Thursday, December 13, 2012

Agenda for Dec. 19th Selectmen's Meeting


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
December 19, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of December 5, 6 and 11, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll Warrant W23P in the amount of
$___________ and Vendor Warrant W24B in the amount of $__________
4. Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on 2013 Liquor Licenses for:
 31 Store – Retail Package Goods, All Kinds of Alcoholic Beverages
 American Legion – Club License, All Kinds of Alcoholic Beverages
 Ashby Market – Retail Package Goods, Wines and Malt Beverages
5. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Common Victualler’s License
Renewals for 2013 for:
 31 Store
 4-H Camp Middlesex
 American Legion
 Ashby Market
 Mr. Mike’s
6. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on General (Video Games) License
for The American Legion for 2013
7. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2013 Class II and Class III Motor
Vehicle License Renewals and accompanying Conditions for P&S Trucks & Parts, Inc.
8. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2013 Motor Vehicle License
Renewals (including Class II Conditions) for:
 B&Z Enterprises Class II
 G&M Automotive Class II
 Tip Top Motors Class II
 Tracy’s Auto Body and Sales Class II
9. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Police Union Contract
10. Selectmen Discuss Employment Agreement Renewal Letter from Police Chief
11. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
12. Public Comments (if any)
13. 7:45 p.m. - Selectmen Enter into Executive Session to Conduct Collective Bargaining
Sessions with the Highway Union and to Conduct Strategy with Respect to Collective
Bargaining with the Dispatch Union and will Reconvene in Open Session
14. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
15. Adjourn

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting, Dec. 5, 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
December 5, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of November 15 and November 20, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll Warrant W21P in the amount of
$___________ and Vendor Warrant W22B in the amount of $__________
4. Selectmen Briefing on Net Metering (Alan Pease)
5. 7:30 p.m. - Selectmen Continuance of License Application Hearing
pursuant to MGL Chapter 148 Section 13 for Flammable and Combustible
Liquids for Property Located at 603 Fitchburg State Road
6. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on License for M.B.
Realty Corporation c/o JC Madigan Inc.
7. Selectmen Discuss Liquor License Fees for Calendar Year 2013
8. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on ABCC Liquor
License Renewal Forms
9. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on State Contractor
Authorized Signatory Form for Bulletproof Vest Reimbursement
10. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
11. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
12. Public Comments (if any)
13. Adjourn

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Tree Lighting Ceremony on The Common

Tree Lighting Ceremony will be this Sunday, December 2nd at 4:00 p.m. on the Town Common.

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Selectmen's Agenda, Nov. 20, 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
November 20, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of November 15, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll Warrant W19P in the amount of
$___________ and Vendor Warrant W20B in the amount of $__________
4. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Police Union Contract
5. Request for Selectmen to Form a 250th Celebration Committee (Lillian
Whitney)
6. Cable Advisory Board Update and Request for Hearing Date
7. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
8. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
9. Public Comments (if any)
10. Adjourn

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Girl Scouts, Scouting for Food, Saturday, Nov. 17th


Ashby Girl Scouts, Scouting for Food
The Ashby Girl Scouts annual SCOUTING FOR FOOD is Saturday November 17th. This food drive to help local families in need relies on community participation.  Please leave any dry goods or canned donations in white plastic grocery bags near your mail box or the end of your driveway by 9:00am on Saturday 11/17.  Your local Girl Scouts will pick up the donations that morning.  If you prefer, dropped off donations are welcome from 9:00-12:00 at the Maja Hall/Square & Compass Club on Erickson Road.  Please consider supporting this wonderful Ashby tradition! Any donation is greatly appreciated!

Monday, November 5, 2012

Agenda for Nov. 7th Selectmen's Meeting


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
November 7, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of September 26 and October 24, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll Warrant W17P in the amount of $___________
and Vendor Warrant W18B in the amount of $__________
4. 7:15 p.m. – License Application Hearing pursuant to MGL Chapter 148 Section 13 for
Flammable and Combustible Liquids for Property Located at 603 Fitchburg State Road
5. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on License for M.B. Realty Corporation
c/o JC Madigan Inc.
6. 7:30 p.m. - Selectmen Hold Tax Classification Hearing (Harald Scheid)
7. Selectmen Update on Town Common Well (Mike Bussell)
8. Request for Selectmen to designate Alan Pease as Board of Selectmen Representative for
the Department of Public Utilities Hearing concerning Ashby’s Municipal Aggregation
Plan and to read the Prepared Statement at the Hearing
9. Request for Selectmen to Allow Unitil to Intervene in the DPU Hearing
10. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Request for Reserve Fund Transfer
#13-03 in the amount of $15,000 to Veterans’ Benefit Expense (Joe Mazzola)
11. Selectmen Discuss Dispatcher’s Unanimous Decision to be represented by the Teamsters
Union Local 170
12. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Notice of Voluntary Recognition of
Teamsters Union Local 170 as the Bargaining Agent for the Police and Fire Signal Operators
13. Request for Selectmen to designate Chairman McMurray as Selectmen Representative for
Voting a New Municipal Representative for NMRSD Collective Bargaining Activities
14. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Subordination of Mortgage for
CDBG Housing Rehab Grant Recipient (MRPC)
15. Selectmen Discuss Updated Funding BAN Models for School Projects
16. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
17. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
18. Public Comments (if any)
19. Adjourn

