Hopkinton faces a contentious issue over a zoning change request by developer Kevin Meehan to build a country store and gas station on agricultural land. Despite local opposition and a petition, the decision rests with the Zoning Board of Appeals. This underscores the significant impact of local elections on community development.

On August 15, 2024, Timothy Brennan's police certification was suspended by the POST Commission, citing past actions from 2017 and 2022. However, on appeal, Commissioner Marsha V. Kazarosian overturned the decision, stating that Brennan's actions do not currently endanger public safety. Brennan, supported by Milford's police chief, is expected to resume work.

On August 6, 2024, Governor Maura Healey enacted a significant housing law aimed at addressing housing costs in Massachusetts, promising 65,000 new homes over five years at a cost of $5.1 billion. The law simplifies the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Hopkinton, however, did not receive funding from the act.

The Hopkinton Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) will review a zoning variance application for a country store and gas station at School and West Main streets, formerly the Evergreen Haven Garden Center. Developer Kevin Meehan proposes maintaining the agricultural tradition with amenities like full-serve gas pumps and a pollinator garden. Critics worry about increased traffic.

The Town of Hopkinton's Quarterly Deposit & Investment Report includes conservative fixed income and controversial individual stocks. The report raises ethical concerns and the potential need for an investment committee.

The editor explores Iceland and all its unique attractions, such as volcano hikes and geothermal lagoons.

The editor reflects on witnessing an assassination attempt on former President Trump, drawing parallels with past attacks on presidents Reagan and Roosevelt.

On July 11, a joint meeting will be held to appoint a replacement for departed School Committee member Adam Munroe. Four candidates are vying for the position: Brendan Tedstone, Kyla McSweeney, Deborah Mihaley, and Sravana Krishna. Tedstone, known for his fiscal conservatism, is recommended to bring balance to the Committee during crucial contract negotiations with the teachers union.

The town of Hopkinton, incorporated in 1715, marks its 300th anniversary of significant activity in 2024. Initially home to Christianized Native families, the land was purchased by Harvard trustees in 1715. Town and church history are intertwined, with early meetings held in a multi-purpose meeting house built by local residents. The first pastor, Reverend Samuel Barrett, was recruited in 1725. The original meeting house was relocated multiple times and rebuilt due to various disasters, but the community's faith remained strong.

The Boston Celtics are on their way to another title, but the organization's foundation was laid by Hopkinton men George V. Brown and his son Walter.

Hopkinton's upcoming election will significantly impact its Select Board with the voting in of two new members followed by a restructuring to elect a new chairperson and vice-chair. While every member holds equal voting power, the chair bears more responsibilities, including agenda setting with the Town Manager and generally serving as the board's spokesperson. Current Vice Chair Shahidul Mannan seeks the chairmanship, supported largely by party loyalists. Outcomes heavily depend on election results, with different scenarios predicting either Mannan or former chair Bryan Herr could prevail, influenced by the loyalties and previous actions of the board members.

Who gets to decide what kind of town we are? A pitched battle is underway, playing out at Select Board meetings and in our elections.