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Athol MA Budget and Town Meeting Results

Publisher’s Note: We have elevated this to a front-page story rather than just having it appear on the Athol page because it is a case study which could very well be replicated in the region as other decisions are made.

Athol’s Recent Election and Ramifications

Recent election results in Athol show that residents overwhelmingly rejected two tax override proposals that were intended to fund municipal staff and infrastructure. In addition to these fiscal decisions, voters selected Russell Raymond and Alex Blake, Jr. to fill vacancies on the local Select Board. The regional elections also saw Mitch Grosky secure a position on the school committee.

The Cost of “No”: 4 Surprising Takeaways from Athol’s Recent Election

Introduction: The Small-Town Budget Paradox

Municipalities across the country struggle with a persistent paradox: residents expect high-functioning infrastructure and robust public safety, yet remain deeply resistant to the tax increases required to maintain them. In Athol, this tension recently transitioned from abstract debate to a hard fiscal reality at the ballot box. By deciding the town’s financial future through a direct vote, residents have forced a pivot from growth to contraction. The results offer a stark look at the trade-offs modern towns face when the “cost of no” is finally tallied.

Takeaway 1: The Resounding Rejection of Growth

The most immediate takeaway from the election is the decisive defeat of two Proposition 2 ½ override questions. The margins suggest that voters were not merely skeptical, but fundamentally opposed to the proposed expansions of the municipal tax levy.

Question 1A: Requested $1.8 million to maintain level municipal staffing and existing services. Defeated 1,437 to 427.

Question 1B: Requested $2.9 million for modernization and service maintenance. Rejected 1,624 to 222.

While Question 1A was aimed at maintaining the status quo, the failure of Question 1B highlights a significant “modernization gap.” This measure would have funded critical, professionalized roles: a Human Resources Director, an IT Director, and a Director of Facilities. By rejecting these positions, the electorate has effectively halted the town administration’s efforts to transition toward a more efficient, modern municipal management structure, signaling a preference for leaner, traditional operations over administrative modernization.

Takeaway 2: “Essential” Services are No Longer Sacred

The common assumption that police, fire, and public works are shielded from budget cuts was dismantled by the election results. Town Manager Shaun Suhoski has clarified that the consequence of the funding gap is absolute. Without the override revenue, the town must move immediately into a phase of personnel eliminations that hit the very core of community safety and infrastructure.

The specific departments facing imminent reductions include: Police, Fire, Public Works, and General Government

The administration’s stance reflects a shift from “requesting” to “executing,” as the funding shortfall leaves no room for administrative maneuvering. As Shaun Suhoski stated: “The road ahead encompasses what’s been online and shared publicly for the last eight weeks, in that there will be positions that are eliminated in police, fire, public works and general government.”

Takeaway 3: A Shift Toward “Trimming the Fat”

The election did more than settle the override questions; it established a new Selectboard mandate centered on fiscal restraint. In a crowded five-way race for two seats, Russell Raymond (821 votes) and Alex Blake, Jr. (675 votes) emerged victorious. Both candidates campaigned on a “cuts-first” philosophy that stands in sharp contrast to the town administration’s request for more revenue.

While the Town Manager and his team have already begun the sobering task of structuring the FY27 budget plan to accommodate these defeats, the new Selectboard members are focused on identifying internal efficiencies. Alex Blake, Jr. has indicated a strategy specifically aimed at protecting Emergency Medical Services (EMS) while searching for “fat” to trim in other areas of the budget.

Russell Raymond acknowledged the gravity of the upcoming fiscal year while remaining firm on the voters’ mandate: “I knew this was going to be a tough part of this job if elected… But I’m up for helping Shaun and the rest of the Selectboard come up with those cuts and present a budget that will help us be successful and help out the town. But I was not a big fan of the overrides.”

Takeaway 4: The 20% Influence

From a policy perspective, the election highlights a significant “representative deficit.” While the outcome will fundamentally alter daily life in Athol—affecting everything from emergency response times to road maintenance—only a small fraction of the community participated in the decision.

Out of 9,807 registered voters in Athol, only 1,880 cast ballots. This roughly 20% turnout means a minority of the population has dictated the fiscal policy and service levels for the entire town. This participation crisis was even more evident in the neighboring towns of Royalston and Petersham, where turnout hovered near 11%. This regional trend suggests a disconnect in civic engagement; even when “essential” services are on the chopping block, the vast majority of the electorate remains absent, leaving the town’s fiscal trajectory in the hands of a highly motivated few.

