Grand View Farm Advisory Committee Presents $25k Gift

The Grand View Farm renovation project got a big boost at last night's Board of Selectmen meeting.

Many members of the Grand View Farm Advisory Committee were in attendance, with a large check in hand, to present the town with a $25,000 donation to go towards the fourth phase of the project.

Committee member Nick Rubino, who spoke for the group, said the members were happy with the progress that has been made thus far, and that they are all eager to see the finished result.

"We have worked long and hard for over 10 years to raise funds and awareness of this important project and to keep it moving forward," Rubino said. "Now we can see the finish line."

Assistant Town Administrator Thomas Hickey, who has long worked on the Grand View project, explained that the funds will be used to engage the services of a landscaping architect to complete the plans for the farm and bring them to the planning board and conservation commission for approval."

Hickey added the current work will be completed by December.

Members of the board were both appreciative of the donation and applauded the committees efforts for this project that is a great landmark for the town.

"Thank you very much," Selectman Walter Zenkin said. "This couldn't have come at a better time, there is a lot of enthusiasm for the project right now and good momentum and we want to keep it moving forward."

"I'd like to thank this group and everyone who has been involved with the Grand View project," Selectman Robert Hogan added.

"Thank you very much for this gift," Board Chair Ralph Patuto said. "You are all very dedicated to this project and that is just incredible."