.m. A motorist complained of vehicles on Cedar Street turning right on red onto Main Street and blocking other oncoming traffic. Officer Nicholas Saletnik responded and issued verbal warnings for failure to yield.

5:43 p.m. Officer Kyle Quinzani

took a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident report on South Street.

5:55 p.m. A Main Street store manager reported theft by two females in a gray Toyota. Officer Sean McKeon responded and took a report.

9:16 p.m. A caller reported a disturbance on Grove Street. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded and placed one person into protective custody.

11:38 p.m. A caller reported a disturbance on Parkwood Drive. Officer Lucille Creedon responded, took a report and provided two males with a courtesy transport to The Spoon restaurant on Lumber Street.

Sept. 10

11:21 a.m. A traffic constable reported a child with a stepladder playing with lights on the Marathon School sign on Hayden Rowe Street. Officer Benjamin Vaz responded and checked the area with a negative find.

1:43 p.m. A South Mill Street resident reported an Amazon delivery driver went inside her home uninvited and

stated the package needed a signature. Officers Noah Buentello and Augusto Diaz responded. Holliston officers were able to locate the driver and vehicle.

3:14 p.m. A concerned caller reported that while she was out walking with her puppy on Cedar Street, a scruffy older male and a younger blonde male in a white car approached her and picked up her puppy without permission. The incident was logged.

3:18 p.m. A Westfield Road caller reported a man was threatening to steal his wood. He was yelling and throwing logs. Sgt. Arthur Schofield and Officers Sean McKeon and Nicholas Saletnik responded and took a report.

4:38 p.m. Officer Sean McKeon responded to a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident on West Main Street. No personal injuries were reported.

Sept. 11

1:15 p.m. A caller reported a female walking in the middle of the roadway on West Main Street. Sgt. Aaron O’Neil checked the area, and the person was gone upon his arrival.

1:15 p.m. A state trooper cleared a female from the roadway of West Main Street. Sgt. William Burchard responded and was to stand by to make sure she didn’t walk up Interstate 495.

3:34 p.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle crash involving two cars and airbag deployment. Officers Sean McKeon and Justin Cappuccio responded and took a report.

Sept. 12

7:47 a.m. Sgt. William Burchard and Officer Nicholas Walker responded to a motor vehicle crash on Cedar Street involving two cars and airbag deployment.

12:26 p.m. Sgt. William Burchard and Officers Nicholas Walker and Augusto Diaz responded to a motor vehicle crash on Hayden Rowe Street involving two cars and personal injury. A report was taken.

child was found and reunited with his parent.

5:29 p.m. A caller reported two juveniles on electric bikes doing wheelies in the middle of the roadway on Grove Street. Officers Matthew LaTour and Kyle Quinzani responded, caught up with them on East Main Street and advised them of the laws pertaining to e-bikes.

6:35 p.m. A motorist reported the hood of her car rose up and struck her windshield. She was not injured. Officer Justin Cappuccio responded and followed the caller into a parking lot on West Main Street.

9:35 p.m. A Hayden Rowe Street resident reported her dog ran out of the house during the fireworks at Hopkinton Family Day. Officer Aline Matos checked the area with a negative find. The animal control officer was contacted.

Sept. 14

11:23 a.m. Officer Noah Buentello responded to a dispute on Leonard Street where a landlord showing his house placed a tenant’s ferrets outside. A report was taken.

1:23 p.m. An out-of-state female reported a credible threat via Facebook messenger. Officer Robert Ekross assisted and the incident was logged.

2:54 p.m. A caller reported her vehicle was hit while she was at The Spoon on Lumber Street, and she did not notice the damage until she arrived home. The incident was logged.

8:00 p.m. A Wood Street caller reported a missing child. The caller was unsure if he was hiding inside the house or ran off. While on the phone, the caller stated his son was found and was safe.

8:04 p.m. A Rice Street caller reported his white dog got out of the house and was missing. The incident was logged.

Sept. 15

1:04 p.m. The town nurse reported an unwanted guest was filming her at Town Gall on Main Street. Sgt. William Burchard, Sgt. Aaron O’Neil and Officers Nicholas Walker and Augusto Diaz responded to assist and reported auditors were videotaping.

Sept. 13

6:28 a.m. Officer Eva Cann reported a damaged telephone pole on East Main Street. A resident in the area reported it had been like that for about a week.

9:51 a.m. A caller reported he was run off the roadway by a vehicle while jogging on Fruit Street. Officer Noah Buentello responded and checked the area with a negative find on the vehicle.

12:16 p.m. A Summer Street resident reported a possibly sick skunk on her lawn. Officer Robert Ekross responded, observed the skunk and left a message for the animal control officer.

12:18 p.m. A caller reported a tree split and was hanging over South Mill Street by Blood Pond. Officers Robert Ekross and Benjamin Vaz responded and contacted the DPW and Eversource. Cones were placed at the scene, and a detail officer responded to assist with traffic.

4:07 p.m. A child was reported missing on Hayden Rowe Street. Multiple officers checked the area, and the

9:34 a.m. A caller reported someone broke into a commercial property on South Street and stole heavy equipment. Officer Noah Buentello responded, took a report and was to check with nearby businesses for video footage.

10:47 a.m. A Nazneen Circle resident reported receiving a phone call about identity fraud from someone claiming to be from the Hopkinton Police Department, and the HPD’s actual phone number appeared. The caller was advised that it likely was a scam phone call and not to provide any personal information. The incident was logged. 2:33 p.m. A caller reported a student was hit by a car on Hayden Rowe Street at dismissal time. Sgt. William Burchard and officers Augusto Diaz, Noah Buentello and Benjamin Vaz responded and reported personal injuries. A report was taken.

