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Boxborough Select Board
How the Boxborough Select Board voted, from the Select Board’s official minutes. 5 Select Board members elected townwide for three-year terms. Kristin Hilberg, Priya Sundaram and David McKiernan joined the board after the May 16, 2023 town election, succeeding Leslie Fox, John Markiewicz and the vacant Campbell seat. On May 22, 2023 the board chose Kristin Hilberg as Chair over Wes Fowlks by roll call (3 to 2) and Priya Sundaram as Clerk (5-0-0). Diana Lipari resigned after that meeting (the board acknowledged her resignation May 30, 2023); the board had four members until the May 2024 election. Covers 33 meetings, May 22 to April 22, 2024.
A monthly email on what it voted on, starting in November.
What does the Select Board do? It is the town’s executive board. It prepares the Town Meeting warrant (the list of articles voters decide), appoints members of many town boards, hires the town’s top staff, signs warrants to pay town bills, and grants licenses and permits.
Town Meeting, not the Select Board, votes the town budget and town bylaws.
Sources: Massachusetts Select Board Handbook (MMA) · Mass. Division of Local Services: the town budgetYour Boxborough ballot: 13 quizzes, about a minute each.
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Coming up
- Tue, Oct 13Select Board Joint Meeting with Acton-Boxborough Tri-Board →
- Wed, Oct 14Select Board Meeting →
From the agendas Boxborough posts on its official site. Agendas can change; the posted agenda is the official one.
Members
Wesley FowlksMember · At-large · at 31 of 33 meetingsDiana LipariMember · At-large · at 1 of 1 meetings · until May 2023David McKiernanMember · At-large · at 33 of 33 meetings
Priya SundaramClerk · At-large · at 31 of 33 meetings"At X of Y meetings" counts the members the minutes list as present at the start of each meeting in this record. Members who step out are listed on each meeting page.
Meetings
About missing minutes
Loaded: Boxborough Select Board minutes from January 8, 2018 through August 24, 2026: 260 meetings and 2,201 votes. The town’s Agenda Center has Select Board minutes from 2017 on; MassVoter loaded 2018 on. Sixteen files posted as 2018-2020 minutes are blank (every page is empty), so those meetings are not here: January 22, February 26 (pre-Town Meeting session), February 27 and April 2, 2018; February 2, March 4, March 18, April 1, April 22, May 6, July 8, July 29, October 11, November 4 and November 18, 2019; and January 6, 2020. A few other files in the minutes slot are the agenda or another meeting’s minutes (January 12, 2018; March 29, June 21, 2021; May 14, 2026). Five scanned files were read by text recognition. The minutes call the board the Board of Selectmen until August 2018 and the Select Board after that. Not here: executive-session minutes (including released ones posted in 2023); subcommittee meetings; votes of the Finance Committee, Planning Board and other boards at joint meetings; Boxborough Leadership Forum and Acton-Boxborough tri-board sessions; meetings with an agenda but no posted minutes (among them October 14, November 24, December 1, December 8 and December 22, 2025, and May 12 and May 28, 2025); and meetings after August 24, 2026 (the September 14 and 28, 2026 minutes are not posted yet). Boxborough’s minutes name the mover and seconder and give the count as yes-no-abstain (“Vote: Approved 5-0-0”); a count that matches the members present with no no votes is shown as every member present voting yes. When a member takes part remotely, and through the Zoom years 2020-2022, the board votes by roll call (“Hilberg – aye; Stemple – aye …”), shown by name. Splits usually name the members who voted no (“Approved 3-2-0 (Fowlks, Anderson)”, “4-1-0, with Member Fowlks against”); where a split count names no one, or the count and the names disagree, we show the count only, with a note (28 votes), and where the minutes give no count or names we show the result only (8 votes). A count printed as “Approved 2-3-0” is shown as failed. Members who recused themselves are not shown in that vote; members who arrived late, left early or were out of the room are shown only in the votes they were there for, and some 2020-2022 minutes give separate attendance lists for the executive-session start and the open session. A motion with no recorded outcome is not counted as a vote. We will ask the town to confirm any noted vote.
Votes where members disagreed
Most board votes are unanimous. These are the ones where at least one member voted no or abstained, newest first.
