Town Manager's Newsletter

Town of Chelmsford

May 2026

• May 1 Property Tax Bills Due
• May 2 Textile Recycling and Paper Shredding at Senior Ctr., SpringFest at MacKay, E-Waste & Junk Recycling
• May 9 Paper Shredding at DPW
• May 12 Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony
• May 15 Chad Moores at CCA
• May 16 Junk in the Trunk
• May 16 Yard Waste Pickup

• May 18-29 DPW Food Drive
• May 20 Job Fair
• May 21 Fire Stations Groundbreaking
• May 21 Thrive! Memory Cafe
• May 23 Bachelor + Bachelorette
• May 25 Memorial Day (Trash Delay, Town Offices Closed)
• May 28 Teddy Bear Picnic
• May 30 Janelle’s Dirty Basement Comedy Show
• June 6 Market on the Common

This will be my last submission to the Town Manager’s newsletter. Thank you to the Chelmsford community for your support over the past 19½ years. I’ve been grateful to work in such an outstanding community alongside talented co-workers, dedicated volunteers, and supportive residents. I have always sought to serve the best interests of the Town of Chelmsford.

When I arrived in November 2006, just after the Town’s 350th Anniversary, I was reminded that we each play a small part in Chelmsford’s long history. Throughout my time here, I’ve tried to help leave the community stronger for those who will come after us. I’m proud of what we accomplished together. Chelmsford is a wonderful community with a promising future—thank you for allowing me to be part of it.

Fire Stations Construction Update

The Town of Chelmsford has awarded a contract to Castagna Construction Corporation for the construction of the replacement West and South Fire Stations. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, May 21 at 11:00 AM at the West Fire Station, 260 Old Westford Road. Construction is scheduled to be completed by Fall 2027. 

Proposed Parker Middle School Project Update

The Chelmsford School Committee and the Parker School Building Committee have taken the necessary actions for the submittal of the Preferred Schematic Report to the Massachusetts School Building Authority for the construction of a new Grades 4 - 6 Parker Middle School.

The new school would be located on the current Parker site and would house 1,390 students. The inclusion of the 4th grade into the middle school building will free up classroom space in the Town’s overcrowded four elementary schools.

The estimated project cost for the 239,000 square-foot facility is $272.6M. The Town is expected to be eligible for State reimbursement of 52% of the project eligible costs. Further design development and community input will occur later this calendar year.

A town-wide ballot vote to approve the project is scheduled to occur by next April. The projected project completion/move-in date is December 2030. 

Chelmsford’s First Civics Academy: A Strong Foundation for Civic Engagement

Earlier this year, Chelmsford successfully launched its first Civics Academy, bringing 16 residents together for an eight‑week program focused on how local government works and how residents can get involved. Participants heard directly from Town leaders, toured facilities, and gained a behind‑the‑scenes look at the services and decisions that shape daily life in Chelmsford.

The response was overwhelmingly positive. Participants reported a clearer understanding of Town operations, a greater appreciation for the work of municipal staff, and increased trust in local government. Attendance remained strong throughout the program, and the Academy is already producing tangible results. Several participants have since pursued or expressed interest in Town Meeting, boards, and committees. Three even ran in the April 2026 local election, winning their respective seats (Town Meeting and the Chelmsford Housing Authority).

The Civics Academy proved to be a meaningful investment in transparency, trust, and community engagement. Plans are already underway to build on this success and offer the Civics Academy again next year. 

Vacancy on the Chelmsford Housing Authority Board

In accordance with the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 121B, Section 5, and Chapter 41, Section 11, the Select Board and the Chelmsford Housing Authority Board will hold a joint meeting on Monday, May 18, 2026 at 6:00 PM in Room 204 of the Chelmsford Town Offices, 50 Billerica Road, Chelmsford, Massachusetts to fill the Member vacancy on the Chelmsford Housing Authority Board. The person so appointed shall serve as a Member of the Chelmsford Housing Board until the April 6, 2027 Annual Town Election. 

Anyone who is interested in being appointed to fill said vacancy should send a written letter of interest or a committee application to the Select Board or appear at the May 18 joint meeting.

