Northborough Board debates Blake Street redevelopment amid financial concerns

During a recent meeting of the Northborough Select Board, members engaged in a critical discussion regarding the proposed redevelopment of Blake Street, highlighting concerns about fiscal responsibility and the potential impact on local taxes. The meeting, held on April 9, 2025, revealed a divide among board members regarding the financial implications of the project, which is estimated to require approximately $1 million in debt funding.

The board's deliberations were prompted by a recommendation from the Finance Committee, which had voted against the project, citing concerns over the town's financial stability amid predictions of an impending recession. The Select Board members expressed apprehension about adding to the tax burden, especially following a significant tax increase of over 6% in the previous year. Current projections suggest that the tax rate could rise by 10.2% if the Blake Street redevelopment proceeds as planned.

One board member emphasized the need for a thorough discussion before moving forward, suggesting that the project might be premature given the lack of consensus among property owners and the uncertainty surrounding the adjacent 4 West Main property. This sentiment was echoed by others who argued that postponing the project could allow for more comprehensive planning and potential partnerships that might alleviate some of the financial burden.

The conversation also touched on the possibility of amending the funding structure at the upcoming town meeting, with suggestions to utilize available free cash instead of incurring debt. However, concerns were raised about the implications of such changes on other essential town services, including police and fire departments.

Despite the financial hesitations, some members of the board advocated for the project, arguing that revitalizing downtown Northborough is a long-standing goal of the community. They pointed out that investing in infrastructure could attract future development and signal the town's commitment to progress.

As the meeting concluded, the Select Board faced the challenge of balancing fiscal prudence with the community's desire for development. The outcome of this discussion will likely shape the town's approach to the Blake Street redevelopment and its broader economic strategy in the coming years. The board is expected to revisit the topic as they prepare for the upcoming town meeting, where the fate of the project will ultimately be decided.