Town of Hardwick applies for MVP grants for solar and resilience projects

In the heart of Hubbardston, Massachusetts, the Select Board convened on April 8, 2025, under the warm glow of city hall lights, to address pressing matters that shape the community's future. The meeting was marked by discussions on financial updates, upcoming town events, and ambitious grant applications aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and emergency preparedness.

One of the key topics was the town's financial health, with officials reporting that spending for the fiscal year 2025 is on track, having utilized 73.6% of the budget so far. The police and fire departments are operating within their budgets, while snow and ice management has reached 79% of its allocation. However, concerns were raised about liability insurance costs, which are slightly over budget, prompting a potential review by the finance committee later in the year.

As the annual town meeting approaches on June 2, the board is gearing up for a budget hearing scheduled for April 21. This meeting will set the stage for discussions on various articles, including a significant $66,000 earmark from Senator Durant, which has finally been secured after extensive negotiations with the Department of Education.

In a bid to bolster community resilience, the board is pursuing two Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) grants. The first grant application seeks $561,000 to establish a resiliency hub at Gardner Road, equipped with solar panels, HVAC systems, and a generator. This facility aims to serve as an emergency shelter, ensuring that residents have a safe space during power outages or severe weather events. The second grant, in collaboration with the town of Hardwick, focuses on a feasibility study for solar arrays and generator replacements at local schools, enhancing their capacity to function as emergency medical centers if needed.

The meeting also highlighted advancements in technology, with the launch of a new website set for May and the rollout of an e-permitting system on April 16. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to streamline operations and improve access to town services, ensuring that residents can easily navigate municipal processes.

As the board reviewed the draft of the annual town meeting warrant, they outlined key proposals, including capital expenditures for essential equipment like a fire truck and a brush mower, as well as zoning articles aimed at attracting business interests to the area. The discussions underscored a commitment to fostering a vibrant community while addressing the challenges of governance and resource management.

With the meeting adjourned, the board members left with a sense of purpose, ready to engage the community in the upcoming town meeting and to continue their work in making Hubbardston a resilient and thriving place for all its residents.