Chief’s Corner

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar

Dudley Police Department

            The Dudley District Court, located at the intersection of West Main Street (Route 197) and Lyons Road, is one of the busiest courthouses in Worcester County.  A large volume of civil and criminal cases are processed through there each day.  I wanted to take an opportunity to advise residents, and others who may use this facility, of some recent parking changes in the area.
            With the increase in court activity over the years, the Dudley District Court had outgrown its original capacity.  People parking on the streets created a hazard.  Emergency vehicles and others found it difficult to maneuver at times.  Parking was restricted to the southbound side of the road to alleviate some of the problem.  The court recently underwent renovation and greatly expanded its parking capacity.  This virtually eliminated the need for on street parking for court business.  A significant amount of development in this area has also taken place.
            At their July 24th meeting, the Dudley Board of Selectmen approved the posting of no parking signs on the southbound side of the road in the general area adjacent to the court.  The original suggestion was brought forward by Clerk Magistrate Candito and I concurred with this recommendation.  Elimination of parking will provide clearer sight lines for residents and those using the area for court and other business.  There will also be added room for emergency vehicles and larger trucks.
            I thank Judge Snider and Mr. Candito and the other Dudley Court personnel who worked very hard for a long time to expand the court parking.  I can echo Mr. Candito's comments regarding the residents of the area being very patient over the last several years while the court worked to correct this situation.  We wish to thank everyone for their cooperation.  Please make note of the changes if you are using the court or other nearby facilities and take the appropriate parking measures.  Violators will be subject to fines and or removal of their vehicle. 

       I wish to take a moment to thank President Murphy and the staff at Nichols College for hosting the Town Employees on the annual Dudley Appreciation Day.  The event took place on Tuesday July 25^th at the college dining hall.  It was a great opportunity for Town employees to gather together and socialize with the members of the college staff.  A good time was had by all and I thank the college for carrying on this traditional get together.

            I extend thanks to the residents of Joshua Place for inviting my wife and I to attend their summer cookout on Thursday July 27^th.  It was fun gathering together with all the residents, members of the housing authority, and the numerous local dignitaries, and invited guests.  One of the highlights of the evening was the singing performances of Selectmen Steve Sullivan and yours truly.  We both felt this was a designed move to clear out the crowd, but remarkably, nearly everyone stayed.  Once again, thanks to all who sponsored and participated in this fun evening.

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