The board discussed the need for increased local aid from the state, including a push for adjustments to Chapter 70 funding, which could potentially add $100,000 to the town’s resources. Additionally, there are hopes for other grants amounting to $630,000. Public testimony from educators and students underscored the severe impact of these budget cuts on the town of Lunenburg, with a local delegation present to advocate for the town’s interests. The emphasis was on the necessity of state support, particularly in terms of per-pupil funding and unrestricted general government aid.

In another development, the board ratified the appointment of Jeffrey Tibido as Chief of Police. Tibido, with extensive experience in the Lunenburg Police Department since 2011, received unanimous support from the board. His appointment follows a comprehensive selection process, and his swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for the upcoming Friday. Board members expressed confidence in Tibido’s ability to lead the department, praising his qualifications and contributions to the community.

Meanwhile, the board considered a request from the Fitchburg-Lemonster Shriners Club to hold a toll booth fundraiser on June 7 to support the Shriners Hospital Transportation Fund. Carl Edmonds from the club explained the importance of the fundraiser for transporting children in need of specialized medical care. The board discussed weather contingencies for the event, ultimately granting approval for the fundraiser to proceed regardless of rain.

The meeting also addressed the future of Brooks House, with Anthony Scullenbriny, a resident and participant in the Lunenburg Municipal Building Design Committee, voicing his concerns. Scullenbriny criticized the decision to entrust the project to the committee, which he argued was already overwhelmed. He emphasized the responsibility of the select board to honor the intent of a passed warrant article regarding Brooks House, which called for exploring options for selling the building rather than demolition. Scullenbriny, with a background in civil engineering and historic preservation, challenged the notion that Brooks House was in poor condition and suggested potential benefits of traffic for local businesses and community facilities.

The board also deliberated on a pedaler’s license application from Paul Chinchili, representing Eoloop, a local solar installer. Chinchili sought permission to conduct door-to-door sales for solar installations, with discussions focusing on operational hours and the use of drones. The board raised concerns about Sunday solicitations and drone usage, ultimately approving the license with restrictions on drone flights during sales.

Additionally, the board examined the capital plan, specifically the funding and approval process for a heat pump system for the primary school. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of information available to make informed recommendations, leading to a decision to defer approval until further input from the capital planning committee could be obtained. The lack of consensus on the project and potential funding gaps were highlighted as issues needing resolution before proceeding.

As the meeting progressed, attention turned to the proposed building project for town offices, which aims to address inefficiencies in the current town government setup. The project, estimated at $22.4 million without grants, includes rehabilitating historic buildings and constructing a new town hall. While there was support for the initiative, concerns lingered about the projected excludable debt increase and the project’s financial implications for future town projects. The design elements, including accessibility features and conference room availability, generated mixed responses, but the board appeared inclined to support moving forward with the proposal.