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].

Happy Fourth of July, Westminster! In this special holiday episode, Stephanie sits down with Fire Chief Kyle Butterfield and Acting Police Chief Jason Tamulen, for a full rundown of practical tips to keep your family safe this summer. From fireworks rules and backyard fire and water safety, heatwave preparedness, and what to do during large gatherings. 

Plus, get the latest on, Academy Hill Park soft opening, Woo Sox Town Takeover Night on July 31st, Westminster Town Band summer concerts, Fire Department’s 200th Anniversary events, Road construction updates, trail volunteer opportunities, and more to help you plan your July.

Stay informed, stay safe, and celebrate responsibly!

In Episode 9 of The Town Crier, Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen goes solo to answer a wide range of listener questions. Topics include the town’s fiscal year, Town Meeting basics, cell coverage, and updates on hot topics like the Westminster Country Club, Old Town Hall, and Academy Hill Playground. Stephanie also shares community announcements, including the June 14 Town-Wide Yard Sale and Yankee Street Fair, the August 10 Neighbors Helping Neighbors Benefit Day, and Wyman Lake treatment info. Plus, a big thank-you to Trails Day volunteers and reminders to stay connected and keep the questions coming.

In this episode of The Town Crier, we welcome Tyler Careau from Westminster’s own Boy Scout Troop 33. Tyler shares insights into his Eagle Scout journey, past Eagle Scout projects completed in town, the impact of Scouting on local volunteerism and the story behind his Eagle Scout project at the VFW Pavilion.

If you’d like more information, Tyler can be reached at [email protected].
We also share updates on Adams Street’s 40B project receiving state Project Eligibility, highlight important summer events around town, and answer listener-submitted questions in our “Ask the Town” segment.

As always, submit your questions or feedback to [email protected], and don’t forget to subscribe!

In this episode of The Town Crier, we break down the results from Westminster’s Annual Town Meeting and Town Election, including voter turnout, key bylaw changes, and capital investments. We reveal the winning name for the new Academy Hill Playground and answer listener questions about what happens to surplus town property like old vehicles and office equipment.Our featured guest is Select Board Clerk Missy Banks, who reflects on her recent re-election, proud moments from her first term, and what she’s learned along the way. She also shares how her volunteer background shaped her approach to public service—and offers advice to anyone thinking about getting involved in local government.Tune in for upcoming event reminders including Parks & Rec programs, the Farmers Market, Crocker Pond opening, and Woo Sox Town Takeover Night.