Blandford Select Board Authorizes $7.5 Million Library Expansion Borrowing Warrant

BLANDFORD — November 24, 2025 — Blandford Select Board authorizes $7.5 million library borrowing warrant with no projected tax increase. The board voted unanimously Monday to sign a special town meeting warrant for up to $7,546,161 to fund expansion of the Porter Memorial Library, with the Massachusetts Public Library Construction program guaranteeing $5,479,539 — 75 percent of eligible building costs — once residents vote to accept it at a special town meeting set for December 9. Library Director Nicole told the board the town's own share, originally projected higher, has been reduced to $1,166,622 because the late Sumner W. Robbins left approximately $890,000 in his revocable trust specifically designated for the expansion, with library trustees adding another $10,000. The board also received a presentation from an ad hoc advisory committee on Climate Leader Community designation — which would open municipal grant funding tied to decarbonization commitments — and approved $45,000 in separate spending from a $200,000 solar-bylaw fund to support Planning Board bylaw revision work.