In the minutes: Littleton meeting, FLOCK camera (Jun 8)

Town of Littleton
Select Board
Joint Meeting with Finance Committee

Received: AS
Date/Time: 6/4/26 – 4:30 PM
Revised: AS
Date/Time: 6/5/26 – 10:45 AM

AGENDA
June 8, 2026 at 5:45 PM
Littleton Town Offices – 37 Shattuck Street, Room 103
Notice of public meeting as required by M.G.L. Chpt.30A §18-28

Public meetings may be broadcast live, streamed live, or recorded for later playback on LCTV and/or the Internet.
PARTICIPANTS/ATTENDEES ARE REMINDED THAT BY JOINING THIS MEETING THAT YOU CONSENT TO YOUR
LIKENESS AND AUDIO BEING USED AND REBROADCAST BY LCTV. If attending virtually, please identify your screen
name with your full name. This is to protect the integrity of the meeting. Attendees of all public meetings should be aware of
Massachusetts Recording Law M.G.L. Ch. 20A §20 (f)* if they are personally considering recording any part of a meeting or a
meeting in its entirety. The listings of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair 48 hours before said meeting, which
may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may be discussed. Items may be taken out of order and differ from those
listed below. Other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.

5:45 PM

1. Executive Session
A. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(2) to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for
negotiations with non-union personnel, specifically the Town Administrator

6:30 PM

2. Organization / Pledge of Allegiance / Read Mail

6:35 PM

3. Town Administrator Contract Renewal
A. Vote to Appoint Select Board Representatives to Conduct Contract Renewal Negotiations
with the Town Administrator

6:40 PM

4. Joint Meeting with Finance Committee
A. Vote to amend the Fiscal Year 2026 Department Revolving Fund “Alarm Box Repairs
(Fire Alarm System) for the Fire Department from $6,500 to $16,500
B. Vote to Approve Revolving Fund Policy
C. Vote to transfer $8,820.83 to the Assessor’s budget to upgrade the CAMA System
Software (Finance Committee action required)
D. Vote to transfer $10,200 to the Elder & Human Services Budget (Finance Committee
action required)

7:00 PM

5. Public Hearing
A. Tavern in the Square, 810 Constitution Ave., application for a Change of Manager for All
Alcoholic Beverages, Restaurant Liquor License under M.G.L. Chapter 138, §15

7:15 PM

6. Public Input/Members’ Updates
Public Input will last for 10 minutes, and speakers are allowed to speak for no longer than 2
minutes. Speakers addressing the Select Board are required to do so from the podium and provide
name and address for the record, and all comments must be made through the Chair.
The Select Board will also provide updates, as warranted, on the following projects:
• Flock Security Cameras
• Nagog Orchard
• Charter Committee

7:30 PM

7. Department/Board Updates and Requests
A. Historical Commission – 268A, Section 19 Disclosure for Kristopher Dalen

7:35 PM

8. Appointments
A. Fiscal Year 2027 Town Board/Committee appointments
B. Vote to appoint Jennifer Davis as Interim Parks, Recreation, and Community Education
Director at Grade 16, Step 10 on Compensation Plan Schedule A, subject to approval of
Parks & Recreation Commission

7:45 PM

9. Town Administrator Update
A. Update on municipal operations, projects and initiatives

8:00 PM

10. Select Board Discussions
A. Introduction of Town Moderator, Cammy Bean
B. Charter Committee report discussion
C. Review and vote on proposed Select Board July-December schedule and October 27th
Special Town Meeting schedule
D. Review, Discuss and Assign Select Board liaisons to Town Boards and Committees
E. Discuss the VFW lease agreement
F. Update regarding the bond financed municipal facilities policy
G. Annual Town Meeting post meeting review
H. Discuss moratorium on Data Centers
I. Discuss inactivation of Master Plan Implementation Committee

9:00 PM

11. Minutes
A. Approve the minutes of May 11, 2026 and May 26, 2026

9:05 PM

ANTICIPATED ADJOURNMENT

*After notifying the chair of the public body, any person may make a video or audio recording of an open session of a meeting
of a public body, or may transmit the meeting through any medium, subject to reasonable requirements of the chair as to the
number, placement and operation of equipment used so as not to interfere with the conduct of the meeting. At the beginning of
the meeting, the chair shall inform other attendees of any recordings.

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

2

MAIL
Requested by: James A. Duggan, Town Administrator

Proposed Motion(s)
None are anticipated at this time.
Additional Information
Included in the Board’s packet is:
1. Current Openings on Town Boards
2. Select Board Office Hours
3. July 4th Picnic
4. Notification to Abutters

Action Sought: None anticipated

TOWN OF LITTLETON

Received: AS
Date/Time: 5/29/26 – 9:40 AM
Revised:
Date/Time:

PUBLIC NOTICE

CURRENT VACANCIES ON TOWN BOARDS
Applications are invited from residents of the Town of Littleton for the following Town board
positions appointed by the Select Board. Application forms are available online at
https://littletonmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php or at the Office of the Select Board/Town
Administrator - Town of Littleton, 37 Shattuck Street, Littleton, MA 01460. Application
submissions will be accepted and interviews/appointments will be made by the Select Board on a
rolling basis until the positions are filled.

APPOINTED BY THE SELECT BOARD:
• AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST
Two (2) Residents with Specific Experience – Term expiring June 30, 2028
• AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION
One (1) citizen-at-large - term expiring June 30, 2027
One (1) citizen-at-large - term expiring June 30, 2028
One (1) member (engaged in farming, employed in the agricultural field and/or
with knowledge/experience in agricultural practices / business) - term expiring
June 30, 2029)
• BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Two (2) members – term expiring June 30, 2029
• CLEAN LAKES COMMITTEE
One (1) citizen-at-large – term expiring June 30, 2028
One (1) Mill Pond Alternate – term expiring June 30, 2027
One (1) Spectacle Pond Alternate – term expiring June 30, 2029
One (1) Lake Matawanakee Alternate - term expiring June 30, 2029
• COMMITTEE FOR THE EXPLORATION OF REAL ESTATE TAX RELIEF
FOR SENIORS
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2027
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2028
• COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
Two (2) members – term expiring June 30, 2029
• CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Two (2) members - term expiring June 30, 2029
• COUNCIL ON AGING
Three (3) members - term expiring June 30, 2029
• CULTURAL COUNCIL
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2028
Four (4) members – term expiring June 30, 2029

• DISABILITY COMMISSION
One (1) member with a disability (or family member) - term expiring June
30,2029
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
• ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
(Three) 3 members – No expiration date
• HISTORICAL COMMISSION
Two (2) members – Term expiring June 30, 2029
• LITTLETON COMMUNITY TELEVISION (LCTV) ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
Two (2) members – Term expiring June 30, 2029
• PERMANENT MUNICIPAL BUILDING COMMITTEE
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
• PERSONNEL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2028
Two (2) members – term expiring June 30, 2029
• SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE
Three (3) members – term expiring June 30, 2029
• TAXATION AID COMMITTEE
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
• ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
One (1) alternate - term expiring June 30, 2027
Two (2) alternates – term expiring June 30, 2029

APPOINTED BY THE TOWN ADMINISTRATOR:
•

AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2027

APPOINTED BY LELWD (Littleton Electric Light and Water
Department)
• FINANCE COMMITTEE
One (1) member - term expiring June 30, 2028

APPOINTED BY THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE
• FINANCE COMMITTEE
One (1) member - term expiring June 30, 2029

LITTLETON HOUSING AUTHORITY – JOINT APPOINTMENT
One (1) member due to failure to elect at the Annual Town Election of May 9, 2026 –
Term will expire in one year after the May 2027 Annual Town Election
LITTLETON SELECT BOARD
GARY WILSON, CHAIR

TOWN OF LITTLETON
OFFICE OF THE

SELECT BOARD
37 SHATTUCK STREET, P.O. BOX 1305
LITTLETON, MASSACHUSETTS 01460
(978) 540-2460

Select Board Office Hours
Select Board Office Hours are scheduled for the following dates. All office hours will take place at the
Reuben Hoar Library in the Historical Room unless indicated otherwise.
Wednesday, June 24th from 4:00-6:00 with Mark Rambacher
Friday, June 26th from 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Wednesday, July 1st from 11:00-12:30 with Karen Morrison
Friday, July 31st from 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday, August 28th from 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday, September 25th from 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday, October 30th from 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday, December 18th from 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday January 29th 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday, February 26th 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday, March 26th 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday, 30th April 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp
Friday, May 28th 3:00-4:00 with Kyle Bubp

3A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Town Administrator Contract Renewal
Possible vote to Appoint Select Board Representatives to Conduct
Contract Renewal Negotiations with the Town Administrator
Requested by: Select Board

Action Sought: Discussion/Vote

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion dependent.
If necessary - MOVE that the Select Board vote Appoint ___________________to Conduct
Contract Renewal Negotiations with the Town Administrator.
Additional Information

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

4A

Joint Meeting with the Finance Committee
Vote to amend the Fiscal Year 2026 Department Revolving Fund “Alarm
Box Repairs (Fire Alarm System) for the Fire Department from $6,500 to
$16,500
Requested by: Steele McCurdy, Fire Chief

Action Sought: Signature

Proposed Motion(s)
Move that the Select Board/Finance Committee vote to amend the Fiscal Year 2026
department revolving fund “Alarm Box Repairs (Fire Alarm System)"
Additional Information
Due to a mechanical issue with the Town Hall fire alarm panel, we are requesting an
increase in the spending limits in the Alarm Box Repair revolving account.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

4B

Revolving Fund Policy
Requested by: Finance Director

Action Sought: Discussion

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion Dependent.
Additional Information
As a result of our financial management policy discussions, we were requested to create
revolving fund policies. Attached is a sample of what they would look like for our upcoming
budget meetings. Finance Director requests review and input at the meeting.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Revolving Fund Details
Account Information
Account Name: Alarm Box Repairs (Fire Alarm System)
Fund Number: 2063
Department: Fire Department

Policy Outlining Fund Details:
The Fire Alarm Revolving Account was established decades ago to support the operation, maintenance, and
monitoring of the Town's municipal fire alarm system, commonly known as the "100 milliamp system." This
system consisted of dedicated alarm circuits connecting businesses directly to the Fire Department and was
funded through annual monitoring fees charged to participating properties.
Over time, advances in alarm technology resulted in many businesses transitioning to radio-connected alarm
boxes or private alarm monitoring companies. As the number of participating accounts declined, revenue to the
revolving account also decreased.
In late 2022, the Fire Department initiated the discontinuation of municipal monitoring for private alarm systems.
Factors contributing to this decision included declining participation, aging infrastructure, a need for significant
investment, and liability associated with operating the system. Property owners were notified of the transition and
provided until December 2024 to migrate to private alarm monitoring services. Portions of the existing
infrastructure continue to be utilized by the Town's alarm vendor to facilitate monitoring of both municipal and
private systems during the transition period.
At this time, all private accounts have been removed from the municipal fire alarm system. The remaining
monitored accounts are Town-owned facilities. As a result, the revolving account no longer has a revenue source
and is not expected to receive future fee revenue.
The municipal fire alarm infrastructure serving Town facilities is approaching the end of its useful life and would
require replacement or significant upgrades to remain in service. Several Town buildings have already been
converted to private alarm monitoring systems as part of building renovations or emergency repairs. Remaining
facilities will require either continued support of the municipal system or conversion to private monitoring.
Upon completion of the transition of the remaining Town facilities, expenditures associated with alarm monitoring
will continue; however, those costs will need to be funded through the operating budget or another funding source
rather than through the Fire Alarm Revolving Account. At that point, the revolving account balance would be fully
utilized, and the account could be closed.

Financial Overview
FY26 Revenue: $0.00

Expected Annual Revenue: $0.00

FY26 Expenses : $8,500

Estimated Annual Expenditures: $9,000

FY26 Ending Balance: $39,307

Projected Annual Balance: $30,307.19

Revolving Fund Authorization (Per MGL / Bylaw Requirements)
SECTION CATEGORY

DETAILS

A

Authorized Revolving Fund Name

Alarm Box Repairs (Fire Alarm System)

B

Authorized Department/Board/Committee

Fire Department

C

Revenue Sources

Fees charged from false alarm calls

D

Allowed Expenditures

Expenses related to alarm box repairs

E

Restrictions / Conditions for Expenditures

Expenses related to alarm box repairs

F

Reporting Requirements

G

Fund Established/Revision Date

ATM 5/5/1997 ART19

H

MGL #

Chapter 44, § 53E 1/2

I

Rescinded Date

Department Head Signature: _________________________________________________________________

Finance Director Signature: _________________________________________________________________

4C

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Joint Meeting with Finance Committee
(Finance Committee Action Only) Vote to transfer $8,820.83 to the
Assessor’s budget to upgrade the CAMA System Software
Requested by: Town Accountant Michelle Reynolds

Action Sought: Vote

Proposed Motion(s)
Move that the Finance Committee vote to authorize the Town Accountant to transfer
any amount from a departmental or other appropriation to any other appropriation to
address any deficits within the Town of Littleton Fiscal Year 2026 Operating Budget.
Additional Information
The 2016 Municipal Modernization Act amended the procedures for end-of-year transfers
in Massachusetts municipalities. The changes give cities and towns greater flexibility to
make year-end budget transfers for the last two months of the fiscal year, i.e., May and
June, and the first 15 days of July of the new fiscal year, which is the statutory period for
closing municipal financial records for the fiscal year. The amendments eliminate the limits
on types and amounts of end-of-year appropriation transfers that can be made under the
alternative procedure. End-of-fiscal-year transfers may now be made from health
insurance, debt service, or other unclassified or non-departmental line-item appropriations.
In addition, the amount that may be transferred from any department under this procedure
is no longer limited to three percent of the department’s budget. The school and light
departments, however, remain exempt from this procedure.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

4D

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Joint Meeting with Finance Committee
(Finance Committee Action Only) Vote to transfer $10,200 to the Elder &
Human Services Budget
Requested by: Town Accountant Michelle Reynolds

Action Sought: Vote

Proposed Motion(s)
Move that the Finance Committee vote to authorize the Town Accountant to transfer
any amount from a departmental or other appropriation to any other appropriation to
address any deficits within the Town of Littleton Fiscal Year 2026 Operating Budget.
Additional Information
The 2016 Municipal Modernization Act amended the procedures for end-of-year transfers
in Massachusetts municipalities. The changes give cities and towns greater flexibility to
make year-end budget transfers for the last two months of the fiscal year, i.e., May and
June, and the first 15 days of July of the new fiscal year, which is the statutory period for
closing municipal financial records for the fiscal year. The amendments eliminate the limits
on types and amounts of end-of-year appropriation transfers that can be made under the
alternative procedure. End-of-fiscal-year transfers may now be made from health
insurance, debt service, or other unclassified or non-departmental line-item appropriations.
In addition, the amount that may be transferred from any department under this procedure
is no longer limited to three percent of the department’s budget. The school and light
departments, however, remain exempt from this procedure.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

5A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Application for Change of Manager for Wine and
Malt Liquor License under M.G.L c. 138, § 15, for
Tavern in the Square, Littleton, MA
Tavern in the Square, 810 Constitution Ave., Littleton, MA
Requested by: Tavern in the Square

Action Sought: Approval

Proposed Motion(s)
MOVE that the Select Board vote to approve the application for a Change of Manager
for All Alcoholic beverages on-premises license under MGL C.138, §15 for Tavern in the
Square, 810 Constitution Ave.; for the hours of Monday through Wednesday 11:30 AM 12:00 AM, Thursday and Friday 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM, Saturday 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM,
and Sunday 10:00 AM -12:00 AM
Issuance of license is subject to ABCC approval.
OR
MOVE that the Select Board vote to deny the application for a Change of Manager for
All Alcoholic beverages on-premises license under MGL C.138, §15 for Tavern in the
Square, 810 Constitution Ave

Additional Information
Included in this packet:
- Application from Tavern in the Square
- Public Hearing Notice
- Lowell Sun Advertisement
- Comments from Police and Fire – no issues

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

2

02839-RS-0624

Received: AS
Date/Time: 5/13/26 – 12:15 PM
Revised:
Date/Time:
LEGAL NOTICE
LITTLETON SELECT BOARD
PUBLIC HEARING
CHANGE OF MANAGER
TAVERN IN THE SQUARE LITTLETON, LLC
810 CONSTITUTION AVE., LITTLETON, MA 01460
The Littleton Select Board will conduct a public hearing on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM in
Littleton Town Offices, Room 103, 37 Shattuck Street Littleton, MA; to act on the request for
approval of a Change of Manager, under M.G.L. c.138, §15; submitted by Tavern in the Square
Littleton, LLC, 810 Constitution Ave., Littleton, MA.
Days & Hours of Operation –
Monday through Wednesday: 11:30 AM to 12:00 AM
Thursday and Friday: 11:30 AM to 1:00 AM
Saturday: 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Sunday: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
A copy of the application may be seen at the Select Board/Town Administrator’s Office, Room
306, at 37 Shattuck Street, Littleton, MA. Comments thereon may be submitted in writing to
[email protected] or to the Select Board/Town Administrator’s office, 37 Shattuck
Street, Littleton, MA 01460; by noon on Wednesday, June 3, 2026; or in person at the hearing.
LITTLETON SELECT BOARD
Gary Wilson, Chair

5/14/26, 12:51 PM

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LITTLETON BOARD MA Legals
37 SHATTUCK ST
LITTLETON, MA 01460
978-952-2311
[email protected]
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From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Jeff Patterson
Lisa Montgomery; Steele McCurdy
RE: Tavern in the Square - Change of manager
Wednesday, June 3, 2026 10:17:52 AM
image001.png

No issues with this.
From: Lisa Montgomery <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, June 3, 2026 10:01 AM
To: Jeff Patterson <[email protected]>; Steele McCurdy <[email protected]>
Subject: FW: Tavern in the Square - Change of manager

Good morning,
Attached is a Change of Manager Application from Tavern in the Square. Please get back
to me with any comments.
Regards,
Lisa
From: Melissa Surber <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, May 1, 2026 9:25 AM
To: Lisa Montgomery <[email protected]>
Subject: Fw: Tavern in the Square - Change of manager

Warning – THIS EMAIL WAS SENT BY AN EXTERNAL SENDER

Proudly Independent, Consistently Excellent, Authentically Welcoming
MELISSA SURBER
General Manager

Tavern in the Square Littleton
p. 978.339.5372 c. 857.233.8926
[email protected]
810 Constitution Ave, Littleton, MA 01460
www.taverninthesquare.com
From: Melissa Surber
Sent: Friday, May 1, 2026 9:24 AM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: Tavern in the Square - Change of manager

Proudly Independent, Consistently Excellent, Authentically Welcoming
MELISSA SURBER
General Manager
Tavern in the Square Littleton
p. 978.339.5372 c. 857.233.8926
[email protected]
810 Constitution Ave, Littleton, MA 01460
www.taverninthesquare.com

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Steele McCurdy
Lisa Montgomery; Jeff Patterson
Re: Tavern in the Square - Change of manager
Wednesday, June 3, 2026 10:45:03 AM
Outlook-qioe22t3.png

Fire ok
Steele McCurdy
Fire Chief
Littleton Fire Department
20 Foster St
Littleton, MA 01460
978-540-2302

-Service -Compassion -Community -Trust -Passion -Integrity -TeamworkFrom: Lisa Montgomery <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, June 3, 2026 10:01 AM
To: Jeff Patterson <[email protected]>; Steele McCurdy <[email protected]>
Subject: FW: Tavern in the Square - Change of manager

Good morning,
Attached is a Change of Manager Application from Tavern in the Square. Please get back
to me with any comments.
Regards,
Lisa
From: Melissa Surber <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, May 1, 2026 9:25 AM
To: Lisa Montgomery <[email protected]>
Subject: Fw: Tavern in the Square - Change of manager

Warning – THIS EMAIL WAS SENT BY AN EXTERNAL SENDER

Proudly Independent, Consistently Excellent, Authentically Welcoming
MELISSA SURBER
General Manager
Tavern in the Square Littleton
p. 978.339.5372 c. 857.233.8926
[email protected]
810 Constitution Ave, Littleton, MA 01460
www.taverninthesquare.com
From: Melissa Surber
Sent: Friday, May 1, 2026 9:24 AM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: Tavern in the Square - Change of manager

Proudly Independent, Consistently Excellent, Authentically Welcoming
MELISSA SURBER
General Manager
Tavern in the Square Littleton
p. 978.339.5372 c. 857.233.8926
[email protected]
810 Constitution Ave, Littleton, MA 01460
www.taverninthesquare.com

7A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Department/Board Updates and Requests
Vote to approve exemption & disclosure under MGL 268A, §19
Requested by: Kristopher Dalen

Action Sought: Approval

Proposed Motion(s)
MOVE that the Select Board vote to acknowledge a Disclosure by a Non-Elected
Municipal Employee of Financial Interest and approve the exemption for Kristopher Dalen
as a municipal employee in accordance with MGL Chapter 268A, Section 19.
Additional Information
Included in this packet are the Disclosure Forms to be signed by the Select Board Chair.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

DISCLOSURE BY NON-ELECTED MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEE OF FINANCIAL INTEREST
AND DETERMINATION BY APPOINTING AUTHORITY
AS REQUIRED BY G. L. c. 268A, § 19
Name:

MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEE INFORMATION
Kristoper Dalen

Title or Position:

Member, Littleton Historical Commission

Municipal Agency:

Littleton Historical Commission

Agency Address:

37 Shattuck Street
2nd Floor, Room 207
Littleton, MA 01460

Office Phone:

978-540-2401

Office E-mail:

[email protected]
My duties require me to participate in a particular matter, and I may not participate because of a
financial interest that I am disclosing here. I request a determination from my appointing authority
about how I should proceed.

