# finance-committee — 17 documents, concatenated for reading and search # # This is a CONVENIENCE BUNDLE, not a source. Every document below is # published separately and byte-identically; cite the individual file, # whose path is given in each header, rather than this bundle. # Index of all boards: https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/minutes/INDEX.txt # The town's own scanned original is linked per document. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-05-minutes-7682.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-05 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-05-minutes-7682.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03052026-7682 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Meeting Minutes Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall March 12, 2026 Present Members: Chair Chris Menard, Vice Chair Jean Russell, Clerk Tom Gray, Committee Member Tanya Dall, Committee Member Mike Rupp, Committee Member Jay Simeone Absent Member: Committee Member Ana Lockwood 1. Call to Order The meeting opened at 7:00 PM. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements The Finance Director/Town Accountant, Karen Barrett, states that free cash has been certified. The General Fund total is $3,354,370. 4. Public Comment There were no comments from the public. 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports Full Budget Restoration Budget for Schools: $28,456,277 Current Total Deficit: $3,123,989.01 The deficit would be divided between the town and schools. The town would receive 1.24 million and the schools would receive 1 million. Town Manager states the warrant article booklet will be sent to the printers on April 8, 2026. The last day to submit a petition article is March 16, 2026. 6. Current Business (order may change) a. DPW / Sewer The DPW Director, Bill Bernard, provided both presentations. FY27 Budget Request: $3,178,177.51 (9% increase from prior year) Tree Removal: $39,500 General Highway: $1,375,750 Garage: $1,100 Highway Overtime: $17,500 Highway Labor: $681,496.61 ===PAGE 2=== TraƯic Signs: $16,800 DPW Vehicle Maintenance: $67,750 Police/Fire Vehicle Maintenance: $117,000 Cemetery: $123,466.22 Recycling Program: $363,354 Snow and Ice Budget: $364,460.67 Bill Bernard states the budget is currently at $800,000. Funding Sources Operational Budget Chapter 90 Funding: $718,000 Grants: Small Bridge Grant to repair Flat Hill Road Bridge: $600,000 Asset Management Grant from Mass Clean Water Trust for Stormwater: $ 60,000 DPW is requesting a part-time clerk to help the executive assistant for DPW and Facilities. Their responsibilities would include assisting with accounts payable, time sheets, filing, and assisting with tracking and spending within contracts. The trash budget is fully funded with bag/bin revenue totaling $500,000. Jay Simeone questions why DPW and Facilities are sharing an admin especially since those facilities were previously separated. Bill Bernard states that when they were separated there was no admin for Facilities so they shared the admin. Town Manager states the clerk would support both oƯice but primarily the DPW. Bill Bernard is requesting to restore the pavement management funds that were reduced last year. Town Manager does not support the pavement management plan. A line item totaling $340,000 has been added to reach the MS4 Stormwater compliance. This includes bi-yearly street sweeping and catch basin cleaning. Upon reviewing the last several years, it was determined that on average 30% of catch basins have been cleaned and 22% of the required street sweeping occurred on a yearly basis. The line item would be used to hire and outsource the work needed. Chris Menard inquired if the lack of street sweeping is due to staƯing or funding issues. Bill Bernard states it is a staƯing and funding issue. He ===PAGE 3=== estimated it would cost $100,000 less if the services were contracted out. Chris Menard inquired into the cost to sweep roads. Bill Bernard estimated around $240,000. This includes a total of 144 miles to be cleaned yearly. Jay Simeone questions why stormwater compliance isn’t being prioritized but mowing that is not mandated has taken priority. Chris Menard requests a further metrics breakdown of ongoing and completed work into dollar amounts. The Sewer budget was presented by Bill Bernard with the assistance of Sewer Business Manager, Andrew Valliere. FY27 Sewer Budget Request: $1,981,993.06 Revenues: $2,008,047 Budget Surplus: $26,053.94 Funding Sources: User Charges: 71% Betterment 18% Interest: 5% Fees 4% Rate Increases Leominster increased their rate by 16% in FY25. The town did not increase their fee despite the increase. The FY26 rate increase is 3%. Fitchburg has increased their rate to 7% on a yearly basis for the past several years. Bill Bernard stated that when sewers were installed homes had to pay betterment that they could finance over 20 years. Due to time lapse, betterments are dropping. Jean Russell inquiries into the number of residents that are in the sewer system. Bill Bernard estimates slightly over 1,000. b. * Administration, Unclassified, Debt Service Land Use Department The Land Use Department budget was presented by the Building Commissioner, Brian Gingras, and the Conservation Commission Administrator, Jaime Herlin, and Director of Planning and Economic Development, Stephen Wallace. ===PAGE 4=== FY27 Budget Request: $447,963.33 (1.77% Increase) Funding Sources: Building Permits: 75% General Fund: 16% Special Permits: 4% Planning Fee: 3% Sheet Metal: 2% Mike Rupp questions if there has been a decrease in new construction permits. Brian Gingras believes some contractors are holding back. He sees 5 to 10 new constructions every year but there has been an increase in renovations. Stephen Wallace states there has been an increase in the cost of building supplies. General Government The General Government presentation was provided by the Town Manager, Jennifer Warren-Dyment. FY27 Preliminary Budget: $3,205,051.24 Current Budget: $3,225,721.25 Finance Committee Budget: $1,575 Covers advertising requirements and membership, attendance at any annual conference or associations. Select Board proposed operating budget: $201,895.33 (11.99% Increase) This covers minute clerks for other boards and committees across town, John Guilfoil Public Relations contract, software, legal ads, oƯice supplies, community event supplies, dues and memberships. Town Manager Budget: $442,353.00 Includes funding for Assistant Town Manager position, contracted service line, and legal expenses. Assistant Town Manager (Request): $60,000 Town Accountants: $354,504.68 Treasurer: $123,886.74 $4,500 reduction from preliminary budget. ===PAGE 5=== Collector: $120,662.10 $8,300 reduction from preliminary budget. Chris Menard inquired if there is an option to opt out tax bills being mailed and an option for direct withdrawal for payment. Town Manager requested that the Treasurer and Tax Collector, Myleen Mallari, provide an answer to the Committee. Assessing Budget: $297,440.69 IT Budget Request: $476,000 (updated) Town Clerk: $147,956.05 Town elections will be moved from TC Passios to the schools due to roof damage. Elections Budget: $21,575 – Large increase due to upcoming election. Registration and Census: $21,450 APDC Expenses: $500 Physicals: $6,000 Economic Development Committee: $3,100 Town Report: $16,000 Finance Committee Reserve Fund: $185,000 Salary Reserve Account: $210,000 Town Manager is awaiting information from the 3 bargaining units to make any adjustments. Central Purchasing: $91,500 Veterans Administration: $90,750 Band Concerts: $1,000 Intergovernmental Assessments: $2,635,339.93 All except for $111.05 is for the Worcester County retirement. General Government (Unclassified): $4,500,424.59 Insurances Liability Insurance: $230,000 Workers’ Compensation: $135,000 Group Health Insurance: $3,695,424.59 (5.69% Increase) Life Insurance: $20,000 Unemployment: $10,000 Medicare: $410,000 ===PAGE 6=== c. Other Monied Articles John Bowen is requesting a warrant article to appropriate $14,252.39 for legal investigation of several long neglected municipal trust funds. The purpose is to fund approximately 40 hours of professional legal investigation to determine donor intent, verify legal compliance, and establish whether certain trust funds can be administered under their existing terms. Town council is unable to complete an investigation. Key Trust Funds: Nathanial Day Fund, Post 283 Fund, American Legion Poor Fund, Susan Howard Fund, Gazebo Fund Tanya Dall inquires into the scope of work. John Bowen states it’s not just compliance issues but the trusts need to be redone. Chris Menard would like to hear from an attorney about whether the firm has these investigators. Chris Menard suggests not putting this forward at annual town meeting and pushing it to special town meeting to work on a better estimate and approach. 7. Old Business a. Potential FY27 Prop 2 ½ Override b. Discussions on prior Department Briefings c. TriBoard discussions (Prior and Upcoming) The Board was in agreement that there should be an override on the ballot. 8. Minutes The Board will review minutes at the next meeting. Chris Menard inquired into the AI services available to create minutes for government meetings. Town Manager doesn’t think the software is at the point where it would be eƯicient. The service would require additional fees in order to add users and still requires human intervention and editing. 9. Committee Reports Jay Simeone states that the Sewer Commission has met. A developer has shown interest in adding housing where the prior driving range is by Lake Whalom. 10. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings There were no additional actions or topics to add to future agendas. 11. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – March 19,26 ===PAGE 7=== Town Manager suggested pushing the Public Hearing until March 26, 2026, and having a Tri board meeting on March 19, 2026. 12. Public Comment There were no comments from the public. 