Town Manager's Newsletter

Town of Chelmsford

November 2026

• Nov. 1 Nashoba Tech Open House
• Nov. 3 State General Election, Story Walk Grand Reopening
• Nov. 4 & 7 Battery & Bulb Shed
• Nov. 6 Artists' Gala
• Nov. 7 Pumpkin Smash
• Nov. 9 Veterans Coffee,Tax Classification Hearing
• Nov. 10 Thrive Music Cafe
• Nov. 11 Veterans Day (Trash Delay, Town Offices Closed), Veterans Day Ceremony
• Nov. 12 Popular Music and Veterans
• Nov. 14 The Nightflies Concert, Fix It Clinic

• Nov. 16-20 Yard Waste Pickup
• Nov. 18 Holiday Grief Workshop
• Nov. 19 Veterans Breakfast
• Nov. 20 Gospel Connection
• Nov. 21 Household Hazardous Waste Day
• Nov. 26 Thanksgiving Day (Trash Delay, Town Offices Closed)
• Nov. 27 Town Offices Closed
• Nov. 30-Dec. 4 Yard Waste Pickup
• Dec. 1 Civics Academy Applications Open
• Dec. 5 & 12 Toys for Tots Fill-a-Cruiser

By November, the change of seasons is hard to miss. Daylight saving time comes to an end, the days grow noticeably shorter, and the last stretch of fall begins to give way to winter. It is also a natural time to take stock of where we have been and what lies ahead, both as a community and in Town government.

We recently completed a successful Fall Town Meeting, with action on a wide range of financial, capital, environmental, and land-use matters. Town Meeting supported our supplemental capital plan, approved a ban on black plastic takeout food containers, and considered several zoning proposals. Some zoning changes moved forward while others did not, which is part of the process. These discussions give the community an opportunity to weigh important questions about Chelmsford’s future, and I appreciate everyone who participated.

None of this work happens without our employees. I continue to be impressed by the dedication I see across Town government, particularly during what has been an exceptionally busy fall. I want to give a special thank you to the Town Clerk’s Office, who have been working through the demands of both Fall Town Meeting and the November election. I also want to recognize Chelmsford Telemedia for the work that goes into broadcasting these important community events, much of it before and after the cameras are on, as well as our Town IT staff for helping ensure a smooth Town Meeting. All of these efforts require considerable preparation and attention to detail, much of which happens behind the scenes, and I am grateful for everyone’s hard work.

With Town Meeting behind us, our attention has shifted almost immediately to the FY2028 budget. Departmental operating and capital requests were due at the end of October, and we begin the process facing a projected deficit of approximately $3.8 million. That means the months ahead will require some difficult decisions about spending, services, revenues, and priorities. It will undoubtedly be a challenging budget season, but our goal will be to approach those decisions thoughtfully and transparently while continuing to provide the services our residents depend upon.

At the same time, the Select Board and I recently finalized our goals for the remainder of FY2027 and into FY2028. Those goals are organized around several broader priorities: High Performing Government; Infrastructure & Capital Investment; Economic Vitality & Managed Growth; Open Space, Recreation & Environmental Stewardship; and Community Engagement & Quality of Life. The intent is to keep our attention not only on the immediate issues in front of us, but also on the longer-term work necessary to keep Chelmsford a strong and well-managed community.

Finally, Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. In my family, it brings multiple generations together around the same table and is the source of some of our strongest family traditions. For me, it is a chance to slow down a little, enjoy time with family, enjoy a special meal and reflect on the many things for which I am grateful.

This year, that includes the opportunity to serve Chelmsford. I am thankful for the warm welcome I have received and for the residents, employees, volunteers, and elected and appointed officials who contribute so much to this community. I hope everyone has an enjoyable Thanksgiving and an opportunity to spend some time with the people and traditions that mean the most to you.

Alex Magee

Town Manager

Ever Wonder How Chelmsford Really Works? 

Ever wonder how a road gets selected for paving, how the Town builds its budget, or why something works the way it does? The Chelmsford Civics Academy is returning with behind-the-scenes tours, conversations with Town officials, and a firsthand look at how local decisions are made.

Applications will open on December 1 and will be found on the Civics Academy page of the Town’s website. But before they do, please tell us what you’ve always wondered about how the Town of Chelmsford works.

Take the quick survey.

The Civics Academy is a free program open to Chelmsford residents aged 16 and older.

The Select Board has scheduled the Fiscal Year 2027 Tax Classification public hearing for Monday, November 9 at 6:00 PM in Room 204 at the Chelmsford Town Offices. Tax Classification is the process that allows the Select Board to determine how property taxes will be shifted between residential, commercial, industrial, and personal property classes. It does not increase or decrease the total property tax levy.