Conclusion: A Policy of Numbers

As Town Manager Suhoski noted, “A budget isn’t really about the numbers, it’s about policy.” The numbers in Athol now dictate a policy of contraction. As the town moves forward with an FY27 budget designed to do “the least harm” while absorbing significant cuts, it serves as a critical case study for other municipalities approaching their own fiscal cliffs.

Athol is entering a period where the theory of fiscal restraint meets the reality of reduced services. It leaves residents with a visceral question to ponder: Is the relief of a lower tax bill worth the tangible loss of the police officers, firefighters, and public works staff who sustain the community’s safety and infrastructure?
Athol – March 2026

For the most complete information and to interact with Athol town government, visit the Town of Athol website, CLICK HERE.

Athol MA March 2026 News Summary

In March 2026, news in Athol, Massachusetts, was dominated by preparations for the April 6 Annual Town Election, specifically focused on two significant tax override questions. More information on the town of athol website: https://athol-ma.gov

Government & Election News

Proposed Budget Overrides: Residents spent the month weighing two separate property tax override questions on the upcoming April ballot. $1.8 Million Override: Passing this would increase the average single-family tax bill by approximately $377.83. $2.9 Million Override: This larger request would result in an average increase of $610.10.

Vote-by-Mail: The town opened applications for mail-in voting for the April 6 election early in the month.

Capital Improvements: The Capital Program Committee backed $807,000 in funding requests for the 2027 fiscal year, including $75,000 for a new DPW pickup truck and roughly $500,000 for a new ambulance for the Athol Fire Department.

Education Negotiations: The Athol-Royalston Regional School District (ARRSD) held executive sessions on March 30 to conduct collective bargaining with the ATA Union.

Community & Local Events

Athol Public Library: The library hosted several regular and special programs throughout March, including a LEGO Club, a Knitting Group, and Chess Club meetings.

High School Events: Athol High School held a Freshmen/Sophomore Dinner Dance on March 28.

River Rat Race Prep: Local businesses showed support for the upcoming River Rat Race, with Cornerstone Bank donating $2,500 toward the event.

Public Safety & Regional Updates

Police Activity: Police logs for late March (March 18–26) noted reports of property damage at the old Morgan Memorial Fresh Air Camp buildings.

Housing Shortage: Regional reports highlighted a critical housing shortage in Western Massachusetts, estimating a need for 23,000 new units to meet progress goals.

High School Sports: In a notable local matchup, the Mahar baseball team rallied from a five-run deficit to defeat Athol.

Coming up in April – in Athol, Massachusetts:

April 2026 in Athol, MA, is highlighted by the return of River Rat Weekend, the town’s most iconic annual tradition featuring canoe races and community festivities. The month also features local elections and a variety of library programs and seasonal workshops. River Rat Weekend (April 11, 2026): This massive regional event includes several key activities: Big Cheese 5K: Starting at 9:30 AM, this family-friendly road race encourages wacky costumes and raises funds for local facility improvements. River Rat Promenade: A parade following the 5K that moves through the center of town. River Rat Race: The main event, an eight-mile canoe race starting at 1:00 PM on the Millers River in Athol and finishing in Orange.

Annual Town Election (April 6, 2026): Registered voters can cast their ballots in person or by mail for available seats on the Selectboard and other town offices.

Athol YMCA Healthy Kids Day (April 18, 2026): A free event at the Athol Area YMCA featuring healthy snacks and activities.

Green Clean Athol (April 18, 2026): A community-wide spring cleaning initiative.

Library & Creative Activities: The Athol Public Library hosts recurring and special programs throughout the month: Tween & Teen Dungeons and Dragons Club: Meets Wednesday, April 1, at 3:30 PM. Genealogy Series (Using DNA): A presentation and conversation on Tuesday, April 7, at 6:00 PM. Knitting Group: A weekly social gathering starting Monday, April 6, at 1:00 PM. April Mystery Discussion: A book club meeting focused on mystery novels on Tuesday, April 14, at 6:00 PM. Paint and Sip Night: Hosted at the North Quabbin Masonic Lodge on Friday, April 17, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Athol – Tool Town page

Athol MA – The Tool Town – History Page

Gardner Magazine has created a special page with numerous infographics, historical narrative, and a “Deep Dive” on Athol, Massachusetts, For the page, CLICK HERE.

TEAM Recognition

Team Excellence and Merit Phillipston Joseph Early s office

TEAM Excellence and Merit Award Given to Local First Responders for Frozen Lake Rescue

Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D Early Jr. has recognized first responders who swift and coordinated actions led to the successful rescue of two adults who fell through the ice on Queen Lake earlier this year. Members of the responding agencies – including Phillipston Fire and EMS, Phillipston Police Department, the Phillipston Highway Department, Templeton Fire and Police Department, and Athol Fire Department– were presented with the District Attorney’s Team Excellence and Merit (TEAM) Award, which recognizes outstanding action and service by those in public safety.

On February 20, 2025, Phillipston Fire and EMS were dispatched to Queen Lake near Lambs Cove after two individuals broke through the ice roughly 100 feet from shore. One of the victims managed to call 911 using their smartwatch, reporting that both were partially atop the ice but unable to move due to rapidly deteriorating conditions.

The responding Phillipston police officer arrived on scene and confirmed visual contact with both victims, who were conscious and alert but still trapped. Within minutes, Phillipston Fire personnel arrived with the department’s ice rescue sled and boat. Two firefighters donned ice rescue suits, tethered themselves to a vehicle on shore, and entered the water with the department’s “banana boat.” Rescuers reached the first victim, pulling them onto solid ice, before moving to the second victim, removing their snowshoes, and securing them onto the rescue sled. Both individuals were safely extricated within seven minutes, with assistance from mutual aid arriving on scene. Templeton Fire paramedics evaluated the victims, who declined transport to the hospital.

“This rescue was a total team effort,” Mr. Early said. “From the 911 call to the rapid arrival of police, fire, and EMS, every part of the response worked exactly as it should. Their training, coordination, and courage prevented a tragedy that day.” Mr. Early commended all agencies involved, noting that their professionalism and teamwork embody the spirit of the TEAM Award. “This rescue was a great team effort between all the responding personnel on that cold winter day. They quickly used ice and rope rescue skills to successfully rescue these two individuals within just seven minutes of being on scene,” said Phillipston Police Chief William Chapman and Phillipston/Athol Fire Department Chief Jeffrey Parker.

The TEAM Award was created by Mr. Early in 2019 to recognize public safety employees who go above and beyond the call of duty. Contact the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office at (508) 755-8601 to nominate someone for this award.

The Team Award was Presented to:

Phillipston Police Department
Officer Jennifer Harding
Phillipston Fire Department
Captain John Seamon, Jr.
FF/EMT Laurie Parker
FF/First Responder Cesar Franco-Uribe

Templeton Police Department
Officer Noah Welch
Templeton Fire Department
FF/Paramedic Kyle Daniels
FF/Paramedic Andrew Francis

Athol Fire Department
Chief Jeffrey Parker
Captain Jamal Hamilton
Captain Andy Soltysik
FF/EMT Bruce Dubrule
FF/EMT Owen Anderholm

Templeton Regional Dispatch
Dispatcher Ariana Deery
Dispatcher Eric Baker

Phillipston Highway Department
Highway Superintendent Rick Tenney
Highway Worker Scott Boutwell

New Patients

Auto Draft

Heywood Healthcare Releases List of Physicians Accepting New Patients

If you’re looking for a physician for any reason, the list in the graphic might be of help. Just click the image for a larger view. Heywood Healthcare publicized this list of physicians in the region who are accepting new patients. Here’s a printable pdf of the graphic at left.

Sometimes you’ll need a very specific provider for a specific need. Heywood also advises the public that it has a very useful tool: a provider search engine on its website. Here’s the direct link, CLICK HERE.

If you’d like the information by making a phone call, you can also call the Physician referral line at (978) 630-6248.
Heywood – Forward 2025

Normalcy Fully Arrives – Heywood Healthcare Looking Forward to 2025

After its unprecedented and highly praised independent emergence from Chapter 11 in 2024, Heywood Hospital now has a year of normalcy ahead. Heywood Healthcare will now be able to participate in normal audits, will not have a court looking at every speck of dust on the floor, and will not be tangled up with prior contemplated transactions. Heywood Hospital’s Lachance Maternity Care unit will most likely deliver more babies than ever before as some patients are also coming from the Fitchburg – Leominster area. With the Mental Health Unit fully operational again, the hospital will have a full year of helping those who need them the most. During 2024, the hospital was actually adding to its staff and is expected to post additional positions in 2025.

Heywood Stands Out From the Pack

Heywood Healthcare stands out from the pack. While some hospitals were actually fined for failing to provide audited financials, Heywood was not fined as it was proactively addressing financial issues in its Chapter 11 process. See State Report, CLICK HERE. Re audits from State, CLICK HERE.

Heywood provided us with a history of the process and a positive look to 2025 in a statement: “”Heywood and Athol hospitals were not able to provide audited financial statements for the years 2021 through 2023 due to a failed EMR transition initiated in February 2021. The hospitals’ EMR was integrated with the system’s revenue cycle, compromising the overall financial performance and records. This was one of the several contributing factors to the system filing for Chapter 11 protection on October 1, 2023, following a transition in key leadership.