Spring Annual Town Meeting Summary

The Town Meeting Representatives completed consideration of the 36 Article 2026 Spring Annual Town Meeting Warrant in two sessions during the last week of April. The Representatives approved the Town’s $176.4M Fiscal Year 2027 operating budget, $6.4M Capital Improvement Plan, and adopted a new lighting bylaw. A copy of the Town Meeting Warrant, budget, and the Town Meeting Representatives votes on the Warrant Articles is available on the Town’s website. 

Memorial Day Observance 2026

Chelmsford will observe Memorial Day on Monday, May 25 in North Chelmsford. The American Legion Post 313 will be the host Veterans organization this year.

The parade route will start promptly at 10:00 AM from American Legion Post 313 located at 90 Groton Rd., North Chelmsford. We will proceed down Groton Rd. to Vinal Square. If you would like to be in the parade, please assemble by 9:30 AM at the Post 313 parking lot. Participants in the parade can be dropped off at the Post 313 parking lot, and there is plenty of parking across the street at the Senior Center.

Everyone is welcome! There will be a program immediately following the parade at Vinal Square. After the program everyone is invited to North Town Hall (across the street) for ice cream & cake!

Please note flags will be placed on Veterans graves at Chelmsford's six public cemeteries prior to Memorial Day. We will start Saturday, May 16 on Armed Forces Day with our Scout volunteers at the Pine Ridge cemetery. Please be patient as flag placement is done by volunteers and we have approximately 2,000 marked Veteran graves in Chelmsford.

If you have any questions about the parade or placement of graveside flags, please call the Veterans office at 978-250-5238.  

Expanded Accessible Community Gardens at Sunny Meadow Farm

The Chelmsford Community Gardens recently added more accessible plots to the gardens at Sunny Meadow Farm on Robin Hill Road. Each plot is approximately 4 feet by 8 feet. There are 12 plots in an old farm trough that can be worked while standing. Thirteen new raised bed plots are suitable for anyone with limited mobility.

The rental fee is $10 per season. Water and basic gardening tools are available on site.

There are a limited number of plots remaining for the 2026 season. To apply, please click the button below. If you have any questions or need more information, please email sunnymeadow01824@gmail.com.

State Grant Brings New HVAC and Facilities Programs to Nashoba Tech

Nashoba Valley Technical High School has exciting news to share following a major state investment in career technical education. The school has been awarded a $3.25 million grant through the FY2026 Career Technical Education Expansion Grant Program, presented by Governor Maura Healey at a statewide event held at Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School.

The funding will support renovations and expanded instructional space at Nashoba Tech to establish two new Chapter 74 programs, HVAC and Facilities Maintenance Management. These programs will serve both high school students and adult learners through the Career Training Institute, helping participants gain industry focused skills and credentials in high demand fields.

This grant is part of a multi-year initiative to expand access to career technical education and strengthen the workforce pipeline across Massachusetts. Learn more by reading the Governor’s press release.

Market on the Common Outdoor Season June 6 - October 10

The Market on the Common returns for its outdoor season on Saturdays, June 6 through October 10, featuring artisans, crafters, food vendors, and more.

New vendors are welcome to apply, and questions may be directed to market@chelmsfordma.gov.

For timely updates, follow Chelmsford Market on the Common on Facebook. For more information, visit the event page of the Town Website.

LRTA Bus Routes Survey

How should LRTA make our bus routes better? We're changing LRTA routes in the Lowell area and we want your input! Take a short survey.

Join a pop-up event. Kennedy Center at Lowell Station April 8, 6:00 - 8:00 AM or 3:00 - 5:00 PM.

This effort is part of LRTA's Fixed-Route Service Analysis. Visit the project webpage for more information.

NMCOG Transportation Improvement Plan and Greater Lowell Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan

The Northern Middlesex Council of Governments has released two plans for public comment.

The Northern Middlesex Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) is a federally required, short-term plan that identifies which transportation projects—like roads, transit, bike, and pedestrian improvements—will receive funding and when they are expected to be implemented in a region. Projects are "programmed" or scheduled according to their readiness to proceed, as well as by the degree to which they advance regional goals and priorities.

The Greater Lowell Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan (GLBPP) is a collaborative effort to improve walking and biking infrastructure across our region. The plan provides a vision for a unified, regional bicycle priority network and nine discrete local pedestrian networks, which NMCOG will work to advance over the coming decade through support to local communities, funding for design and micromobility improvements, and advocacy for improvements to local, state, and federal policy. 

Documents are provided at the NMCOG website.

The public is invited to comment on these items by email to publiccomments@nmcog.org or by mail to NMCOG, 672 Suffolk Street, Suite 100, Lowell, MA 01854 from April 23 through May 14. Comments on the GLBPP will also be accepted through our online form at https://engage.nmcog.org/GLBPP.

Two virtual publics hearing will be held as part of the public comment period; all are welcome to attend: 

Date: Wednesday, May 6

Time: 12:00 to 1:00 PM

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83275139737

Date: Thursday, May 7

Time: 7:00 to 8:00 PM

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84623601945

The Planning Board will next meet on May 13 in Room 204 of Town Offices at 7:00 PM. The Board will open a public hearing for a 2-lot private way definitive subdivision, to be constructed on a paper street known as Chestnut Hill Lane and continue its discussion related to potential zoning articles for Fall Town Meeting. The Planning Board will also meet on May 27.

The Zoning Board will meet on May 7.

The Conservation Commission will next meet on May May 12 and May 26.

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

Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony May 12

The Chelmsford Police Department invites community members to attend a Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony in observance of National Police Week. The ceremony will take place on Tuesday, May 12 at 11:00 AM at Forefathers Cemetery.

National Police Week was established in 1962, when President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as

National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers.

The ceremony will include a remembrance of Chelmsford Constable Donald Adams, who was killed in the line of duty in 1927 while attempting to arrest an armed suspect. A wreath will be laid at his gravesite in honor of his service and the service of all officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Additional wreaths will also be placed at Pine Ridge and Fairview cemeteries in remembrance of officers who died while on duty due to medical emergencies.

Police Chief Colin Spence and the Chelmsford Police Department welcome the public to attend and join in remembering those who served their community.

Police Meritorious Service Awards

Officer Gillis, Officer C. Robinson and Det. Ubele stand with their Meritorious Service Awards for Outstanding Performance of Duty

Each year, the Chelmsford Police Department and the Chelmsford Police Foundation recognize officers whose actions reflect exceptional professionalism, dedication, and service to the community.

At this year’s 27th Annual Police Awards Ceremony, Meritorious Service Awards were presented to Officer Cory D’Entremont, School Resource Officers Dan Sullivan, Ashley Rokas, and David Linstad, Officer Christopher Robinson, Officer Robert Riordan, Lieutenant Steve Fredericks, K9 Officer David Leo, Sergeant Matthew Fernald, Officer Aidan Gillis, Officer Landon Johnson, Officer Riley O’Keefe, Officer Andrew Robinson, Detective Brian Ubele, Detective Derek Hill, and Detective Jeffrey Blodgett. The awards recognize lifesaving actions, outstanding performance of duty, investigative excellence, community engagement, proactive policing, and long-standing service to victims and residents.

For more details on the brave and dedicated actions that earned these officers their awards, visit the Chelmsford Police Department website to view a full press release.

DPW Food Drive

The Department of Public Works is excited to host a non‑perishable food drive this May in celebration of National Public Works Week, benefiting the Chelmsford Food Pantry. A similar drive held two years ago was an incredible success, with the community filling three DPW dump trucks with donated food.

This year, we are hoping you will join us once again to support our neighbors in need. This effort is made possible in large part through the generous support of Demoulas Market Basket. Your participation will make a meaningful difference for local families, and every donation helps strengthen our community!

Main Collection Day at Market Basket

Friday, May 29, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM at Demoulas Market Basket, 288 Chelmsford St.

Additional Drop-Off Option at DPW

Drop-offs will also be accepted at the DPW, 9 Alpha Rd., May 18 – May 29 at the following times:

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Friday 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM

We look forward to working with you to support the Chelmsford Food Pantry. Thank you for your generosity and support!