The Board of Assessors will provide context on property tax values and present the estimated property tax impact under various scenarios. After a period of public comment, the Select Board will vote to determine the allocation of the property tax burden across property classes.  

Nashoba Valley Technical High School Open House

Students, families, and community members are invited to attend the Nashoba Valley Technical High School Open House on Sunday, November 1 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Explore the school’s 18 technical education programs, tour classrooms and labs, meet teachers and staff, and learn about academic programs, athletics, clubs, and student opportunities.

Admissions information and application assistance will also be available. This is a great opportunity for prospective students to discover the many educational and career pathways offered at Nashoba Tech.

Chelmsford Police & Fire Collecting Toys for Tots

Help fill cruisers and collection bins with holiday cheer! The Chelmsford Police and Fire Departments are collecting new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots to help brighten the season for local children and families in need.

This year, the Police Department is hosting two Fill-a-Cruiser events, giving residents two opportunities to stop by, say hello, and donate:

• December 5, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM at Walmart in Chelmsford.
• December 12, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Lowell Five Bank on Fletcher Street.

The Fire Department will also have Toys for Tots collection bins beginning Monday, November 2 in the lobby of Fire Headquarters and on the first floor of Town Offices at 50 Billerica Road. Donations may be dropped off through December 14.

Whether you bring one toy or a bagful, your generosity helps make the holidays brighter. Thank you for supporting this community tradition!

Thank You to Amrize for Volunteering at Friendship Park 

The Town and DPW are fortunate to have the support of local organizations and businesses that volunteer their time to assist with community improvement projects. Amrize, a paving and aggregate company with a facility in Chelmsford, has generously volunteered each year to help enhance a local playground.

In early October, Amrize employees joined DPW staff at Friendship Park to install about 50 cubic yards of certified playground wood chips. Volunteer efforts like these help maintain and improve our public spaces for residents to enjoy.

The DPW greatly appreciates Amrize's continued commitment to the community and extends its sincere thanks for this year's assistance at Friendship Park.

Pictured: DPW Director Christine Clancy, DPW Playgrounds Coordinator DJ Ruggiero, and Amrize employee volunteers.

Upcoming Meetings of Planning Board, ZBA, and Conservation Commission

The Planning Board will meet on November 18 in Room 204 of Town Offices at 6:30 PM. The Board will hear a continued public hearing for a 2-lot private way definitive subdivision, to be constructed on a paper street known as Chestnut Hill Lane, continued public hearings for 271-279 Chelmsford Street for the demolition of the existing house and construction of a new 8,500 sq. ft multi-tenanted commercial building, 24 Maple Street for the demolition of the existing structure and construction of a new 12,500 sq. ft. two-story building with associated site improvements, and a new hearing for tree removals along scenic roadways.

The Zoning Board of Appeals will be meeting on November 5 at 7:00 PM in room 204, Pursuant to the Order of Remand issued by the Housing Appeals Committee on September 16, 2026, in the matter of Chelmsford ZBA and 243 Riverneck, LLC, Case No. 2025-05, to consider the May 19, 2025 comprehensive permit application of 243 Riverneck, LLC and its Manager, Ashok Patel. This Comprehensive Permit proposal, pursuant to M.G.L. Ch. 40B, is for property located at 243 Riverneck Road. The proposal consists of 7 single-family dwellings for sale and 16 townhouses for rent. Of the total of 23 housing units, 6 units will be designated as affordable housing consisting of 2 single-family and 4 townhouses.

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

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

Conservation Corner

Hey Chelmsford, Let’s Make National Parks!

Great news! There are ways that everyone can support habitat and enhance ecological function around us. It's incredibly easy to do. Visit the Homegrown National Park website to find a manageable, step-by-step guide of how to incorporate native plants for your backyard or deck that will produce big impacts to support wildlife such as birds and insects. According to Homegrown National Park, “There is no experience needed”

Why does this matter? According to Doug Tallamy, a Co-Founder of HGNP: “These systems support us too. Healthy ecosystems provide essential benefits like clean air and water, pollination, natural pest control, and carbon storage.”

What can you do?

Explore the website, create an account, plant some seeds or plants, and then add your property to the 10 yards already listed on the Homegrown National Park Biodiversity Map.

Imagine watching the map of Chelmsford begin to light up as more residents create small pockets of habitat. Each property becomes a connecting dot — a small contribution that, together with others, can create a much larger network of biodiversity.