Election, Tuesday, November 6th

Presidential Election Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2012, 7:00 am to 8:00 pm at Ashby Elementary School

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Members Needed on Finance Committee


The Ashby Finance Committee is looking for members. The Fin Com is responsible for overseeing the town's budget and finances. No special certification or training is required. Meetings are held the second and forth Tuesdays except during summer months when we usually  meet once a month. During budget season ( February through April) more meetings may be required.

If interested contact Nancy Chew, Town Meeting Moderator at ncchew@hotmail.com or call5677      .

Monday, October 29, 2012

Trick or Treat Postponed

Trick or Treat in Ashby has been postponed to Saturday, Nov. 3rd from 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting October 24, 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
October 24, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of October 4 and October 10, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll Warrant W15P in the amount of
$___________ and Vendor Warrant W16B in the amount of $__________
4. Introduction of North Middlesex Regional School District’s New
Superintendent Joan Landers
5. Selectmen Discuss Proposed Payment Options from UniBank regarding
School Projects
6. Tree Warden Report on Unitil Town-wide Tree Trimming Request
7. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Request for Reserve
Fund Transfer #13-02 to the Emergency Management Expense Account in
the amount of $6,657.28
8. Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on Letter of Condolence to Linda
Mikkola
9. Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Alan Pease as Zoning Board of
Appeals Member
10. Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Justin Baer as Zoning Board of
Appeals Alternate Member
11. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
12. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
13. Public Comments (if any)
14. Adjourn

Monday, October 15, 2012

Candy for Main Street Donations

Candy for Main Street 

The Ashby Elementary PTC is collecting donations of bagged candy to distribute to Main Street residents to help ease their cost for trick-or-treating. Donation boxes will be in the lobby of the school and at the Ashby Public Library through Friday, October 26.

Sunday, October 14, 2012

Mason Road Paving to Begin Oct. 15th


Mason Road Paving

On Oct 15th the road reclamation will begin on Mason Rd from Heywood Rd to the N.H. line. During this process emergency & essential  vehicles (buses, postal, and road residents) will have access using caution. This process is estimated to take 4 days.

At the conclusion of the reclamation, paving is scheduled to start on or about the 19th.. Once the paving is started the road will be closed & reopened to traffic by sections. Due to the fact that the pavers haul trucks can’t go into N.H. the paving will start at the N.H. line and progress towards town. As a result loaded trucks will be backing in while empties are coming out. Unfortunately some residents may be inconvenienced but please, try and work with us and we’ll get the project finished as soon as possible. I apologize in advance for any difficulties to residents that this project may create. Sincerely; Bill Davis – Supt.  

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Flu Vaccinations

Ashby Flu Vaccinations, October 23, 2012 from 11:00- 2:00 pm in the Library. Other Locations in the Nashoba Boards of Health Area

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Ashby Pumpkin Festival, this Saturday

Ashby Pumpkin Festival:

Saturday, October 6th, 10AM - 4PM

The Friends of the Ashby Library invite you to join us at Ashby's 22nd annual Pumpkin Festival and Craft Fair. Come spend the day on the town common and enjoy the fall foliage while you engage in some family fun and find some unique gifts. There will be live entertainment throughout the day, food and craft vendors, games and activities for children, a pumpkin decorating contest, a tractor parade, and more. The Friends of the Ashby Library are a non-profit group of volunteers who support and fund the Library's educational needs. All of the proceeds from the festival support the educational programs at the Ashby Public Library.
http://www.ashbypumpkinfest.com/

Register to Vote

Last day to register to vote in the Presidential election is October 17, 2012.  The Clerk's Office will be open until 8:00 pm on that day for voter registration.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Truck Driver/Laborer Position Open


The Town of Ashby Highway Department is now accepting job applications for a fulltime Truck Driver/Laborer $16.00/hr.  Job responsibilities include:  operating trucks & attachments, general labor, and limited mechanical work.  Applicant must possess a Class A or B truck license with Air & General endorsements and a minimum Class 2B hoisting license.  Applicant will have to pass a pre-employment drug test & be enrolled in the Town’s drug and alcohol program.  Applicant must be able to work overtime when needed, including snow removal operations.  Interested parties may obtain a job application with general information at the Ashby Highway Department, 92 Breed Road, Ashby, MA  01431.  Please direct inquiries to William A. Davis, Highway Superintendent at 978-386-2424, ex. 26, M – F, between 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.   Applications will be accepted until position is filled.  The Town of Ashby is an EOE and AAE.

