Select Board December 2, 2025

December 2, 2025
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Wellesley Select Board Meeting Minutes

Governing Body: Wellesley Select Board Meeting Type: Regular Meeting (Hybrid Platform) Meeting Date: December 02, 2025 Attendees:

  • Select Board Members: Marjorie Freiman (Chair), Tom Ulfelder (Vice Chair), Colette Aufranc (Secretary), Beth Sullivan Woods, Kenneth Largess
  • Staff: Meghan Jop (Executive Director), Corey Testa (Assistant Executive Director), Stephanie Hawkinson (Public Information Officer)
  • Board of Assessors: Arthur Garrity (Chair), Stephen Mahoney, Stephen Burt, Ellen Muller (Director of Assessing)
  • Wellesley Conservation Land Trust: Michael Tobin (President)
  • Context Architecture: Jeff Shaw (Principal), Emily Mowbray, Selvi Shaw
  • Wellesley Fire Department: Chief Steve Mortarelli
  • FMD: Glen Remick
  • Special Counsel: Bill August (Epstein and August)
  • Comcast: Patrick Shearns

Executive Summary

The Wellesley Select Board convened on December 2, 2025, addressing several key town matters. The meeting began with citizen comments primarily focused on the proposed sale of the MassBay Forest, with residents urging the Board to challenge the state's plan. The Board then approved the consent agenda, including a change in the alcohol beverages manager for Roche Bros. A public hearing was held for the FY26 tax classification, resulting in the decision to maintain a single tax rate for residential and commercial properties. Another public hearing led to the approval of a 10-year Comcast cable license renewal, which includes maintaining 5% PEG operating revenue and an HD channel for Wellesley Media. The Board also approved a conservation restriction for 50 Pond Road, preserving two acres as open space. Finally, an update on the Fire Station Master Plan highlighted the need for modernizing existing facilities and the potential for a third station driven by future call volume and development. The meeting concluded with the allocation of Boston Marathon invitational entry bibs to various non-profit organizations.

Citizen Speak

  • Gene Mayell (27 Seaver Street, Precinct H, Town Meeting Member):
    • Expressed gratitude to the Select Board for considering challenging the state's plan to sell the MassBay Forest.
    • Urged the Board to use "every legal, financial, moral tool" to stop the sale, including potential court action.
    • Highlighted the forest's ecological connection to Wellesley Centennial Park and its protection under Article 97 as permanent conservation land.
    • Suggested inviting Governor Maura Healey to walk the trails to understand the land's value, rather than viewing it as "surplus."
    • Cited two legal issues: Article 97 protection based on long-term public use and state intent, and the legislature's affirmation in 1995 that the entire area functions as one connected conservation land.
    • Stated that the state cannot legally erase decades of its own actions.
    • Emphasized public enjoyment of the trails and the community's strong connection to the land.
    • Suggested MassBay Community College utilize its "barely used parking lot" for development instead of the forest.
  • Ezra Engelbart (19 Kirkland Circle, Precinct H, Chair of Trails Committee):
    • Echoed previous speaker's sentiments and thanked the Select Board for efforts to protect trails and natural resources.
    • Noted the Trails Committee has led two guided walks of the area to highlight the trail system and what is at stake.
    • Announced new signage indicating "MassBay Forest" and "Town of Wellesley Land" to raise awareness.
    • Extended an invitation for guided tours, with the next scheduled for December 13th at 10 a.m. from the Oakland Street parking lot.
  • Doug Youngen (162 Oakland Street):
    • Thanked the Select Board for considering potential litigation regarding the DCAM MassBay proposed development at 40 Oakland Street.
    • Stated that 3,143 signatures on a petition indicate strong public support for the Board's direction.
    • Urged DCAM to remove the land from the surplus list and reduce development.
    • Argued that using the "pristine forest" as leverage for MassBay funding is "wrong and short-sighted."
    • Expressed concern that the Affordable Homes Act of 2024 may have incorrectly deemed some properties as surplus.
    • Highlighted that large construction projects near forests cause "deforestation, habitat loss, pollution, long-term ecosystem disruption," reducing biodiversity.
    • Predicted that 300-500 new residents would overwhelm Oakland Street and surrounding neighborhoods, requiring major infrastructure improvements.
    • Noted that the proposed development would address less than 1% of the state's housing goal.
  • Ken Pritchard (524 Worcester Street):
    • Spoke personally about the park's impact over 25 years, emphasizing the "pleasure" and "community" it provides.
    • Questioned if empirical research exists on park usage and if it has been shared with state officials.
    • Stressed that "once this thing's gone, it's gone; you can't get a forest back."
    • Stated he has reached out to Governor Maura Healey, inviting her to visit the park.
    • Offered to help the town in any way possible.
  • Allison Griffin (64 Russell Road):
    • Expressed indignation at the proposal, finding it "illogical to take away green space to create affordable housing."
    • Raised concerns about increased traffic and environmental issues without proposed solutions.
    • Challenged the notion that "the state's just going to do it anyway," emphasizing democratic participation.
    • Noted the growing community support, evidenced by increasing sign orders and petition signatures.
    • Described the state's approach as "shortsighted, negligent, and illogical."
    • Thanked the Select Board for "sticking up for us."

Executive Director's Report

  • Meghan Jop, Executive Director:
    • Visioning Workshop Postponement: The December 8th Visioning Workshop has been postponed.
    • Free Parking: Parking is free in two-hour spots in commercial districts through January 2nd. (Note: Two-hour limit still enforced).
    • Holiday Stroll: The Holiday Stroll is scheduled for December 7th in Wellesley Square from 12 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
    • Town Tree Lighting: The town tree lighting will be from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Wellesley Square Fire Station (Station 1, 100 Central Street).
    • Chair's Office Hours: Marjorie Freiman will hold office hours on Friday, December 5th, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. (in-person and Zoom appointments available via direct email or SEL@WellesleyMA.gov).
    • Affordable Rental Opportunity: An affordable three-bedroom unit is available at Cedar Place, 3 Burke Lane. Information is on the town's website.
    • Staff Anniversary: Lenore Mahoney, ZBA Executive Secretary, is celebrating her 30th anniversary with the town.
  • Corey Testa, Assistant Executive Director:
    • Council on Aging Needs Assessment: On Wednesday, December 2nd, at 2 p.m. at the Tolles Parsons Centre, consultants will present the UMass study on the Council on Aging's needs assessment.

Consent Agenda

  • Item: Vote a change in the alcohol beverages manager at Roche Bros.
    • Details: Michael Pedranti, store manager for eight years and TIP certified, is proposed to become the alcohol beverages manager. The change will be vetted and approved by the ABCC.
  • Motion: To approve the consent agenda.
    • Moved by: Colette Aufranc
    • Seconded by: Tom Ulfelder
    • Vote: All in favor (Aye).
    • Outcome: Approved.

