Park and Recreation Commission votes 3-2 against Haskell Field solar canopy

SUDBURY — April 13, 2026 — Sudbury Park and Recreation Commission votes 3-2 to oppose Haskell Field solar canopy at Town Meeting. Members Bobby Beagan, Granger Atkeson and Ben Carmel voted no on Article 34; Chair Mara Huston and Vice-Chair Laurie Eliason voted yes. Developer Byron Woodman said the 1.27-megawatt DC project would save the town roughly $92,000 in year one and about $2.1 million over 25 years with no upfront capital cost. Carmel said unresolved questions about Article 97, change-in-use status and the commission's authority under MGL Chapter 45 made the project too uncertain to support: "Until that occurs, my vote's no." The commission unanimously authorized Carmel to send a formal legal questionnaire to town counsel. Commissioners also voted 5-0 to approve a modified Feeley Field fencing plan — removing 120 feet of fence to preserve neighborhood sledding — pending input from Sudbury Softball. The Atkinson Pool closes April 30 and is expected to reopen June 1.