Devens housing working group seeks public comment
The Devens Working Group is collecting comments from members of the public regarding opportunities for additional housing in Devens. Interested parties may submit comments by completing a form at https://devensworkinggroup.formstack.com/forms/devens_working_group_pu
Leaving snow and ice on public ways prohibited
The Department of Public Works reminds residents that there are town bylaws about snow and ice removal, and to pass this information to plowing contractors. Chapter 96, section 96-3, prohibits leaving snow and ice on public ways and impeding the flow of traffic. Chapter 96, section 96-4, prohibits vehicle parking on public ways in a manner that hinders snow and ice removal. Contact DPW Director David Smith at 978-456-4130 with questions.
Devens housing community team seeks resident feedback
A subcommittee of the Devens housing working group seeks input from area residents regarding the construction of additional housing in the area known as the Innovation and Technology Center District, a location that includes Vicksburg Square. Appointed by Secretary of Economic Development Yvonne Hao, the team’s four members represent the select boards of Ayer, Harvard, and Shirley, and the Devens Committee, which represents Devens residents. The team met for the first time Feb. 6 and will meet again Feb. 24, before reporting the subcommittee’s findings to the Devens housing working group Feb. 25. Residents living in Ayer, Devens, Harvard, or Shirley are urged to send their written comments, concerns, and ideas directly to any of the community team members:
- Shaun Copeland, Ayer: sccopeland@ayer.ma.us
- Laura Scott, Devens: scottljusa@yahoo.com
- SusanMary Redinger, Harvard: sredinger01451@gmail.com
- Bryan Hildebrant, Shirley: bhildebrant@gmail.com
Hazardous waste collection
The Devens Regional Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center will receive hazardous waste Wednesday, March 5, and Saturday, March 8, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 9 Cook Street (rear), Devens. Closed during rain; reopens when rain stops. For information on items accepted, packaging, and fees, visit DevensHHW.com.
Fall kindergarten enrolling
Kindergarten enrollment at Hildreth Elementary School is now open for Harvard and Devens children turning 5 years old on or before Aug. 31. Enrollment is online, and the deadline is March 31. A link is on the enrollment tab at hildreth.psharvard.org. For more information, contact Jessica Reynolds at jreynolds@psharvard.org.
HCC awards grants to local cultural programs
The Harvard Cultural Council, a volunteer committee that is part of a network of local councils across Massachusetts funded by the Mass Cultural Council, has announced its fiscal 2025 grant awards. HCC awarded a total of $6,200 in grants to these local recipients: Bolton and Harvard Open Studios, Jeffrey Boudreau, Clear Path for Veterans New England, Discovery Museum, Bob Eiland, Groton Hill Music, Harvard Historical Society, Harvard Public Library, Harvard’s Cultural Collaborative, Open Door Theater of Acton, Steve Peisch, The Cannon Theatre, The Delvena Theatre Company, The Harvard Town Band, Town of Harvard, and Virginia Thurston Healing Garden. Details are at massculturalcouncil .org/local-council/harvard.
Tom Denney Camp registration open
Registration is open for the Tom Denney Nature Camp in Bolton. The camp is for students entering kindergarten through high school. Activities include swimming, games, arts and crafts, hiking, exploring, campfires, and building shelters. Six weekly sessions run from June 30 to Aug. 8, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; before- and after-work child care is available. Visit tomdenneynaturecamp.org to learn more and register, or email bcttdnc@gmail.com with questions.
REAL ID deadline
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles reminds residents that beginning May 7, 2025, anyone traveling by plane domestically or entering certain federal building areas will need a Registry-issued REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID, or a valid passport. Commonwealth-issued documents may be renewed up to one year in advance of the expiration date printed on the license or ID. For additional information visit mass.gov/rmv.
