Good morning, Hopkinton! Welcome to the daily update we call Hopkinton Today — a quick recap of yesterday’s news, highlights of what’s on tap, and a photo of the day.

Public hearing to gather community feedback on FY 26 water and sewer recommendations

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

Residents will have an opportunity this week to voice their opinions about proposed water/sewer rates for fiscal year 2026.

In a notice to residents last week, Assistant Town Manager Lance DelPriore announced that the Select Board will be holding a public meeting this Tuesday to set water and sewer rates and receive community feedback.

According to the notice, the proposed water rate recommendation by town staff is a 25% increase, which would cost the average user $53.96 per month. Meanwhile, the Water & Sewer Advisory Board is recommending a 10% increase for $47.70 per month.

Both the WSAB and town staff have recommended a 10% increase for sewer rates. This would make the rate for sewer $77.78 per month for the average user.

The Select Board also is considering potential rate discounts for certain residents.

A presentation given to the Select Board earlier this month predicted the town’s water budget will triple from $2.8 million to $8.4 million by FY 35. Costs from the proposed connection to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority and critical water infrastructure projects are included in that projection.

Department of Public Works Director Kerry Reed explained to the Select Board during that meeting that her department is trying to be more proactive about the town’s water systems, especially in the wake of “some huge regulatory requirements” the DPW has had to address.

The 25% water rate proposal, Reed argued, would help the town invest in necessary capital projects now rather than later.

Residents are encouraged to attend tomorrow’s public hearing either in-person or via Zoom. The hearing is scheduled to happen at 6:40 p.m. during the Select Board meeting.

Latest News

The Hopkinton Police Department announced it is investigating a string of recent mailbox vandalism across town.

Superintendent Carol Cavanaugh gave her final report to the School Committee on Thursday night and thanked committee members and the community for their support through her nine years in the role.

The Community Preservation Committee on Thursday decided it would extend the deadlines for several projects receiving CPC funding.

MassDOT announced that overnight work on the MassPike eastbound to Interstate 495 northbound ramp and the I-495 to I-90 westbound ramp will continue this week through Friday morning.

Town meetings tonight include the Appropriation Committee (5), Planning Board (7) and Library Board of Trustees (7).

Photo of the Day

Runners head out from Hopkinton High School at the start of Saturday’s Sharon Timlin Memorial 5K.

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO