Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Theft And Security topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Trails Committee approves tool replacements and weighs security after shed break‑in
Summary
After thieves broke into the Trails Committee tool shed and stole battery‑powered equipment, the committee discussed deterrents (solar cameras, alarms, bolted steel box) and voted unanimously to authorize replacement purchases and supplies totaling roughly $1,600 in items plus a bench and outreach materials, drawing from committee funds.
The Town of Southborough Trails Committee voted unanimously on June 25 to authorize committee chair Cat McKe to purchase replacements and supplies after a recent break‑in at the trail tool shed.
Cat McKe told members the shed was broken into around June 12, the door handle ripped off and the padlock removed; battery‑powered tools including a cordless drill, a small chainsaw, a hedge trimmer and other equipment were taken. She estimated the stolen power tools’ value at roughly $500 and said the committee filed a police report.
Committee members discussed responses ranging from low‑cost solar wildlife cameras with SD storage to motion alarms and bolting a steel security box to the shed floor. Larry Samberg, a visiting guest, described his experience with a small solar wildlife camera that records to an SD card and said the devices are inexpensive and low‑maintenance. Members also discussed using DPW facilities for storage of larger gas‑powered equipment and the logistical and safety concerns around storing gasoline.
To maintain trail work capacity, the chair presented a recommended purchase list for one‑for‑one replacements and a few additional items (extra batteries, a 6" battery chainsaw, a portable gas trimmer‑mower option for rough terrain, pop‑up tent, tables and a banner for outreach). The line‑item supplies subtotal was roughly $1,600; with a bench and outreach materials the committee estimated total near $3,000 if all recommended items are purchased. Members noted the committee will pay applicable sales tax from personal reimbursements or other arrangements; town policy will not cover sales tax on these purchases.
A member moved to authorize the expenditures, a second was recorded, and the committee completed a roll‑call vote: Satianda Sharma (yes), Will Warren (yes), Tom Mcculier (yes) and Cat McKe (yes). The motion passed.
Next steps: the committee will make the authorized purchases promptly (some deals are time‑limited), explore security options that balance deterrence and false triggers, and follow up with facilities and DPW about possible storage or maintenance support for gas‑powered equipment.