13. Adjourn There was a motion to adjourn by Jean Russell, seconded by Tanya Dall. The meeting closed at 10:19 PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-10-agenda-7702.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-10 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-10-agenda-7702.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03102026-7702 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Chris Menard, Chair Lunenburg Finance Committee Town of Lunenburg Jean Russell, Vice-Chair Tom Gray, Clerk Jay Simeone Tanya Dall Ana Lockwood Mike Rupp Tuesday, March 10, 2026 7:30 PM Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 978.582.4148 Tri-Board Meeting Agenda *Revised 3/9/26 12:52 p.m. In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access- C able-157427270975305) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel after themeeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while the option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: ** https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9091740347?omn=81409871020. From a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499, enter Webinar ID: 909 174 0347. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e- mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. This agenda lists all topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken because of these discussions. Not all items listed may be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent allowed by Open Meeting Law. 1. Tri-Board Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Public Comment- The Tri-Board seeks public comment on the FY27 budget. 4. FY27 Budget and Proposition 2 ½ Override 5. Public Comment 6. Adjourn Note: a) References to the Tri-Board and Tri-Chair in the context of this meeting refer to Finance Committee, School Committee and Select Board b) Material discussed in the Tri-Board Meetings may be further deliberated in future, individual Committee meetings ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-10-minutes-7702.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-10 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-10-minutes-7702.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03102026-7702 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 1 of 10 Town of Lunenburg Select Board Meeting Minutes School Committee Meeting Minutes Finance Committee Meeting Minutes Town Hall, 17 Main Street Tuesday March 10, 2026, 7:30 PM Note: References to the Tri-Board in the context of this meeting refer to Finance Committee, School Committee and Select Board Select Board Members Present: Vice-Chair Amanda Moore, Clerk Renee Emkey, Member Brian Lehtinen, Member Glenn McLeod (Absent- Chair Caesar Nuzzolo) School Committee Members Present: Chair Anthony Sculimbrene, Vice-Chair Laura Brzozoski, Secretary Mandy Gilman, Member Emily Young Finance Committee Members Present: Chair Chris Menard, Vice-Chair Jean Russell, Clerk Tom Gray, Member Tanya Dall, Member Jay Simeone, Member Ana Lockwood (Absent- Member Mike Rupp) Tri-Board Moderator: Tim Murphy, Town Moderator Also Present: Town Manager Jennifer Warren-Dyment, School Superintendent Dr. Jodi Fortuna, and School Business Manager Christopher McNamara CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The meeting was called to order by Tim Murphy, who served as Moderator at 7:30 PM. He asked everyone to stand and address the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance. Mr. Murphy provided an overview of the open meeting law requirements, noting that the meeting was being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, Facebook Live, and would be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel after the meeting. After the Pledge, Mr. Murphy invited each Chair to officially open their respective meetings. Each board chair officially opened their meetings, with School Committee Chair Anthony Sculimbrene calling his meeting to order, followed by Finance Committee Chair Chris Menard calling his meeting to order, and Select Board Vice-Chair Amanda Moore calling her meeting to order. The Moderator also noted that Town Counsel Adam Costa was attending another meeting but would attempt to join via Zoom at some point during the proceedings, and that he might be recognized out of order to accommodate his availability. PUBLIC COMMENT Sarah Cammer, 304 Lancaster Avenue, addressed the board. She spoke not as a representative of any board she serves on, but purely as a resident and parent. Ms. Cammer opened by observing ===PAGE 2=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 2 of 10 that Lunenburg has faced persistent budget challenges for as long as she has lived in town, roughly thirteen years, noting that even routine matters such as removing a hazardous street tree had been denied due to a lack of funds. She expressed appreciation that the Tri-Board was now addressing these issues collectively, calling it a positive development. Ms. Cameron reflected on the impact budget cuts