Selectboard tables lawncare contract after member recusal; booster station work to disrupt local roads

The Winchester Selectboard on April 1 tabled a decision on a town lawncare contract after Chair Ben Kilanski recused himself because a family member bid for the work. Finance Supervisor Amy Bond told the board she solicited three local vendors: Full Tilt (Craig Osborne) reported a full schedule, Hill Top (Todd Kilanski) bid $350 per service per week and Picard Enterprises (John Picard) bid $315 per service per week. Selectman Kilanski recused himself from the vote because his brother was one of the bidders; Selectman Theresa Sepe suggested splitting jobs between local residents but the board ultimately decided to wait for the Conservation Commission's April 16 meeting before awarding services.

Bond said the custodial line can temporarily cover lawncare costs until the Groundskeeper/Custodian position is filled and that spring/fall cleanups were not included in the quoted prices. Selectman Trevor Croteau suggested the Highway Department handle spring and fall cleanups. The board tabled the award to allow the Conservation Commission to select a contractor for conservation properties so the town can coordinate choices.

T.A. Miner and Water/Sewer Superintendent Rick Meleski also announced that work on the 5 Corners booster station will begin April 6 and continue for about two weeks; excavation and site work may place obstructions in the road on Elm St., Woodard Ave. and Old Westport Rd. Mr. Meleski urged motorists to follow posted directions and use alternate routes where possible.

During public comment, resident Lindseigh Picard criticized holding an ambulance recruitment poll in nonpublic session and asked that the question be shared publicly. Resident Kelli Kilanski asked about commercial dumping at the transfer station and was told incidents have slowed.

The board took no final award on lawncare services and will revisit the issue after the Conservation Commission meets on April 16.