Reading Municipal Light Department Board Discusses Delayed Power Supply Analysis and Executive Session Controversy
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Meeting Type:
Utility Board
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Meeting Date:
09/11/2024
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Recording Published:
09/11/2024
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Duration:
25 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Reading
- Meeting Overview:
The Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) Board meeting focused heavily on the delay in receiving a detailed power supply analysis and the legality of moving into an executive session to discuss performance-related topics.
The most significant portion of the meeting centered around a discussion of a delayed power supply analysis. Originally requested on August 19th, the board had expected the analysis to be presented by September 24th. However, during the meeting, it was revealed that the analysis would not be ready until September 20th. This delay has been a point of contention, as board members emphasized the importance of having sufficient time to review the data before the public presentation. One member expressed frustration, noting that it has already been four weeks since the motion was made, and stressed the need for the analysis to be provided in writing well in advance of the public session.
Another topic was the debate over whether to move into an executive session to discuss performance-related items. The board had received conflicting guidance on this matter. Initially, there was an intention to discuss certain performance-related issues in executive session. One board member referred to an email from the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) recommending that the topics be handled in an open meeting format. In contrast, another legal opinion suggested that discussing sensitive topics, such as performance evaluations and trade secrets, warranted an executive session.
After much discussion, it was decided to move into executive session, based on legal advice that emphasized the importance of confidentiality for certain items. It was noted that executive session minutes could be released later if deemed appropriate.
The board also touched on the importance of following proper legal procedures and ensuring transparent communication between members and legal advisors. The emphasis was on adhering to laws and processes to maintain the integrity of the board’s decisions and actions.
Matt Kraunelis
Utility Board Officials:
Philip B. Pacino, David Talbot, Robert Coulter, Marlena Bita, Pam Daskalakis, Erica Morse (Contact Person)
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Meeting Type:
Utility Board
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Meeting Date:
09/11/2024
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Recording Published:
09/11/2024
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Duration:
25 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Reading
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