Public Hearing: Tax Classification for Fiscal Year 2026

  • Purpose: To certify the tax rate for FY26 and determine whether to apply a single tax rate or different rates for residential and commercial properties.
  • Notice: Advertised in the Wellesley Townsman on November 20, 2025. The Chamber of Commerce supports retaining the single tax rate.
  • Presentation by Board of Assessors (Arthur Garrity, Stephen Mahoney, Ellen Muller):
    • Property Value Trends:
      • Single-family properties: Increased from $14 billion to $14.75 billion (FY22 to current FY).
      • Median single-family property value: $1,751,000 (up $100,000 from prior year).
      • Average single-family property value: Over $2 million (up $100,000 year-over-year).
      • Commercial values: Declined from $1.5 billion to under $1.5 billion, attributed to COVID-19 aftermath and declining economic conditions (e.g., increased vacancies).
    • Tax Levy Distribution:
      • Residential properties bear approximately 89% of the total tax levy.
      • Commercial properties bear approximately 10.5% of the total tax levy.
    • Property Classifications (FY26):
      • Single-family residences: 7,319 (increase of 4 from last year).
      • Condominiums: 672 (increase of 6).
      • Two-family properties: Decreased by 4 (due to conversions to condominiums).
      • Vacant land: Increased by 1 (net result of a teardown).
      • Total taxable property value: $18,238,625,040.
    • Proposition 2 ½ Impact:
      • Levy base from last year + 2.5% increase ($4,100,290) + new growth (certified by DOR, close to estimated $2,500,000) + debt exclusions.
      • No overrides voted.
      • Required debt exclusion payments for elementary, middle, high schools, North 40 acquisition, and senior center add 82 cents to the calculation.
      • Total levy limit: $185,000,000 (approximately).
    • Tax Rate Calculation:
      • Assumes a single tax rate.
      • If a single tax rate is adopted, the projected rate is $10.17 per $1,000 of assessed value.
    • Split Tax Rate Analysis:
      • Town can vary the tax rate by up to 50%.
      • Single Tax Rate (1.0 factor for commercial and residential): Residential properties bear over 90% of town requirements, commercial under 9.6%.
      • Split Rate Impact: Increasing the commercial factor (e.g., to 1.5) dramatically increases the median commercial tax bill (difference of $14,000 between 1.0 and 1.5 factors), while providing only modest relief to residential taxpayers.
      • Conclusion: A tenfold increase in median commercial taxes for every increase in the tax factor to the commercial segment.
  • Board Discussion:
    • Colette Aufranc: Stated that given Wellesley's tax base (residential vs. commercial), a split rate "simply doesn't make any sense." A large increase in commercial burden would result in modest residential relief. Residents desire a thriving business community.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Thanked the Assessors and noted the Chamber of Commerce's support for a single tax rate.
    • Beth Sullivan Woods: Asked about the impact on tax rates when a commercial property sells significantly below its assessed value. Ellen Muller explained that sales are the best evidence of market value and are noted in the next valuation cycle.
    • Stephen Mahoney: Noted that commercial values didn't all go down; certain sectors were hit harder. Transaction volume has slowed due to buyers and sellers disagreeing on value.
    • Tom Ulfelder: Acknowledged the $987 savings for homeowners with a maximum split rate but emphasized the negative impact on the commercial sector, especially with Haynes properties being sold. Concerned about empty space and its effect on redevelopment and rent, which could "change Wellesley for the worse."
    • Marjorie Freiman: Agreed that a single tax rate is best for the town, considering the small percentage of commercial property and the reliance on commercial activity.
  • Public Comment: No public comments.
  • Motion to Close Public Hearing:
    • Moved by: Colette Aufranc
    • Seconded by: Tom Ulfelder
    • Vote: All in favor (Aye).
    • Outcome: Approved.
  • Motion to Adopt Residential Factor:
    • Motion: To adopt a residential factor of 1.0 for the purposes of determining the fiscal year 2026 tax rate.
    • Moved by: Colette Aufranc
    • Seconded by: Tom Ulfelder
    • Vote: All in favor (Aye).
    • Outcome: Approved.

Public Hearing: Comcast Cable License Renewal

  • Purpose: To issue a license for cable television, as the current Comcast license expires on March 31, 2026.
  • Negotiation Process: Negotiations with Comcast have been ongoing for a year, led by Special Counsel Bill August of Epstein and August, with participation from Meghan Jop and James Joyce (Director of Wellesley Public Media).
  • Ascertainment Hearing: Held on October 1, 2024, to gather public concerns.
  • Recommendation: Staff finds the terms favorable for the next 10 years and recommends approval.
  • Public Comment: No public comments.
  • Motion to Close Public Hearing:
    • Moved by: Colette Aufranc
    • Seconded by: Tom Ulfelder
    • Vote: All in favor (Aye).
    • Outcome: Approved.
  • Key Changes in Negotiated License (Meghan Jop):
    • Term: 10-year license.
    • PEG Operating Revenue: Maintained at 5% of gross annual revenues (consistent with 2016).
    • Capital Funding: Slightly reduced to $98,000 total over 10 years (a $12,000 drop).
    • PEG Capital Percent of Revenue: Increased from 0.2% to 0.45% of gross revenues.
    • HD Channel: An HD channel and equipment will be provided for Wellesley Media Corporation.
    • Additional Buildings: Five additional buildings added, including Star Academy.
    • Customer Service: Maintaining and enhancing customer service protections and technical standards.
    • Senior Discount: A side letter from Comcast ensures the senior discount ($2 per month for residents 65+ receiving SSI or Medicaid) is maintained for 10 years.
  • Board Discussion:
    • Beth Sullivan Woods: Expressed concern that with cord-cutting, the 10-year license might leave Wellesley Media in a difficult financial position, given increasing demand for their services and rising costs, while revenue streams decline.
    • Meghan Jop: Explained that Wellesley Media Corporation has substantial reserves (over $2 million) set aside for additional funding. Annual funding from Verizon and Comcast will cover ongoing programs, with supplemental funds from existing Wellesley Media funding. A revolving fund exists if additional town funds are needed in the distant future.
    • Tom Ulfelder: Supported Meghan's comments, noting that Peter Marks (Wellesley Media Chair) is comfortable with their financial reserves and does not seek town funds for operations.
    • Bill August (Special Counsel):
      • Confirmed 5% of gross revenues is the maximum permitted by law for annual operating payments.
      • Capital funding is essentially level, with the increase in percentage of gross revenues offsetting the slight decline in fixed payments.
      • Praised Wellesley Media's prudence in accumulating reserves.
      • Clarified that the HD channel is a substitute for one of the three existing channels, resulting in two SD and one HD channel.
      • Highlighted the comprehensive nature of the 70-page license, covering right-of-way management, consumer complaints, insurance, and indemnification.
      • Emphasized the collaborative process with town staff and Comcast.
    • Patrick Shearns (Comcast):
      • Thanked Meghan, Bill, and James for a "thorough and collaborative negotiation process."
      • Believes the license reflects a "fair and beneficial outcome for the town."
      • Reiterated that the increased percentage of gross annual revenue for capital funding will provide "more cushioning in the short term."
  • Motion to Approve License:
    • Motion: To approve the Boston Marathon Invitational Entry bibs as detailed in the memorandum from Stephanie Hawkinson dated November 28, 2025, with the following amendments: the inclusion of Community Investors, with the inclusion of the Wellesley Historical Society, and with the removal of the Wellesley Theatre Project.
    • Moved by: Colette Aufranc
    • Seconded by: Tom Ulfelder
    • Vote: All in favor (Aye).
    • Outcome: Approved.

