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Consultant presents updated grant‑matrix; board asks staff to return with a specific proposal
Summary
Capital Strategic Solutions reviewed a grant‑prioritization matrix and recommended focusing on two top project areas — 48 Gardner Road facilities and road/bridge infrastructure — while offering on‑call grant support; the board requested a more specific proposal before committing further town funds.
Jen Thompson of Capital Strategic Solutions presented an update on a grant prioritization matrix the firm prepared for the town. The matrix, developed using a prior workshop and town planning documents, ranks projects and matches them to potential federal, state and private funding opportunities.
Thompson told the board the firm’s review identified two top priority areas for Hubbardston: improvements related to 48 Gardner Road (including ADA upgrades and possible USDA, HUD and CDBG funding) and major road, bridge and infrastructure work (MassWorks, FHWA bridge programs, EPA SRF programs). She noted other recurring priorities: ADA compliance in town buildings, senior center expansion, library elevator and walking trails.
Thompson described Capital Strategic Solutions’ typical retainer structure: the town would pay only for services it uses (an on‑call arrangement rather than a standing retainer) and the firm would notify the town when opportunities arise that align with its priority list. Select Board members discussed which priorities the town should assign the firm to monitor; Town Administrator Nate emphasized that the town has $10,000 in town meeting‑approved funds meant for grant support and that the board should decide how best to get return on that investment. Thompson said the fall season usually brings renewed federal and transportation program solicitations.
Select Board members suggested focusing firm attention on safe‑routes and roadway connections linking downtown corridors, and on 48 Gardner Road feasibility and partnerships. Heather Monroe asked about the firm’s success rate; Thompson estimated roughly 85% for state grants and lower (roughly 65%) for federal grants, while noting those are ballpark figures and results vary by program’s competitiveness and the amount of staff time required.
No formal vote was taken. Board members asked staff to return with a narrower proposal and, if a contract is recommended, a clearer cost breakdown and scope of work before approving additional funds.
