Submitted by the office of
Matthew Coogan,
Town Administrator, Boxford
The Town of Boxford will hold a Special Town Meeting on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 7:00 PM in the Masconomet High School Auditorium. The warrant contains eight articles, several of which require action before the end of the year, including a proposed zoning bylaw needed to maintain the Town’s compliance with state MBTA Communities law.
All meeting materials—including the full warrant, article summaries, and background information—are available at: www.boxfordma.gov/SpecialTownMeeting2025
One of the most significant items on the warrant is Article 8, proposing an MBTA Communities overlay zoning district to bring Boxford into compliance with the MBTA Communities Law (G.L. c. 40A, §3A). Under state law, all MBTA communities must adopt compliant zoning by December 31, 2025.
Select Board Chair Chuck Costello emphasized the importance of Article 8 and what it means for Boxford’s rural character and financial stability.
“Article 8 represents an important decision point for our community. The proposed overlay district complies with the MBTA Communities Law while carefully minimizing any potential for development, preserving Boxford’s rural character. Remaining in compliance also protects the Town from significant financial consequences, including the loss of current and future state grants. This decision has long-term implications for the character of Boxford, and it is essential that it be considered and decided by the full community, not just the Select Board. We encourage residents to learn about the proposal and participate in this important vote.”
The financial implications of compliance are significant. Boxford currently has over $1.2 million in state-awarded grants at risk, including infrastructure and education funding. Looking ahead, the Town estimates that approximately $3 to $5 million in future grant opportunities could be jeopardized over the next five years if the Town becomes non-compliant.
Finance Committee Chair Michael White highlighted the impact of non-compliance.
“Non-compliance with the MBTA Communities Law carries significant fiscal consequences. Boxford has over a million dollars in existing state grants that could be lost, and roughly $5 million in future grants—supporting culverts, bridges, roadwork, education, and resilience projects—could also be at risk. If these funds go away, the costs shift directly to local taxpayers.”
Town Administrator Matthew Coogan underscored the importance of public participation in this off-cycle meeting.
“Special Town Meeting is when residents come together to make decisions that directly shape the future of town. With eight important articles before voters—including one that determines Boxford’s compliance with state law—it is vital that residents attend and make their voices heard on December 17.”
Residents are encouraged to attend the Moderator’s Public Forum on Monday, December 8th at 7:00 PM at Town Hall, where the Town Moderator will review each of the eight warrant articles.
Special Town Meeting Details
Date: Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Masconomet High School Auditorium
www.boxfordma.gov/SpecialTown
Meeting2025
For additional information, please contact the Town Administrator’s Office at (978) 887-6000.
