Hardwick MA – May 2026
The top news stories in Hardwick, MA this month are dominated by local election results, upcoming municipal budget preparations, and zoning modifications as the town prepares for its high-stakes Annual Town Meeting.
2026 Annual Town Election Results
The Hardwick Town Election took place on May 2, 2026. The ballot featured two key contested races for crucial local offices:
Select Board Race: Elizabeth V. Cyran and Zachary E. Spencer faced off to secure the three-year term vacated by incumbent Eric Vollheim, who did not run for re-election.
Board of Health: Heidi Johnson and Lisa J. Nash went head-to-head for a three-year seat, replacing outgoing incumbent Paul Mailhot.
Unopposed Wins: Ryan J. Witkos held his positions as both Town Clerk and Moderator, while Colin R. Brown secured his seat on the K-12 Quabbin Regional School Committee.
Town Meeting Preparations & Zoning Amendments
Local government boards spent the month finalizing logistics for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting, officially scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Zoning Bylaw Public Hearing: On May 19, 2026, the Planning Board hosted a vital public hearing regarding Proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendments. These amendments will be put before residents for a final vote at the June meeting.
FY 2027 Budget Reviews: The Hardwick Finance Committee and the Select Board held a joint session on May 21, 2026, to nail down final changes to the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget before presenting it to taxpayers.
Modernizing Town Infrastructure
During May Select Board meetings, town administrators advanced plans to upgrade municipal efficiency:
Online Permitting System: The Select Board announced that the town received a grant to implement a streamlined, town-wide online permitting system. Modeled after a successful program in Millbury, this new system allows departments like the Treasurer and Planning Board to instantly cross-reference tax compliance and expedite approvals.
IT Infrastructure: The town is currently evaluating bids from its recent Request for Proposals (RFP) to secure new Town-wide Managed IT Services.
Road Closures and Tree Removals
The Hardwick / New Braintree Police Department issued traffic advisories for major infrastructure maintenance. Standard through-traffic on Hardwick Road (between Route 122/New Salem Road and Glenn Valley Road) faces daytime closures while specialized crane crews clear hazardous trees. Commercial trucks are being rerouted to Route 32.