MARLBOROUGH – The first “Chat and Chew” with Mayor J. Christian Dumais on Saturday, Feb. 24, drew more than 80 residents to the senior center.
Members of the Lions Club provided the “chew” portion of the event, offering a variety of breakfast sandwiches, coffee cake, fruit and beverages.
“Everyone’s chipped in,” said Maureen Power, club treasurer who helped coordinate the breakfast. “When [Chief of Staff Ryan Egan] called, we said yes.”
After the “chew” came the “chat” with the mayor. After thanking the Lions and the senior center, he provided some updates on several projects, including a subcommittee that is being formed to revive plans for the West Street fire station. He also said the city is working with the state on possibly building a new school to help alleviate the space crunch with the city’s schools.
The boardwalk at Lake Williams is scheduled to open (weather permitting) sometime in April, and the latest newsletter is now available, although not in a print format (for those not having a computer, they can go to Marlborough Public Library to have one printed out).
Dumais also said that applications are being accepted for the senior tax write off program, and the city is working on possible locations for a dog park. The city recently hired three new police officers, and three more are attending the academy.
Dumais also provided an update on adding a communications/special projects director. His office is working with the City Council to iron out differences discussed during the council’s Finance Committee meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 21.
“I think that position is needed,” he said. “The department heads are maxed out.”
Should the position be approved, the director would oversee the municipal website and social media accounts, as well as the newsletter.
Dumais also fielded questions on a ban on plastic bags and the ongoing rodent problem.
The “Chat and Chew” will be a regular feature of the mayor’s mobile office.
