By Valerie Franchi, Contributing Writer
Westborough – The committee tasked with reviewing Westborough’s Town Charter presented their recommended changes and additions to the Board of Selectmen at its Jan. 26 meeting. The recommendations will be put forth in three articles at the upcoming Annual Town Meeting (ATM) Saturday, March 12.
Robert Deysher, chair of the Charter Review Committee, presented a summary of the recommendations to the board, which ranged from minor “housekeeping activity” to broader policy changes. One of the more substantial changes would be to require the town manager, chief of police, fire chief and director of the Department of Public Works to be residents of Westborough or be required to relocate to Westborough within one year of hiring. A grandfather clause would allow for current town employees to be allowed to remain non-residents.
Selectman Denny Drewry said he “strongly opposed” this change, labeled Sub-article E of Article 18.
“This would limit the ability to hire the most qualified person for these positions,” he said.
Selectmen Chair George Barrette added that this issue has been “going on and on and on” and should be brought before the town at the ATM “to vote and get on with it.”
“The purpose of [Sub-article] E is to have a thoughtful discussion on this,” he said.
Other changes would reorganize the town’s appointed positions under the town manager, giving him or her the power to appoint the recreation director, Council on Aging director, health director, and Youth and Family Services director. These positions would also report to the town manager.
In other business, selectman approved a new two-sided digital billboard at 165 Flanders Road on the property of Cumberland Farms near the Mass. Turnpike. Jim Lack, president of RSA Media, explained that the billboard is intended for turnpike travelers and would benefit the town in a number of ways. Most importantly, it will provide an emergency communication network for amber alerts, traffic alerts and messages from the police and fire departments.
Lack also noted that five hours a day, each side of the billboard will be dedicated for civic uses, to promote community events.
Selectman Ian Johnson added that “it is a great location to advertise for Westborough” and hopefully would help to attract businesses and residents to the town.
