WEEKLY NEWS UPDATE – 05/13/25

TOWN ELECTION 2025 

Annual Town Election is next Monday, May 19th. Polls are open 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM at the Hopkinton Middle School.

There are two contested races this year: Select Board and Board of Assessors.

• Select Board (3 years, vote for 2)
  • Shahidul H Mannan, Candidate for Re-Election
  • Jeffrey Doyle
  • Matthew T Kizner
• Board of Assessors (3 years, vote for 1)
  • Peter M Mimmo, Candidate for Re-Election
  • Frederick Mayer

Read more about the candidates and the issues that are important to them: Candidates for contested races focus on water supply, town’s financial health (Article by Nick Schofield, 05/07/25)

OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION COMMISSION

At its Thursday meeting, the Open Space Preservation Commission addressed the issue of a stone wall in front of 61 Winter Street, erected by homeowners to replace a prior wall demolished by a dump truck, thought to encroach on OPSC property. While the wall itself is in the right of way, the supporting gravel fill behind it is on OSPC land. Following discussion, a motion to authorize commission chair Ed Harrow to seek town counsel and Select Board opinions as to whether the OSPC should request the gravel fill be removed or take no action was defeated. Harrow said he would approach them independently.

The commission subsequently discussed an invasive species management plan for Whitehall Conservation Area, following advisement from the Town Manager to obtain three quotes for any proposed work. The commission was unable to reach any consensus on a plan to tackle this issue, and adjourned shortly after the chair expressed frustration and left the meeting.  

OSPC meeting ends abruptly as chair walks out (Article by Mary Ellen Gambon, 05/09/25)

COMMISSION ON DISABILITY 

At its Monday meeting, the Commission on Disability conversed with Jon Lewitus, Director of the Parks & Recreation Department, about the department’s inclusivity efforts and proposed future accessibility improvements. Lewitus spoke about Parks & Rec’s efforts to expand its programing, with a focus on inclusivity, and to accommodate all interested participants. The lack of accessible parking and available seating were discussed as barriers for individuals with disabilities from attending Town Common events.

Additionally, the commission discussed an ongoing issue with delivery trucks using accessible parking spaces in town and potential ways to deter this practice. The commission also discussed inviting more guest speakers to future meetings, such as the new Superintendent, new director of student services, and SEPAC members to help foster its connection with the schools.

Commission on Disability talks accessibility with Parks & Rec director (Article by Mary Ellen Gambon, 05/13/25)