North Central Massachusetts News Week of April 6, 2026
North Central Massachusetts has several community events, local government transitions, and seasonal initiatives scheduled for the week of April 6, 2026.
Town Elections: Annual elections are scheduled for Monday, April 6, 2026, in several communities including Royalston and Petersham, with polls typically open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Phillipston Leadership Change: The town is undergoing a significant leadership transition this month as the Chief Administrative Officer departs for a new role.
Selectboard Meetings: Public meetings are scheduled in New Salem (April 13) and North Reading (April 6).
Community Events & Activities
Royalston: The town is hosting a Weekly Yoga Program every Tuesday in April (starting April 7) from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and a Council on Aging Luncheon on Wednesday, April 8. A Game Night is also planned for Friday, April 10, at the Town Hall.
Hubbardston: Weekly Toddler Story Time continues at Animal Adventures on Wednesday, April 8, at 10:00 AM.
Westminster: Live country-influenced music featuring Freddy and the Freeloaders will take place at Wachusett Brewing Company on Friday, April 10.
New Salem: The Creators’ Circle community gathering is held on Monday, April 6, at 1:00 PM at the Public Library.
Fitchburg State Cheerleading Showcase: On Monday, April 6, at 8:30 PM, the Fitchburg State Cheerleaders will perform a final showcase at the Recreation Center before traveling to Daytona, FL, for the College Cheerleading Nationals.
Library Book Sale: The Fitchburg Public Library is hosting its monthly Friends of the Library Book Sale on Monday, April 6, from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Rietta Flea Market Opening: The popular Rietta Flea Market in Hubbardston is projected to open for its 60th season this week, weather permitting. On Sunday April 5th, the weather did not cooperate.
Youth Fishing Derby: Leominster is preparing to host its annual trout stocking event and youth fishing derby this week.
Public Services & Infrastructure
Roadwork & Maintenance: Spring street sweeping is set to begin on April 6 in Worcester, and water main flushing is scheduled to start the same week in West Andover.
Fitchburg Construction: Ongoing road construction is reported for the week of April 6, including potential impacts on major routes.
Spring Pothole Repairs: The Fitchburg Department of Public Works is out in force patching potholes on major routes like Falulah Street following winter damage.
Worcester Street Sweeping: The City of Worcester begins its residential street sweeping program on Monday, April 6. Residents should check for posted signs to avoid tickets or towing.
Fire Danger Warning: Despite recent improvements in drought conditions, local fire officials in Greater Gardner have issued warnings about high fire danger as the spring brush fire season begins.
Recent Safety & Law Enforcement
Fire Safety Grants: The Healey-Driscoll Administration recently announced $5 million in grant funding for 307 fire departments across Massachusetts to support new safety equipment.
Drug Enforcement: Law enforcement continues to report significant activity in the region, including a recent major fentanyl seizure in Fitchburg involving local and state detectives.
Life Sentence in Fitchburg Home Invasion: A Worcester man was sentenced to life in prison following a conviction for a violent home invasion in Fitchburg.
Westminster Police Shooting: Local authorities are investigating an incident where police shot and killed a suspect in Westminster.
Cyberattack on Emergency Dispatch: The Patriot Regional Emergency Communications Center in Pepperell was hit by a cyberattack, affecting emergency dispatch services for multiple surrounding towns.
Fitchburg Officer Assault: A dirt bike driver was arrested after attacking a police officer at a gas station in Fitchburg.