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.

Town Meeting passes article to complete MWRA design work

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

The first clicker vote at Monday night’s Annual Town Meeting approved funding for continued design work for the town’s connection to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority.

Article 21 on the warrant sought to appropriate $375,000 from certified free cash to finish the design work for an MWRA connection through Southborough. The money would be repaid into the general fund over two fiscal years through the water enterprise fund.

Before voting on the article, residents asked clarifying questions. Anne Mattina asked whether the reimbursement to the general fund would have an impact on water rates. Chief financial officer Kyla LaPierre responded that the Select Board would be discussing potential rate increases in June, but that rates had been raised 40% last year for fiscal year 2025.

Paul Gallagher, chair of the Water-Sewer Advisory Board, voiced support for funding the MWRA design work.

In responding to open forum questions about the Independent’s reporting about a WSAB meeting where alternate water solutions were discussed, Gallagher stressed that action on the MWRA connection was necessary.

“You can’t even delay at this stage,” he said. “You have to move forward and do the project.”

Added Gallagher: “This design work is absolutely needed … The execution phase of the project should proceed.”

After further discussion, residents approved the article 128-21. The funding will go toward finalizing the current design work, which Appropriation Committee chair Michael Manning noted was about 60% complete.

Latest News

Hopkinton High School girls lacrosse coach Marisa Remley says her team has hit its stride after a streak of wins powered by a strong roster of experienced players and leaders.

This week’s Move in Style Athlete Spotlight shines on Dylan Ruff, a senior on the baseball team who, now committed to Saint Anselm College, has performed for Hopkinton as a “college level” shortstop according to coach Matt Anderson.

This week’s Library Corner features information on an interactive program about snakes, a pop-up book sale and a paint class for kids.

Our latest Business Profile highlights EARTH Ltd., a program partnered with Southwick’s Zoo whose summer programs for kids are intended to help kids get close to animals and nature.

Project Just Because will host its annual golf fundraiser on June 16 at Hopkinton Country Club.

Town meetings tonight include the Design Review Board (5:30) and the Veterans Celebration Committee (6:30).

Photo of the Day

A rabbit checks out a yard near downtown recently.

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR