A significant portion of the meeting focused on the tax investigation report, which has been a point of contention within the community. Principal Assessor Linda Chaika presented updates on the department’s efforts to rectify issues identified in a Department of Revenue report. The report had previously led to public unrest due to changes in property valuations for fiscal 2023. Chaika detailed steps taken to improve the situation, including fully staffing the department with accredited professionals and implementing a cyclical inspection program to ensure compliance with state directives.

The board expressed support for Chaika’s initiatives, which included inspecting 10% of properties annually and engaging contractors for systematic assessments. The department also launched a program to ensure accurate property valuations by sending annual income and expense forms to income-producing properties. Despite these efforts, discussions revealed ongoing disagreements about the tax investigation report itself, with some board members hesitant to accept it as is, citing recommendations for corrections from the Board of Assessors. The board ultimately decided to remove the item from the agenda, avoiding a formal vote on the report at this time.

In another notable discussion, the board considered a proposal for a BYOB policy in local salons, sparked by a business owner’s request to serve alcohol in her nail salon. The current policy requires a Common Victualer license, typically associated with food service, and board members expressed mixed reactions to the proposal. Concerns were raised about the implications of allowing alcohol consumption without food, particularly regarding potential issues with impaired driving. While the board did not make a final decision, they acknowledged the need for further research into how other communities handle similar requests. There was some openness to exploring the possibility of a pouring license, which would allow salons to serve alcohol under specific regulations.

The meeting also celebrated the appointment of Shawn Zarate as lieutenant of the Lunenburg Police Department, effective August 19, 2025. Chief Warren introduced Zarate. The board unanimously ratified the appointment.

Additionally, the board approved the appointments of Paula Beardmore and Jean Dri to the Lunenburg 300th Anniversary Committee. Both appointees shared their deep connections to the town and expressed enthusiasm for contributing to the upcoming celebrations. Beardmore detailed her family’s history in Lunenburg and her involvement with local historical initiatives, while Dri highlighted her ties to the community through family and education.

A community event, “Touch a Truck,” was announced, scheduled for August 22nd at the Department of Public Works. The event aims to engage children by allowing them to explore various vehicles, with involvement from local businesses and organizations providing food and encouraging school supply donations through the “Stuff the Cruiser” initiative.

Public comments during the meeting revealed ongoing tensions between residents and town officials. A resident named Mr. Burton addressed the board with frustration, voicing concerns over unresolved issues affecting his family and criticizing the town’s lack of communication. His comments underscored a significant disconnect between some residents and local government, emphasizing a need for improved dialogue and transparency.

The board also discussed the potential relocation of Kids Kingdom, a playground with historical significance created to honor the memory of lost children. Concerns were raised about the impact of infrastructure projects, such as the design of the senior center parking lot, on the playground’s location. The board assured residents that discussions were still in early stages and committed to keeping the community informed.

The meeting concluded with the board addressing routine matters, such as the ratification of a videographer’s appointment and the approval of upcoming election workers. Plans for a fall special town meeting were set, with discussions on potential warrant articles and ongoing community projects, including the Wallace Park Court resurfacing and cybersecurity enhancements for local schools.