Monday, September 24, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting, Sept. 26, 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
September 26, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of September 12, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll Warrant W11P in the amount of
$____________ and Vendor Warrant W12B in the amount of $_________
4. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on UN Day Proclamation
5. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
6. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
7. Public Comments (if any)
8. Adjourn

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Result of Recount of Override Election

Result of the recount of ballots cast at the August 28th Override election.
Yes 516
No 511

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Job Opening, Accounting Clerk/Admin. Assistant


Accounting Clerk and Administrative Assistant

The Town of Ashby is accepting applications for the part-time, non-benefited position of Accounting Clerk and Administrative Assistant to the Police Department.  Duties include assisting Town Accountant with preparation of accounts payable, payroll, receivables processing, and maintaining accounting files.  A thorough knowledge of principles/practices of municipal accounting, financial computer applications and accuracy is a prime requisite. Police Department Administrative Assistant duties include bills and payroll submittals & tracking, electronic reporting for grants, data entry for firearms licensing, ordering supplies, filing and organizing and other clerical/accounting duties as deemed appropriate.  A background check including CORI check and finger print submission is required.  18 hrs./week during warrant weeks and 13 hrs./week during non-warrant weeks with schedule t/b/d.  Minimum two years of higher education preferred.

Send résumé & letter of interest to the Town of Ashby, Attn:  Jennifer Collins, 895 Main Street, Ashby, MA  01431.

Starting pay rate: $13.00/hr.  Deadline for applications: 10/04/12. EOE.

Monday, September 3, 2012

State Primary Election, Sept. 6, 2012

State Primary Election, Thursday, September 6, 2012 from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm at Ashby Elementary School.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Election Results


Result of Special Town Election

August 28, 2012
Total Ballots Cast 1027
Yes515
No512
Blank 

QUESTION 1.  2½ LEVY LIMIT OVERRIDE
Shall the Town of Ashby be allowed to assess an additional $ 159,439.67 in real estate and personal property taxes for the purposes of funding a supplemental appropriation for the North Middlesex Regional School District budget for the fiscal year beginning July first, two thousand and twelve?

Monday, August 27, 2012

Override Election, Tuesday, August 28th


Election, Tuesday, August 28, 2012, Noon to 7:30 pm
at Ashby Elementary School

Ballot Question

QUESTION 1.  2½ LEVY LIMIT OVERRIDE
Shall the Town of Ashby be allowed to assess an additional $ 159,439.67 in real estate and personal property taxes for the purposes of funding a supplemental appropriation for the North Middlesex Regional School District budget for the fiscal year beginning July first, two thousand and twelve?
Yes                                         No                  

The polls will be open at 12:00 noon and shall close at 7:30 PM.

 

Assessors Evaluation
of the Impact on Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes


TAX IMPACT of 2 1/2 Levi Limit Override 8/28/2012
Amount to be raised:
$          159,439.67
divided by the total town valuation:
$  282,400,824.00
equals a tax rate increase of:
$                       0.57
per $1,000
times the average residential valuation:
$          212,281.00
equals an average annual residential tax increase of:
$                   121.00
divided by the current average annual residential tax bill of:
$               3,486.00
equals a percentage increase of:
3.47%

Selectmen's Meeting Agenda for Aug 29th


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
August 29, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of July 20, August 1 and August 15, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll Warrant W07P in the amount of
$44,260.26, Vendor Warrant W08B in the amount of $48,227.79 and
Vendor Warrant W08B-1 in the amount of $4,975.61
4. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Chairman’s Signature on Montachusett
Regional Planning Commission DLTA Grant Amendment (Alan Pease)
5. Request for Selectmen to Award Fire Tanker Bid to Crimson Fire, Inc., d/b/a
Spartan ERV (Fire Chief)
6. Request for Selectmen’s Permission to Use the former Grange Hall (Debbie
Moylan)
7. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Chapter 90 Request
8. Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Joe Casey, Pat McPhee and John
Pankosky as Cable Advisory Board Members
9. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on a One Day Liquor
License for the Holmes-Curran-Bennett American Legion, Post 361 for a
Car Show at Allen Field on September 2nd (Rain Date 9/3/12)
10. Request for Selectmen to Call a Special Town Meeting
11. Request for Selectmen to Open the Warrant for the Special Town Meeting
12. Selectmen Discuss Possible Special Election Ballot Question and Whether
to Call a Special Election
13. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
14. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
15. Public Comments (if any)
16. Adjourn

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Override Election Information Sessions

Joan Landers, new North Middlesex School Superintendent, will be speaking at a community information session about the prop 2 1/2 overrride at the Ashby Public Library at 5:30pm 8/22/12. She will be available for Q&A. 