Particular matter

PARTICULAR MATTER

Please describe the particular matter.

E.g., a judicial or other
proceeding, application,
submission, request
for a ruling or other
determination, contract,
claim, controversy,
charge, accusation,
arrest, decision,
determination, or finding.

The review and approval by the Littleton Historical Commission of homeowner applications
requesting permission to install historical house signs, including the design specifications and
eligibility of the properties for such signage.

Your required
participation in the
particular matter:

Please describe the task you are required to perform with respect to the particular matter.

E.g., approval,
disapproval, decision,
recommendation,
rendering advice,
investigation, other.

homeowners, participating in discussions, and voting on whether proposed historical signs

Write an X by all
that apply.

As a Commission member, I am responsible for reviewing applications submitted by
meet the Commission’s criteria for approval. Separately, I am being paid by the
homeowners whose signs are approved to design and produce the physical signage.
FINANCIAL INTEREST IN THE PARTICULAR MATTER
_X__ I have a financial interest in the matter.
___ My immediate family member has a financial interest in the matter.
___ My business partner has a financial interest in the matter.
___ I am an officer, director, trustee, partner or employee of a business organization, and the
business organization has a financial interest in the matter.
___ I am negotiating or have made an arrangement concerning future employment with a person
or organization, and the person or organization has a financial interest in the matter.

Financial interest
in the matter

Please explain the financial interest and include a dollar amount if you know it.

Each sign would cost approximately $100-$120 each.

Employee signature:

Date:

7/16/2025

DETERMINATION BY APPOINTING OFFICIAL
Name of Appointing
Authority:

APPOINTING AUTHORITY INFORMATION

Title or Position:

Agency/Department:

Agency Address:

Office Phone:
Office E-mail
DETERMINATION
Determination by
appointing authority:

As appointing official, as required by G.L. c. 268A, § 19, I have reviewed the particular matter and
the financial interest identified above by a municipal employee. I have determined that the financial
interest is not so substantial as to be deemed likely to affect the integrity of the services which the
municipality may expect from the employee.

Appointing Authority
signature:
Date:
Comment:

Attach additional pages if necessary.

The appointing authority shall keep this Disclosure and Determination as a public record.
Form revised February, 2012

8A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Appointments
Fiscal Year 2027 Town Board/Committee Appointments
Requested by: Select Board

Action Sought: Discussion

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion dependent.
Additional Information
Included in the packet is the Board and Committee vacancy posting.
Additional information to be shared by the Town Clerk at the meeting.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

TOWN OF LITTLETON

Received: AS
Date/Time: 5/29/26 – 9:40 AM
Revised:
Date/Time:

PUBLIC NOTICE

CURRENT VACANCIES ON TOWN BOARDS
Applications are invited from residents of the Town of Littleton for the following Town board
positions appointed by the Select Board. Application forms are available online at
https://littletonmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php or at the Office of the Select Board/Town
Administrator - Town of Littleton, 37 Shattuck Street, Littleton, MA 01460. Application
submissions will be accepted and interviews/appointments will be made by the Select Board on a
rolling basis until the positions are filled.

APPOINTED BY THE SELECT BOARD:
• AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST
Two (2) Residents with Specific Experience – Term expiring June 30, 2028
• AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION
One (1) citizen-at-large - term expiring June 30, 2027
One (1) citizen-at-large - term expiring June 30, 2028
One (1) member (engaged in farming, employed in the agricultural field and/or
with knowledge/experience in agricultural practices / business) - term expiring
June 30, 2029)
• BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Two (2) members – term expiring June 30, 2029
• CLEAN LAKES COMMITTEE
One (1) citizen-at-large – term expiring June 30, 2028
One (1) Mill Pond Alternate – term expiring June 30, 2027
One (1) Spectacle Pond Alternate – term expiring June 30, 2029
One (1) Lake Matawanakee Alternate - term expiring June 30, 2029
• COMMITTEE FOR THE EXPLORATION OF REAL ESTATE TAX RELIEF
FOR SENIORS
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2027
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2028
• COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
Two (2) members – term expiring June 30, 2029
• CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Two (2) members - term expiring June 30, 2029
• COUNCIL ON AGING
Three (3) members - term expiring June 30, 2029
• CULTURAL COUNCIL
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2028
Four (4) members – term expiring June 30, 2029

• DISABILITY COMMISSION
One (1) member with a disability (or family member) - term expiring June
30,2029
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
• ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
(Three) 3 members – No expiration date
• HISTORICAL COMMISSION
Two (2) members – Term expiring June 30, 2029
• LITTLETON COMMUNITY TELEVISION (LCTV) ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
Two (2) members – Term expiring June 30, 2029
• PERMANENT MUNICIPAL BUILDING COMMITTEE
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
• PERSONNEL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2028
Two (2) members – term expiring June 30, 2029
• SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE
Three (3) members – term expiring June 30, 2029
• TAXATION AID COMMITTEE
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
• ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2029
One (1) alternate - term expiring June 30, 2027
Two (2) alternates – term expiring June 30, 2029

APPOINTED BY THE TOWN ADMINISTRATOR:
•

AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST
One (1) member – term expiring June 30, 2027

APPOINTED BY LELWD (Littleton Electric Light and Water
Department)
• FINANCE COMMITTEE
One (1) member - term expiring June 30, 2028

APPOINTED BY THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE
• FINANCE COMMITTEE
One (1) member - term expiring June 30, 2029

LITTLETON HOUSING AUTHORITY – JOINT APPOINTMENT
One (1) member due to failure to elect at the Annual Town Election of May 9, 2026 –
Term will expire in one year after the May 2027 Annual Town Election
LITTLETON SELECT BOARD
GARY WILSON, CHAIR

8B

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Appointments
Vote to appoint Jennifer Davis as interim Parks, Recreation and
Community Education Director at Grade 16, Step 10 on
Compensation Plan Schedule A
Requested by: Select Board

Action Sought: Interview / Appoint

Proposed Motion(s)
MOVE that the Select Board vote to appoint Jennifer Davis as interim Parks, Recreation
and Community Education Director at Grade 16, Step 10 on Compensation Plan
Schedule A, this is subject to approval of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Additional Information

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

•

Directed forestry operations including hazard mitigation, tree maintenance, planting initiatives, and sustainability
efforts.

•

Managed facility scheduling and permitting for athletic fields, recreation programs, farms, and public spaces to
ensure equitable access.

•

Guided policy development, strategic planning, and long-range visioning to elevate recreation services and citywide
quality of life.

•

Directed all aspects of project management including planning, budgeting, staffing, scheduling, monitoring, and
reporting.

YOUTH DIRECTOR
YWCA of Newburyport, January 1993-January 1998
•

Managed youth and family programs including summer camps, aquatics, fitness initiatives, and competitive swim
team operations.

•

Coached the YWCA swim team, developing training plans, supporting athlete development, and coordinating
meets.

•

Recruited, trained, and supervised program staff, lifeguards, camp counselors, and volunteers.

•

Developed program schedules, curriculum, and seasonal activities supporting youth development and community
involvement.

•

Coordinated facility use for aquatics and fitness programs, ensuring compliance with safety standards and
organizational policies.

•

Built strong relationships with families, schools, and community partners to expand program reach and
participation.

EDUCATION
BACHELORS OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION K-12
Keene State College, May 1993

CERTIFICATIONS
•

National Recreation Park Association: Certified
Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) - current

•

NRPA Director's School 2014

•

NRPA Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI),
Pending Spring 2026

PROFESSIONAL ORGNANIZATIONS AND LEADERSHIP

•
•

Massachusetts Recreation and Park Association
o President – 2008-2013
o Vice President – 2005-2008
o Conference Presenter
National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)
New England Park Association (NEPA)

•

NRPA Leadership Development Network & Women in Parks & Recreation (WiPAR)

•

9A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Town Administrator Update
Update on municipal operations, projects and initiatives
Requested by: James A. Duggan, Town Administrator

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion Dependent.
Additional Information

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Action Sought: Discussion

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

10A

Select Board Discussions
Introduction of Town Moderator, Cammy Bean
Requested by: Town Administrator

Action Sought: Discussion

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion Dependent.
Additional Information

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

10B

Select Board Discussions
Charter Committee Report Discussion
Requested by: Town Administrator

Action Sought: Discussion

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion Dependent.
Additional Information
Included in the packet is the final report from the Charter Committee and the Draft Charter
document.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Littleton Charter Committee
Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board
Submitted by the Littleton Charter Committee, June 2026

Committee Members: Betsy Bohling (Chair); Joe Knox (Vice Chair); Charlotte Dolenz (Clerk); Kevin
Brogan; Kyle Bubp; Tim Goddard; Karen McCloskey; Allen McRae; Rob Rounce
Consultants: Edward J. Collins, Jr. Center for Public Management, University of Massachusetts Boston,
Anthony Wilson, Esq., and Melvin Kleckner

Executive Summary
This report presents the Charter Committee's recommendations to the Select Board. It follows more
than fifteen months of structured review of Littleton's town government, carried out at the direction of
the Select Board in response to a July 2024 Government Structure Review by the Massachusetts
Department of Revenue's Division of Local Services. That review recommended the Town initiate the
process of developing a town charter 1.
The Committee's central recommendation is that Littleton adopt a town charter establishing a Town
Manager form of government, with clear reporting lines for department heads. The Committee further
recommends transitioning the Board of Assessors, Board of Health, Cemetery Commission, Parks and
Recreation Commission, Town Clerk, and Trust Fund Commission from elected to appointed status. The
committee also recommends a set of additional provisions that codify current practice, clarify
procedural roles, and strengthen transparency.
Recommendations are presented in three tiers, ordered by the Committee's view of their priority and
necessity:
• Tier 1 — Foundational Recommendations. Adoption of a town charter and establishment of the
Town Manager model. These items require a special act of the Legislature and cannot be
accomplished through bylaw alone. They are the Committee's highest-priority recommendations.

Table 1 in Annex C describes how the Committee addressed each of the six main recommendations included in
the July 2024 Government Structure Review by the Division of Local Services.

1

1
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

• Tier 2 — Significant Structural Changes. Transitions of specific boards and positions from elected
to appointed. The Committee recommends these changes on the merits but recognizes they are
matters on which reasonable people disagree, and on which the Select Board may choose to act
selectively or in phases.
• Tier 3 — Operational and Governance Provisions. A range of provisions throughout the draft
charter that codify current practice, clarify procedural roles, and improve transparency. These
items are broadly uncontroversial but together represent meaningful improvements to the
structure and predictability of town governance.
Items the Committee considered but determined were outside the scope of the charter, and that are
more properly addressed through bylaw, policy, or administrative action by the Select Board, are
presented in Annex A.
The full list of individuals and groups consulted over the course of the Committee's work is presented in
Annex B.

1. Background and Context
1.1 Why the Committee was convened
The Charter Committee was established by the Select Board in early 2025 in direct response to a
recommendation from the Commonwealth. In July 2024, the Massachusetts Department of Revenue's
Division of Local Services completed a Government Structure Review of the Town of Littleton and
recommended that the Select Board initiate the process of considering a town charter. The Select Board
accepted that recommendation and convened the Charter Committee to carry out the review.
The Committee's Charge, adopted by the Select Board, frames the work as follows: Littleton's
government structure is currently established through a combination of state laws, several town bylaws,
and Town Meeting votes that may not be reflected in the bylaws. There has been no comprehensive
review of the structure of town government in many years. The Select Board, accordingly, directed the
Committee to review the structure of town government, analyze the effectiveness of that structure,
and, where areas for improvement are identified, to make recommendations for changes. The Charge
specifically directs that the review should not prejudge that any changes are necessary, but should be
open to analyses and suggestions that changes are warranted.
The Charge identifies a non-exhaustive list of areas for the Committee's review, including: consideration
of shifting from a Town Administrator to a Town Manager form of leadership; the type of Town Meeting
(open or representative); the selection of town board and committee members; the selection of town
hall personnel; the size and terms of boards and committees; the division of authority between the
Town Manager and Select Board; budgeting and finance processes; provisions for referendums, recall,
2
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

and periodic structural review; and the distinction between matters appropriate for charter inclusion
versus bylaws.
The Charge also establishes that the Committee should refer matters outside the structure of town
government to the committees or boards charged with those responsibilities. The Committee has done
so where appropriate, and Annex A documents items that fall into this category.

1.2 What a town charter is, and why it matters
A town charter is the foundational governance document for a Massachusetts municipality, and
functions as the local government's constitution. It establishes the framework for how decisions are
made, how responsibilities are divided, and how residents engage with their town government. Once
adopted, the charter takes precedence over conflicting bylaws and provides a single, accessible
reference for residents, officials, and staff.
Littleton currently operates without a charter. Its governance structure is established through a
combination of state statute, town bylaws, historical practice, and Memoranda of Understanding
(MOUs) between the Select Board and elected boards that delegate selected powers to the Town
Administrator. This patchwork has worked, but it has produced inconsistencies in reporting lines,
personnel practices, and accountability that have become more visible as the Town's population and
operational complexity have grown.
Two further considerations informed the Committee's view of the value of a charter.
First, a charter consolidates information about town government into a single document. As the Town
continues to grow, the practical benefit of having a clear, current reference will increase. Even where
the Committee recommends preserving current practice, codifying that practice in the charter improves
predictability and transparency.
Second, certain structural changes, most notably changes to the reporting lines between department
heads and elected boards, cannot be accomplished by Town Meeting vote or bylaw alone. They require
a special act of the Massachusetts Legislature. A charter is the established vehicle for such changes. The
Committee was advised by the Collins Center, and confirmed in subsequent consultation, that a charter
is the only practical pathway for the reporting-line reforms that underpin a Town Manager model.

1.3 The Collins Center engagement
To carry out its Charge, the Committee worked with the Edward J. Collins, Jr. Center for Public
Management at the University of Massachusetts Boston. The Collins Center is the established resource
in the Commonwealth for charter review and municipal governance support. Anthony Wilson, Esq. and
Melvin Kleckner served as the Committee's principal consultants, providing analytical frameworks,
comparative research, draft charter language, and procedural guidance throughout the process.
3
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

The Collins Center's introductory framing shaped the Committee's approach throughout. The Committee
was advised to draft a charter not for current conditions but for the conditions Littleton will face in 10 or
20 years. Where the Committee considered structural change, it did so with reference to how the
structure would serve the town in the long term, not how it functions under current personnel or
current circumstances.

1.4 What the Committee was asked to produce
The Charge sets out a timeline anticipating that the Committee would meet for 18 to 24 months. The
goal, established at the outset, was to produce a draft report with any recommended changes by the
end of May 2026, followed by further public outreach with the objective of having a final report and
recommended changes ready for inclusion in the warrant report for the Fall 2026 Special Town Meeting.
If Town Meeting approves the proposed charter, the charter would then be submitted to the
Massachusetts Legislature for approval as a special act.
This report fulfills the Committee's obligation to deliver its recommendations to the Select Board. The
Committee has prepared the report with the understanding that the Select Board will review the
recommendations, propose any amendments it deems appropriate, and determine the form in which
the charter will be brought forward to Town Meeting.

2. Process Overview
2.1 Committee composition and meeting cadence
The nine-member Charter Committee was appointed by the Select Board following an open application
process. Applications closed January 29, 2025; the Select Board appointed the Committee at its February
3, 2025 meeting. The Committee elected its officers and held its first substantive meeting on March 3,
2025.
The Committee met twice monthly from March 2025 through May 2026, with adjusted schedules over
the summer of 2025 and around holidays. All meetings were held in person at the Littleton Town Offices
and were open to the public in accordance with the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law. Meetings were
broadcast live, recorded and archived through LCTV and the town website. Approved minutes for every
meeting are publicly available.
Across this period, the Committee held approximately 30 regular meetings, in addition to one public
forum (October 14, 2025), one public information session in an open house format (February 28, 2026),
and a joint working session with the Select Board on March 30, 2026.

2.2 Phases of work
4
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

The Committee's work proceeded in identifiable phases, organized around the structure of the draft
charter:
Spring 2025: Orientation, work planning, and the legislative branch. The Committee's earliest meetings
were dedicated to establishing leadership, adopting a work plan with the Collins Center, and conducting
a foundational review of Town Meeting structure, warrant preparation and notice, procedural rules, and
the role of the Town Moderator.
Summer through early fall 2025: The executive branch. The Committee turned to the roles and
responsibilities of the Select Board, the Town Administrator, and the question of whether Littleton
should transition to a Town Manager model. This phase included detailed analysis of appointment
authority, reporting relationships, budgeting responsibilities, personnel systems, and town facility
management. The Committee also conducted listening sessions with key department heads and town
leadership.
Fall 2025 through winter 2026: Elected and appointed boards. The Committee evaluated each of
Littleton's elected boards and commissions individually, applying an analytical framework provided by
the Collins Center and informed by direct engagement with the affected boards. This phase included a
public forum on October 14, 2025, designed to test the Committee's emerging direction with residents.
Winter and spring 2026: Draft charter integration and refinement. The Committee worked through
successive drafts of the charter, addressing the Finance Committee structure, financial procedures,
administrative organization, recall provisions, and general provisions. A lightly attended public
information session in February 2026 was followed by a joint working session with the Select Board in
late March, both of which produced feedback that was incorporated into subsequent drafts.

2.3 Public engagement and consultation
The Committee placed sustained emphasis on public engagement throughout its work. In addition to the
open meetings noted above, the Committee:
• Submitted updates to the town newsletter in May and July 2025, with additional updates planned
for distribution at Town Meeting.
• Established a public email address ([email protected]) for resident
questions and feedback.
• Hosted a public forum on October 14, 2025, framed around the question, "What kind of town
government do you want for Littleton?"
• Held a public information session on February 28, 2026 in an open house format, with visual
displays summarizing the Committee's major recommendations.
• Met directly with the chairs and members of every elected board whose status was under review,
as well as with the Town Administrator, Human Resources Director, Police and Fire Chiefs, Finance
5
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

Committee leadership, School Committee representatives, the Town Clerk, and the Light and
Water Department General Manager.
• Held a joint working session with the Select Board on March 30, 2026, providing the Select Board
with the draft charter and deliberation summaries roughly one month in advance and proceeding
through the document section by section.
A complete list of individuals and groups who attended, presented, or engaged with the Committee is
provided in Annex B.
The Committee also drew on external comparators. Most notably, in August 2025, Groton Town
Manager Mark Haddad presented his experience with charter processes in Groton and Grafton,
including the practical effects of moving to a Town Manager model on financial management and
operational coordination.

3. Recommendations
The Committee's recommendations are organized into three tiers reflecting its view of their priority.
Within each tier, items are presented with the rationale, key design decisions, and references to the
relevant sections of the draft charter.
The two most extensively deliberated questions, the adoption of a Town Manager model and the
elected/appointed status of specific boards, are addressed in greater detail in the Committee's two
deliberation summaries dated March 16, 2026, which accompany this report.

Tier 1 — Foundational Recommendations
These recommendations represent the core of the Committee's work. They concern the basic
architecture of town government and the matters that can only be accomplished through a charter and
special act of the Legislature.

3.1 Adopt a town charter
The Committee recommends that the Town of Littleton adopt a town charter substantially in the form
of the accompanying draft. Adoption of a charter consolidates the structure of town government into a
single document, takes precedence over conflicting bylaws and historical practice, and provides a stable
reference as the Town continues to grow.
The draft charter as currently structured contains thirteen articles, addressing in order: incorporation
and general powers; the legislative branch (Town Meeting); the Select Board; the School Committee;
other elected officers; the Town Manager; the Finance Committee; financial procedures; administrative

6
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

organization; town elections; recall; general provisions; and transition provisions [See Charter Articles I–
XIII].