have had on the schools over the years, including the elimination of a librarian position at the Primary school during her daughter's kindergarten year, a decision that contributed to her choice to remove her child from Lunenburg schools for a period of time. She stated that this decision, while ultimately beneficial for her child, separated her from the broader school community, an outcome she regretted. Turning to the substance of the FY27 budget, Ms. Cammer expressed her support for the Town Manager's budget requests, suggesting that the Town Manager had likely asked for less than was truly needed. She then directly addressed what she described as a troubling dynamic she had observed in both the School Committee meeting and the Finance Committee: a discussion about separating an override into tiers, with the suggestion that some departments, particularly the school, may be asking for too much. She argued that this framing reflected the very problem that has plagued the town for years: pitting the "town side" against the "school side." She stated emphatically that the schools and municipal services are part of one whole community, and that fragmenting an override based on distrust of any department's ask was counterproductive and harmful to the community as a whole. She cited that fifty percent of Lunenburg students are not meeting literacy targets, and called the school's requests for an interventionist, a kindergarten paraprofessional, a world language teacher, a teacher and paraprofessional for the bridge program, an English teacher, a part-time music teacher, an assistant principal, a literacy coach, and an assistant business manager entirely reasonable and defensible. Ms. Cammer also articulated her support for the Fire Department's fourth shift, stating that the town has needed it for years. She closed by warning that if the boards proceeded with a fragmented or piecemeal override strategy, she would urge residents to vote against all of the measures until the boards returned with a single, comprehensive override that addresses the full scope of town needs. FY27 BUDGET AND PROPOSITION 2 ½ OVERRIDE The Moderator opened the discussion by framing the central question before the Tri-Board: what form a Proposition 2½ override should take, and how it should be structured. School Committee Chair Anthony Sculimbrene was the first to address the Tri-Board. He opined that perhaps if the schools had requested a larger override two years ago, they would not be requesting as much now. He drew a parallel between the town's historical tendency to defer spending and the long-term costs that result. He used the air conditioning system at the Primary school as an illustrative example. In that case, the town had chosen not to install the system as originally designed during construction, and the subsequent cost of retrofitting it was exponentially higher. "We have always preferred to save a penny today even if it means we have to spend a dime tomorrow," he said. ===PAGE 3=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 3 of 10 Chair Sculimbrene strongly advocated for an override large enough to carry the town through fiscal year 2028, noting the current economic uncertainty and potential recession. He observed that inflation has exceeded 2.5 % in virtually every month since approximately 2018, and argued that the town cannot count on external relief. He further commented that the picture was not going to get any better and that the School Committee had just learned that the District's federal entitlement grants had been cut by approximately $123,000, adding to the fiscal pressure. He argued that asking for only what is needed now would likely necessitate a return to the voters within two years, and urged the Tri-Board to think in terms of a longer-term solution. Finance Committee Member Ana Lockwood then spoke, recounting the failed 2012 override which she described as devastating. She stated that override had lost two to one and resulted in the Friday closure at the library and that staff took a ten percent salary reduction and given up hours. She noted that the more recent override in FY25, by contrast, was a smaller, targeted ask with no organized opposition and passed by only approximately 200 votes. She stated that her primary concern is not the amount of the override but the risk of failure. She argued that if an override was needed to maintain level services then that should be presented separately to the voters. She emphasized that she had not yet completed her own line-by-line review of the budget and therefore was unable to say whether she felt an override was needed to maintain level services as of yet. Her central argument was that whatever number is brought to the voters must have the best possible chance of passing, because the consequences of failure would be devastating. She commented that it was risky to put something in front of the voters that would not pass. School Committee Member Mandy Gilman followed, speaking with urgency about the timeline. Having