Discuss and Vote: Conservation Restriction for 50 Pond Road

  • Presenter: Michael Tobin, President of the Wellesley Conservation Land Trust.
  • Background: 50 Pond Road is a two-acre parcel owned by the Honeywell family, previously subdivided from a larger property around 2000. It consists of trees, a field, and is partially used for pasture by the nearby 20-acre Honeywell Farm. The family wishes to permanently protect this open space.
  • Conservation Restriction (CR) Details:
    • A legal contract on the property deed, approved by the Select Board and Executive Office of Environmental Affairs.
    • Landowner gives up development rights to protect open space and conservation values.
    • Allowable and non-allowable uses are agreed upon.
    • The CR would keep the property "just the way it is," wooded and sometimes used as pasture.
    • Benefit to Town: Preserves Pond Road as a scenic road.
  • Board Discussion:
    • Kenneth Largess: Asked about the tax impact.
      • Meghan Jop: For FY25, the town receives approximately $18,000; for FY26, anticipated $21,000. This revenue would be "significantly reduced" as the assessed value would plummet due to the CR.
    • Colette Aufranc:
      • Summary of CR Effect: Allows current owners to use land as is (open space, farming, recreation) with reduced taxes. Benefit to town is preserved open space on Scenic Pond Road.
      • Public Access: Noted that the CR does not include public access, which she believes is appropriate to ask for given the tax reduction.
      • Enforcement: Questioned the Land Trust's funding for CR enforcement, reserves, and how enforcement is shared with the public.
        • Michael Tobin: The Land Trust has enforced three CRs in Wellesley for 40-50 years. Standard practice is annual inspection and monitoring, with reports to landowners. Issues are a private matter between parties. Cited a five-year legal battle where the Land Trust prevailed and set state precedent. Stated the Land Trust has financial reserves and can pursue litigation pro bono. They are starting to build up reserves for perpetual monitoring.
        • Colette Aufranc: Asked if the Land Trust would report to the town on inspections or enforcement. Michael Tobin replied, "No."
      • NRC Opinion: Asked if the Natural Resources Commission (NRC) had formally reviewed or provided feedback. Michael Tobin stated they had not formally presented it but members were informally aware and appreciative.
    • Beth Sullivan Woods:
      • "Very supportive" of the CR, valuing the preservation of open space on a scenic road.
      • Understood the landowner's desire not to grant public access on private property, especially given they are yielding development rights.
      • Believed preserving open space was more important than losing the CR due to lack of public access.
    • Tom Ulfelder:
      • Understood Colette's point about public access but felt that for a two-acre parcel, it would be a "trail to nowhere" given the inability to change conditions on abutting parcels.
      • Emphasized the "significant benefit to the town" in preserving rural land, especially in light of the MassBay Forest discussion.
    • Kenneth Largess: Questioned what specific question would be posed to the NRC that would change the Board's opinion, noting the NRC does not have jurisdiction over private property.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Acknowledged Colette's interest in public access but supported the CR, valuing the preservation of open space and pasture, especially given the small size and lack of public access on other abutting properties.
  • Motion to Approve Conservation Restriction:
    • Motion: To approve the conservation restriction at 50 Pond Road as amended (referring to a spelling correction of Marjorie Freiman's name on the document).
    • Moved by: Colette Aufranc
    • Seconded by: Tom Ulfelder
    • Vote: All in favor (Aye).
    • Outcome: Approved.

