The meeting also saw the board tackle a issue regarding Article 25, a communication from the Board of Water Commissioners that could alter commercial development regulations in certain zones. Board members highlighted the need for improved communication and the importance of understanding the district’s stance on the matter. This prompted a decision to arrange a meeting with the water district for a more discussion.

In the realm of public service, the meeting featured the approval of appointments, including Elena Christopher to the Council on Aging and Jeremy Pierce as the alternate Plumbing and Gas Inspector. Cole Kefir was also approved for the seasonal lifeguard position. The board’s unanimous decisions on these appointments reflect their support for community volunteers and the efficient functioning of local services.

John Bowen, a candidate for the cemetery commissioner position, utilized the public comment segment to advocate for a reform of the cemetery commission. He proposed that the commission become a corporation under IRS code 501 C13, which would allow it to receive donations and independently manage cemetery resources. Bowen also called for a transfer of control from the Town Manager to the Conservation Commission and highlighted concerns about the commission’s integrity and alleged preferential treatment in cemetery regulations. His comments led to a brief board discussion on the appropriateness of campaigning during public comments.

The board approved the revenue turnover policy with amendments that adjusted the threshold amount and made provisions for specific departments. Updates on the status of capital plan projects for FY 24 were provided, with most projects completed and only the kitchen remodel for the senior center and the chimney project remaining. The facilities director was confirmed to continue with these projects.

The board’s involvement in community fundraising was demonstrated by the approval of a toll booth fundraiser request for the Boys and Girls Club of Lunenburg, which coincided with the same night as the cruise night. This event followed the successful “Are You Smarter Than Our Sixth Graders” event by the Boys and Girls Club, which raised over $24,000 and featured board members on the winning team.

Regarding town infrastructure and services, there were updates on various projects, including the delay in delivery of a six-wheeled dump truck and a 10-wheeler and a generator due to a back-ordered fuel pump. Progress was reported on the Ritter ADA ramp, public safety building drainage design, and senior center HVAC updates, while the Brooks house and senior center roof replacement remained ongoing.

The meeting also introduced a proposed PTO request for an experience award to recognize students engaged in public service-related activities, with suggestions for the recipients to be presented with a symbolic key to the town. Furthermore, the board reviewed a surplus property disposal policy, in line with Massachusetts General Law, for items valued under $10,000, which the board supported.

Lastly, the board grappled with the timeline for the town manager evaluation process, acknowledging the challenge given the limited time before the contract completion date. Additionally, the board responded to the finance committee’s request for information on the financial impact of senior tax relief and discussed a bill awaiting the governor’s approval, which required revisions. The scheduling of the next meeting was debated, considering room availability and potential conflicts with other committee meetings.