Athol MA News July 2026
Athol experienced a month defined by high-profile legal outcomes, major infrastructure shifts, and new community developments.
Legal and Infrastructure
- Fraud Verdict: A Middlesex County jury found Joseph Cuzzupoli, co-founder of Blupoint Healthcare, liable for $2.1 million in fraud and breach of contract related to Quabbin Valley Healthcare.
- LaunchSpace Kitchen: A soft opening was held on July 24 for a shared-use commercial kitchen at the former Pleasant Street School. This is part of an $18-million regional food system project.
- Main Street Demolition: Officials proceeded with the partial demolition of 339 Main Street, a blighted property with over $78,000 in unpaid taxes.
- Bates Powers Dam: The Select Board approved the final removal and sale of the dam.
Public Safety and Environment
- Park Surveillance: To combat vandalism and break-ins, the town installed security cameras at Lake Park, Silver Lake Park, and Fish Park.
- Weather Alerts: A Flash Flood Warning was issued on July 29; however, low underground water tables necessitated continued mandatory water restrictions.
- Tragic Accident: A 26-year-old Athol man was killed in a single-vehicle crash on Blackinton Road in nearby New Salem on July 10.
Community Initiatives
- Operation Fire Taco: The Rotary Club of Athol/Orange is fundraising to send a refurbished 1995 pumper fire truck to Ayutla, Mexico.
- Downtown Events: Following the cancellation of Fourth Friday festivals due to road paving, the Downtown Vitality Committee explored hosting alternative sidewalk sales.