September 30, 2025

Pumpkin Season

Top o’ the Morning to... BOO!

Hello Chelmsford! October is knocking on our door, bringing crisp air and pumpkin spice everything. The leaves are starting to turn golden, and our community is buzzing with fall festivities – from seasonal concerts and Halloween-themed karaoke nights to preparations for upcoming holiday traditions. As we enjoy the last days of September and welcome October, there’s plenty of news and events to share. Like a hearty stew, let’s dive into this week's ghoul-lash of what’s happening around town!

Upcoming Local Events

• Wed, Oct 1: LGBT History Month (October 1–31) – Town-wide recognition of LGBTQ+ history and rights, with educational displays and events throughout the month.
• Fri, Oct 3, 7:00 PM: CCA Karaoke Night – Halloween Edition at Chelmsford Center for the Arts. Sing your heart out (in costume!) at this monthly karaoke night. $5 entry; cash bar available.
• Sat, Oct 4, 7:00 PM: Junie’s Place Third Annual Gala at Chelmsford Center for the Arts. A fundraising gala (theme: “Iconic Couples & Crews for a Cause”) supporting local grief support programs. Tickets $60 (available via the CCA website).
• Mon, Oct 6: World Cerebral Palsy Day – An international day of awareness. Learn how our community can support those affected by cerebral palsy.
• Fri, Oct 10, 7:00 PM: Sober Karaoke Night at Chelmsford Center for the Arts. A substance-free karaoke event presented by the Health Department – free entry with mocktails, pizza, and fun for all ages.
• Sat, Oct 11, 6:30 AM: Fall Leaf & Brush Pickup – Curbside pickup of leaves and brush (have yard debris at the curb by 6:30 AM on your regular trash day this week).
• Sat, Oct 11, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration at Chelmsford Town Common. Join the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee for cultural performances, a generational panel discussion, informational tables, and kids’ activities in celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

School News

• Chelmsford High School hosted a Student Leadership Conference on Sept 25, bringing together student leaders for a day of team-building and skill development.
• The Chelmsford High Theatre Guild announced the cast for its fall musical, “Oklahoma!” – stay tuned for show dates and come support our young performers.
• Six Chelmsford High seniors were honored as the September Students of the Month, recognized for outstanding academic and community achievements.

Local Politics

Road Work Alert: Road work is scheduled on Ansie Road and Lauderdale Road (beginning Monday, Sept 29) and on Reid Road and Oak Street (beginning Tuesday, Sept 30). Residents should mark or remove any personal items (like sprinkler heads or fencing) within the town right-of-way to prevent damage. Access to these roads will be maintained, but expect minor delays at times. Contact the DPW (978-250-5228 ext. 3351) with any questions.

Fall Town Meeting: Chelmsford’s Fall Annual Town Meeting is set for Monday, October 20 at 7:30 PM. Town representatives will gather to vote on local issues and budgets. All residents are welcome to attend or watch via Chelmsford TeleMedia to stay informed on the decisions shaping our town.

Committee Meetings

• Tue, Sep 30 – Holiday Decorating Committee (Town Offices, Rm 200)
• Thu, Oct 2 – Cemetery Commission (Town Hall)
• Thu, Oct 2 – Zoning Board of Appeals (Town Offices, Rm 204)
• Mon, Oct 6 – Select Board (Town Offices, Rm 204)
• Tue, Oct 7 – Board of Health (Town Offices, LL06)
• Wed, Oct 8 – Planning Board (Town Offices, Rm 204)

Business Spotlight

Age-Friendly Initiative: Chelmsford’s Age-Friendly Implementation Committee continues to drive efforts that make our town more livable for residents of all ages. A recent spotlight video showcased discussions on Social Security and AARP, highlighting how town officials, staff, residents, and local businesses are collaborating to implement Chelmsford’s Age-Friendly Action Plan and promote healthy aging.

Tax Exemptions: The Town reminds residents that several property tax exemption programs are available for those who qualify in the current tax year (July 2025 – June 2026). Eligible categories include seniors (age 70+), surviving spouses, and disabled veterans. Applicants should be prepared to show last year’s tax return (or an IRS verification of non-filing if you don’t file taxes). For more information or assistance with applications, contact the Assessors Office.

Voter Registration: With local elections and Town Meeting on the horizon, note that the deadline to register to vote is 20 days before any election or regular Town Meeting (and 10 days before a Special Town Meeting). You can register or check your voter status online, by mail, or in person at the Town Clerk’s office.

Beach Season Ends: Chelmsford’s public beach season has officially ended. Lifeguard coverage at Heart Pond and Freeman Lake concluded back in late June, so any off-season swimming is at your own risk. (Recent water testing at Freeman Lake showed bacteria levels above recommended limits, so please use caution.)

Public Health Updates

Flu Clinic: The Chelmsford Health Department will host a Family Flu Vaccine Clinic on Monday, October 14. All residents are encouraged to get their annual flu shot. Check the Health Department page on the town website for clinic hours, location, and how to pre-register.

Stay Informed: Keep up with upcoming health programs and clinics by joining the Health Department’s mailing list. You can sign up via the town website to receive email updates on public health initiatives, wellness events, and more.