Apr 22Reduce the dollar amount in Warrant Article 42 from…Motion: Chair Hilberg moved to reduce the dollar amount in Warrant Article…Failed 2–2 · No: Fowlks, McKiernan
April 22, 2024: Reduce the dollar amount in Warrant Article 42 from $500,000 to $250,000
Chair Hilberg moved to reduce the dollar amount in Warrant Article 42 from $500,000 to $250,000. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Failed by Roll Call Vote: Hilberg - aye; Sundaram - aye; Fowlks - nay; McKiernan - nay; 2-2-0.
Yes: Hilberg, SundaramNo: Fowlks, McKiernan
From the minutes
“Chair Hilberg moved to reduce the dollar amount in Warrant Article 42 from $500,000 to $250,000. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Failed by Roll Call Vote: Hilberg - aye; Sundaram - aye; Fowlks - nay; McKiernan - nay; 2-2-0..” (Motion: Hilberg, second: Sundaram)
Sep 26Add an Assistant Town Accountant position and funding to…Motion: Chair Hilberg moved to add an Assistant Town Accountant position and…Failed 2–2 · No: McKiernan, Sundaram
September 26, 2023: Add an Assistant Town Accountant position and funding to the existing language in Article 5
Chair Hilberg moved to add an Assistant Town Accountant position and funding to the existing language in Article 5. Seconded by Member Fowlks. Discussion: Member Sundaram stated that it is important to consider that the public likes to see cooperation and unanimous support from boards/committees on articles. A good argument can be made for both positions if placed in separate articles. 20230926 4 Failed: 2-2-0 by Roll Call: Fowlks "aye," Sundaram "nay," McKiernan "nay," Hilberg, "aye."
Yes: Fowlks, HilbergNo: McKiernan, Sundaram
From the minutes
“Chair Hilberg moved to add an Assistant Town Accountant position and funding to the existing language in Article 5. Seconded by Member Fowlks. Discussion: Member Sundaram stated that it is important to consider that the public likes to see cooperation and unanimous support from boards/committees on articles. A good argument can be made for both positions if placed in separate articles. 20230926 4 Failed: 2-2-0 by Roll Call: Fowlks "aye," Sundaram "nay," McKiernan "nay," Hilberg, "aye.".” (Motion: Hilberg, second: Fowlks)
Sep 26Recommend a full-time, on-site Finance Director/Town Accountant position with…Motion: Chair Hilberg moved to recommend a full-time, on-site Finance Director/Town Accountant…Passed 3–1 · No: Fowlks
September 26, 2023: Recommend a full-time, on-site Finance Director/Town Accountant position with a $55,000 appropriation from Free Cash
Chair Hilberg moved to recommend a full-time, on-site Finance Director/Town Accountant position with a $55,000 appropriation from Free Cash. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Approved: 3-1-0 by Roll Call: Fowlks "nay," Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "aye," Hilberg, "aye."
Yes: Hilberg, McKiernan, SundaramNo: Fowlks
From the minutes
“Chair Hilberg moved to recommend a full-time, on-site Finance Director/Town Accountant position with a $55,000 appropriation from Free Cash. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Approved: 3-1-0 by Roll Call: Fowlks "nay," Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "aye," Hilberg, "aye.".” (Motion: Hilberg, second: Sundaram)
Sep 11Defer the vote of the Select Board for the…Motion: Chair Hilberg moved to defer the vote of the Select Board…Passed 3–1 · No: Fowlks
September 11, 2023: Defer the vote of the Select Board for the Town of Boxborough to enter into an inter-municipal agreement (IMA) with Nashoba Valley Regional Dispatch District (NVRDD) for Regional Dispatch Services...
Chair Hilberg moved to defer the vote of the Select Board for the Town of Boxborough to enter into an inter-municipal agreement (IMA) with Nashoba Valley Regional Dispatch District (NVRDD) for Regional Dispatch Services to Fall Town Meeting. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Approved: 3-1-0 by Roll Call: Fowlks "nay," Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "aye," Hilberg, "aye."
