Southbridge, Massachusetts Development News
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Southbridge Town Council Meeting - 7/6/26
Published: Jul 6, 2026
Southbridge Council Confirms Appointments and Re-appointments to Various Boards and Committees
The town council confirmed the re-appointment of several individuals to various town positions and committees. Sharon Morsette was re-appointed as recording clerk. Maline Bonades was confirmed as the municipal hearing officer, handling non-criminal dispositions. John Daniel was re-appointed as the town delegate to the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Committee. Joanne Somyong was re-appointed as interim treasurer collector. Virginia Rafo and Luise Majuski were re-appointed to the Council on Aging. Dr. Travis Gagan was appointed to the Board of Health. Lane D. Wandelier was re-appointed to the Liquor Licensing Board. Arno was appointed as an alternate member to the Planning Board. Olivia Melroy was appointed to the Economic Development Commission as a non-resident member. The council also voted to confirm the establishment of a special revenue account for community gardens.
Southbridge Town Council Approves Multiple Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Transfers
The town council discussed and approved several fiscal year 2026 transfer requests between accounts to balance budgets and cover expenses, including significant transfers for the police and fire departments, as well as smaller adjustments for community center, health department, and recreation activities. A notable discussion surrounded a $357,342 transfer to the stabilization fund from salary accounts for police and fire departments to balance collective bargaining agreements. The council also approved a $100,000 transfer for compost from sewer operations and collection accounts to cover sewer repair and maintenance of equipment, and a $49,000 transfer from sewer operations to compost. Additionally, transfers were approved for sewer repair and maintenance, plant capital maintenance, and natural gas costs. A complex discussion led to the approval of a $5,600 transfer from council reserve to ambulance billing services, with a 7-2 vote after debate about contract disputes with ComstStar and FFR. Finally, $187,000 was transferred from sewer operations and sewer reserve for compost, and $15,000 for sewer repair and maintenance.
Community Gardens Fund Established by Southbridge Town Council
The town council approved the establishment of a special revenue account, the "Community Gardens Fund," in accordance with state law, to manage donations and expenditures for town community gardens. This fund will be used for installation, operation, maintenance, repair, and expansion of the gardens, including equipment, supplies, and utilities, without requiring further appropriation by the council for each expense.
Southbridge Council Approves Contract Extensions and Agreements for Public Works and Community Programs
The town council discussed and approved multiple contract extensions and agreements related to public works projects and community services. Contract extensions were approved for the River Crane Street phase 1 construction and East Main Street construction, both with AF Amarillo, to be completed by July 31st, 2026. An agreement with Zen City for Civil Space Story Board for $4,800 was approved using economic development and planning funds. An amendment to the CDBG fiscal year 22-23 grant was approved to allow for fund reallocation and optimum use by September 30th, 2026. An increase in the scope of the North Street construction project was approved to include ADA ramps, improved driveway aprons, and crosswalks using CDBG fiscal year 24 funds, not to exceed $50,000. An extension to the CDBG fiscal year 24 contract was also approved through September 30th, 2026. Finally, an agreement with the Tri-Community YMCA for summer 2026 pool programming was approved.
Southbridge Council Addresses Governance, Rules, and 39 Elm Street Property
The town council engaged in several discussions regarding governance, rules, and administrative processes. The council voted to approve the town council rules and regulations, though two members voted against it, suggesting it be sent to a committee first. The town manager provided an update on the status of collective bargaining agreements, particularly with firefighters, emphasizing productive negotiations. The council also addressed the acquisition and future use of the property at 39 Elm Street, with detailed explanations provided regarding its purchase, potential uses, and funding considerations. Discussions also touched on the importance of local democracy, resident participation, and the need for regular updates from boards and departments. The role of the town manager in interacting with town officers and employees was reiterated based on the town charter.
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The Southbridge News archive
Southbridge Conservation Commission Meeting: 7-9-2026
Southbridge Planning Board & Special Permit Granting Authority - 7/8/26
Southbridge Business Partnership June 24 Cohasse Golf Club.
Bylaw Review Committee - 7/2/26
JEL Aaron Caplan the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
A Joint Planning and Development Subcommittee & Town Council Meeting - 6/25/26
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