The Stoughton Select Board opened its Wednesday session with a celebration of the town’s growing public safety ranks, swearing in three new police officers before turning to a series of decisions aimed at long-term fiscal stability and community infrastructure. Police Chief McNamara introduced Officers Oscar Estrada, Kyle Doolin, and Nicholas Doucette, noting that the department’s recent recruitment success stems from a revamped hiring and testing process. That just goes to show the success that we've had in our town with the new process of hiring and our new test, McNamara said, highlighting the diverse backgrounds of the new hires, which include a former collegiate soccer player, a lifelong Stoughton resident, and a U.S. Army veteran. Each officer took the oath of office before a packed hall of family and supporters.

The board shifted focus to town planning by adopting a new Housing Production Plan, a move Town Manager Thomas Coulter described as vital for maintaining local control over development. By keeping the town above the state-mandated 10% affordable housing threshold, Stoughton can prevent developers from using "40B" overrides to bypass local zoning bylaws. Motion Made by L. Gitto to adopt the Housing Production Plan, authorizing staff to make clerical, typographical, and editorial changes. Motion Passed (5-0). While supporting the measure, Member Scott Carrara expressed ongoing concerns about the impact of residential growth on the town's character, noting he wanted to ensure the plan focused on preserving suburban character and industrial land.

Economic sustainability was a recurring theme throughout the evening, particularly regarding the town’s waste management costs. During an announcement for a new "Fix-It Clinic" scheduled for April 25 at the library, Coulter revealed that Stoughton spent more than $650,000 in 2024 on materials put into the solid waste stream that could have been reused or recycled. Christine Iacobucci of the library and April Melito of the DPW explained the event will feature neighbors helping neighbors repair small appliances and electronics. Not only is the right thing to do, it's a huge money saver for the town, Coulter noted. Member Louis Gitto added a sobering perspective on the town’s broader financial health, pointing out that Stoughton’s average salary remains low compared to the rest of Norfolk County. Those things mean that it's going to be harder for people to pay for the government that we are expecting, Gitto said, urging the board to think carefully about future budget requests that could increase the tax burden.

Public comment brought forth immediate concerns regarding Town Hall accessibility. Resident Cynthia Walsh criticized the ongoing closure of the Town Hall ramp, which she described as an unwelcoming barrier for residents with mobility issues. I can't imagine a worse greeting than not being able to use the ramp, Walsh said, also reporting a broken handicap stall at the Senior Center. Coulter apologized for the inconvenience, explaining that the ramp was shuttered as a "life-safety hazard" after a falling block of ice totaled a vehicle earlier that afternoon. He committed to seeking long-term solutions, such as a canopy, to prevent future closures during winter weather.

The board also acted to formalize the Stoughton Cultural Council to ensure the town remains eligible for state funding. Chair Stephen Cavey explained the need to memorialize the council’s structure so future boards would have a clear record of its authority. Motion Made by D. Roberts to establish and or reaffirm the establishment of a committee known as the Stoughton Cultural Council in accordance with General Law, Chapter 10, Section 58. Motion Passed (5-0). Member Carrara questioned whether the council would have the power to make rules without public hearings, but Coulter clarified that the Select Board retains the sole authority to make appointments to the body.

In other business, the board addressed vacancies on the 300th Anniversary Committee. Following a public hearing, the board recognized the "deemed resignations" of two members who had stopped attending meetings. Motion Made by S. Carrara to recognize the resignations of Scott Santos and Joanne Callahan. Motion Passed (5-0). To fill the gaps, the board interviewed and appointed two active volunteers. Lori Jakes, an event planner by trade, told the board she has been attending meetings since the fall, while Fred Minsker highlighted his success in selling 180 banners for town fundraising. I just love the town, Minsker said. I just figured do something to give back to the community. Motion Made by D. Roberts to appoint Lori Jakes and Fred Minsker to the 300th Anniversary Committee. Motion Passed (5-0). The board also appointed educator Patricia Martin as a Library Trustee. Martin, a long-time resident, told the board, I'd like to work with the other trustees in order to be able to continue the great work that's been done in Stoughton. Motion Made by D. Roberts to appoint Patricia Martin as Library Trustee. Motion Passed (5-0).

The meeting concluded with personal reflections from the board, including a tribute from Member Joseph Mokrisky to the late John "Stretch" Fallon, a 37-year firefighter and former Select Board member who passed away recently. We've lost, just in the last month, two members of our firefighting family, Mokrisky said, also honoring Carol Malendi. Vice Chair Debra Roberts closed by thanking residents for participating in the recent local elections despite the winter weather, noting, Showing up on a cold winter day takes real commitment. The Select Board is expected to return to the sensitive issue of the Stoughton Media Access Corporation (SMAC) agreement at their next scheduled hearing on March 10.