WESTFORD – The Westford Select Board met on October 14 to welcome a new town official, finalize winter operations policies, and hear updates on ongoing efforts to boost business development and improve town communications.
The meeting opened with the introduction of Nathan Guimette, Westford’s new Information Technology Director. A town resident and former IT Director in Dracut, Guimette said he looks forward to using his experience to strengthen Westford’s technology systems and support local schools.
Board members reminded residents of several upcoming events, including Special Town Meeting on October 27 at 7 p.m. at Westford Academy, where voters will consider 13 warrant articles. The League of Women Voters will host a virtual preview of the articles on October 16. Other community highlights include the Monster Mash on October 25 at the Rodenbush Community Center and an Indigenous Peoples Day celebration on October 19 at the Town Common. Town offices will also observe early closings before Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.
The board approved a National Grid petition to relocate a utility pole on North Main Street to accommodate a culvert project and endorsed a manager change for the American Legion Post 159 on Cross Street.
A major portion of the meeting focused on the Department of Public Works’ proposed Winter Maintenance Policy, which outlines procedures for snow and ice operations, and an updated Mailbox Policy clarifying replacement guidelines for boxes damaged during plowing. Both were unanimously adopted. DPW Director Kyle Fox said the policies promote consistency and transparency in town services while helping to limit liability.
Looking ahead, the board discussed the start of the FY27 budget process, which will begin with a Tri-Board meeting with the School Committee and Finance Committee on October 28.
The Economic Development Committee also provided an update on its work to attract and retain businesses through the Discover Westford initiative. Chair Imran Nawaz said the group hopes to secure between $72,900 and $107,400 in next year’s budget to continue consulting and outreach work. Board members expressed interest in tracking measurable outcomes, such as commercial vacancy rates and tax base growth, to assess the program’s long-term value.
Rounding out the evening, representatives from Capital Strategic Solutions, the town’s communications consultant, reported growing engagement across social media and the town website since the launch of a coordinated communications plan earlier this year. The firm has also trained staff in public messaging and crisis communications and is preparing the FY24 annual report.
The Select Board will meet next on October 28 for the Tri-Board budget kickoff session.
Watch the Select Board meeting:
