Mary Ellen Kenney (O’Toole), 81, passed away on December 14, 2025, after a brief illness. A Boston native, she had a successful career in real estate and contracting. She is survived by her two sons, grandson, great-granddaughters, sister, and nieces and nephews. Funeral services are set for December 19.
Matthew Kizner, a member of the Hopkinton Select Board, apologizes for missing recent meetings due to hospitalization and surgery. Despite this setback, he remains committed to his work for the community, focusing on water and sewer management processes. He expresses gratitude for the opportunity to serve and wishes the community happy holidays.
Kevin Narbonne of Hopkinton expressed concerns in a complaint to the Select Board regarding the police department’s preparedness for emergencies, following a swatting incident on October 1, 2024. He criticized misleading statements about an FBI review and highlighted the need for comprehensive after-action assessments. Narbonne called for accountability and transparency from local officials.
The Hopkinton School Committee is deliberating between two school calendars for 2026-27: one with additional religious holidays and another limited to federal holidays. The decision will weigh considerations of inclusion, instructional time, community values, and equity. Neighboring districts offer various models, reflecting differing approaches to balancing recognition and legal neutrality.
From December 1-7, HPD engaged in routine police work, addressing a serious car crash and community holiday events. Police logs noted property checks, suspicious activities, and traffic responses. An online photo of a crash on December 6 raised public interest, while preparations for local holiday festivities were emphasized during this period.
Sara Ghanem and Samar Farag formed a profound friendship at Boston Children’s Hospital while seeking urgent care for their children. Both faced significant challenges as they navigated healthcare in a new country. Together, they pursued a nursing degree, supporting each other through difficulties, and aim to graduate in May 2027.
Eric Carty, after 40 years as Hopkinton’s Water & Sewer Department director, is stepping down. Starting as a meter reader in the ’80s, he modernized the department by launching its first website and upgrading water systems. Carty effectively addressed challenges like PFAS contamination and ongoing water supply issues throughout his career.
At a recent meeting, the Hopkinton Select Board implemented new public forum rules to ensure efficiency, discussed Lake Maspenock weed management, approved police promotions, and explored a new Fourth of July parade. Public input highlighted safety concerns regarding herbicide use and e-bike regulations, while community feedback sparked discussions on transparency and board responsiveness.
A Special Town Meeting is scheduled for December 4th at 7:00 P.M. to address a budget overestimation that could lead to higher taxes for residents. Officials need at least 131 attendees to approve necessary adjustments for the 2026 budget, ensuring tax bills remain reasonable and preventing overcharges.
The weekly police log highlighted a blend of minor incidents and one significant event. Notable occurrences included a vehicle fire after an accident on South St, a school bus hitting a mailbox, and a truck stuck between properties. Other amusing calls featured a suspicious van that was an Amazon driver on a break and a wandering German Shepherd.
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