The Hudson Board of Selectmen will continue the work of its Policy Subcommittee for another year, reaffirming the group’s role in reviewing, updating, and modernizing the town’s internal policies. With the recent addition of a Human Resources Generalist, the committee is expected to take on a more structured and efficient approach to policy oversight.
Town Administrator Roy Sorenson reminded the Board that the subcommittee was originally formed at the Sept. 3, 2024 meeting to create a more consistent and collaborative process for policy review. The structure includes two Selectmen, the Town Administrator, and relevant department heads depending on the policy under consideration.
Over the past year, Selectmen Heidi Jakoby and Xen Vurgaropulos have served as the Board’s representatives on the committee. Sorenson noted that with the March election complete, it was an appropriate time to reassign members for the coming year and strengthen the committee’s capacity.
He recommended adding newly hired Human Resources Generalist Michelle Brewster, explaining that her expertise would be especially valuable as the town continues to update personnel-related policies.
“At this time, it would be prudent for the Board to reassign members to this committee to continue with much needed work in this area, notwithstanding adding Michelle Brewster, HR Generalist, to the group as well,” Sorenson said.
Board Chair Dillon Dumont praised the progress made over the past year, noting that the committee had successfully worked through a significant number of policies that had not been updated in years.
Jakoby said she was eager to continue serving, especially now that the town has a dedicated HR professional to help guide policy revisions. Vurgaropulos also expressed willingness to remain on the committee for another year.
The Board unanimously approved reappointing Jakoby and Vurgaropulos, and formally added Brewster to the Policy Subcommittee. With the expanded membership, officials expect the committee to accelerate its review of outdated policies and ensure that new ones align with best practices.
In other business, the Board reviewed a request from Natilie Newell, President of the Friends of Benson Park (FOBP), seeking approval for several special events planned for 2026. Under the town’s 2012 Semi-Exclusive Use Agreement, FOBP must obtain written consent from the Board of Selectmen before hosting activities at Benson Park.
Sorenson outlined the proposed events, which include a mix of educational programs, family activities, and community entertainment:
- Hike to Haselton Barn: date to be determined
- Hike Thru History: May 9, 10, 17, 23, 24, 29, and 30, from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
- Children’s “Hiking Stick” Activity: May 2, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Yankee Brass Band Concert: July 24, tentative start time 6 p.m.
Sorenson emphasized that FOBP is responsible for coordinating any logistical needs with town staff.
“Further, it shall be the responsibility of FOBP to communicate with Town staff and/or Public Works as the events draw closer and to act in accordance with the agreement notwithstanding maintenance of premises and standard of conduct,” he said.
The Board unanimously approved the full slate of events, noting that Benson Park continues to be one of Hudson’s most popular community spaces and that FOBP’s programming helps maintain public engagement with the historic property.