With so many vacant buildings along South St., why is rezoning necessary now? The financial benefits are minimal, estimated at around $60,000 annually, or just 31 cents per month per taxpayer.

Muriel has served multiple terms on both the Planning Board and the Select Board, most recently as Chair. She has also been a member of the Board of Appeals and has held many other volunteer positions. Currently, she is running for a seat on the Governor's Council in Massachusetts, and I strongly encourage you to support her candidacy in the upcoming primary on Tuesday, September 3rd.

Timothy Boivin addressed the Hopkinton Select Board to express frustration about repeated appearances over seven months seeking accountability for the mishandling of personal information in a child rape case. He criticized various officials and the Town Government for lack of responsibility and transparency, calling for resignations and systemic improvements.

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

The Hopkinton Select Board received an update on the insufficiently redacted transcript scandal involving a 2004-2005 rape accusation against former Deputy Chief Jay Porter. Despite multiple missed chances to prevent the mistake, the Northwest District Attorney's Office found it unintentional. Town counsel expressed regret for the oversight's impact on the victim.

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’s use of herbicides in North Pond contradicts prior studies and poses health risks to humans and aquatic life. Herbicides may be ineffective long-term due to resistance and ecosystem disruption. Alternatives like Integrated Pest Management and natural solutions are recommended for sustainable lake management. Peter Cholakis highlights the need for improved practices.

Ken Weismantel opposes the proposed 40% water rate increase set for July 2024. He argues that future MWRA connection costs aren't justified this year. He highlights that getting state approval for additional water is a lengthy process, and improvements in water treatment and operations should be prioritized before raising rates.

Timothy Boivin notes the courage of Interim Town Manager Elaine Lazarus, and new Select Board members Joe Clark and Brian Herr.

Barry Rosenbloom urges the community to attend Memorial Day ceremonies on May 27 to honor fallen soldiers. He highlights the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day, emphasizing the former's somber nature. He references Luke Young’s impactful letter and calls for collective gratitude and reflection over the holiday weekend.

Luke Young on the meaning of Memorial Day to a veteran, and why "thank you for your service" is better for Veteran's Day.

Ashley Fogg writes to note that since his election in May 2023, School Committee Member Adam Munroe has attended only half of the scheduled meetings, with significant absences at critical town and committee events, including key votes.