Canton, Massachusetts · Saved source text
Canton Annual Town Report — 2025
Saved text from 153 source pages. Transcription and OCR may contain errors; verify figures and wording against the original. Retrieved 2026-10-18.
Source page 41
Report of the
LIBRARY
Joan Schottenfeld, Chair 786 Washington St.
Nancy Connery, Vice-Chair Canton, MA 02021
Christine Untersee, Secretary Telephone 781-821-5027
calib@ocln.org
Andrea J. Capone, Library Director
Hours of Service: Monday 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Tuesday through Thursday 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Friday & Saturday 10:00
AM to 5:30 PM. Service hours subject to change due. Please check our website for the most current hours of operation.
The Canton Public Library was once again led by a very dedicated 9-member Board of Trustees. Joan Schottenfeld served as
chair of the board, and Nancy Connery served as vice chair. Janet Chamberlain served as liaison to the Friends of the Library.
Christine Untersee served as secretary.
The library staff saw significant change in 2025. Circulation Supervisor Bonnie Jette, Children’s Librarian Ann Woodman, and
Children’s Associate Liz Kiely all retired after 11, 40, and 35 years, respectively. Longtime Community Outreach Librarian
Carolyn Elkort took over for Bonnie in Circulation and as the administrator of the library’s Passport Acceptance Program.
Alise Jansen (Circulation Technician), Rubiyah Isa (Young Adult Associate), and Stephanie Young (Community Outreach
Librarian), all joined the team. The newly created position of Assistant Library Director was filled by Young Adult Services
Librarian Rosie Moore.
In 2025, only 5 staff members executed the 1046 passports applied for at our facility.
Library Director Capone represented our library as a member of the Old Colony Library Network. The number of active
library card holders increased more than 11% to 9550. Circulation of physical materials increased by another 5%, which has
been a consistent rate for the past several years. The demand for Ebooks and digital media content also continued to increase.
In 2025, despite a decrease in funding previously available through the federal government, the Canton Public Library
continued to offer excellent digital resources through subscriptions to Ancestry, Kanopy, Acorn Films, OverDrive, Hoopla,
the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and other online databases. This dedication to providing diverse reading options
and information access reflects the library’s commitment to accommodating the needs and preferences of the entire
community.
Once again, the library served as a place where community members of all ages, with an incredibly wide array of interests,
needs, and abilities, could gather together to learn and grow. All 592 library events continue to be available to all patrons at no
cost. Regularly occurring programs included book clubs, author talks, arts and crafts, gaming (including board games, virtual
reality, and other video games), Lego club, cooking classes, informational and educational seminars, STEM activities, and
opportunities for relaxation and stress relief. Special events included goat yoga, the yearly Summer Reading Kick-off Party, a
panel discussion about censorship during Banned Books Week, and a presentation celebrating the anniversary of Jane Austen’s
250th birthday. Partnerships with town organizations including CDEI, CAASA, and the MOMS Club made it possible for us
to participate in many cultural celebrations such as Lunar New Year, black history month presentations, Rosh Hashanah,
Diwali, and even Beltane, an ancient Celtic summer festival. More than 12,000 people attended library events in 2025. Even
more of our patrons were served outside of the library walls at the Canton Farmers Market and in the public schools.
On Saturday, November 22, many members of the library community, town government, and citizens of the town of Canton
gathered at the library to celebrate the groundbreaking for the construction of the library park on our front lawn on
Washington Street. Everyone is looking forward to the exciting improvements being made to the physical building over the
past years and in the future. The first batch of funding for the upcoming interior renovation project was approved at Annual
Town Meeting in May.
Programming for children, teenagers, and families particularly benefitted from our partnership with CAASA (Canton Alliance
Against Substance Abuse). Beginning in June, support from CAASA allowed the library to provide several monthly programs
for young people and their families related to science, nature, art, and mental wellness. Middle and high school students are
able to come to the library on half-days to enjoy snacks and gaming. Some of these programs have been attended by more
than 100 residents. We would like to acknowledge CAASA Director Izzy Nolan for her invaluable contribution to the service
we were able to provide to middle and high school students this year.
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The Friends of the Library continued to support library programming through fundraising and coordinating volunteers. Some
of the most fun and lucrative fundraising events spearheaded by the Friends this year were the returning Comedy Night, the
2nd Annual Library 5K and Fun Run, and 1920s themed speakeasy party. The library extends our sincerest thanks to President
Bill Quinn and all the Friends, whose support is vital to the library’s success. Emily Prigot managed the Open Book
Coffeehouse, now in its 17th season. Once again, Kevin Boyce managed the Canton Writes 16th annual writing competition,
which received 220 entries from kids to adults in different categories, including fiction, nonfiction/memoir, and poetry.
The Library met State Certification Standards at the highest level, and received a State Aid Award of $62,295.58. This money
was mostly used to supplement our programming and materials budgets.
We gratefully acknowledge the generosity of the Canton Art Association, the MOMS Club, and the Lions’ Club. Thanks to the
Canton Cultural Council for their support of popular programs and events.
We also acknowledge the dedication of our library staff, who serve every individual with care and respect, and we value the
strong spirit of teamwork across all town departments. Finally, we thank our patrons for their encouragement and constructive
feedback, and we always welcome public participation as we continue working to better serve our community.
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Report of the
MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION COMMITTEE
Emilio E. Mauro, Jr., Finance Committee (MPIC Chair) 801 Washington St.
Margaret Mead, Citizen-At-Large (MPIC Vice Chair) Canton, MA 02021
Patricia Boyden, Select Board Telephone: 781-821-501
Sonja Grauds, School Committee mpic@town.canton.ma.us
Bob MacDonald, Conservation Commission www.cantonmasterplan.com
Janice McCarthy, Playground and Recreation Commission
Michael Nourse, Historical Commission
Jim Quigley, Planning Board
Alan Rapoport, Economic Development Committee
Connor Murphy, Town Planner / Committee Staff
MISSION
The Canton Master Plan Implementation Committee (MPIC) was established by the Select Board to coordinate the effort of
implementing the Town of Canton Master Plan and it started meeting in February 2021. The current Master Plan was
developed through a process that began through action at the Annual Town Meeting in 2017 that funded the update of the
Master Plan, which was then led by the Master Plan Steering Committee and the hired consulting firm of Horsley Witten to
reach out to all stakeholders in town to complete the fifteen-year Master Plan that was approved by the Planning Board in
2020. The goal of creating the Master Plan itself was to evaluate existing conditions at the time of the plan's creation, identify
needs in town, recommend actions that could help meet those needs, and identify parties who could be responsible for
implementing those actions. The MPIC has been working with responsible parties to both raise awareness about the plan and
to advance the recommendations and goals of the Master Plan through education, coordination, collaboration, and
cooperation between these ultimately responsible departments, boards, and committees.
The vision expressed in the Master Plan covers most aspects of life in Canton. This long-range vision built by the entire
community can lead to great achievements by 2035. This includes what housing is available in town and what the town’s
neighborhoods look like. The Master Plan has recommendations for how the Town should address public health issues and
foster social well-being. There are goals on how to improve all town services to meet the needs of a diverse public while
including all residents and stakeholders in Town decisions. There are guidelines on how to promote economic development in
ways that make Canton competitive and prosperous while also meeting the needs of the workforces and consumers in town.
There are actions to help encourage and expand access to parks, open spaces, and other recreational facilities in Town for all
residents. The plan provides steps on how to develop safe and accessible multimodal neighborhood, town-wide, and regional
connectivity in transportation that serve all residents and commuters well. It supports the protection of historical resources
and encourages the community to foster the arts and support diverse cultures in town to build a more robust community. It
also provides guidance to preserve the town’s ecosystems and landscapes through wise environmental stewardship. It will help
ensure that Canton is ready to adapt to changing needs in energy and sustainability as growing natural hazards arise brought on
by climate change. The Master Plan identifies special focus areas (Canton Junction, Downtown Canton, and Route 138) where
many Master Plan goals can be realized together. The plan has a wide range of diverse goals and it will take all stakeholders in
Canton, whether public government, commercial entities, organizations, or private residents to help implement the plan
through awareness, advocacy, and policy choices. The MPIC has the responsibility of bringing a wide range of groups together
to advance these goals and implementation is ongoing.
The nine-member MPIC is composed of members from eight different town boards and committees. The committee is
constituted to also have a place for a citizen-at-large as its ninth member to ensure a stronger voice for residents.
2025 COMMITTEE ACTION
The MPIC met approximately every other month via Zoom in 2025 and it has continued the process of meeting or working
with featured guest department heads, boards, committees, or other stakeholder or advocates and has had productive
meetings, along with the important work of updating the Action Plan of the 2020 Canton Master Plan.
At its June 2025 meeting, the committee welcomed new Town Planner Connor Murphy as its new staff member and have
been working very closely with him since his hiring by the Town as Town Planner. The MPIC would also like to thank former
Town Planner Taylor Torres for his many contributions to Canton as Town Planner and his work as the MPIC staff member
from 2023-2025.
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The primary focus of the MPIC in 2025 was to update the 2020 Canton Master Plan’s Action Plan. 2025 was a milestone year
for the Master Plan as it marked the fifth year in the fifteen-year life of the document. To ensure that the Master Plan remains
a living and evolving document for its full useful life, the MPIC was committed to hiring a consultant to review the Action
Plan, which is the part of the Master Plan that has action items drawn from the findings and recommendations of the Master
Plan Roadmap and sets time frames and responsible parties for implementation. The Action Plan is also used to generate the
Strategic Framework document that the MPIC also regularly uses. To this goal, the MPIC sponsored Article 20 at the 2025
Annual Town Meeting, which allocated $15,000 to be used to hire a consultant to review and update the Action Plan of the
Master Plan. The MPIC was very grateful to the Town Meeting voters for approving that article and allowing the project to
advance. Led by our Town Planner Connor Murphy, the consulting firm of Horsley Witten was hired to undertake the review
process. An Action Plan Update Working Group (consisting of MPIC Chair Emilio Mauro, MPIC Vice Chair Margaret Mead,
MPIC member Patricia Boyden, and MPIC member Jim Quigley) started working with Mr. Murphy and our Horsley Witten
consultant (Krista Moravec) to review existing action items, the time frames for implementation of those actions, and the
responsible parties assigned to take the lead on implementation of those goals. The working group received written reports
from the current lead responsible parties regarding the progress and status of the current action items. This information was
very helpful to understand what has been completed, what is ongoing, and what obstacles some stalled actions faced. The
members of the working group went through each action item in the Action Plan with Mr. Murphy and our consultant. At
their meetings, the working group considered the reports they received from the lead responsible parties. The group then
discussed the status of each action item and determined whether any changes to the language of each action item were needed,
whether the time frames for that implementation were reasonable, and if the designated responsible parties were still
appropriate as assigned. In addition, identifying what action items were completed, no longer relevant, or required next steps
were also considered. This process was still ongoing at year’s end and will continue into early 2026. It is currently hoped that
the process will be completed by the end of February 2026, with the full MPIC recommending this update to the Action Plan,
the Select Board having an opportunity to review it, and the Planning Board having the final ability to approve it.
In 2025, those attending as guests or presenters included leaders (or other representatives of), Executive Department,
Economic Development Committee, Canton Public Library, and Sustainability and Climate Action Plan Committee. In
addition, the MPIC regularly worked with the Town Planner (as its staff member).
The MPIC also engaged in some outreach on behalf of the committee by participating in the Canton Heritage Festival on May
17, 2025. The MPIC had a table in the community tent where visitors were educated about the Master Plan while also being
given an opportunity to provide public feedback and suggestions. Ensuring that the public understands the Master Plan and
has regular opportunities to provide input in the process, is an important component of implementation.
The MPIC also supported Town Meeting Warrant Articles that were consistent with the goals of the Master Plan. The
committee supported several successful Articles at the 2025 Annual Town Meeting held in May 2025. This included the library
interior repairs and renovation project (Article 13, Motion 4). In addition, several zoning articles were supported by the MPIC.
This included new language for the Flood Plain Overlay District to ensure continued compliance with FEMA regulations and
Town participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (Annual Town Meeting Article 28, and further amended at an
August 2025 Special Town Meeting). The committee also supported some necessary changes to definitions, changes to the
Table of Use Regulations, the deletion of obsolete language, and updates to the Zoning Map related to the Zoning By-laws
(Articles 29, 30, 34, and 35 respectively). Another zoning article (Article 31) added mixed-use definitions for the Central
Business District and other Business districts in Canton that helps define future mixed-use development in those areas of
Town that include the Downtown and Route 138 Focus Areas. Article 32 was also supported by the MPIC and it involved the
adoption of design standards for Canton Center that were recommended by the 2023 Metropolitan Area Planning Council
Downtown Canton Report, which addressed many issues in the Downtown as a Master Plan Focus Area. Likewise, a
conditional height exception for four story buildings in the Central Business District (Article 33) was supported as consistent
with the Master Plan.
The MPIC also authorized the Chair to write two letters of support for Community Preservation Act funding applications in
September 2024 that were being considered by the Canton Community Preservation Committee (CCPC) for approval at the
2025 Annual Town Meeting for Fiscal Year 2026. The two projects, among others, were eventually recommended by the
CCPC for approval by the May 2025 Annual Town Meeting and were then approved by Town Meeting as part of Article 15.
The two MPIC supported projects were the restoration of the historic rooms of the Canton Public Library and funding for an
update of the Open Space and Recreation Master Plan. These two projects were consistent with the Canton Master Plan by
promoting historical preservation and improving public services (in the case of the historic rooms of the Canton Public
Library) and by encouraging conservation, environmental stewardship, and outdoor recreation (through an updated Open
Space and Recreation Plan).
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The MPIC has also monitored the progress of a wide range of ongoing activities in Canton. These included the development
of the Climate Action Plan, the Americans with Disabilities Act Transition Plan, the ongoing efforts to determine a long-term
reuse for the property at 1860 Washington Street, small business grants, transit oriented development (TOD) associated with
the new Canton Junction Overlay District, the process to update the Open Space and Recreation Master Plan, the Municipal
Vulnerability Preparedness 2.0 grant program, among several other activities and issues that the MPIC, or Chair of the MPIC,
either monitored or was updated on during the year.
Like many Town committees, the MPIC meetings were aired and streamed online through Canton Community Television and
this has allowed the committee to reach a larger number of members of the community and raise greater awareness for the
Master Plan and the issues being discussed. The committee is appreciative that this outreach medium is available.
The Chair acknowledges the volunteer committee members that make up the MPIC for being committed to the goal of
promoting the Master Plan and for the thoughtfulness and dedication that they have brought to committee meetings. These
meetings have succeeded in allowing responsible parties identified in the Master Plan to discuss shared priorities with
individuals representing a cross-section of Town boards and committees. It has also allowed the MPIC to, at times, act as a
The MPIC has also monitored the progress of a wide range of ongoing activities in Canton. These included the development
forum to discuss ideas orClimate
of the proposals related
Action Plan, to Master
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Act Transition keep
Plan, the theefforts
ongoing Master Plan arelevant
to determine long-term and contemporary.
reuse for the property at 1860 Washington Street, small business grants, transit oriented development (TOD) associated with
These efforts will continue going forward.
the new Canton Junction Overlay District, the process to update the Open Space and Recreation Master Plan, the Municipal
Vulnerability Preparedness 2.0 grant program, among several other activities and issues that the MPIC, or Chair of the MPIC,
either monitored or was updated on during the year.
Like many Town committees, the MPIC meetings were aired and streamed online through Canton Community Television and
this has allowed the committee to reach a larger number of members of the community and raise greater awareness for the
Master Plan and the issues being discussed. The committee is appreciative that this outreach medium is available.
The Chair acknowledges the volunteer committee members that make up the MPIC for being committed to the goal of
promoting the Master Plan and for the thoughtfulness and dedication that they have brought to committee meetings. These
meetings have succeeded in allowing responsible parties identified in the Master Plan to discuss shared priorities with
individuals representing a cross-section of Town boards and committees. It has also allowed the MPIC to, at times, act as a
forum to discuss ideas or proposals related to Master Plan goals and helped keep the Master Plan relevant and contemporary.
These efforts will continue going forward.
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Report of the
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Playground and Recreation Commission William J. Armando Recreation Facility
Stacey Gorman, Chairman 92 Pleasant St.
Mark Grossman, Vice-Chairman Canton, MA 02021
Marsha Armando, Member Telephone 781-821-5030
Alison Grossman, Member Fax 781-575-6587
Cab Devoll, Member www.cantonrec.co
Debra Kelly, Member rec_dept@town.canton.ma.us
Department Staff
Tyler Radicioni, Recreation Director
Alfred Gauthier, Assistant Recreation Director
Zach Reingold, Recreation Supervisor
Izzy Nolan, Youth Program Substance Abuse Coordinator
Audrey Cohen, Secretary/Principal Clerk
Dennis Aldrich, Recreation Maintenance Supervisor
Office Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Department of the Parks and Recreation is dedicated to enriching the lives of all citizens through diverse and innovative
recreation programs and services. With a focus of arts, sports and games, the outdoors, education, and community events, we
provide both active and passive social opportunities that build community and inspire personal growth. Our parks provide
support for recreation that contributes to enhancing the quality of life. The department encourages citizens to become active,
responsible, and engaged members of the community.
The members of the Parks and Recreation Commission are appointed by the Select Board, embody a cross section of Canton
residence. The Commission works with the department staff to implement its mission and to meet the needs of the
community. The Commission members also play a vital role in planning and implementation of community events sponsored
by the Parks and Recreation Department.
FACILITIES
The Department of Parks and Recreation manage three main facilities: the Armando Recreation Facility, Metropolis Skating
Rink, and Bolivar Swimming Pool. In addition, the department is responsible for maintenance of nineteen athletic fields and
seven playgrounds located in thirteen locations throughout the town of Canton. The various facilities services Canton's youth
sports programs in soccer, ice hockey, lacrosse, football, baseball, and softball as well as adult softball leagues, summer
playground and camp programs, other rental groups and Canton citizens throughout the year.
The Department of Parks and Recreation is also responsible for the lawns and required waterway treatments of the Paul
Revere Heritage Site and the Earl Newhouse Waterfront.
PROGRAMING
A full lineup of program offerings for citizens of all ages includes many popular returning programs such as summer camp,
swim lessons, and youth and adult programs. In the past year over 178 programs were offered to residents and non-residents
and as the department continues to grow additional program offerings will be made. As always, the demand is high for these
programs run directly through Canton Parks and Recreation and fill up quickly on a first come first serve basis. Visit the
Recreation Website for all program offering and registration timelines.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
During the course of the year the Parks and Recreation Commission work closely with the other town departments to offer
numerous community events. This past year the Department ran an Easter Egg Hunt, Halloween Parade, The Billy Armando
Golf Tournament, The 4th of July Celebration, Breakfast with Santa and partnered with the COA for the annual Holiday
Senior Party. The Department also partnered with CAASA to run the second ever Back to School Bash which saw over 550
people attend.
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COLLABORATION
A Special thanks to Public Works, Fire, Police, Canton Public Schools, Conservation, Council on Aging, Board of Health, The
Library and the Select Board for their consistent contributions and cooperation throughout the year to assist us in our
community events and our programs.
The Department would like to thank its staff, volunteers, the staff of all other supporting departments, the Select Board and
the citizens of Canton for their support in 2025.
45Source page 48
Report of the
PLANNING BOARD
David McCarthy, Chairman 801 Washington St.
Jim Quigley, Vice-Chairman Canton, MA 02021
Patricia McDermott, Clerk Telephone 781-821-5019
Sean Robinson, Member planning_board@town.canton.ma.us
Thomas Scully, Interim Member
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant
Connor Murphy, Town Planner
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
On April 8, 2025, David McCarthy was elected as a Planning Board member for his second five (5) year term. On June 4,
2025, the Planning Board reorganized, at which time David McCarthy was re-elected Chair; Patrick McDermott was elected
Vice Chair; and Jim Quigley was elected Clerk.
Function
The Planning Board is comprised of five elected, volunteer town residents of varied backgrounds. They are charged with the
following responsibilities:
• Preparation and updating of the Town’s Master Plan;
• Review and approval of the construction of new subdivisions;
• Adoption and Review of Town’s Subdivision Rules and Regulations;
• Presenting new streets to Town Meeting for Acceptance;
• Review and recommendation of site plans for the Zoning Board of Appeals;
• Proposal of amendments to the Zoning By-laws and reporting on amendments filed by others;
• Overseeing the Town’s Scenic Ways;
• Approval of some special permits as permitted under the Zoning By-Laws;
• Appointment of the Canton Center Design Review Board;
• Any other duty as prescribed under the General Laws of the Commonwealth and the By-Laws of the Town of
Canton.
Development Activity
The Planning Board conducted technical Site Plan Reviews for five (5) projects, including a review for the construction of a
13-space parking lot, and their approval or denial. The Board reviewed a new Definitive Subdivision Plan; an Extension for
Completion for an Approved Definitive Subdivisions; and a Bond Reduction of an Approved Definitive Subdivision. They
reviewed one (1) Approval Not Required (ANR) Plans for a division of land having frontage on existing roads and streets;
reviewed seven (7) applications for Design Review Board Approval for signage, along with the review of the Canton Public
Library Park; reviewed one (1) Scenic Way application; and informational hearings to review streets to be completed.
The Planning Board played an active role in 2025 during the Town Meeting process. Annual Town Meeting was held in May,
as well as a Special Town Meeting in August. Planning Board sponsored and held public hearings on Zoning Articles. These
articles included, but were not limited to housekeeping articles and corrections for definitions; review the Flood Plain
Amendments; various Zoning Amendments; and updating Zoning Map Changes of the Town of Canton.
46Source page 49
In June, the Planning Board welcomed a new Town Planner, Connor Murphy, who came to us with 8 years of Planning
Experience. He is working with the Planning Board and provided technical review and assistance for projects reviewed by the
Board, along with drafting and preparing Town Meeting Articles for both Town Meetings in 2025. He works with the Master
Plan Implementation Committee on updating the Master Plan; works with various consultants on the preparation and
presentation of various projects, including the Gridley School Reuse Study; the Climate Thrive Community and Municipal
Vulnerability Preparedness Planning; the Climate Action Committee; the Canton Open Space and Recreation Plan; The
Wentworth Recreation Facility Master Plan and Shared Use Path Feasibility Study; the Canton Action Plan Update; Energy
Programs; and also working with the Select Board to procure grants and accomplish other special projects to reach Town
goals.
We would like to thank T.J. Torres, Town Planner, who worked with the Planning Board for a few years and provided the
Board with technical review and assistance for projects, along with drafting and preparing Town Meeting Articles for Town
Meeting. He left the Town of Canton to pursue another opportunity and we thank him for his hard work and service to the
Community.
The Board has continued to work to implement the MAPC Downtown Canton Report’s Downtown Canton Zoning &
Design Guidelines Update. The goal is to create a strong sense of place in Canton Center. It will be walkable, vibrant with
activity, have a broad range of uses, and connect to nearby destinations. This will implement vision; provide detailed
recommendations and language for this process; with recommendations for updated zoning, along with updated design
guidelines.
Committees
The Planning Board appointed the following members to various Boards: David McCarthy: Community Preservation
Committee; Sean Robinson: Comprehensive Water Resource Management Committee; Jim Quigley: Master Plan
Implementation Committee, Permit Advisory Committee, and Open Space and Recreation Planning Working Groups, Jim
Quigley; Patricia McDermott: Sustainability Committee, Sustainability and Climate Action Plan Committee, and Walk, Bike
and Hike Committee.
