By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Marlborough – Throughout his three terms in office, Marlborough has experienced significant economic growth, Mayor Arthur Vigeant noted in a constituent newsletter recently distributed throughout the city. Leading companies like TJX, GE Healthcare, Hologic, Boston Scientific and most recently, Whole Foods corporate headquarters, moved to the city to expand their operations, he stated.
These relocations created 6,000 new jobs and filled more than two million square feet of vacant commercial space. The growth led to many job opportunities for residents, generated new tax revenue, keeping the residential tax rate stable. With more people working in Marlborough, local restaurants and stores generated more business which contributed to additional tax revenue.
The completion of a $3 million renovation of Ward Park was celebrated by residents throughout the city, praising the improved ball field surface, new state park, renovated basketball and tennis courts, a bocce court, horseshoe pits and walking trails.
“Since my first day as Mayor, I have made it a priority to improve park and playground facilities across the city,” said Vigeant. “These improvements include a revitalized Memorial Beach, Stevens Playground improvements, a total renovation of Ward Park and projects at Ghiloni Park and the Pappas Playground.”
Also worthy of note are the Mayor’s Substance Use Prevention Coalition and the construction of the $160 million Apex Center of New England that includes new hotels, restaurants, an entertainment center with indoor cart racing, a trampoline park, laser tag, and a new gym.
In addition to the basic services provided residents – curbside trash and recycling pick-up – the mayor listed additional services available, including a pill disposal, a prescription medicine drop-off box in the Police Station lobby, and free mattress pickup. Other offerings include a Public Service Internship Program for college students, a museum pass program through the Marlborough Public Library, and the Senior Citizen Property Tax work-off program, which allows seniors over the age of 60 to perform services in exchange for a $1,000 reduction in their property tax.