Though the system was unable to provide audited financials, unaudited internal financial reports, and any other obtainable operational data were made available to state officials and regulatory agencies prior to the filing of Chapter 11, and the organization maintained transparency throughout the bankruptcy process.

Following a year of restructuring efforts, on September 30, 2024, the system successfully and independently exited Chapter 11, marking a significant step forward in its financial recovery and operational stability. The system will be filing FY25 audited financials, the first post-bankruptcy year.” – Rozanna Penney, President and CEO

What is an EMR?

Dawn Casavant of Heywood Healthcare was kind enough to explain: “An EMR (electronic medical record) system is a system that stores all aspects of patient care, including clinical documentation and claims data which is fully integrated with the hospitals’ operations and financial systems. Heywood Healthcare underwent a transition from Meditech Magic to Meditech Expanse in 2021. The transition was sub-optimal disrupting the system’s revenue cycle and financial reporting capabilities. “
Heywood Stakeholder Meeting

Listen to the Stakeholder Meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Heywood Stakeholder Meeting 10-3-24

Heywood Healthcare Holds Stakeholder Meeting and Moves to Next Chapter

The October 3, 2024 meeting concerned the road forward for Heywood Healthcare as it exited Chapter 11 on September 30^th. It was noted that Heywood achieved what only 5 percent of similar healthcare systems are able to do – coming out of bankruptcy as a stand-alone organization.

Dawn Casavant, Vice President Heywood Healthcare

MC was Dawn Casavant who introduced everyone and later spoke about Heywood’s Community Services. Speakers were: Heywood President and CEO Rozanna Penney, Undersecretary Chris Harding of EOHHS , Kirby Lecey Division of Community Health, Jake Mastrandrea, Outreach Director for Congresswoman Lori Trahan, State Senator Peter Durant, State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik, – President of the Health and Hospital Association Steve Walsh, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, and Chairman of the Heywood Board of Directors Robert Chauvin. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Heywood Stakeholder Meeting 10-3-24

Heywood Healthcare is stronger with less debt, restructured commitments to achieve savings, and renegotiated payor agreements. During the next 6 months, Heywood is expected to negotiate a successful agreement with the developers regarding the incomplete Surgical Pavilion. During the past year, Heywood has added medical professionals and staff with a total of 100 new hires. It has made investments in the Obstetrics Infrastructure and restored the Mental Health Unit to full capacity. Heywood’s deep engagement with the community was also highlighted with 30 employees dedicated to delivering services outside the hospital walls such as school-based health centers, telebehavioral health services, and a myriad of community programs.
Cleanout Kings

Spring Means Clean Out – These Guys are the Kings

We keep seeing information about Cleanout Kings on Facebook, so our curiosity got the best of us. We interviewed Eric Olson, the Cleanout King at Cleanout Kings. Apparently, they do small jobs to big jobs. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY

Olson explained how empathy is important in his business as sometimes he deals with hoarders. Olson stated, “I started my business three years ago. We do junk removal, everything from single item pickup all the way up to commercial cleanouts. We also specialize in hoarding situations and deal with estate sale or estate cleanouts.” All of his reviews on Google are 5 star, the best you can get. This may be why as he stated, ” We try to be as understanding as we can and try to guide people and work with them even if it takes a while and we have to really be patient.“

Contact information: Facebook, CLICK HERE. Telephone: (978) 790-5081 SPRING FLYER, CLICK HERE.
Athol 2-17-24

Athol MA Proud of Its Water and the Community – Athol Update

Upcoming election information: Presidential Primary information and information on the Annual Town Election April 1, 2024. Complete Upcoming Athol Election information on printable pdf, CLICK HERE.

Athol January Properties for Sale Report, CLICK HERE for pdf. For lease report, CLICK HERE . Athol document on why I should locate a business in Athol, CLICK HERE.

The Waterwise Newsletter of April 2023 is prominently showcased on the website of the town of Athol. In it, Athol beams with pride over its water stating, “The Super Says….Drink Athol’s water: it’s better than bottled.” Read the 8 page Waterwise Newsletter on pdf, CLICK HERE.

The town of Athol has every reason to be proud as it won recognition in a Taste Test. Second Place was awarded to Athol on September 14, 2022 in the Seventeenth Annual Water Taste Competition by the Rural Water Association.

Here is a convenient Government Contacts Directory for the town of Athol, CLICK HERE.
Athol Election

Nomination papers are available for the April 1, 2024 Annual Town Election. Nomination papers are available in the town office. Deadline to return nomination papers is Monday, February 12 by 5pm. For more details, CLICK HERE.