Huddleston explores grant opportunities for solar energy and community resilience initiatives

The Board of Health meeting for Hubbardston, held on April 9, 2025, focused on several key topics related to community health and infrastructure improvements. The meeting began with discussions on housing inspections, where it was noted that the Montachusett Public Health Network (MPHN) has secured a grant allowing them to provide housing inspectors at no cost. However, participation from local towns in these initiatives has been declining, with only a few towns actively involved.

Concerns were raised about the transparency of grant funding, with board members expressing a desire for clearer communication regarding how grant money is being allocated and which programs are being supported. The MPHN acknowledged this concern and committed to providing more detailed information in future meetings.

The board also discussed the logistics of meeting locations, suggesting a return to Westminster for future gatherings to increase accessibility for residents from surrounding towns. The current setup in Fitchburg, while technologically advanced, has limited attendance from other communities.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the proposal for a new hybrid meeting room at 48 Gardner Road, which would be ADA compliant and equipped for better public interaction. This initiative, funded through the PEG access fund rather than taxpayer money, aims to enhance community engagement during meetings.

Additionally, the board reviewed recent grant prioritization sessions, highlighting the need for improved cell service and staffing as top priorities. The feasibility of a solar array and battery storage system for local schools was also discussed, with a grant application submitted in partnership with the town of Hardwick.

Plans to establish the senior center as a second emergency dispensing site were outlined, emphasizing the importance of having multiple locations for emergency services. The meeting concluded with a commitment to review emergency dispensing site plans in future discussions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's ongoing efforts to improve community health services and infrastructure while addressing the challenges of participation and funding transparency.