Development News for Pembroke, Massachusetts

Council Agent Building Study Results Pending, Bylaw Committee Reform Discussed

The board discussed the status of the public safety building project and the council agent building. Regarding the council agent building, a study was engaged through OCPC two months prior, but board members have not yet received the results and requested them to be shared. The board also addressed the bylaw committee, noting it needs reorganization and a defined mission statement. It was suggested that a select board member should sit on the committee, and a working group might be formed to restructure it. A separate request was made to establish a working group for values, goals, and priorities for the select board and town. Lastly, the reappointment of liaison positions was confirmed for the next meeting.

Pembroke Select Board Approves $40 Increase in Annual Trash and Recycling Fees

The board voted to increase the municipal user fee for trash and recycling services by $40 per year, raising the fiscal year 2026 fee to $440 and the fiscal year 2027 fee to $480. This increase is attributed to rising costs in hauling, tipping fees, and recycling contamination. The board emphasized that even with the increase, Pembroke's fees remain competitive compared to neighboring towns, and the town provides additional services such as free curbside pickup of bulky items and hazardous waste days.