Fire Station Master Plan Update

  • Presenters: Chief Steve Mortarelli (Wellesley Fire Department), Glen Remick (FMD), Jeff Shaw (Context Architecture), Emily Mowbray, Selvi Shaw.
  • Overview of Work to Date:
    • Regular meetings with the working group.
    • Finalized response time analysis.
    • Operational analysis nearing finalization.
    • Preliminary discussions of potential master plan scenarios.
  • Response Time Analysis Summary:
    • Current average response time: 4 minutes.
    • 90% of incidents responded to in just over 4 minutes (considered "very good").
    • Hotspots for incidents: Colleges, medical offices, assisted living, multi-family residences.
    • Call volumes have increased every year for the last 10 years (except 2020) and are expected to continue rising.
  • Development Impact:
    • Development (e.g., 700+ housing units) will likely increase call volume beyond average.
    • A third station might be necessary, driven by fire and east call demand (NFPA standard 1710).
    • A third station would only be needed once call volume triggers are met.
  • Master Planning Context:
    • Need to define call volume triggers for a third station.
    • Current stations have space need requirements and inflexibility.
    • Station 2 serves the eastern portion of town where most development is occurring, but is constrained by the light department, train, and Route 9.
  • Master Plan Scenarios:
    • Scenario 1 (Two Projects):
      • Project A: New headquarters (west side) and renovation of Station 2.
      • Project B (future): New east side substation.
      • Challenge: Renovation would require swing space, adding cost.
    • Scenario 2 (All at Once):
      • All projects done simultaneously.
      • Benefit: Potentially cheapest if done at once.
      • Challenge: Requires swing space.
    • Scenario 3 (Phased):
      • One, two, or three phases over 10-20 years.
      • Benefit: Building east side substation first could house crews during Station 2 renovation, eliminating swing space needs.
  • Board Questions and Discussion:
    • Marjorie Freiman: Asked how development level is determined and correlated to increased calls.
      • Jeff Shaw: It's a projection based on general development (e.g., 700+ housing units), historical averages, and anticipated unit types (residential, assisted living, medical facilities). The working group will define call volume triggers.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Asked if demographics of development impact call volume and type of response.
      • Jeff Shaw: Yes, different types of housing (condos vs. single-family) and facilities (assisted living) have different impacts.
    • Kenneth Largess: Asked if traffic increase is modeled, impacting response times.
      • Jeff Shaw: Generally, traffic is not a major factor for emergency vehicles with lights/sirens, except for specific obstacles like grade crossings.
      • Chief Mortarelli: Acknowledged specific problematic areas like 40 Williams Street (one way in/out) and its potential impact with increased units.
    • Tom Ulfelder:
      • Suggested proactive steps like petitioning MassDOT for an emergency left-hand turn off Route 9 East for 40 Williams Street.
      • Expressed concern about the financial implications of building a third station and the need for certainty in projections.
      • Believed predicting call volume based on unit type (rentals, condos, retirement) is feasible.
      • Stressed the responsibility to be "fairly certain" before acquiring land and incurring significant expense.
    • Chief Mortarelli:
      • Agreed on the need to look ahead 20-30 years in a master plan.
      • Stated the immediate need is not a third station, but addressing issues at the 100-year-old Station 1 (cannot fit apparatus, no storage, doesn't meet standards) and similar issues at headquarters.
      • Confirmed that the master plan will include a target call volume that would trigger the need to plan for a third station.
    • Jeff Shaw:
      • Emphasized that the master plan aims to provide options, not a requirement, for a third station.
      • Highlighted the inflexibility of current stations and the constraints at Station 2 (train line, Route 9, light department, substation).
      • Explained that expanding Station 2 is difficult due to site limitations and the need to segregate personnel from garage bays for health and safety.
      • Stated that a major renovation now and another expansion in 10 years is not plausible.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Asked about the efficiency of two stations versus three, and expanding capacity within two sites.
      • Jeff Shaw: Station 1 is likely "off the table" for expansion. Station 2 was studied for expansion, but limitations (site, traffic, disruption to light department) made it unfeasible for significant growth.
      • Glen Remick: Confirmed coordination with DPW master plan. Stated that all scenarios, including two-station and three-station models, will be vetted with cost and schedule analysis.
    • Kenneth Largess: Questioned the assumption of town growth for a three-station model, citing high average house prices and net outflow in Massachusetts.
      • Jeff Shaw: Acknowledged the challenge of predicting the future but noted Wellesley's continuous population growth over 20-25 years and current projected development. The master plan provides a framework for when a third station might be needed, not a mandate.
    • Emily Mowbray: Highlighted the importance of "app support" (decontamination sequence) for firefighter health and safety, which is lacking in both current stations.
    • Beth Sullivan Woods: Clarified that the immediate need is structural (modernizing facilities, health/safety, space crunch), while capacity/number of trucks is a long-term master plan issue.
    • Chief Mortarelli:
      • Reiterated that current response times are within NFPA 1710 standards.
      • The master plan aims to prevent future generations from being "handcuffed" by outdated facilities, as Wellesley has been "overly developed" in the last 10 years.
      • Confident that a new Station 1 is needed "at the least."
  • Next Steps:
    • Analyze options for other sites, including test fitting and ranking.
    • Review scenarios, identified sites, and renovation concepts with the Select Board.
    • Prepare final master planning documentation, including swing space, phasing scenarios, and program allocation for a potential three-station model.
    • Propose timelines and costs for scenarios.

Boston Marathon Invitational Entry Bibs

  • Presenter: Stephanie Hawkinson, Public Information Officer.
  • Background:
    • Wellesley receives bibs due to the marathon route passing through town.
    • Town dedicates extensive resources (DPW, public safety, volunteers) to the marathon.
    • More applications received this year than ever before, including international applicants.
    • Increased interest attributed to reduced non-profit funding and stricter BAA bib allocation.
    • Bibs are never guaranteed.
    • Process involves review by PIO, Executive Director, and Assistant Executive Director.
    • Bibs address community engagement, fundraising, non-profit support, educational scholarships (War Memorial Fund), and charity runners.
    • Considerations include local benefit, community partnership, percentage of funds to mission, and other funding sources.
  • War Memorial Scholarship Fund:
    • Two bibs reserved annually.
    • Six applicants this year.
    • Three recommended: West Point graduate, individual with family in military, Wellesley resident whose grandfather is a career military officer.
    • Two other applicants expressed interest but lack direct military connections.
  • Public Safety Officers:
    • Four bibs reserved (two for Police, two for Fire) as a thank you for marathon day efforts. These individuals do not fundraise.
    • Police: Tyler Sullivan, Alfonso Lopez.
    • Fire: Joseph Matthau, Jake Jewett.
  • Non-Profits:
    • Stephanie recommended 17 non-profits to receive one bib each, based on criteria (local benefit, broad impact, community partnership, funds to mission).
    • One bib remains unallocated, allowing for flexibility (another non-profit, War Memorial runner, or second bib for a worthy non-profit).
  • Board Discussion:
    • Tom Ulfelder: Strongly advocated for Community Investors to receive a bib, citing their "magnificent work" with youth, high fundraising success ($10,000 last year), and the symbolic importance of their participation.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Agreed with Tom, noting Community Investors' high fundraising and community value.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Questioned MassBay Community College Foundation's bib, noting their "general scholarship funding" chart entry and the state's tuition program for over-25s.
    • Beth Sullivan Woods: Agreed with questioning MassBay, suggesting their social service needs might be met by other town resources. Proposed moving MassBay to a "second tier" list to make room for Community Investors.
      • Stephanie Hawkinson: Clarified MassBay's fund is for "essential needs" (food insecurity, transportation, emergency aid) for students at the Wellesley campus. Acknowledged uncertainty about how many students are Wellesley residents.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Expressed concern about removing MassBay, noting that other organizations don't exclusively serve Wellesley residents and that food insecurity is a rising need. Supported adding Community Investors.
    • Colette Aufranc:
      • Confirmed there is one unallocated bib, so Community Investors could be added without removing anyone.
      • Supported keeping MassBay, citing food insecurity among students.
      • Would have considered Human Relations Services.
    • Kenneth Largess: Proposed removing MassBay and World of Wellesley, and substituting Community Investors, League of Women Voters, and Wellesley Historical Society.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Supported adding League of Women Voters (for voter education, especially with low turnout) and Wellesley Historical Society (for their new building and exhibits).
    • Tom Ulfelder: Expressed discomfort with removing MassBay due to the ongoing DCAM project, not wanting to be perceived as retaliatory.
    • Kenneth Largess: Clarified his rationale for removing MassBay was based on their fundraising effectiveness, not retaliation.
    • Corey Testa: Noted that Community Investors received $100,000 from Representative Peysha's office, and the Historical Society received $500,000 through CPC funding, which were factors in initial recommendations.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Expressed concern about World of Wellesley's visibility and programming, especially regarding Indigenous Peoples Day and multicultural observances.
    • Beth Sullivan Woods: Did not want to remove Wellesley Friendly Aid, citing their critical aid and camp fundraiser. Proposed removing Wellesley Theatre Project and adding the Historical Society.
    • Marjorie Freiman: Agreed with removing Wellesley Theatre Project and adding the Historical Society.
  • Final Proposed Amendments:
    • Add Community Investors.
    • Add Wellesley Historical Society.
    • Remove Wellesley Theatre Project.
  • Motion to Approve Bibs:
    • Motion: To approve the Boston Marathon Invitational Entry bibs as detailed in the memorandum from Stephanie Hawkinson dated November 28, 2025, with the following amendments: the inclusion of Community Investors, with the inclusion of the Wellesley Historical Society, and with the removal of the Wellesley Theatre Project.
    • Moved by: Colette Aufranc
    • Seconded by: Tom Ulfelder
    • Vote: All in favor (Aye).
    • Outcome: Approved.
  • Future Policy Discussion: Colette Aufranc suggested including factors like other funding sources and overhead rates in future bib allocation policy discussions.