Tree Committee’s Seedling Giveaway: Restoring A Threatened Canopy

Chelmsford’s tree canopy is diminishing at an estimated rate of 1–2% per year largely due to continued development that requires tree removal, coupled with limited space for large-canopy tree replacement. This loss is compounded by aging tree stock, storm damage, pests or disease, and choking by invasives which together outpace current tree planting and natural regeneration efforts.

The Tree Committee, in collaboration with the DPW and the Select Board’s strategic plan of replenishing the threatened canopy, has launched various tree replacement programs in recent years. Over 120 trees were planted in 2025. This spring, the Tree Committee and DPW are planting approximately 100 trees throughout the Town. More updates on these installations will follow in the June Town Manager’s Newsletter.

In addition to the Town planting trees, the Tree Committee distributed 140 native tree seedlings in April to residents that participated in Household Hazardous Waste Day at the DPW. Northern Red Oak, RedBud, and Gray Dogwood were the species available to residents. Our Library also distributed seedlings on Arbor day, showing how the town is working together on tree canopy. These were successful events that align with the Town’s strategic goal of replenishing a diminishing canopy while also providing a free opportunity for residents to plant a tree within their property. 

Pictured: John Thompson of the Chelmsford Tree Committee

Curbside Yard Waste Pickup May 16

The first curbside yard waste pickup of the season will be held on Saturday, May 16.

Materials must be curbside by 6:30 AM (or the night before).

To ensure timely service, please follow these guidelines:

Leaves & Grass Clippings:

• Place in paper bags or barrels only
• No rocks, dirt, sand, or mulch
• Mulching clippings into your lawn is encouraged as a natural fertilizer

Brush:

• Maximum size: 3 inches in diameter, 6 feet long
• Piles may not exceed 4’ x 6’
• Limit of three piles per property
• Brush must be tied with rope or twine

Additional Information:

• Real Christmas trees are accepted only during brush pickup days (all decorations removed)
• Service is not available to multi‑family buildings with four or more units, apartments, or condos
• Community Tree accepts brush year‑round for a fee: 978‑256‑0341

Paper Shredding at DPW May 9

Saturday, May 9, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

DPW, 9 Alpha Road

Safely dispose of sensitive documents at Chelmsford’s annual Shred Day. Materials will be securely shredded on site and 100% recycled after the event. Shredded paper is not accepted in the curbside recycling program, but this event provides a safe and responsible way to recycle it.

Accepted materials include mail (no glossy paper), memo paper, newspapers, notebook paper, personal letters, printer paper, and receipts.

Important Guidelines:

• Limit of one trunk load per vehicle
• Staff will remove materials from vehicles
• Documents will be shredded on site and stored in a locked, secured truck

Center & McCarthy PTOs E-Waste & Junk Recycle Day

Saturday, May 2, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Central Administration Office, 230 North Road

Center Elementary School and McCarthy Middle School PTOs are partnering to help you get rid of junk items that aren't easily disposed of in the trash such as appliances, furniture, lawn equipment, grills (no propane!), TVs, etc.

This is a great way to support our schools. Just drive through, donate a small fee, and leave your junk!

Visit the event page for more information.

Town Wide Cleanup: A Great Success

Thank you to everyone who participated in Chelmsford’s Annual Town Wide Cleanup. Fifty-eight individuals and groups picked up cleanup supplies. Bags, gloves, and safety shirts were generously donated by Chelmsford Storage Solutions.

Three hundred and ninety-six yellow bags of litter were collected. Your efforts made a visible difference. Thank you for helping keep Chelmsford clean and green!

Junk in the Trunk

Saturday, May 16, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Chelmsford High School Rear Parking Lot, Entrance on the Harrington Street side

Junk in the Trunk is a FREE community gifting event hosted by the Chelmsford Recycling Committee and the Chelmsford Sustainability Office. The event promotes reuse and waste reduction while bringing neighbors together. Residents are invited to bring reusable items to give away and browse for items others no longer need. There is no cost to participate as a giver or a shopper.

Please note that this is not a drop‑off event. Participants must remain on site. New England Clothes Recycling will accept donations of leftover items after the event. The event area will be organized into separate spaces for givers and shoppers.

Visit the event page for more information.

Memorial Day Trash Delay

There will be no solid waste or recycling collection on Monday, May 25 due to the Memorial Day 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.