5:48 p.m. A caller reported he was working on a C Street house, and the homeowner would not let him leave her property. Sgt. Arthur Schofield and Officer Sean Mckeon responded and took a report.

Sept. 17

8:43 a.m. A caller reported a deceased deer on East Main Street. The animal control officer was contacted. 6:55 p.m. A Constitution Court caller reported he was assaulted hours

police log

earlier in Ashland. Officer Robert Ekross advised him to go to the Ashland Police Department.

Sept. 18

4:36 p.m. Officer Robert Ekross responded to a motor vehicle crash on Main Street and took a report.

5:28 p.m. An employee at the State Park on Cedar Street reported a male who had been barred from the State Park was on the premises. Sgt. Arthur Schofield and Officer Justin Cappuccio responded, and the individual left before they arrived. A criminal application for trespassing was issued.

7:52 p.m. A caller reported a person kept driving up behind a West Main Street building and smoking pot. Officer Robert Ekross assisted and went to the individual’s residence to speak to him.

Sept. 19

12:28 p.m. An Ash Street resident reported a missing orange and black cat. The animal control officer was notified.

1:47 p.m. A caller complained of a young male in a silver BMW speeding up and down Teresa Road. Officer Benjamin Vaz responded, and the vehicle was gone upon his arrival.

3:41 p.m. Officer Aline Matos responded to a motor vehicle accident on Main Street and took a report.

4:16 p.m. A caller reported a hit-andrun motor vehicle accident on North Mill Street. The vehicle sped off. Officer Aline Matos responded and reported no personal injuries.

8:54 p.m. A passerby reported a male swinging a rod at motorists on North Mill Street. Officers Kyle Quinzani and Justin Cappuccio responded and checked the area with a negative find.

11:20 p.m. A caller reported a suspicious vehicle with three people inside in a West Main Street parking lot. The vehicle was there the previous night, and the caller was advised by police to call back if he saw the vehicle again. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officer Jennifer Manning responded, checked all of the parking lots and did not locate the vehicle.

Sept. 20

1:22 a.m. A caller reported underage drinking and marijuana use at a Mayhew Court home. The caller also stated that earlier in the day, there was a fight among three teenagers, and one had a black eye. She was to go to the station with her mother later in the morning. Sgt. Cody Normandin and Officer Lucille Creedon responded and did not see any activity from the outside of the house. One car was in the driveway.

8:36 a.m. A Parker Point Road resident reported hearing a loud bang and losing power. Officer Benjamin Vaz responded and found a squirrel had been electrocuted, which knocked out the power. Eversource was contacted.

9:56 a.m. A Wood Street caller sought advice about snakes getting into her house. A message was left for the animal control officer to contact her.

11:41 a.m. A Hayden Rowe Street caller reported a lost Android phone, which had been left on the roof of his car. The incident was logged.

1:36 p.m. Multiple callers reported a motor vehicle crash on Hayden Rowe Street involving a car and a motorcycle, plus an ensuing fight. Officers Robert Ekross, Benjamin Vaz and Noah Buent-

ello responded along with an ambulance and Milford Police.

5:28 p.m. A caller reported an aggressive solicitor on Stewart Street. Sgt. Cody Normandin located the solicitor, who had no permit, and advised him of the town bylaw.

7:18 p.m. Officer Justin Cappuccio responded along with the Fire Department to a report of an outside fire on Hunters Ridge Road.

7:29 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator on West Main Street. Sgt. Shannon Beloin and Sgt. Cody Normandin responded and stopped the vehicle on Ramp 7 of Interstate 495 and administered field sobriety tests. The driver passed.

9:36 p.m. Sgt. Shannon Beloin and Officers Justin Cappuccio and Kyle Quinzani responded to a report of large explosions on Downey Street and found youths on Sandy Beach. Some beverages were taken away, and the youths were advised to move along. A report followed.

Sept. 21

7:48 p.m. A caller reported an erratic operator on West Main Street. Officer Kyle Quinzani responded and notified the State Police that the vehicle got on Interstate 495 headed south.

9:55 p.m. A caller reported a motorcycle crash on Chest-

nut Street. Sgt. Arthur Schofield and Officers Brian Ziniti and Sean McKeon responded along with an ambulance. The driver was transported to the hospital. A report followed.

Sept. 22

8:00 a.m. A caller reported a motor vehicle accident involving three cars on Hayden Rowe Street. Officers Augusto Diaz and Benjamin Vaz responded, and a tow truck removed one vehicle. No personal injuries were reported.

11:35 a.m. A caller reported her ex-landlord was about to throw out her belongings. Officer Benjamin Vaz spoke to the caller about the civil dispute and took a report.

12:45 p.m. Officer Noah Buntello spoke to a Constitution Court caller about a stolen license plate and took a report.

1:40 p.m. Officer Benjamin Vaz notified Eversource about a hazardous low-hanging wire on Hayden Rowe Street.

2:38 p.m. A Lincoln Street walk-in reported a scam. Officer Benjamin Vaz took a report of fraud.

3:42 p.m. A walk-in handed in a Toyota key fob found on Cedar Street.

9:02 p.m. Multiple callers complained of people screaming and running on Country Way and a house party occurring. Sgt. Cody Normandin responded.