Whitman's main governing board. Sets town policy, approves major contracts, and makes key appointments.
274 items across 21 meetings.
June 30, 2026 · agenda
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 30: the board reorganizes, choosing its chair and officer roles for the year.
📋 Proposed
Routine approval of town bills and payroll.
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 30: the board honors the retirement of Officer Robert Stokinger.
💬 Discussed
Coming up June 30: update on Park Ave. School among chairman's report items, alongside an all-chairs meeting and strategic plan.
📍 Park Ave.
💬 Discussed
Coming up June 30: Ed Winnett provides an update on the Hobart Dam replacement project.
📍 Hobart Dam
💬 Discussed
Coming up June 30: Ed Winnett updates the board on the Rail Trail under the Open Space & Recreation Plan.
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 30: request to hold 2 free concerts at Town Hall.
📍 Town Hall
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 30: request for the annual Summer Concert Series in Town Park, using Town Hall auditorium in bad weather.
📍 Town Park
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 30: vote to accept a donation for the Animal Shelter from the Copeland Family Foundation.
💰 Donation amount not specified
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 30: vote to sign the warrant for the September 1, 2026 State Primary Election.
💬 Discussed
Coming up June 30: discussion of a usage policy for the Town Hall auditorium.
📍 Town Hall
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 30: any necessary budget line item transfers.
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 30: resolution supporting community media modernization through MassAccess.
💬 Discussed
Updates from Economic Development, Regional Agreement, and Plymouth County Advisory committees; job postings and Corthell CPC funds.
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 30: closed-door sessions on a personnel matter and a proposed lease of the former DPW Administration Building to the Whitman Food Pantry.
📍 Former DPW Administration Building
June 17, 2026 · agenda
• Status unclear
Open time for residents to address the board.
📋 Proposed
Approve open session minutes from 4/23, 5/4, and 5/19/26.
💬 Discussed
Chairman's report includes a joint letter to the Inspector General's Office; no details given.
📋 Proposed
7:05 p.m. hearing on National Grid/Verizon petition to install two JO poles and relocate one on South Avenue near Linden and Broad Streets, with underground wiring.
📍 South Avenue near Linden and Broad Streets
💬 Discussed
Eric Dresser of WHCA to discuss Community Media Modernization (MassAccess).
📋 Proposed
Board to consider annual town appointments for fiscal year 2027.
📋 Proposed
Appoint members to the Hobart Dam Replacement Committee, and announce other board/committee vacancies.
📋 Proposed
Transfers totaling $83,000: $20,000 and $5,000 for Assistant Library Director and Senior Library Technician, $40,000 for police expenses, and $18,000 for vocational transportation.
💰 $83,000 total ($20,000 + $5,000 + $40,000 + $18,000)
💬 Discussed
Updates on Good Energy/National Grid basic service rates, DLS budget bylaw and financial management review, and optional Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission advisory.
💬 Discussed
Old business item on the ongoing Town Administrator search.
💬 Discussed
Update from the budget workgroup; no specifics provided.
📋 Proposed
Closed sessions to discuss reputation/competence of a town employee and to review executive session minutes.
June 16, 2026 · agenda
• Status unclear
Chairman's report on a letter from the Inspector General; details not specified.
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 16: petition by Mass. Electric, National Grid and Verizon to install two new JO poles and relocate one on South Avenue near Charles Street, with underground laterals near Linden and Broad Streets.
📍 South Avenue & Charles Street, near Linden and Broad Streets
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 16: consideration of annual town board and committee appointments.
💬 Discussed
Announcement of open seats on town boards and committees.
💬 Discussed
Update on community media modernization through Mass Access.
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 16: vote to appoint members from Conservation, Planning, Historical, DPW, Council on Aging and at-large to the Hobart Dam Replacement Committee.
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 16: $20,000 transfer to fund the Assistant Director position and $5,000 transfer to the Senior Library Technician position.
💰 $20,000 and $5,000 line-item transfers
📋 Proposed
Setting the board's upcoming meeting schedule.
💬 Discussed
Old business update on the ongoing Town Administrator search.
💬 Discussed
Coming up June 16: update on basic electric service rates effective August 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027.
💬 Discussed
State Division of Local Services review of town budget bylaw and financial management.
💬 Discussed
Advisory update from the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission.