worked in political campaigns throughout her career, she expressed alarm that the Tri-Board was still debating the structure of the override approximately six weeks before it would appear on the ballot, without a cuts budget, without a final override number, and without any meaningful public education effort underway. She stated, "We are currently waving in the wind six weeks before people are voting on this. We don't have a cuts budget. We don't have a list of things that are not going to happen. Nobody is paying attention." Member Gilman pushed back firmly against those who predicted that the previous override would not pass, noting that it succeeded because a committed group of parents invested significant time in direct outreach, standing in pickup lines, distributing flyers, and speaking with families at community events. She predicted the chance of an override passing, regardless of the figure, probably had a 50-50 shot. She called for the Tri-Board to settle on a number that evening if possible, warning that further delay was eroding the time needed to run an effective public education campaign. She predicted that voters would not be moved to vote based on $100 difference in their tax bill, but they would be moved to vote by knowing what would be cut if the override did not pass Select Board Vice Chair Amanda Moore introduced herself and agreed with Member Gilman's sense of urgency. She was careful to frame the conversation as one of structural math between available resources as opposed to competition between departments. She proposed a three-tiered framework for presenting the override to the community: first, a "balanced cut budget," representing the worst-case scenario with cuts across the board on both the school and town sides; second, a "core services override," a combined school and town ask with some reductions; and third, a full ===PAGE 4=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 4 of 10 "restoration" override that would fund everything the school and town have requested. Vice Chair Moore acknowledged uncertainty about whether the full restoration override could pass, stating that she had heard concerns in the community about the larger number. She responded further to Member Gilman’s call for urgency in decision making, stating that the Select Board had not yet had the opportunity to go over the budget line by line as a collective and that additional budget workshop meetings have been scheduled for the Board to weigh in on the budget options as a body. Town Manager Jennifer Warren-Dyment provided during the discussion that the average single- family home in Lunenburg is assessed at $517,296, with a current FY26 tax bill of $7,444. The estimated impact of a $3,000,000 override on that average household would be an additional $636.27 per year, based on FY26 figures. She noted that the FY27 figure would be slightly higher once the standard 2.5 percent levy increase is applied on top. Select Board Clerk Renee Emkey spoke next and agreed that a balanced cut budget should be presented to the public, not as a scare tactic, but as an honest explanation of what would occur without an override. She supported a tiered override approach, describing it as a "plus and premium" model similar to fuel grades. However, she made clear that a true level-service override would not be sufficient, stating, "I don't think a true level service is enough. It's just there's too many critical gaps." She commented, “level services with a sprinkle of salt”. She cautioned against selecting a number for the override that members thought residents would pass as opposed to selecting a number based on justifiable needs. Member Emkey reiterated that the Select Board had several budget workshops scheduled to go line by line through the budgets. She also commented that the budgets were changing rapidly with the revenue figures having just been revised that day. Accordingly she was not prepared to commit a specific number to the override at this juncture. The Town Manager confirmed that revenues had been revised that same day, with investment income adjusted upward by $100,000 and motor vehicle excise tax by $75,000, meaning the balanced budget gap had narrowed somewhat. She also expressed concern for what happens in FY28 as the budget pressures were likely to continue. Member Emkey reaffirmed her intent to pursue a unified override with the schools- commenting that she had sat in the same room a year before and made that commitment. She returned to the schedule stating, that the Select Board had scheduled additional budget workshops on March 16 and March 23 to review the budget line by line. The Moderator then turned to members of the School Committee and inquired as to when they could be ready for final number. Chair Sculimbrene commented that the “cuts” budget would be presented on the 18th. Member Gilman commented that she believed that the School had been waiting for the balanced budget figure from the Town Manager. The Town Manager responded that the school department had