In this solo administrative update, we recap the February 23 snow state of emergency, thank our incredible DPW and public safety teams (seriously, they’ve been outstanding), preview the rescheduled Select Board agenda.

We also launch a brand new, spring centric segment: Farmers Market Minute your go-to source for spring gardening tips, backyard growing info, and everything happening with our Agricultural Commission and more specifically during our May–October Farmers Market. Don’t miss details on the free Backyard Growing Series starting March 19 at the Senior Community Center. Learn more at: www.westminstermafarmersmarket.com

Plus: Tech Thursdays at the Library, budget season updates, and what’s ahead as we eventually thaw out.
Be sure to follow and listen at AWCM.org, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, or wherever you stream and share with a neighbor who likes staying in the loop.

Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email [email protected] — your input makes the show!

Stephanie is back with her first guest of 2026, Police Chief Matt LeMay. They discuss what brought him to Westminster, what he’s learned about the community so far, small-town policing, staffing, and the department’s new public-facing Police Bulletin.

Plus, she debuts a new Select Board Meeting Recap segment covering key highlights from the February 9 meeting, and share details on Parks & Rec February vacation events for Westminster kids

Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email [email protected] — your input makes the show!

Episode 18 is a short, solo update after Winter Storm Fern threw a wrench into our regularly scheduled programming. Stephanie recaps the storm (nearly two feet of snow, no power outages or major issues), thanks DPW and Public Safety; she shares important winter safety reminders, and explains why the Select Board meeting and a new segment debut had to be rescheduled. Budget season is officially underway, and even when plans change, our commitment to keeping Westminster informed stays the same.

Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email [email protected] — your input makes the show

In this year-in-review episode of The Town Crier, Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen looks back on 2025 and sets the stage for 2026. The episode reflects on how the podcast began, what residents asked about most, and the most-listened-to episode of the year featuring Select Board Clerk Mike Cooley, with thanks to Ash West Community Media, and all who helped share the show. You’ll also hear the start of budget season, a few details on Massachusetts property valuations and why tax bills changed, the new 2026 tax rate of $11.73, plus updates on the 25th edition of the South Street Sentinel, Annual Town Report photo submissions, community events, progress on Old Town Hall, and a preview of upcoming guests and topics for 2026.

Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email [email protected] — your input makes the show

It’s that time of year again. Special Town Meeting, trick-or-treat, and plenty happening around Westminster!

In this episode, Stephanie breaks down the six articles on the draft November 18th Special Town Meeting warrant, explains common Town Meeting buzzwords (like Free Cash and Stabilization), answers listener questions about the local motel and updated FEMA flood maps, and runs through all the Halloween and community events you won’t want to miss — including the Bonfire at the VFW Field.

Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email [email protected] — your input makes the show!

Thanks for tuning back in after our short hiatus! In this episode, we’re catching up on all the happenings around Westminster over the last six weeks. 

Stephanie shares updates on the swearing-in of Police Chief Matthew LeMay, the ongoing Old Town Hall restoration, and the MBTA Communities bylaw passing at the September 16, Special Town Meeting.

We’ll also cover fall highlights including the 10th Annual Cracker Festival, Halloween festivities, and a preview of the November Special Town Meeting. Plus, there are still openings in the 60% AMI category at the Westminster Senior Residences—applications available at www.westminsterseniorresidences.com

Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email [email protected] — your input makes the show!

This week on The Town Crier, Health Director Abby Conlin joins us to cover flu clinics, rodent concerns, home kitchen permitting for local bakers and food enthusiasts, and the everyday permits handled by the Health Department. We also dig into well water vs. town water, Title 5 bedroom rules, the new ADU bylaw, and seasonal reminders on ticks and mosquitoes. Abby shares the latest on PFAS and how residents can get answers to their water quality related questions.

We’ll wrap with a summer send-off and a look ahead to the MBTA Communities Special Town Meeting on September 16.

Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email [email protected] — your input makes the show!

Stephanie recaps Summer Rec, previews Benefit Day and the Firefighter Muster, and shares updates on planned MBTA Communities Special Town Meeting, and a little about back-to-school. Notice: Town water users should expect a letter this weekend about elevated TTHMs—contact DPW with questions.

Feedback, questions, comments and suggestions for content always welcomed at [email protected]

In this episode, we’re joined by Planning Director Ryan Doherty for an in-depth look at two of big topics in Westminster: the Master Plan Update and the upcoming MBTA Communities zoning article.
Ryan walks us through how residents can get involved, key dates, the survey currently underway, and a lot of important details about the MBTA Communities law.

We also recap the Fire Department’s 200th anniversary celebration, monument rededication, and recent Select Board updates on the Police Chief hiring process.

For more information and helpful FAQs about the MBTA Communities zoning initiative, visit:
https://www.westminster-ma.gov/planning-department/pages/mbta-communities3a-information

Subscribe and send in your questions to [email protected]!

Taxes don’t have to be a mystery!

In this episode of The Town Crier, Treasurer/Collector Melinda Horrigan joins us to break down how your tax bills are calculated, when and how to pay them, and what to do if you fall behind. We cover real estate taxes, motor vehicle excise tax, online payment options, and common myths residents often have about the process.

Plus, Academy Hill Park is officially open! After a soft opening on July 5, families can now enjoy the new climbing structures, slides, and picnic areas. We share rules for using the park and details on temporary parking while the finishing touches are completed.

Stay informed, and keep your questions coming to [email protected].