📋 Proposed
Closed session to discuss the reputation, character, or professional competence of a town employee, and to review prior executive session minutes.
June 2, 2026 · agenda
📋 Proposed
Routine approval of town bills and payroll.
📋 Proposed
Routine read-file correspondence and open public comment period.
📋 Proposed
Approving open session minutes from 3/10, 3/24, 4/7 and 4/21.
📋 Proposed
Coming up June 2 at 7:05 PM: public hearing on Aum Jay Maruti, Inc. petition to alter the licensed premises at 183 South Avenue under its all-alcohol license.
💬 Discussed
Board will announce a Planning Board vacancy and discuss the procedure to fill it.
💬 Discussed
Discussion of the downtown revitalization study being done with the Old Colony Planning Council.
💬 Discussed
Discussion of the process for hiring a new Town Administrator.
💬 Discussed
Discussion of open seats on town boards and committees.
💬 Discussed
Discussion of town legal counsel fees.
📋 Proposed
Proposed appointment of Michael Cogran as Facilities Manager, subject to successful negotiations.
📋 Proposed
Proposed appointment of Brian LaPierre as Conservation Commission representative to the Community Preservation Committee.
📋 Proposed
Vote on town revolving accounts.
📋 Proposed
Vote to declare the former DPW Administration building available for disposition (sale or reuse).
💬 Discussed
Update on the status of fiscal years 2026, 2027 and 2028 budgets, plus the budget workgroup.
📋 Proposed
Closed-door sessions on a town employee's reputation, Facilities Manager negotiations, the former DPW building and Camp Alice Carlton property, and to approve prior executive minutes.
May 19, 2026 · minutes
🗳️ Voted on
Justin Evans elected Chair (3-0), Dan Salvucci Vice Chair (5-0), and Shawn Kain Clerk (5-0) for the newly organized board.
✅ Approved
Warrants approved 4-0-1 (Byers abstained).
💬 Discussed
Rosemary Hill (405 Franklin St.) cited lack of public trust and flagged the wetlands article being passed over; Bob Kimball (877 Auburnville Way) urged transparency and noted Select Board minutes were not current on the town website.
✅ Approved
Minutes approved 4-0-1 (Byers abstained).
✅ Approved
Approved use of Town Hall Auditorium and a one-day liquor license for a Mother's Club wine tasting on November 7, 2026; rental policy and unrealized costs briefly discussed.
📍 Town Hall Auditorium
✅ Approved
Accepted resignation of Richard Rosen as Member At-Large, Community Preservation Committee, effective May 5, 2026.
✅ Approved
Jason Desrosier appointed Member At-Large on the Community Preservation Committee (5-0).
✅ Approved
Mary Holland nominated as Whitman's representative on the Old Colony Elder Services Board of Directors for July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027.
🔄 Postponed
Board passed over setting FY2027 revolving-account limits pending Town Counsel opinion; Recreation account increase from $75,000 to $130,000 was the key change proposed.
💰 Recreation account proposed increase from $75,000 to $130,000
💬 Discussed
Board discussed holding a Fall Town Meeting to align Whitman-Hanson school capital items and revisit school assessment and transportation figures once state aid figures are certified.
✅ Approved
Next Select Board meetings scheduled for June 2 and June 16.
💬 Discussed
Town will retain (not sell) the historic Corthell Building; Our Future Learning Center has expressed interest in leasing it as a preschool/daycare, with CPA funds potentially used for renovation and a sprinkler-system review underway.
💰 Lease over $35,000 triggers procurement requirements; CPA funds may fund renovation
📍 Corthell Building
💬 Discussed
Rockland Town Meeting unanimously approved the sale; the Purchase and Sale agreement is expected to come before the Select Board in executive session in June.
💬 Discussed
The SSVT debt exclusion failed by 93 votes (~11% turnout); no FY27 budget impact, but the projected $1.093M FY28 debt payment would fall to the general fund if not approved at a future election.
💰 ~$1.093M potential addition to FY28 general fund if debt exclusion not passed
💬 Discussed
Whitman received $60,000 ($35,000 state, $25,000 OCPC) for a housing production plan that would give the Town greater control over new housing development; a public survey is live on the OCPC website.
💰 $60,000 grant received
💬 Discussed
Observances begin at 7:00 AM at multiple locations, concluding with a parade and ceremony at Town Hall; fountain may be turned off during the ceremony for hearing-aid users.
