The town manager read the termination notice into the record, emphasizing the severity of the compliance issues. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation had previously advised against reopening the associated bridge, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. The town must now consult with the state regarding grant funds tied to the project, exploring possibilities for extending those funds given the termination.

In the realm of financial topics, the Select Board also discussed a reported school budget surplus of approximately $582,114, which included about $114,000 in outstanding encumbrances. The town manager explained that while the surplus had been noted, the actual amount might differ once outstanding bills were resolved. Any confirmed surplus would revert to the general fund, becoming free cash eligible for appropriation at the town meeting scheduled for November 18, 2025. The school committee plans to hold a Q&A session to address community concerns.

Further discussions on financial matters included the responsibilities of the town’s finance director and the unresolved state of the school’s financial records. The board members expressed surprise at the $114,000 in unresolved bills so late in the fiscal year, noting the potential impact on the overall budget. The superintendent’s openness in discussing these financial issues was acknowledged.

In addition to financial matters, the meeting covered notable community events and updates. The board announced a Whale and Park event scheduled for September 13th, encouraging residents to share memories for a community memory wall. A vaccine clinic organized by the Nashoba Associated Board of Health is set for September 30th at the library, offering flu and RSV vaccinations. The board also urged residents to partake in a community health survey, with Lunenburg ranking second among competing towns. The survey closes on September 30th, prompting a call to action for increased participation.

The board addressed various job vacancies, emphasizing the need to fill roles such as dietary aid, recreation director, and finance director. The board also highlighted ongoing vacancies in committees and commissions, urging interested residents to apply, particularly for the Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School committee.

Public comments included concerns about the Flat Hill project, notably from a resident who advocated for litigation against the contractor, stressing the importance of holding them accountable for delays and breaches of contract. These comments underscored the community’s frustration with the project’s unresolved status and the broader implications for future municipal contracts.