3.2 Establish a Town Manager form of government
The Committee recommends that the charter establish a Town Manager form of government, with the
Town Manager serving as the chief administrative officer of the Town, appointed by and accountable to
the Select Board [See Charter §6-1, §6-2].
The substance and rationale for this recommendation are set out in detail in the Town Manager
Deliberation Summary (March 16, 2026), and are summarized here.
Under the current structure, the Town Administrator holds limited appointment and supervisory
authority. Many department heads have a direct reporting line to elected boards but report to the Town
Administrator under informal Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), which has produced uneven
accountability, inconsistent personnel and procurement practices across departments, and friction
when informal agreements break down. A Town Manager, by contrast, would serve as the chief
administrative officer with broad authority to appoint and manage department heads, oversee
procurement, and prepare a balanced budget for review by the Finance Committee and Select Board, all
subject to Select Board policy and oversight.
The Committee's deliberations were informed by a presentation from Groton Town Manager Mark
Haddad, by direct input from Littleton's Police and Fire Chiefs and the current Town Administrator, and
by extended discussion with the Select Board over the course of multiple meetings. Both the Police Chief
and Fire Chief expressed general support for a Town Manager model. The Committee reached strong
consensus across meetings from April 2025 through February 2026 in favor of the transition.
The Committee's deliberations produced several structural guardrails to accompany the Town Manager
model. These are addressed more fully in the deliberation summary but include:
• Police and Fire Chiefs. Appointed by the Select Board, not the Town Manager, while reporting to
the Town Manager for day-to-day operations. Both chiefs supported this arrangement, though
both also expressed a preference to report directly to the Select Board [See Charter §3-4(e), §62(b)].
• Town Accountant. Following the joint session with the Select Board, the Committee revised its
position to recommend that the Town Accountant be appointed by the Select Board, while
reporting operationally to the Town Manager. This change preserves the Town Accountant's role
as an independent check on the Town Manager and reflects the model used by a number of
comparable Massachusetts municipalities [See Charter §3-4 and §6-2].
• Exemptions. The School Department, the Light and Water Departments, and the Library remain
outside the Town Manager's authority, preserving their independent governance structures as
required or supported by state law [See Charter §4-2, §5-4, §5-5, §5-6].
7
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

• Consultation with boards. When appointing, evaluating, or removing department heads, the
Town Manager must consult with the relevant elected or appointed board, ensuring that boards'
input is meaningfully incorporated. Appointments must be made on merit and fitness alone and
must follow the town's personnel and hiring policies [See Charter §6-2(d)].
• Application transparency. All applications for appointed positions must be forwarded to the
Select Board along with the Town Manager's recommendations. This provision was added in
response to public input and provides additional transparency without disturbing the Town
Manager's recommending authority or the Select Board's appointing authority [See Charter §62(e)].
• Checks and balances. The Select Board retains authority over the Town Manager's appointment
and removal, over Town Counsel and audit functions, and over appointments to volunteer boards
and committees. The Finance Committee retains independent budget oversight [See Charter §34(e), §3-4(h), §6-1, §6-4, Article VII].
The most important point for the Select Board's consideration concerns the reporting-line reform at the
heart of the Town Manager model. The consolidation of department heads reporting under a single
chief administrative officer is the principal substantive change that requires a special act of the
Legislature. It cannot be accomplished by bylaw amendment or Town Meeting vote alone. A charter is
the established and necessary vehicle for this change.

3.3 Affirm Town Meeting as the legislative body and codify current practice
The Committee recommends that the charter affirm the open Town Meeting as the legislative body of
the Town [See Charter §2-1]. Approximately 74 percent of Massachusetts municipalities operate under
an open Town Meeting form, and the Committee found no basis to recommend a transition to a
representative model.
The charter formalizes two annual Town Meetings, Spring and Fall, reflecting Littleton's existing practice
[See Charter §2-4]. The charter also preserves a Town Meeting Report mailed to each occupied dwelling
at least fourteen days in advance, with the full text of warrant articles, proposed motions, town agency
recommendations, and concise explanations including fiscal impact [See Charter §2-10].

3.4 Preserve the elected status of specific boards
The Committee considered each elected board and commission individually and affirmed the elected
status of several positions, in some cases as required by state law and in others as a deliberate judgment
that the current structure should be preserved. The Committee recommends that the charter codify
these positions as elected:
• Select Board (5 members; 3-year terms) [See Charter §3-1, §3-2]
• School Committee (5 members; 3-year terms) — required by state law [See Charter §4-1]
• Town Moderator — required by state law [See Charter §5-2]
8
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

• Board of Light Commissioners (5 members) [See Charter §5-4]
• Board of Water Commissioners (5 members), with sewer authority language added per Chapter
290 of the Acts of 2020 [See Charter §5-5]
• Board of Library Trustees (6 members), retaining sole authority to appoint, supervise, evaluate,
and remove the Library Director [See Charter §5-6]
• Planning Board (5 members), with terms reduced from five years to three years [See Charter §5-9]
• Housing Authority (3 elected commissioners, plus state and tenant appointees) — required by
state law [See Charter §5-10]
In the case of the Light and Water Commissions, the Committee considered consolidation of the two
boards but ultimately rejected the change. Input from Light and Water Department General Manager
Nick Lawler and legal guidance indicated that consolidation would not change operational mechanics,
that the budgets would remain separate, and that no clear efficiency gain would result.
In the case of the Library Trustees, the Committee gave particular weight to research presented by
Library Trustee Katrina Hagberg showing that the substantial majority of Massachusetts libraries have
elected boards with sole director-hiring authority, and to the Trustees' argument that the library's role
as a "limited public forum" with First Amendment responsibilities calls for direct democratic
accountability.

Tier 2 — Significant Structural Changes
The recommendations in this tier concern transitions of specific elected boards and the Town Clerk
position to appointed status. The Committee's substantive analysis is set out in detail in the Elected vs.
Appointed Deliberation Summary (March 16, 2026); the summary below is intended to provide a highlevel view for the Select Board's consideration.
The Committee evaluated each board individually using a framework provided by the Collins Center,
applying as advisory criteria the competitiveness of elections, the degree of policy-making versus
implementation in the role, the technical or professional expertise required, the level of operational
integration with town departments, public familiarity with the role, and whether the role provides a
counterbalance to other centers of power.
The question of elected versus appointed status sits at the intersection of two legitimate values:
democratic accountability and operational effectiveness. The Committee's recommendations in this tier
reflect its considered judgment on each position individually, and are forward-looking in nature. The
Select Board may reasonably elect to advance some, all, or none of these transitions in the original
charter brought before Town Meeting, with the understanding that further changes can be made
through subsequent charter amendments once the charter is in place.

9
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

For any board or commission that transitions from elected to appointed status, appointments would be
made by the Select Board, not by the Town Manager or any single individual [See Charter §5-1(d)]. This
decision reflects the Committee's view that appointment authority for policy-setting boards should rest
with a multi-member elected body.
A summary of recommendations is presented in the table below. "Fully Committed" indicates the
Committee reached clear consensus or unanimous or near-unanimous agreement, with no significant
unresolved concerns. "Committed with Reservations" indicates the Committee voted to recommend the
change but with a narrow margin, dissenting votes, or unresolved implementation details.
Position / Board

Current

Recommended

Commitment Level

Charter Ref.

Town Clerk

Elected

Appointed

Committed with
Reservations

§5-3

Board of Assessors

Elected
(3)

Appointed

Fully Committed

Transition provisions
pending

Park and Recreation
Commission

Elected
(5)

Appointed

Committed with
Reservations

§5-7

Board of Health

Elected
(5)

Appointed

Committed with
Reservations

§5-8

Cemetery Commission

Elected
(3)

Appointed

Committed with
Reservations

Transition provisions
pending

Trust Fund Commission

Elected

Appointed

Fully Committed

Transition provisions
pending

Brief notes on each recommendation follow. Fuller rationale and dissenting views are presented in the
Elected vs. Appointed Deliberation Summary. Several elected officials objected to the Committee's
recommendations to convert their positions to appointed. The Town Clerk, Board of Health, Cemetery
Commission, and Parks and Recreation Commission each presented substantive arguments against the
proposed changes.
Town Clerk. Recommended for appointment to align with the broader principle that town employees
should be subject to professional management, and to enable formal succession planning and
performance oversight. The Committee gave substantial weight to testimony from Town Clerk Diane
Crory in favor of preserving the elected position. The Committee's initial position was to keep the Town
Clerk elected; that position shifted on a 6–3 vote in favor of appointment.
Board of Assessors. Recommended for appointment based on the low competitiveness of elections, the
technical expertise required for the role, and the fact that the Chief Assessor is already an appointed
10
Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

professional specialist. The Board members receive mandatory Department of Revenue training upon
election, suggesting the role's value lies in technical competence rather than democratic representation.
The Committee also agreed that, if changed from an elected to appointed board, the Board of Assessors'
current appointing authority for the Finance Committee should be reassigned (in the draft charter, to
the Water Commissioners) [See Charter §7-1].
Park and Recreation Commission. Recommended for appointment based on the expertise required to
set policy for programming and facilities, the rarely contested nature of elections, and the Committee's
judgment that the structure should serve the town long-term rather than reflect current personalities.
The Committee initially voted to keep the commission elected but reversed course in February 2026 in
favor of alignment with other policy-focused boards.
Board of Health. Recommended for appointment based on the technical and regulatory nature of the
role (Title V septic, food protection, disease control, environmental health), oversight of public health
enforcement, and the low competitiveness of elections. The Committee's position evolved over time,
from an initial preference to keep the board elected, to a hybrid model (three elected, two appointed),
to fully appointed. The committee voted unanimously on February 10, 2026 to recommend full
appointment, and reaffirmed that position following a joint meeting with the Board of Health on March
2, 2026, at which Board of Health members presented arguments for retaining the elected structure.
Cemetery Commission. Recommended for appointment based on the low competitiveness of elections,
the specialized skills required to manage perpetual care trust funds exceeding $900,000, and historic
gravestone conservation responsibilities. The Committee gave substantial weight to the Cemetery
Commission's concerns about consolidation under DPW and confirmed that the cemetery Trust Fund is
protected by Massachusetts General Law. The Committee further agreed that ringfencing the cemetery
operational budget should be a priority if the department is rolled into DPW.
Trust Fund Commission. Recommended for appointment based on low public visibility, low election
competitiveness, and the financial expertise the role requires. The Committee considered the possibility
of dissolving the Commission entirely (not all towns have one) but opted for appointment as the
preferable structural change.

Tier 3 — Operational and Governance Provisions
The recommendations in this tier are the substantive but generally less contested provisions of the draft
charter. Many codify current practice; others clarify procedural roles, address gaps in the current bylaw
structure, or strengthen transparency. The Committee considers these provisions important on their
own terms: a charter's value lies not only in headline structural change, but also in providing a current
and consolidated reference for the conduct of town government.
The Committee groups these recommendations under five themes.
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Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

Town Meeting structure and warrant procedures. The charter adds a Fall Town Meeting as a formal
counterpart to the existing Spring Annual Town Meeting, codifying current practice; preserves 14-day
notice for all Town Meetings; preserves the Town Meeting Report mailing requirement; specifies who
may submit warrant articles (elected town officers, multiple-member bodies acting by majority,
registered voters meeting statutory thresholds, and other persons authorized by law); provides that
articles submitted by multiple-member bodies have the benefit of Town Counsel review; and requires
the attendance of relevant town officials and department heads at Town Meeting when articles
affecting their agencies are on the warrant [See Charter §§2-4 through 2-10]. The Committee also
formalized the position of a Deputy Town Moderator, appointed by the Town Moderator, to ensure
continuity and address recusal situations [See Charter §5-2].
Select Board powers and constraints. The charter establishes the Select Board as the chief policymaking body of the Town, with executive powers vested in the Board [See Charter §3-4]. The Select
Board is responsible for formulating and promulgating policy directives for the town agencies under it,
and for working with other elected officers and multiple-member bodies to develop policy guidelines
that bring the operation of all town agencies into harmony. The charter explicitly prohibits Select Board
members from simultaneously holding any other elected town office, while permitting service as
appointed members of other multiple-member bodies [See Charter §3-3]. The charter requires the
Select Board to evaluate the Town Manager annually against mutually established goals, with the
evaluation a public record [See Charter §3-4]. The charter also clarifies the Select Board's role in policy
harmonization across boards and departments, reflecting the principle that the Select Board acts
through broad policy guidelines rather than day-to-day administration [See Charter §3-4(c)].
Finance Committee composition and financial procedures. The charter preserves Littleton's distinctive
multi-appointing-authority structure for the Finance Committee, with appointments distributed across
the Select Board, School Committee, Board of Water Commissioners, Board of Library Trustees, and
Town Moderator [See Charter §7-1]. The current appointing authority of the Light Commissioners is
replaced by the Water Commissioners in the draft charter, reflecting the Water Department's direct
stake in the appropriated town budget. The Board of Assessors' current appointing authority for the
Finance Committee is reassigned in connection with the recommended transition of the Board of
Assessors to appointed status. The Town Moderator's appointment to the Finance Committee must be
made at a public meeting, ensuring transparency [See Charter §7-1]. The financial procedures article
codifies the budget cycle, requires the Town Manager to submit a balanced budget and a ten-year
capital plan, and preserves the Finance Committee's responsibility for presenting the budget at Town
Meeting [See Charter §8-1, §8-2].
Administrative organization, reorganization, and town facilities. The charter establishes a defined
process for the creation, restructuring, or abolition of town departments, requiring a Town Manager
proposal, Select Board authorization, a public hearing, and Town Meeting approval where
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Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

appropriations are required [See Charter Article IX]. The Town Manager is given jurisdiction over the
day-to-day leasing, rental, and use of town facilities, except for those facilities under the control of the
School Committee, the Light and Water Department, the Library Trustees, and the Parks and Recreation
Commission [See Charter §6-2]. Longer-term leases continue to require Select Board approval.
General provisions, transparency, and periodic review. The charter strengthens transparency in board
operations, including requiring that minutes be promptly filed and posted, that rules and regulations of
town agencies be filed with the Town Clerk and posted online, and that meetings comply with the Open
Meeting Law [See Charter §§12-8, 12-9]. The charter provides for removal of appointees who fail to
attend a defined threshold of meetings [See Charter §12-10]. The charter includes a recall provision
drawn from Littleton's 2016 special act, with thresholds reduced to align with comparable communities
[See Charter Article XI]. Finally, the charter mandates a periodic charter review at least once every ten
years (in each year ending in 6) to ensure the document remains current [See Charter §12-6].

Implementation note: boards as policy bodies
The Committee flags a related point that the Select Board may wish to address as part of the broader
change-management process. As the Select Board itself now operates, all boards should function as
policy-making bodies: setting direction, working with the Town Manager and other boards, and
overseeing implementation through their department heads. Department directors should run day-today operations; boards (whether elected or appointed) should not. Reinforcing this distinction through
orientation materials, training, and policy guidance will support whatever structural changes the Select
Board ultimately adopts.

4. Closing
The Committee has presented this report as the product of more than fifteen months of deliberation,
conducted in public, with extensive input from town officials, board members, department heads, and
residents. The Committee is grateful to the Select Board for entrusting it with this work, to the Collins
Center for its expert support, and to the many individuals listed in Annex B who gave their time and
perspective to the process.
The recommendations in this report are preliminary and subject to further refinement based on Select
Board input, public engagement, and legal review prior to submission to Town Meeting and the
Legislature. The Committee remains available to support the Select Board as the draft charter is
reviewed, amended, and prepared for Town Meeting.

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Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

Annex A — Non-Charter Recommendations
The following items were identified by the Committee as recommendations or actions the Select Board may wish
to address, but which the Committee determined were outside the scope of the charter itself. These items are
properly addressed through bylaw, policy, administrative direction, or referral to the relevant town body.
Item

Description

Recommended Action

Review and
update bylaws

The Committee identified bylaws that are out of
date, contain errors, or conflict with state law, e.g.
the Housing Authority bylaw (incorrect statutory
references and composition). Adoption of the charter
will also supersede portions of existing bylaws on
matters governed by the charter.

Conduct a comprehensive bylaw
review

Develop a townwide org chart

Littleton lacks a current, public-facing organizational
chart showing reporting lines and functional
relationships across town agencies.

Direct the Town
Administrator/Manager to develop,
maintain and publicly share an org
chart.

Reorganize
Cemetery
Department
reporting

If the Cemetery Commission becomes appointed and
cemetery staff reporting moves to the Town
Manager structure, the cemetery operational budget
should be ringfenced. The Trust Fund is already
protected by MGL.

Address through Select Board policy
and budget structure if the Cemetery
Commission transitions to appointed
status.

Boards as policy
bodies, not
operational bodies

All boards should function as policy-making bodies,
with department directors running day-to-day
operations.

Reinforce through Select Board
orientation materials, training, and
policy guidance for boards and
committees.

Senior work-off
program

Whether senior work-off is exempt from prohibitions
on town employment for board members requires
clarification.

Refer to the Select Board for policy
clarification.

Review provision
of town emails

The Committee discussed provision of town email
addresses for elected and appointed officials. Town
email accounts support compliance with public
records and Open Meeting Law and separate official
correspondence from personal accounts.

Refer to the Select Board to review
policy related to town email
addresses for elected and appointed
officials.

Compliance with
minutes
documentation
and posting
requirements

The Committee was informed that many town
boards and committees do not consistently
document or post meeting minutes as required by
Open Meeting Law. The charter reinforces these
requirements, but practical compliance and
enforcement fall outside the Committee's scope.

Refer to the Select Board to
determine how compliance with
minutes documentation and posting
requirements can be monitored and
addressed across town boards and
committees.

Annex B — Individuals and Groups Consulted
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Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

The Committee engaged with the following individuals, boards, and entities over the course of its work.
This list includes presenters, guest speakers, joint-meeting participants, and individuals who provided
sustained input. Several Committee members hold other elected or appointed positions in town and
contributed perspectives from those roles; their affiliations are also noted. Members of the public who
attended meetings and provided public comment are not individually listed; their input is reflected in
the approved minutes for each meeting.
Charter Committee Members
• Tim Goddard, Town Moderator
• Joe Knox, Light & Water Commissioner
• Betsy Bohling, Trust Fund Commissioner
• Kevin Brogan, Personnel Advisory Committee member
Town consultants
• Edward J. Collins, Jr. Center for Public Management, University of Massachusetts Boston:
• Anthony Wilson, Esq., Public Service Manager
• Melvin Kleckner, Associate
Select Board
• Karen Morrison (Chair)
• Gary Wilson
• Mark Rambacher
• Matthew Nordhaus
• Charles DeCoste
Town administration and staff
• James (Jim) Duggan, Town Administrator
• Ryan Ferrara, Assistant Town Administrator
• Michelle Vibert, Human Resources Director
• Diane Crory, Town Clerk
Police and Fire Departments
• Matthew Pinard, Police Chief
• Steele McCurdy, Fire Chief
Light and Water Department
• Nick Lawler, General Manager, Littleton Electric Light and Water Department
Finance Committee
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Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

• Steve Venuti (Chair)
• Fred Faulkner
School Committee
• Justin McCarthy
Board of Library Trustees and Library staff
• Katrina Hagberg, Trustee (Board Treasurer)
• Stephanie Kraft, Trustee
• David Spanagel, Trustee
• Mark Rambacher, former Trustee
• Sam Alvarez, Library Director
Board of Health
• Kevin Davis, Chair
• Matt Wayson, Member
• Kevin Baker, Member
• Francis Daigle, Health Director (referenced)
Parks and Recreation Commission and staff
• Sol Marini, Chair
• Kate Jacobson, Commissioner
• Norm Young, Commissioner
• Peter Church, Commissioner
• Alicia Day, Parks and Recreation Director
Board of Assessors
• Fred Freund, Chair
• Kathy Miller, Chief Assessor
Planning Board and Planning Department
• Jeff Yates, Chair
• Mark Montanari, Member
• Daryl Baker, Member
• Anna Hueston, Member
• Maren Toohill, Planning Director
Cemetery Commission and Cemetery Department
• Andrew Sammarco, Chair
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Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

• Carolyn Mueller, Commissioner
• Ivan Pagacik, Commissioner
• David Badger, former Commissioner
• Thomas (T.C.) Bailey, Superintendent
• Ian Hefferman, Assistant Superintendent
External presenters and reference points
• Mark Haddad, Town Manager, Town of Groton — presented experience with charter processes in
Groton and Grafton (August 18, 2025)
• Massachusetts Department of Revenue, Division of Local Services — author of the July 2024
Government Structure Review of the Town of Littleton, which prompted the convening of this
Committee
Public engagement
• Public Forum, October 14, 2025 — "What kind of town government do you want for Littleton?"
• Public Information Session, February 28, 2026 — open house format
• Joint Working Session with the Select Board, March 30, 2026
All Charter Committee meetings, including those listed above, are documented in approved minutes
available on the Town's website and through the Office of the Town Clerk.

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Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

Annex C — Response to Government Structure Review
The July 2024 Government Structure Review by the Division of Local Services contained six
recommendations. The table below records how the Committee addressed each.
DLS Recommendation
(July 2024)

What the Review Recommended

Charter Committee Activity

Consider a town
charter

Initiate the process to develop a town
charter, through either an appointed
government study committee or an
elected charter commission.

Extensive deliberation: Committee
recommends adoption of a town charter
(Tier 1 — Foundational).

Elevate the Town
Administrator to Town
Manager

Adopt a Town Manager
administrative structure, with
authority to direct day-to-day
operations enhanced beyond that of
the current Town Administrator.

Extensive deliberation: Committee
recommends a Town Manager form of
government (Tier 1 — Foundational).

Review elected boards
and committees

Review the town’s elected positions
and boards for possible conversion to
appointed status.

Extensive deliberation: Each board was
reviewed individually and recommendations
included in the charter (Tier 1 and Tier 2).

Redefine the Director
of Finance and Budget
to CFO

Revise the bylaw to redefine the
Director of Finance and Budget as a
standalone Chief Financial Officer.

Discussed & deferred: The Committee
agreed the matter was significant but
determined it is properly addressed through
administrative action rather than specified
in the charter (Annex A).

Consolidate all public
works functions

Review the town’s public works
functions to consider a single
department encompassing water,
sewer, and cemetery operations,
exclusive of the Municipal Light Plant.

Extensive deliberation: The Committee
recommended to keep the Light and Water
Commissions as separate elected boards
and preserved water and sewer operations
under the independent Water Commission,
and recommended the Cemetery
Commission become appointed with staff
reporting through the Town Manager
structure (Tier 2).

Comprehensive review
of the bylaws

Conduct a comprehensive review of
the general bylaws, through a
separate bylaw review committee.

Discussed & deferred: The Committee
identified bylaws that are out of date,
contain errors, conflict with state law or
would be superseded by a charter and
recommends a comprehensive bylaw review
(Annex A).

