The meeting began with a notable public comment from John Bowen, a resident of 162 Highland Street, who brought concerns about the Cemetery Commission’s financial practices to the committee’s attention. Bowen highlighted what he described as a misuse of approximately $6,000 from the sale of cemetery lots over the past 18 months. He questioned the legitimacy of these expenditures, arguing that the funds should instead be directed toward cemetery care and maintenance. Bowen stated, “the cemetery commission has no reason for access to that,” suggesting the need for stricter oversight. He proposed a warrant article to mandate that the Cemetery Commission justify their spending decisions, adding that the Department of Public Works should supervise fund usage to prevent what he termed as “tax money that’s just being wasted willy-nilly.”

Following Bowen’s comments, the committee shifted to its new business agenda, with the chair outlining a schedule of key deadlines leading up to the town meeting. Important dates included the final budget draft submission on February 13, a public hearing set for March 13, and the Finance Committee’s report due by March 31. The chair also suggested a timeline for departmental hearings and money articles, noting a request from the Municipal Building Committee to present its findings. With school budget discussions traditionally lengthy, the chair tentatively scheduled the school department’s presentation for March 6, although potential conflicts due to an interim town manager transition were acknowledged.

In addition to planning the budget timeline, members addressed scheduling concerns, particularly regarding a February 20 meeting coinciding with school break. While the timeline was generally agreed upon, some members needed to confirm their availability, highlighting the logistical challenges of coordinating during this period.

The fiscal year 2026 budget discussions were also a focal point, albeit with limited progress as the committee awaited health care rate estimates. Market predictions suggested a potential increase of 12 to 15%, with Lunenburg possibly facing rates at the higher end. Members expressed optimism that these initial high estimates might decrease, reflecting past trends. This financial uncertainty underscored the importance of the upcoming Town Manager search, with three candidates slated for interviews at a library session. The candidates included two former Town Managers and a current Department of Public Works director. The committee hoped for a swift decision by the select board to ensure a smooth transition in light of impending budgetary challenges.

Amid these deliberations, the committee touched on school funding formulas, learning that Lunenburg was no longer in the hold harmless category. This revelation spurred a discussion on the necessity of crafting a formal policy for grant writing to alleviate the strain on town employees and commissioners. The importance of grant writing was emphasized as a means to secure additional funds.

The meeting also included brief committee reports. A mention was made of a school committee meeting where facilities management issues were discussed, such as plans for fire alarm replacements and new doors, alongside the acquisition of a new truck and plow. A cell phone policy debate highlighted the school district’s reluctance to require students to surrender phones during school hours. Additionally, a former student’s scholarship donation for athletics received acknowledgment.

The meeting concluded with a discussion about the viability of an upcoming meeting scheduled for January 23. Given the unavailability of one member and the absence of urgent topics, the committee considered canceling this meeting but ultimately decided to keep it on the calendar, pending further developments. The committee also noted vacancies within its ranks, encouraging members to recruit new participants, especially as the budget season approached.