The board, chaired by Barry Muller, closed out the year with a routine review of administrative matters including memorialization of resolutions and approval of meeting minutes. The only new business introduced was the confirmation of the 2024 meeting schedule, with the next gathering slated for January 3rd, primarily for reorganization purposes.

The meeting also saw discussion of the pending lawsuit with the Board of Education. During the discussion, board members were advised to limit their comments on social media or public venues about the proceedings until the lawsuit is resolved. The advice was given to protect them from potential legal consequences.

Chairman Muller expressed disappointment about the Board of Education’s recent handling of public communication at their meetings, particularly the limiting of public speaking time to three minutes on a specific topic. He contrasted this with the Planning Board’s approach of allowing extensive public input, even during high-attendance meetings.

In closing, board members expressed their gratitude for the successful year and their hope for future collaboration. The board’s attorney recommended that, if reappointed, members should be briefed on specific guidelines for dealing with religious organization applications, which could expose board members to personal liability. This suggestion was met with agreement, making it a potential point of focus for the new year.