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Littleton Charter Committee: Final Report and Recommendations to the Select Board, June 2026

Littleton Town Charter

****ber **, 2026

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Version: June 3, 2026

Table of Contents
ARTICLE I. INCORPORATION, SHORT TITLE, POWERS................................................... 5
Section 1-1. Incorporation ........................................................................................... 5
Section 1-2. Short Title ................................................................................................ 5
Section 1-3. Powers of the Town ................................................................................... 5
Section 1-4. Division of Powers .................................................................................... 5
Section 1-5. Construction ............................................................................................ 5
Section 1-6. Intergovernmental Relations .................................................................... 5
Section 1-7. Precedence of Charter Provisions ............................................................ 6
Section 1-8. Definitions ............................................................................................... 6
ARTICLE II. LEGISLATIVE BRANCH ............................................................................... 7
Section 2-1. Town Meeting ........................................................................................... 7
Section 2-2. Presiding Officer ...................................................................................... 7
Section 2-3. Town Meeting Location ............................................................................. 7
Section 2-4. Time of Meeting ........................................................................................ 7
Section 2-5. Notice ...................................................................................................... 7
Section 2-6. Rules of Procedure ................................................................................... 8
Section 2-7. Availability of Town Officials at Town Meetings ......................................... 8
Section 2-8. Special Meetings ...................................................................................... 8
Section 2-9. Town Meeting Warrants ............................................................................ 8
Section 2-10. Town Meeting Report .............................................................................. 9
ARTICLE III. SELECT BOARD ......................................................................................... 9
Section 3-1. Executive Powers Vested in Select Board .................................................. 9
Section 3-2. Term of Office and Vacancy ...................................................................... 9
Section 3-3. Prohibitions ........................................................................................... 10
Section 3-4. Powers and Duties ................................................................................. 10
ARTICLE IV. SCHOOL COMMITTEE .............................................................................. 11
Section 4-1. School Committee ................................................................................. 11
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Section 4-2. School Department ................................................................................ 12
ARTICLE V. OTHER ELECTED OFFICERS ...................................................................... 12
Section 5-1. Elected Offices in General ...................................................................... 12
Section 5-2. Town Moderator...................................................................................... 13
Section 5-3. Town Clerk ............................................................................................. 13
Section 5-4. Board of Light Commissioners................................................................ 13
Section 5-5. Board of Water Commissioners .............................................................. 13
Section 5-6. Board of Library Trustees ........................................................................ 14
Section 5-7. Park and Recreation Commission........................................................... 14
Section 5-8. Board of Health ...................................................................................... 14
Section 5-9 Planning Board ........................................................................................ 15
Section 5-10. Housing Authority ................................................................................. 15
Section 5-11. Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds................................................ 16
Section 5-12. Board of Assessors ............................................................................... 16
ARTICLE VI. TOWN MANAGER.................................................................................... 16
Section 6-2. Powers and Duties ................................................................................. 17
ARTICLE VII. FINANCE COMMITTEE ............................................................................ 19
Section 7-1. Composition .......................................................................................... 19
Section 7-2. Term of Office ......................................................................................... 19
Section 7-3. Eligibility for Appointment ..................................................................... 19
Section 7-4. Filling of vacancies ................................................................................. 19
Section 7-5. Powers and Duties ................................................................................. 20
ARTICLE VIII. FINANCIAL PROCEDURES ..................................................................... 20
Section 8-1. Fiscal Year ................................................................................................ 20
Section 8-2. Budget and Budget Process ........................................................................ 20
ARTICLE IX. ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION. .......................................................... 21
Section 9-1 Purpose..................................................................................................... 21
Section 9-2 Authority ................................................................................................... 21
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Version: June 3, 2026

Section 9-3 Public Hearing and Notice........................................................................... 21
Section 9-4 Allocation of Funds .................................................................................... 21
Section 9-5 Collective Bargaining ................................................................................. 21
ARTICLE X. TOWN ELECTIONS.................................................................................... 22
ARTICLE XI. RECALL ................................................................................................... 22
ARTICLE XII. GENERAL PROVISION ............................................................................ 24
ARTICLE XIII. TRANSITION PROVISIONS ..................................................................... 26
Section 13-4 TRANSITION TO APPOINTED POSITIONS ................................................ 27

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Draft Littleton Town Charter

ARTICLE I. INCORPORATION, SHORT TITLE, POWERS
Section 1-1. Incorporation
The inhabitants of the town of Littleton within the corporate limits as established by law
shall continue to be a body corporate and politic under the name "Town of Littleton".
Section 1-2. Short Title
This instrument shall be known and may be cited as the Littleton Town Charter.
Section 1-3. Powers of the Town
Subject only to express limitation on the exercise of any power or function by a municipality
in the constitution or laws of the Commonwealth, it is the intent and purpose of the voters
of the Town of Littleton to secure through adoption of this charter all powers it is possible to
secure for a municipal government under the constitution and the laws of the
Commonwealth.
Section 1-4. Division of Powers
The administration of all of the fiscal, prudential and municipal affairs of the town shall be
vested in an executive branch headed by the Select Board. The legislative powers of the
town shall be vested in a Town Meeting open to all voters.
Section 1-5. Construction
The powers of the Town of Littleton under this charter are to be construed liberally in its
favor and the specific mention of any particular power is not intended to limit in any way
the general powers of the Town of Littleton as stated in Section 1-3.
Section 1-6. Intergovernmental Relations
Subject to the constitution and laws of the Commonwealth, the Town of Littleton may
exercise any of its powers or perform any of its functions and may participate in the
financing thereof, jointly or in cooperation by contract or otherwise, with any state, or civil
division or agency thereof, or the federal government, or any agency thereof.

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Version: June 3, 2026

Section 1-7. Precedence of Charter Provisions
To the extent any existing by-law, vote, rule or regulation of or pertaining to the Town of
Littleton contravene or otherwise conflict with this charter, this charter shall take
precedence.
Section 1-8. Definitions
As used in this charter, the following words shall have the following meanings:
− "Charter", Littleton Town Charter as it may from time to time be amended.
− "Days", working days or business days, not including Saturday, Sunday and legal
holidays, if the time set is less than 7 days; provided, however, that if the time set is
not less than 7 days, every calendar day shall be counted, unless otherwise
specified as "working days" or "business days", in which case Saturdays, Sundays
and legal holidays shall not be counted.
− "Emergency", a sudden, unexpected, unforeseen happening, occurrence, event or
condition that necessitates immediate action.
− "General Laws", the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
− "Majority vote", unless otherwise required by law or this Charter, a majority of those
members of a multiple-member body present and voting; provided, however, that a
quorum is present; and provided further that those abstaining or voting "present"
shall not be counted as voting, although they shall be counted for purposes of
determining a quorum.
− "Minutes", the written report of a meeting created by a public body required by
Sections 18 to 25, inclusive, of Chapter 30A of the General Laws.
− "Multiple-Member Body", any town body consisting of two (2) or more persons
whether styled as a board, commission, committee, subcommittee or otherwise and
whether appointed, elected or otherwise constituted.
− "Quorum", unless otherwise addressed by general or special law or regulation, a
majority of the full complement of members of a multiple-member body.
− “Town”, the town of Littleton.
− "Town Agency", any board, commission, committee, department, division or office
of town government.
− "Town Meeting", open town meeting established in Article II, whether Spring, Fall,
or Special.
− "Town bulletin boards", the posting location for notices under Sections 18 to 25,
inclusive, of Chapter 30A of the General Laws and any other location that may be
authorized by by-law or vote of the Select Board.
− "Town officer" or "Town official", when used without further qualification or
description, a person having charge of an office or department of the town who in the
exercise of the powers or duties of that position exercises some portion of the
sovereign power of the town.
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− "Voters", registered voters of the Town of Littleton.
− “Warrant", the notice provided to voters in association with a Town Meeting or town
election as required by Section 10 of Chapter 39 of the General Laws.
ARTICLE II. LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
Section 2-1. Town Meeting
The legislative powers of the town shall be vested in a Town Meeting open to all voters of
the town.
Section 2-2. Presiding Officer
The Town Moderator, elected as provided in Article V, shall preside at all sessions of the
Town Meeting.
Section 2-3. Town Meeting Location
(a) Each Town Meeting shall ordinarily be held within the geographic limits of the town.
(b) A Town Meeting, at the sole discretion and by affirmative vote of the Select Board,
may be located within the geographic limits of a contiguous municipality only under
extraordinary circumstances. For purposes of this section, extraordinary
circumstances can include an expectation that the number of attendees will exceed
the capacity of otherwise acceptable town locations.
Section 2-4. Time of Meeting
There shall be a Spring Town Meeting held during the week of the first Monday in May and a
Fall Town Meeting held between the first day of September and the fifteenth day of
November, at a date and time to be determined by the Select Board.
Section 2-5. Notice
(a) Notice shall be given by posting attested copies of the warrant in at least three (3)
public places in the town, including the town’s website, not less than fourteen (14)
days before the day fixed for such meeting. The foregoing shall be deemed to be
legal notification of such meeting, and the legal service of such Warrant.
Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, a meeting shall not be in violation of
this Charter if, due to technical difficulties, the meeting is not posted electronically
for the fourteen (14) consecutive days prior to the meeting.
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(b) Notice for Town Meetings shall state the date, street address, and start time of such
meeting along with the warrant articles to be acted upon at such meeting.

Section 2-6. Rules of Procedure
The Town Meeting may, by by-law, adopt rules to govern the conduct of all Town Meetings.
Town Meeting procedures not otherwise prescribed by by-law shall be guided by the latest
published edition of "Town Meeting Time: A Handbook of Parliamentary Law, Johnson,
Trustman and Wadsworth, Massachusetts Moderators Association", as applicable, and the
discretion of the Town Moderator.
Section 2-7. Availability of Town Officials at Town Meetings
Every town officer, the chairperson of each multiple-member body, and the head of each
department shall attend all sessions of the Town Meeting, if an article appears on the
warrant affecting their multiple-member body or department.
In the event any town officer, chairperson of a multiple-member body, department head is
to be absent due to illness or other reasonable cause, such person shall designate a
deputy to attend to represent the Town Agency. If any person designated to attend the Town
Meeting under this section is not a voter, such person shall, notwithstanding, have a right
to address the meeting for the purpose of compliance with this section.
Section 2-8. Special Meetings
Special Town Meetings may be held at the call of the Select Board at its discretion. Special
Town Meetings shall also be held on the petition of two hundred (200) voters, in the manner
provided by General Laws.

Section 2-9. Town Meeting Warrants
(a) Warrants - Every Town Meeting shall be called by a warrant issued by the Select
Board, which shall state the time, date and place at which the meeting is to convene
and, by separate articles, the subject matter to be acted upon.
(b) Initiation of warrant articles - The Select Board shall receive all requests for
submission to Town Meeting of an article. The board shall include all which request
the submission of particular subject matter to Town Meeting and which are filed by:
(1) any elected town officer, (2) any multiple member body, acting by a majority of its
members, (3) any ten or more registered voters of the town for the Spring and Fall
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Town Meeting and any one hundred or more registered voters of the Town for any
special town meeting as detailed in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 39,
Section 10, (4) such other persons or agencies as may be authorized by law, or by
by-law.
1. All articles shall be submitted to the Select Board’s office on or before the
date fixed by the Select Board for the closing of the warrant. Each submission
shall include the proposed text of the article and a summary of its intent.
2. Articles submitted by multiple member bodies shall have the benefit of being
reviewed by Town Counsel for legal form prior to Town Meeting.
(c) Referral of warrant - Upon execution of any town meeting warrant, the Select Board
shall immediately cause a copy of the warrant to be forwarded to the Finance
Committee, Town Moderator and Town Clerk. A copy shall also be posted at the
locations utilized for notices posted under Sections 18 to 25, inclusive, of Chapter
30A of the General Laws.
Section 2-10. Town Meeting Report
For every Spring, Fall or Special Town Meeting, the Select Board shall mail to each
occupied dwelling at least fourteen (14) days prior to said meeting a Town Meeting Report
containing the full text of the articles as posted in the warrant; proposed motions and town
agency recommendations, if any; and concise explanations of each article, including the
fiscal impact if applicable. The Town Meeting Report for the Spring Town Meeting shall
include the Finance Committee's report to the voters.

ARTICLE III. SELECT BOARD
Section 3-1. Executive Powers Vested in Select Board
There shall be in the Town of Littleton a Select Board consisting of five (5) members.
Section 3-2. Term of Office and Vacancy
The members of the Select Board shall be elected for terms of three (3) years each,
arranged so that the terms of office of as nearly an equal number of members as possible
shall expire each year. Vacancies in the office of Select Board shall be filled by a special or
regular election in accordance with the provisions of the General Laws and this Charter.

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Section 3-3. Prohibitions
(a) No member of the Select Board shall simultaneously hold any other elected town
office.
(b) Members of the Select Board may serve as appointed members of other multiplemember town bodies.
Section 3-4. Powers and Duties
The executive powers of the town shall be vested in the Select Board. Except as specifically
provided by this Charter and the by-laws, the Select Board shall have all of the executive
powers given to the Select Board in the General Laws. The Select Board’s executive powers
include, but are not limited to, the following:
(a) Serves as the chief policy making body of the Town.
(b) Has authority to enter into intergovernmental or public or private agreements
consistent with law on such terms as it deems beneficial to the residents of the
Town.
(c) Be responsible for the formulation and promulgation of policy directives and
guidelines to be followed by all town agencies serving under it, and in conjunction
with other elected town officers and multiple-member bodies to develop and
promulgate policy guidelines designed to bring the operation of all town agencies
into harmony; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall be construed to
authorize any member of the Select Board or a majority of such members, to
become involved in the day-to-day administration of any town agency. It is the
intention of this provision that the Select Board shall act only through the adoption
of broad policy guidelines, which are to be implemented by town officers and
employees serving under it.
(d) Cause the by-laws, rules, and regulations for the government of the town to be
enforced and shall cause an up-to-date record of all its official acts to be kept.
(e) Appoint the town manager, town counsel, police chief, fire chief, town accountant,
and town clerk.
(f) Make appointments to, and removals from, volunteer boards and committees as
required by law, by-law, Town Meeting vote, or Select Board vote.
(g) Be a licensing board for the town with power to issue licenses, to make all necessary
rules and regulations regarding the issuance of such licenses, and to attach such
conditions and restrictions thereto as it deems to be in the public interest. The
Select Board shall enforce the laws relating to all businesses for which it issues
such licenses. The Select Board under this provision may delegate or reorganize any
local licensing authority or process notwithstanding any related General Laws.
(h) Ensure an annual financial audit is conducted. The audits shall be performed by a
certified public accountant, or firm of such accountants, who have no personal
interests, direct or indirect, in the fiscal affairs of the town. The accountant or firm
shall be approved by the Select Board upon recommendation by the Town Manager.
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(i) Upon recommendation of the Town Manager, approve a personnel system to
include, but not be limited to, position classifications and compensation schedules,
benefit programs, personnel and hiring policies and practices, and regulations for
town employment except for the municipal light and water departments and the
school department.
(j) The Select Board shall annually evaluate the job performance of the Town Manager
based on mutually established predetermined goals, standards and criteria for
performance that shall, at least in summary form, be a public record in accordance
with the General Laws.

ARTICLE IV. SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Section 4-1. School Committee
(a)
(b)

(c)

Composition. There shall be a School Committee consisting of five (5) elected
members.
Term of Office. The terms of School Committee members shall be three years.
The members shall serve until the successor has been sworn. Terms of office
shall be arranged so that at least one member is elected at each regular election
consistent with General Laws.
Powers and Duties. The school committee shall have general charge and policy
direction of the public schools of the town. The school committee shall have all
the powers and duties given to school committees by the General Laws, this
Charter, and by by-law. The powers of the School Committee shall include, but
are not limited to:
1. Appoint and remove the Superintendent of Schools.
2. Evaluate the performance of the Superintendent of Schools.
3. Review and approve the Littleton School District’s fiscal year budget and
capital requests in accordance with Article VIII.
4. Establish educational goals and policies for the Littleton School District
consistent with the General Laws and statewide goals and standards.
5. The School Committee shall conduct a public hearing on the Littleton School
District’s fiscal year budget and capital plan. The fiscal year budget and
capital plan shall be publicly available.

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Section 4-2. School Department
The school department shall be exempt from the authority of the Town Manager as
specified in Section 6-2 of this Charter.

ARTICLE V. OTHER ELECTED OFFICERS
Section 5-1. Elected Offices in General
(a) Offices to be filled by election: In addition to the Select Board as provided in Article
III, and the School Committee as provided in Article IV, offices to be filled by election
of the town’s voters shall be a Town Moderator, Light Commission, Water
Commission, Board of Library Trustees, Planning Board, and three (3) members of
the Housing Authority.
(b) Eligibility: A voter shall be eligible for election to a town office unless prohibited by
law. If an officer elected to a town office moves from the town during the term for
which the officer is elected, the office shall immediately be declared vacant and
filled in the manner provided in Section 5.1(d).
(c) Term of Office: the elected officer shall be elected for a term of three (3) years,
except a Housing Authority officer shall be elected for a term of five (5) years. The
elected officer shall serve until the successor has been sworn. Terms of office shall
be arranged so that at least one member is elected at each annual election
consistent with General Laws.
(d) Vacancy: Whenever a vacancy occurs in any office elected pursuant to this article,
or if there is a failure to elect a member of a multiple-member body, the remaining
members of the body shall give notice of the vacancy to the Select Board and to the
public. Notice of the vacancy and the date on which the vote is to be taken shall be
published not less than one week prior to said vote. The vacancy shall be filled from
eligible applicants by separate roll call votes of the remaining members of the body
with the vacancy and the Select Board, each voting independently. Both bodies
must agree on the same candidate for the appointment to take effect. In the event
the two bodies do not initially agree, they shall deliberate, jointly or separately, until
agreement on a candidate is reached. The person so elected shall serve until the
next annual town election. Vacancies shall be filled by a registered voter of the
town. No person appointed under this section shall be entitled to be listed on the
ballot as a "candidate for re-election" at the next regular town election. The process
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for filling vacancies in a regional authority or district membership shall be in
accordance with the applicable General Laws or intergovernmental agreements, or,
if none are applicable, in accordance with this section.
(e) Compensation for elected offices, if any, shall be set by by-law at a regular Town
Meeting.
(f) Elected town officers and heads of elected multiple-member bodies, or their
representatives, as well as the Superintendent of Schools, Library Director, head of
the Light & Water Departments, or other leaders of town agencies who do not report
directly to the Town Manager, shall be required to meet with the Town Manager at
reasonable times to effect coordination and cooperation among all town agencies.
Section 5-2. Town Moderator
Powers and Duties. The Town Moderator shall be the presiding officer of the Town Meeting,
as provided in Article II, regulate its proceedings and perform such other duties as may be
provided by the General Laws, Charter, by-law, or Town Meeting vote. Appoint a Deputy
Town Moderator to assist with or fill-in for the Town Moderator during Town Meeting.
Section 5-3. Town Clerk
Powers and Duties. The Town Clerk shall have the powers and duties provided that office by
the General Laws, Charter, by-law, or Town Meeting vote.
Section 5-4. Board of Light Commissioners
(a) Composition. There shall be a board of light commissioners consisting of five (5)
members.
(b) Powers and duties. In conjunction with the Board of Water Commissioners, the
Board of Light Commissioners shall appoint or remove the head of the Littleton
Electric Light and Water Department. The Board of Light Commissioners shall have
all of the powers of a municipal light board as defined by Chapter 164 of the General
Laws. The Littleton Electric Light and Water Department shall be exempt from the
authority of the Town Manager as specified in Section 6-2 of this Charter.
Section 5-5. Board of Water Commissioners
(a) Composition. There shall be a board of water commissioners consisting of five (5)
members.
(b) Powers and duties. In conjunction with the Board of Light Commissioners, the Board
of Water Commissioners shall appoint or remove the head of the Littleton Electric
Light and Water Department. The board shall have all of the powers of a municipal
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water commission as defined in Chapter 617 of the Acts of 1911, Chapter 186 of the
Acts of 1995 and Chapter 279 of the Acts of 2020. The Board of Water
Commissioners shall have all the powers of a sewer commission as described in
Chapter 40N of the General Laws. The Littleton Electric Light and Water shall be
exempt from the authority of the Town Manager as specified in section 6-2 of this
Charter.
Section 5-6. Board of Library Trustees
(a) Composition. There shall be a board of library trustees consisting of six (6)
members.
(b) Powers and Duties. The Board of Library Trustees shall appoint, supervise, evaluate,
and remove the Library Director. The Board of Library Trustees shall have custody of
and manage the public library and all property of the town related to the library. All
funds and property that the town may receive by gift or bequest for the purpose of
library support or maintenance shall be administered by the Board of Library
Trustees in accordance with the gift or bequest. The Board of Library Trustees shall
have all the other powers and duties given to boards of library trustees under the
Constitution and General Laws and such additional powers and duties as may be
authorized by this Charter, by-law or Town Meeting vote.
Section 5-7. Park and Recreation Commission
(a) Composition. There shall be a park and recreation commission consisting of five (5)
members.
(b) Powers and Duties. The Park and Recreation Commission shall conduct and
promote recreation, play, sport, physical education and other programs to meet the
leisure time needs of the community. The Park and Recreation Commission shall
have general charge and management of the town playing fields, beaches, parks,
associated public lawns and landscaped areas and of all property of the town
relating thereto, in coordination with the Town Manager. The Park and Recreation
Commission shall have all of the powers and duties given to park and recreation
commissions under the General Laws and shall have such additional powers and
duties as may be authorized by this Charter, by-law, or Town Meeting vote.

