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Select Board authorizes plan to spend $200,000 earmark for industrial-zone planning and signage
Summary
The Town Administrator said a prior $200,000 earmark remains available through 06/30/2027 and proposed engineering and planning work for the industrial zone off Route 2, MRPC support for an economic development plan, and up to two electronic signs; the board authorized the administrator to execute procurements to spend the funds.
Town Administrator James told the Select Board that a previously awarded $200,000 earmark remains available and that he has signed the most recent extension, leaving the town until June 30, 2027 to spend the money.
"We can, in fact, still spend the money, and I've even signed an extension... We now have until 06/30/2027," James said, adding that this was the last extension and the town must act or risk losing the funds. He proposed hiring an engineering firm to scope infrastructure improvements in the industrial zone where Route 2 meets Baldwinville Road and asked the board to let MRPC (the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission) prepare an economic development plan and help pursue federal construction grants at no charge to the town. James also proposed purchasing up to two electronic signs to improve public messaging and provide an advertising revenue option.
Board discussion focused on location, wetlands and cost: members asked whether the plan covers parcels north or south of Route 2 and noted that engineering/spec development for the industrial area could cost about $50,000. One board member suggested adding an inventory of all town‑owned parcels to the scope if the cost allows. James said the earmark is flexible and can be modified with the state if priorities shift.
A motion was made to accept the Town Administrator’s plan and authorize him to execute procurements and contracts necessary to spend the $200,000 earmark; the board proceeded to discuss map locations and grant strategies. The board did not identify any immediate legal impediments to proceeding; the Town Administrator said he would update the board as projects are scoped and funding is committed.
