The meeting began with the board addressing the December 18 incident, where a resident’s frustration at being overlooked during the public comment period led to a confrontation with town staff. The chair described the resident’s post-meeting behavior as “inappropriate and unacceptable,” emphasizing the necessity of civility towards town officials and volunteers. The hybrid meeting format, praised for increasing public participation, was identified as a contributing factor to the oversight, with technical limitations preventing board members from seeing online participants raising their hands.

Board members voiced concerns about the lack of documentation surrounding the incident and the implications of discussing it publicly. One member highlighted the select board’s responsibility to model positive behavior. Another member, who was in Florida, read a letter demanding an apology from a resident for defamatory comments made during meetings, expressing disappointment that the individual was not present to apologize. This member stressed the importance of respect and accountability in public discourse and reflected on their own hesitance to object during the meeting.

As the discussion continued, members acknowledged the challenges of balancing passionate community engagement with maintaining a respectful environment. One member cited the Massachusetts declaration of rights, emphasizing that while robust criticism of government officials is permitted, it must remain civil. They detailed incidents of inappropriate conduct, including a resident entering town hall post-meeting and making staff feel threatened, leading to police involvement. This member concluded that true free expression thrives in an atmosphere of civility, not chaos or intimidation.

In a related discussion, the board addressed an altercation at Town Hall, with members highlighting the need for improved communication and conflict resolution. One member noted that multiple individuals, including select board members, were involved in the heated exchanges, stressing the importance of acknowledging shared responsibility. The police response was praised for defusing the situation, characterized as a “heated discussion” rather than a threatening event.

The meeting also addressed procedural matters, including a motion to remove Associate Member Tony Lionetta from the Council on Aging due to non-participation, and a public hearing regarding a liquor license application for PLM Beverage LLC. Joe Dion, the applicant, introduced himself as a fourth-generation liquor retailer eager to establish a business in Reading. The board discussed the specifics of the new store, including its location in a portion of the former Staples store and plans for retail space, coolers, and a wine tasting room. The board unanimously approved the liquor license, expressing enthusiasm for the new business and wishing Dion success.

Additionally, the board discussed a senior citizen property tax exemption home rule petition, which requires legislative approval and the governor’s signature. With plans to engage local state representatives, the board anticipated a smooth process. A motion to authorize the town manager to submit the petition passed unanimously.

The meeting included the establishment of a commission on disabilities, with discussions on increasing the commission’s membership for improved representation. The board agreed to keep the structure at five full members with three associate members. The motion to accept the charge and establish the commission passed unanimously.

Board members provided liaison reports, highlighting community events and projects. One member recounted attending a Friends of Reading Metco brunch and a town forest committee meeting. Another praised the positive reception of the Monura lighting event and collaborative efforts addressing community needs. The meeting concluded with a discussion on meeting minutes, with debate over the inclusion of specific comments from the December 18 meeting. The minutes were ultimately approved, and the board moved into executive session.