Section 5-8. Board of Health
(a)
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Composition. There shall be a board of health consisting of three (3) elected
members and two (2) members to be appointed by the Select Board. The Select
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Board shall appoint persons with expertise or experience in health-related fields
including, but not limited to, nurses, doctors, public health specialists,
veterinarians or infectious disease specialists.

(b)

Powers and duties. The Board of Health shall adopt rules and regulations relative
to the environment and the public health and shall have all the powers and
duties provided to boards of health under the General Laws and such additional
powers and duties as may be authorized by this Charter, by-law, or Town Meeting
vote.

Section 5-9 Planning Board
(a) Composition. There shall be a planning board consisting of five (5) members.
(b) Powers and duties. The Planning Board shall have all powers that are conferred on
planning boards by the General Laws and such additional powers and duties as may
be authorized by this Charter, by-law, or Town Meeting vote.
Section 5-10. Housing Authority
(a) Composition. There shall be a housing authority consisting of five (5)
commissioners.
1. One member of the housing authority shall be a tenant member appointed by
the Select Board and three (3) members shall be elected.
2. One member shall be appointed by the Executive Office of Housing and
Livable Communities for an initial term of three years. If the Executive Office
of Housing and Livable Communities does not fill a vacancy in the position of
that member within 120 days from the date that the vacancy is created then
the Select Board shall appoint a person by a majority vote to fill such position
for the unexpired term.
(b) Term of Office. Each of the elected members shall serve for a term of five (5) years
so arranged that the term of one commissioner shall expire each year, with the
manner of selection for such commissioners to be consistent with Section 5 of
Chapter 121B of the General Laws.
(c) Powers and Duties. The Housing Authority shall make studies of the housing needs
of the town and shall provide programs to make available housing for families of low
income and for elderly and disabled persons of low income. The housing authority
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shall have such other powers and duties as are assigned to housing authorities by
the General Laws.

Section 5-11. Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds
(a) Composition. There shall be a board of commissioners of trust funds consisting of 3
members.
(b) Powers and duties. The board shall have the management of all trust funds given or
bequeathed for the benefit of the town or the inhabitants thereof, unless the donor
in making the gift or bequest shall otherwise provide and all of the powers that are
conferred upon it by general law and such additional powers and duties as may be
authorized by this Charter, by-law, or Town Meeting vote.

Section 5-12. Board of Assessors
(a) Compostion. There shall be a board of assessors consisting of 5 members.
(b) Powers and Duties. The board of assessors shall annually make a fair cash valuation
of all property, both real and personal, within the town and shall have all the powers
and duties given to boards of assessors under the General Laws and such additional
powers and duties as may be authorized by this Charter, by-law, or Town Meeting
vote.

ARTICLE VI. TOWN MANAGER.
Section 6-1. Appointment and Qualifications
(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of G.L. c.40, §23A or any other General or Special
Law to the contrary, there shall be in the Town of Littleton a Town Manager
appointed by the Select Board for a term of up to three (3) years, who shall serve at
the pleasure of the board. The Town Manager shall be especially fitted by education,
training, and experience to perform the duties of the office. The Town Manager shall
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not have served in an elective office in the town government for at least one (1) year
before being appointed.
(b) The position of Town Manager shall be a full-time position. The Town Manager shall
devote the Town Manager’s best efforts to the office and shall not hold another
public office, elective or appointive, or engage in any business or occupation during
the town manager’s term unless the action is fully disclosed and approved by the
Select Board in advance and in writing.

Section 6-2. Powers and Duties
The Town Manager shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
(a) As the chief administrative officer of the town, shall act as the agent for the Select
Board and shall be responsible to the Select Board for the proper operation of town
affairs for which the Town Manager is given responsibility under this Charter.
(b) Supervise, direct, and be responsible for the efficient and coordinated
administration of all town functions, including department heads and their
respective departments, as may be authorized by this Charter, by-law, Town Meeting
vote, or Select Board vote. Nothing contained in this Charter shall affect the
operation of the Fire Department which shall continue to function under the
provisions of §42 of Chapter 48 of the General Laws, nor shall it affect the operation
of the Police Department which shall continue to function under the provisions of
§97A of Chapter 41 of the General Laws.
(c) The Town Manager shall have the power to delegate, authorize or direct any
subordinate or employee of the town to exercise any power, duty, or responsibility
which the office of Town Manager is authorized to exercise under this Charter, bylaw, Town Meeting vote or Select Board vote. All actions that are performed under
such delegation shall be deemed to be the actions of the Town Manager.
(d) The Town Manager shall appoint, based on merit and fitness alone, and remove all
department heads whose method of appointment is not otherwise defined in this
Charter, by-law, Town Meeting vote, or Select Board vote. For department heads
supporting an elected or appointed body, the Town Manager shall consult with the
respective elected board, commission or committee prior to such appointment or
any subsequent evaluation or removal.
(e) Recommend for Select Board appointment or removal of volunteer members of
multiple-member boards for whom another method of appointment or removal is
not provided for in this Charter, by-law, Town Meeting vote, or Select Board vote.
Recommendations for appointment shall be based on merit and fitness alone. All
applications for the appointments shall be forwarded to the Select Board along with
the Town Manager’s recommendation(s).
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(f) Fix the compensation of all town employees, consistent with the personnel system
established in section 3-4(i) of this Charter and within the limits established by the
overall approved budget, the town’s wage and classification schedule and collective
bargaining or other agreements.
(g) Administer personnel policies and any related matters for all municipal employees,
by adopting appropriate practices, rules, or regulations consistent with the
personnel system established in Section 3-4(h) of this Charter and to administer all
collective bargaining agreements entered into by the town.
(h) Negotiate, subject to the approval of the Select Board, all contracts with town
employees, except those otherwise excluded in this Charter, over wages and other
terms and conditions of employment. The Town Manager may, subject to the
approval of the Select Board, employ special counsel to assist in the performance
of these duties.
(i) Shall participate as specified in Article VIII – Financial Procedures.
(j) Serve as the chief procurement officer for the Town and award and execute all
contracts for services and supplies for all Town Agencies, in accordance with and
subject to the provisions of the General Laws, including the authority to appoint
such assistant procurement officers as the General Laws provide.
(k) Inspect and sign all payroll and expense warrants for payment.
(l) Keep the Select Board and the Finance Committee fully informed as to the financial
condition of the town and to make recommendations to the Select Board and to
other elected and appointed officials as the Town Manager deems necessary or
expedient.
(m) Ensure that complete and full records of the financial and administrative activity of
the town are maintained and render reports to the Select Board as may be required,
but not less than annually.
(n) Attend all regular and special meetings of the Select Board, unless excused.
(o) Attend all sessions of the Town Meeting and answer all questions addressed to the
Town Manager that are related to the warrant articles and to matters under the
general supervision of the Town Manager.
(p) Develop and maintain a full and complete inventory of all town-owned real and
personal property.
(q) Have jurisdiction over the leasing, rental and use of all town facilities, including land
and buildings, except those town facilities under the control of the School
Committee, the Board of Light Commissioners, Board of Water Commissioners,
Board of Library Trustees, and the Park and Recreation Commission. The Town
Manager shall be responsible for the maintenance and repair of all town property,
excluding school and library buildings and facilities managed by Littleton Electric
Light and Water Department.
(r) Perform such other duties as necessary or as may be assigned by this Charter, bylaw, Town Meeting vote, or Select Board vote.
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Section 6-3 Acting Town Manager
Pending the appointment of a Town Manager or the filling of a vacancy or during the
temporary disability of the Town Manager, the Select Board shall appoint a suitable person
to perform the duties of the office.
Section 6-4 Removal or Suspension
The Select Board may, by the affirmative vote of four (4) of its members and subject to the
employment contract, terminate and remove or suspend the Town Manager.

ARTICLE VII. FINANCE COMMITTEE
Section 7-1. Composition
There shall be a Finance Committee composed of seven (7) members, appointed as
follows: two members by the Select Board, one member by the Board of Water
Commissioners, two members by the School Committee, one member by the Board of
Library Trustees, and one member by the Town Moderator. The Town Moderator’s
appointment will be made at a Select Board meeting.

Section 7-2. Term of Office
The terms of the office are three (3) years.
Section 7-3. Eligibility for Appointment
No one shall be eligible for appointment to the Finance Committee who, at the time of
his/her appointment, is not a resident of the town, is an elected officer of the town or an
appointed officer with power to incur expense chargeable against appropriated funds. If a
member, during his/her term, becomes ineligible for appointment to the Finance
Committee, his/her place shall become vacant.
Section 7-4. Filling of vacancies
Vacancies shall be filled for the unexpired term by the officer or board whose appointee
has ceased to be a member of the Committee.

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Section 7-5. Powers and Duties
(a) The committee shall have all the powers of the appropriation, advisory, or
finance committees as defined by Section 16 of Chapter 39 of the General Laws.
(b) The committee shall have all the powers of reserve funds for extraordinary
expenditures as defined by Section 6 of Chapter 40 of the General Laws.
(c) The committee shall participate as specified in this Charter’s Article VIII –
Financial Procedures.
(d) The committee shall provide a report in the Town Meeting Report as specified in
Section 2-10 of this Charter.

ARTICLE VIII. FINANCIAL PROCEDURES

Section 8-1. Fiscal Year
The fiscal year of the Town shall begin on the first day of July. The budget and capital plan
shall be available upon request and on the town’s website.
Section 8-2. Budget and Budget Process
(a) Annually, the Town Manager shall meet with the Select Board, Department of
Finance, and Finance Committee to determine the budgetary goals for the
subsequent fiscal year and, prior to September 30, issue a budget message which
shall set forth guidelines and the calendar dates for developing the annual budget
for the next fiscal year. All town departments, including the school department and
library, must submit an itemized budget for the new fiscal year to the Town Manager
as prescribed by General Laws and this Charter. The Town Manager shall make
changes to the submitted budgets, as necessary, and inform each affected
department head of changes made to their submitted budgets. By January 2, the
Town Manager shall submit to the Finance Committee and the Select Board the
proposed balanced budget for the next fiscal year and proposed capital plan for the
next ten (10) years.
(b) The Finance Committee will meet with the Select Board in joint session to consult
with the Town Manager, department heads, and the Superintendent of Schools to
determine the next fiscal year budget and capital plan to be presented at Spring
Town Meeting.
(c) The Finance Committee shall be responsible for presenting the budget at Spring
Town Meeting and will be the first party recognized before any other person or
committee, when it shall provide an overview of the financial articles on the warrant.
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ARTICLE IX. ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION.
Section 9-1 Purpose
This article provides for the creation, restructuring, or abolition of the departments and
offices which perform the day-to-day operations of the Town.
Section 9-2 Authority
Plans to reorganize, consolidate, create, merge, divide, or abolish any town department or
office will be proposed by the Town Manager but require authorization by the Select Board.
Section 9-3 Public Hearing and Notice
The Select Board shall hold at least one public hearing on any proposed reorganization,
consolidation, creation, merger, division, or abolition of any town department or office.
Notice of the public hearing shall be given at least seven (7) days prior to the date of the
hearing by posting in at least three (3) public places in town, including the town’s website.
The notice shall include a description of the proposed changes and their anticipated
impact. Within sixty (60) days following the public hearing, the Select Board shall vote to
implement the proposed changes, with or without amendments.
Section 9-4 Allocation of Funds
Any action involving the creation, restructuring, or consolidation of a department that
requires an appropriation of funds shall be subject to approval by a vote of Town Meeting.
Section 9-5 Collective Bargaining
Nothing in this article shall be construed to limit the town's obligations under M.G.L.
Chapter 150E or other applicable collective bargaining laws. Any reorganization that affects
the wages, hours, or working conditions of employees covered by collective bargaining
agreements shall be implemented in accordance with applicable law and existing
agreements.

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ARTICLE X. TOWN ELECTIONS

Section 10-1. TOWN ELECTIONS
The regular municipal election shall be held on the first Saturday following the Spring Town
Meeting of each year. There shall be no preliminary town elections.
Section 10-2. NOTICE
Notice for elections shall state the election date and opening and closing hours of the polls,
along with all offices to be filled and the full text of any question to be presented to the voters.

ARTICLE XI. RECALL
A person who holds an elected office in the Town of Littleton, with more than 6 (six) months
remaining in the term of that office on the date of the filing of a recall affidavit, under
Section 11-2, may be recalled from office by the registered voters of the town of Littleton, in
the manner provided in this Charter.
Section 11-2. RECALL PETITION
Two percent of the voters of the town of Littleton may file with the clerk of the town an
affidavit containing the name of the officer whose recall is being sought, along with a
statement of the grounds for removal. The clerk of the town shall provide to the voters
petition blanks demanding the recall and shall keep copies of these printed forms
available. The petition blanks may be completed either by writing or typewriting. They shall
be addressed to the Select Board, contain the names of the voters who filed the affidavit
and the grounds for recall as stated in the affidavit, demand the election of a successor to
that office, and be dated and signed by the clerk. A copy of the petition shall be kept on file
in the office of the clerk in a record book maintained for the purpose.
The recall petition shall be returned and filed in the office of the clerk within 30 days after
the date upon which the clerk issued the petition and shall contain the signatures of at
least 15 per cent of the total number of voters duly recorded on the registration list of the
clerk as of the most recent preceding town election.
The clerk shall, within 48 hours after the filing, submit the petition to the registrars of voters
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who shall, within 5 (five) days, certify on it the number of signatures which are names of
voters of the town.
Section 11-3. DATE OF RECALL VOTE
If the recall petition shall be certified by the registrars of voters to contain the sufficient
number of signatures of voters, the clerk of the town shall immediately submit the petitions
to the Select Board. Upon its receipt of the certified petitions, the Select Board shall, within
48 hours, give written notice of the recall petitions and their certification to the person
whose recall is being sought.
If the officer sought to be recalled does not resign his/her office within 5 (five) days after the
delivery of the notice, the Select Board shall order an election to be held not less than 60
nor more than 100 days after the date of certification of the sufficiency of the petition by
the registrars of voters; but if another town election is to occur within 90 days after the date
of the certification, the Select Board may, at their discretion, postpone the holding of the
recall election until the date of that other town election.
If a vacancy occurs in the office after a recall election has been ordered, the election shall
nevertheless proceed as provided in this section, but only the ballots for the new
candidates shall be counted.
Section 11- 4. PROHIBITIONS
An officer whose recall is being sought shall not be a candidate to succeed himself at the
recall election. The nomination of candidates, the publication of the warrant for the recall
election and the conduct of the election shall be in accordance with the law relative to
elections, unless otherwise provided in this act.
Section 11- 5. CONTINUATION OF DUTIES
The incumbent shall continue to perform the duties of the office until the recall election is
held. If not recalled in the election, the incumbent shall continue in office for the remainder
of the unexpired term, subject to recall as before, except as otherwise provided in this act.
If the incumbent officer is recalled, the officer shall be considered removed upon the
qualification of a successor who shall hold office for the remainder of the unexpired term. If
the successor fails to qualify within 5 (five) working days after receiving notification of
election, the incumbent shall be considered removed and the position declared vacant.
Section 11- 6. RECALL BALLOT
All ballots used at a recall election shall contain the following propositions in the order
indicated:
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FOR THE RECALL OF (NAME OF OFFICER)
AGAINST THE RECALL OF (NAME OF OFFICER)
Adjacent to each proposition, there shall be a place to mark a vote.
After the propositions shall appear the word “CANDIDATES” followed by the names of all
candidates arranged alphabetically by surname. Adjacent to the name of each candidate
shall be a place to mark a vote.
If a majority of the votes cast upon the question of recall is in the affirmative, the candidate
receiving the highest number of votes shall be considered elected.
If a majority of the votes cast upon the question of recall is in the negative, the ballots for
the candidates need not be counted unless the incumbent officer has previously resigned
from office under Section 11-3.
Section 11- 7. SIX MONTH GRACE PERIOD
A recall petition shall not be filed against an officer within 6 (six) months after that officer
assumes office. In the case of an officer who has been subjected to a recall election and
was not recalled by that election, a subsequent recall petition shall not be filed against the
officer until at least 6 (six) months after the date of the previous recall election.
Section 11- 8. POST RECALL
A person who has been recalled from an office or who has resigned from an office while
recall proceedings were pending shall not be appointed to any town office within 12
months after the recall or resignation.

ARTICLE XII. GENERAL PROVISION

12-1 RESIGNATION OF OFFICERS
Any person holding an appointive or elective office may resign their office by filing a
resignation with the Town Clerk, and such resignation shall be effective immediately,
unless a time certain is specified therein when it shall take effect.
12-2 REMOVAL OF APPOINTEES
Any person appointed to an office, board, commission or committee may be removed for
cause by the appointing authority. Where the appointing authority consists of three or more
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positions a majority vote of the full membership shall be required for removal of an
appointee. Removal procedures for individual positions specified by this charter or the
General Laws shall supersede those in this section.
12-3 RELATION OF CHARTER TO BYLAWS, RULES, REGULATIONS, ORDERS, AND
SPECIAL LAWS
Where provisions of this Charter conflict with provisions of Town bylaws, rules, regulations,
and orders the Charter provisions shall govern.
12-4 SPECIFIC PROVISIONS TO PREVAIL
To the extent that any specific provision of this Charter shall conflict with any provision
expressed in general terms, the specific provision shall prevail.
12-5 SEVERABILITY
If any provisions of this Charter are held invalid, the other provisions of the Charter shall
not be affected thereby. If the application of the Charter or any of its provisions to any
person or circumstance is held invalid, the application of this Charter and its provisions to
other persons and circumstances shall not be affected thereby.
12-6 PERIODIC CHARTER REVIEW
Not less than once every 10 years in each year ending in a 6, a special committee shall be
established to review this charter and make a report, with recommendations, to the town
meeting concerning any proposed amendments that the committee may determine to be
necessary or desirable.
12-7 NUMBER AND GENDER
Words importing the singular number may extend, and may be applied to several persons
or things; words importing the plural number may include the singular. Words importing
one gender shall include all genders.
12-8 RULES AND REGULATIONS
A copy of all rules and regulations adopted by any town agency except for the school
committee and the public schools shall be filed in the office of the town clerk. The town
agency is responsible for the posting of their rules and regulations on the agency’s or the
official town website.
12-9 PROCEDURES GOVERNING MULTIPLE MEMBER BODIES
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a) Meetings - Meetings of any multiple-member body shall be held on the call of the
respective chairperson, or by a quorum of the members. Notice of all meetings shall be
filed with the Town Clerk and posted on the town bulletin board at least forty-eight (48)
hours in advance of the time set, in accordance with the Open Meeting Law, MGL c. 30A,
§20. The Town Clerk shall also cause notice of all meetings to be posted on the official town
website. Failure to post notice on the town website shall not prevent meeting from taking
place or invalidate actions taken at any meeting for which notice was properly posted on
the town bulletin board.
b) Rules and Minutes - Each multiple member body shall determine its own rules and order
of business unless otherwise provided by this charter or by town by-law and shall provide
for the keeping of minutes of its proceedings. These rules and minutes shall be public
records, and shall be kept available for public inspection. Per the General Laws these must
be posted within the next three public body meetings or within 30 days, whichever occurs
later.
12-10 LOSS OF OFFICE, EXCESSIVE ABSENCE
If any person appointed to serve as a member of a multiple member body shall fail to
attend four (4) or more regularly scheduled consecutive meetings, or one half or more of all
the meetings of such body held in one fiscal year, or refuses to communicate with or
appear before the appointing authority when invited, that appointed official may be
removed from their position in accordance with Section 10-2.

ARTICLE XIII. TRANSITION PROVISIONS
Section 13-1 CONTINUATION OF GOVERNMENT
All persons appointed or elected to positions at town agencies shall continue to perform
their duties until they are reappointed or reelected, successors to their respective positions
are duly sworn, or their duties have been transferred and assumed by another town agency
in accordance with this charter.
Section 13-2 CONTINUATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL
Upon adoption of this charter, a person holding a town office or a position in the
administrative service of the town or a person holding employment under the town shall
retain that person’s office, position or position of employment and shall continue to
perform the duties of that person’s office, position or position of employment until
26

Version: June 3, 2026

provision shall have been made for the performance of those duties by another person or
agency; provided, however, that a person in the permanent service of the town shall not
forfeit their pay grade or time in the service of the town as a result of the adoption of this
charter; provided further, that this section shall not provide a person holding an
administrative office or position or a person serving in the employment of the town on the
effective date of this charter with any greater rights or privileges with regard to that person’s
continued service or employment with the town than that person had before the effective
date of this charter. Nothing in this paragraph shall impair the rights of any person under an
individual employment contract or collective bargaining agreement.
Section 13-3 TRANSFER OF RECORDS AND PROPERTY
All records, property and equipment of an office, department or agency or part thereof, the
powers and duties of which are assigned in whole or in part to another office or agency,
shall be transferred immediately to the office, department or agency to which the powers
and duties are assigned.
Section 13-4 TRANSITION TO APPOINTED POSITIONS
Once final determination of which, if any, positions/boards will be included in the charter
as changing from elected to appointed, this section will define for each of those
positions/boards the structural details.

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Version: June 3, 2026

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

10C

Select Board Discussions
Select Board Meeting Schedule and Special Town Meeting
Requested by: Town Administrator

Action Sought: Discussion Dependent / Approval

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion dependent. If necessary: MOVE that the Board vote to schedule regular
meetings for the remainder of 2026 as reflected (and updated) in the attached schedule.
And
MOVE that the Select Board vote to approve the October 27, 2026, Special Town
Meeting Schedule as reflected (and updated) in the attached schedule.
Additional Information
Included in the Board’s packet is a proposed Select Board calendar from July –
December 2026 and a draft the Special Town Meeting schedule.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

DRAFT Littleton Select Board Meeting Schedule
July-December 2026
Friday July 3rd – July 4th Observed
Saturday, July 4th – July 4th Holiday
Monday, July 13th – Select Board Meeting
Monday, July 27th – Select Board Meeting (optional – if needed)
Monday, August 10th – Select Board Meeting (Open October XXth Special Town Meeting
Warrant)
Monday, August 31st – Select Board Meeting
Monday, September 7th – Labor Day
Monday, September 14th – Select Board Meeting
Monday, September 28th – Select Board Meeting
Sunday, September 21st – Yom Kippur
Monday, October 5th - Select Board Meeting
Monday, October 12th - Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Monday, October 19th – Select Board Meeting
Tuesday, October 27th – Special Town Meeting and Select Board Meeting
Monday, November 9th – Select Board Meeting (Tax Classification Hearing)
Wednesday, November 11th - Veterans Day
Monday, November 23rd – Select Board Meeting
Thursday, November 26th – Thanksgiving Day
Monday, December 7th – Select Board Meeting
Monday, December 21st – Select Board Meeting
Friday, December 25th – Christmas Day

SPECIAL TOWN MEETING TIMELINE - Draft
Tuesday, October 27, 2026 Special Town Meeting
Note: Election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Activity
Deadline for submission of voter-petitioned zoning articles
[90 days prior to STM, per Select Board’s policy]
Select Board vote to refer any voter-petitioned zoning
articles to the Planning Board [M.G.L. c 40A §5]
Select Board vote to open the town meeting warrant
Deadline for Boards, Committees, Commissions,
Departments to submit articles in draft form (i.e.
placeholders) to the Board of Select Board’s Office
Town Meeting warrant closes, also the Citizen Petition
Deadline
Select Board vote to insert articles on STM warrant
Select Board determine the order of articles in the warrant
Select Board vote on any ballot questions to be transmitted
to the Town Clerk [must be at least 40 days prior to
election, per M.G.L. c. 54, §42C]
Select Board recommendations on articles
Hearings on zoning amendments, road acceptances [if any]
Town Meeting warrant(s) posted

Town Meeting Report to printer
Town Meeting Report delivered to Post Office for mailing
Town Meeting Report mailed to all occupied dwellings per
Town Code §41-3 [14 days prior to ATM]
Special Town Meeting convenes per Town Code §41-1
Town Election

Date
Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at noon (90th day is
7/29)
Monday, August 10, 2026
Monday, August 10, 2026
Friday, September 11, 2026 at noon (45th day
is 9/12)
Friday, September 11, 2026 at noon (45th day
is 9/13)
Monday, September 14, 2026
Monday, September 14, 2026
Monday, September 28, 2026
(40th day is September 24th)
Monday, September 14, 2026
Month of September 2026
Tuesday, October 20, 2026 (24th day is 10/3;
Note, Town Meeting Warrant must be posted
at least 7 days prior to the Annual Town
Meeting)
Thursday, September 24, 2026
Thursday, October 8, 2026
By Tuesday, October 13, 2026 (14th day is
10/13)
Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at 7 PM
Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Town Code §41-3. Town Meeting Report. For every annual and special town meeting, the Select Board shall mail to each
occupied dwelling at least fourteen (14) days prior to said meeting a Town Meeting Report containing the full text of the
articles as posted in the warrant; proposed motions and town board recommendations, if any; and concise explanations
of each article, including the fiscal impact of any financial articles. The Town Meeting Report for the annual town meeting
shall include the Finance Committee's report to the voters.

Final Special Town Meeting Timeline

10D

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Select Board Discussions
Discussion and potential assignment of the Select Board
member/liaisons to Town Boards and Committees
Requested by: Town Administrator

Action Sought: Discussion / Assignment

Proposed Motion(s)
Move that the Select Board vote to reassign their committee member/liaisons and
representatives per the discussion at the June 8th Select Board meeting.
Additional Information
Included in the packet is a listing of current Select Board committee liaisons (non-voting
participation) and committee representatives (voting participation). The Select Board is
being asked to review the current list and reassign the appointments as members deem
appropriate.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

10E

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Select Board Discussions
VFW Lease
Requested by: Town Administrator

Action Sought: Discussion

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion dependent.
Additional Information
Current lease expires June 30, 2026. Attached is the draft new lease (3-year term). The
terms for the new lease are very similar (changes to dates and names). The document was
reviewed by Town Counsel.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

LEASE AGREEMENT
This Lease Agreement (this "Lease") is entered into on this _8th day of June, 2026 by and
between the Town of Littleton, a Massachusetts municipal corporation acting by and through its
Select Board ("Lessee"), and the Littleton Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6556, Inc. a Massachusetts
nonprofit corporation with its offices located at, 21 Taylor Street, Littleton, MA 01460 ("Lessor").
Lessee and Lessor are each a "Party" and collectively, the "Parties." The term of this Lease shall
commence on July 1, 2026 (“Commencement Date”) and terminate on June 30, 2029.
Recitals
Whereas, Lessor is a post of a congressionally chartered veterans’ organization and has
been in operation since 1948;
Whereas, Lessor is the owner and primary occupant of certain land and buildings located at
21 Taylor Street, Littleton, MA 01460 (the “Property”);
Whereas, Lessee desires to secure suitable headquarters for the Lessee and certain other
congressionally chartered veterans’ organizations including the American Legion Post and all other
organizations listed in G.L. c. 40, § 9 (“Users”);
Whereas, Lessee is authorized under G.L. c. 40, § 9, to lease for a period not exceeding
five years buildings or portions thereof for the purpose of providing suitable headquarters for certain
veterans’ organizations;
Now, therefore, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants and
agreements herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, Lessee and Lessor
hereby agree as follows:
1.
Use of Premises. Lessor grants to the Users, during the period commencing on the
Commencement Date of this Lease and ending upon the expiration or earlier termination of this
Lease, a non-exclusive right of access to the Property for the purposes of holding meetings and other
events consistent with the purposes set forth in the Users’ respective Articles of Organization and
Charters at times that are mutually agreeable between the Lessor and the Users; provided that Users
shall be permitted access for a minimum of 15 hours per week.
2.
Utilities. Lessor shall be solely responsible for providing, and paying for, all
electrical and other utilities of sufficient capacity to serve Lessee's use of the Premises.
3.
Term. The term of this Lease shall commence on the Commencement Date, hereof
and, unless earlier terminated in accordance with the provisions of this Lease, shall terminate on June
30, 2029.
Page 1 of 4

4.
Rent. The rent shall be $10,000 / year, subject to annual appropriation by Littleton
Town Meeting, payable in four equal payments on the commencement date and every three months
thereafter, in advance, so long as this Lease is in force.
5.
Indemnification; Limitation on Liability. Lessor shall indemnify, hold
harmless, and defend Lessee from any and all claims arising out of the use of the Premises by any
Users under this Lease. Neither party to this Lease shall be liable to the other for any direct,
indirect, consequential, punitive or special damages, loss of profit or the like arising out the use of
the Premises under this Lease.
6.
No Limitation of Regulatory Authority. The Parties acknowledge that nothing
in this Lease shall be deemed to be an agreement by Lessee to issue or cause the issuance of any
Governmental Approval, or to limit or otherwise affect the ability of Lessee or any regulatory
authority of Lessee to fulfill its regulatory mandate or execute its regulatory powers consistent with
applicable legal requirements.
7.
Amendments. This Lease may be amended only in writing signed by Lessee and
Lessor or their respective successors in interest.
8.
Notices. Any notice required or permitted to be given in writing under this Lease
shall be (a) mailed by U.S. Postal Service certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested,
(b) sent by overnight courier service, or (c) personally delivered to a representative of the receiving
Party, and shall be deemed delivered upon receipt or when delivery is refused. All such
communications shall be mailed, sent or delivered, addressed to the Party for whom they are
intended and to the Party's attorney as a courtesy, at the address set forth below. A Party may
change its address and contact information by providing notice of the same in accordance with the
provisions of this section:
If to Lessee:
Town Administrator
Littleton Town Offices
37 Shattuck Street
3rd Floor, Room 306
Littleton, MA 01460
If to Lessor:
Post Commander
Littleton Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6556, Inc.
21 Taylor Street
Littleton, MA 01460
Page 2 of 4

9.
Waiver. Failure of either Party to complain of any act or omission on the part of
the other Party, no matter how long the same may continue, shall not be deemed to be a waiver by
said Party of any of its rights hereunder. No waiver by either Party at any time, express or implied,
of any breach of any provision of this Lease shall be deemed a waiver of a breach of any other provision
of this Lease or a consent to any subsequent breach of the same or any other provision. If any action
by either Party shall require the consent or approval of the other Party, the other Party's consent to
or approval of such action on any one occasion shall not be deemed a consent to or approval of said
action on any subsequent occasion or a consent to or approval of any other action on any subsequent
occasion.
10.
Captions. The captions and headings throughout this Lease are for convenience
of reference only and the words contained therein shall in no way be held or deemed to define,
limit, explain, modify, amplify or add to the interpretation, construction or meaning of any
provisions of, or the scope or intent of this Lease, nor in any way affect this Lease, and shall have
no legal effect.
11.
Severability. If any term or provision of this Lease or the application thereof to
any person or circumstances shall, to any extent, be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of this
Lease, or the application of such term or provision to persons or circumstances other than those as
to which it is held invalid or unenforceable shall not be affected thereby, and each term and
provision of this Lease shall be valid and be enforced to the fullest extent permitted by law.
12.
Choice of Law. This Lease shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts notwithstanding any laws regarding conflicts of laws, and any
claims or dispute relating to this Lease shall be brought in courts within the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, and the Parties hereby assent to the jurisdiction of such courts. Each Party hereby
consents to service of process in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in respect of actions, suits or
proceedings arising out of or in connection with this Lease or the transactions contemplated by this
Lease.
13.
Binding Effect. This Lease and its rights, privileges, duties and obligations shall
inure to the benefit of and be binding upon each of the Parties hereto, together with their
respective successors and permitted assigns.
14.
Counterparts. This Lease may be executed in counterparts, which shall together
constitute one and the same agreement. Facsimile signatures shall have the same effect as original
signatures and each Party consents to the admission in evidence of a facsimile or photocopy of this
Lease in any court proceedings between the parties.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Lease on the day and year first
above written.
Page 3 of 4

LESSEE:
TOWN OF LITTLETON
By its SELECT BOARD

GARY WILSON, CHAIR

CHARLES DECOSTE, VICE CHAIR

MARK RAMBACHER, CLERK

KAREN MORRISON

KYLE BUBP

LESSOR:
LITTLETON VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS POST 6556

_____________________________
MICHAEL KIRENAN JR.
COMMANDER

Page 4 of 4

10F

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Select Board Discussions
Policy on Use of Bond-Finance Municipal Facilities
Requested by: Town Administrator

Action Sought: Discussion

Proposed Motion(s)
Move to approve the policy on use of bond-financed municipal facilities
Additional Information
The policy and guidelines are included. An update will be provided at the meeting.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

May 2026

Bond-Financed Facilities Use & Rental Compliance Guide
This guide is intended to assist municipal departments, boards, and staff in understanding and
managing the use of facilities financed through tax-exempt bonds.
The document provides practical operational guidance regarding the use, rental, leasing, scheduling,
and management of bond-financed municipal facilities. It includes a general overview of private use
concerns under IRS regulations, an operational flow chart, examples of commonly permitted activities,
red flag indicators, best practices, review considerations, and sample application information to assist
departments in evaluating proposed facility uses and agreements.
The guide is designed to help staff identify activities that may create potential private use concerns,
including leases, rentals, vendor or concession agreements, sponsorships, naming rights, exclusive use
arrangements, recurring private activities, equipment installations, long-term operational arrangements,
and other non-governmental uses of bond-financed facilities.
The document also outlines recommended internal review and coordination practices intended to help
protect the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds while allowing departments to continue effectively
operating, scheduling, and utilizing municipal facilities for public and community purposes.
This guide is intended as an operational resource only and does not constitute legal or tax advice.
Departments should coordinate with the Town Administrator’s Office, Finance Director, Town
Counsel, and Bond Counsel, as appropriate, when questions arise regarding proposed uses or
agreements involving bond-financed facilities.
Why This Matters?
Improper use of bond-financed facilities can jeopardize the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds and
create financial consequences for the Town.

Rule of Thumb
Generally acceptable uses of bond-financed municipal facilities are temporary, non-exclusive, publicly
available activities. Examples may include routine government operations, public meetings, community
events, short-term room reservations, and standard recreational or civic uses available to the public.
IMPORTANT: Activities that involve long-term arrangements, exclusive use rights, operational control
by a private party, leases, rentals, vendor agreements, sponsorships, naming rights, recurring
commercial activity, or other non-governmental uses may create potential private use concerns under
the IRS regulations and require additional review before approval.
When questions arise, departments should coordinate with the Town Administrator’s Office before
entering into agreements or approving uses involving outside organizations or private entities.

1

May 2026

Operational Flow Chart – Bond-Financed Municipal Facilities
STEP 1
Is the facility bond-financed or constructed/improved using tax-exempt bond financing?
If YES, proceed to STEP 2.
If NO, this guide does not apply.

STEP 2

Is the proposed use temporary, non-exclusive, and generally available to the public under normal Town
procedures?

Examples may include:
•
•
•
•

Public meetings
Community events
Short-term room reservations
Civic or educational activities

If YES, the use is generally permissible under this guide. Continue to monitor for any unusual terms or
private arrangements.
If NO or UNSURE, proceed to STEP 3 for additional review considerations.

STEP 3
Does the proposed activity involve any of the following?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Lease or rental agreement
Exclusive or priority use rights
Sponsorship, advertising, or naming rights
Vendor, concession, or commercial activity
Long-term or recurring arrangement
Operational control by a non-Town entity
Private or recurring organizational use
Equipment installation or storage rights

If YES or UNSURE, additional review is required. Coordinate with the Town Administrator’s Office
for additional guidance.
If NO, the use is generally permissible under this guide.
2

May 2026

Are Any Red Flags Present?

Exclusive use, recurring commercial activity, advertising, sponsorships, leases, storage rights,
equipment installation, long-term agreements, or revenue-sharing arrangements.
Red Flag Examples:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Exclusive sports academy use
Multi-year tournament agreements
Corporate sponsorship arrangements
Vendor concession agreements
Exclusive turf field rights
Private vendor operation
Dedicated office space
Concession agreements
Solar or utility agreements

3

May 2026

Usually OK
•
•
•
•
•

One-day community events
Public meetings
Standard field or room permits
Civic programs
Temporary recreational use

Requires Review
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Long-term leases
Food service agreements
Naming rights
Vendor operations
Cell tower installations
Solar agreements
Exclusive sports programs

4

May 2026

Best Practices

DO:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Use standard applications and fee schedules
Maintain Town operational control
Keep agreements revocable
Document approvals, agreements, and payments
Ask questions early when potential private use concerns may exist
Be mindful of insurance requirements and obtain proof of insurance when appropriate to help
protect the Town from liability associated with outside organizations, vendors, contractors, or
special events

AVOID:
•
•
•
•
•

Exclusive long-term arrangements
Informal side agreements
Preferential access without review
Permanent private occupation of spaces
Unapproved commercial or sponsorship arrangements

5

May 2026

Sample Facility Use Application Information:
Basic elements to include in your Application Forms

☐ Organization Name
☐ Contact Information
☐ Nonprofit or For-Profit Status
☐ Description of Activity
☐ Requested Dates and Times
☐ Open to the public?
☐ Frequency of Use
☐ Estimated Attendance
☐ Admission Fees Charged
☐ Revenue Generation
☐ Advertising or Sponsorships
☐ Equipment Installation Requests
☐ Storage Requests
☐ Exclusive Use Requested
☐ Requested Agreement Length

6

Policy on Use of Bond-Financed Municipal Facilities
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the use of Town facilities financed with tax-exempt
bonds or notes or other tax-advantaged debt (“Issue”) complies with the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 ( “Code”) and applicable Treasury Regulations (“Regs”). Such provisions restrict the
amount of private activity which may occur at such bond-financed facilities on an issue by issue
basis. If the private activity exceeds the permissible use at any such facilities financed by that
issue, the bonds issued therefore will become taxable.
Scope
This policy applies to any Town-owned building, facility, or capital asset that has been financed,
in whole or in part, with outstanding tax-exempt bonds or notes.
Definitions
Bond-Financed Facility: Any Town-owned building, improvement, or capital asset that
was financed in whole or in part with the proceeds of tax-exempt bonds or other taxadvantaged debt and for which such debt remains outstanding.
Private Activity: Use of bond-financed property by a private entity that has special rights
to use the property in its trade or business, beyond ordinary use as a member of the
general public. Examples include, but are not limited to, ownership, leases, licenses,
concessions or food service agreements, management contracts, or naming rights.
Examples of use as a member of the general public include a customer of a water or
sewer system or driving on a publicly owned road.
Private Entity: Any non-state or local governmental person or organization, including
private businesses, nonprofit organizations, partnerships, individuals acting in a
commercial capacity, or the federal government.
Bond Counsel: Troutman Pepper Locke LLP
Federal Private Activity Restrictions
Generally, under the Code, Bond-Financed Facilities are subject to a Private Activity limit of 5%.
Private Activity will occur where there is both private business use and private payment for this
use. An example would be a company that pays rent for space in a building built by the Town for
which the Town used bond proceeds. The Private Activity limits would apply as there is both
private use of the building and the Town receives payment for such use.
In some circumstances the Code extends the Private Activity limit to 10% where the private
business use is related to governmental use of the facility. It is best to be conservative and apply
1

the 5% limit to all Private Activity. Bond Counsel should be consulted to determine if the 10%
limit would apply.
Permitted Public and Community Use
The following is a short summary of some exceptions to the Private Activity restrictions. Bond
Counsel should be consulted in each case to determine if the facts of the situation fit within the
requirements of the Code.
1) Short-term use of municipal facilities (where such use does not exceed 50 days over a
calendar year) is generally permitted. Examples may include community meetings,
recreational leagues, civic events, and educational programs.
2) Similarly, any rate for water or sewer which is available to the public would not trigger
Private Activity limits. A rate which is special to a particular user would trigger Private
Activity limits unless that special rate is based on volume.
3) Any contract, lease, or arrangement which includes a no cause 50-day termination
provision would also not initiate Private Activity. An example would be a food service
contract where the Town can cancel the contract without cause with 50-days written
notice.
4) The Code allows exceptions for qualified management contracts (as defined therein) and
for certain qualified improvement renovation projects.
Review and Approval of Private Use Arrangements
Prior to entering an agreement for the use of a Bond Financed Facility, the proposed arrangement
shall be reviewed by Bond Counsel, the Town Administrator, and the Finance Director, to ensure
compliance with applicable federal tax regulations. It is important to review all of the facts in
each situation as in some circumstances the use of any equity for a particular project can offset
the Private Activity.
Compliance and Administration
All departments and boards entering into agreements involving municipal facilities shall
coordinate with the Town Administrator and Finance Director to ensure compliance with this
policy. The Finance Director may periodically review the use of Bond Financed Facilities to
monitor compliance with the Code and Regs. Any such agreement shall require approval by the
Select Board prior to execution. Failure to comply with the Code and Regs governing bondfinanced facilities could jeopardize the tax-exempt status of the Town’s bonds and result in
financial consequences for the Town.
Recordkeeping
The Town shall maintain records of any agreements or arrangements involving the use of bondfinanced facilities for the life of the Issue plus three years following final retirement of the Issue
and any refinancing of the Issue. This federal tax recordkeeping requirement supercedes any
state law rules on document retention.
2

Appendix List of Bond-Financed Facilities

Facility

Issue Maturity Year

Littleton Public Library

FY 2042

Fire Station

FY 2038

PRCE/School

FY 2045

Senior Center

FY 2046

Police Station

FY 2029

Middle School

FY 2029

Russell Street School

FY 2031

Alumni Field

FY 2028

Updated: 03/16/2026

251188412v1

3

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

10G

May 5, 2026 Annual Town Meeting
Annual Town Meeting Post Meeting Review
Requested by: Town Administrator

Action Sought: Discussion

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion Dependent.
Additional Information
This agenda item will allow the board to discuss actions taken at the May 5, 2026, Annual
Town Meeting.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

10H

Select Board Discussions
Discuss moratorium on Data Centers
Requested by: Select Board

Action Sought: Discussion

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion dependent.
Additional Information

Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

10I

Select Board Discussions
Discuss inactivation of the Master Plan Implementation Committee
(MPIC)
Requested by: Town Clerk, Diane Crory

Action Sought: Discussion

Proposed Motion(s)
Discussion dependent.
Additional Information
Planning Board and staff concur.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

11A

Littleton Select Board
AGENDA ACTION REQUEST

June 8, 2026

Minutes Approval
Meeting Minutes for May 11, 2026 and May 26, 2026
Requested by: James A. Duggan, Town Administrator

Action Sought: Approval

Proposed Motion(s)
MOVE that the Select Board vote to approve the meeting minutes from the Select Board
Meetings on May 11, 2026 and May 26, 2026.
Additional Information
Included in the Board’s packet are draft minutes from the Select Board Meetings on
May 11, 2026 and May 26, 2026.
Board Action
Motion

Second

In favor

Opposed

Disposition

Town of Littleton
Select Board

Minutes

Monday, May 11, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Littleton Town Offices – 37 Shattuck Street, Room 103
Notice of public meeting as required by M.G.L. Chpt.30A §18-28

Present: Gary Wilson (Chair), Charles DeCoste (Vice Chair), Mark Rambacher (Clerk), Karen Morrison, Kyle
Bubp
Also Present: Tony Sousa Assistant Town Administrator

1. Organization / Pledge of Allegiance / Moment of Silence / Read
Mail
Chair Gary Wilson called the Select Board Meeting to order at 6:30 PM on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Littleton
Town Offices, 37 Shattuck Street, Room 103, Littleton, Massachusetts. The meeting opened with the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Before proceeding with the reorganization, Chair Wilson paused the meeting to honor two recently deceased
members of the Littleton community. He recognized Robert Eugene Ansel, who passed away on May 4th at the
age of 92. Mr. Ansel had proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War and
went on to a distinguished 35-year career as an electronics engineer with the U.S. Government, contributing to
important aerospace and deep-space surveillance projects around the world. Chair Wilson also recognized Louis
Joseph Velo, who passed away on May 1st at the age of 79. Mr. Velo proudly served in the National Guard
during the Vietnam era and was a man deeply devoted to his faith, family, and community, serving as an active
member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Ann's Church. On behalf of the Town, Chair Wilson extended
heartfelt condolences to both families and asked those present to join the Select Board in a moment of silence in
their memory.