Other Initiatives
This year the Planning Board, Town Planner, Building Commissioner, Zoning Board Chair, and Town Administrator, worked
together to draft Warrant Articles for Town Meeting 2025. The Planning Board continued to work with various consultants
on a number of planning efforts, including the Mary E. Wentworth Boardwalk & Recreation Site Renovation; MAPC Study on
the Canton Center Zoning and Design Guidelines; Master Plan Implementation Committee; Walk Bike & Hike Committee;
Housing Production Plan; Paul Revere Museum; and various grants. The Board has also worked collaboratively with
Engineering, Conservation, Public Works, and the Zoning Board of Appeals to review stormwater best practices and evaluate
the Town’s internal permitting and review processes.
We wish to extend our sincere appreciation to the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Engineering Division, Town Counsel, Paul
DeRensis and John Richard Hucksam, Jr., and HR Administrator Jody Middleton for their continued support throughout the
year.
In March, 2025, Kathy McCormack resigned from the Planning Board after six (6) years and the Board would like to thank her
for her many years of service and we wish her well. Thomas Scully was appointed Interim Planning Board member in June
2025, and will serve until the election in April 2026. Mr. Scully has served on the Planning Board for many years and brings
experience and knowledge to the Board.
Finally, on behalf of the Board, I would like to express our gratitude to Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant. Ms. Lawlor
has been extremely helpful in the operation of this department this past year and her work is greatly appreciated.
47Source page 50
Report of the
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Joseph Perkins, Interim Chief of Police 1492 Washington St.
Canton, MA 02021
Tele 781-828-1212
Fax 781-821-2549
The Canton, MA Police Department was first established in 1875 and has a proud and storied history of delivering
professional and dedicated police services to all residents and businesses owners within our community. As Interim Chief for
the past six (6) months, I have had the distinct pleasure of leading this Department and presenting this report for calendar year
2025.
Personnel
There were several significant changes to the department during this year. Perhaps the biggest change was the retirement of
Chief Helena Rafferty. Chief Rafferty served the community for over 35 years, last three as Chief of Police. As the Chief of
Police, Helena was instrumental in securing body worn cameras for each full-time member of the agency, for providing
valuable training to all officers, and for spear-heading the installation of a security fence around the police station. Above all,
Helena lead the department through a five-month audit conducted by an independent company, Five Stones Intelligence.
Deputy Chief Thomas Keleher retired in August after serving the town for over 32 years.
Deputy Chief Patricia Sherrill retired in September after serving the town for over 32 years. She stayed on as Interim Deputy
Chief to assist Interim Chief Perkins and to help with the onboarding of several new employees.
Sergeant Benjamin Berkowitz resigned in September to pursue other employment opportunities.
Sergeant Martin Dunlap was promoted to full-time Sergeant in September.
Two new officers, Christopher Buettner and Brian LeBlanc graduated from the Police Academy in June.
Ciara McGuire, our Mental Health Clinician, assumed the role of Supervisor and now supervises our new Mental Health
Clinician, Emily Bartlett.
Maureen Kelly was hired in September as the full-time position of Chief’s Administrative Assistant.
Grants
The agency was awarded $161,000 by the Department of Mental Health. This grant covers the salary of the full-time mental
health clinician who co-responds with our officers on crisis related calls as well as additional training for officers in the area of
de-escalation and mental health.
The agency was awarded $31,576.58 for the Municipal Road and Safety Grant from the Executive Office of Public Safety.
This grant allows officers to perform additional traffic enforcement initiatives in the community as well as utilizing the
mountain bikes for community engagement.
The State E911 Department awarded the Canton Police Department with a total of $194,028.40 in grant money for 2025.
These funds were split between a Training Grant of $72,269.40 and a Support & Incentive Grant of $121,759.00. The
Training Grant provided 16 hours of mandatory yearly E911 training for all full-time sworn employees. The Support &
Incentive Grant provided 16 hours of additional training for full-time sworn employees on responding to emergency calls.
48Source page 51
General Information
This past year, the Canton Police Department has seen a notable increase in the number of mental health calls. Mental Health
Clinician Bartlett has been instrumental in providing support services to those in the community in crisis. She co-responds
with our officers to these calls. In the past year alone, the clinician and officers jointly responded to 480 complex calls in our
community.
It has been one year since the Department went live with its Body Worn Camera (BWC) program. This was a large step
toward the accountability and transparency many of the residents have sought.
Members of the Department transition to the use of Taser 10’s, a more up-to-date non-lethal electronic weapons device.
Crime Information
For the calendar year 2025, the men and women of the Canton Police Department responded to 7,824 calls for service. These
calls for service include, but are not limited to, well-being checks, mental health crisis, weapons violations, assault and battery
with a dangerous weapon, domestic violence calls, drug offenses, breaking and entering, trespassing, firearm possession, illicit
drug investigations, and harassment investigations to name a few.
In Summary
The members of the Canton Police Department are proud of our department and the services we provide to the Town of
Canton despite adversities. The level of professionalism and dedication these men and women possess are beyond compare.
They embody the term ‘to serve and protect’.
49Source page 52
Report of the
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works 801 Washington St.
William Walsh, Operations Manager Canton, MA 02021
Alfons Koka, Town Engineer Administrative Office & Engineering Division
Larry Bogue, Highway Supervisor Lower Level – 781-821-5023
Kelsey Quinlan, GIS Manager Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Kristine Meaney, Stormwater Manager dpwdeptheads@town.canton.ma.us
Chris Sykes, Water & Sewer Supervisor Water Division Administration
Michael Jerrier, Water & Sewer Billing Coordinator Second Floor – 781-821-5017
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM
It is the mission of the Public Works Department to ensure the value of and maintenance of the existing infrastructure of the
Town of Canton as well as to promote an investment in its future, thereby providing for the health and well being of its
Citizens.
The Public Works Department, acting through the Superintendent and Managers, will provide these services in a cost
effective, responsive, and accountable manner, according to generally accepted municipal standards. The services will be
provided with a commitment to constant improvement.
ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
The Administration Division provides centralized administrative and management support for Public Works. Its activities
include managing customer service requests, business accounts, payroll, and information processing.
The Administration Division handled 7,103 phone inquiries; issued 2,000 Yard Waste Stickers, processed 7,800 invoices,
created 1,252 service requests, issued 391 mattress / box spring receipts.
HIGHWAY & MAINTENANCE DIVISION
The Highway & Maintenance Division is responsible for the upkeep of Town roads, sidewalks, trees, drains, the Canton
Corner Cemetery, and the maintenance of all equipment. Its activities include sweeping streets, repairing or reconstructing
roads and sidewalks, providing winter maintenance, cleaning catch basins on all public streets, and repairing both Public
Works and other Town owned vehicles and equipment.
The Highway & Maintenance Division coordinated surface improvements on 13.4 miles of roads. The work included 1.6
miles of cape seal, 5.7 miles of crack seal, 1.5 miles of double micro seal, 1.3 miles of mill and overlay, 0.8 miles of reclamation,
and 2.6 miles of cold-in-place recycling.
The Division also completed rehabilitation of 2 miles of pedestrian and street scape infrastructure including installation of
granite curb, ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps, asphalt and concrete sidewalks.
The Division closed out 2,984 work orders generated from scheduled maintenance and customer service requests. Provided
extended hours at 99 Pine St Transfer Station for residents to dispose of trash and recycling during the 2-month Republic
Work stoppage.
Streets were sanded or plowed 15 December 20, 2025.
ENGINEERING DIVISION
The Engineering Division provides technical support and project co-ordination for the Department as well as for other Town
Boards and agencies. The Division manages funds received through the State’s Chapter 90 Program, also inspects and
approves contract and private work that add to the infrastructure of the Town.
During the year the Division completed several major efforts including; the design and installation of the Elm St. Culvert, the
design and installation of drainage improvements along Indian Ln., and the installation of traffic signals at York and Randolph
St. The Division also completed; the design and layout of the Pine and Bolivar St. intersection, the design and layout of
Randolph and Old Randolph St. intersection, design and layout of bike lanes along Randolph St., oversaw the completion of
the new public parking lot along Neponset St.
50Source page 53
The Engineering Division continues to work with MassDOT on the Revere Ct. bridge project, continues design work on a
pickleball court design.
The Division issued 47 water permits, 41 sewer permits, 4 drain permits, 185 trench permits, 116 street excavation permits,
processed $1,213,450 in Chapter 90 reimbursements.
GIS DIVISION
The Geographic Information System (GIS) Division is responsible for using mapping technology and data analysis to support
Public Works planning and operations. Using computer software, the Division creates maps, assists with work orders,
analyzes data to improve efficiency and decision making for managing the Town’s physical assets and for providing services.
In 2025, the GIS Division launched the AxisGIS web-based mapping platform. This platform allows other Town
Departments and Residents to browse and visualize Canton GIS data from anywhere, anytime.
WATER SEWER DIVISION
The Water Sewer Division is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Town’s water and sanitary sewer systems.
The Division provides safe clean drinking water from eight Town wells and the MWRA. Sanitary waste is removed through
the sewer system and transferred to the MWRA interceptor and then to Deer Island treatment facility.
The Division processed 32,359 water sewer bills, handled 2,20 water and 86
sewer service requests, completed 181 water meter installation and water meter service calls. Repaired 36 water breaks.
Water Sewer Division produced 421 MG from the Moran and Sullivan Treatment Facilities and bought 527 MG from the
MWRA for calendar year 2025.
The Division worked with engineering consultants to complete design of the Sullivan Water Treatment Plant improvements
and continue work on the Federal and State required Lead Service Inventory.
On the sewer, under Phase 2 Sewer Rehab project, National Water Main CCTV’d 8,800 linear feet of sewer main in
preparation of relining in 2026.
STORMWATER DIVISION
The Stormwater Division manages surface runoff, rain / snowmelt that does not soak into the ground, collecting it from
streets and properties and directing the runoff to natural waterways. Key functions of the Division include; maintenance of
drainage infrastructure, pollution prevention, public education, regulatory compliance.
All streets were swept 5 times. 13 catch basins were repaired, 425 were cleaned.
On April 15, 2025 the Select Board approved a Stormwater Utility Fee. This fee provides a dedicated source of funding for
the costs to maintain the Town’s storm drainage infrastructure that protects the community from flooding and prevents
stormwater pollution. Revenues from the Fee will also help the Town effectively meet regulatory requirements enforced by
US EPA and MA DEP that allows the Town to discharge stormwater into the community’s brooks, ponds, rivers, and
wetlands. Billing for the Stormwater Utility Fee commenced in July 2025.
REFLECTION
Public Works congratulates Steve McCarrick for 45 years of service. Joe Smith for 35 years, Steve Teague and Brian
Loughgran for 20 years, Susan Langan and Michael Jerriere for 10, years of service. Our success is built upon their
commitment and effort.
We welcomed 4 new employees to the Public Works roster: Joe Leombruno, Melanie Lenhardt, Martin Durell, and Michael
Susi.
The Department congratulates and thanks James Connor on his retirement.
A special note or thanks. to all Public Works employees for their dedication and hard work during the Republic Services work
stoppage.
51Source page 54
Report of the
NORFOLK COUNTY REGISTRY OF DEEDS
William P. O’Donnell, Register 649 High Street
Dedham, MA 02060
Telephone 781-461-6101
registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org
This year marked another chapter of progress and resilience for the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds. We were proud to
release our fourth volume of Notable Land Records, titled “We Remember Our Women,” honoring the extraordinary
contributions of women throughout Norfolk County’s history. The release of this booklet was commemorated with a special
open house featuring keynote speaker Lieutenant Governor Kimberly Driscoll, who spoke about the importance of preserving
and celebrating women’s stories. The fourth edition of Notable Land Records highlights trailblazing women who shaped
Norfolk County, from early advocates for education and civic engagement to modern leaders in public service and the arts. It
features stories from all 28 communities in the county, including figures such as founder of the Audubon Society Harriet
Hemenway of Canton.
2025 also brought a significant legal victory for the Registry of Deeds. On October 1, 2025, the Norfolk Superior Court
entered a Judgment and Order in favor of Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell, reaffirming an earlier ruling from June 28,
2024. These decisions struck down unlawful actions by the Norfolk County Commissioners—Joseph P. Shea of Quincy, Peter
H. Collins of Milton, and Richard R. Staiti of Canton—and County Director John J. Cronin, who violated Massachusetts
General Laws Chapter 64D, Sections 11 and 12 by interfering with Registry operations and misappropriating funds designated
for Registry use.