Ken Brown, Ashby School Committee member, will be available to answer questions about the prop 2 1/2 override at an information table at the Ashby Band Concert on Ashby Common 7:00 8/22/12

The election will be held Tuesday, August 28th from noon to 7:30pm at Ashby Elementary School. Absentee ballots are available from the Town Clerk until noon on Monday, Aug. 27th

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Video of Selectmen's Meeting

The video of the 8/15 Selectmen's meeting is now online. We are aiming to provide this service on a regular basis.
http://ashbyma.gov/Selectmen/bos-video.html

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Results of the Special Town Meeting Aug. 14, 2012


RESULTS OF SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
August 14, 2012

SPECIAL TOWN MEETING ARTICLES

Article 1. The motion was made and seconded to raise and appropriate, $159,439.67 for the
operating budget of the North Middlesex Regional School District, in addition to the sum voted under the
May 5, 2012 Annual Town Meeting, Article 11 for said operating budget, provided that no funds shall be
expended unless the Town has first voted at an election to exempt this expenditure from the provisions of
Proposition 2½, so called, and further provided that the Town of Pepperell and/or the Town of Townsend
also votes to approve and fund its proportional share of such additional appropriations.
VOTE: Yea 87   Nay 32

Article 2. The motion was made and seconded to amend the vote taken under the May 5, 2012
Annual Town Meeting, Article 10 for the operation of the Recycling Center and Transfer Station by
specifying the funding sources for the appropriation therefore, the sum of $31,814 to be appropriated as
follows: Recycling Center revenues: $29,310 and Retained earnings: $2,504 for the ensuing fiscal year,
FY2013, beginning July 1, 2012 and ending June 30, 2013.
VOTE: Passed

Monday, August 13, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting Aug. 15th


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
August 15, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of July 2 and August 3, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll Warrant W05P in the amount of
$__________, and Vendor Warrant W06B in the amount of
$____________
4. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on CDBG FY10 Agreement
for Housing Rehab/Septic Program Participant Ashby Case #12 (MRPC)
5. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on CDBG FY10 Agreement
for Housing Rehab/Septic Program Participant Ashby Case #13 (MRPC)
6. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Agreement for
Paramedic Intercept Services (Fire Chief/EMS Director Bill Seymour, Jr.)
7. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on State PrimaryWarrant
(4) (Town Clerk)
8. Request for Selectmen’s Vote on Final Municipal Aggregation Plan
9. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Highway Union Contract
10. Request for Selectmen’s Acceptance of the Resignation of Jessica Johnson as
Accounting Clerk and Administrative Assistant to the Police Department
11. Request for Selectmen to form a Cable Advisory Board for November
Cable License Renewal and Appeal to Citizens for Potential Members
12. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
13. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
14. Public Comments (if any)
15. Adjourn

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Special Town Meeting, August 14th at 7:00 pm

Below are the articles to be voted on. Link to the official warrant


In the name of the Commonwealth, you are hereby directed to notify and warn the inhabitants of the
Town of Ashby, qualified to vote in elections and town affairs, to meet at the Elementary School
Auditorium in said Ashby, Tuesday, August 14, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. to act on the following articles:
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING ARTICLES

Article 1. To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or
borrow $159,439.67 for the operating budget of the North Middlesex Regional School District, in
addition to the sum voted under the May 5, 2012 Annual Town Meeting, Article 11 for said
operating budget, provided that no funds shall be expended and no bonds shall be issued unless
the Town has first voted at an election to exempt this expenditure from the provisions of
Proposition 2., so called, and further provided that the Town of Pepperell and/or the Town of
Townsend also votes to approve and fund its proportional share of such additional appropriations,
or act in relation thereto.
Finance Committee action:   Approved
Brief Explanation: This article represents the additional monies requested by North Middlesex Regional School District over and above the proportional new growth and tax levy monies as voted at the May 5, 2012 Annual Town Meeting under Article 11. One other town will be required to vote the budget at the same level.

Article 2. To see if the Town will vote to amend the vote taken under the May 5, 2012 Annual
Town Meeting, Article 10 for the operation of the Recycling Center and Transfer Station by
specifying the funding sources for the appropriation therefore, the sum of $31,814 to be
appropriated as follows: Recycling Center revenues: $29,310 and Retained earnings: $2,504 for
the ensuing fiscal year, FY2013, beginning July 1, 2012 and ending June 30, 2013, or take any
action thereon.
Finance Committee action:   Approved
Brief Explanation: Under the May 5th2012 ATM $31,814 was appropriated, but the motion failed to
identify the source of revenue. This article properly identifies the recycle and retained earnings as the
source of revenue for this appropriation.

Friday, August 3, 2012

Last Day to Register to Vote for Override Election

The Last Day to Register to Vote for the August 28th Election is August 8th. The Clerk's Office Will be Open 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. on the Wednesday, August 8th.