Mail
1.

Boards and Commissions Openings

2.

Select Board Office Hours: Select Board Member Mark Rambacher announced office hours on
Tuesday, May 26th from 4:00–6:00 PM and Wednesday, June 24th from 4:00–6:00 PM.

3.

Cataldo Pond Way – Application from Boston Gas for work within a 100-foot wetlands buffer zone to
install a seasonal LNG facility. Public hearing scheduled for May 12th.

4.

359 King Street – Application proposing to redevelop a residential property into a cluster residential
development. Public hearing scheduled for May 19th.

5.

Cobbs Pond Aquatic Weed Control – Application from Cobb Pond Associates. Public hearing
scheduled for May 19th.

6.

Taylor Street – LELWD Habitat Enhancement – Application from LELWD for habitat enhancement
near 141 Taylor Street and Beaver Brook. Public hearing scheduled for May 19th.

7.

Littleton Robotics Update: After a strong run at regionals and a recent trip to Texas, currently holds an
unofficial worldwide ranking of 34th out of 3,724 teams, placing them in the top 1%.

6.E. Select Board Reorganization – Vote to appoint the Select Board Chair,
Vice Chair and Clerk (Taken out of order)
Note: Reorganization was taken out of order and conducted at the beginning of the meeting, before other agenda
items.
The outgoing Chair opened the floor for nominations for the position of Chair.

Select Board Member Charles DeCoste nominated Gary Wilson for the role of Chair. Select Board Member
Mark Rambacher seconded the nomination. No additional nominations were received. A motion was made and
seconded to appoint Gary Wilson as Chair of the Select Board for the upcoming year.
Motion by Select Board Member DeCoste, seconded by Select Board Member Rambacher, to appoint
Gary Wilson as Chair of the Select Board for the following year. The motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
Chair Wilson assumed the chair and thanked the Board for the nomination. He then opened the floor for
nominations for Vice Chair.
Select Board Member DeCoste indicated a willingness to take on additional responsibility and was nominated
for Vice Chair. Select Board Member Rambacher was nominated for the position of Clerk.
Motion by Select Board Member DeCoste, seconded by Chair Wilson, to appoint Charles DeCoste as
Vice Chair and Mark Rambacher as Clerk of the Select Board. The motion carried unanimously, 5-0.

2. Department/Board Updates and Requests
A. Human Resources Discussion regarding the Police Chief Assessment
Center process with Alan Gould from Municipal Resources, Inc.
Human Resources Director Michelle Vibert reported that the posting for the Police Chief position closed on
April 24th and that four internal applicants were received. She introduced Alan Gould, President of Municipal
Resources, Inc. (MRI), who outlined the one-day assessment center scheduled for May 21st. Mr. Gould
explained that the process is an intensive full-day evaluation, with a scoring summary delivered within
approximately 48 hours. The written report will be forwarded to the Town Administrator and made available as
a public document for the board's review during the interview process.
Chair Wilson requested that MRI's evaluation also speak to each candidate's potential to fill other command
positions within the department, given anticipated upward mobility across multiple ranks. Mr. Gould affirmed
this was feasible and welcomed the direction. Vice Chair DeCoste noted that MRI had performed similarly for
the town previously (for the Fire Chief position) and expressed confidence in the process. Interim Chief Jeff
Patterson thanked MRI for their responsiveness in gathering preliminary documents. No vote was required.

B. Human Resources - Vote to approve the job description for the Project
Manager position and place it on Compensation Plan Schedule A at Grade 13
HR Director Vibert explained that the new Project Manager position is intended to improve communications
with residents and internal stakeholders and to manage the growing volume and complexity of town-wide
municipal projects. The Personnel Advisory Committee reviewed and recommended placement at Grade 13 on
Compensation Plan Schedule A. Select Board Member Rambacher noted that while he had no objection to the
job description itself, he wished to separate the approval of the description from any related personnel
restructuring discussion, which he requested be brought back to the board at a future meeting. Chair Wilson
confirmed this item was solely an approval of the job description.
Motion by Select Board Member Rambacher, seconded by Chair Wilson, MOVE that the Select Board
vote to approve the job description for the Project Manager position and place it on Compensation Plan
Schedule A at Grade 13. The motion carried unanimously, 5-0.

C. Human Resources - Vote to approve the job description for the Information
Systems Manager position and place it on Compensation Plan Schedule A at
Grade 14
HR Director Vibert explained that this new job description reflects a proposed restructuring of the IT
department, whereby the existing Grade 16 Information Systems Manager position—which carried supervisory
responsibilities—would be replaced by a Grade 14 position focused solely on IT operations and vendor contract
management. The Personnel Advisory Committee recommended the Grade 14 placement.
Select Board Member Rambacher raised substantive concerns, noting that: (1) the town just completed a budget
process presenting two IT positions to Town Meeting; (2) eliminating the Grade 16 description in favor of this
new one would effectively reduce the department to one person without a prior public restructuring discussion;
and (3) having two job descriptions with the same title at different grades creates administrative confusion. HR
Director Vibert clarified that approving the job description itself does not move any personnel—that would be a

separate action requiring the board's approval. She further noted that the grade differential may be explained by
the 2023 revision to the compensation plan's scoring structure and the removal of supervisory duties from the
new role. IT Director Nancy Glencross confirmed that end-user experience would be largely transparent under
the new structure, as help desk calls would continue to flow through IT first, with Thrive providing backup
support. The board agreed that a formal restructuring discussion would be scheduled for a future meeting.
Motion by Select Board Member Rambacher, seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste, MOVE that the Select
Board vote to approve the job description for the Information Systems Manager position and place it on
Compensation Plan Schedule A at Grade 14. The motion carried unanimously, 5-0.

D. Human Resources - Vote to approve the revisions in the Employee
Handbook as presented
HR Director Vibert presented targeted revisions to the non-union Employee Handbook, highlighting four
categories of change: (1) addition of a definitions section to clarify terms such as "benefits-eligible employee"
that had caused administrative enforcement difficulties; (2) a clarification to the merit stipend provision at Step
10 to exclude collective bargaining employees; (3) a change to longevity pay timing, specifying payment in the
second paycheck of July to align with fiscal year funding; and (4) removal of two unenforceable bullet points
from the health insurance retirement section, confirmed by Town Counsel to be legally non-compliant. Select
Board Member Rambacher identified an additional clarification needed in Section 5C regarding merit pay
eligibility for employees transferred to a lower-grade position, which HR Director Vibert agreed to incorporate.
Motion by Select Board Member Rambacher, seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste, MOVE that the Select
Board vote to approve the revisions in the Employee Handbook as presented. The motion carried
unanimously, 5-0.

E. DPW – Vote to approve the awarding of a contract for resurfacing and
related work for Spartan Arrow and various locations in the amount of
$406,164.00 to PJ Alvert, Inc.
DPW Director Stephen Jahnle presented the resurfacing bid for Spartan Arrow and various other locations. Two
bids were received and the contract is recommended for award to PJ Alvert, Inc. Director Jahnle noted that he
had opened bids for Russell Street separately on the preceding Thursday.
Select Board Member Rambacher asked when work is expected to begin, and Director Jahnle indicated
resurfacing would likely begin at the start of June, with contract notices and resident notifications to go out in
the interim via the newsletter.
Motion by Select Board Member Rambacher, seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste, MOVE that the Select
Board vote to approve the awarding of a contract for resurfacing and related work for Spartan Arrow and
various locations in the amount of $406,164.00 to PJ Alvert, Inc., and to authorize the Town
Administrator to sign the contract documents. The motion carried unanimously, 5-0.

F. DPW – Vote to approve the awarding of a contract for crack sealing and
sealcoating in the amount of $102,437.50 to Sealcoating Inc.
Director Jahnle presented the crack sealing and sealcoating contract, which covers various roads as well as the
police department parking lot. Only one bid was received from Sealcoating Inc. Chair Wilson asked whether the
single-bid situation was a concern and whether the price was fair. Director Jahnle stated he was not surprised to
receive only one bid in this specialty category and confirmed the bid came in under his estimate, indicating it
was fair and competitive. Director Jahnle noted the crack sealing work would need to be completed by mid-June
and that the contractor was prepared to mobilize promptly upon contract execution.
Motion by Select Board Member Rambacher, seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste, MOVE that the Select
Board vote to approve the awarding of a contract for crack sealing and sealcoating in the amount of
$102,437.50 to Sealcoating Inc., and to authorize the Town Administrator to sign the contract documents.
The motion carried unanimously, 5-0.

G. Conservation – Vote to approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
between the Town of Westford for herbicide treatment at Forge Pond

Select Board Member Rambacher explained this item on behalf of the Conservation department. Through the
Clean Lakes Committee and Conservation, it was discovered that the Town of Westford holds an existing
contract for invasive aquatic vegetation management. Rather than establishing a separate contract, the Town of
Littleton is proposing to piggyback on Westford's contract through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
for the current season. Westford's Select Board voted to approve the arrangement the prior week, contingent on
Town Counsel sign-off. Littleton's Town Counsel drafted the MOU. Select Board Member Rambacher noted
that for FY28 and beyond, a more comprehensive Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) would be developed.
Motion by Select Board Member Rambacher, seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste, MOVE that the Select
Board vote to approve the Memorandum of Understanding with the Town of Westford for FY26-27
invasive aquatic vegetation control at Forge Pond. The motion carried unanimously, 5-0.

H. Veteran Services – Approval for Memorial Day Parade on May 25, 2026
Veteran Services Officer Meg Murphy and VFW Post 6556 Commander Michael Kiernan were present. Ms.
Murphy confirmed the parade would follow the same plan as in prior years. Chair Wilson noted this is an annual
community event and expressed hope for favorable weather.
Motion by Select Board Member Bubp, seconded by Select Board Member Rambacher, MOVE that the
Select Board vote to approve the Veteran Services Officer's request for the approval of the Memorial Day
Parade to be held on Monday, May 25, 2026. The motion carried unanimously, 5-0.

3. Public Hearing
A. DPW – Proposed amendments to regulations and fees for the Town Transfer
Station effective July 1, 2026
Select Board Member Rambacher, serving as Clerk, read the hearing notice into the record. The Littleton Select
Board held a public hearing on proposed amendments to regulations and fees for the Town Transfer Station,
effective July 1, 2026.
DPW Director Jahnle presented a five-year retrospective on transfer station sticker fees, bag fees, sticker sales
volume, disposal tonnage, recycling tonnage, and revenues. Key findings included that annual sticker sales have
remained essentially flat at approximately 1,774 households, and that disposal and recycling tonnage has been
consistent across recent years. Director Jahnle noted a growing trend toward senior sticker purchases, and that
FY 2025 actual expenditures came in approximately $90,000 under budget. He also noted that the roll-off truck
operation cost the town an estimated $41,000 in FY 2025, far less than prior contracting costs. Director Jahnle
further briefed the board on planned improvements at the transfer station including the rollout of single-stream
compactors expected in early June.
The proposed fee structure effective July 1, 2026, is as follows:
●

Regular annual sticker: $165 (unchanged)

●

Senior sticker (age 60+): $80 (increased from $70)

●

Regular second sticker: $90 (increased from $80)

●

Senior second sticker: $50 (increased from $40)

●

33-gallon bag: $4.00 (increased from $3.75)

●

15-gallon bag: $3.00 (increased from $2.75)

●

8.5-gallon bag: $2.00 (increased from $1.75)

●

Miscellaneous item fees: unchanged except tires, which were increased to reflect rising disposal costs

Select Board Member Bubp inquired about revenue from miscellaneous item fees; Director Jahnle provided
figures of approximately $26,832 for FY 2026 year-to-date, $26,445 for FY 2025, and $31,654 for FY 2024.
Select Board Member Rambacher suggested that residents experiencing financial hardship could contact
Elder/Human Services Director Liz for assistance with sticker costs, and that the program already provides
stickers to qualifying residents. He also raised the question of whether the senior sticker eligibility age of 60 is
still appropriate, suggesting alignment with other town programs that begin at 62.

Public Comment:
Public Comment: Rob Rounce, 25 Juniper Road, commended the increased transparency of the presentation but
urged the board to clearly acknowledge that transfer station revenues do not fully cover total operating costs,
specifically citing approximately $45,000 in Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) not captured in the
revenue/expense comparison. He argued that residents who use private curbside hauling should not subsidize the
transfer station through the general fund. Vice Chair DeCoste noted that the OPEB figure may be allocated only
to transfer station staff, not highway staff. Town Administrator Sousa noted that based on figures run the same
day, FY 2025 revenues of $427,782 against expenses of $359,912 showed an excess of approximately $67,000,
which partially offsets the landfill compliance line.
Chair Wilson called for additional public comment. Hearing none, Select Board Member Rambacher moved to
close the public hearing.
Motion by Select Board Member Rambacher, seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste, to close the public
hearing. Roll call vote: Member Bubp – Aye; Member Rambacher – Aye; Member Morris – Aye; Vice
Chair DeCoste – Aye; Chair Wilson – Aye. The public hearing was closed, 5-0.
Motion by Select Board Member Rambacher, seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste, MOVE that the Select
Board vote, pursuant to Town Code Chapter 181, to establish the following fee structure for use of the
Town of Littleton Transfer Station effective July 1, 2026: Regular annual sticker $165; Senior annual
sticker $80; Regular 2nd sticker $90; Senior 2nd sticker $50; 33-gallon bag $4.00; 15-gallon bag $3.00;
8.5-gallon bag $2.00; CRTs/TVs $25; Propane tanks $15; Bulky furniture $35; Large metal items $25;
Mattresses $52nd. The motion carried unanimously, 5-0.

4. Joint Meeting with Littleton Housing Authority
A. Vote pursuant to MGL C 41, § 11 to fill a vacancy on the Littleton Housing
Authority through June 30, 2029
Housing Authority Board Chair Bartlett Harvey appeared before the board to request the appointment of Patricia
Schuberg to fill a vacancy on the Littleton Housing Authority. Mr. Harvey described Ms. Schuberg as a longtime Littleton resident and retired realtor who had attended several Housing Authority meetings in a non-voting
capacity. He noted that the Authority has found it difficult to attract volunteers for the resident member seat.
Chair Wilson confirmed that the appointment is a joint action requiring approval from both the Select Board and
the Housing Authority. As the Housing Authority did not have a quorum present, the two members in
attendance—Mr. Harvey and Matthew Nordhaus—cast votes individually. Both voted in the affirmative.
Motion to appoint Patricia Schuberg to fill a vacancy on the Littleton Housing Authority through June 30,
2026, pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 41, Section 11, was made by Select Board Member Rambacher and
seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste. Roll call vote: DeCoste – Aye; Rambacher – Aye; Bubp – Aye; Wilson
– Aye. Housing Authority members Harvey and Nordhaus also voted Aye. Motion carried unanimously.

5. Public Input/Members' Updates
Amy Tarlow-Lewis, Omega Way, requested that the town more prominently publicize the availability and
scheduling process for the wheelchair-accessible floating dock at Pratt Pond, noting that families with disabled
members are sometimes arriving to find it unavailable. Chair Wilson asked the Town Administrator to follow up
on publicizing this resource. Ms. Lewis also inquired about the status of the farmhouse at the Nagog Orchard
property. Select Board Member Rambacher confirmed that no action is currently planned for the house and that
a formal disposition process, likely to include an RFP, would be brought to a future Town Meeting, with a
possible fall Town Meeting target.
Jerry Delpier echoed Select Board Member Bubp's concern about low voter turnout, noting that at least one
Select Board race was decided by approximately three votes. He also expressed enthusiasm regarding Nagog
Orchard's ongoing restoration work.

Carolyn Mueller provided additional details regarding the July 4th celebration at Fay Park, noting that the
Historical Society will be open from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, featuring a reading of the Declaration of
Independence at 11:00 AM and a display of a historic cannon from a British warship recovered in Groton. The
group will then proceed to the Fay Park picnic at noon.
Megan Rank, 6 Screen Needles Road, raised concerns about the volume of litter along the stretch of Route 2A
between the high school and the air, noting it is a state road, and asked whether the town could bring attention to
the issue.
Members' Updates
Vice Chair DeCoste recognized the retirement ceremony for former Police Chief Pinard, expressed gratitude for
his service, and congratulated Interim Chief Patterson. He also noted public interest in a July 4th celebration and
confirmed that the Historical Commission, Rotary Club, and Cultural Council are co-sponsoring a picnic at Fay
Park. The Rotary Club contributed $1,000 and the Cultural Council contributed $1,000 toward the event.
Select Board Member Karen Morrison thanked election volunteers and candidates, all those who attended Town
Meeting, the schools and Parks and Recreation for organizing childcare, the Town Clerk and her team, the
moderator, and town employees for their work during budget season. She noted attending the retirement
ceremonies for Chief Bernard and Sue Raymond and reported on a productive Town Meeting debrief session
organized by the Town Administrator. She announced additional office hours: Friday, June 5th from 11:00 AM–
12:30 PM, and Wednesday, July 11th from 11:00 AM–12:30 PM.
Select Board Member Rambacher reported that he and Matthew Nordhaus toured the Nagog Orchard with a
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) representative, who expressed satisfaction with
progress and indicated that monitoring could transition from semi-annual to annual. He reminded residents of
the Shaker Lane forum the following evening at the Senior Center from 6:00–8:00 PM and noted the upcoming
middle school play.
Select Board Member Bubp, attending his first Select Board meeting, thanked election day volunteers, all those
who helped put on Town Meeting, and echoed the remarks about the meaningful sendoff for Chief Bernard.
Chair Wilson thanked all town employees for their work during the final stages of budget season, and formally
recognized outgoing Select Board Member Matthew Nordhaus for his six years of service to the board and
community.

6. Select Board Discussions
A. Discussion and possible vote on an interim policy pending public input
regarding active use of FLOCK cameras
Chair Wilson provided an overview of the Flock license plate reader (LPR) cameras installed in Littleton, noting
that the matter had not previously come before the Select Board for public discussion. He acknowledged that a
state house bill (H.3705) addressing driver privacy is pending. Town Counsel Emily Meehan advised that the
non-appropriation clause in the Flock contract may provide a basis for termination given Town Meeting's vote
to reduce the police department's expense line by the amount of the contract, though further review was needed.
Interim Police Chief Jeff Patterson confirmed that the cameras were installed in March–April 2026, are
currently powered but that no member of the department has been granted access to the data. He described the
proposed departmental use policy, which restricts access to the detective division and prohibits sharing data with
federal agencies.
Extensive public comment was received, with residents raising concerns regarding data privacy, third-party data
access, lack of public process prior to installation, federal agency sharing risks, and the broader implications of
mass surveillance. Several residents called for immediate deactivation of the cameras.
The following residents voiced opposition to the cameras - Greg Stahovec, Cheryl Cowley-Hollinger, Bill Reis,
Amy Tarlow-Lewis, Megan Rank, Erica Podgorni, Mark Hollinger, Tim Harvey, Josh Harriman and Dominic
Ryan
Following discussion, the Board voted to empower Chair Wilson to request that Littleton Electric Light
Department de-energize and cover the Flock cameras pending Town Counsel's review of contract terms and the
development of a formal policy.

Select Board Member Rambacher moved to empower the Chair to request that Littleton Electric Light
Department de-energize and cover the Flock cameras until such time as a policy is in place, pending
approval by Town Counsel. Select Board Member DeCoste seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
The Board noted that future agenda items will include a determination on whether to cancel the contract or
develop a policy for continued use, and that further community forums are anticipated.
Chair Wilson committed that the Flock camera matter would remain a standing agenda item for subsequent
meetings, with the Board continuing to work toward either a satisfactory policy framework or a decision to
terminate the contract. He indicated the Board would also seek a presentation from Flock representatives,
independent expert input, and data from the Police Department on public safety needs and incident history. He
also committed to engaging directly with the LELWD Commission on governance issues.

B. Review and vote to reaffirm the Select Board Code of Conduct Policy as
approved by the Select Board on May 8, 2023
Chair Wilson briefly described the Code of Conduct as governing how board members interact with each other,
town employees, and other boards. Select Board Member Bubp confirmed he reviewed the document and had
no proposed changes. The board agreed to reaffirm the policy and noted that the Town Administrator would be
asked to circulate it to other boards for their consideration.
Motion to approve the Littleton Select Board Code of Conduct Policy was made by Select Board Member
Rambacher and seconded by Select Board Member Bubp. The motion carried unanimously.