those figures for several weeks, but confirmed that the Superintendent had received the adjusted revenue (from investment income and motor vehicle excise tax) that day. Member Gilman commented that it would be helpful for the Select Board to publicly state they were planning for an override. Member Emkey commented on the lack of public engagement thus far. School Committee Vice Chair Laura Brzozski spoke in favor of a single, unified override, arguing that the town is strongest when it approaches the challenge as one community. "We're one unit. We're one town." She expressed concern that a tiered structure would send the message that the ===PAGE 5=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 5 of 10 higher-tier items, including positions the schools have identified as essential, are optional. She noted that the school's restoration budget was, in her view, already extremely conservative, restoring only positions that had been cut the prior year and whose absence has been demonstrably harmful to students. "Kids are in first grade once. They're in kindergarten once. They learn to read once. When we miss those windows, it affects them for the rest of their lives." She stated her preference for one override but acknowledged she could support whatever the body decided, as unity of message was itself important. Finance Committee Chair Chris Menard stated that he did not think that the group could walk out of the room with one number that night, but they could choose a structure. He stated that he trusted the data this year in a way he had not in prior years. He stated that they needed to continue to look at revenues. He stated that they could look at revenues to reduce the impact of the override but know that would impact Free Cash and other things. He presented a visual diagram he had prepared to illustrate the budget situation. He described the diagram as showing the FY26 budget as a baseline and went over the revenue sources. H showed that the revenue projection line, which increases modestly, cannot keep pace with the FY27 level-service budget. The gap between the revenue line and the level-service budget represents the amount that must be cut in a balanced budget scenario. He noted additional items shown in the diagram representing expanded service requests, including the fourth fire shift, an Assistant Town Manager, and the school's restoration budget items. Chair Menard reiterated that the Tri-Board should at minimum leave the meeting with a consensus on the structure of the override (one, two, or three questions) rather than a specific dollar amount, and said he personally was leaning toward recommending at least two override positions. He stated that a course should be charted and that the details of the budget could be discussed during the remainder of the month. Moderator Murphy asked when numbers could be finalized. Town Manager Warren-Dyment expressed frustration at the pace of the conversation, noting that both the school and town sides already have their balanced budget numbers and their request numbers, and that what staff need is direction from the elected boards: "We need to hear whether those numbers are what the override numbers are. We need to be reacting to you." She emphasized that staff are ready to produce the detailed documentation required, but they need the policy direction to do so. The Superintendent concurred. Member Lockwood responded that what she though she heard was “level services with a sprinkle of salt”. She stated that she wanted to see the level services budget with the additional asks. She commented that she had sent the Town Manager 125 comments on the budget as well as her suggestions as to revenue. She said she would be “rigid about what is a level service” and that the town and school both had unused money in FY25. She commented that if the Town needed to borrow to get capital projects done, that was an available alternative. Member Gilman questioned whether if the pursuit is for a “bare bones level services override” would people be willing to be back next year again. Finance Committee Member Tom Gray urged the group not to over-engineer the process and to deal with the information they currently had before them. He argued that the best approach is honesty ===PAGE 6=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 6 of 10 with the electorate: "We're just trying to deal with this year and we are going to try to deal with next year, next year." He acknowledged that he had watched the Fire Chief's budget presentation and found it informative, but commented how few members of the public had done so. He urged the boards to make a decision and commit to it, noting that public attention would not be captured until there are visible signs in the community and real information to react to. "We have to make decisions. We just can't sit there and pass it on." He also commented on the urgency, stating the group had been ahead of schedule, but was losing time. Member Emkey opined that true level services was not enough and that there