I greatly appreciate the voices and efforts of so many attorneys, real estate brokers, assessors, engineers, trade organizations,
and concerned citizens, many from Canton, who spoke out against poor County decision-making. After more than a decade
of maintaining a dedicated Disaster Recovery Office in Dedham, the three elected Norfolk County Commissioners along with
the County Director, unilaterally closed the Registry’s disaster recovery site and attempted to relocate it to Walpole without
consulting the Registry and without securing an occupancy permit from the Town of Walpole. This failure left Norfolk
County residents without a functioning disaster recovery office for the first time in 15 years. The lack of compliance with
accessibility and permitting requirements not only violates basic standards but also jeopardizes the security of land records that
protect homeownership and property rights. In an era of cybersecurity threats and scams, this decision is unacceptable and
underscores the urgent need for sound management and accountability in County operations.
The Registry of Deeds is the principal office for real property records in Norfolk County. The Registry receives and records
hundreds of thousands of documents annually. It houses more than 14 million land documents dating back to 1793. These
land documents and the integrated Registry indexes to these land documents, are available to the public for on-line research at
www.norfolkdeeds.org. The Registry is a primary and indispensable resource for title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipal
officials, homeowners, real estate attorneys, genealogists, and others with a need for land record information.
The Registry operates under my supervision and management as the elected Register. I have held the position since 2002. In
continuous operation dating back to President George Washington’s administration, the Registry’s mission has remained the
same: to maintain and provide for accurate, reliable, and accessible land records to all residents and businesses of Norfolk
County. The modernization initiatives implemented during my administration have created a sound business operation
oriented toward quality customer service at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds.
52Source page 55
2025 Norfolk County Registry of Deeds Achievements
• The Registry of Deeds Customer Service and Copy Center continues to provide residents and businesses with quality
service. These requests included the filing of Homesteads, accessing deeds, verifying recorded property documents
and assisting those in need of obtaining a mortgage discharge notice. Customers can contact the Customer Service
and Copy Center at 781-461-6101, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30AM to 4:30PM. Folks in need
of services from our Customer Service Center can also come by the Registry of Deeds Building located at 649 High
Street in downtown Dedham across from the gold domed Norfolk Superior Court.
• In calendar year 2025, the Registry collected approximately 59.4 million dollars in revenue. Out of that money, more
than $53.1 million was apportioned to the Commonwealth and more than $6.3 million was disbursed to Norfolk
County
in the form of deeds excise taxes and recording fees and surcharges. Of that money in accordance with M.G.L. Ch.
64D Sect. 12(a) not less than 40 percent shall be disbursed and expended for the automation, modernization and
operation of the registries of deeds. There was collected $5,343,975 pursuant to the Community Preservation Act
(CPA).
• The Registry of Deeds continues to address legislative issues to benefit consumers. In 2026, we will continue to
advocate for filed legislation that accomplishes mortgage transparency by requiring mortgage assignments be recorded
at the appropriate Registry of Deeds in a timely manner.
• This year saw a record number of electronic recording filers, approximately 2,993. The Registry recorded more than
86,500 documents electronically, accounting for nearly 80% of all recorded land records.
• Norfolk Registry of Deeds was the first registry in Massachusetts to electronically record registered land documents.
This started in the Land Court section of the Registry of Deeds in 2017. Electronic recording was crucial in remaining
operational during the coronavirus pandemic. Initially, the percentage of registered land documents recorded
electronically was 15%. The percentage of registered land documents recorded via electronic recording has now
grown to 70%. This technology alone brought in more than $52.6 million.
• In 2025, we shelved Registry of Deeds Book 42824. At the end of 2025, we were processing the documents for Book
42863. These books house land records dating back to 1793 and are available for public research. For the sake of
security and redundancy, we store our documents in three different ways: hard copy, electronically, and by microfiche.
There is a state law mandating that recorded documents be microfilmed.
• In calendar year 2025, the Registry processed more than 11,000 Homestead applications. The law, Mass General Law
Chapter 188, provides limited protection of one’s primary residence against unsecured creditor claims.
• The internet library of images, accessible to the public through the Registry of Deeds’ online research system at
www.norfolkdeeds.org continues to expand. Today, all documents dating back to the first ones recorded in 1793 are
available for viewing.
• Our website includes a genealogy page and a section highlighting land records of notable people – United States
Presidents, military heroes, noted authors, and leaders in their fields of education, the environment, and the law.
• The Registry’s website www.norfolkdeeds.org routinely updates the public on such news as real estate statistics,
answers to frequently asked questions, along with detailing of our consumer programs. Additionally, we also write a
monthly column for various Norfolk County newspapers and their online websites. We also distribute a weekly
information release to alert residents of the latest happenings as well as to remind them of our consumer services.
• The Registry’s free Consumer Notification Service allows any county resident to opt in to this free notification service
and be alerted when any land document – fraudulent or otherwise – is recorded against their name. Over 4,500
Norfolk County residents have signed up for this free service. For more information, please see our website at:
www.norfolkdeeds.org.
• In 2025 we continued our partnerships with, among others, Interfaith Social Services of Quincy, Father Bill’s &
MainSpring of Quincy, the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System Voluntary Service Program, Needham
Community Council, Circle of Hope in Needham, United Parish’s Thrifty Threads, St. Vincent de Paul in Plainville,
St. Francis House in Boston, Suits and Smiles in Jamaica Plain, InnerCity Weightlifting, New Life Furniture Bank of
Massachusetts in Walpole, The Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity of Boston, and Mass Hire South West.
The mission of “Suits for Success” is to collect donations of suitable clothing to be distributed to individuals and
nonprofit organizations who are in need of appropriate attire and clothing.
• Our Annual Holiday Food Drive continues to support several food pantries in Norfolk County and our Christmas
Toys for Tots campaign in partnership with the United States Marine Corps was again a success.
53Source page 56
Canton Real Estate Activity Report
January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025
During 2025, Canton real estate activity saw an increase in the total number of deeds recorded, and an increase in the number
of mortgages recorded.
There was an increase in the number of documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds for Canton in 2025; an
increase of 102 documents from 3,442 to 3,544.
The total number of deeds recorded for properties in Canton in 2025, which reflects both commercial and residential real
estate sales and transfers, was 595, up 4% from the previous year.
The total volume of real estate sales in Canton during 2025 was $566,520,480, up 66% from 2024. The average sale price of
homes and commercial property decreased 5% in Canton. The average sale price was $1,047,887. The average sale price
includes both commercial and residential property, and residential property averages may be lower.
The number of mortgages recorded (654) on Canton properties in 2025 was up 11% from the previous year. Additionally,
total mortgage indebtedness increased 17% to $712,332,865 during the same period.
There was one foreclosure deed filed in Canton during 2025, two less than the number recorded the previous year. The total
number of notices to foreclose was nine, six less than the number recorded in 2024.
Homestead activity increased by 1% in Canton during 2025, with 388 homesteads filed compared to 386 in 2024.
Finally, our objective at the Registry will always be to maintain, secure, accurate, and accessible land records for the residents
and businesses of Norfolk County. It is a privilege to serve you.
Respectfully submitted by,
54Source page 57
Report of the
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Kimberly McCourt, Chair 960 Washington St.
Sonja Grauds, Vice Chair Canton, MA 02021
Kristian Darigan Merenda, Clerk Telephone 781-821-5060
Kendall O’Halloran, Member Fax 781-575-6500
Amanda Ryder, Member www.cantonma.org
Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
OVERVIEW
Throughout 2025, the Canton Public Schools (CPS), in collaboration with educators, staff, families, the community, our School
Committee and town officials, enjoyed another successful year of incredible achievement, learning and growth. In some areas, it was
even historic!
For academics, our Canton High School students achieved the highest scores on Advanced Placement exams ever, with 86 percent
of the students scoring 3 or above. Additionally, we administered 699 exams to 328 students. Both all-time highs at CHS. As a result
of this achievement, CHS earned silver status on the AP Honor Roll.
Also noteworthy, the Galvin Middle School students in 8th grade earned their highest MCAS scores ever in Math, while the 7th
graders reached a record high in their ELA MCAS scores. GMS, overall, continues to set the pace in the District in MCAS overall
growth, achievement and progress toward goals.
We offer heartfelt congratulations to the 2025 CHS Golf Team for winning its first state championship! And bravo to the girls cross
country team for winning the Hockomock Championship Meet for the first time since 1978. The 2025 fall athletic season featured a
record 5 Hockomock League MVPs from CHS teams. Incredibly impressive!
These milestones are only part of the CPS experience. Our focus is always on each and every one of our students. We closed out
June 2025 celebrating our students who engaged in a number of incredible learning and extracurricular experiences that were both
transformational and fulfilling on many levels. In September, CPS welcomed over 3,200 students for the 2025-26 school year, and
the students, staff and families cherished the relationships, the opportunities, achievement and joy that happened in the classrooms,
schools and beyond.
We earned “significant progress” status -- as defined by DESE -- on our District accountability reports and MCAS scores. We love
seeing our students thrive in academic, personal and extracurricular pursuits.
Most recently, CPS engaged in program reviews for Science and Performing Arts, and many hours of curriculum work and job-
embedded professional development for continued implementation of our curricular goals. We are also proud of our continued
professional learning for OpenSciEd, Universal Design for Learning, Multi-Tier Systems of Support, Co-Teaching, Applied Learning
and high quality instruction.
The GMS Project Team, meanwhile, continued its ramp up work for the start of construction of the new Galvin Middle School in
the summer of 2026. The Ai3 Design Team spent several hours meeting with educators to tailor the spaces to their needs, while also
meeting with town groups and town boards to refine the 60 percent design submission to MSBA.
In the summer of 2025, our GMS Project Team -- led by Consigli Construction -- completed preliminary site work with land clearing
and the building of an access road. Full building construction will take place from June 2026-June 2028. The new GMS is scheduled
to open in September of 2028, with the exterior grounds and fields completed in 2029.
Internally, we also completed a major Student Information System (SIS) project with the transition to PowerSchool. Mr. Fogel and
members of his team did exemplary work with data migration, training, scheduling and, most importantly, communication.
PowerSchool is still a work in progress, but the new SIS is a significant improvement for Canton Public Schools. We also launched
an Artificial Intelligence Working Group as part of our District Goals, as we prepare for a thoughtful and comprehensive approach
to AI integration.
Finally, Canton Public Schools continues to follow its 5-year Strategic Plan, which includes an update to its Mission, Vision and Core
Values -- (REACH) Respectful and Collaborative Relationships, Educational Equity, Academic and Personal Excellence,
Community Engagement, and High Quality Teaching, Learning and Leading. This document will serve as a guidepost for
continuous improvement, rigorous and equitable experiences, and innovative thinking.
Above all, the District remains extremely proud of its schools and the school community and looks forward to a joyous and
successful second half of the school year, beginning January 2026.
55Source page 58
FINANCE
The School Department operating budget for the 2025-2026 school year is distributed as follows:
Salaries $48,488,153
Expenses $10,545,595,
Total $59,033,748
The above figure represents a 4.93% increase above the 2024-2025 budget.
The operating budget of $59,033,748 is supplemented with revenue offsets projected at $4,321,640 from revolving (fee-based)
accounts and reserve fund accounts and $1,594,010 in federal, state and private grants.
Revolving Accounts/Reserve Funds
Athletic User Fees $150,000
Pre-School Revolving $100,000
Other Revolving Accounts $350,000
Special Education Circuit Breaker Revolving $4,810,784
Special Education Reserve $1,000,000
TOTAL $6,410,784
Federal/ State/Private Grants
SPECIAL EDUCATION 94-142 $1,010,9122
SPECIAL EDUCATION Early Childhood $33,111
FY26 TITLE I $339,913
FY26 TITLE II $62,283
FY26 TITLE III $24,395
FY26 TITLE IV $10,967
COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICES $74,000
TOTAL $1,415,486
56Source page 59
The District’s FY26 budget, approved at the Annual Town Meeting in May 2025, totaled $59,033,738. This 4.93% increase
from the previous year’s budget supports the District’s efforts to effectively meet the needs of all our students from grades
PreK-12.
