PHILLIPSTON — The police chief and highway supervisor reported to the Selectboard this week that things are looking good for the unofficial start of summer, with plans for patrols and cleanups going smoothly.
“Make the call, that’s why we’re here,” Police Chief Kevin Dodge emphasized during his report to the Selectboard this week. Dodge discussed an anticipated increase in traffic volume and safety concerns for the summer and fall, and said he and Highway Superintendent Richard Tenney were forming a plan for appropriate signage to get the town through a busy season.
Dodge said, “The crime rate in town is down compared to other towns. We’re a bedroom community. Most of the violations are people who are not from here.”
Dodge said police getting out and talking with residents is making a difference.
“It’s boots on the ground,” he said. “We visit the campground, the Apple Farm — and, people appreciate that, they feel they get the best service. That’s what’s great about it.”
Tenney said he came across some faded Neighborhood Watch signs around town and asked what could be done about it. Dodge said the Highway Department shouldn’t have to absorb the cost and suggested the department talk with Police Officer Dan Kimball.
Ruth French brought up suspicious vehicles, noting her husband was turkey scouting in Winchendon when he was stopped by an officer after someone reported a suspicious vehicle.
“If you see something you think is freaky or doesn’t feel right, call the police department,” she said.
Dodge said, “I agree with Ruth, make the call.” He urged people to call right away and not wait.
Tenney reported there is a possibility that the $350,000 left over from the Petersham Road project could be used for the Route 101 bridge replacement/repair. A request has been sent to state Sen. Anne Gobi’s office for an amendment to the MassWorks Infrastructure Program contract to include the work for the Route 101 bridge.
“There’s a chance. We didn’t realize we could amend it,” said Tenney. “With the $100,000 we received from Sen. Gobi’s office, we could get Phase I and Phase II done.”
He said the department is busy sweeping some roads — others are graded and ready to be “touched up.” He said because Royalston’s sweeper broke, his department will assist in sweeping Town Common for the Memorial Day celebration.
“They reciprocate the help,” he said.
It was noted that all new stationary brackets for flags all around the common area were handmade by Tenney. The materials were picked up and delivered by Dodge. Tenney also mentioned that the water will be connected on the Common for the summer.
The town’s Memorial Day program will be held on Sunday, with the parade forming at 8:45 a.m. It will step off at 9 a.m from the Common and proceed to Upper Cemetery. Parade marshal is David Bramhall. The invocation and benediction will be given by Reverend Stephanie Flynn. The firing squad will be handled by American Legion Post 102, and the Color Guard by Boy Scout Troop 39. “Taps” and the national anthem will be played by the Narragansett Regional High School Band directed by Bobby Rathbone.
The program includes the welcome by Selectman Terry Dymek and reflections by state Sen. Anne Gobi. Guest speaker is Don Stoddard, Sonarman 2nd Class (ret.) U.S. Coast Guard. Light refreshments will be served on the church lawn following the program, courtesy of the Supporters of the Memorial Day Program.
Bramhall noted there is a 40 percent chance of thunderstorms forecast for Sunday, and asked who makes the decision to cancel the ceremony. He said he was concerned about the school band. Selectman John Telepciak said that in the past nine years, that has never come up.
“We’ve always held it,” French said. “Rain or shine and bug spray. It’s always gone on.”
It was noted that the band has to be notified by 7:30 a.m. on the day of, if it is canceled.
Administrative Assistant Kevin Flynn said the school gymnasium or church could be used and suggested that if the weather was too bad when the band arrived, they could stay on the bus. It was also noted that in the event of light rain, the band members will don rain jackets. In the event of bad weather the parade marshal will announce any changes.
The town will be posting a list of board and committee vacancies on its website and at Town Hall. Applications are due by June 1, and appointments will be made June 25, the last Selectboard meeting of the fiscal year, which ends June 30.
A handwritten thank-you card was received from resident Marissa Marques for the lovely recognition given her at the annual Town Meeting. Marques was applauded for achieving the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest award bestowed to Girl Scouts.
Flynn reported some people mentioned they could not hear at the recent annual Town Meeting held in the Phillipston Memorial School gymnasium. He said he intends to apply for assisted listening devices for those with hearing disabilities.
It was reported Narragansett Regional High School graduation will be held Friday, June 1.
The resignation of Joanne Telepciak, who moved out of town, from the board of health was accepted. Selectmen voted to approve the recommendation to appoint Jim Praplasky as a member. The two boards together must approve the new member.
Dan Sanden resigned from the Narragansett Regional School Committee.