Town Manager's Newsletter

Town of Chelmsford

December 2025

• Dec. 1 Dog Licensing Begins, Winter Book Sale Begins
• Dec. 6 Yard Waste Pick-Up
• Dec. 6 Toys for Tots Fill-a-Cruiser, Gingerbread Festival, Vinal Square Tree Lighting
• Dec. 7 Holiday Prelude, Jazz Quintet at CCA, Fix It Clinic
• Dec. 8 Sharps Drop-Off, Budgetary Meeting
• Dec. 13 Festival of Trees Raffle
• Dec. 14 Hanukkah Story Walk
• Dec. 17 Parker School Forum
• Dec. 18 CCA Writers Group Book Release Party

• Dec. 23 Civics Academy Application Deadline
• Dec. 24 Christmas Eve (Town Offices Close at Noon)
• Dec. 25 Christmas Day (Trash Delay, Town Offices Closed)
• Dec. 31 New Year's Eve (Town Offices Close at Noon)
• Jan. 1 New Year's Day (Trash Delay, Town Offices Closed)
• Jan. 5 Nomination Papers Available, Citizen Petition Deadline

Town Receives $1M Grant for Fire Stations Construction Project

Drill crew digging a geothermal test well at Roberts Field in preparation for installation of a ground-source heat pump

The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources Green Communities Division has approved a $1M grant to the Town of Chelmsford to support the installation of solar panels at the to be constructed new West Chelmsford and South Chelmsford fire stations, as well as the installation of ground-source heat pumps at the West Chelmsford Fire Station that is located adjacent to Roberts Field. Funding was provided under the Climate Leader Communities Decarbonization Accelerator program. Construction on the two replacement fire stations is scheduled to begin within a year. 

Applications are being accepted through December 23 for participation in the Town’s first Civics Academy. The program seeks to strengthen civic engagement by providing residents with a deeper understanding of town government and operations.

The eight-week program will take place on Tuesday evenings beginning on January 27 through March 31. The sessions will take place at various municipal buildings across the community. For more information and to access the on-line application click the button below.

Tri-Board Fiscal Year 2027 Budgetary Meeting

The Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee are scheduled to continue discussions on the Town’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget when they meet on Monday, December 8 at 6:00 PM at the School Administrative Offices at 230 North Road.

Inflation, particularly in health insurance premiums, is outpacing the Town’s funding ability to maintain level-service operations. Health insurance premiums are increasing at double digit levels for the Town’s 1,000 retirees and 700 active employee participants. The Middlesex County Retirement System’s assessment to the Town will increase by 6.5% for the upcoming fiscal year.

The Massachusetts Municipal Association and the Center for State Policy Analysis at Tufts University recent analysis describes the financial challenges confronting Massachusetts cities and towns: A Perfect Storm: Cities and Towns Face Historic Fiscal Pressures  

Third Parker Middle School Building Project Community Forum

The third community forum for the Parker School Middle School building project is scheduled for Wednesday, December 17 at 7:00 PM at the Chelmsford Elks Lodge, 300 Littleton Road, Chelmsford. Discussions will include the grade configuration for a new school, new construction or renovation/expansion, and site location. Please contribute to the schematic design for a school facility that would serve modern educational needs. 

Select Board Approves Grant Application for Police Body-Worn Cameras

The Select Board has approved a request from Police Chief Colin Spence to equip the Police Department with body-worn cameras. The cameras have become a common part of current police operations. They provide transparency, accountability, and evidence-based benefits to police operations. The grant would provide the funding for the purchase of the body-worn cameras, video data storage, and software operations. A decision on the grant award is expected within the next six months. 

Citizen Petition Articles for Spring Annual Town Meeting

The Town of Chelmsford will convene the 2026 Spring Town Meeting on Monday, April 27, 2026. Articles to be included on the Warrant must be submitted to the Office of the Town Manager at 50 Billerica Road prior to 4:00 PM on Monday, January 5, 2026. Petitioned articles must carry the signatures of at least ten voters. For more information, please contact the Town Manager’s Office at 978-250-5202.

