Lunenburg Planning Board Faces MBTA Compliance and Brooks House Demolition Debate

Overview: The Lunenburg Planning Board convened on April 14 to address issues, including an urgent compliance deadline for MBTA community zoning requirements and the potential demolition of the historic Brooks House. Both topics sparked discussions on strategy and community involvement.

Lunenburg Water District Board Tackles Water Usage Concerns and Emergency Protocols

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Lunenburg Water District Board addressed multiple issues, focusing primarily on concerns about high water usage notifications and the impact of fire department operations on the water system. The board is considering adjusting its notification system and improving collaboration with the fire department to prevent water system strain during emergencies.

Lunenburg Select Board Faces $2 Million School Budget Gap, Leading to 38 Layoffs

Overview: The Lunenburg Select Board meeting was dominated by pressing financial challenges, particularly a $2 million shortfall in the school budget, which has necessitated the layoff of 38 school employees. This gap represents 8% of the total school budget and affects 9% of the permanent school staff. The financial strain is largely due to rising costs such as health insurance and transportation, which exceed the limits set by Proposition 2½ and are beyond the town’s control. This budgetary crisis has led to tensions between various town departments, each competing for limited funding.

Lunenburg Task Force Prioritizes Energy Efficiency Audits Amid Contractor Concerns

Overview: The Lunenburg Green Community Task Force meeting focused on advancing energy efficiency projects within municipal buildings through Mass Save program audits and weatherization strategies. The task force addressed the need for comprehensive project scopes and contractor reliability to ensure successful outcomes.

Lunenburg School Committee Faces Funding Decisions Amidst Grant-Driven Project Modifications

Overview: In a recent Lunenburg School Committee meeting, the need to realign the FY26 capital plan to accommodate a $200,000 green communities grant dominated discussions. The grant, intended for phase two of the mini split installation at the primary school, required immediate action to prevent delays in future grant submissions. This necessitated reallocating funds from other school projects, sparking a debate over prioritization and communication.