Westminster Select Board Backs Federal Police Hiring Grant, Approves $396K Warrant

WINCHENDON — April 27, 2026 — Westminster Select Board approves $396,758 warrant and backs federal police hiring grant application. The board voted unanimously on all items at its April 27 meeting, including payroll authorizations for Crocker Pond seasonal staff, a $1,500 ambulance fee write-off, and updated pond rules and regulations. Police Chief LeMay asked for and received verbal support to apply for the COPS Hiring Program grant, which would cover 75 percent of salary and fringe benefits for new officers for three years, potentially funding two positions at significantly reduced cost to taxpayers. The meeting also drew public comment from resident Meredith Fagan, who questioned whether Select Board member Missy Banks acted appropriately by contacting her directly about the proposed 48-unit Adams Street 40B development; Banks said she acted as a neighbor offering practical tips, not as a board representative, and clarified the board's earlier "friendly 40B" vote did not constitute project approval. The Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled six hearings on the Adams Street project from May through October, with a potential determination on October 6.