Town explores educational partnership and reimbursement policies with Anna Maria College

In a recent meeting held by the Select Board of Northborough, Massachusetts, discussions centered around enhancing educational opportunities for town employees and a proposed tax increment financing (TIF) agreement with Saint Gobain. The meeting, which took place on July 15, 2025, highlighted the town's commitment to professional development and economic growth.

One of the primary topics was the potential partnership with Anna Maria College to provide educational programs for town employees. Board members expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, emphasizing the importance of making educational resources accessible to staff across various departments, particularly in public safety and health services. The discussions included details about tuition costs and the possibility of discounts for municipal employees. It was noted that while the town would primarily cover tuition, additional costs related to certification exams might not be included.

The board also addressed the need for ongoing communication between the town and the college to ensure that the programs offered align with the specific needs of the community. This partnership aims to support employees seeking further education and training, thereby enhancing the overall skill set within the town's workforce.

In addition to educational initiatives, the meeting featured a presentation from representatives of Saint Gobain regarding their TIF proposal. The company aims to secure financial incentives to support its operations in Northborough. The board welcomed the proposal, indicating a willingness to explore how the TIF could benefit both the company and the local economy.

The discussions reflect Northborough's proactive approach to workforce development and economic collaboration. By investing in employee education and fostering partnerships with local businesses, the town aims to enhance its services and support community growth. As the board moves forward, the next steps will involve finalizing the memorandum of understanding with Anna Maria College and further evaluating the TIF proposal from Saint Gobain.