Hanson Select Board votes to oppose MBTA act, opens October warrant

HANSON — July 22, 2025 — Hanson Select Board votes to oppose MBTA Community Act and opens October special town meeting warrant. The board voted unanimously July 22 to authorize Town Administrator Lisa Green to draft a letter for a July 29 state legislative hearing opposing the act, citing the town's lack of municipal sewer, limited infrastructure, and strain on first responders — with all members intending to sign before submission. Select Board Chair Laura FitzGerald-Kemmett noted the Attorney General's office has warned the town it must place an article on the October 6 special town meeting warrant or face action, with department submissions due by August 8. The board also voted to ask the Planning Board to hold a required public hearing on MBTA zoning, and discussed a parallel Chapter 40R overlay district already in development as a potential compliance alternative. In other action, Town Accountant Ken Sharp told the board Camp Kowani is not losing money — fiscal year 2025 revenues came in at approximately $277,000, and Sharp projected roughly $150,000 in certified retained earnings before October town meeting, with a $31,000 draw expected to balance the camp's budget.