The meeting also featured an update from the town manager on Chelmsford’s financial standing, particularly focusing on the town’s recent bond rating and auction. The bond auction, which aimed to raise $12.5 million for capital projects such as fire station upgrades and school elevator replacements, received a record 17 bids. The lowest bid came from TD Financial Products, with a total interest cost of 3.18345%, reflecting favorable conditions due to the strong credit rating.

Another topic was the fiscal year 2026 budget update provided by town accountant Darlene Musier. While presenting the budget figures, Musier emphasized that the numbers were still fluid, as they did not yet include all end-of-June expenditures and revenues. Notably, local revenue receipts showed positive trends, with motor vehicle excise taxes exceeding budgeted amounts by $81,000 and the local option meals tax also seeing an increase. The hotel and rooms tax met expectations, and interest earnings surpassed budget estimates, contributing to a positive outlook for the town’s free cash certification. Despite a decline in building permits due to fewer large projects, the revenue was still expected to exceed budget expectations, providing a solid financial foundation for the town.

Musier’s performance appraisal was also a focal point of the meeting, as it marked her last official evaluation before her retirement on Labor Day. Board members unanimously praised Musier for her exceptional contributions to the town’s financial success, ultimately rating her performance as “exceptional.” A proposal to extend her contract with a 4% salary increase until her retirement was also unanimously approved. Musier expressed mixed emotions about her retirement but reassured the board of her commitment to supporting the transition to the new town accountant.

In addition, the board confirmed several appointments, including Deborah Belden to the permanent building committee, Judy Omabono to the parade committee, and Albert Glenn Diggs to a full member position on the zoning board of appeals. These appointments were approved unanimously, contributing to the ongoing stability and governance of the town’s committees.

The meeting also touched upon preparations for upcoming events, including the Independence Day celebrations and the fall 2026 annual town meeting. Public service announcements detailed the schedule for the arts festival and associated events on July 3rd and 4th, encouraging community participation. The board also noted the deadline for article submissions for the October town meeting, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in local governance.

The meeting concluded with updates on the town manager selection process, revealing the committee’s unanimous recommendation of two candidates for Chelmsford’s next town manager. Interviews with these candidates were scheduled for July 6. Additionally, the LRTA’s upcoming service expansions to Wilmington and the Pheasant Lane Mall were announced.