Country Auction to Benefit Ashby 250th Celebration Committee

Country Auction, September 10th at 4:00 pm, On the Common by Ashby 250th Celebration Committee.

Furniture, pottery, glassware, 10,000 baseball cards, prints, paintings, books, tools, lighting, fishing gear, sporting ephemera, automotive, Annalee dolls, household goods, quilts, linens, fabric, and much more. Preview 10:00 - 4:00.

HCB 7th Annual Car Show for Veterans

HCB 7th Annual Car Show for Veterans is on Sunday, September 4th at Allen Field, West Rd., Ashby, MA. Fun, food and music all day! $2 donation for spectators. $15/20 registration to show your vehicle. Gates open at 7:30 am. Rain date September 5th

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting June 1, 2016

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA June 1, 2016
1. 7:00 p.m. - Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
2. Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update
3. Selectmen Approve Minutes of Prior Meeting(s)
4. Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants
5. Selectmen accept partial settlement and issue full release on CDBG loan for 1009 Jones Hill Road 6. Selectmen formalize details regarding the position of Fire Chief, in preparation for new appointment: • Term of appointment • Job Description • EMT Certification • Any Other Consideration(s)
7. Selectmen act on Right of First Refusal notification resulting from proposed removal of the parcel shown on Assessor’s Map 8 as Lot 57, now or formerly the property of William and Susan Duffy, from the provisions of MGL Ch. 61B.
8. Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman
9. Assistant Town Administrator’s Report 10. Public Comments (if any)

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting May 4, 2016

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

May 4, 2016

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

2.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

3.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of March 31, 2016

4.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

5.      7:15 p.m. – Selectmen Open Pole Hearing

6.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

7.      Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

8.      Public Comments (if any)

9.      Adjourn

Annual Town Meeting, May 7, 2016 at 9:30 am

The annual Town Meeting will be held on May 7, 2016, 9:30 am at Ashby Elementary School. Follow this link to see the warrant.

Annual Town Election, Monday, April 25, 2016 from Noon to 7:30 pm

Ballot 2016 Annual Election

April 25, 2016 from Noon - 7:30 pm

MODERATOR, Three Years	VOTE FOR ONE
Nancy E. Chew
SELECTMAN, Three Years
Mark Haines
John Hourihan
TOWN CLERK, Three Years
Lorraine Pease
TREASURER, Three Years
Kate Stacy
ASSESSOR, Three Years
Charles E. Pernaa
NORTH MIDDLESEX SCHOOL COMMITTEE, Three Years
CONSTABLE, Three Years
William A. Davis
BOARD OF HEALTH, Three Years
Cedwyn Morgan
PLANNING BOARD, Five Years
Andrew Leonard
CEMETERY COMMISSIONER, Three Years
Rebecca L. Thatcher
CEMETERY COMMISSIONER, Two Years
PARK COMMISSIONER, Two Years
LIBRARY TRUSTEES, Three Years	VOTE FOR THREE
David A. Jordan
Anne P. Manney
Angela M. Jack
Barbara A.Thorpe

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting April 6, 2016

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

April 6, 2016

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

2.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

3.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of March 23, 2016

4.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

5.      Joint Meeting with Finance Committee regarding FY17 Budget and Town Meeting Warrant Articles

6.      Selectmen Vote on Special and Annual Town Meeting Warrant Articles and Vote to Close Special and Annual Town Meeting Warrants

7.      Request for Selectmen’s Annual Re-Appointment of Joe Mazzola as Veteran’s Agent for a one-year term ending April 30, 2017

8.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

9.      Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

10.  Public Comments (if any)

11.  Selectmen Enter into Executive Session to Discuss Strategy with Respect to Collective Bargaining with Police and Dispatch Unions, and will Reconvene in Open Session

12.  Adjourn

2015 Annual Reports

The 2015 Annual Reports are available online. The print version will be available at the Town Clerk's office and the Library about April 25th. 

Irene Salminen Scholarship Fund Application Available

The Irene Salminen Scholarship Fund application is available. The scholarship is open to all Ashby residents who have been accepted for admission to a program of higher learning at a school, college or university. Deadline is May 1st. 
http://ashbyma.gov/document/untitled/Image040116141929.pdf

Library Assistant Position Open

Library Assistant Position

The Town of Ashby is seeking candidates for the position of Library Assistant, 7-12 hours per week at the Ashby Free Public Library. This is a part-time non-benefited position and includes evening and Saturday hours.

Candidates must be reliable, flexible, able to work independently and as part of a team. Should possess excellent customer service skills as well as strong computer skills including proficiency with MS Office suite and eReaders. Experience with Evergreen is a plus. High school diploma required. Prior experience working in a library is preferred. College degree and/or experience working with the public is desired.

 Wage starting at $13 per hour.

Please send or email application letter, resume and two references by April 2, 2016 to:

Mary Murtland, Director

Ashby Free Public Library

812 Main Street

Ashby, MA  01431

mmurtland@cwmars.org

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting March 9, 2016

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

March 9, 2016

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

2.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

3.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of February 24 and March 2, 2016

4.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

5.      Selectmen Discuss Dumping on Taylor Road

6.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Peter Niall as Building Inspector for a one-year term from April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017

7.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Richard Hanks as Building Inspector Alternate for a one-year term from April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017

8.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Paul Lessard as Electrical Inspector for a one-year term from April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017

9.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Harry Parviainen as Assistant Electrical Inspector for a one-year term from April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017

10.  Request for Selectmen’s Approval of Building Inspector’s Appointments of Richard Kapenas as Plumbing and Gas Inspector for a one-year term from April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017and Gary Williams as Plumbing and Gas Inspector Alternate for a one-year term from April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017

11.  Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Carlton Mountain to the Board of Registrars for a three-year term ending March 31, 2019

12.  Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Krishnabai as Alternate to the Board of Registrars for a one-year term ending March 31, 2017

13.  Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Chris Erban to the Cultural Council for a fill-in Term ending June 30, 2016

14.  Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of John McKendry to the Cultural Council for a fill-in Term ending June 30, 2016

15.  Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on One Day Liquor License for the Fitchburg Rod and Gun Club

16.  Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

17.  Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

18.  Public Comments (if any)

19.  Adjourn

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting on February 24, 2016

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

February 24, 2016

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

2.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

3.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval of DLTA Grant Submission (Alan Pease)

4.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of February 10, 2016

5.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

6.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

7.      Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

8.      Public Comments (if any)

9.      Adjourn

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting January 27, 2016

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

January 27, 2016

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

2.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

3.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of January 13, 2016

4.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

5.      Request for Selectmen Chairman’s Signature on CDBG Grant Support Certification Letter

6.      Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on the March 1, 2016 Presidential Primary Election Warrant (4)

7.      Paint Stewardship Program Update and Recycling Certificates Update (Jack Pankosky)

8.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Subordination Agreement for FY10 Housing Rehab Program Participant (Beth Ann Scheid)

9.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval to Deficit Spend for Winter Operations (Highway Department)

10.  Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

11.  Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

12.  Public Comments (if any)

13.  Adjourn

Taxes Are Due February 1st

 A reminder FY2016 real estate and personal property taxes are due Feb 1st.  If you did not receive this bill or you have questions, please call the Tax Collector.  Bills are mailed 30 days in advance of due dates, and payments post effective the date of receipt.  With fewer USPS processing centers, payments mailed from Ashby can take 2-3 days for actual return delivery.  Thank you.

Nomination Papers Available for the Annual Town Election on April 25, 2016

Nomination papers are available at the Town Clerk's office. The last day to obtain nomination papers is March 4, 2016.

Nomination Papers are available for the following positions:

MODERATOR, 3 YEARS
SELECTMAN, 3 YEARS
TOWN CLERK, 3 YEARS                        TREASURER, 3 YEARS
ASSESSOR, 3 YEARS
NORTH MIDDLESEX SCHOOL DISTRICT  COMMITTEE, 3 YEARS
CONSTABLE, 3 YEARS
BOARD OF HEALTH, 3 YEARS
PLANNING BOARD, 5 YEARS
CEMETERY COMMISSIONER, 3 YEARS
CEMETERY COMMISSIONER, 2 YEARS
PARK COMMISSIONER, 3 YEARS
PARK COMMISSIONER, 2 YEARS
LIBRARY TRUSTEES, 3 YEARS     

Election on April 25, 2016

                   

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting January 13, 2016

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

January 13, 2016

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

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of December 30, 2015

3.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

4.      7:15 p.m. – Selectmen Open CDBG Hearing

5.      Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on 2 One Day Liquor Licenses for the Fitchburg Rod and Gun Club

6.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

7.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

8.      Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

9.      Public Comments (if any)

10.  Adjourn

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting December 16, 2016

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

December 16, 2015

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

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of December 2 and December 8, 2015

3.      7:05 p.m. – Selectmen Open CDBG Hearing

4.      Selectmen enter Executive Session to discuss the Physical Condition rather than the Professional Competence of an Individual or to discuss dismissal of Said Employee and will return to Open Session

5.      Selectmen Discuss Liquor License Fees for Calendar Year 2016

6.      Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on 2016 Liquor Licenses for:

v  31 Store – Retail Package Goods, All Kinds of Alcoholic Beverages

v  873 Roadhouse, LLC - All Alcoholic Restaurant License

v  American Legion – Club License, All Kinds of Alcoholic Beverages

v  Ashby Market – Retail Package Goods, Wines and Malt Beverages

7.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on Common Victualler’s License Renewals for 2016 for:

v  31 Store

v  873 Cafe

v  American Legion

v  Ashby Market

v  Camp Middlesex

v  Mr. Mike’s

8.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on General (Video Games) License for The American Legion for 2016

9.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2016 Class II and Class III Motor Vehicle License Renewals and accompanying Conditions for P&S Trucks & Parts, Inc.