Triton Systems Expands with State-of-the-Art Cold Spray Manufacturing Facility

Pictured: David Model, Chief Executive Officer of Triton Systems, cuts the ribbon with onlookers including Congresswoman Laurie Trahan and Town Manager Paul Cohen

Triton Systems, a military research and design company serving the U.S. Department of Defense, has opened its second Chelmsford location. From its primary site at 330 Billerica Road, Triton has added a light manufacturing facility at 250 Apollo Drive dedicated to Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing (CSAM), a next-generation process that uses supersonic metal particle deposition to repair, restore, and produce high-performance components without melting. This technology is critical for defense and aerospace applications, enabling faster turnaround and stronger supply chain resilience. The Chelmsford facility is one of only three in the United States with this capability. Click below to read the full press release.

Chelmsford Winter Market at Town Hall

The Chelmsford Town Hall Winter Market is located at 50 Billerica Road (rear entrance) in the gymnasium on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturdays of the month, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Come shop with local vendors offering artisan wares and farm-fresh foods. There is plenty of parking, the gymnasium is handicapped accessible, and the Market Manager is always on site.

For a listing of participating vendors, find Chelmsford Market on the Common on Facebook or click the button below. Contact people@chelmsfordma.gov for more information.

Community Garden 2026 Signups

The Chelmsford Community Garden is currently accepting applications for returning gardeners to renew their plots for the 2026 season. There are also a limited number of plots at the Sunny Meadow and Wotton Street locations available for new gardeners. Returning and new gardeners can apply by filling out the 2026 Garden Application. 

The annual Opening Meeting will be Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 1:30 PM at the Chelmsford Public Library. The meeting is free and open to the public. It will be a good opportunity for all gardeners to discuss updates for the 2026 gardening season. For more information on the community gardens, please visit the Community Garden webpage.

Chelmsford Police & Fire Collecting Toys for Tots

Join the Chelmsford Police Department for their 13th Annual Toys for Tots Fill-a-Cruiser event on Saturday, December 6 at Walmart in Chelmsford.

Starting at 9:00 AM, officers will be collecting new, unwrapped toys to help local children and families in need this holiday season. The goal this year is to collect over 3,000 toys — and with your help, we can make it happen!

Stop by the CPD cruisers parked outside Walmart to drop off your donations, say hello to our officers, and help spread some holiday cheer throughout the community.

Additionally, the Chelmsford Fire Department has placed Toys for Tots collection bins in the lobby of the Fire Headquarters and the first floor at Town Offices at 50 Billerica Road through December 15.

Your generosity helps make the season brighter for hundreds of local kids — thank you for supporting this meaningful tradition! 

Chelmsford Choice New Electricity Supply Contract

Chelmsford Choice, the Town’s electricity aggregation program, has transitioned to a new 24-month contract with Direct Energy Services, LLC. All participants will see new, lower supply rates on their December National Grid bills.

The Select Board has selected the mid-tier electricity price as the new default for all residents. This choice strikes a balance between advancing our community’s sustainability goals and keeping costs affordable for residents. Under the new “Basic Green” default option, residents will receive 20% more of their electricity from renewable sources at a rate of 14.720 ¢/kWh.

Residents may choose to opt down to the “Economy” option at 14.000 ¢/kWh for the lowest price or opt up to the “Greenest” option at 16.490 ¢/kWh for 100% renewable energy. Participation is voluntary, and changes can be made at any time without penalty.

For more information or to change your option, click the button below or call customer support at 844-483-5004.

Chelmsford's Holiday Celebrations

December in Chelmsford brings a special glow, as neighbors gather to celebrate the season’s traditions. Whether you’re joining in the festive tree lightings, enjoying music and treats, or taking part in a peaceful lantern walk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Vinal Square Tree Lighting

Saturday, December 6, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Vinal Square, North Chelmsford Common

Celebrate the season at the Annual Vinal Square Tree Lighting. Enjoy live music in the gazebo, festive treats, and holiday crafts and activities for children. Santa will arrive by fire truck to light the tree, and families can take photos and write wish lists with him. Bundle up, bring your family and friends, and share in the warmth of community and holiday cheer.

If you are interested in volunteering or donating, please contact Brian Creamer at brian.f.creamer@gmail.com.

Chelmsford Holiday Prelude

Sunday, December 7, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Chelmsford Town Center and Common

Continue the festivities at the Annual Holiday Prelude—a joyful evening filled with music, lights, and community spirit. Enjoy traditional horse-drawn and tractor hayrides, free goodies, face painting, live performances, and a visit from Santa. The Town Center tree lighting will take place at 5:00 PM. Admission to most activities is free, and donations are appreciated.

Hanukkah Story Lantern Walk

Sunday, December 14, 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Sunny Meadow Farm, 168 Robin Hill Road

Join us for a peaceful evening of light and storytelling as we celebrate Hanukkah with a lantern walk through the farm.

Chelmsford’s Giancarla Kalpas Receives Prestigious Award for Native Plant Leadership

The Sudbury Valley Trustees have presented Chelmsford resident Giancarla Kalpas with the Lewis Conservation Award, recognizing her exceptional contributions to native pollinator habitat restoration and biodiversity. Giancarla has spent more than three decades championing conservation efforts, from protecting eastern bluebirds to promoting native plants that support declining pollinator species.

As a leader in the Bumblebee Project of the Metrowest Conservation Alliance, Giancarla shares her expertise through public presentations, instructional videos, winter sowing workshops, and hands-on guidance for pollinator gardens. Her mentorship has inspired projects across Chelmsford, including the pollinator garden at Thanksgiving Forest and contributions to the Burbank Pollinator Garden through her Sunny Meadows nursery.

Karen Walton, a key volunteer at Thanksgiving Forest, praised Giancarla’s influence: “Giancarla is a wonderful mentor, and our community is incredibly fortunate to have her in our midst—and in our garden.”

Giancarla’s efforts align with Chelmsford’s goals to preserve habitat and enhance biodiversity, making our town a healthier and more vibrant place to live.

Learn more about the Sudbury Valley Trustees and Giancarla’s award by clicking below.

The Planning Board will next meet on December 10 in Room 204 of Town Offices at 6:30 PM. Continued public hearings will include 295 Acton Road for Fire Station 5, 260 Old Westford Road for Fire Station 3, 133 Princeton Street for modifications and 152 Stedman Street, the former Glenview landfill, for the construction of a commercial solar farm project.

The Conservation Commission will next meet on December 9. 

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet next on December 4. 

The posted agendas for these meetings will be available on the agenda center of the Town’s website.

Community Canopy: How One Family Sparked a Greener Future

What happens when a wife is inspired by the book Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation in Your Yard by Douglas W. Tallamy, a husband is dismayed by dozens of trees cut down and not replaced, and a young son rallies his friends to help? You get the Shah family’s community-driven tree planting project at Chelmsford Village.

Recently, Asish and Shital Shah led the effort to plant 16 native trees, supporting one of the goals outlined in the Town’s Open Space Survey: increasing Chelmsford’s tree canopy. To fund the initiative, Mr. Shah secured $5,000 from the Chelmsford Village Homeowners Association for purchasing and planting the trees.

Working with the Conservation Commission and Jim Martin, formerly of the Chelmsford Tree Committee, the team selected appropriate locations and native species to ensure long-term success.

For Mr. Shah, the best part of the project was the interest and involvement of the children of the community who help to water the trees. Seeing the youth getting involved makes it extra sweet!

For more information on starting a similar project, contact the Chelmsford Conservation Commission at 978-250-5231 (option 2).

CPAL 4th Annual Dueling Piano Show

The Chelmsford Police Athletic League (CPAL) is excited to present its 4th Annual Dueling Piano Show on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Princeton Station. This lively fundraiser features the world-famous Howl 2 Go by Howl at the Moon, bringing their high-energy, all-request dueling piano performance to Chelmsford for a night filled with music, comedy, and crowd-favorite sing-alongs. Doors open at 6:30 PM, with the show beginning at 7:30 PM.

Tickets will be on sale soon; for the purchase link, please visit ChelmsfordPAL.com/events. All proceeds support CPAL’s youth programs, helping provide local kids with positive activities, mentorship, and community engagement opportunities.

Overnight Demolition Activities on the Westford Street Bridge over I-495

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing overnight demolition operations on the bridge carrying Westford Street over I-495. Temporary overnight lane closures will be in place on I-495 northbound and southbound, Sunday through Thursday nights from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM the following morning, beginning Monday, December 1, through Wednesday morning, December 31.    

