WESTFORD CENTER — The Westford Select Board opened its July 14 meeting with community recognitions, updates on veterans’ services and the new trash program, and heard resident concerns about noise, speeding and bicycle safety.
Rep. Jim Arciero honored three Westford residents for their outstanding contributions. Wendy Gloyd received the inaugural Commonwealth Pride Award for her work promoting inclusion and civic engagement. Gloyd thanked the community and fellow volunteers, noting that many people contribute behind the scenes to make local events successful.
Board Chair Chris Barrett praised Gloyd for helping organize programs such as the public reading of Frederick Douglass’ famous speech and for her constant involvement in town activities.
Pat Reppucci was recognized with the 2026 Commonwealth Heroine Award for her leadership with the Friends of the Cameron Senior Center and her service on town committees, including the Disability Commission and the Coalition for Nonviolence.
“I try to stay under the radar if at all possible,” Rapucci said, adding that as an immigrant child, her family benefited from the kindness of others and she hopes to continue paying that forward through community service.
Dr. Ann Westerheim, who helms Ekaru, was acknowledged for receiving a Governor’s Citation for raising cybersecurity awareness through her “Cyber Security for Main Street” initiative.
Veterans service reports strong results
One of the evening’s most notable presentations came from Veteran Services Officer Colin Bode, who outlined a year of expanded outreach and benefit assistance for Westford’s veteran community.
Since June 2025, Bode said his office has filed 72 federal Veteran Affairs claims for compensation, survivor benefits, burial assistance, and other services. Of the claims decided so far, 33 have been approved, giving the office a success rate of roughly 91%, well above the national benchmark of 65%.
Bode emphasized that the office has worked with veterans from nearly every major U.S. conflict, from World War II through the current Middle East operations.
Among the cases that stood out was a 104-year-old World War II veteran who flew B-17 bombing missions over Europe and later served in Korea.
“These veterans risked their lives for future generations,” Bode said. “The least we can do is make sure they receive the benefits they earned.”
The office has also expanded its outreach through social media, faith communities, and events at the Cameron Senior Center, including veterans breakfasts and coffee gatherings.
Trash program off to solid start
Town Assistant Manager Mike Edwards reported that the Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) trash program has completed its first two weeks with relatively few issues.
The town has distributed about 8,000 trash carts and sold roughly 24,000 official trash bags, generating about $66,000 in revenue so far. Most households, Edwards said, appear to be adapting successfully to the new system.
The town plans to announce several options for disposing of old trash carts later this week. Officials are also studying future enhancements, such as additional cart subscriptions.
Board members credited Edwards and town staff for the extensive planning behind the rollout.
“This has been a very complex and difficult program to implement,” Barrett said. “The smooth rollout we’re seeing is in large part due to your preparation and leadership.”
The town also reminded residents that hardship assistance is available through the Cameron Senior Center for qualifying households and for residents with disabilities, who may have difficulty using the new carts.
Public concerns: noise, speeding and bike safety
During public comment, Texas Road resident Andrew Buckley raised three issues: the lack of a formal noise ordinance, citing ongoing loud music from a neighbor, speeding on Texas Road where vehicles often reach 40-45 mph near young children might be playing, and bicycle safety concerns after several close calls.
Another resident added that the growing number of children riding electric bicycles has created additional safety concerns on local roads.
The board agreed to review the town’s options regarding noise regulations and speed-limit options, and offered to connect Buckley with the Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Committee for further discussion. Members also noted ongoing educational efforts regarding e-bikes.
Other business and announcements
The board announced a hybrid public listening session on health insurance for July 23 at 4:30 p.m. at Stony Brook School.
Members also highlighted ongoing public engagement efforts, including a recent listening session with leaders from Westford’s Indian-American community and an upcoming session with parents of school-age children.
In addition, officials encouraged residents to attend the July 21 tri-board meeting on the Robinson School feasibility study, which is examining long-term options for elementary school facilities and potential future construction projects.
The meeting concluded with the approval of several contracts and the formal opening of the warrant for the Special Town Meeting beginning on Oct. 26.