The District’s FY25 Cash Capital Budget totaled $1,100,000. The District used the cash capital funds to address the following:
Building/Grounds Repairs and Improvements
● Auditorium Painting – CHS
● District-Wide HVAC Improvements
● Screen and Shade Repairs Districtwide
● Hansen Fence Replacement
● JFK Asphalt Improvements
● Elementary School Landscaping Improvements
Technology
● Chromebook Replacement Cycle
● E-Rate Funded Technology Infrastructure Upgrades
● Classroom Printer Replacements
● Touchview Screen Replacements
● Classroom Projector Replacements
● Rodman Early Childhood Education Electrical Improvements
Safety and Security
● School Entryway Security Enhancement Study
● CHS Lower Campus Traffic Improvement Study
● Rodman Early Childhood Education Center Accessibility Improvements
● Exterior Door Replacements
Program Improvements
● Veterans Memorial Field Lighting - CHS
● Pit Piano Replacement
● GMS Digital Arts Lab Technology
● Turf Field Scoreboard Replacement
● Classroom based instruments - District
● CHS Science Lab Table Replacements
Furniture & Fixtures
● Elementary Cafeteria Table Replacements
● JFK Classroom Furniture Improvements
Extraordinary Maintenance/Vehicle Replacements
● Passenger Van
Debt Capital
● JFK Univent Upgrade
57Source page 60
STUDENT ENROLLMENT
The following are enrollment figures for the pre-school, elementary, middle and high schools for October 2024 (school year
2024/25) and October 2025 (school year 2025/26):
2024-2025 2025-2026 Difference
Oct. 1, 2024 Oct. 1, 2025
Pre-school 134 121 -13
Elementary 1503 1518 +15
Middle School 712 721 +9
High School 972 953 -19
Out-of-District 58 67 +9
Total 3,321 3314 -65
Demographics 2024 and 2025The charts below show the race/ethnicity percentages and other subgroups of the Canton
Public Schools student population in 2024 (total enrollment 3,321) and 2025 (total enrollment 3,314), not including out-of-
district students).
Race/Ethnicity
% in 2024 % in 2025 Difference
African American/Black 12.8 13.4 +0.6
Asian 10.6 10.9 +0.3
Hispanic 7.6 8.6 +1
Native American 0.1 0.2 +0.1
White 59.9 60 +0.1
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Island 0.1 0.2 +0.1
Multi-race Non-Hispanic 6.7 6.7 0
Total Enrollment 3,321 3314 -7
58Source page 61
Other Student Sub-Groups
% in 2024 % in 2025 Difference
Limited English Proficient 4.6 4.2 -0.4
Students with Disabilities 17.6 18.2 0.6
Economically Disadvantaged 22.2 22.1 -0.1
OPERATIONS
Transportation
CPS provides yellow bus transportation for approximately 1,942 CPS students, in addition to roughly 30 students who attend
St. John School. In addition to yellow bus transportation, CPS provides van transportation for roughly 153 in-district students
and 65 out of district students. Van transportation is provided by Vanpool, RAZ and ARTS.
In 2022, the District solicited bids for yellow bus transportation. First Student was awarded a three-year contract with two
option years; the cost of the three-year contract is $4,221,968.40. In 2025, CPS elected to exercise option year one with First
Student in an effort to ensure predictable costs in FY26. CPS owns and operates one of the twenty buses used to complete 98
daily routes for morning and afternoon runs. CPS also owns and operates two additional buses, which are used on a daily
basis for field trips and club/team transportation.
Food Service
CPS manages and operates its food service program in-house. On average, our Food Service department provides more than
2300 meals each school day. The District employs 29 hourly staff members across five buildings, one administrative assistant,
and one director. Procurement of food and supplies is primarily achieved through a purchasing collaborative with TEC (The
Education Collaborative). School meals continue to be provided free of charge to students under Universal Free School Meals
in Massachusetts. Our Food Service program is self-sufficient, relying on local receipts, state reimbursement, and federal
reimbursement to cover expenditures.
Facilities
The CPS Facilities department consists of 21 full-time custodians, five full-time maintenance staff, and one director. In
coordination with other town departments and outside vendors, the facilities team completed multiple projects throughout the
year, including safety upgrades that include the Fire Alarm system at the High School, barrier gates at JFK and Luce, and door
replacements and repairs at Luce. HVAC unit replacement in the Luce Library, paving of the lot at the maintenance building,
door hardware upgrades, and basketball hoop replacement in the JFK Gym.
RETIREMENTS
The following staff members retired in 2025. Congratulations and a heartfelt thank you to all our retirees for their decades of
service to the Canton Public Schools.
Employee Position Years of Service
Karen Atocha Educational Assistant 23
Rebecca Backmender Teacher 6
Cynthia Bainton Educational Assistant 17
59Source page 62
Nancy Cahillane Educational Assistant 25
Julie Foley Teacher 10
Robert Gruberman Teacher 23
Katie Leazott Guidance Counselor 15
Jennifer McAteer Teacher 25
Edward McDonough Teacher 24
STUDENT HONORS, AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Each year, CHS holds both a Scholastic Honors Night and a Scholarship Night. We extend our most sincere thanks and
appreciation to the 73 community partners this year, whose generosity awarded $221,050 in scholarship money to 75 members
of the class of 2025. All of the 2025 awards are too numerous to list here. Below are just a few of the notable achievements:
Alan B Dewey Sr. Scholarship Emma Cummings
Bud Herzog Theater Arts Scholarship Brianna Fleurime
Business Network International (BNI) Scholarship Fund Tyler Goldowski
C.F. McCarthy's Student Athlete of Distinction Scholarship Jaylen Thompson
Canton Association of Business and Industry (CABI) Charlotte Clyve
Canton Garden Club Scholarship Leah Condon
Canton Garden Club Visual Arts Scholarship Hannah King
Cornerstone at Canton Health Services Scholarship Amanda Hodgdon
Dr. and Mrs. James Galvin Scholarships Jasmine Findlen, Theresa Giglio
Elizabeth M. (Betty) DeYeso Scholarship Luke Richards
Frank R & Elizabeth Simoni Foundation Pranav Addanki, Nishka Baduamanda
Jeanette Winthrop Scholarship Ryan Garrett
Organogenesis Regenerative Medicine Scholarship Anthony Wang
Rodman Ford Scholarship Klara Redquest
Seabird Scholarship Isaiah McKinney
Success Express Scholarship Max Eagles
60Source page 63
Susan Corraro LaRosa Memorial Scholarship Isabel Digirolam, Julianne Gilchrist
The Friends of Virginia Merchant Scholarship Ashley Balunas
John and Abigail Adams Scholarship
The John and Abigail Adams Scholarship is a merit-based program that provides credit toward tuition for up to eight
semesters of undergraduate education at a Massachusetts state college or university. For this scholarship, merit is based on
students' scores on the 10th-grade Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) test. To be eligible for the
scholarship, students must:
● Score in the Advanced category on one of three high school state assessment tests in English Language Arts,
Mathematics, or STE (Biology, Chemistry, Introductory Physics or Technology/Engineering)
● Score Proficient or Advanced on the remaining two high school state assessment tests
● Have a combined MCAS score on these assessments that ranks in the top 25% in their district
Congratulations to the following students who received the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship in 2025.
Sampoorna Bais Jean Marie Gillis Iryna Kurchak Donna Robbins
Kristin Bigham Anne Grady Xu Ting (Kristina) Chen Christine Schiavo
Brian Bigham Melanie Greitzer Madhel Majok Courtney Secord
Yana Blochstein Gretchen Gugliotta Carrie Martignetti Tania Sfeir
Adrianne Campbell Nada Heredia Allyson Martin Kathleen Sheppard
Susan Carlson Debra Hernon Kristin Masciarelli Marie Nuahn
Kathy Chin Terry Howard Jeremy Levitan Sarah Sullivan
Christine Chiulli Ling Zhang Kathleen McCloskey Ariane Swearingen
Janine Clarke Kristina Kriksciukaite Kim Mooney Elizabeth Thompson
LaMeeka Corporan Shally Joseph Angela Tong-Mulkern Liliana Santos To
Teresa Deleconio May Abdul-Kader Khanh-Hoa Nguyen Judy Truglia
Maureen Dervan Daisy Salamanca Ihor Pankevych Fumi Turcotte-Shamski
Meighan Driscoll Christa Kelleher Liza Piazza Silvia Valintine
Peggy O'Keefe Meg Kennedy Nancy Powers Monique Bulotsky Weaver
Luis Eduardo Garcia Karina Kolokithas Erin Proctor Justin Won
Aneeka Cheema Shobha Kommareddy Savitha Narayanan Kristina Wright
Aisha Yusufzai Alida Zeraj
61Source page 64
DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS
World Languages
Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy
In the spring of 2025, Canton High School students participated in the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy for the fifth year.
The following sixteen students in the class of 2025 were awarded the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy for proficiency in
English and the languages below:
Sophia Barnard Kirsten Batitay Kayleigh Brown
(French) (Spanish) (Spanish)
Ann-Sophy Charles Ann-Sophy Charles Charlotte Clyve
(French) (Haitian Creole) (Spanish)
Rafaella Dantas Nicholas Flaherty Emily Hales
(Spanish) (Spanish) (Spanish)
Sonia Le Sonia Le Casey Lee
(French) (Japanese) (French)
Maxwell Mateo Annie McLean Amy Murphy
(Spanish) (Spanish) (Spanish)
Ethan Tran Madeline Wilson Eunis Yoyo
(Spanish) (Spanish) (French)
Eunis Yoyo
(Haitian Creole)
The following 7 students in the class of 2025 earned the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction in English and
the languages below:
Tanika Airo Naylanni Baez Micah Chen
(Swahili) (Spanish) (Spanish)
Camila Cutter Alice Pereira Firma Pierre
(Spanish) (Portuguese) (French)
Firma Pierre Firma Pierre Marie Thomasi
(Haitian Creole) (Spanish) (French)
Marie Thomasi
(Wolof)
62Source page 65
Community Partnership
Canton High School expanded its Italian Language and Culture Cohort offerings. This was made possible again thanks to a
community partnership that the District formed with CIAO, a non-profit educational organization led by Canton resident Paul
Sergi, MD. Assisted by several other Italian cultural organizations in Massachusetts, including the Italian American Alliance
(IAA of Boston, MA), the Pirandello Lyceum (PL), and the Italian American Cultural Organization (IACO of the South
Shore), CIAO provided seed funds to expand the world languages offerings at Canton High School for the third year in a row,
offering Italian levels 1, 2, and 3 in the 2025-2026 school year. CIAO plans to continue collaborating with the District to
support its growing Italian Language and Culture Cohort.
Visual Arts
● The Visual Arts Department’s professional learning focus has centered around UDL practices as we explore “How
can we engage and support all learners in our Visual Arts classrooms?” This focus was determined from our departmental
program review.
● 150 students (grades 1-12) had their work included in the Artists’ in Bloom exhibit, which was held at the Canton
Public Library at the end of March.
● 41 CHS students submitted photographs to the Fall in New England photography competition, hosted by the Louise
LaFontaine Memorial Project. 12 students earned scholarship awards based on the merits of their work, and all
photographs submitted were included in an exhibit which was held at the Canton Public Library in November.
● 6 CHS students had their artwork selected for the 2025 UMASS Dartmouth Emerging Young Artists + Designers juried
online exhibition, and Dan Albert received a recognition award for his digital photograph, “The Other Side”.
● 5 students received Scholastic Art Awards (Gavin Pushard, Isabella Kowalski, Caitlin Tureski, Amelia Chambon,
Claire Wong), and two students received Scholastic Writing Awards (Ava Klidas, Morgan Smith).