Access Improvements to Harrington Fields 

Pictured: Access point to Harrington Fields before and after improvements, including an ADA accessible paved path.

As part of a capital project to improve accessibility at several open spaces throughout town, the DPW designed and installed a new ADA-accessible pathway to the Harrington School Fields. Prior to this improvement, the route used by hundreds of soccer players and their families each season required navigating a steep, overgrown gravel path that did not meet ADA accessibility standards.

The new paved pathway connects the Harrington School parking lot directly to the fields, providing a safe and accessible route for all users. In addition to meeting ADA requirements, the project has significantly improved the appearance of the entrance area, which had previously been characterized by overgrown vegetation, exposed rocks, and eroded soil.

The project cost approximately $40,000 to complete. By performing the design work in-house and utilizing DPW staff and stockpiled materials for portions of the installation, the Town realized an estimated savings of $25,000 to $50,000. The pathway was completed during the fall soccer season and is already benefiting field users.

The disturbed areas along the pathway have been loamed and seeded. Looking ahead, the Tree Committee and DPW see this location as an opportunity for future landscaping improvements, including the installation of native shrubs and trees to further enhance the entrance to the fields.

New Accessible We-Go-Round at Varney Playground

Pictured: Rare Road Foundation pictured with Select Board members and Town Staff at the October 21 ribbon cutting ceremony (above) for the new accessible We-Go-Round (below).

On October 21, the DPW hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to recognize the recent installation of a new playground structure at Varney Playground.

The We-Go-Round is an innovative, inclusive merry-go-round that promotes accessible and social play. Unlike traditional playground spinners, the We-Go-Round is designed to accommodate children using mobility devices while also providing space for other users to join in the fun. Children can work together to spin the structure, encouraging cooperation, interaction, and inclusive play. The flush entry structure along with rubber poured-in-place surfacing provides ADA access for use of the new structure.

The project was funded through Community Preservation Funds approved at Spring 2026 Town Meeting and through a generous donation from the Rare Road Foundation. The ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by members of the Rare Road Foundation, DPW, Town Offices staff, Select Board members, and other residents in the community.  

Holiday Trash Delays

There will be no solid waste or recycling collection on Wednesday, November 11 and Thursday, November 26 due to the Veterans Day and Thanksgiving 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.

November Recycling and Solid Waste Events

November is a busy month for recycling and solid waste programs in Chelmsford. Mark your calendar for Household Hazardous Waste Day, the final Battery and Bulb Shed collections of the season, yard waste pickup, and the annual Pumpkin Smash.

Household Hazardous Waste Day

Saturday, November 21, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM

Department of Public Works, 9 Alpha Road

Chelmsford residents can safely dispose of household hazardous materials during the Town's fall collection event. Proof of residency is required, and disposal is limited to one passenger vehicle load per household.

Accepted materials include automotive fluids, household cleaners, driveway sealers and adhesives, pesticides, fertilizers, hobby and photography chemicals, oil-based paints, paint thinners, stains, varnishes, oven cleaners, and pool chemicals.

Accepted materials include:

• Automotive fluids
• Household cleaners
• Driveway sealers and adhesives
• Pesticides and fertilizers
• Hobby and photography chemicals
• Oil-based paints
• Paint thinner and solvents
• Stains and varnishes
• Oven cleaners
• Pool chemicals

Please note: Sharps and latex paint will not be accepted at this event.

The Town reserves the right to limit participation to the first 350 vehicles and may turn away vehicles that arrive with unreasonable quantities of material or commercial-scale loads in order to ensure safe and equitable service for all residents.

Battery and Bulb Shed: Final Collections of the Season

Wednesday, November 4, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM

Saturday, November 7, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM

Battery and Bulb Shed behind Town Offices, 50 Billerica Road

These are the final Battery & Bulb Shed collection dates of the season. Residents may drop off button batteries, fluorescent and neon bulbs, mercury-containing thermostats and thermometers, electrical switches, and other accepted items.

Rechargeable batteries, including lithium-ion batteries, should never be placed in household trash due to fire risks and may be brought to the Battery & Bulb Shed during collection hours.

November/December Yard Waste Collection

Yard waste will be collected during the weeks of:

• November 16 - November 20
• November 30 - December 4

Collection occurs on your regular trash and recycling day during these designated weeks.

Leaves and grass must be placed in paper yard waste bags or barrels. Brush must be tied with rope or twine in piles no larger than 4 feet by 6 feet, with a maximum of three piles per household. Branches may not exceed 3 inches in diameter or 6 feet in length.

Please do not include rocks, soil, sand, or mulch.