📍 Town Hall
💬 Discussed
Town Administrator Mary Beth Carter announced she will retire September 5 after 23 years with Whitman, including 3 years as Town Administrator.
✅ Approved
Board entered executive session to discuss Assistant Town Administrator contract negotiations and to review executive session minutes of 2/17/26.
May 19, 2026 · agenda
📋 Proposed
Board reorganizes, typically electing chair and assigning roles, coming up May 19.
📋 Proposed
Routine approval of town bills and payroll.
📋 Proposed
Routine correspondence and open public comment period.
📋 Proposed
Routine approval of prior meeting minutes.
📋 Proposed
Request to hold a wine tasting event in November, coming up May 19.
📋 Proposed
Accept Richard Rosen's resignation and consider appointing Jason Desrosier to the Community Preservation Committee.
📋 Proposed
Vote to name Mary Holland as Town representative on Old Colony Elder Services Board of Directors.
📋 Proposed
Vote to increase FY27 spending limits for various town revolving accounts.
💰 FY27 limits (amounts not specified)
💬 Discussed
Town Administrator to discuss Chapter 70 school state aid, capital planning, and a possible Fall Town Meeting—items affecting school funding and town spending.
📋 Proposed
Board to set its meeting schedule.
💬 Discussed
Updates on the Corthell Building and Camp Alice Carlton, coming up May 19.
📋 Proposed
Closed sessions for Assistant Town Administrator negotiations and to review/approve 2/17/26 executive session minutes.
May 4, 2026 · minutes
• Status unclear
Meeting opened at 6:00 PM with Pledge and a moment of silence for soldiers in Iran.
✅ Approved
Warrants approved 5-0.
✅ Approved
Read File correspondence accepted 5-0.
• Status unclear
No residents came forward to speak.
✅ Approved
Red Cross approved to hold blood drives at Town Hall Auditorium on 6/5/26, 8/14/26, and 11/13/26.
💬 Discussed
School Committee adjusted non-mandated busing to $202,000 (up ~$30,000), but the operating assessment remained unresolved as of this meeting.
💰 Non-mandated busing at $202,000; operating assessment amount pending
✅ Approved
Board adjourned to Town Meeting at 6:05 PM; meeting reconvened and adjourned at 9:54 PM.
April 23, 2026 · minutes
• Status unclear
Meeting opened with Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for soldiers in Iran.
✅ Approved
Warrants approved 5-0.
✅ Approved
Read File correspondence accepted 5-0.
💬 Discussed
No residents came forward to speak.
💬 Discussed
Chilcott interviewed; Board questioned her municipal operations, grant, and conflict-management experience, and her ability to serve as acting Town Administrator.
💬 Discussed
Dyer interviewed; prior Hanson Select Board member with federal, state, and local public-service experience; Board questioned HR, grants, zoning, and finance expertise.
💬 Discussed
Whitman's current Health Agent interviewed; Board assessed his readiness for a broader administrative role given his familiarity with Town operations and staff.
✅ Approved
Matthew Dyer appointed Assistant Town Administrator 3-2, effective July 1, 2026; contract negotiations scheduled for May.
💬 Discussed
Board entered executive session to conduct contract negotiations with nonunion personnel: Chief of Police, Deputy Chief, and Town Administrator.
✅ Approved
Executive session minutes from January 27, 2026 reviewed and approved.
✅ Approved
Meeting adjourned 4-0 at 8:15 PM.
April 21, 2026 · minutes
✅ Approved
Warrants approved 5-0.
💬 Discussed
Resident Dawn Byers argued that spending $30,000 in free cash on a capital improvement plan is wasteful because the Division of Local Services offers the same service free; she urged using grants or the Collins Center instead.
💰 $30,000 from free cash proposed in Article 24
📍 20 Russell Road (speaker's address)
✅ Approved
Prior meeting minutes approved 5-0.
🔄 Postponed
Item passed over; will be rescheduled for a future meeting.
💬 Discussed
Interviews for the three finalists will be held Thursday at 6 PM.
💬 Discussed
State and federal citations presented honoring Kowalski's four-plus decades of public service on the School Committee and Select Board.
✅ Approved
Fourteen fuel-storage licenses, two junk-collector licenses, two junk-dealer licenses, and one pool-table license renewed 5-0 for businesses and town facilities across Whitman.
✅ Approved
Beer garden license approved for Old Colony Brewing at Whitman Town Park, noon–4 PM on June 13, 2026, subject to $50 fee and $1 million liquor liability insurance.
💰 $50 license fee
📍 Whitman Town Park
✅ Approved
Joe Moccia's resignation as Conservation Commission member accepted, effective immediately.
✅ Approved
Parker Miner appointed as Conservation Commission member through June 30, 2028.
✅ Approved
Scott Youngstrom appointed as Associate Member, Conservation Commission, through June 30, 2027.
✅ Approved
Ryan Dillon's resignation from both assistant inspector roles accepted, effective April 13, 2026.
✅ Approved
Jacob Poulin appointed Assistant Plumbing and Gas Inspector through June 30, 2026.
✅ Approved
Checkers appointed for the May 4, 2026 Annual Town Meeting per Town Clerk's request.
✅ Approved
Mike Cogran appointed as Temporary Facilities Manager pending anticipated vacancy and subject to union negotiations.
🗳️ Voted on
Select Board previously voted to zero out non-mandated busing; Finance Committee backed the move 7-1, but Board clarified intent is to return the issue to the School Committee to find alternative funding, not eliminate it permanently.
💬 Discussed
The $114,995 staff parking lot article will not go forward at this Town Meeting; a separate funding source may be available and Hanson is not contributing its share.
💰 $114,995
🗳️ Voted on
June 6 Fire Chief exam postponed after fewer than two applications were received; Board voted 5-0 to ask Civil Service to reopen the exam to deputy chiefs, captains, and lieutenants to fill the vacancy faster.
🗳️ Voted on
Board amended a prior vote so the additional 10% free cash allocation goes to Plymouth County Retirement (Line 35) in the FY27 budget instead of General Stabilization.
💰 10% free cash allocation redirected to pension line
April 21, 2026 · agenda
💬 Discussed
Coming up April 21: Old Colony Planning Council presents on the Whitman Downtown Development Project.
📍 Downtown Whitman
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 21: renewing 2026–2027 licenses for fuel storage ($20/tank), junk collectors/dealers ($50), and pool tables ($75/table) at sites townwide.
💰 Fuel storage $20/tank; junk $50; pool table $75/table
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 21: vote on a one-day liquor license for an Old Colony Brewing beer garden at the Whitman Day 2026 event June 13.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 21: accept Joe Moccia's resignation, appoint Parker Miner as member, and appoint Scott Youngstrom as associate member.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 21: accept Ryan Dillon's resignation and appoint Jacob Poulin as Assistant Plumbing and Gas Inspector.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 21: appoint checkers for the May 4, 2026 Annual Town Meeting.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 21: vote to appoint a temporary Facilities Director ahead of an anticipated vacancy, subject to union negotiations.
💬 Discussed
Coming up April 21: budget update from staff.
📋 Proposed
Pledge, moment of silence, warrant approvals, read file, public forum, and approval of 1/12/26 and 1/27/26 minutes.
April 7, 2026 · minutes
✅ Approved
Approved 5-0. Routine.
✅ Approved
Accepted 5-0. Routine.
✅ Approved
All three sets of open session minutes approved 5-0.
💬 Discussed
Resident Bob Kimball (877 Auburnville Way) flagged that the upcoming 40R (smart-growth overlay district) zoning hearing was hard to find on the Town website; Town Administrator agreed and said it can be posted via Newsflash.
📍 877 Auburnville Way
💬 Discussed
Rising fixed costs and limited revenue growth will pressure the budget through at least 2031; the Board is trying to avoid a Prop 2½ override for FY27 but acknowledged one may be unavoidable in future years, with the Town Administrator opposing use of stabilization funds to protect bond rating.
💬 Discussed
Eliminating non-mandated busing was debated as a FY27 budget-cutting option; concerns raised about legality, school district budget impacts, traffic safety on Route 58, and administrative burden of a paid-busing model with low-income waivers.
🗳️ Voted on
Board voted 5-0 to reconsider its prior vote regarding a library-specific override, with no replacement vote taken at this meeting.
💬 Discussed
Chief Clancy announced retirement effective July 10, 2026, after 35 years with the Whitman Fire Department.
✅ Approved
Town Hall Auditorium and Town Park approved for the DFS Holiday Tree Lighting Event, December 4–6.
📍 Town Hall / Town Park
✅ Approved
Conditional offers of employment approved for two police candidates.
✅ Approved
Margaret Donovan appointed as Crossing Guard/Special Constable through June 30, 2026.
✅ Approved
Permit fees raised: $50 for a single-family home or single unit, $100 for two-family, $150 for up to 6 units, $500 for 7+ units — applicable when selling or renovating.
💰 $50 single-family; $100 two-family; $150 up to 6 units; $500 for 7+ units
✅ Approved
Board authorized signing the collective bargaining agreement covering July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028, contingent on union signature.
✅ Approved
New high-deductible health plan with HSA added as an optional insurance choice for Town employees; opt-out language for employees with other coverage still under review.
✅ Approved
Board voted 5-0 to place a Prop 2½ override question on the May 16, 2026 Annual Town Election ballot to fund the FY27 operating budget and regional school assessment; dollar amount left blank pending final determination.
💰 Amount TBD; would raise taxes above levy limit
✅ Approved
Final warrant approved 5-0, including a minor Planning Board revision and the high school staff parking lot article pending Hanson's guidance on timing.
✅ Approved
One-year exemption approved directing free cash to OPEB (retiree health benefit reserve) instead of General Stabilization, bringing total OPEB funding to ~$234,000 this year (inclusive of a prior $140,000 vote).
💰 ~$234,000 total to OPEB; $0 to General Stabilization this year
💬 Discussed
Board agreed not to sell the historic Corthell Building; potential CPA-funded restoration is being explored, with possible future uses including the library, Council on Aging, or rentable meeting/event space.
✅ Approved
Board entered executive session for a police union Step 2 grievance, nonunion contract strategy, a personnel matter, and review of Dec 30, 2025 executive session minutes.
✅ Approved
Meeting adjourned at 11:30 PM.
April 7, 2026 · agenda
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 7 at 6:30 p.m., the Select Board meets jointly with the Finance Committee.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 7: vote to approve a Proposition 2½ override question (property-tax increase) for the May 16, 2026 Annual Town Election ballot.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 7: vote to approve the warrant for the May 4, 2026 Annual Town Meeting, plus announce its start time.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 7: Chief Clancy requests an increase in smoke and carbon-monoxide detector inspection fees, which homeowners pay when selling property.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 7: vote to authorize signing the collective bargaining agreement between the Town and the Whitman Firefighters Association.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 7: discussion of a high deductible health plan for town employees.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 7: Chief Hanlon requests approval of conditional offers of employment.
📋 Proposed
Coming up April 7: vote to appoint Margaret Donovan as a crossing guard/special constable.
📋 Proposed
Michelle LaMattina to present on the DFS Holiday Tree Lighting Event.
💬 Discussed
Corthell Building listed under old business; no details provided.
📋 Proposed
Routine approval of bill and payroll warrants and the 12/30/25 open session minutes.
📋 Proposed
Time for residents to address the board.
📋 Proposed
Closed sessions on the Whitman Police Association grievance, a personnel matter, nonunion contract strategy, grant requirements, and reviewing 12/30/25 executive minutes.
March 24, 2026 · minutes
✅ Approved
Routine financial warrants and correspondence accepted.
✅ Approved
Open session minutes from Nov. 18, Dec. 1, and Dec. 15, 2025 approved 5-0.
💬 Discussed
School Committee member Ryan Tressel warned W-H district needs ~$2M in cuts—9 positions plus 23 cut last fall—due to rising fixed costs, with long-term student impact expected.
💰 ~$2 million in reductions
💬 Discussed
SST superintendent reported bids wrap up June 2026, construction follows; proposed amendment to add Pembroke would share building/operating costs but may shift seat allocation among member towns—will appear at Annual Town Meeting.
💰 Whitman debt-share assessment expected to level off and trend down after FY27
✅ Approved
Board approved 4-1 a new Class II dealer license for CTS Auto (Taylor & Danielle Harrington), rescinding the prior Mass Auto World license at the same address.
📍 470 Temple Street
💬 Discussed
Whitman Counseling Center (serves 122 residents) asked for financial help as a United Way grant ends July 2026 and federal Medicaid changes loom; board suggested exploring opioid settlement funds and asked them to return during next budget cycle.