Yes: Hilberg, McKiernan, SundaramNo: Fowlks
From the minutes
“Chair Hilberg moved to defer the vote of the Select Board for the Town of Boxborough to enter into an inter-municipal agreement (IMA) with Nashoba Valley Regional Dispatch District (NVRDD) for Regional Dispatch Services to Fall Town Meeting. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Approved: 3-1-0 by Roll Call: Fowlks "nay," Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "aye," Hilberg, "aye.".” (Motion: Hilberg, second: Sundaram)
Sep 11Appoint Mark Barbadoro to the Economic Development Committee for…Motion: Chair Hilberg moved to appoint Mark Barbadoro to the Economic Development…Failed 2–2 · No: McKiernan, Sundaram
September 11, 2023: Appoint Mark Barbadoro to the Economic Development Committee for a term ending June 30, 2024
Chair Hilberg moved to appoint Mark Barbadoro to the Economic Development Committee for a term ending June 30, 2024. Seconded by Member Fowlks. Discussion: Chair Hilberg stated that there is some concern that Mr. Barbadoro would like to join the EDC for reasons other than the charter. She explained that she believes Mr. Barbadoro could be great on the EDC but is being told by others that she is being manipulated by him. Mr. Barbadoro stated that he has a great track record on boards/committees and was previously voted as Chair of the Planning Board. Member Fowlks noted that he cannot deny Mr. Barbadoro this position simply based on the assertion that he has been mean to people in the past. Diana Lipari stated that the Board should not consider denying a person from sitting on a Committee simply based on personality. Mr. Barbadoro is qualified to be on this Committee, and she was dismayed not to see his resume in the agenda packet. It was noted that additional information submitted by Mr. Barbadoro would be attached to the meeting minutes. Cindy Markowitz noted that wealth of experience that Mr. Barbadoro would bring to this Committee. She asked that the Board not make this decision based on personal politics. Failed: 2-2-0 by Roll Call: Fowlks "aye," Sundaram "nay," McKiernan "nay," Hilberg, "aye."
Yes: Fowlks, HilbergNo: McKiernan, Sundaram
From the minutes
“Chair Hilberg moved to appoint Mark Barbadoro to the Economic Development Committee for a term ending June 30, 2024. Seconded by Member Fowlks. Discussion: Chair Hilberg stated that there is some concern that Mr. Barbadoro would like to join the EDC for reasons other than the charter. She explained that she believes Mr. Barbadoro could be great on the EDC but is being told by others that she is being manipulated by him. Mr. Barbadoro stated that he has a great track record on boards/committees and was previously voted as Chair of the Planning Board. Member Fowlks noted that he cannot deny Mr. Barbadoro this position simply based on the assertion that he has been mean to people in the past. Diana Lipari stated that the Board should not consider denying a person from sitting on a Committee simply based on personality. Mr. Barbadoro is qualified to be on this Committee, and she was dismayed not to see his resume in the agenda packet. It was noted that additional information submitted by Mr. Barbadoro would be attached to the meeting minutes. Cindy Markowitz noted that wealth of experience that Mr. Barbadoro would bring to this Committee. She asked that the Board not make this decision based on personal politics. Failed: 2-2-0 by Roll Call: Fowlks "aye," Sundaram "nay," McKiernan "nay," Hilberg, "aye.".” (Motion: Hilberg, second: Fowlks)
Sep 11Appoint Abby Reip to the Economic Development Committee for…Motion: Chair Hilberg moved to appoint Abby Reip to the Economic Development…Passed 3–0 · see note
September 11, 2023: Appoint Abby Reip to the Economic Development Committee for a term ending June 30, 2026
Chair Hilberg moved to appoint Abby Reip to the Economic Development Committee for a term ending June 30, 2026. Seconded by Member McKiernan. Approved: 3-0-0 by Roll Call: Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "aye," Hilberg, "aye."
Yes: Hilberg, McKiernan, SundaramWesley Fowlks had left the meeting, so is not shown in this vote.
From the minutes
“Chair Hilberg moved to appoint Abby Reip to the Economic Development Committee for a term ending June 30, 2026. Seconded by Member McKiernan. Approved: 3-0-0 by Roll Call: Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "aye," Hilberg, "aye.".” (Motion: Hilberg, second: McKiernan)
Jun 5Appoint Kevin Grebinar as the next Boxborough Fire Chief,…Motion: Member McKiernan moved to appoint Kevin Grebinar as the next Boxborough…Failed 2–2 · No: Fowlks, Hilberg
June 5, 2023 (Special meeting): Appoint Kevin Grebinar as the next Boxborough Fire Chief, subject to successful contract negotiations and any final background and reference checks
Member McKiernan moved to appoint Kevin Grebinar as the next Boxborough Fire Chief, subject to successful contract negotiations and any final background and reference checks. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Failed: 2-2-0 by Roll Call Hilberg, "nay," Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "aye," Fowlks "nay."