Pumpkin Smash

Saturday, November 7, 1:00-2:00 PM

Behind Town Offices, 50 Billerica Road

Don't toss your pumpkins in the trash. Smash them instead!

Residents are invited to bring their leftover Halloween pumpkins to this fun, family-friendly event. Pumpkins collected at the event will be composted rather than sent to disposal, helping reduce waste while creating a valuable soil amendment.

To ensure pumpkins can be composted, please remove candles, decorations, plastic bags, stickers, paint, glitter, and any other non-organic materials before bringing them to the event.

Zero Waste Day was a Great Success! 

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this year's Zero Waste Day such a success!

We welcomed 560 vehicles, setting a new participation record and surpassing all previous years:

• 2022: 374 vehicles
• 2023: 466 vehicles
• 2024: 512 vehicles
• 2025: 397 vehicles
• 2026: 560 vehicles

The community showed up in a big way. Household Goods of Acton filled an entire truck just before closing, CMRK collected a full load of materials, Gate City took away numerous bicycles, the Lions Club received over 100 eyeglass donations, UTEC collected 60 mattresses/boxsprings, and the DPW helped remove a full box truck of tires. We also kept a large quantity of batteries, fluorescent bulbs, confidential documents, mattresses, and tires out of the waste stream while collecting donations for the local food pantry.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered, organized, lifted, sorted, directed traffic, and contributed to another outstanding event.

How to Dispose of Holiday String Lights

It’s important to discard your non-working holiday lights in an environmentally friendly way. They might be repairable by replacing a blown fuse. If the lights are not working, then they should not be thrown in the trash or recycling bin. 

Collection boxes are in place at the Senior Center, Adams Library, Town Offices near the rear entrance, and DPW for residents to drop-off their unusable string lights until January 31. 

If the lights are working, please donate them. Simple Recycling will take functional string lights as will other household donation sites. 

If you have any questions, please contact Sustainability Manager Chris Haley at 978-250-5023 or chaley@chelmsfordma.gov.

Chelmsford Approves Black Plastic Ban

At the October 2026 Fall Town Meeting, voters approved Warrant Article 17, prohibiting the use of non-recyclable black plastic food service containers in Chelmsford.

Black plastic has historically been difficult for optical sorting equipment at recycling facilities and being at the end of the recycle life; the material is considered contamination. The new bylaw is intended to encourage the use of more recyclable and environmentally friendly packaging options.

The effort was supported by the Chelmsford Recycling Committee and students from the Chelmsford High School Eco Club, who surveyed local restaurants and spoke in favor of the article at Town Meeting. 

The ban on non-recyclable black plastic food containers passed 131-2-0 and will go into effect on January 1, 2028.

Polls will be open on election day November 3 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM at your polling location. Find your polling location.

More information can be found on the Town Clerk’s elections webpage or the State elections webpage. 

This November, the Chelmsford Senior Center celebrates our veterans with opportunities to gather, connect, and enjoy good company. Join us for a warm welcome, friendly faces, and a heartfelt thank-you for your service!

Veterans Coffee & Pastry

Monday, November 9, 9:00-11:00 AM, Friends Café

In honor of our Veterans this month, free coffee and pastry, in the Friends Café from 9:00-11:00 AM. Drop by!

Popular Music and Veterans

November 12, 1:00 PM, hall

An exploration through songs of some of the experiences and sacrifices of veterans throughout American history. The program consists of songs, history, and an accompanying slide show pertaining to some of the experiences of veterans of World War I, World War II, the Civil War and other conflicts alongside the history of popular music in America. Call 978-251-0533 or email ndussault@chelmsfordma.gov to register.

November Veterans Breakfast

Thursday, November 19, 8:30 AM coffee, breakfast 9:00 AM, hall

Monthly breakfast, free for Veterans of all ages. Call 978-251-0533 to register. December Veterans Breakfast will be on December 17.

Thrive Music Cafe, Adult Singalong with Matt York

Tuesday, November 10 at 11:00 AM at the Library

Longtime New England musician Matt York will perform a collection of memorable songs from the 50's, 60's and 70's. Attendees are encouraged to sing along during the concert.

Thrive! is a Chelmsford Public Library initiative featuring programming designed specifically for members of our community who are living with memory loss as well as for their family members, loved ones, and professional care team members. Sign up now!

Fix It Clinic

Saturday, November 14 at 1:30 PM at the Library

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 3:30 PM. Click to get more details and register!