Following the beginning of demolition, pedestrian access across the bridge will be restricted throughout the remainder of bridge deck construction. Vehicle access was restricted during the bridge closure in June 2025, and drivers should continue to follow the established detour route. 

Bridge deck demolition work will have noise impacts and will mainly take place between the hours of 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Noise monitoring stations have been installed to monitor noise levels throughout this work. The project team will follow the approved noise and dust control plans to minimize impacts to neighbors. 

For more information on the project and to sign up for advisories and notices, please visit the website at www.mass.gov/info-details/about-the-chelmsford-lowell-bridge-bundle-replacement-project. For questions or to report issues related to construction, please contact ChelmsfordLowellBridges@dot.state.ma.us.

Deck the Halls Responsibly! Holiday String Light Disposal

As the holiday season continues, remember to dispose of non-working string lights in an environmentally responsible way. Before discarding, check if they can be repaired by replacing a blown fuse.

If the lights are beyond repair, do not place them in the trash or recycling bin as these regular facilities are not equipped to handle string lights. Instead, take advantage of the four collection boxes located around town: Senior Center, Adams Library, Town Offices, and DPW.

These drop-off locations will accept unusable string lights through January 31, 2026.

If your lights are still working, consider donating them. Simple Recycling and other household donation sites gladly accept functional string lights.

For questions, contact Sustainability Manager Chris Haley at 978-250-5023 or chaley@chelmsfordma.gov.

Curbside Yard Waste Pickup December 6

The next residential curbside yard waste pickup will take place on Saturday, December 6.

• Material must be out by 6:30 AM
• Brush must be tied in rope or twine, no larger than 4’x6’ piles, maximum 3 piles per household
• Brush maximum size is 3” in diameter and 6’ long
• Christmas trees will be accepted - all wires and ornaments must be removed
• All leaves and grass clippings must be bagged or barreled
• Unlimited bags/barrels for leaves and grass clippings
• No rocks, dirt, sand, or mulch will be accepted

Please note that curbside yard waste collection is not offered to multi-family or condominium complexes. Community Tree accepts brush all year for a fee: 978-256-0341

The first pickup of 2026 will occur on May 16. 

Want an Easy Option for Your Christmas Tree?

If you’d prefer not to wait until the May 2026 Town pickup to leave your tree curbside, Scout Troop 75 offers a convenient pickup service for a fee. Schedule a Troop 75 Christmas tree pickup online and support local scouting while making cleanup simple. 

Holiday Day Trash Delays

There will be no solid waste or recycling collection on Thursday, December 25 and Thursday, January 1 due to the Christmas Day and New Year’s Day holidays. Collection for the rest of those weeks will be delayed by one day. Please note that no bulk items are collected during holiday weeks.

Nomination Papers Available in January for Elected Town Offices

Interested in running for Town Office in 2026?

On January 5, nomination papers will be available in the Town Clerk's Office for these open seats:

Town-Wide Offices:

• One Select Board Members for three years;
• Two School Committee Members for three years;
• Two Planning Board Members for three years;
• One Board of Health Member for three years;
• Three Trustees of Public Library Members for three years;
• One Cemetery Commission Member for three years;
• One Housing Authority Member for five years; 
• One Moderator for three years; 

Town Meeting Representative:

• Five open seats for three-year terms available in each precinct, Precincts 1-11.
• One unexpired one-year term in Precincts 5 and 6.

Additional seats may become available if vacancies arise.

As potential candidates pull papers, that list will be updated here.

The deadline to obtain nomination papers is February 12, 2026 at 5:00 PM and must be returned by February 17, 2026 at 5:00 PM.

Annual Town Census

The 2026 Annual Town Census will be mailed to every household in early January. Participating in the town census keeps our voting list up to date. Returning your town census keeps you ACTIVE on the voting list and eliminates the need to step out of line at the polls to sign an affirmation that you still live at that address. Even if you are not a registered voter, responding to the census will ensure that the Town Clerk’s Office can provide you with proof of residency. An accurate count of residents in Chelmsford assists in providing better municipal services.

Online Response: You will be able to respond online if there are no changes to your census form! Your form will have your household’s ID# on it with a link to respond online if you have no changes. If you have changes, mark them on the form, sign, and return to the Town Clerk’s Office.