10.  Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2016 Motor Vehicle License Renewals (including Class II Conditions) for:

v  B&Z Enterprises                                 Class II

v  G&M Automotive                              Class II

v  Tip Top Motors                                   Class II

11.  Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on Highway Union Contract

12.  Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

13.  Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

14.  Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

15.  Public Comments (if any)

16.  Adjourn

Ashby Police Department is Seeking a Full Time Public Safety Dispatcher

Ashby Police Department – Full Time Public Safety Dispatcher

Position: Full-Time Dispatcher

Salary:   $17.34 per Hour ($12.00 per hour during training)

Summary of Duties:

Civilian dispatchers work under the direction of the lead dispatcher and fall within the communications division under the supervision of the Chief of Police.   Dispatchers are responsible for answering and processing all incoming calls for Police, Fire, EMS, Highway, and Animal Control operations.  All 911 calls are received and dispatched through the communications department using a Computer-aided dispatch system (CAD). Responsible for the operation of telephone, radio, and computer related equipment as necessary following established procedures and policies.  Duties include conducting law enforcement inquiries, data entry, validation and modification.  Receiving and dispatching medical assistance calls including providing pre-arrival instructions.

Working Conditions:

Full-Time dispatchers are scheduled on a consistent 5/2 work schedule working 40 hours per week.   Shifts are bid by seniority as governed by the collective bargaining agreement, willingness and ability to work all shifts including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime are required.  

Qualifications & Entrance Requirements:

• Minimum of a high school diploma or GED
• Ability to work any shift including nights, weekends, holidays and overtime as required.
• Excellent oral and written communications skills
• Obtain and maintain a valid CPR certification
• Obtain and maintain E911, EMD, and CJIS certifications
• Computer literacy and basic Microsoft Office knowledge is necessary.
• Successful completion of a thorough background investigation.

Letters of interest and resumes will be accepted until the position is filled.  Preference will be given to those applicants with prior dispatch training and experience. 

A letter of interest and resume should be submitted to;

Ashby Police Department

PO Box 280

Ashby, MA 01431
Attn: Chief Fred Alden  

Or email to:  FAlden@Ashbyma.gov

The Ashby Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Holiday Events in Ashby

Holiday Open House at Ashby Free Public Library
December 5th, 10:00 -1:00 pm. There will be live music, arts & crafts, refreshments, and fun for all ages. Plus, SANTA IS COMING!!!!!, We are also having a raffle with multiple chances to win valuable holidays gifts while benefitting our community programs.

"The Chosen Lambs" at Ashby Elementary School
A dance interpretation of a beloved story by Max Lucado. December 5th, 7:00 pm

Tree Lighting Ceremony on the Common
December 6th starting at 4:00 pm followed by Hobo stew at the Congregational Church

Ashby Town Band Christmas Concert
The Ashby Band Christmas Concert will be held December 12th, 7:30-9:30 at Ashby Elementary School. Enjoy an evening of seasonal music by the Ashby Concert Band and New Player Theatre Guild Singers. (Snow date December 13th, 6:00 - 8:00)

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting December 2, 2015

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

December 2, 2015

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

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of November 18, 2015

3.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

4.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2016 ABCC Liquor License Renewal Forms  for:

v  873 Roadhouse, LLC             All Alcoholic Restaurant License                  

v  The American Legion             Club License, All Kinds of Alcoholic Beverages

v  The Ashby Market                  Package Store, Wines and Malt Beverages

v  E.C. 31, Inc.                            Package Store, All Alcoholic Beverages

5.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2016 ABCC Renewal Certification Form

6.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2016 ABCC Population Estimate Certificate for Seasonal Licenses

7.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on 2016 Motor Vehicle License Renewal and Class II Conditions Letter for Tracy’s Auto Body and Sales

8.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

9.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

10.  Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

11.  Public Comments (if any)

12.  Adjourn

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting November 18, 2015

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

November 18, 2015

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

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of November 4, 2015

3.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

4.      Presentation Girl Scout Troop #30170 for Gardening Assistance at the Town Hall

5.      7:15 p.m. – Tax Classification Hearing (Assessors)

6.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

7.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

8.      Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

9.      Public Comments (if any)

10.  Adjourn

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting November 4, 2015

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

November 4, 2015

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

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of October 21, 2015

3.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

4.      Request for Selectmen’s Conditional Appointment of Jesse Johnson as Highway Truck Driver/Laborer with a Probationary Period of 1 Year

5.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

6.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

7.      Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

8.      Public Comments (if any)

9.      Adjourn

New Ashby Book Published

The Ashby Historical Society just published "Images of America; Ashby", a collection of historic photographs of Ashby.

It is available at the book signing in the Library on Wednesday, November 4th, 6:30-8:00 pm or on the Historic Society's website.

Position Opening Full Time Firefighter / EMT-Basic

Position Opening

Full Time Firefighter / EMT-Basic

The Ashby Fire Department is seeking applications to fill the position of Full Time

Firefighter/EMT-Basic.

Position Description:  Performs highly responsible functions in the direct delivery of fire suppression and Emergency Medical Services.  Duties include care and maintenance of fire and EMS apparatus, equipment, tools, etc. and some care and maintenance of the fire station.  Also assists with fire prevention programs, public education, inspections and training for both fire and EMS activities.  Will be responsible for most EMS clerical duties.

More information.

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting October 21, 2015

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

October 21, 2015

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

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of October 7, 2015

3.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

4.      Request for Selectmen’s Consideration of Redemption of Foreclosed Property (Town Treasurer)

5.      250^th Celebration Committee Update (Murray Cox)

6.      New Energy Resource Committee Update (NERC Members)

7.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on One Day Liquor License for the Fitchburg Rod and Gun Club

8.      Request for Selectmen’s Appointment of Mark Haines as North Middlesex Regional School District Facilities Committee Representative

9.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

10.  Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

11.  Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

12.  Public Comments (if any)

13.  Adjourn

Real Estate Taxes Due Nov. 2nd

A reminder the next quarterly FY2016 real estate tax payment is due by Nov 2nd.  If you did not receive this bill or you have questions, please call the Tax Collector.  Bills are mailed 30 days in advance of due dates, and payments are posted effective the date of receipt.  Thank you.

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting on October 7, 2015

SELECTMEN’S MEETING AGENDA

October 7, 2015

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

2.      Selectmen Approve Minutes of September 23, 2015

3.      Selectmen Approve and Sign on Payroll and Vendor Warrants

4.      Formation of School Facilities Committee (Superintendent Joan Landers)

5.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Chairman’s Signature on DLTA Grant Agreement (Alan Pease)

6.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Chairman’s Signature on Comstar Ambulance Write-offs for $14,805.98

7.      Request for Selectmen’s Approval and Signatures on FY03 CDBG Grant Recipient Subordination Agreement (Beth Ann Scheid)

8.      Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any)

9.      Any Other Business Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chairman

10.  Assistant Town Administrator’s Report

11.  Public Comments (if any)

12.  Selectmen enter Executive Session to Discuss the Physical Condition of an Individual and will return to Open Session

13.  Adjourn

The Town is Seeking Sealed Bids for Surplus Equipment

The Town is seeking sealed bids for surplus equipment until noon on October 14, 2015. The equipment includes motor vehicles, a wood chipper and a generator. Follow link for more information.
http://ashbyma.gov/document/official/surplus-equipment-150928.pdf

Agenda for Selectmen's Meeting September 23, 2015

         SELECTMENS  MEETING  AGENDA

                                                          September 23, 2015

1.     7:00 PM – Selectmen Open Board of Selectmen’s Meeting.

2.     Selectmen Approve Minutes of August 26 and September 9, 2015

3.     Selectmen Approve and Sign Payroll and Vendor Warrants

4.     Discussion re: Paint Stewardship Program (John Pankosky and Bill Stanwood); request for Selectmen’s Signatures on Letter of Support for the Paint Stewardship Program.

5.     Request for Selectmen’s Signatures on Letter of Condolence for the Krapf Family.

6.     Request for Selectmen’s Approval for 1-day Liquor License for the Fitchburg Rod & Gun Club on 9/26/2015.

7.     Northeast Municipal Gas Pipeline Coalition Update (if any).

8.     Any other Business not reasonably anticipated by the Chairman.

9.     Assistant Town Administrator’s Report.

10.                         Public Comments (if any).

11.                         Executive Session for Discussion of Strategy with respect to collective bargaining.

12.                         Adjourn

Presentation by Ron Watson on Ashby High School in 1951 & Civil War veteran George A. Hitchcock

Recollections of Ashby High School 1951. a presentation by Ron Watson:Ron's teaching career began at Ashby High School in 1951. He has many fond memories to share of teaching, students, and coaching basketball at Ashby in the mid 20th century. Ron also edited the diaries of George A. Hitchcock both in its original form and in a later versions under the Titles "Ashby to Andersonville" and "Death has all he can attend to".  September 26th, 3:00 pm at Ashby Town Hall, sponsored by Ashby Historical Society, admission free, donations appreciated