By Melanie Petrucci, Contributing Writer
Northborough – Northborough Board of Selectmen Chair William Pantazis led a discussion of Warrant Articles that the board would be recommending for passage at the Annual Town Meeting Monday, April 24, at Algonquin Regional High School at 7:30 p.m.
Selectmen are allowed to make recommendations on any Warrant Article, but traditionally, at a minimum, they are expected to make recommendations on the Town Budget Articles because they are the fundamental financing of the town’s business. For the April 24 TM that included: Article 4, the Town Budget; Article 5, the Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Enterprise Funds; and Article 6, the K-8 School’s Budget.
Town Administrator John Coderre also suggested that the board make a recommendation on Article 43 which is the second phase of the Town Common project which the board has supported. This phase will approve construction costs. Articles 4, 5, 6 and 43 were approved for recommendation without discussion.
Pantazis asked if there were any other articles that the board wished to recommend and he suggested Article 47 which is the adoption of the Stretch Energy Code for Green Community.
Selectman Leslie Rutan said, “It’s an interesting thought as far as vision.”
Pantazis agreed and said “I think it’s the way of the future.” The board approved recommendation of this article.
Selectman Jason Perreault suggested Article 52 which is the zoning article for a moratorium on recreational marijuana, adding he thought that it would be a good one for the board to recommend.
Selectman Dawn Rand replied, “I understand what you are saying but I would like to hear the presentation [at Town Meeting.]”
Rutan agreed, “I do see your point, we really haven’t received a lot of information…but maybe by voting we are showing the community that it’s important to have the moratorium? It’s not conditional though.”
Pantazis was hesitant to vote to recommend this article without more information. The board ultimately did not vote to recommend this article due to of lack of information.