SELCO Receives Clean Audit Opinion, Approves DPU Report Ahead of May Deadline

SHREWSBURY — April 28, 2026 — Shrewsbury's municipal utility SELCO received a clean audit opinion and approved its DPU annual report at the April 28 commission meeting. Baker Tilly directors Dan and Bethany, presenting for the second consecutive year, reported that both the electric and cable departments received unmodified opinions — the highest level of assurance available — and that SELCO's internal control classification improved from a material weakness to the lesser category of significant deficiency. Jim Zocco, director of finance and administration, reported electric net income of approximately $2.9 million for 2025, though he noted the figure was elevated by a delayed rate stabilization fund transfer from 2024; underlying operating net income was closer to $700,000 to $800,000. The cable department finished 8 percent under budget on expenses, producing operating income roughly 82 percent above plan, driven by deferred customer device spending during the ongoing fiber transition. The commission also voted unanimously to award three $1,000 scholarships to Sabrina Welch, Sophia McLaughlin, and Florence Coup, and heard a tricentennial planning update from Nicole Torres, vice chair of the Shrewsbury 300th Anniversary Celebration Committee, who outlined four capstone events for 2026 and 2027 and invited the commission — already a presenting sponsor — to claim naming rights to the kickoff, fireworks show, or parade before marketing materials are finalized.