Development News for Sturbridge, Massachusetts

Town Administrator Approved for Vacation Hour Carryover

The Select Board approved the carryover of 140 vacation hours for the town administrator into fiscal year 26-27. The administrator plans to take time off in June, and the carryover ensures these hours are utilized. The board acknowledged the need for staff to use their accrued time.

Recreation Department Announces Summer Programs, New Kids Market, and Expanded Winter Event

The Recreation Department provided an update on upcoming summer and fall events and programs. Highlights include a successful spring bonfire event, a larger-than-usual farmers market that is now self-funded through vendor fees, and an upcoming concert series starting June 11th. A new initiative, the Sturbridge Kids Market, will launch on August 30th, offering entrepreneurial opportunities for children. The department also plans an expanded winter market event combined with the tree lighting ceremony and a Wusox takeover event on July 21st. They are experimenting with new dates for the fall bonfire and tree lighting to optimize attendance and experience.

Town Issues $2.11 Million in Bonds for Senior Center and Water Projects; Maintains AA+ Stable Rating

The Select Board approved the sale of $2,110,000 in general obligation municipal purpose bonds to Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. at a price of $2,038,444.44, plus accrued interest. The bonds will finance the remaining balance of the senior center project ($1,780,000) and a water project for treatment plant media replacement ($465,000). The sale generated a premium of approximately $204,000, which will cover issuance costs, with the remainder ($135,000) used for resizing the bonds. The town's bond rating was confirmed as AA+ stable by Standard & Poor's, reflecting strong financial management, a solid tax base, and consistent operating surpluses, though it remains one step below AAA due to debt ratio factors related to the Worcester retirement system.

Garrett Skinner Appointed Veteran Services Director

The board appointed Garrett Skinner as the town's Veteran Services Director, effective June 2nd. Skinner, who has extensive military experience including time at the Pentagon, will combine hours from his existing role in Barrie with hours in Sturbridge to meet the requirements for VA claims certification. He expressed willingness to conduct outreach and serve as a liaison for veterans, addressing concerns about reaching younger veterans who may be hesitant to visit the senior center. The board expressed enthusiasm for his appointment and the proactive support he can provide to local veterans.