💰 Town contributed ~$339,000 total 1988–2021; no current budget allocation
✅ Approved
Board voted 5-0 to terminate the Jan. 10, 2023 cannabis Host Community Agreement with Soulflower (assigned to Chill & Bliss, Fusion Drop, Crafted Cannabis, Soulflower Express) after the project expired; The Stories Company's separate cannabis project remains active.
✅ Approved
Annual taxi/livery licenses renewed for Sleipnir Transportation (8 Danecca Dr.), Pharaoh Limo Services (15 Hilltop Rd.), and All Star Transports (56 Vincent St.).
✅ Approved
Michael Lamerique appointed to Recreation Commission through June 30, 2028.
✅ Approved
Kathleen Hurley appointed to Capital Committee through June 30, 2027.
✅ Approved
Board approved a fundraising thermometer on Town Hall lawn April–May and declared April 'Dollars for Scholars Month.'
📍 Town Hall lawn
✅ Approved
Veterans' Services Officer's request to hold the Memorial Day parade approved.
✅ Approved
Melissa Maroney's resignation as Planning Board Recording Secretary accepted, effective March 31, 2026.
🗳️ Voted on
Board voted 3-2 to pursue only a library override; a broader override covering public safety, full school assessment, snow/ice deficit, and OPEB failed 2-3, and a library-plus-busing override also failed 2-3—if the library override fails, the library closes.
💰 Override amount not finalized; broader override would have covered public safety cuts, snow/ice deficit, and school assessment; stabilization fund currently near historic high (~$500K use discussed)
💬 Discussed
Position posted; 45 applications received—board will use a subcommittee to screen and bring finalists to the full board.
March 24, 2026 · agenda
📋 Proposed
Pledge, moment of silence, recording announcement, bill/payroll warrants, correspondence, and public forum.
📋 Proposed
Approving open-session minutes from 11/18/25, 12/1/25, and 12/15/25.
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 24, 7:15 PM hearing on a Class II auto dealer license for CTS Auto at 470 Temple Street, replacing the license now held by Mass Auto World.
💰 License fee plus surety bond required
📍 470 Temple Street
💬 Discussed
Charles Soldevilla to present on BAMSI Health (Whitman Counseling Center).
📋 Proposed
Renewing licenses for Sleipnir Transportation (8 Danecca Drive), Pharaoh Limo Services (15 Hilltop Road), and All Star Transports (56 Vincent Street).
📋 Proposed
Appointing Michael Lamerique to the Recreation Commission and Kathleen Hurley to the Capital Committee.
📋 Proposed
Allowing DFS to erect a fundraising thermometer on the Town Hall lawn and declaring April "Dollars for Scholars Month."
📍 Town Hall lawn
📋 Proposed
VSO request to hold the Memorial Day Parade on May 25, 2026.
📋 Proposed
Accepting Melissa Maroney's resignation as Recording Secretary of the Planning Board.
📋 Proposed
Update on the Host Community Agreement with The Stories Company, and votes to terminate agreements with Soulflower-related cannabis entities (Chill & Bliss, Fusion Drop, Crafted Cannabis, Soulflower Express).
💬 Discussed
Coming up March 24: discussion of a possible Proposition 2½ tax override, which would raise property taxes if pursued.
💰 Potential property tax increase via override
💬 Discussed
Status update on the Assistant Town Administrator position.
📋 Proposed
Closed sessions on personnel matters including Taylor Harrington, and review of executive session minutes (11/18/26, 12/30/25).
March 10, 2026 · minutes
• Status unclear
Meeting opened with Pledge, moment of silence for soldiers in Iran and in memory of Tim Ewell.
✅ Approved
Warrants approved 5-0.
✅ Approved
Read File correspondence accepted 5-0.
💬 Discussed
Chief Clancy praised Fire, Police, and DPW for blizzard response; John Galvin (41 High St) announced a March Madness fundraiser for the Friends of Whitman Elderly and Disabled taxation fund.
📍 41 High Street
💬 Discussed
Chair noted Foxborough Select Board is withholding a license for World Cup events at Gillette Stadium until security costs are paid.
✅ Approved
Board honored Sgt. David Gregory by citation for performing the Heimlich maneuver at a church service on February 7, 2026.
✅ Approved
Robert Lelievre appointed as Member (not Associate) of the Historical Commission through June 30, 2028, filling an existing vacancy; his associate-member appointment rescinded.