Monday, July 30, 2012

Override Tax Impact

The tax impact of the override scheduled for an election on August 28th is available at http://ci.ashby.ma.us/override_8-28-12.html

Friday, July 27, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting August 1, 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
August 1, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of July 2, July 9 and July 20, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll Warrant W05P in the amount of
$__________, and Vendor Warrant W06B in the amount of
$____________
4. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on CDBG FY10 Agreement
for Housing Rehab/Septic Program Participant Ashby Case #12 (MRPC)
5. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on CDBG FY10 Agreement
for Housing Rehab/Septic Program Participant Ashby Case #13 (MRPC)
6. Municipal Aggregation Plan Discussion (Mark Cappadona, Colonial
Power Group Inc.)
7. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Land Use Agent
Contract (Alan Pease)
8. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on District Local
Technical Assistance Contract (Alan Pease)
9. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2 One Day
Liquor Licenses for the Fitchburg Road and Gun Club
10. Request for Selectmen’s Acceptance of the Resignation of Cheryl
Gilmartin as Police Matron, Effective Immediately
11. Request for Selectmen’s Acceptance of the Resignation of Joyce
Hopkins as Police Matron, Effective Immediately
12. Request for Selectmen’s Acceptance of the Resignation of Marilyn
Cronin as Police Matron, Effective Immediately
13. Request for Selectmen’s Permission to hold Ashby’s 22nd Annual
Pumpkin Festival and Craft Fair on October 6th with a Rain Date of
October7th
14. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
15. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
16. Public Comments (if any)
17. Adjourn

Monday, July 23, 2012

Override Election, Aug. 28th, Noon -7:30 pm

Override Election, August 28, 2012, Noon - 7:30 pm at Ashby Elementary School

The ballot question is as follows:

Shall the Town of Ashby be allowed to assess an additional $ 159,439.67 in real estate and personal property taxes for the purposes of funding a supplemental appropriation for the North Middlesex Regional School District budget for the fiscal year beginning July first, two thousand and twelve?


More information and the warrant.

Monday, July 16, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting July 18, 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
July 18, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of July 2 and July 9, 2012
3. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Vendor Warrant W56B in the amount of
$___________, Payroll Warrant W01P in the amount of $__________,
and Vendor Warrant W02B in the amount of $____________
4. Request for Selectmen’s Acceptance of the Resignation of Cheryl
Gilmartin as Police Matron, Effective Immediately
5. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Land Use Agent
Contract (Alan Pease)
6. Discussion regarding Comcast Cable License Renewal in November and
Appeal to Citizens to Serve on Future Cable Advisory Board
7. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
8. Public Comments (if any)
9. Adjourn

Saturday, June 30, 2012

Band Concerts on the Common, 2012 Schedule


Band Concerts on the Common

Wednesdays July 11, 18, 25 and Aug 1, 8, 15 and 22.

Big Band concert is the final concert of the season on Aug 22.

Music starts at 7:30.

Food and beverages including hot dogs, hambugers, sodas sold by different local non-profit orgs each week. Popcorn, sundaes and other goodies also available.

(July 3rd, Independence Day concert is at Allen Field)

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting, Mon., July 2nd


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
July 2, 2012

1.      7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of June 20 and June 25, 2012

3.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Gerald (Don) Phelan as Solid Waste Attendant, Employee-at-Will

4.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of David LaCross as Solid Waste Attendant, Employee-at-Will

5.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Consultant Agreement
for Management of the Town’s Municipal Aggregation Program and Energy-Related Services

6.      Request for Selectmen’s Vote to allow Town of Ashburnham Opening of Joint Procurement Bids for FY13 Highway Road Materials Bids

7.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2012 Common Victualler’s  License for the Community Council

8.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

9.      Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report

10.  Public Comments (if any)

11.  Adjourn

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Ashby Independence Day Celebration, July 3rd


Tuesday, July 3rd at Allen Field
  • Gates open at 4pm.
  • Chicken BBQ sponsored by Ashby Square & Compass starts at 5pm.   Tickets are $8.  Reserve your tickets by calling 386-5502 or 978-855-4571.
  • Food, games and prizes by local non-profit organizations.
  • Band Concert begins at 7:30.
  • Bonfire by Ashby Fire Department follows band concert. 

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Election Results


Ashby, Results of the Special Election

June 21, 2012

Total Ballots Cast 619
Question 1
VOTE
Yes
189
No
430
Blank


QUESTION 1.
Shall the Town of Ashby be allowed to assess an additional $460,940.23 in real estate and personal
property taxes for the purposes of funding a supplemental appropriation for the North Middlesex Regional School District budget for the fiscal year beginning July first, two thousand and twelve?

FYI Both Townsend and Pepperell have defeated their override as well.

