A board member began by reflecting on their tenure, emphasizing the challenges and slow learning curve associated with their role. They highlighted the difficulties faced by town employees, noting that many were overburdened and under-resourced. “We are in large part failing them,” the member stated, pointing out specific vacancies and the resultant delays in town services. This sentiment was echoed by another member who, despite a recent personal medical issue, committed to advocating for staff concerns and reviewing recently passed policies for potential violations.

During the public comment period, a resident named Ronda Lissia criticized the board’s decision to spend $155,000 on a search firm for the town manager position. John Bowen, another resident, expressed frustration with the board members’ emotional attachment to the town, arguing that personal affection alone does not guarantee effective governance.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the controversial public communication policy, specifically the motion to repeal policy number 2.13, which had been perceived as rushed and poorly considered. One board member criticized the policy as hasty and inappropriate, calling for its repeal. Another member defended the policy, citing the potential for legal liabilities if not acted upon.

Several residents voiced their frustrations about the board’s handling of policy 2.13, with one newcomer to the town accusing specific board members of undermining transparency and stifling whistleblowers. Another resident, George Burton, called for a member to step down, criticizing their perceived dishonesty and its impact on the community. Former board member Paula Bertram defended the current Select Board, urging respect and understanding of the challenges they face.

Kristos Ladas, representing the local firefighters, reported morale issues within the fire department, criticizing superficial attempts to address these concerns and calling for genuine dialogue and solutions. This sentiment of dissatisfaction was a recurring theme throughout the public comments, reflecting deep-seated grievances about the board’s leadership and operational practices.

Interim Town Manager Carter Terenzini provided several updates, including the retirement of Chief of Police Thomas Gaml, resignations from two other volunteers, and ongoing staffing challenges. He also highlighted a partnership with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MRPC) to provide planning staff support and discussed updates on trash and recycling services, the library solar shade project, and the town’s administrative efficiency.

A significant concern was raised regarding the implementation of the new software upgrade, Munus, which had been problematic. The software issues had resulted in incorrect billing runs, causing operational challenges and requiring manual corrections. This ongoing problem underscored the town’s administrative inefficiencies and the need for resolution.

The board also discussed procedural matters, such as the Agricultural Commission’s request to host a community event and the continuation of a public hearing regarding the conversion and sale of land under Chapter 61B. The board voted unanimously to waive the right of first refusal on specific lots, emphasizing the importance of involving all relevant committees in future processes to avoid delays.

Chapan Motors’ request to amend their Class 2 motor vehicle license was another topic of discussion. The board approved the amendment. This decision was part of the board’s broader efforts to streamline processes and improve operational efficiency.

The meeting also addressed the town manager’s salary range and the recruitment of a firm specializing in town manager searches. The board emphasized the importance of timely communication and proactive planning to avoid losing allocated funds, particularly in light of the capital plan and the necessity of having funds under agreement by a set date.

Public comments continued with residents criticizing the board’s handling of ARPA funds and the resignation of the Town Manager. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, highlighting the ongoing challenges and responsibilities facing the Lunenburg Select Board.