Lunenburg Select Board Approves Regional 911 Agreement, Reducing Financial Assessment Significantly
- Meeting Overview:
The Lunenburg Select Board meeting addressed several issues, with the approval of a revised Regional 911 Emergency Communication District agreement standing out. This agreement, which now includes the community of Hudson, will reduce the town’s financial assessment from approximately $212,000 to $26,000. The board’s decision to authorize the town manager to execute this agreement was unanimous.
The approval of the Regional 911 agreement was a key decision during the meeting. The inclusion of Hudson in the existing agreement with several other towns drastically decreases Lunenburg’s financial contribution. This change reflects a strategic move to enhance regional collaboration in emergency communications while easing the budgetary burden on the town. With all other communities having already executed the agreement, the board’s decision to join marked the final step in realizing this collaborative adjustment.
In another noteworthy discussion, the board considered the potential acquisition of a nine-acre property intended for subdivision into single-family home lots. The estimated cost of $400,000 for this acquisition would require adjustments to the town’s capital program, potentially leaving no starting free cash for fiscal year 2027. The board acknowledged the need for a timely decision, with a May deadline for inclusion in the warrant, though there was a push to resolve the matter sooner. The possibility of adopting the Community Preservation Act was mentioned as a way to secure funds for open space purchases, highlighting the town’s focus on preserving land for community benefit.
The meeting also delved into significant adjustments to tax exemption levels. The Select Board discussed proposals to restore exemptions to their pre-special town meeting levels. These changes involved increasing income thresholds and asset limits for fiscal year 2026, addressing previous administrative oversights. The discussion included plans to incorporate a cost-of-living adjustment in July 2025. Although only a few individuals might benefit from these adjustments, the board expressed a commitment to equitable taxation.
In preparation for the upcoming Lunenburg All Vendor Fair, Josie Gilchrist, president of the Lunenburg Business Association, plans for the event, scheduled for May 10th. The fair promises to be a vibrant community celebration with over 52 vendors, food trucks, live music, and diverse activities. Collaborative efforts with the Parks Department and local organizations were emphasized, with strategic planning for parking logistics and vendor compliance with health regulations. The fair aims to support local businesses and foster community spirit, distinguishing itself from previous local events.
The board further addressed resignations from two long-serving volunteers, Michael Mackin from the Sewer Commission and Peter Beardmore from the School Committee. Their contributions were acknowledged. Personnel updates included progress in the search for a new police chief, with interviews scheduled to begin soon, alongside various committee and employment vacancies.
During the meeting, several potential bidders for cleaning services at municipal buildings prompted an extension of the submission deadline. This decision allows bidders additional time to address inquiries. The board was also informed of the attorney general’s approval of Articles 78 and N from the special town meeting, with no comments on revolving funds.
Further discussions touched on logistical and budgetary matters, such as the declaration of surplus sand and updates on various town projects. The board unanimously approved a motion to declare approximately 100 cubic yards of sand as surplus, facilitating community access to the resource. Updates on the library project and construction work on Flath Hill Road were noted, with an emphasis on keeping residents informed of traffic detours.
Heather R. Lemieux
City Council Officials:
Michael-Ray Jeffreys, Louis J. Franco, Caesar Nuzzolo, Tom Alonzo, Renee Emkey, Heather R. Lemieux (Town Manager), Julie L. Belliveau (Assistant Town Manager/HR Director)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
03/04/2025
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Recording Published:
03/05/2025
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Duration:
148 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Worcester County
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Towns:
Lunenburg
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