Town Manager's Newsletter

Town of Chelmsford

February 2026

• Feb. 1 Fix-It Clinic
• Feb. 2 Q3 Tax Bills Due
• Feb. 7 Simon & Garfunkel Tribute
• Feb. 12 Last Day to Obtain Nomination Papers
• Feb. 14 Soul Train Dance Party, StickMan Blue Concert
• Feb. 16 Washington's Birthday (Trash Delay, Town Offices Closed)

• Feb. 19 Thrive Ed. Program
• Feb. 20 Comedy at CCA
• Feb. 24 Invasives Program
• Feb. 26 Health Dept. Drop‑In
• Feb. 27 Bob Dylan Tribute
• Feb. 27 Volunteer Fair RSVP Deadline
• Feb. 28 Jazz Brunch
• Mar. 1 Dog License Late Fees Begin

Fire Stations Construction Project to Seek Bids

The Town is expected to solicit bids in early March for the construction of replacement fire stations at the site of the West Fire Station at 260 Old Westford Road (Roberts Field) and the South Fire Station at 295 Acton Road. 

In accordance with State procurement laws, the Town has prequalified 15 general contractor firms to bid on this $26M project. The project architect The Galante Architecture Studio and owner’s project manager LeftField are working to finalize the construction drawings prior to the solicitation of bids.   

The Parker School Building Committee has submitted the preliminary design report to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). During the preliminary design phase, the project team considered 14 distinct options at three locations for a new or renovated/expanded middle school. 

The three locations were the site of the current Parker School, the Graniteville Road fields, and the McCarthy Middle School fields. The Building Committee unanimously recommends that the existing Parker School site serve as the location for a new or renovated/expanded middle school. 

During the upcoming three months, three grade configurations will be evaluated: Grades 5 - 6, 4 - 6, and 5 - 8. Adding the 4^th grade to the middle school would create enrollment space at the Town’s four elementary schools. A community forum for public input will be announced in the upcoming weeks prior to the Town’s submission of a preferred school option and cost estimate to the MSBA in May.  

Town Wins Employee Wellness Award

The Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA) has granted the Town of Chelmsford a 2025 wellness award for “Most Innovative Wellness Champion” for the work done by Human Resources Director Lisa Marrone.

Lisa has significantly expanded Chelmsford’s Wellness Program, doubling participation in just 18 months. Her passion, dedication and creativity have fostered a strong culture of wellness for both town and school staff through engaging and meaningful programs. Lisa works closely with your MIIA Wellness Program Engagement Specialist, Carrie Milardo, to bring customized programs to the employees in Chelmsford.

Chelmsford's Chevonne Forgan Heading to Winter Olympics

Chelmsford is celebrating hometown athlete Chevonne Forgan (CHS Class of 2018) as she heads to the 2026 Winter Olympics to compete in women’s doubles luge. Chevonne and her family moved to Chelmsford in 2011 from Adelaide, South Australia. At age 12, she attended a slider search event in Carlisle, MA, an introduction to the sport that set her on the path to elite luge.

Forgan and her doubles partner, Sophia Kirkby, enter the Milano‑Cortina Games following a standout 2024–25 season, which saw them finish third in the world rankings and add to their growing collection of World Championship medals. As pioneers in the first Olympic cycle to include women’s doubles luge, they represent a historic moment for the sport and for Team USA.

Chelmsford also proudly recognizes another local standout: Jack Eichel of North Chelmsford, NHL star and center for the Vegas Golden Knights, who has been named to the 2026 U.S. Olympic Men’s Hockey Team.

Maggie Marshall: Library Champion

Margaret "Maggie" Marshall will step down as Library Trustee in April 2026 after 30 years of extraordinary service. First elected in 1996, she helped shepherd the library expansion project to its successful opening in early 2000 – on Leap Day! From the outset, her dedication and impact have been nothing short of remarkable.

Working in libraries since 1973, and the first professional library director in Pelham, NH, Maggie brought over 35 years of deep understanding of the challenges libraries face, and the importance of fostering a welcoming environment for both patrons and staff. She played a key role in hiring beloved Library Director Becky Herrmann in 2001 and later helped recruit current Director Lesley Kimball.

Maggie has been instrumental in fundraising for major initiatives including the Pop-Up Library Truck and the Scoboria Greenway, and essential building improvements to the MacKay Branch Library in North Chelmsford. She's served on Chelmsford's Capital Planning Committee, been active with Friends of the Library, marched in countless parades, and even entertained at library events playing keyboard with her favorite puppet, Silas.