C. Endorsement of a Charitable Gaming License submitted by Littleton VFW
Post 6556 for an event to be held on June 13, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 12:00
midnight, at 21 Taylor Street
VFW Post 6556 Commander Michael Kiernan described the event as a bingo night to raise funds for the VFW
and support the local veterans community. Town Administrator Sousa confirmed that the Police Chief had
signed off. The board noted that the endorsement would be forwarded to the state for final approval.
Motion to endorse the charitable gaming license application submitted by Littleton VFW Post 6556 for an
event to be held on June 13, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 12:00 midnight, at 21 Taylor Street, as presented in
the meeting packet, was made by Select Board Member Rambacher and seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste.
The motion carried unanimously.

D. Update on the Policy for the Use of Bond-Financed Municipal Facilities
Assistant Town Administrator Sousa indicated that no material was available for this item at this meeting. The
Board acknowledged the item and agreed it needs to be addressed at a future meeting.

7. Minutes
A. Approve the minutes of April 21, 2026
Clerk Rambacher noted a typographical error in the minutes: the word "wafer" appeared in place of "waiver" in
the context of the separation agreement with former Chief Bernard. Select Board Member Bubp and Select
Board Member Rambacher abstained, as they were not present at the April 21st meeting.
Motion to approve the minutes of April 21, 2026, as amended to correct "wafer" to "waiver," was made
by Select Board Member Morris and seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste. The motion carried, with
Rambacher abstaining.

Adjournment
Motion by Select Board Member Morris, seconded by Vice Chair DeCoste, to adjourn. The motion
carried unanimously, 5-0.
The meeting was adjourned.

Town of Littleton
Select Board

Minutes

May 26, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Littleton Town Offices – 37 Shattuck Street, Room 103
Notice of public meeting as required by M.G.L. Chpt.30A §18-28

1. Executive Session
The meeting was called to order at 5:30 PM by the Chair. The Board voted to enter Executive Session prior to
the regular open session meeting.
Move that the Select Board enter into Executive Session pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(2) to conduct strategy
sessions in preparation for negotiations with non-union personnel, specifically the Town Administrator, and
pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(8) to consider applicants for employment relative to the Police Chief position,
and that the Board reconvene in Open Session.
(Select Board Member Charles DeCoste) MOVE that the Select Board enter into Executive Session
pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(2) to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with
non-union personnel, specifically the Town Administrator, and pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(8) to
consider applicants for employment relative to the Police Chief position, and that the Board reconvene in
open session. The motion was seconded. Roll call vote: Morrison – Aye; DeCoste – Aye; Bubp – Aye;
Rambacher – Aye; Wilson – Aye. Motion carried 5-0.
The Board recessed into Executive Session at approximately 5:30 PM and reconvened in open session at
approximately 6:30 PM.

2. Organization / Pledge of Allegiance / Moment of Silence / Read
Mail
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. The Chair noted that Select Board Member Karen Morrison was
participating remotely via Zoom.
Present: Gary Wilson (Chair), Charles DeCoste, Kyle Bubp, Mark Rambacher, Karen Morrison (via Zoom)
Also Present: James Duggan, Town Administrator; Tony Sousa, Assistant Town Administrator; Michelle
Vibert, Human Resources Director
Town Administrator Duggan reviewed the mail, which included
1.

Notice of Current Vacancies on Town Boards and Committees

2.

Littleton Housing Authority Vacancy. It was noted that applications for the Housing Authority vacancy
would be accepted and appointments made by the Select Board until the position is filled.

3.

Select Board office hours were announced as follows: May 26 (4–6 PM, Rambacher); June 5 (11 AM–
12:30 PM, Morrison); June 24 (4–6 PM, Rambacher); and July 1 (11 AM–12:30 PM, Morrison).

4.

Mass DOT Letter

3. Department/Board Updates and Requests

A. Parks, Recreation, & Community Education (PRCE): Vote to approve eight
(8) exemptions pursuant to G.L. c. 268A, §20(b) for PRCE summer seasonal
employees who are also employed by the Littleton Public Schools
Town Administrator Duggan noted this is a routine annual housekeeping item for seasonal employees. Human
Resources Director Vibert confirmed the eight individuals requiring exemptions under M.G.L. c. 268A, §20(b)
due to their dual employment status.
(Select Board Member Rambacher) MOVE that the Select Board vote to acknowledge a disclosure by a
municipal employee of a financial interest in a municipal contract and approve exemptions for Lavinia
Garcia, Benjamin Rose, Olivia Manno, Isabella Allsopp, Allyson Ramirez, Catherine Hoenshell, Chloe
Corrow, and Emily Bell as municipal employees in accordance with M.G.L. c. 268A, §20(b). The motion
was seconded by Town Administrator Duggan. Roll call vote: Morrison – Aye; DeCoste – Aye; Bubp –
Aye; Rambacher – Aye; Wilson – Aye. Motion carried 5-0.

B. Public Works: Vote to Award Contract – Russell Street Resurfacing and
Related Work
Town Administrator Duggan reported that the low bidder for the Russell Street Resurfacing and Related Work
contract was PJ Albert Construction Company, Inc. of Fitchburg, Massachusetts, in the amount of $291,545.
The project includes roadway repairs and construction of a new sidewalk along Russell Street.
The Board discussed the scope of the project. Select Board Member Rambacher inquired whether granite
curbing would be installed to be consistent with the opposite side of Russell Street, which already has granite
curbing. Town Administrator Duggan indicated he believed the project would include granite curbing
throughout for consistency and committed to confirming this with the DPW Director. The Chair noted that a
future discussion regarding the speed limit on Russell Street may also be warranted. Select Board Member
Rambacher raised the possibility of applying for a Complete Streets grant, even retroactively, but Town
Administrator Duggan indicated that the application window had closed.
(Select Board Member Rambacher) MOVE to award the Russell Street Resurfacing and Related Work
contract, Contract Number 2026-8, to PJ Albert Construction Company, Inc. of Fitchburg, Massachusetts,
as the lowest responsible and eligible bidder in the amount of $291,545, and to authorize the Town
Administrator to execute the contract. The motion was seconded. Roll call vote: Morrison – Aye; DeCoste
– Aye; Bubp – Aye; Rambacher – Aye; Wilson – Aye. Motion carried 5-0.

C. Public Works: Vote to Award Contract – Frog Pond Restoration Project
Town Administrator Duggan explained that this project is funded through two sources: Community Preservation
Committee (CPC) funds of approximately $88,000 for a new boardwalk, and approximately $70,000 from DPW
roadway repair funds for dredging. The lowest bidder was MJ Cataldo, Inc. of Littleton, Massachusetts, in the
total amount of $156,000. The Board briefly discussed the lifespan of the existing boardwalk, which was
understood to have been original construction, with a general estimate of approximately 15 years.
(Select Board Member Rambacher) MOVE to award the Frog Pond Restoration contract, Contract
Number 2026-7, to MJ Cataldo, Inc. of Littleton, Massachusetts, as the lowest responsible and eligible
bidder in the amount of $156,000, and to authorize the Town Administrator to execute the contract. The
motion was seconded by Select Board Member DeCoste. Roll call vote: Morrison – Aye; DeCoste – Aye;
Bubp – Aye; Rambacher – Aye; Wilson – Aye. Motion carried 5-0.

F. Littleton Public Schools: Vote to approve an exemption pursuant to G.L. c.
268A, §20(d) for a special municipal employee of the Littleton Public Schools
(Taken out of order)

Human Resources Director Vibert explained that this exemption is for a current school employee who would be
working both at Tiger's Den and within the school as a substitute, requiring an exemption under M.G.L. c.
268A, §20(d).
(Select Board Member Rambacher) MOVE that the Select Board vote to acknowledge a disclosure by a
municipal employee of a financial interest in a municipal contract and approve the exemption for Kyra
Rowe as a municipal employee in accordance with M.G.L. c. 268A, §20(d). The motion was seconded.
Roll call vote: Morrison – Aye; DeCoste – Aye; Bubp – Aye; Rambacher – Aye; Wilson – Aye. Motion
carried 5-0.

D. Human Resources: Vote to appoint Nancy Glencross to the Project Manager
position at Grade 13, Step 10 of the Compensation Plan Schedule A
Human Resources Director Vibert introduced the item, noting that the appointment comes before the Board
pursuant to the personnel bylaws, which require Board approval for any appointment exceeding Step 5 of the
compensation plan.
Town Administrator Duggan provided context for the role, describing the Project Manager position as a townwide resource. He cited a recent example where the ADA Commission identified a capital improvement grant
opportunity that could not be pursued due to current personnel workloads, noting this is precisely the type of
work the Project Manager would take on. He also described expanded community outreach and social media
responsibilities and referenced Select Board Member Morrison's prior suggestion to more aggressively spotlight
committee vacancies.
Select Board Member Bubp asked whether the role would be all-encompassing for the entire town. Town
Administrator Duggan confirmed it would be, with department heads able to request assistance through the
Town Administrator's office. He also noted that the town's Thrive contract is currently being underutilized and
this position would help capture more of its value.
Select Board Member Rambacher expressed his opposition, consistent with his position at the prior meeting. He
argued that the reclassification should have occurred through the budget process rather than after Town Meeting
had just approved a budget that included two positions in IT. He suggested that Nancy Glencross could perform
project manager duties informally within her existing IT role, without a formal reclassification. Town
Administrator Duggan countered that having an employee perform duties outside of their approved job
description would not be appropriate and noted that the transition had been in discussion with Glencross for
approximately a year.
Town Administrator Duggan confirmed that the move would result in a net budget savings of approximately
$20,000–$25,000, inclusive of merit stipends, as the new position is at a lower compensation grade than the IT
position being vacated. Human Resources Director Vibert clarified that the merit stipend would continue in the
new role. The Board also discussed the future of the IT technician position, which would be left unfunded but
not formally abolished, allowing it to be brought back through the budget process if needed in the future.
The Chair noted his view that moving personnel between departments falls within the Town Administrator's
purview to manage town operations effectively but expressed a personal preference that positions no longer
funded come back through the budget cycle.
(Select Board Member Rambacher) MOVE to appoint Nancy Glencross to the Project Manager position
at Grade 13, Step 10 on Compensation Plan Schedule A. The motion was seconded by Select Board
Member DeCoste. Roll call vote: Morrison – Aye; DeCoste – Aye; Bubp – Aye; Rambacher – Nay;
Wilson – Aye. Motion carried 4-1.

E. Human Resources: Vote to appoint Thomas McLaughlin to the Information
Systems Manager position at Grade 14, Step 7 of the Compensation Plan
Schedule A
Human Resources Director Vibert explained that the current IT Technician, Thomas McLaughlin, would be
appointed to the newly graded Information Systems Manager position at Grade 14, Step 7 of Compensation Plan
Schedule A. His current position is Grade 11, Step 10. As of July 1, 2026, he would remain at Step 7 and receive

the standard cost-of-living adjustment rather than a merit step increase, consistent with personnel policy. His
salary for the month of June would be $96,841.44, and as of July 1, his salary would be $99,263.52.
The Chair noted that for future personnel actions of this nature, earlier engagement with the Board during the
discussion phase would be preferred. Town Administrator Duggan acknowledged this and accepted
responsibility for the timing.
(Select Board Member Rambacher) MOVE to appoint Thomas McLaughlin to the Information Systems
Manager position at Grade 14, Step 7 on Compensation Plan Schedule A. The motion was seconded by
Select Board Member Bubp. Roll call vote: Morrison – Aye; DeCoste – Aye; Bubp – Aye; Rambacher –
Aye; Wilson – Aye. Motion carried 5-0.

4. Public Input/Members' Updates
Members' Updates
Select Board Member Morrison had no member updates.
Select Board Member DeCoste thanked all who participated in the Memorial Day ceremony, noting it required a
last-minute change of venue to the Shattuck Street center. He recognized Veterans Service Officer Mike
Murphy, DPW employee and VFW Commander Mike Mizzoni, Town Clerk Liz Tretiak for opening the facility
on her day off, Town Clerk Diane Crory for her ongoing work supporting veterans, the Schimmel family for
donating food for the VFW luncheon, police and fire personnel who attended, and State Representative Arciero
and Senator Eldridge for attending and speaking. Awards night at the High School is Thursday at 6:30 PM,
noting the significant value of scholarships awarded to graduating seniors.
Select Board Chair Wilson acknowledged the police chief assessment center process, noting that an assessment
center had been conducted using a firm from New Hampshire to evaluate and rank internal candidates, results
were discussed in Executive Session, and the next step will be an interview process leading to the appointment
of a new chief.
The Chair offered congratulations to the Class of 2026 on behalf of the Board, noting the Board would not meet
again before graduation.
Select Board Member Bubp had no additional member updates.
Select Board Member Rambacher provided an extensive update across several areas. He reported attending an
MAGIC Affordable Housing Trust meeting, noting the group is producing a white paper due in late June;
attending a CHAPA cohort meeting in Medway as part of his Housing Institute certification; and that the
Affordable Housing Trust, with assistance from MHP, has prepared an RFP for the Durkee property that is
expected to be released the following month, with the property able to accommodate 32 bedrooms plus the
existing house on approximately 5 acres. He reported attending the Shaker Lane community forum, noting
residents were asked to envision design elements for the space. He attended the Climate Action Plan working
session, with the plan expected to be finalized within approximately a month, and a Charter Committee meeting,
with the charter expected to come before the Board within a couple of weeks. He and Select Board Member
Bubp attended a business spotlight for MAYIL. He noted that the MOU with Westford for the treatment of
Forge Pond is now with the town's legal counsel following comments from Westford's Town Council and is
expected to be executable without significant issues. He also reported that an agreement for a consultant to
evaluate the Nagog Orchard would be issued as a purchase order shortly, with a visit and report anticipated in
July following the MDR inspection report. Finally, he announced the upcoming Lyceum performance of the
Japanese drumming group at the High School this Friday at 7:30 PM.
The Chair provided an update on the Flock Security Cameras, confirming that the cameras remain disconnected
and will not be reactivated until the Board has the opportunity to convene, discuss the matter in detail, engage
the public, and determine whether a workable policy can be developed. He stated unequivocally that the Board
will not allow them to be turned back on until that process has occurred.
The Chair also noted publicly that the Donelan’s property appeared to be generating community concern
regarding a potential car dealership. He confirmed, having spoken with the Planning Board Chair, that a zoning
bylaw passed at the time of the Toyota dealership's construction prohibits any additional car dealerships in the
common district, and that therefore such a use would not be permitted.

Public Input
Joann Dery of Harwood Avenue raised two concerns. First, she expressed opposition to the relocation of a liquid
natural gas (LNG) facility currently at the Lupoli property to a parcel owned by Kimball's on the other side of
Route 110. She urged that if the move were approved, conditions be imposed including dark-sky-compliant
lighting, motion-sensitive fixtures aimed only inside the facility, quiet operations, and minimal seasonal
footprint. Second, she expressed concern about the potential for data centers to locate in Littleton, given the
town's low electric rates, and urged the Board to develop a policy addressing noise, power consumption, water
temperature impacts, and limits on greenfield development for such facilities.
Erica Podgorni of Fox Lane thanked the Board for disconnecting the Flock cameras and posed questions about
the path forward. She specifically asked where in the proposed policy it prohibits sharing data with ICE, and
whether any such policy could prevent Flock Safety, as a private company, from independently sharing data
with federal agencies. She also raised concerns about the process by which the cameras were originally
deployed without public knowledge or Board oversight, and asked what safeguards would be put in place to
ensure similar surveillance decisions are brought before the Board in the future.
The Chair acknowledged these concerns and stated that developing policy is the primary mechanism for
preventing similar situations, and that the subject would be an appropriate area of inquiry during the upcoming
police chief interview process.
Amy Tarlow-Lewis, of Omega Way, expressed support for a moratorium on data centers, referencing the town
of Mansfield as an example of a community that had enacted such a restriction. She also acknowledged her prior
error at a previous meeting regarding the source of funding for the Flock cameras, clarifying that she had not
understood at the time that the cameras were funded through a public safety grant from Littleton Light and
Water Department revenues rather than a DOJ grant. She asked questions about the Board's internal process for
reviewing warrant items, the relationship between the Select Board and LELWD, and raised concern about
disparate treatment she observed at the LELWD board meeting where her name and letter were displayed
publicly while another complainant's identity was not disclosed. The Chair responded that reviewing every line
item in the warrant is difficult given the volume, acknowledged it was a failure not to catch the relevant line
item, and committed to working to improve the transparency and communication between the Select Board and
LELWD. He noted that the LELWD board is independent of the Select Board and therefore it would be
inappropriate for him to comment on their internal meeting management practices.
Andrew Stahovec of Foster Street voiced support for removing the Flock cameras entirely, agreed with the data
center moratorium concept, and urged the Board to pursue Complete Streets grant funding more aggressively,
noting the FY2027 application period appeared to close in June.
Megan Rank of Green Needles Road raised concern about the lack of video recording at LELWD meetings,
noting that a resident's name appeared on that board's public agenda without any publicly available record of
how the matter was handled. She urged the Select Board to encourage greater transparency from LELWD.
Joann Dery returned briefly to note that LELWD's meeting facility has cameras capable of supporting live
broadcasting, and that she had difficulty finding the meeting date on the LELWD website. She indicated she
would attend future LELWD meetings to advocate for video recording and a public calendar.
Select Board Member Rambacher asked whether LELWD meetings could be added to the town's Civic Plus
subscription so residents could subscribe to meeting notifications. Town Administrator Duggan indicated this
could be explored, and the Chair suggested it could be an early project for the newly appointed Project Manager.

5. Select Board Discussions
A. Update regarding the bond-financed municipal facilities policy
Town Administrator Duggan reported that following the Board's discussion in March, he had prepared a
working draft compliance guide to accompany the previously shared draft policy. The guide, approximately six
pages in length, includes a flowchart, practical examples drawn from town counsel, and guidance on identifying
red flags in facility use requests—such as exclusive use rights or long-term dedicated office space—that may
implicate IRS private-use thresholds for bond-financed buildings. He described the guide as a tool to assist
department heads and staff in evaluating requests, with a process to escalate uncertain cases to the Town
Administrator's office and town counsel.
Select Board Member Rambacher noted that bonded facilities include the schools and library, which are not
under the Select Board's direct oversight, and suggested the draft be shared with those entities for comment prior

to finalization. Town Administrator Duggan agreed. Town Administrator Duggan also confirmed in response to
an earlier question that 36 King Street was bonded as part of a bundled bond totaling approximately
$11,000,000, including sewer, PFAS treatment, and water main components.
Select Board Member Rambacher also raised the question of whether it would be cleaner to have a single
facilities use policy applicable to all town buildings regardless of bond status, rather than maintaining separate
policies for bonded and non-bonded facilities. The Board agreed the matter was worth further exploration and
comparison with any existing school department policies.
The Board agreed there was no urgency to act on the policy that evening and that the item would return at a
subsequent meeting after members had additional time to review the draft compliance guide and the draft policy
could be shared with the schools and library.

B. Discussion regarding scheduling the next Select Board retreat and goal
setting session
The Board discussed scheduling its annual retreat and goal-setting session, which has historically been held in
late June. After reviewing member availability through the month of June, the Board agreed on Tuesday, June
30, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The location was left to be determined, with the Fire Department and
other town facilities noted as possibilities.

6. Town Administrator Update
A. Update on municipal operations, projects, and initiatives
Town Administrator Duggan provided the following updates:
The Assessor's Office is updating maps for the CAMA system and conducting cyclical property inspections. The
Assessor is also beginning work on new growth projections for 550 King Street, with a future presentation to the
Select Board anticipated regarding the phasing of those new growth numbers as permits and fees are triggered.
The Building Commissioner reported that inspections at The Point for TJ Maxx and Barnes & Noble are
proceeding very well, with a Barnes & Noble opening anticipated around June 1.
The Police Department budget has been updated online to reflect the $17,500 reduction passed at Town Meeting
related to the Flock camera program.
Department heads will be asked to submit updated capital budgets by July 31. The Treasurer's office is working
with the accounting department on year-end account reviews.
Planning staff has received an open space residential development application for five new homes at 539 King
Street. Planning staff is also working with a developer to finalize the Planning Board's decision on the King
Street Green area approval.

7. Minutes
A. Executive session meeting minutes from April 6, 2026 and April 21, 2026
(Select Board Member Rambacher) MOVE to approve the Executive Session meeting minutes from April
6, 2026 and April 21, 2026. The motion was seconded by Select Board Member DeCoste. Roll call vote:
Morrison – Aye; DeCoste – Aye; Bubp – Aye; Rambacher – Aye; Wilson – Aye. Motion carried 5-0.

B. Regular session meeting minutes from May 5, 2026
(Select Board Member Rambacher) MOVE to approve the regular session meeting minutes from May 5,
2026. The motion was seconded by Select Board Member Bubp. Roll call vote: Morrison – Aye; DeCoste
– Aye; Bubp – Aye; Rambacher – Aye; Wilson – Aye. Motion carried 5-0.

Anticipated Adjournment (8:00PM)

Select Board Member DeCoste moved to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Select Board Member
Rambacher. Roll call vote: Morrison – Aye; Bubp – Aye; Wilson – Aye. Motion carried.
The meeting was adjourned.