The Historical Commission meeting held on April 3, 2025, focused primarily on budgetary discussions for the upcoming fiscal year 2026. The meeting began with a presentation by a commission member regarding the budget request, which aimed to secure funding for a historical marker and related projects.

The commission member highlighted that the budget had been significantly reduced in recent years, dropping from a more substantial amount pre-COVID to a mere $1,000. This reduction was attributed to various factors, including the suspension of the sign program and the absence of a recording secretary. The member proposed a budget request of approximately $4,250, which would allow for the modification and mounting of a sign related to the Boston and Worcester bridge abutment, as well as the installation of a Revolutionary War plaque in the old burial ground.

The proposed increase raised concerns among the select board and advisory committee due to its substantial percentage rise from the previous budget. The commission member defended the request by arguing that, when adjusted for inflation, the proposed budget would only reflect the funding levels from 2016 and 2017.

In a notable development, the commission member revealed that a donor had come forward, offering to fully fund the historical marker project. The donor requested confidentiality regarding their identity, but the commission member expressed confidence in the legitimacy of the offer.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism regarding the funding for the historical marker, thanks to the unexpected donor support. The commission plans to proceed with the project while respecting the donor's request for anonymity.