On Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 7 p.m., a Special Town Meeting will be held at Ashland High School. As Ashland's legislative branch operates under the Open Town Meeting form of government, all registered voters have the opportunity to participate and vote on financial decisions, community issues, and bylaws through warrant articles.

Each fall, the Town conducts a Special Town Meeting to vote on various financial articles, including the appropriation of free cash. In accordance with our financial policies, this funding supports the General Stabilization, OPEB Trust Fund, SPED Stabilization, Capital, and other one-time expenditures. Additionally, residents will be asked to approve updates to three general bylaws to ensure conformity with Massachusetts General Law. As is customary each year, we will also establish the Senior Tax Exemption, which provides eligible seniors with a reduction in their property taxes.

Articles will also be presented for a vote on several Community Preservation Committee initiatives. These articles propose enhancements, improvements, and preservation efforts for various Town properties.

If you wish to participate but are not yet registered to vote, the deadline to register is Nov. 7. For more information, please visit: https://ashlandmass.com/449/Town-Meeting

The Ashland Recreation Department will offer free childcare in the High School Gym to make it easier for families with younger children to attend. Please use this link to register your child(ren) for ARC childcare. Volunteers will be in the Ashland High School gym from 6:45 to 9 p.m. during the Special Town Meeting to engage children with games and crafts. Please note that no food is allowed in the gym, and water is the only permitted beverage. We kindly request that if your child is not feeling well, they remain home.