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PODCAST

The Town Crier

Stephanie Lahtinen, Town Administrator

Keeping Westminster informed one episode at a time. Welcome to The Town Crier, Westminster’s official municipal podcast! Hosted by Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen, this podcast brings you the latest town news, upcoming projects, and behind-the-scenes insights straight from the people who help keep Westminster running. Whether you’re curious about town decisions, want to hear from local leaders, or just love staying in the know, The Town Crier is your go-to source for reliable and engaging

government

All Episodes

41:07

Episode 16 - Fall into Town Meeting Season

The Town Crier ·

2025/10/30

It’s that time of year again. Special Town Meeting, trick-or-treat, and plenty happening around Westminster!In this episode, Stephanie breaks down the six articles on the draft November 18th Special Town Meeting warrant, explains common Town Meeting buzzwords (like Free Cash and Stabilization), answers listener questions about the local motel and updated FEMA flood maps, and runs through all the Halloween and community events you won’t want to miss — including the Bonfire at the VFW Field.Do you

en

23:05

Episode 15 - Catching Up and Kicking Off Fall in...

The Town Crier ·

2025/10/09

Thanks for tuning back in after our short hiatus! In this episode, we’re catching up on all the happenings around Westminster over the last six weeks. Stephanie shares updates on the swearing-in of Police Chief Matthew LeMay, the ongoing Old Town Hall restoration, and the MBTA Communities bylaw passing at the September 16, Special Town Meeting.We’ll also cover fall highlights including the 10th Annual Cracker Festival, Halloween festivities, and a preview of the November Special Town Meeting. Plus,

en

67:36

Episode 14 - Heath Director, Abby Conlin

The Town Crier ·

2025/08/28

This week on The Town Crier, Health Director Abby Conlin joins us to cover flu clinics, rodent concerns, home kitchen permitting for local bakers and food enthusiasts, and the everyday permits handled by the Health Department. We also dig into well water vs. town water, Title 5 bedroom rules, the new ADU bylaw, and seasonal reminders on ticks and mosquitoes. Abby shares the latest on PFAS and how residents can get answers to their water quality related questions.We’ll wrap with a summer send-off and

en

21:17

Episode 13 – It’s already August?! and What’s Around...

The Town Crier ·

2025/08/07

Stephanie recaps Summer Rec, previews Benefit Day and the Firefighter Muster, and shares updates on planned MBTA Communities Special Town Meeting, and a little about back-to-school. Notice: Town water users should expect a letter this weekend about elevated TTHMs—contact DPW with questions.Feedback, questions, comments and suggestions for content always welcomed at podcast@westminster-ma.gov

en

39:18

Episode 12 - Master Plan Update & MBTA Communities...

The Town Crier ·

2025/07/24

In this episode, we’re joined by Planning Director Ryan Doherty for an in-depth look at two of big topics in Westminster: the Master Plan Update and the upcoming MBTA Communities zoning article.Ryan walks us through how residents can get involved, key dates, the survey currently underway, and a lot of important details about the MBTA Communities law.We also recap the Fire Department’s 200th anniversary celebration, monument rededication, and recent Select Board updates on the Police Chief hiring

en

37:55

Episode 11 - Dollars and Sense: Understand Your Tax Bill

The Town Crier ·

2025/07/10

Taxes don’t have to be a mystery!In this episode of The Town Crier, Treasurer/Collector Melinda Horrigan joins us to break down how your tax bills are calculated, when and how to pay them, and what to do if you fall behind. We cover real estate taxes, motor vehicle excise tax, online payment options, and common myths residents often have about the process.Plus, Academy Hill Park is officially open! After a soft opening on July 5, families can now enjoy the new climbing structures, slides, and picnic

en

51:03

Episode 10 - Summer Safety: Fire & Police Talk Shop

The Town Crier ·

2025/07/03

Happy Fourth of July, Westminster! In this special holiday episode, Stephanie sits down with Fire Chief Kyle Butterfield and Acting Police Chief Jason Tamulen, for a full rundown of practical tips to keep your family safe this summer. From fireworks rules and backyard fire and water safety, heatwave preparedness, and what to do during large gatherings. Plus, get the latest on, Academy Hill Park soft opening, Woo Sox Town Takeover Night on July 31st, Westminster Town Band summer concerts, Fire

en

24:01

Episode 9 - Me, Myself, and Your Questions

The Town Crier ·

2025/06/12

In Episode 9 of The Town Crier, Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen goes solo to answer a wide range of listener questions. Topics include the town’s fiscal year, Town Meeting basics, cell coverage, and updates on hot topics like the Westminster Country Club, Old Town Hall, and Academy Hill Playground. Stephanie also shares community announcements, including the June 14 Town-Wide Yard Sale and Yankee Street Fair, the August 10 Neighbors Helping Neighbors Benefit Day, and Wyman Lake treatment info

en

31:02

Episode 8 - Memorial Day, Scouts, & Summer Happenings

The Town Crier ·

2025/05/29

In this episode of The Town Crier, we welcome Tyler Careau from Westminster’s own Boy Scout Troop 33. Tyler shares insights into his Eagle Scout journey, past Eagle Scout projects completed in town, the impact of Scouting on local volunteerism and the story behind his Eagle Scout project at the VFW Pavilion.If you’d like more information, Tyler can be reached at vfwpavillioneagle@gmail.com.We also share updates on Adams Street’s 40B project receiving state Project Eligibility, highlight important

en

50:01

Episode 7 – Town Meeting Recap, Playgrounds & Public...

The Town Crier ·

2025/05/15

In this episode of The Town Crier, we break down the results from Westminster’s Annual Town Meeting and Town Election, including voter turnout, key bylaw changes, and capital investments. We reveal the winning name for the new Academy Hill Playground and answer listener questions about what happens to surplus town property like old vehicles and office equipment.Our featured guest is Select Board Clerk Missy Banks, who reflects on her recent re-election, proud moments from her first term, and what

en

61:04

Episode 6 – Roads & Residences

The Town Crier ·

2025/05/01

In this spring update, we dig into two vital town topics. First, DPW Director Josh Hall, joins us to discuss the behind-the-scenes work that keeps Westminster running. From road maintenance, to stormwater management, landfill logistics, and his role as Tree Warden. Then, Caroline Albert, Land Use Administrative Assistant, shares an important update on Westminster’s new senior housing. Learn how to apply, what to expect, and key eligibility requirements. Plus, Town Meeting tips, sustainability

en

45:29

Episode 5 - Community Programs, Parks, & the Upcoming...

The Town Crier ·

2025/04/17

In this episode of The Town Crier, we’re joined by Parks & Rec Chair Alison Hay and Community Services Director Audra Kirtland for a look at everything from summer rec sign-ups and community events to the importance of volunteers in Westminster. Audra also shares insight into her broader role supporting seniors, our volunteer boards, and the South Street Sentinel. Plus, we break down what to expect at the upcoming Special and Annual Town Meetings, including budget highlights, bylaw updates, and

en

36:11

Episode 4 – Behind the Counter with Town Clerk, Ellen...

The Town Crier ·

2025/04/03

In this episode of The Town Crier, Stephanie sits down with Westminster Town Clerk Ellen Sheehan, for an inside look at the many roles her office plays in keeping the town running smoothly. From managing elections and maintaining vital records to issuing dog licenses and preserving local history, Ellen shares stories, surprises, and experience from her time behind the counter. Stephanie also tackles a listener question about the Town Clock—where it is, who maintains it, and a bit of fascinating

en

43:51

Episode 3 - Fire Chief Kyle Butterfield

The Town Crier ·

2025/03/20

In Episode 3, host Stephanie Lahtinen highlights upcoming town events like the Easter Egg Hunt and dog licensing deadlines. In the “Ask the Town” segment, Stephanie answers resident questions about town meeting improvements and village center development. Stephanie also sits down with Fire Chief Kyle Butterfield, to cover fire safety, open burning regulations, and how the Fire Department supports the community. This includes insights on blasting permits and emergency response.

en

44:33

Episode 2 - Select Board Member Mike Cooley

The Town Crier ·

2025/03/07

In Episode 2 of The Town Crier, host Stephanie Lahtinen chats with recently elected Select Board Member Mike Cooley about his background, priorities, and vision for Westminster’s economic development. Stephanie also provides updates on the progress of the Academy Hill playground, budget season discussions, and upcoming community events.

en

5:12

The Town Crier - Episode 1 - Pilot

The Town Crier ·

2025/02/19

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16 results

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