The Historic District Commission of Northborough, Massachusetts convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss the updating of the town's street naming system. The meeting focused on reviewing existing street names, proposing new names, and addressing the appropriateness of certain names in modern society.

The discussion began with a proposal to maintain the current grid system for street names while eliminating those that are already in use. Members agreed that a vote would be necessary to determine which names should be removed due to their inappropriateness. Several members contributed suggestions for new names, with one member noting they had already compiled a list of potential additions.

Leslie, a commission member, presented a list highlighting names that should be removed, explaining that some were duplicates or deemed unsuitable. For instance, names like "Baptist" and "Wampum" were discussed and ultimately struck from the list due to their religious connotations or cultural insensitivity. The commission also debated the merits of names that could cause confusion, such as "Smith Pond" and "Smith Road," agreeing that similar names should be avoided to prevent misdirection.

The commission members engaged in a thorough review of the proposed names, with some expressing concerns over names that were too similar or could lead to confusion among residents and visitors. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that new names reflect the community's values and history.

As the meeting progressed, members agreed to circulate the updated list of names for further review. They encouraged all members to provide feedback on the proposed deletions and additions. The commission aims to finalize the list in the coming weeks, ensuring that the new street names are both appropriate and reflective of Northborough's heritage.

In conclusion, the Historic District Commission's meeting highlighted the importance of thoughtful street naming in preserving the town's identity while adapting to contemporary values. The commission plans to reconvene to finalize the list and implement the changes discussed.