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.

Mannan to represent town in MWRA discussions with Southborough

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

Select Board member Shahidul Mannan will represent Hopkinton in the ongoing negotiations over the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority with Southborough.

Mannan volunteered for the position at the Select Board meeting Tuesday night. The negotiator position usually defaults to the chair, but due to a conflict of interest, Brian Herr is unable to take on the responsibility.

The issue was brought up for discussion during Town Manager Elaine Lazarus’ report to the board at Tuesday’s meeting. Lazarus noted that “Southborough is eager to start talking.”

The appointment of a negotiator is one of several next steps in the process of establishing Hopkinton’s connection to the MWRA. Mannan said in a previous interview with the Independent that the agreement with Southborough is at “a pretty advanced stage,” though much more work is needed to finalize the deal.

Last month, the Select Board met with members of the newly formed Water and Sewer Advisory Board. During that meeting, WSAB members provided clarity on the town’s drinking water options and encouraged action on the intermunicipal agreement.

During that meeting, Assistant Town Manager Lance Delpriore said the agreement remained at a standstill due to the need for reviews on the 30% design plan. An article requesting money for a 50% design plan has been submitted to the warrant for the May 5 Annual Town Meeting.

Latest News

The Select Board on Tuesday voted to recommend a plan for an adaptive playground for funding, noting that there has been public demand for such facilities in recent years.

Our latest Sports Roundup covers Hopkinton resident Kaitlyn Breslin tying an NCAA softball record at the University of Connecticut and Nate Kasper’s work in helping his basketball team at Western New England College.

The latest Police Log features reports of vehicles speeding in Hopkinton State Park, dogs loose on Falcon Ridge Drive and a hidden vehicle behind the LNG plant.

The Hopkinton Center for the Arts, in partnership with the 26.2 Foundation, will be hosting “Stories and Songs” on Friday at the HCA. Five marathoners will share their personal stories, paired with live music.

Town meetings tonight include the School Committee (6:45).

Photo of the Day

Members of the Hopkinton Women’s Club (from left) Betty Dudley, Nancy Tarsi, Cris Bright and Suzanne Green recently volunteered at the warehouse of Dignity Matters, a nonprofit located in Westborough dedicated to ensuring that homeless and disadvantaged women and girls have access to essential menstrual care products and underwear, enabling them to maintain their health and dignity.