Entering Tyngsborough

Episode 29: Why Tyngsborough Needs a New Fire Station

Tyngsborough Fire Chief Wes Russell and Select Board member Adele Coughlin discuss why the town is asking voters to consider a new fire station at the former Winslow School site. The conversation explains the operational limits of the current fire station, health and safety concerns for firefighters, why renovation was studied but not recommended, and how the proposed 19,000 square foot design was developed. The current estimated project cost is $24 million, including construction, design, and project management. Residents will vote at Annual Town Meeting on May 5, with a ballot vote to follow on May 19. You can learn more about this project by visiting the Fire Building Committee Page on the Town of Tyngsborough Website: https://www.tyngsboroughma.gov/606/Fire-Station-Building-Committee [https://www.tyngsboroughma.gov/606/Fire-Station-Building-Committee] This episode is part of the Entering Tyngsborough civic conversation series, designed to help residents better understand local decisions before Town Meeting.

Episode 28: Matthew DeCiero on Animal Control, Wildlife and Responsible Pet Ownership in Tyngsborough

Tyngsborough Animal Control Officer Matthew DeCiero explains leash laws, wildlife calls, pet licensing, coyotes, and what residents should know about animal safety in town. In this episode of Entering Tyngsborough, residents get a closer look at how animal control works behind the scenes, from loose dogs and dangerous dog hearings to bobcats, weasels, and seasonal wildlife concerns. In this episode: • What animal control officers handle day to day • How stray animals are processed and returned home • Tyngsborough leash law explained • What happens during dangerous dog investigations• Wildlife calls involving bobcats, weasels and coyotes • Pet licensing and rabies requirements • Tips for reducing wildlife attractants around your home 00:00 Introduction and Meet Matthew DeCiero 00:57 How Matthew Entered Animal Control 02:54 From Local Media to Animal Control Work 07:06 What a Typical Day Looks Like 09:42 What Happens When Animal Control Takes Custody of an Animal 13:34 Unusual Calls: Goats, Peacocks and More 15:40 Barn Inspections Explained 18:36 Handling Aggressive Animals and Dangerous Dog Hearings 22:36 Understanding Tyngsborough’s Leash Law 25:46 Responsible Pet Ownership and Licensing 30:54 Wildlife Calls in Tyngsborough 31:09 Bobcat Encounter in Town 34:22 Weasels, Bears and Wildlife Around Homes 38:14 Preventing Wildlife Conflicts on Your Property 40:28 Coyotes, Seasonal Safety and Contact Information 📍 Contact Tyngsborough Animal Control through the non-emergency police line or town website. 📍 Follow Chelmsford-Tyngsborough Animal Control on Facebook for updates and lost pet notices.

Episode 27: Leading Tyngsborough Public Schools with Dr. Mike Flanagan

In Episode 26 of Entering Tyngsborough, host Rony Camille sits down with Tyngsborough Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Mike Flanagan to discuss the direction of the district. They talk about the new middle school, district priorities, classroom innovation, student support, and the challenges facing public education in Tyngsborough. Dr. Flanagan also reflects on his journey from classroom teacher to superintendent and what he notices when visiting schools across the district. For parents, residents, and anyone invested in local education, this episode offers a candid look at how Tyngsborough Public Schools are doing and where they are headed.

Episode 26: FY27 Budget Explained - Financial Health, Deficit & Path Forward

Tyngsborough's Town Manager Colin Loiselle joins host Rony Camille to break down Tyngsborough's fiscal year 2027 budget and address the projected $2 million deficit. Learn about the financial health of the town, what's driving costs, and how the town plans to balance the budget by May. In this episode, we discuss: * The $2 million budget gap and what it means for residents * How Proposition 2½ limits municipal revenue growth * The 25% health insurance increase impacting town finances * State aid challenges and the 351 for 351 initiative * School budget negotiations and collaboration * Capital needs and debt service for the new middle school * Zero-based budgeting approach to find savings * Why Tyngsborough maintains a single tax rate * How residents can get involved in the budget process Colin explains the difference between a one-year deficit and structural deficits that neighboring communities have faced for years. Despite current challenges, Tyngsborough's strong reserves, excellent bond rating, and conservative budgeting approach position the town well compared to peer communities. Key Takeaway: Get involved! Attend budget office hours in late March and early April to understand how your tax dollars are spent and provide input on town priorities. Visit TyngsboroughMA.go [https://www.tyngsboroughma.gov/610/Town-Managers-Fiscal-Year-2027-Budget]v for budget documents, presentations, and office hours schedule

Episode 25: Veterans Day Reflections with Chris Dery

This Veterans Day, Tyngsborough Veteran Services Officer Chris Dery reflects on 23 years of military service and the work his office does to support local veterans and their families. He talks about the transition from active duty to civilian life, the importance of mental health awareness, and how simple acts of kindness can make a difference year-round. Recorded in November 2025, this episode highlights how communities can honor and support those who served—beyond just one day in November. Produced by Tyngsborough Media.