Ashby MA News July 2026
July in Ashby was marked by a grassroots movement for local education, senior community engagement, and progress in municipal digitization.
Education and Planning
- Ashby Evergreen Charter School (AES): In response to the closure of Ashby Elementary School by the North Middlesex Regional School District, residents have proposed the Ashby Evergreen Charter School. The plan involves utilizing the vacant elementary building for a K-8 expansion starting as early as September 2027.
- Town Modernization: The Planning Board met on July 22 to advance several initiatives, including the Record Digitization Grant, Digital Equity Implementation, and the “Complete Streets” program.
Community Events
- Senior Harbor Cruise: On July 22, the Council on Aging and the Friends of the Ashby Seniors organized a trip for 56 seniors. The outing included lunch in Waltham and a two-hour cruise in Boston Harbor.
- Memorial Service: On July 11, the community honored the life of Joyce Johnson, a former volunteer EMT and registered nurse, at the Ashby Congregational Church.
Public Health and Safety
- Water Quality: The DCR beach at Damon Pond was subject to water quality advisories during late July.
- Public Safety: The Police Department issued reminders regarding extreme heat safety and the illegality of fireworks.