Hopkinton, May 26 — The Select Board reorganized for the new year, electing Shahidul Manan as Chair and Matt Kizner as Vice Chair. Additionally, they thanked outgoing Chair Joe Clark for his service. Members Brian Herr and Matt Kizner participated remotely. However,...
The board addressed a range of topics, including capital project financing, a framework for the upcoming police chief search, a draft Common Victualler License policy, and post-town meeting operational updates.
Hopkinton held its Annual Town Election on Monday at Hopkinton Middle School, with roughly 940 ballots cast out of approximately 13,600 registered voters — a turnout of around 8 percent.
Bullet voting describe it an honest expression of preference. A voter who believes one candidate is clearly the strongest, and who is not enthusiastic about the others, is not obligated to fill in additional bubbles. Casting a vote for a candidate the voter does not actually support, simply because the ballot allows it, may dilute the voter’s first choice.
The public forum addressed concerns over a closed meeting incident involving a sexual abuse survivor, a patriotic July 4th parade proposal, financial disclosures, and budget issues, highlighting ongoing community challenges.
Hopkinton’s Annual Town Meeting occurs at 9 A.M. to discuss budget and bylaw changes, allowing voter participation.
The Select Board now has an opportunity that does not come often — a clean slate and a chance to get this right. In February 2026, the board unanimously approved a public safety audit. That was the right call. What comes next matters even more.
Resident Vikasith Pratty supports Article 38 for Auciello Drive’s acceptance, emphasizing its importance for long-term stability, clarity, and consistency in maintenance and service delivery for the community.
During the April 7, 2026 Hopkinton Select Board meeting, survivors of sexual assault criticized town leadership’s inaction on complaints. Attendees urged accountability and proposed reforms amidst emotional testimonies regarding ongoing trauma.
A joint meeting between Hopkinton’s School Committee and Select Board revealed differing views on approving a $1.8 million paving project without a Town Meeting vote, raising governance concerns and establishing precedents.
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