Maggie took the time to welcome and mentor new trustees and helped to invite a diversity of perspectives into library planning. Most importantly, she has championed making the library welcoming and inclusive and has never faltered in her support for the library staff.

Maggie's leadership, commitment, and generous spirit have left a lasting mark on Chelmsford. We wish her a wonderful retirement filled with travel, family, and books!

The Planning Board will next meet on February 11 in Room 204 of Town Offices at 6:30 PM. A new public hearing for 191-195 Riverneck Road will open. This project proposes a three-lot industrial subdivision per the Planning Board’s Subdivision Control Regulations. The Planning Board will also meet on February 25.

The Conservation Commission will next meet on February 10 and February 24.

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet next on February 5 at the Senior Center to open a public hearing on the administrative appeal for Ledge Road truck traffic. 

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

Capture Some Beauty at Redwing Farm

Nestled on Maple Road near Heart Pond and Byam Elementary School, the 12½-acre property at Redwing Farm Reservation is just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic place to walk your dog, the area has something to offer. Visitors are encouraged to explore the property, which is open daily from dawn to dusk. Redwing Farm Trail Map

This beautiful photography backdrop was further enhanced in October with the replacement of 630 feet of post-and-rail fencing, made possible through the efforts of dedicated volunteers from NVIDIA. The project was organized by Scott Venier, a board member of the Chelmsford Land Conservation Trust, with support from Conservation Commission Chair Karl Bischoff, and other town open space volunteers.

If you or your business are interested in volunteering for future conservation projects in Chelmsford, please contact Conservation Commission Chair Karl Bischoff at kbischoff@chelmsfordma.gov, Conservation Agent David Koonce at 978-250-5231 option 2, or any of the Conservation Commission members.

Support Town Goal to Manage Invasive Species

Chelmsford is not alone in its challenge to keep invasive plants under control. There is an effort underway throughout our region to encourage and inform homeowners to help manage this threat to our natural ecosystems. Chelmsford residents can participate with residents of other local towns to keep the seeds of these invasives from reinfecting public areas. To volunteer to help remove invasives in Chelmsford Town Conservation areas, please contact Conservation Commission Chair Karl Bischoff or Conservation Agent David Koonce at 978-250-5231 option 2.

Private landowners are essential to help us combat invasive plants and promote a healthy landscape. Learn about our most common invasive plants and how to manage them by prioritizing your goals. 

Register to join the online zoom with Sudbury Valley Trust Conservation Restriction Manager Kristin O’Brien, on February 24 at 7:00 PM.

10-Year Smoke Detectors Are Expiring

Ten years ago, Massachusetts updated the Comprehensive Fire Safety Code, requiring most replacement smoke alarms in homes to have sealed, 10-year lithium batteries and a hush feature. Many homes installed these alarms in 2015, and they have now reached the end of their lifespan.

What You Need to Know

• Smoke alarms do not last forever. After 10 years, they become unreliable.
• Check the manufacturing date printed on the back of your smoke detector. If the date is 2016 or earlier, replace the alarm immediately.
• These lithium batteries are sealed and non-replaceable; the entire unit must be replaced.

When Buying New Alarms

• Look for the UL or Intertek/ETL mark (independent lab testing).
• Choose models with:
• Sealed, long-life battery
• Hush feature

Proper Disposal of Expired Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms with sealed lithium batteries must not go in household trash or curbside recycling.

They should be taken to:

• Household hazardous waste collection sites
• Battery recycling centers
• Some manufacturers have mail-in recycling programs

Chelmsford options:

• Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off on April 25
• Battery & Bulb Shed behind Town Offices open 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM on the first Wednesday of the month from April through November
• McCarthy and Center School PTO E-Waste and Junk Recycle Day on May 2

Bruins Alumni vs. Chelmsford/Westford Police

Come join Voices of Hope for a night of nostalgia and excitement at the Warrior Ice Arena! Watch former Boston Bruins players hit the ice against the Chelmsford and Westford Police Departments once again for a thrilling exhibition game.

This event promises to be a memorable experience for hockey fans of all ages. Don't miss out on the chance to see your favorite players lace up their skates and showcase their skills and all to raise money for cancer research at the Termeer Center for Targeted Therapies at the MGB Cancer Institute. Grab your tickets now!

Front Yard Tree Planting Program

Want a free tree planted in your yard?

Help support the Town’s goal to replenish the Town’s diminishing tree canopy. This spring, the Town of Chelmsford is launching a pilot Front Yard Tree Planting Program for residential properties. Eligible homeowners can receive a tree planted at no cost. Town staff will handle the ordering, scheduling, and planting for you! You will commit to watering regularly and performing any needed maintenance.

Trees must be planted within 20 feet of the edge of the roadway or the back of the sidewalk, and only residential properties are eligible.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until March 13. Space is limited so apply early!

Visit the Front Yard Tree Program webpage for application forms and more information.

Washington's Birthday Trash Delay

There will be no solid waste or recycling collection on Monday, February 16 due to the Washington’s Birthday holiday. Collection for the rest of the week will be delayed by one day. Please note that no bulk items are collected during holiday weeks.

Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Bills

2026 motor vehicle excise tax bills are scheduled to be mailed to vehicle owners on February 20. The State-established tax rate of $25 per $1,000 of a vehicle’s value is uniform across the Commonwealth.

A vehicle’s value for excise tax purposes is not based on the purchase price, book value, or condition. Instead, the vehicle’s value is based on the manufacturers’ list price as determined by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). The value is set at 90% of the manufacturers’ list price in the year of its manufacture. In each of the following years, a vehicle’s value is depreciated at a schedule of 60%, 40%, 25%, and 10% each year thereafter. This means that when a vehicle’s age reaches five years, the value will not depreciate any further for excise tax calculation. 

Under State Law, the Town of Chelmsford must use the billing information from the RMV’s database as of January 1, 2026 . Motor vehicle excise tax bills issued Feb. 20 are due March 23, 2026.

If you have questions regarding tax payment, please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 978-250-5210. If you do not receive a motor vehicle excise tax bill by February 27 or if you sold or traded a vehicle and need information concerning abatements, please contact the Assessors’ Office at 978-250-5220.

Your Medicare Questions Answered with SHINE at the Chelmsford Senior Center

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Everyone…on or eligible for Medicare)

Whether you are turning 65, already enrolled in Medicare, or have questions about Medicare Savings Programs, MassHealth (Massachusetts Medicaid), or any other Medicare-related concerns, SHINE counselors can help!

You may have a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to make changes to your Medicare plan for a limited time. SEPs are limited to specific situations. If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan (HMO, HMO-POS, PPO) you can change to Original Medicare with a Medigap and a Drug Plan or change to a different Medicare Advantage Plan. Or, if your Part D plan was discontinued in January, you may have a SEP to change your plan. Timelines vary for these SEPs so be sure to reach out to SHINE to learn if you have these options. A SHINE counselor will review your coverage and will help determine if you are qualified to make a change at this time of year. 

Certified SHINE counselors provide free, unbiased, and confidential guidance on every aspect of health insurance for anyone who has Medicare or is eligible for it, helping you better understand your coverage and available options

To schedule a SHINE appointment at the Chelmsford Senior Center, call 978-251-0533.

Annual Town Census

The 2026 Annual Town Census was 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 can respond online if there are no changes to your census form! Your form has 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.

Nomination Papers Available Until February 12 for Elected Town Offices

Interested in Running for Town Office in 2026?

Nomination papers are available in the Town Clerk's Office until February 12th for these open seats:

Town-Wide Offices:

• One Select Board Member for three years
• One Select Board Member for one year
• Two School Committee Members for three years
• One Moderator 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 

Town Meeting Representative:

• Five open seats for three-year terms available in Precincts 1-11
• One unexpired one-year term in Precincts 1, 4, 5, 9, and 11
• Two unexpired one-year terms in Precincts 6 and 10
• One unexpired two-year term in Precincts 10 and 11

Additional seats may become available if vacancies arise.

The prospective candidate list will be updated online as potential candidates pull papers.

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

2026 Dog Licensing

Every 2025 dog license expired December 31. Licensing for 2026 began on December 1.

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 fees 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 information and links to online license renewal and mail application.

Upcoming Elections

Mark your calendars! There are three elections scheduled in 2026. 

Vote by Mail will be available for all elections, in addition to In Person Early Voting for state elections. Dates for In Person Early Voting will be announced once confirmed.

• Local Election - April 7
• State Primary - September 1
• State Election - November 3

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. This is a free event and you can drop-in anytime between 1:30 and 4:00 PM.

