By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Marlborough – Conservation Officer Priscilla Ryder was unanimously reappointed to a three-year term by the City Council at its Dec. 21 meeting. In proposing the recommendation to the Council, Mayor Arthur Vigeant said: “She is a valued voice and resource for the Site Plan Review Committee, the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Planning Board, which are just a few among the many who interact with her office.” Ryder has been in the position since 1993.
During the Personnel Committee’s review of the recommendation, councilors all praised Ryder for her steadying influence on updating the city’s Open Space and Recreation Plan. Among the projects in the plan is the Panther Trail, a 26-mile ring around the city that connects existing trails including paths at Lake Williams, Ghiloni Park, Callahan State Park and the Mount Ward and Felton conservation areas of the city.
Another of her outstanding accomplishments was the creation of the Boroughs Community Trail Loop, a more than 30-mile area, linking Marlborough, Northborough, Southborough and Westborough through existing routes and new paths. City Councilor-at-Large Mark Oram said Ryder is always available for information and consultation.