Discuss and Vote Minutes

  • Item: Minutes from the Moderator's Meeting on October 21, 2025.
  • Motion: To approve the minutes of October 21, 2025, Moderator's Meeting as amended.
    • Moved by: Colette Aufranc
    • Seconded by: Tom Ulfelder
    • Vote: All in favor (Aye).
    • Outcome: Approved.

Chair's Report

  • Marjorie Freiman:
    • Advisory Committee Meeting:
      • Madison (Advisory) circulated a draft of findings on school finances to officers; expects to present to full committee in 1-2 weeks.
      • Received 129 responses to town meeting survey; conclusions to be presented soon.
      • Hearing FY27 budget presentations from departments.
    • School Committee Meeting:
      • Next week, first phase of air conditioning feasibility study to be presented (three options for each of four schools).
      • Consultants will explain ADA compliance requirements for options.
      • Further study on ADA-inclusive construction costs is built into the contract.
      • Fall STM 2026 targeted for design funds.
      • Nikki anticipates a December 16th discussion on the policy subcommittee's draft of the Capital Planning Committee proposal.
    • Council on Aging (COA):
      • Colette Aufranc reported that the COA discussed funding for bus drivers (general fund vs. age grant, and percentages).
      • Colette drafted a funding history for the budget summit and COA Chair/Vice Chair.
    • Liaison Committee Updates: Requested board members submit updates from liaison committees/boards, especially regarding ATM warrant, current initiatives, or other issues.
    • Semi-Annual Retreat: Planning a retreat, likely in January, for mid-year review and work plan update. A Doodle Poll will be sent out.
    • Planning Director Eric Arbini's Departure: Eric Arbini will be leaving the town effective December 31st for the private sector. Marjorie thanked him for his leadership and work on ADUs, Rios, and MBTA communities, wishing him well.

Adjournment

  • Beth Sullivan Woods: Inquired about the budget summit timing.
  • Marjorie Freiman: Confirmed budget summit is next week, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Giuliani Room. No evening meeting next week; next evening meeting is December 16th.
  • Marjorie Freiman: Requested board members send budget questions to Megan and Corey in advance for a more efficient summit.
  • Meghan Jop: Will prepare a "cheat sheet" synopsis for each budget.
  • Marjorie Freiman: Welcomed Rachel back (presumably Rachel Heller, former Assistant Executive Director, now back in an interim capacity).
  • Motion: To adjourn.
  • Outcome: Meeting adjourned.

Last updated: Dec 7, 2025

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