Examples of what can be fixed:

• Clothing/ textiles
• Device and computer hardware
• Jewelry
• Bicycles
• Household Appliances

Email Jianna Christopher or call 978-256-5521 x1107 with questions.

Volunteer Fair, March 28

The Library and Senior Center partner to host an annual Volunteer Fair. This is an opportunity for local non-profits, community groups, and town departments to connect with potential volunteers, network and engage with each other, and showcase their amazing organizations! This year's event will be held on Saturday, March 28 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM at the Senior Center.

If you've participated in the past, please review the information about your organization listed on our website to ensure that it is correct. Whether you're a prior participant or a new organization, please email assistant director Julie Iatron to RSVP. 

Please review and respond by Friday, February 27 at 5:00 PM.

Thrive Chelmsford, Caregiver Education Series - Building Brain-Healthy Habits

Join us on Thursday, February 19 at 2:00 PM via Zoom for this Alzheimer’s Association® education program that shares research-based tips to help protect your memory and thinking. Learn why brain health matters at every age, discover simple lifestyle habits that support long-term brain health, and create a personalized action plan you can start using right away. Please register in advance.

Speaker: Nicole McGurin from the MA/NH Alzheimer's Association

Joy of Less: New Declutter Workshop Begins in February

The Chelmsford Health Department is pleased to introduce The Joy of Less, a supportive decluttering workshop designed for residents living with moderate to severe clutter who are ready to make meaningful, manageable changes in their homes. This free program offers a respectful, judgment‑free space where participants can learn practical tools to reduce clutter and improve the way their home functions over time.

Beginning Tuesday, February 10, the workshop will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 PM in the Town Offices Room LL06, and will continue on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. Each session includes hands‑on strategies, guided discussions, and simple at‑home goals to help participants take steady, achievable steps toward creating clearer, more comfortable living spaces. Local donation and disposal resources will also be shared to make taking action between meetings easier.

The workshop is facilitated by Taryn Angel, MPH, and Darcy Beall, RN, of the Chelmsford Health Department. Together, they provide guidance that builds confidence, reduces overwhelm, and encourages shared support among participants.

Registration is required. Residents may sign up online or by calling the Health Department at (978) 250‑5241.

Small steps. Clear spaces. Shared support. Join us and discover the joy that comes from letting go and creating room for what matters most.

Protect Your Home and Health: Understanding Radon

As part of National Radon Action Month, the Health Department encourages all residents to test their homes this winter. A simple test today can help protect your family for years to come.

Radon is a naturally occurring, invisible, and odorless radioactive gas that can enter homes through cracks in foundations, basements, and utility openings. Radon exposure is a serious but preventable health risk. Long‑term exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year. Health officials in Massachusetts warn that radon levels often rise during the colder months because closed homes can trap the gas indoors for extended periods.

Radon forms naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. Once inside a home, it can accumulate to unsafe levels, yet it causes no immediate symptoms, making testing the only reliable way to know if a home is affected. The EPA recommends testing all homes, regardless of location, and encourages action if levels reach 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Test kits are affordable and widely available, and both short‑term and long‑term options provide useful information. Residents can also hire a certified radon professional for testing or mitigation.

If elevated radon levels are found, mitigation systems are highly effective in reducing indoor concentrations, creating a safer living environment for you and your family. According to the CDC, installing a radon reduction system can significantly lower exposure and help prevent radon‑associated lung cancer over time.

Health Department Community Drop‑In Hours

The Health Department invites residents to stop by during our upcoming Community Drop‑In Hours for free, one‑on‑one assistance. Join us on Wednesday, February 26, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM to get personalized support with paperwork, applications, and a wide range of local resources. Whether you have a quick question or need help navigating forms, our team is here to assist. Registration is encouraged but not required.

This drop‑in session is designed to make it easier for community members to access services and get connected with programs that can offer meaningful support. Staff will be available to help complete forms, answer questions, and guide residents through various application processes.

Services available include:

• Assistance completing forms and applications
• Support with permit applications and related paperwork
• Help applying for:
• Housing
• SNAP
• MassHealth
• Fuel and energy assistance
• Information on substance use and mental health resources
• And much more!

Residents are welcome to attend whether they are seeking help for the first time or simply need guidance on a single step in a larger process. The goal is to remove barriers, reduce stress, and help everyone access the services they need.

For questions or to register, call the Health Department at (978) 250‑5241. We’re here to help. Stop in, connect, and let us support you.