● 7 CHS students (Caitlin Tureski, Gavin Pushard, Kaitlyn Sullivan, Michaela Singleton, Tyler Benson, Max Eagles,
Dianna Peters) had artwork selected for the Massachusetts Art Education Association’s (MAEA) Recognitions juried
online exhibition, and senior Dianna Peters received a recognition award for her digital artwork, “Perspective”.
● 20 CHS students had artwork included in the Massachusetts Art Education Association's (MAEA) online exhibit
for Youth Art Month in March.
● CHS Visual Arts teacher, Stephen Gaul, had one of his sculptures selected for The Art of Education University’s
exhibit at the National Art Education Association’s national convention in Kentucky.
● The Visual Arts Department received a Canton Cultural Council grant to create ceramic lanterns for the American
Cancer Society’s Relay for Life 24 Hour Walk. The lanterns were sold to raise money for the American Cancer
Society.
● The Visual Arts Department received a Mass Cultural Council grant to collaborate with local portrait photographer
Rachelle Jeanty, who shared her expertise with students in the Photo 2 & 3 class, teaching them about studio
lighting and portrait photography. Their photographs were put on display at the Canton Public Library in April.
● Sculpture 2 students created a collaborative sculptur,e which was exhibited at the Attleboro Arts Museum’s “High
Art 2025: Balance” exhibit. The exhibit included work from 13 area high schools.
● Photo 2 & 3 students worked with Sean Kent from Mass Audubon to create environmental advocacy posters, using
their photographs taken at the Audubon site across the street from the high school.
● Digital Art students collaborated with student artists from the JFK Elementary School and student poets from the
Galvin Middle School to create an illustrated book of fantastical creatures.
● 4 CHS students received Hockomock Film Festival Awards (1st Place Documentary - Tommy Oliver, Izaiah
Xayvethy and 2nd Place Documentary - Ceylin Uysal-Post, Brianna Carstairs).
63Source page 66
Performing Arts
Below is a list of 2025 Performing Arts events.
● Jan 10/11- Senior Districts Festival
● Jan 21 - Luce, JFK concert
● Jan 12 - Hansen concert
● Jan 21/22 - GMS Concert
● Jan 28 -CHS Winter Concert
● Feb 11- TriM Valentines Concert
● Feb 27/28 - Luce performs Alice in Wonderland Jr
● March 15/16 - CHS performs Chicago
● March 28/29- JFK performs Little Mermaid Jr
● April 1- Encore Private Lesson Recital
● April 4 - CHS concert
● April 11/12 - GMS Performs Descendants
● May 9 - CHS cabaret
● May 16 - CHS pops concert
● May 26- CHS Band marches in the Memorial Day Parade
● May 30/31- Hansen performs Shrek Jr
● June 9- GMS Band/Chorus Concert
● June 10 - Grade 4-8 Strings Night
● June 11 - Elementary Band Concert
● August 11-15 - Music Camp
● August 18-22 - Theater Camp
● Nov 1 - Cantonstock
● Nov 14-16 CHS performs The Outsiders
● Dec 5-6 - GMS performs When Roses Stood
● Dec 13- CHS performs One Act Plays
● Dec 16 - CHS concert
Athletics
2025 was yet another Championship Year for the Bulldogs of Canton High School. Many teams advanced deep into the
MIAA tournament, highlighted by the Boys Hockey finishing runner up in Division 2, Field Hockey and Football teams
advancing to the State Final Four and the Girls Cross Country team placing 2nd at the All-State meet. Golf won their first ever
Division 2 State Title, as well as the D2 North Sectional. The Hockomock League title was also claimed by the following
teams:
Field Hockey, Boys Hockey, Boys Swimming. Also of note, more than 65% of the school’s population participated in the
athletic program.
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
2025 MCAS Results
CPS students continue to perform well across multiple measures, including state and national standardized assessments. For
more details about Canton students’ achievement, visit the Canton Public Schools District profile on the Department of
Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) website (profiles.doe.mass.edu). The information is also linked here.
In 2025, students in grades 3-8 and in grades 9-10 took the conventional Next Generation online spring MCAS exams. Each
student completed two sessions of a grade-level exam in English language arts (ELA) and math. Students in grades 5, 8, and 9
completed two sessions of science, technology and engineering.
The chart below details the percentage of students who met or exceeded expectations on the MCAS Achievement tests in
spring 2025. For each grade and each test – ELA, math, or science – Canton students, on average, outperformed students
from across the Commonwealth.
64Source page 67
MCAS 2024 Results: Percentage of Students Scoring at
Meeting or Exceeding Expectations
ELA Math Science
Grade Canton State Canton State Canton State
3-8 58 42 61 41 59 42
HS 60 51 59 45 71 46
CHS students performed well on these assessments, increasing their performance to 86% from 81% of scores of 3 or above.
Advanced Placement Test Score Results: 2025
Number of AP Courses Number of AP Tests Taken % AP Tests with
offered at CHS
Scores of 3 or Above
22 699 86%
2025 National Honor Society New Inductees
Sofia Anastasiou Emma Duong Minh Hong Veronica Lykov Sia Parikh Madelyn Smith
Erin Bigham Bailey Ezekiel James Howard Cassidy Lyons Brooke Perlman Elim Tai
Riley Blake Isabel Farrow Alvis Huang Emerson Martin Alexa Piazza Emma Thiboutot
Emma Alexis Fidas Rose Isaacs Grace Martinek Gavin Pushard Madison
Bouwmeester Thompson
Maia Cabrera John Flood Lillia Ivaniv Madison McCabe Sophie Regan Fiona Trendell
Charlotte Vladimir Prakrit Iyer Abigail Mulkern Caitlyn Reynolds Arnish Tripathi
Campbell Francoeur
Amelia Chambon Paola Garcia Ashton Joyce Cameron Mullin Vivian Roache Julia VanOsdol
Zambrano
Grace Collins Samantha James Keith Mackenzie Mullin Vivian Roache Benjamin Weaver
Gardner
Liam Connolly Brianna Geoghan Shane Kelleher Shalini Nadarajah Hailey Roberts Eli Weaver
Allison Maicey Greitzer Anna Kennedy Anushka Nair Soley Rodriguez Connor Wright
Cummings
Lauren DeVito Soumya Gupta Alyssa Kosh Sameeksha Nair Eleanor Rooney
Robert Dickson Katherine Gweth Kendall Labanara Dahlia Nguyen Michael Ryan
Grace Donahue Natalie Hales Penelope LaRose Lola Nordgren Layla Sandler
65Source page 68
William Doucette Brady Harte Avery Lebowitz Jack Norton Madalyn Sheehan
Chloe Dubuisson Isabella Holland Maeve Lehan Karimi Nyaga Elisabeth Silvasy
CHS CLASS OF 2025 – Colleges and Universities
The list below shows the attending colleges and universities for the graduating class of 2025. Canton’s ongoing support creates a
high-quality school District that serves the children of Canton well.
Post-graduation plans for the Class of 2025
• 87% continuing education
• 82% attended a 4-year college
• 5% attended a 2-year college
• 6% joined the workforce or military
• 7% joined a trade
Roger Williams University Mississippi State University University of Maine Dartmouth College
University of Suffolk University Massachusetts Maritime Stark State College
Massachusetts-Lowell Academy
Merrimack College Cornell University Pennsylvania State Marist University
University Main Campus
Bridgewater State University Drexel University Worcester Polytechnic Michigan State University
Institute
University of Connecticut Collectiv Academy The University of Tampa San Diego State University
Norwich University Westminster University James Madison University American International
College
Providence College University of Hartford University of South West Virginia University
Carolina-Columbia
University of New Massasoit Brandeis University Harvard University
Hampshire
Emmanuel College Framingham State Bentley University
University of University
Massachusetts-Amherst
Boston College Nova Southeastern The University of West University at Albany, SUNY
University Florida
University of Vermont Saint Anselm College Syracuse University University of Miami
Western Michigan Hampton University University of Rhode Island University of California-Los
University Angeles
University of Maryland- Howard University Massachusetts Bay Carnegie Mellon University
College Park Community College
Bunker Hill Community High Point University Chapman University Middlebury College
College
Williams College Massachusetts College of Massachusetts College of Elon University
Pharmacy and Health Art and Design
Sciences
66Source page 69
The full District Report Card can be viewed here.
SCHOOL COMMITTEE UPDATE
Calendar year 2025 was another busy year for the Canton School Committee. The Town of Canton election in April resulted in new
member Amanda Ryder and incumbent Kristian Merenda each being elected to three year terms. Sonja Grauds was also elected to
complete the final year of the 2023-2026 term to which she was appointed in October 2024. At the next meeting following the
election, the Committee reorganization was voted by the members to be the following: Chair, Kim McCourt; Vice Chair, Sonja
Grauds; Clerk, Kristian Merenda.
Throughout the year, the Committee continued its regular work under the four pillars of the Canton Public Schools Strategic
Framework: 1) Achieving Educational Excellence & Ensuring Equity; 2) Cultivating School Climate & Culture; 3) Transforming
Teaching & Learning; and 4) Achieving District Excellence.
Following the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s “Model Evaluation Process for Superintendents”, the School
Committee conducted Superintendent Folan’s Formative and Summative Evaluations in February and June, respectively.
2025 was a very challenging year financially, as Canton and all towns/cities in Massachusetts were levied a unilateral 12% increase in
both Special Education out of district placement costs and Special Education transportation costs. This increase highlights the
significant expenses related to special education that all districts across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are facing. Despite
financial headwinds, the Budget & Finance subcommittee conducted a regular review of the district budget and collaborated with the
administration to think creatively about areas for cost savings and how to appropriately project costs and budget needs for FY26.
Brian Lynch, the Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations, worked closely with the subcommittee to review line item
budgets and adjust costs as the year progressed to position the district to properly estimate and plan to absorb high cost services. Mr.
Lynch also began working closely with all principals to ensure they understood building-based budgets and that allotted spending
was on track as the school year progressed.
A related and notable financial and operational success of 2025 was the approval and ratification of the latest three year contract
between the School Committee and the Canton Educators Association units A and E. This contract, which is effective September 1,
2025 - August 31, 2028, contains provisions for increased and fair compensation for our valued educators and opportunities for
continued collaboration between administration and teachers to best support students. The School Committee and the District were
represented on the CEA Contract Negotiating Committee by Chair Kimberly McCourt, Superintendent Derek Folan, and Assistant
Superintendent for Finance and Operations Brian Lynch and Personnel Services Director Julie Shore.
Several key staffing changes also came about in 2025. In July, Director of Student Services Sarah Shaw was appointed as the Interim
Superintendent of Schools, a position that was left vacant for the prior school year. Subsequently, she was selected to assume the
role in an official capacity in December of 2025. Ms. Shaw’s former role of Director of Student Services was filled in a part time,
interim capacity by Heidi Black, a seasoned educator who has held several instructional and administrative roles in districts including
Newton, Wellesley, and Medfield. Prior to her role in Canton, Ms. Black most recently served as the Director of Student Services at
Norfolk County Agricultural HS. Rounding out the team in the Student Services Department, Assistant Director of Student Services
Danielle Kay stepped into her role in August of 2025. Since then, the Student Services team has worked to maintain high quality
services and support for students and families utilizing special education services in Canton and through appropriate out-of-district
placements. This team has also worked closely with Assistant Superintendent Brian Lynch’s Finance and Operations team to
understand, track, and more accurately project special education costs, which are a primary cost center of the CPS budget.
The Committee was also pleased to approve an updated District Wellness Policy, which received its triennial update in 2025. This
year’s process was quite robust, as Canton Public Schools was accepted into the Massachusetts School Wellness Policy Coaching
Program (MSCWPCP) from Framingham State and the John C. Stalker Institute. This program enabled CPS to partner with a
wellness policy coach who collaboratively and fully reviewed the District’s Wellness Policy at no cost, and provided consultation
with DESE related to policy updates. As part of this process, CPS’s policy was recognized to be not only complete, but exemplary in
a number of areas. Key improvements to the policy in 2025 include: addition of language to educate students on the harmful effects
of energy drinks and to discourage the consumption of energy drink products at the middle and high school level, updates to
language about exceptions to fundraisers involving food during the school day, and updates to language around Smart Snack
Standards and Massachusetts Standards for Competitive Foods per DESE expectations. The policy review and update process was
led by CPS PreK-12 Wellness Coordinator Adam Hughes and was truly collaborative, with representatives from CPS faculty, Food
Services Director Maura Crowley, parents, and several members of the School Committee.
At the close of 2024, voters at the Canton Special Town Meeting yielded a remarkable show of support for the new Galvin Middle
School (GMS) build, with over 74% of the community supporting its construction. This vote enabled the School Committee and
CPS leadership to begin the project in earnest in 2025, utilizing the Construction Manager at Risk construction method and
accepting $74 million in MSBA funding to defray cost, accounting for approximately a third of the project’s overall bill.
67Source page 70
Accordingly, much of 2025 involved ongoing MSBA work for the School Committee, School Building Committee, and the
administrative team. The GMS 5-8 Working Group, chaired by Assistant Superintendent of Schools Sarah Shaw and GMS Principal
Jonathan Mulhern, also kicked off its work in 2025. This committee is working to identify and explore key issues surrounding the 5-
8 grade model of the new GMS and is undertaking site visits and informational interviews with representatives from other districts
with 5-8 middle schools. The Working Group has identified key areas of focus to include transportation, schedule, curriculum, and
student support.
We continued to work with GMS project partners LeftField (OPM), Ai3 (architectural firm), and Consigli (construction company),
and site preparation was conducted beginning in the summer of 2025. This included tree and stump removal and land grading in
preparation for geothermal well field installation, which will begin in summer 2026. A temporary loop road with light poles and fire
hydrants was also completed to allow site work to continue without impeding the public’s access to fields behind the GMS and the
school itself during construction.
In October, CPS successfully submitted to MSBA the 60% Construction Design documents, which detail 60% complete drawings
and specifications for the project and also include information on current cost estimates, permitting/building code compliance, and
site information. This is a key milestone in the project, and next steps include ongoing abutters meetings and ongoing review from
the Canton Planning and Zoning Boards, development of building signage and graphics, an Energy/EUI (Energy Use Intensity)
review with Eversource, and meeting with the Canton Historic Commission. All this work is moving the project forward toward the
next key milestone - the 90% document submission due to the MSBA on March 20, 2026.
Though much facility development work in 2025 focused on the GMS project, we are also proud to report that Canton was
accepted into the MSBA accelerated repair program for the Luce roof. Participation in this program will provide critical funding to
replace the roof and also enable the project to follow an efficient schedule.
Throughout all this work, the School Committee kept its focus on furthering the Strategic Plan. The four key areas of priorities and
strategies within the 2023-2028 Canton Public Schools Strategic Action Plan are the following: 1) Teaching, Learning, and Leading
for All; 2) Management and Operations; 3) Communication and Community Engagement; and 4) Safe, Inclusive and Equitable
Environments.
Aside from committee and subcommittee meetings, School Committee members are in regular contact with the public through in
person meetings, virtual meetings, emails and phone calls. Throughout the year, School Committee members attended multiple
public events to liaise with the community in general and also specifically about the progress of the Galvin Middle School Project.
To name a few weekend events at which School Committee members hosted a community table: Canton Heritage Festival, multiple
Canton Farmers Market days, and Cantonstock.
Under the School Committee umbrella are subcommittees and task forces in which members are assigned; including Budget and
Finance, Policy, and Communications. The School Committee also reviews the CPS financial warrants. Additionally, members serve
as liaisons to parent volunteer and educational leadership groups, including the Canton Association of Parents and Teachers
(CAPT), The Education Cooperative (TEC), and the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC).
Community involvement for the School Committee includes participation/appointments to many local boards and groups, including
the Master Plan Implementation Committee (MPIC), Canton Community Preservation Committee (CCPC), Building Renovation
Committee (BRC), Canton Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee (CDEI), Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse
(CAASA), and the CPS Student Wellness Advisory Committee (SWAC). Leading up to the Annual Town Meeting each year, the
School Committee presents to the Select Board, Finance Committee, and Capital Planning Committee.
CLOSING
The Canton Public Schools have a true commitment to achieving academic excellence and ensuring equity for every student, as well
as cultivating welcoming and supportive learning environments via effective teaching, learning, and leading, and by smartly managing
our resources. We are deeply proud of our schools and grateful for every member of our student body, faculty, volunteer groups,
families, and town citizenry who play a role in our success.
With this continued support and unwavering commitment to accomplishing our bold, student-centric goals, the Canton Public
Schools are positioned for continued growth - ever-improving how we prepare our next generation for their futures. It is an honor
to be stewards of this important work.
68Source page 71
Report of the
TOWN CLERK
Tracy K. Kenney, Town Clerk 801 Washington St.
Gale M. McHugo, Assistant Town Clerk Canton, MA 02021
Patrice Wesner, Senior Clerk Telephone 781-821-5013
Fax 781-821-5016
tkenney@town.canton.ma.us
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Friday 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
In January 2025 the Annual Town Census was mailed to 12,293 households in Canton. I would like to remind residents of the
importance of returning the Annual Town Census. Many of the funds allocated to the Town of Canton are dependent on our
reported population. The information obtained from the Town Census is also used to predict future student enrollment,
proof of residence and voter lists. If you are a registered voter, responding to the census also insures that your voter status will
remain active. By law, failure to respond to the census shall result in removal from the active voting list and may result in
removal from the voter registration rolls.
The Annual Town Election was held in April. A total of 5,103 ballots were cast. The ballot contained two contested offices,
Select Board and Planning Board, along with a non-binding ballot question, as follows:
Should the Town of Canton hold annual municipal elections on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November, with the first annual
municipal election to start in a non-presidential election year?
During the week prior to the Annual Town Election 984 voters chose to take advantage of Early Voting by casting ballots in
person at Town Hall and 1,095 voters chose to vote by mail.
The Annual Town Meeting was held in Morse Auditorium at Canton High School on May 12th with 286 voters in attendance.
A Special Town Meeting was convened in August and voters approved an amend the Zoning By-law Section 9.1 “Floodplain
Overlay District” thereby bringing the Town into compliance with new FEMA regulations. The Special Town Meeting
convened with 52 voters in attendance.
I would like to express my appreciation to the administration and staff at the Department of Elder and Human Services,
the Canton Public Schools and Blue Hills Regional Technical School for, once again, allowing us to utilize their facilities for
voting on election day.
69Source page 72
According to the Annual Town Census, Canton’s population is 22,778. The number of registered voters in Canton totals
18,794, as follows.
Precinct Democrat Republican Unenrolled Other Registered
Voters
1 626 197 1,683 24 2,530
2 813 238 1,866 .27 2,944
3 592 199 1,629 24 2,444
4 604 281 1,752 18 2,655
5 575 236 1,826 16 2,653
6 704 211 1,764 23 2,702
7 738 238 1,863 27 2,866
Totals 4,652 1,600 12,383 159 18,794
In 2025 the Town Clerk’s Office recorded 232 births, 83 marriages and 290 deaths.
I invite you to explore the Town Clerk’s webpage for information regarding our services at www.town.canton.ma.us. Click on
“Government”, next “Departments” and then “Town Clerk”.
In conclusion I would like to express my sincere appreciation to my fellow town employees, our election workers and to the
citizens of Canton for their many kindnesses and cooperation during the year. I would also like to thank Assistant Town Clerk
Gale McHugo and Senior Clerk Patrice Wesner for their support and friendship.
70Source page 73
Three year terms
ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION
April 8, 2025
SELECT BOARD 1 2 3 5 6 7 TOTAL
OHN J. CONNOLLY. 225 342 130 289 362 195 277 1820
SUSAN G. HARRINGTON 384 474 424
Others
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71Source page 74
Report of the
TOWN PLANNER
Connor R. Murphy, Town Planner 801 Washington St.
https://town.canton.ma.us/334/Planning Canton, MA 02021
Telephone 781-575-6575
Fax 781-821-5043
cmurphy@town.canton.ma.us
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, Friday 8:30 AM
to 1:00 PM
MISSION
The Town Planner is responsible for working towards town-wide goals with regard to zoning, land use, housing, economic
development, transportation, sustainability, and other areas specified in the Canton Master Plan. The Town Planner also works
to help procure grants and accomplish other special projects to reach town goals.
The Town Planner supports the Planning Board by providing technical assistance when necessary, facilitating Master Plan
implementation, and preparing zoning articles for Town Meeting.
The Town Planner serves as the representative to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council and the Neponset Valley
Transportation Management Association; the Planner also serves on the Permit Advisory Committee, Canton Affordable
Housing Trust, and staffs the Master Plan Implementation Committee, Economic Development Committee, and the Planning
Board. The Town Planner organizes and facilitates project-based working groups as necessary.
ZONING AND LAND USE
Several Amendments this year were made to the Town’s Zoning Bylaws. The voters, at the Annual Town Meeting this past
May, approved amendments to the Town’s zoning text as it relates Design Guidelines for the Central Business District. The
Design Guidelines for the Central Business District which came from a 2023 study to improve the form, design, and viability
of mixed-use development in Canton Center. The Town Planner has been supporting the Planning Board, which acts as the
Design Review Board, in overseeing design changes within Canton Center.
The Planning Department further worked with Town Officials in amending the Town’s Zoning Text as it relates to floodplain
management regulations. At the August 4, 2025 Special Town Meeting, Canton Voters approved necessary changes to the
Zoning Bylaw that would meet FEMA standards.
The Planning Department in working with the Master Plan Implementation Committee, have updated the Action Items
contained with the Canton Master Plan 2035: Community, Commerce, Conservation. The update provides the town with an
inventory of what it has completed and helps re-align certain items that may have changed due to changes of the state stature,
the Affordable Homes Act and the MBTA Communities Act.
The Town Planner is also working with the Conservation Agent on updating the Town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan,
which is necessary in being able to apply for specific grant programs.
HOUSING
The Town Planner works closely with the Town’s Housing coordinator, and also serves on the Canton Affordable Housing
Trust (AHT). In working with the AHT and the Canton Housing Authority, Technical Assistance is sought in identifying
opportunities for additional affordable housing on land owned by the Canton Housing Authority. In using funds secured
through a Housing Choice Grant obtained in 2024, the Planning Department hired a consultant to perform a reuse study on
the Gridley School. The study was specifically tailored for an adaptive reuse of the existing structure and property for housing.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Town Planner works with the Economic Development Committee (EDC) on a monthly basis facilitating conversation on
improvements relative to the Towns commercial stock. These conversations have helped identify priority commercial areas in
Canton for studying the potential of Economic Growth. This information will further assist the Planning Department in
identifying future projects on possible grant offerings. The Town Planner continues to manage ARPA funds in support of
Small Business Digital Assistance Grant Program, administered b the Neponset River Regional Chamber.
72Source page 75
TRANSPORTATION
The Town Planner offers support to the Town’s overall transportation planning as it relates to grant applications and serving
as a liaison between several different entities at the state and local level. Transportation planning efforts include working with
regional collaborators on grant applications specific to last mile transportation, managing the Town’s rideshare revenue, and
identifying grant opportunities to improve the transportation infrastructure with the Town. The Town Planner also serves as
an advisor on regional collaboration for traffic impacts from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Planning Department also works
with the MBTA on upgrades to their bus route.
SUSTAINABILITY
The Town of Canton has several priorities as it relates to sustainability, and more specifically, energy aggregation and climate
action planning. The Town Planner has served as the Municipal Project Manager for the Towns MVP 2.0 Grant Program,
which is an 18-month process of working with the community in identifying the social impacts of climate change, specifically
in Canton. The Town Planner also manages the contract for an Energy Manger, which focuses on implementing portions of
the Town’s Climate Action Plan. The Planning Department oversees the Town’s compliance with the Green Communities
Act, and further procures available grant funding under Green Communities. The Town received $250,000 in September of
2025 for HVAC improvements at the Canton Senior Center, which will assist in subsidizing the Town’s capital commitment
for these improvements.