✅ Approved
Eight 5-drawer flat blueprint file cabinets declared surplus and authorized for public auction.
✅ Approved
Board approved issuance of bonds and bond anticipation notes for the Whitman Middle School building project; Moody's rated bonds Aa3 and notes MIG 1, with debt service extending through 2055.
💰 Long-term debt service through 2055; favorable rates secured via district borrowing
✅ Approved
Formal policy adopted limiting public comment to 15 minutes total per meeting, three minutes per speaker, with Chair controlling recognition and removal.
✅ Approved
Proposed amendments to zoning by-law Sections 240-6.6 and 240-12.5 referred to the Planning Board and By-law Study Committee for review.
✅ Approved
Wetlands Protection By-law, Chapter 7 Section 7-9 (boards/committees), and Smart Growth Overlay District (40R, a dense mixed-use zoning tool) referred to the By-law Study Committee.
✅ Approved
Voters will decide whether to exempt from Proposition 2½ limits the Town's share of bonds for a new South Shore Regional Vocational Technical School building and athletic facilities.
💰 Property tax increase if override passes; amount not specified
💬 Discussed
FY27 budget shows a projected deficit just under $500,000 after a 10.5% active-employee health insurance increase; Board discussed override, free cash, staffing cuts, and public-safety impacts as options.
💰 ~$500,000 deficit; 10.5% health insurance increase; OPEB trust funds proposed for retiree coverage
💬 Discussed
DPW Commission Chair Kevin Cleary urged maintaining separate superintendents for Highway and Water/Sewer divisions, citing their distinct operational demands.
💬 Discussed
Resident John Galvin suggested redirecting free-cash Stabilization allocations toward the Plymouth County Retirement obligation to free up revenue for the deficit.
💰 Current policy allocates 10% free cash to Stabilization and 10% to Capital Stabilization
✅ Approved
Kathy Keefe retiring June 30; Board authorized posting the Assistant Town Administrator position internally and externally simultaneously, noting the role has secured over $400,000 in grants over three years.
💰 Position has generated $400,000+ in grants over 3 years
✅ Approved
Jacqueline Mullahy appointed Principal Assessor effective March 2, 2026, bringing prior experience in Cohasset and Scituate as a Massachusetts accredited assessor.
💬 Discussed
Police contract now includes tuition reimbursement language matching the fire contract; Board members Kain (Police) and Evans (Fire) volunteered to serve on the Education Evaluation Board.
✅ Approved
Board entered executive session to discuss purchase, exchange, lease, or value of the Corthell Building, with Chair finding open meeting would harm negotiating position.
📍 Corthell Building
✅ Approved
Meeting adjourned at 8:56 PM.
March 10, 2026 · agenda
📋 Proposed
Routine approval of town bill and payroll warrants.
📋 Proposed
Open time for residents to address the board.
📋 Proposed
Presentation of a citation honoring Sergeant David Gregory.
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 10: appoint Robert Lelievre as a full member of the Historical Commission, rescinding his associate role.
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 10: DPW Superintendent requests declaration of surplus material.
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 10: approval of the sale of bonds and notes for the Whitman Middle School building project.
💰 Bond amounts not specified
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 10: consideration of a public comment policy.
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 10: vote to refer Zoning By-law amendments (Sections 240-6.6, 240-7.2, 240-12.5) to the Planning Board and By-law Study Committee.
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 10: vote to refer the Wetlands Protection By-law, Ch.7 §7-9, and a Smart Growth Overlay Project to the By-law Study Committee.
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 10: vote to place a May 6 ballot question exempting Whitman's share of bonds for a new South Shore Regional Vocational Technical high school from Prop 2½.
💰 Debt exclusion would raise taxes; amount not stated
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 10: request to use the Town Hall auditorium for a freshman/sophomore semi-formal dance on March 27, 2026.
📍 Town Hall, 54 South Avenue
💬 Discussed
Update on the town budget.
📋 Proposed
Coming up March 10: appointment of Jacqueline Mullahy as Principal Assessor.
📋 Proposed
Closed session to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease or value of the Corthell Building.
📍 Corthell Building
February 17, 2026 · minutes
✅ Approved
Warrants approved 5-0.
✅ Approved
Read File correspondence accepted 5-0.
💬 Discussed
No residents came forward during public forum.
