Since you mention problems with water in Holliston you may want to know the facts. I've lived in Holliston since `78.
We did have issues in town. One issue was due to paint crew that showed up on the job before they were supposed to and started to paint an area outside one of the water treatment plants. The paint fumes were pulled in to the air vents that put air in the water. This was not a problem with the water as much as it is with someone else poor planning. THe plant needed to be shut down before the work started period end of story.
Another issue with water is an issue you will see anywhere with bacteria levels that were out of norm. The issue was handled in a mannor.
On both occasions the town used their revers 911 system to notify effected households. This problem could occur anywhere it is nice to know the town has such a system.
As for "Mom" program, Holliston is a close nit town. There are a lot of activities you can be part of.
Hopkinton vs. Holliston is a good question. Hopkinton has just recently gained value in the town. Likely due to EMC since they have a number over very large facilites in the area and Hopkinton is right off the highway.
There are parades and events but I would not say they are selling points of the town. This is more of a traditional New England town.
We would love to have you as a neighbor come on in. Oh by the way Holliston is typically a hard town to move in to. The schools have been rated high and often keeps the values up in town.
Welcome to City-Data.com forum! Make sure to register - it's free and very quick! You have to register before you can post and participate in our discussions with 700,000 other registered members. User profiles and some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your free account you will be able to customize many options, you will have the full access to over 15,000 posts/day about local topics and you will see fewer ads. 
What's going on in Hopkinton and Holliston?
Linear Mode