2026 Dog Licensing

2026 Dog Licensing has begun! All current licenses will expire on December 31.

The license fee is $20 for a spayed/neutered dog or $25 if unaltered. Proof of up-to-date rabies vaccination is required to license; please provide a rabies certificate at the time of licensing.

Renewals: Previously licensed dogs can renew online, by mail, or in the town clerk’s office.

New dogs: Register by mail with a check or in the town clerk’s office.

Late go into effect starting on March 1. $5 per month will be added on to the initial tag fee through June 1. Citations go into effect starting on June 15. Each citation adds an extra $50 on top of the original tag cost and any late fees.

Click the button below for more info and links to online license renewal and mail application.

Saturday, December 6, from 10:00 AM - noon.

Enjoy a variety of gingerbread crafts--including decorating a gingerbread cookie with frosting and candy! Registration is required to attend; please register every child from your family who will be decorating a cookie. There are four 30-minute sessions, which are all identical, please sign up for only one! 

Fix It Clinic

The Library will host another Fix It Clinic on Sunday, December 7 from 1:30 to 4:30 PM. Come with your broken items and learn to fix your stuff from local volunteers! Please register to let us know you are coming and what item(s) you need to fix. Examples of what can be fixed include: clothing/ textiles, device and computer hardware, jewelry, bicycles, household appliances, and more!

Contact Jianna Christopher at jchristopher@chelmsfordlibrary.org or 978-256-5521 x1107 with questions. 

Chelmsford Health Department Receives Prestigious Department Distinction Award 

The Chelmsford Health Department is honored to be recognized by the Massachusetts Health Officers Association (MHOA) with the Health Department Distinction Award for outstanding efforts in improving public health within our community.

This award highlights the Department’s dedication to building a healthier, more connected Chelmsford through innovative programming, community partnerships, and inclusive events—most notably the Chelmsford Fall Festival.

Now in its fourth year, the Fall Festival has become a cornerstone of community engagement, offering free family entertainment, health resources, and local vendor participation that promotes wellness and togetherness across all ages.

We’re incredibly proud of our staff, volunteers, and community partners who make these initiatives possible. Together, we continue to strengthen Chelmsford’s public health and well-being—one event, one connection, and one neighbor at a time.

Pictured left to right: Department Assistant Nancy Danahy, Community Wellness and Inspectional Specialist Taryn Angel, Public Health Director Donna Greenwood, and Public Health Nurse Darcy Beall.

Taking Care of Your Mental Health During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is often filled with joy, family gatherings, and celebration—but it can also bring stress, loneliness, and anxiety. For many Chelmsford residents, the weeks around Christmas can feel overwhelming. The Chelmsford Health Department encourages everyone to prioritize mental well-being during this time.

The holidays can be stressful due to financial pressures from gift-giving and travel, increased social obligations, feelings of isolations for those away from family or grieving a loss, and seasonal changes that affect mood and energy.

Tips for Maintaining Mental Wellness

1. Set Realistic Expectations: The holidays don’t have to be perfect. Focus on what matters most—connection and kindness.
2. Stick to Healthy Habits: Maintain regular sleep, exercise, and balanced meals. Avoid overindulgence in food or alcohol.
3. Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care: Schedule time for yourself. A walk, reading, or quiet moments can help reduce stress.
4. Reach Out for Support: If you’re feeling lonely or overwhelmed, connect with friends, family, or local resources. Talking about your feelings can make a big difference.
5. Know When to Seek Help: If stress or sadness becomes persistent, professional help is available. Chelmsford residents can contact the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line at 833-773-2445, visit masshelpline.com, or call 9-8-8.

Remember: Taking care of your mental health is just as important as physical health. Let’s make this holiday season a time of compassion—for ourselves and others.

Medical Sharps Drop-Off December 8

The Health Department will host its Medical Sharps Disposal Drop-Off on December 8, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Residents can safely dispose of used needles, syringes, and other sharps at the Health Department office to help prevent injuries and protect the environment. Proper disposal is essential for community safety. Please ensure all sharps are in a sealed, puncture-proof container before drop-off. For more information visit the Health Department’s webpage or call 978-250-5241.