The meeting opened with public commentary centered on firefighter Nick Spinelli, who suffered severe injuries during training, including a lacerated spleen and kidney damage. Representatives from the Chelmsford Firefighters Local 1839 voiced their disappointment over what they considered a lack of support from town officials. They criticized the town manager for insufficient communication following their proposal for assistance. A union representative called out the lack of urgency in addressing Spinelli’s needs.

Adding to these concerns, Elena Spinelli, Nick’s mother, thanked the firefighters’ union for their unwavering support and emphasized her son’s deep roots in the Chelmsford community. She made an emotional appeal to the board, urging swift action to aid her son during his recovery. Her comments received applause, underscoring strong community backing for Spinelli and the union’s efforts.

Town Manager Paul Cohen responded to the criticisms, asserting that town officials were in constant communication regarding Spinelli’s situation. He clarified that the Select Board had received the union’s proposal and planned to address it in an upcoming meeting. Cohen assured the public that the shared goal was to alleviate the financial uncertainties faced by Spinelli and his family.

Transitioning to leadership changes, the board officially appointed John Souza as the acting town manager, effective May 26, 2026. Souza, the current finance director, will temporarily fill the role as the town searches for a permanent replacement. Souza addressed the board, outlining his plans to tackle an upcoming $3.7 million budget deficit in collaboration with department heads. He expressed confidence in managing the dual responsibilities of finance director and acting town manager, with the board members voicing their support for his capabilities and dedication.

The board also took steps to form a screening committee for the new town manager search. After deliberations, they agreed to include three Select Board members in the seven-member committee, a decision that sparked discussion about maintaining a balanced representation of board members, employees, and residents. The committee will play a role in selecting the next town manager, with a focus on ensuring a transparent and fair process.

The board reviewed and approved several agenda items, including the appointment of Gary Hanigan as the new chief of police. Hanigan, a 27-year veteran of the department, was presented by the town manager as the ideal candidate due to his extensive experience and commitment to the community. In his address, Hanigan emphasized his dedication to maintaining the department’s core values while advancing its mission.

Infrastructure projects were also on the agenda, with a bid award for a tree and invasive species inventory and management study. Davy Research Group was selected to conduct the study, which falls within the allocated budget. Another bid was approved for the renovation of the town office’s first-floor bathroom.

The meeting also featured updates on the town’s participation in a class action litigation concerning fire apparatus price fixing. This decision, which requires no financial contribution from the town, aims to address the rising costs and extended wait times for fire apparatus.

In further discussions, the Chelmsford Select Board addressed new state legislation affecting marijuana delivery services. The law mandates that towns allowing licensed marijuana retailers must permit cannabis deliveries, while those prohibiting retail operations can opt out to prevent deliveries. The board debated the implications of this law, noting that allowing delivery would not generate tax benefits for the town.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing community engagement efforts, such as the successful launch of the Civics Academy, designed to educate residents about local government operations. The program attracted diverse participants, some of whom have since taken on roles in town governance. The board expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that contributed to the academy’s success.