Town Manager Weekly Update - February 19, 2026
Elaine Lazarus
FY 2027 Town Budget Process
The Town’s budget process for Fiscal Year 2027 (7/1/2026 - 6/30/2027) is underway. At the next two Select Board meetings, the following departments will be presenting their budgets:
- February 24: Accounting, Finance, Town Manager, Senior Services, Community Preservation Committee.
- March 3: Fire, Police, Public Safety Communications, Engineering/Facilities, Public Works, Schools.
Please see the comprehensive budget proposal on the Town website at the 2026 annual town meeting link here: Town Meeting & Budgets
Feedback and comment on the Town budget is encouraged. Please note your thoughts, recommendations and comments about the Town’s budget using this online form: FY27 Budget Listening Form. The Select Board will receive your responses.
If you would prefer to complete a paper form, they are available at the Library and the Senior Center, and collection envelopes are provided. You may also pass along your comments and recommendations to me via email at ela...@hopkintonma.gov. Thank you in advance!
Just a reminder that the Town’s FY27 budget will be voted at the Saturday, May 2 Annual Town Meeting. All registered voters are eligible to vote, and you must be present to vote. Please save the date!
2026 Boston Marathon Events
The Boston Marathon is on April 20 and as always, there will be several events planned in Hopkinton leading up to it. Here are some from the 26.2 Foundation in partnership with the Hopkinton Center for the Arts, with Premier Sponsor Dell Technologies - this year’s The Start of Something Extraordinary - a celebration of art, sport, community, and purpose.
Stories & Songs, a special event
April 2 | HCA
Join us for an unforgettable evening of inspiration and music at Stories and Songs, a special event presented by the 26.2 Foundation and the HCA. Set against the backdrop of the Boston Marathon®, presented by Bank of America, five remarkable marathoners will take the stage to share their personal stories of triumph, resilience, and the power of the human spirit. Each athlete will select a song that reflects their journey, and after their story, a live band will bring that song to life. Come celebrate the intersection of endurance, emotion, and music as we honor the marathon experience in a unique and moving way. Whether you're a marathoner, a music lover, or simply inspired by stories of perseverance, Stories and Songs will leave you uplifted and empowered.
Winged Foot Art Exhibition & Auction
April 4 - April 26 | Hopkinton Town Common
A unique art exhibition and auction of 26 winged feet painted by regional artists with their interpretation of the spirit of the marathon. The exhibition will be on display at the town common from April 4th through the 26th creating a beautiful public art display connecting the community and visitors alike. Be sure to stop by and bid on your favorite!
The stART Line Experience
April 18 - April 26 | Hopkinton Town Common
A self-guided art and education tour of the Marathon Legend sculptures in Hopkinton. Participants download the map and begin at the newly installed, The Girl Who Ran, by Bobbi Gibb, artist and first woman to run the Boston Marathon. From there, they will visit each sculpture and scan a QR code to learn more about the artist and the sculpture. Also included are online coupon codes for discounts at neighboring restaurants.
Marathon Mural
April 4 - April 26 | Hopkinton Public Library
A signature piece celebrating the spirit of the marathon by artist Faith Sycaoyao. This is a photo opportunity that you do not want to miss.
Drought Status
The drought status for most of Massachusetts, including Hopkinton, is Level 2, Significant Drought. Recommended actions for residents and businesses are:
- Minimize overall water use;
- Follow local water use restrictions;
- Fix indoor leaks, such as from toilets, faucets, and showers, which result in more than 60 percent of indoor use; and,
- For larger buildings and businesses, conduct water audits to identify areas of leaks and potential water conservation opportunities.
At this link to the Mass. Dept. of Environmental Protection’s drought management webpage, there’s more information about the Drought Management Task Force, data, and tips, tools, and resources. Drought Status | Mass.gov
Building Dept./Municipal Inspections Office Hours
The Town’s Director of Municipal Inspections/Building Commissioner has open office hours on Tuesdays from 4 pm to 7 pm and Fridays from 9 am to noon at Town Hall. Drop in or call 508-497-9745. The Inspectional Services web page also has a lot of information on permitting, and answers to frequently asked questions. Hopkinton Inspectional Services
Summer Job Opportunities and Spring/Summer Parks and Recreation Programs
Looking for a great summer job? Check out Parks and Recreation open positions by going to the Town website Human Resources Page: Job Postings - Town of Hopkinton
The Spring and Summer Parks & Recreation Activity Guide is at this link: SpringSummerAG_1.25.26.pdf Within these pages, you’ll discover a variety of recreational opportunities designed to inspire, engage, and bring the community together. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, sports leagues, fitness classes, STEM, or cultural programs, there is something for everyone. Registration for Spring and Summer programs is open.
Save the Date - Community Recycling and Reuse Day - Saturday, April 4
Saturday, April 4, 2026 10am-1pm
Marathon School
Rain or Shine
Questions: hopgr...@gmail.com
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