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WESTBOROUGH, Mass. — What does 2013 have in store for the town? The following are some of the topics that will come up in Westborough this year:
Gibbons Middle School Renovations: Necessary renovations at Gibbons Middle School are nothing new, but they actually may take place in 2013. In October, the state approved a feasibility study for the school, and school committee vice-chair Stephen Doret has been working with state offices to push the process along.
Medicinal Marijuana Bylaws, Contention: The Westborough Board of Selectmen and Westborough School Committee have opted to send a letter to the state legislature requesting a delay in the implementation of the new medicinal marijuana law. While that will not be decided upon until the legislature reconvenes in January, the Westborough Planning Board is drawing up a bylaw on rules and regulations pertaining to dispensaries and home growing locations in Westborough.
Commonwealth Connect: In March, a new smartphone app will revelutionize how Westborough reports maintenance issues to the Department of Public Works. Town Manager Jim Malloy said Westborough was selected to pilot the program for three years with several Metro West communities.
Not "Hollywood East" Talks Continue: Developer Anton Nel said he is averse to the term "Hollywood East," but developer he will continue his plan to revolutionize the media industry in Westborough by utilizing the former State Hospital land surrounding Lake Chauncy. Nel currently is working with local designer Randy Waterman to help realize his dream for the area.
A Constructive Year: There are construction plans in place for several new buildings. Some will begin construction while others that have been growing before the eyes of residents will come to completion. The senior living community going up across from the Post Office on East Main Street is slated for completion in the summer. St. Mary's Federal Credit Union broke ground early in December at the former 96 Turnpike Road Friendly's and is expected to be completed in mid-2013. The state broke ground on its first net-zero building for its new fisheries and wildlife office late in December, and it is expected to be completely before the end of the year. Finally, the new Westborough fire house is in the design process, and Town Manager Jim Malloy said he hopes to see "shovels in the ground" by summer.
U.S. Senate Special Election Campaign: With U.S. Sen. John Kerry likely joining the Obama administration, Massachusetts probably will have another special election in 2013. Scott Brown, who will be looking to win another special election, visited the area in 2012, so look for him in the area again.
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