73Source page 76
Report of the
VETERANS SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Arafat M. Knight, Department of Veterans Services Director and Veteran’s Agent 660 Washington St.
Cynthia Maddestra, Town of Canton Veterans Agent Administrator Canton, MA 02021
Telephone: 781-821-5005
aknight@town.canton.ma.us
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:30-4:30 Tuesday 830-7pm Friday 8:30-1:00
In 2025 Canton Veterans’ Services continued to provide emergency financial assistance, outreach, and referrals to health and
supportive services for veterans and their families. We also helped with filing VA claims for veterans and their families. The
department focused on increasing outreach to younger veterans, and finding resources to allow veterans to spend time with
each other away from the coffee social. We worked on improving claims assistance by following up with the VA, and
expanding community partnerships to address housing and mental health needs.
Our Mission is to gain better access to community resources for veterans and their families. Our outreach goes beyond the
state of Mass, as we have helped veterans and their families as far as the State of Florida to provide resources to those in need.
2025 VETERANS OUTREACH
We here have an open-door policy – veterans can come in whenever, and as needed.
Coffee Social @ Department of Elder and Human Services, 1st Thursday of every month.
Brightview Social, quarterly
How does the DOVS outreach and help our local Veterans?
• DOVS will go on Hospital/Home well visit, rehab or in hospice care visits to local Veterans. They also will
check in and chat with lonely Veterans who need support.
• Assist Veterans with Computer, Phone, Banking issues.
• Helped Veterans type out letters to appeal when needed, worked on resumes with them and helped Veterans
apply for jobs on line.
• Kept track of Veterans looking for employment
• Brought Veterans to our Food Pantry and help him/her get set up.
• Give Veterans gift cards if they need anything from groceries to CVS cards when available. (community sends
department donations for pharmacy, grocery stores)
• Collected sweaters, hats, gloves to distribute to Veterans in the community.
• Organized rides for veterans to bank, doctors, food pantry.
• Helped Veterans with processing their Veteran ID cards.
• Liaison between local newspaper The Canton Citizen and Veterans to help tell their stories. Took and Sent
photos to be published.
• Maintained our Facebook page and TOC website to keep community up to date with Veteran news and
upcoming events.
• Maintained calendars, screen calls, take messages
• Checked mail, kept track of donations, deposited checks/cash, wrote and sent Thank you to those who
donated.
• Filed Claims, Aid and Attendance, disability. Collected al the paperwork, scanned and filed.
• Contacted Honor Guard to attend funerals, we had over 25 this past year.
• Ordered grave markers for Veterans who have passed, while maintaining a list of those who left us.
• Worked with medical staff, attorneys and funeral homes to help families with medical situations, the burial
process and benefits.
74Source page 77
• Work directly with The DOEHS in helping our local Veterans – rides, food vouchers, visitations, moving
• Help Veterans and family find wheelchairs, walkers, necessities if needed. Also, have helped Veterans get
ramps installed from a local company that donates their time!
The Home Town Banners
Over 300 hung high this past year.
2025 CEREMONIES AND EVENTS
Movie Night at the Legion,
Valentines Coffee Social
Norfolk County VSO and Administrator Brunch
Movie Night at the Legion
Worked with Wreaths by Nicole to give families a chance to turn uniforms into wreaths, one family ordered 4!
May 6 Veterans Golf Invites. Designed, printed and mailed
May 7 Uniforms of our Heroes Exhibit
May 18 Placing of the flags
May 20 Point 2 Health Placing of the flags
May 26 Memorial Day Parade
July 5 MVSO Conference for DOVS
June 25 Cape Cod Central Railroad Adventure 30 Veterans/Guest
June 28 American Legion Golf
July 16 DOVS Practice run to Fall River, met with the VSO, organized upcoming trip
July 19 Battleship Cove & Lunch @St James Irish Pub 22 of us
July 30th DOVS practice Run to Worcester
Aug 7 Woosox Game 18 Veterans
Aug 15 Deep Sea Fishing 3 Veterans
Aug 19 Andreotti/Eckler Golf Tournament
Sept 4 Coffee Social with Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office
Sept 15 American Heritage Museum 12 Veterans
Oct 20 -23 Conference
Oct 27 Trick or trunk
Nov 10 Veterans Day Luce, Kennedy Clark School
Nov 10 Veterans visit Cobbs Corner Asst Living
Nov 12 Luncheon Veterans Day Canton Town Club
Nov 15 House to House Worked with The Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office
Nov 25 Thanksgiving Dinner at DOEHS
Dec 9 Ole Glory Millworks field trip
Dec 10 Christmas DOEHS party
Dec 16 Veterans Inc Donation
Dec 17 Clarke School Christmas gifts
Dec 19 Placing of the Wreaths
HONOR GUARD FUNERALS
Our all-volunteer Honor Guard was privileged to offer Military Honors as a show of respect at the funerals of 25+ local veterans
in 2025. Since 2002, we have been honored to offer this tribute to over 950 veterans.
DONATIONS RECEIVED
In 2025, the not-for-profit Canton Veterans’ Fund received numerous donations, @$17,500
BENEFIT CLAIMS PROCESSES
In 2025 There were 55 VA claims processed
RETURN OF VETERAN’S BENEFITS
In 2025, more than $100,000.00 was reimbursed to the Town by the state for benefits paid out through the MA Ch. 115 assistance
program to qualifying Canton Veterans and their surviving dependents.
75Source page 78
VETERANS SERVICES OFFICER CERTIFICATION
Our Veterans Services Director and Administrator, Arafat M. Knight, and Cynthia Maddestra has been certified by the state and
attended over a dozen different meetings in different sections of Mass, and via zoom as required.
We would like to thank our partners this year in allowing us to have a successful year, in 2025 we had over 200 sponsors who
helped us accomplish our goals for 2025.
We appreciate All the departments in the town of Canton working with, it has allowed us to be an example to other VSO’s in
the state.
Canton Roll of Honor
Honoring Those Who Died
In Service to Their Country
World War I: Edward J. Beatty, Patrick J. Cronin, Ettore DelVecchio, Allan W. Douglass, Josiah Fuller, Pietro Gallo, Albert H,
Gavigan, Leo V. Gray, Helen Homans, George H. Horton, William P. Monahan, John Shaw, Arthur W. Thomas, George St.
George;
World War II: Walter G. Berteletti, Albert M. Callahan, Michael J. Callanan, William J. Casey, Robert G. Dallahan, Parker B.
Dodge, Donald J. Galligan, John J. Gately, Robert E. Gelpke, Donald J. Graham, John F. Griffin, Dana F. Igo, Michael J. Julian,
John A. Lawrie, Louis P. Mendes, Carlyle W. Packard, Frederick W. Powers, Dietrich F. E. Rasetzki, William F. Roach, Harold
P. Rolfe, Gerald W. Scully, Arthur A. Smith, Arthur W. Thomas, Harris P. Tracy, Andrew R. Wood, Jr.;
Korean War: Ferdinand Berteletti, Ernest Carrara, Paul J. Hannon;
Vietnam War: Rudolph E. Araujo, Antonio Falco, Peter H. Hansen, Bruce J. Matta;
Iraq War: Shayne M. Cabino;
Post-Vietnam (Agent Orange-Related Deaths): Robert J. Barrette, Richard D. Buck, Thomas F. Doherty, David L. Farrow,
Robert F. Femino, William J. Hogan, Kevin J. Kelly, Kevin F. LaCivita, Lance D. LeFever, Richard A. MacPhail, Robert W.
Redmond, David A. Schnopp, Anthony D. Uliano, Paul E. Weiderhold, William J. Weiderhold.
76Source page 79
Report of the
WATER AND SEWER RATE POLICY COMMITTEE
William R. Scollins III, Chairman 801 Washington St.
rscollins@town.canton.ma.us 781-575-6612
Canton, MA 02021
Dan Cole Fax 781-575-6608
C. David Emhardt/Adam Nichols Walter Spiegel / Tom Birmingham
Michael Jerrier Chris Sykes
Joseph Ridge Mike Trotta
Meetings of the committee are called as needed. The committee met in 2025 to develop recommendations on water and sewer
rates.
After reviewing and discussing a detailed analysis of water & sewer rate drivers the committee developed a rate
recommendation for the Select Board, which they voted to adopt. The unanimous recommendation and vote of the
Committee was to leave rates unchanged in fiscal 2025, but to implement a 5% water rate increase and a 5% sewer rate
increase, effective July 1, 2025. The rates adopted are consistent with the goals established during the previous years’ review
of the needs of the Water and Sewer Enterprise funds.
The major factors necessitating this action are the following:
• A trend of declining water consumption;
• Increased MWRA assessments, which are 27% of Water Enterprise expenses;
• Increased debt service costs, which are 35% of Water Enterprise expenses;
• The Town has only increased water rates six times over the previous twelve years.
• All of these factors have combined to deplete the Water Enterprise fund balance, which needs to be restored.
The Committee also began to study the impact of not “unit-factoring” (dividing the volume of water by the number of units and then
running those lower average volumes through the inclining block rate structure) congregate living facilities that only have a master meter for
the entire complex. Unit-factoring would reduce water bills consistent with condominiums that have a master meter, but are
unit- factored.
The concept of unit-factoring all congregate living facilities was discussed with the Select Board. The Select Board then
directed this advisory Committee to refine the analysis and return in 2026 with a recommendation on how to possibly equalize
water bills for all water customers. The Committee is currently working with a new consultant to study the impacts, which are
significant in terms of revenue loss and lower water bills for owners of these complexes that aren’t unit-factored.
We expect to return to the Select Board with findings and a recommendation in April of 2026. The larger challenge with
implementing a consistent unit-factoring methodology is that there is no guarantee that the landlords and owners of these
facilities will pass any savings on to those occupying these living spaces.
Conversely, the Sewer Enterprise fund has been able to maintain a strong financial position, even with only four rate increases
over the last 12 years. However, with planned increased investment in Sewer infrastructure modest rate increases will be
required to maintain financial sufficiency.
77Source page 80
Report of the
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Gregory L. Pando, Chairman 801 Washington St.
Michael Khoury, Member Canton, MA 02021
Brian C. Black, Member Telephone 781-575-6589
Matthew Carleton, Alternate Fax 781-575-6574
Barbara Saint Andre, Alternate zba@town.canton.ma.us
Tamra Stock & Ingrid Hartfiel, Administrative Assistants and Recording Secretaries
Office Hours: Monday 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM, Tuesday 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Wednesday and Thursday 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM, and
Friday 7:30 AM-1:00 PM.
2025 was a busy year for the Zoning Board of Appeals. The Zoning Board of Appeals conducted 53 formal hearings. There
were 23 informal hearings consisting mainly of applications for signs/banners, request for extensions to prior decisions, and
minor modifications to site plans and previously approved decisions. We anticipate that zoning changes to State Law, enacted
during the 2024 & 2025 State Legislative Session will create an increase in demand for zoning hearings in 2026 with respect to
both the creation of an MBTA (Section 3a) Multi-Family Zone and the addition of Accessory Dwelling Units to all single
family residential districts.
The Board wishes to express its appreciation to their support staff, including Building Commissioner Ed Walsh,
Administrative Assistants and Recording Secretaries, Tamra Stock and Ingrid Hartfiel, Town Planner, Connor Murphy, and
Housing Coordinator Kevin Shea, all who provided the Board with the assistance necessary to make 2025 meaningful and
constructive for the Residents of the Town of Canton.
The Board would also like to thank the Select Board, Town Administrator Charles Doody, the Planning Board, the
Engineering Department, the Conservation Commission and the Board of Assessors for all of their assistance and support
during the year.
I would personally like to thank my colleagues on the Board: Michael Khoury, Brian Black, Matthew Carleton, and Barbara
Saint Andre for another great year. Their knowledge, experience, dedication, and hard work are the qualities that have
contributed to the Zoning Board of Appeals significant accomplishments in the year 2025.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge the passing of Paul B. Carroll, former Chairman of the Board of Appeals. Paul’s guidance
and dedication set the gold standard for our board and his memory will continue to provide exemplary guidance for our Work
in the years to come
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