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Reminder of Election, Thurs., June 21, Noon-7:30pm

Reminder of Override Election, Thursday, June 21, 2012, Noon-7:30pm at Ashby Elementary School

Friday, June 15, 2012

Children's Bird Walk, Saturday, June 30th

Bird Walk and Talk for Children, Saturday, June 30th, 10:30AM at Ashby Public Library

Do you or your children enjoy the songs of birds? Have you ever tried to identify a bird by the type of nest, color of their eggs, or their song? Now is your chance to test those skills or learn how!

The members of Ashby Conservation Commission are leading a Bird Walk and Talk on Saturday June 30th at 10:30 am at the library. With an interative slide show presentation, you will learn what local birds might be nesting in your backyard. Then lace up your walking shoes as we take a short walk to a local field to actively look for birds and their nests. This event is free and open to the public. Appropriate for children ages 4-12 and their caregivers. Popsicles will be provided after the walk.

Call 5377 or email friendsofashbylibrary@gmail.com for more information.

This event is the kickoff for the Summer Reading Program! Dream Big - READ!

The Friends of the Ashby Public Library

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting June 20, 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
June 20, 2012


1.      7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of May 23 and June 6, 2012

3.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on CDBG FY10 Agreement Amendment Case #9 (MRPC)

4.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on CDBG FY10 Agreement Amendment Case #10 (MRPC)

5.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on CDBG Grant Extension Request Form (MRPC)

6.      DLTA Grant Application Briefing (Alan Pease)

7.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Mark Archambault as Land Use Agent for FY2013 (Alan Pease)

8.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Wayne Stacy as MRPC Alternate Representative and Signature on MRPC Appointment Form for FY2013

9.      Request for Selectmen’s Annual Appointments for FY2013 (see list)

10.  Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Townsend Police Officers as Special Police Officers in Ashby for FY2013

11.  Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on Letter of Congratulation to Frank McCarter

12.  Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on Kopelman and Paige Determination Form regarding the Intermunicipal Agreement for Paramedic Intercept Services

13.  Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signature on Year-End Transfers

14.  Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

15.  Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report

16.  Public Comments (if any)

17.  Adjourn

Monday, June 4, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting, June 6th updated


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
June 6, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of May 23, 2012
3. Fire Department Service Recognition (Fire Chief)
4. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Fire Mutual Aid
Agreement for District 8 (Fire Chief)
5. Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Mike Bussell as Certified
Water Operator
6. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Highway Union
Memorandum of Agreement
7. Request for one day liquor license for the Fitchburg Rod and Gun Club for
June 16th and 23rd.
8. Discuss Town Administrators position
9. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
10. Public Comments (if any)
11. Adjourn

Selectmen's Agenda for June 6, 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
June 6, 2012

1.      7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of May 23, 2012

3.      Fire Department Service Recognition (Fire Chief)

4.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Fire Mutual Aid Agreement for District 8 (Fire Chief)

5.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Mike Bussell as Certified Water Operator

6.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Highway Union Memorandum of Agreement

7.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

8.      Public Comments (if any)

9.      Adjourn

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Ashby Meals on Wheels Drivers Needed


Do you have just an hour to spare once per week? Give the gift of your time to an Ashby elder!
Volunteer for the Ashby Council on Aging Meals on Wheels.  Drivers Needed  Mondays or Tuesdays late mornings for approximately 1 hour.
Call or email Kathryn Becker for more information: COA@ci.ashby.ma.us
(978) 386-2424 ext. 27 or (978) 758-1894

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Request for Proposals, Electric Aggregation


LEGAL NOTICE
  
Town of Ashby Request for Proposals

The Town of Ashby hereby issues a Request for Proposals from qualified consultants or companies to develop a program to aggregate the electrical load of electricity users within the Town, both residential and commercial, and, in consultation with the Mass Dept. of Energy Resources and the Mass Dept. of Public Utilities, develop, prepare, implement, secure regulatory approval and perform all services related to administering the Town’s Municipal Aggregation Program.

The RFP package will be available for pick up at the Town Hall, 895 Main Street, Ashby, MA 01431 as of June 8, 2012 or via emailed request to tabos@ci.ashby.ma.us  Separately sealed price and non-price (technical) proposals will be accepted at the Town Administrator’s Office, Ashby Town Hall, 895 Main Street, Ashby, MA  01431 until June 20, 2012 at 1:00 p.m.  Questions concerning this RFP must be submitted in writing to: Douglas Briggs, Town Administrator, Town Hall, 895 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Ashby, MA 01431 before noon, on June 13, 2012. Questions may be delivered, mailed, emailed, or faxed to 978-386-2490 or dbriggs@ci.ashby.ma.us

BOARD OF SELECTMEN
TOWN OF ASHBY

Solid Waste Attendant Job Available


The Town of Ashby has an opening for a Solid Waste Attendant.  This is a part time position.  Work hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month at the Ashby Recycle Center & Transfer Station. Pay is $14.28 an hour.  Candidates must be over 18.
Duties include monitoring and assisting the townspeople in trash disposal, recyclable materials separation, and collection of fees.  Must be able to lift heavy items.
This requires working outside in all weather conditions.  There are no heated buildings at the Transfer Station.

Application pdf
Application xls
or may be picked up at the Town Clerk’s Office at Ashby Town Hall or submit resumes to:

John J. Pankosky,
Solid Waste Superintendent
895 Main Street,
Ashby, MA 01431.
jjpank@comcast.net

Monday, May 21, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting, May 23, 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
May 23, 2012
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of May 16, 2012
3. Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Eric Rantala as Municipal
Groundskeeper
4. Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Wayne Patnaude as Cemetery
Maintenance Laborer
5. Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Gerald (Don) Phelan as
CemeteryMaintenance Laborer
6. Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signature on Year-End Transfers
7. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
8. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report
9. Public Comments (if any)
10. Adjourn

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Open House with the Women Farmers of Ashby


Open House with the Women Farmers of Ashby,  Thursday, May 24, 7:00-8:30 pm at Ashby Free Public Library

Sponsored by Women's Agricultural Network of Ashby (WANA)

Featuring:

- brief introduction to WANA
- showing of "Ladies of the Land" (note: film starts at 7:30, with a running time of about 30 min.)
- free raffle drawing
- refreshments and good conversation

WANA is a locally-based group of women who share a mutual interest in agricultural pursuits. We gather monthly for learning, sharing resources, and considering how we might best serve the Ashby community through special projects and activities.

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Correction, Override Election Thursday, June 21st

My apologies.  I sent out a post with the incorrect date for the override election.  The correct date is Thursday, June 21, 2012, noon-7:30 pm at Ashby Elementary School.  Complete override information is here

Overrride Election, June 21, 2012


PROPOSITION 2½ LEVY LIMIT OVERRIDE

QUESTION 1.

Shall the Town of Ashby be allowed to assess an additional $460,940.23 in real estate and personal property taxes for the purposes of funding a supplemental appropriation for the North Middlesex Regional School District budget for the fiscal year beginning July first, two thousand and twelve?

                        YES________________                     NO________________

Assessors Evaluation
of the Impact on Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes

Amount to be raised:  $460,940.23
divided by the total town valuation:  $282,400,824
equals a tax rate increase of:  $1.63 per $1,000
times the average residential valuation:  $212,281
equals an average annual residential tax increase of:  $346.02
divided by the current average annual residential tax bill of:  $3,486
equals a percentage increase of:  9.93 percent 

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting May, 16 2012


SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA
May 16, 2012

1.      7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of May 4 and 5, 2012

3.      Forest Legacy Update (Cathy Kristofferson)

4.      Request for Selectmen to Call Special Override Election on June 21, 2012 and Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on Warrant for Override Question

5.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Request for Reserve Fund Transfer #12-11 for Library Building Maintenance Expenses for $4,495.00

6.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Eric Rantala as Park Commissioner until the Next Annual Town Election

7.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Catherine Foster as Board of Registrars Member for a three-year term ending March 1, 2015

8.      Request for Selectmen to Award Emergency Standby Generator Bid

9.      Request for Selectmen’s Review and Approval of New Job Application Form

10.  Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

11.  Public Comments (if any)

12.  Adjourn

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Ashby Housing Rehab Program, 3 Slots Remaining


Ashby Housing Rehabilitation Program
The Best Deal in Ashby!

If you live in your home for 15 years, you owe nothing!

Time is Running Out……
There is $140,000 left in available funds. Only enough for 3 more projects. The grant expires on June 30, 2012 and these funds need to be spent by that date.

What is it?
The program is to assist low and moderate income residents to improve their home or apartment. Eligible improvements include: Chimney or foundation repair, Lead paint/asbestos removal, Roof repair/replacement, Storm window installation.


The maximum funding per project is generally up to $35,000. As long as you own your home, this is a repayment and interest free loan, based on a 15 year forgiveness schedule. It decreases 5% per year up to 15 years, and then you owe nothing!

Income Eligiblility: 
Example: 2 person household, maximum income is $51,400,
              4 person household, maximum income is $64,200.

Apply Today: 

Applications can be obtained on Ashby’s website online or at the Board of Selectmen’s office. Income information is confidential and will only be viewed by MRPC staff, who will determine eligibility.

For any additional information or questions please call Kevin Flynn or Ann Carabba at MRPC:
(978) 345-7376 Ext. 306 or Ext. 305


Monday, May 7, 2012

Selectmen's Meeting Cancelled

The May 9th Selectmen's Meeting has been cancelled due to lack of quorum. A Selectmen's meeting will be held on May 16th at 7:00 pm.

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Cemetery Groundskeeper Job Opening


Job Available:


The Ashby Cemetery Commission has a grounds-keeping /maintenance position available. Qualified candidates should have some experience with mowing, trimming and general grounds maintenance , a valid drivers licensee, be self motivated and able to work under the direction of the commissioners and or foreman. This is a part time position and will require up to 20hrs/ week.

Anyone Interested should complete an application available in the Town Clerks office

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Town Meeting Reminder

Just a reminder that Town Meeting is Saturday at 9:30 am in Ashby Elementary. Here's a link to the warrant http://ci.ashby.ma.us/document/selectmen/warrants/ATM050512.pdf

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Dispatch Regionalization

Thursday evening the Selectmen voted to move forward with the grant and regionalization pending grant approval.  The vote was 2 in favor, 1 abstain

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Dispatch Regionalization Forum

Dispatch Regionalization Forum will be held on April 26, 2012 at 7:00 pm in the Ashby Elementary School. There will be a Non-Binding Advisory Vote at the end of the Forum Meeting. Yes/No tickets will be distributed at the end of the Forum to be placed in a ballot box.

Monday, April 23, 2012

Town Election Today, Noon - 7:30 pm

Annual Town Election, Monday, 4/23/12,  12:00 - 7:30 pm at Ashby Elementary School. Ballot

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting April 25, 2012

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

April 25, 2012

1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting

2. Selectmen Elect Board Officers

3. Donated Cold Water Rescue Suit Presentation (Lunenburg Snowmobile Club & Wanda Goodwin)

4. Selectmen Approve Minutes of March 27, April 11 and April 18, 2012

5. Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Selectmen Member to Serve as Municipal Hearings Officer

6. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

7. 7:30 p.m. - Pre-Town Meeting (Moderator Nancy Chew)

8. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report

9. Public Comments (if any)

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Dispatch Regionalization Q&A on Wed. the 18th

Selectmen Chairman Peter McMurray will be at Town Hall on Wednseday, April 18th, from 6:30 p.m. on to answer any questions regarding Dispatch Regionalization.

Saturday, April 14, 2012

Ashby American Legion Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Allen Field on West Rd., Sunday, April 15th, 2:00pm Sharp
Bad weather alternate will be; 4/22/2012


The Holmes, Curran, Bennett Post 361 Ashby American Legion will be hosting our annual “Easter Egg Hunt”. All Children from town that are 10 years old and under are welcome. There will be Easter Baskets, Prizes, gift certificates and candy bags for all children who attend!

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Annual Town Meeting Warrant Available

The Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting to be held May 5th at 9:30 am in Ashby Elementary School is available at http://ci.ashby.ma.us/document/selectmen/warrants/ATM050512.pdf

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting April 11, 2012

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

April 11, 2012

1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting

2. Selectmen Approve Minutes of March 28, 2012

3. FY13 Health Insurance Renewal Rates (Lively Insurance Brokerage and Treasurer)

4. Request for Selectmen’s Annual Appointment of Joe Mazzola as Veteran’s Agent for a one-year term ending April 30, 2013

5. Request for Selectmen’s Vote to Authorize the Fire Department under MGL Chapter 48 §59A to Aid other Municipalities

6. Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on Special and Annual Town Meeting Warrant Masters (5)

7. Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on Administrative Consent Order for Town Common Well

8. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

9. Assistant to the Board of Selectmen’s Report

10. Public Comments (if any)

11. Adjourn

Last Day to Register to Vote at Town Meeting

The last day to register to vote at the Annual Town Town Meeting is Tuesday, April 17, 2012. The Town Clerk’s Office will be open 9:00 am - 8:00 pm. on 4/17/2012

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Dispatch Regionalization Forum

A Dispatch Regionalization Forum will be held on April 26, 2012 at 7:00 pm in the Ashby Elementary School.

Monday, April 2, 2012

2011 Town Reports are Available

Follow the link for the Town Reports online http://ci.ashby.ma.us/clerk/treport/report11/index2011.html

We'll let you know when print copies are available

Ashby Elementary Spring Fair

Ashby Elementary Spring Fair at Squannacook Elementary, Saturday, April 28th 9 am - 3 pm

We have over 45 vendors and crafters, raffles and silent auction, lunch, guests for the kids as well as free kite making. Kid's room with games and prizes. Proceeds to benefit our Ashby school flooring project.

Squannacook Elementary (behind the police station and library on rt 13) in Townsend. Questions call Susan at 7572

American Legion Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Allen Field on West Rd., Sunday, April 15th, 2:00pm Sharp
Bad weather alternate will be; 4/22/2012


The Holmes, Curran, Bennett Post 361 Ashby American Legion will be hosting our annual “Easter Egg Hunt”. All Children from town that are 10 years old and under are welcome. There will be Easter Baskets, Prizes, gift certificates and candy bags for all children who attend!

Call the Post at 7977 with any questions. Someone will return your call as soon as possible.