by Frank Schroth

The DPW may receive much needed funding from two sources according to Joe Lynch who appeared before the Warrant Committee. He was present with town engineer John Thompson to discuss a number of articles and during the conversations noted that it is expected that Milton will receive a significantly higher level of Chapter 90 funding. Chapter 90 is state funding that goes to municipalities for roadway maintenance. Milton may see ~$300K increase in this funding due, Mr Lynch said, to the recent transportation bond bill. It will increase from ~$622K to ~$932K.

In addition, Mr. Lynch reported that Governor Baker had recently requested FEMA reimbursements for the entire 4 snow storms the state has endured (see related WBUR article on this here). “That’s huge,” was the response of Ted Hays, Chair of Warrant Committee. Generally disaster relief is granted on a storm by storm basis. While Hays acknowledged that the money if it comes through will not be for a couple of years, it is very good financial news regardless.

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At a meeting of the Condominium Working Group last night it was brought to the attention of members that the Hoosic Club is for sale. Details are sketchy but it appears the owners want to focus their energy and resources on their club in Canton. A recent article in Golf Industry Magazine would seem to support that. (please see Robert McNeil working with Milton Hoosic Club) Co-chair Whiteside said that if in fact the property is in play that attention should be put to it “with dispatch.” (i.e. deal with a task or problem quickly and efficiently). While dealing with an issue quickly and efficiently are not typical hallmarks of our planning process, there is a sense of urgency as another historic structure could follow the fate of the Women’s Club and the St Elizabeth Rectory. The committee is looking at a possible general bylaw that would allow condominium and townhouse development. The challenge is in crafting a bylaw that affords protections for neighborhoods and a flexible framework that can work for multiple locations, controlling density and providing restrictions that protect community character (e.g. open space).

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The folks behind WAM (We Are Milton0 confirmed on their Facebook page that they will be hosting the Milton Music Fest and Fireworks event again this summer. The event will be held on June 27th and be followed the next day by the second annual Gaelic Sunday. So there’s something to look forward to.

Here is a video of the 2013 event. But you really need to be there is person – which you can be this summer!