Yes: McKiernan, SundaramNo: Fowlks, Hilberg
From the minutes
“Member McKiernan moved to appoint Kevin Grebinar as the next Boxborough Fire Chief, subject to successful contract negotiations and any final background and reference checks. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Failed: 2-2-0 by Roll Call Hilberg, "nay," Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "aye," Fowlks "nay.".” (Motion: McKiernan, second: Sundaram)
Jun 5Appoint Lyle McKay as the next Boxborough Fire Chief,…Motion: Member Fowlks moved to appoint Lyle McKay as the next Boxborough…Passed 3–1 · No: McKiernan
June 5, 2023 (Special meeting): Appoint Lyle McKay as the next Boxborough Fire Chief, subject to successful contract negotiations and any final background and reference checks
Member Fowlks moved to appoint Lyle McKay as the next Boxborough Fire Chief, subject to successful contract negotiations and any final background and reference checks. Seconded by Chair Hilberg. Approved: 3-1-0 by Roll Call Hilberg, "aye," Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "nay," Fowlks "aye."
Yes: Fowlks, Hilberg, SundaramNo: McKiernan
From the minutes
“Member Fowlks moved to appoint Lyle McKay as the next Boxborough Fire Chief, subject to successful contract negotiations and any final background and reference checks. Seconded by Chair Hilberg. Approved: 3-1-0 by Roll Call Hilberg, "aye," Sundaram "aye," McKiernan "nay," Fowlks "aye.".” (Motion: Fowlks, second: Hilberg)
May 22Approve the meeting minutes of May 8, 2023Motion: Member Fowlks moved to approve the meeting minutes of May 8,…Passed 4–0 · Abstained: Sundaram
May 22, 2023: Approve the meeting minutes of May 8, 2023
Member Fowlks moved to approve the meeting minutes of May 8, 2023. Seconded by Member McKiernan. Approved: 4-0-1 by Roll Call Hilberg, "aye," Sundaram "abstain," McKiernan "aye," Fowlks "aye," Lipari "aye."
Yes: Fowlks, Hilberg, Lipari, McKiernanAbstained: Sundaram
From the minutes
“Member Fowlks moved to approve the meeting minutes of May 8, 2023. Seconded by Member McKiernan. Approved: 4-0-1 by Roll Call Hilberg, "aye," Sundaram "abstain," McKiernan "aye," Fowlks "aye," Lipari "aye.".” (Motion: Fowlks, second: McKiernan)
May 22Elect the Chair of the Select Board: Kristin Hilberg…Motion: Member McKiernan nominated Kristin Hilberg for the role of Chair of…Passed · see note
May 22, 2023: Elect the Chair of the Select Board: Kristin Hilberg (nominated by Mr. McKiernan) or Wes Fowlks (nominated by Chair Lipari)
Member McKiernan nominated Kristin Hilberg for the role of Chair of the Select Board for a term ending at the next reorganization. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Chair Lipari nominated Wes Fowlks for the role of Chair of the Select Board for a term ending at the next reorganization. Seconded by Member Fowlks. By Roll Call Hilberg, "Hilberg," Sundaram "Hilberg," McKiernan "Hilberg," Fowlks "Fowlks," Lipari "Fowlks." Kristin Hilberg was named Chair of the Select Board.
A choice between two nominees, not a yes-or-no vote. The roll call: Hilberg “Hilberg,” Sundaram “Hilberg,” McKiernan “Hilberg,” Fowlks “Fowlks,” Lipari “Fowlks.” Kristin Hilberg was named Chair (3 to 2). Showing the result only.
From the minutes
“Member McKiernan nominated Kristin Hilberg for the role of Chair of the Select Board for a term ending at the next reorganization. Seconded by Member Sundaram. Chair Lipari nominated Wes Fowlks for the role of Chair of the Select Board for a term ending at the next reorganization. Seconded by Member Fowlks. By Roll Call Hilberg, "Hilberg," Sundaram "Hilberg," McKiernan "Hilberg," Fowlks "Fowlks," Lipari "Fowlks." Kristin Hilberg was named Chair of the Select Board..” (Motion: McKiernan, second: Sundaram)
From the Boxborough Select Board’s official minutes, posted in the town’s Agenda Center (Select Board). We check every vote against the Select Board members present and quote the exact wording. MassVoter never grades or scores officials. Photos: Town of Boxborough Select Board page (named group photo, LCTV) — Sam Anderson, Priya Sundaram, Wes Fowlks, Bob Stemple and Kristin Hilberg. Cropped by MassVoter. Former members show initials.
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