✅ Approved
Board voted 5-0 to ask the Massachusetts Inspector General to conduct a forensic audit of WHRSD finances.
💬 Discussed
Board and Finance Committee reviewed a projected FY27 deficit and debated a proposed formula allocating 60% of net revenue growth to schools and 40% to the town; some members worried it could still cut municipal services.
💬 Discussed
Board discussed a possible override ballot question for FY27; several members opposed limiting it to public safety alone and questioned feasibility after the prior year's failed vote; draft warrant language was reviewed.
✅ Approved
Board approved Amendment #1 (dated January 7, 2026) to the Whitman-Hanson IMA, adding Section 2A to clarify the MSBA grant fund-transfer process, 5-0.
💬 Discussed
Select Board member Laura Howe announced she is withdrawing her resignation and will seek reelection.
✅ Approved
Board approved installation of one joint-occupancy pole (p.51-50) on Washington Street approximately 100 feet southwest of Whitman Avenue intersection, with underground laterals, 5-0.
📍 Washington Street at Whitman Avenue
✅ Approved
Board approved a Wine & Malt Package Goods Store liquor license for Quality Fuel Mart at 180 South Avenue, subject to fees and ABCC approval, 5-0.
📍 180 South Avenue
✅ Approved
Yvonne Evans reappointed as Registrar of Voters for a three-year term, 5-0.
✅ Approved
Board approved forming a committee to pursue grant funding to replace the partially collapsed Hobart Dam; a 2017 estimate placed replacement costs at ~$1.2 million.
💰 ~$1.2 million estimated replacement cost (2017); grant funding being pursued
✅ Approved
Board approved a new steering committee — led by Conservation Commission member Ed Winnett — to implement the Open Space and Recreation Plan, 5-0.
💬 Discussed
Old Colony Planning Council presented a proposed multi-use regional rail trail through Abington, Whitman, and East Bridgewater, covering potential easements, environmental impacts, and funding.
📍 Abington, Whitman, East Bridgewater corridor
✅ Approved
Board voted 5-0 to refer a proposed Smart Growth Overlay District zoning by-law to the Planning Board for review.
✅ Approved
Next Select Board meetings set for March 10 and March 24.
💬 Discussed
Town Administrator reported the animal control kennel is functional but needs ceiling, insulation, and fence repairs; a quote is being sought and discussions with Hanson and Abington about a three-town agreement have resumed.
💬 Discussed
Town Administrator reported the Good Energy community electricity aggregation rate is 14.184¢/kWh, lower than National Grid's current rate.
💰 Rate 14.184¢/kWh vs. higher National Grid rate
💬 Discussed
Board entered executive session 5-0 to discuss possible purchase/lease/value of Camp Alice Carlton and to review/approve prior executive session minutes (9/23/25, 10/7/25, 10/28/25).
📍 Camp Alice Carlton
February 17, 2026 · agenda
📋 Proposed
Coming up Feb 17 at 6:00 PM, the Select Board meets jointly with the Finance Committee, likely on budget matters.
📋 Proposed
Coming up Feb 17 at 7:05 PM, a hearing on installing one utility pole on Washington St. at the Whitman Ave. intersection.
📍 Washington St. at Whitman Ave.
📋 Proposed
Coming up Feb 17 at 7:10 PM, a hearing on Trillium Fuel's wine & malt package store liquor license at 180 South Avenue.
📍 180 South Avenue
📋 Proposed
Reappointing Yvonne Evans as Registrar of Voters for a three-year term.
📋 Proposed
Considering forming a committee to oversee replacement of the Hobart Dam.
📋 Proposed
Considering forming a committee to implement the town's Open Space & Recreation Plan.
📋 Proposed
OCPC proposal to include Whitman in the existing Old Colony Rail Trail.
📋 Proposed
Referring the proposed Smart Growth Overlay District zoning bylaw to the Planning Board for review.
📋 Proposed
Setting the board's meeting schedule.
💬 Discussed
Budget update during the meeting.
💬 Discussed
Town Administrator to give an update including Animal Control Officer matters.
📋 Proposed
Closed session to discuss purchase, exchange, lease, or value of Camp Alice Carlton real property.
📍 Camp Alice Carlton
📋 Proposed
Closed session to review and approve executive session minutes from 9/23/25, 10/7/25, and 10/28/25.