by Bill Tobin
4/4/2017

The Board of Selectmen discussed the attributes of each candidate and all agreed that it was a difficult decision as all three had great merit. It is an important position that must be taken seriously. The three interviewed had been selected by local citizen committees and a professional assessment center from over 30 applicants. The three finalists are all members of the Holliston Police Department. All would make a good chief with different styles. 

Each candidate was reviewed for initiatives such as ideas to make a stronger department, coming up with new and creative ways to solve problems, and plans for more community involvement. The selectmen went over their notes and discussed the leadership experiences of the candidates and the decisions each have made in their respective roles as police officers. All three officers were recognized for their excellent interviews and resumes.

After much discussion, two candidates were recommended, Lt. David Gatchell and Sgt. Matthew Stone.  A motion was made to elect Sgt. Stone, and the vote of the Selectmen was two for Stone and one opposed. Sgt. Stone is now Chief Stone. Congratulations Chief Stone.

A  major topic was marijuana. Neighboring towns have voted on whether any marijuana retail recreational marijuana shops will be allowed. The selectmen are pondering about adding that subject to the warrant of the upcoming town meeting on May 10th. Holliston has approved the cultivation of medical marijuana only, with no retail allowed.

A walk through by 17 contractors who have bid on the destruction of the Flagg School. August 31st is the set date that the school must be destroyed and removed.

The Andrews School future is still unknown. There have been no bids. It may be declared as surplus property that would permit an auction. Under the recent zone changes, a duplex could be built on the site.