Planning Board Grants Historical Society Temporary CO
The Southborough Planning Board voted to grant a temporary certificate of occupancy to the Southborough Historical Society's 40-42 Central Street headquarters.
Planning Board · Meeting of January 12, 2026
SOUTHBOROUGH — The Southborough Planning Board voted to grant a temporary certificate of occupancy to the Southborough Historical Society's 40-42 Central Street headquarters. Town Planner Karina G. Quinn, P.E. said she had no evidence the parking lot, ADA ramp and signage matched the 2023 approved site plan, citing a missing granite berm and a relocated ramp.
Society President Michael Weishan said the four-year renovation is now close to $3 million, calling it "a million dollars over budget." Town Counsel Jay said Dover Amendment protections do not exempt the project from site plan compliance. The permit expires May 1 unless the society files a complete modification application with as-built plans by April 8 and gives 30-day updates. Board member Marnie Houlihan told Weishan, "You don't trust us." The board also voted 5-0 to approve an Approval Not Required plan for a nine-acre Northborough Road parcel.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 850 words
Source: the Planning Board meeting of January 12, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
Members read the rest of this story and every Southborough meeting we cover, in full.
Become a memberAlready a member? Sign inA 30-day free trial needs a payment method. After it, your membership renews at the price shown at checkout until you cancel, which you can do anytime from your account. Subscription terms
Share this story
Know someone in Southborough who follows town government? Share Townbrief Southborough: they can sign up free.