Managing Grief at the Holidays

Wednesday, November 18 at 6:00 PM at the Library

The holiday season can amplify feelings of loss and create unique challenges for those who are grieving. This compassionate, interactive workshop provides practical strategies and emotional support for navigating this challenging time. Click to get more details and sign up.

World Diabetes Month: Small Steps, Big Impact

This November, join us in recognizing World Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the most common chronic health conditions affecting millions of people worldwide.

The good news? Even small changes can make a big difference. Choosing nutritious foods, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping up with regular checkups can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of serious complications.

This month, challenge yourself to take one healthy step each day, whether it's taking a walk, swapping a sugary drink for water, adding more fruits and vegetables to your meals, or scheduling a health screening. If you live with diabetes, remember that every healthy choice supports your well-being.

Encourage friends, family, and coworkers to join you. Together, we can build healthier communities, increase awareness, and support those affected by diabetes.

Know your risk. Take action. Make a difference. Visit the American Diabetes Association website to learn more.

Thanksgiving Food Safety: Keep the Holiday Happy and Healthy

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with family and friends, sharing traditions, and enjoying a delicious meal. While preparing your holiday feast, food safety is an important ingredient in preventing foodborne illness.

Start by washing your hands before and during food preparation. Keep raw turkey separate from other foods to avoid cross-contamination and use a food thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of serving and store them in shallow containers so they cool quickly.

When reheating leftovers, make sure they reach 165°F before eating. If you are thawing a frozen turkey, do so safely in the refrigerator, in cold water changed every 30 minutes, or in the microwave.

Following these simple food safety steps can help protect your family and guests from foodborne illness so everyone leaves with happy memories, not an upset stomach.

Prepare for Respiratory Illness Season

As we enter respiratory illness season, cases of COVID-19, influenza (flu), and other respiratory viruses often increase. Taking steps to protect yourself and your family can help reduce the spread of illness and keep our community healthy. Remember to stay up to date on recommended vaccinations, wash your hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home when you are sick.

Chelmsford residents can also take advantage of free at-home COVID-19 and flu combination test kits, available through the Health Department. These convenient tests can help you quickly identify whether symptoms may be caused by COVID-19 or influenza, allowing you to make informed decisions about seeking medical care and limiting exposure to others.

Please note: Test kits are available while supplies last, with a limit of two boxes per family. Stay informed, stay prepared, and help keep our community healthy this season.

Supporting Mental Health During Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is often described as a joyful time of gratitude and togetherness, but for many people, the holiday can also bring stress, loneliness, grief, or difficult emotions. It is important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health during the holiday season.

Take time to check in with yourself and others. A simple phone call, text message, or invitation can make a meaningful difference for someone who may be feeling isolated. Be mindful of expectations and give yourself permission to take breaks, set boundaries, and practice self-care when needed.

Focus on connection rather than perfection. Sharing a meal, expressing gratitude, and spending quality time with loved ones can help strengthen relationships and improve well-being.

Looking for a way to support others this season? Consider volunteering at a local food pantry, meal program, or community Thanksgiving event. Donating nonperishable food items, grocery gift cards, or winter clothing to local organizations can also help neighbors in need feel supported and connected during the holidays. 

Available Town Jobs

The Town of Chelmsford is hiring for the following positions. Please view the full job postings online. Applicants must submit a job application, resume, and cover letter by email to people@chelmsfordma.gov.

Custodial Assistant Substitute / Public Library

The Chelmsford Public Library is looking to hire a Custodial Assistant Substitute. This is a non-benefitted per diem position and the salary is $24.00/hour. The Custodial Assistant Substitute duties include routine cleaning, general building security, and more. 

Veterans Services Assistant (Part-Time) / Veterans Services Office

Chelmsford Veterans Services Office is seeking qualified applicants for the administrative position of Veterans Services Assistant. To be considered for this position the applicant must be a Military Veteran. This position works under the direction of the Veterans Services Director to deliver essential services to Veterans and family members residing in Chelmsford. The Veterans Services Assistant works in accordance with Mass General Laws Chapter 115 and 108 CMR to provide administrative and social services including financial benefits, employment assistance, and a variety of additional services as needed. This position must exercise a high degree of discretion, responsibility, and confidentiality. This is a part-time job with full benefits available. 

Technical Director (Part-Time / No Benefits) / Center for the Arts

The Chelmsford Center for the Arts (CCA) is looking to hire a part-time Technical Director that will provide technical direction and execution of all CCA events and rentals. They primarily work with the sound, lighting and visual production process and they typically work evenings and weekends, overseeing the audio and visual production process of concerts, theatre events, open mic nights, karaoke, specialized classes, trivia, etc.