were too many critical gaps. She acknowledged that the school needed an Assistant School Business Manager, that a principal should not be in a kindergarten class, and that she supported an Assistant Town Manager. She questioned whether 4th shift fire would be considered level services or not. School Committee Member Emily Young noted that as a parent who had watched the prior override process from outside the committees, the most powerful motivating factor had been the sense that the community was acting together with the town and schools in unison. She said that unity in messaging would be a significant asset in building public support. Vice Chair Moore commented that she viewed the ask as “core services” as opposed to “level services”. She commented that she would be willing to make cuts in areas of the operating budget to support the addition of the 4th shift fire. She would like a restoration budget to pass. Member Emkey commented that the needs have changed and that cuts are being made to support those changes. Vice Chair Brzozski cautioned that the two tiers may suggest that the higher tier included optional items. She was concerned that there would be a suggestion that the things in the higher tier would be considered perhaps “unnecessary”. Additional discussion ensued about core vs. level services. Chair Menard offered that a level services option should be offered. Vice Chair Moore responded that she felt like certain cuts should be made to support core services and that is why the term core should be used. Member Lockwood commented that she felt like core services was the right direction as she believe in a “zero-base budgeting” approach. Folks should look at actuals and be strategic as opposed to adding 2 % to everything. Moderator Murphy suggested that a group get together to work on messaging. A distinction was made between campaigning and messaging. Chair Menard offered that the Chairs will meet to discuss the messaging. Select Board Member Brian Lehtinen expressed support for a single override number and noted that if parents and students are directly engaged and asked to show up, they will come, as demonstrated in prior elections. He agreed that the numbers should be ready by the end of March and that the numbers must be justified and reviewed by the Finance Committee. He stated that he does not believe a level-service-only override is appropriate, and that it is ultimately the school committee's responsibility to determine what the schools need and to put that number forward for voters to decide. On the question of one versus two tiers, he stated he would support a two-tiered structure ===PAGE 7=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 7 of 10 only if it were tied to a multi-year projection, and that for a single-year ask, one number is cleaner and more defensible. He affirmed that it was not just about level services, it is about the services that are needed. Finance Committee Member Tanya Dall agreed with the consensus that the override should encompass both the schools and the town as one community, including the fire department. She emphasized that if a tiered approach is used, each tier must be accompanied by very specific data showing the dollar impact per household and the precise service implications of each option. Chair Sculimbrene offered that he thought parents would not be motivated to vote for an override that keeps the status quo if the status quo is not good. He commented on the recent student performance metrics. He said an override based on level services will not pass and that it should be a “core function” override. Telling people to “spend more money on something that is not working is not compelling”. He said he is leaning towards core override and then a restoration override, but not an override for just level services. Select Board Member Glenn McLeod addressed what he characterized as the broader systemic cause of the crisis: insufficient state investment in communities. He noted that more communities than ever are expected to seek overrides this year, and that simply passing overrides does not solve the underlying structural problem. He urged that any public messaging acknowledge that Lunenburg is struggling as a result of inadequate state funding and that residents should hold the state accountable. Vice Chair Brzozski said that they have been lean for years and that there was nowhere else to cut from. She stated that they have not heard the “cuts” budget yet, but that there was nothing unnecessary in their budget. She reiterated that one override supports the message that this what we need. Member Emkey commented that the Town was offsetting additions to its budget by making cuts in other areas of the budget. She asked that the schools looks at their top priorities and perform the same exercise to come up with a “sub-restoration” budget. The Moderator called for a straw poll on whether all members present supported placing an override on the ballot. All members present indicated their support. The Moderator confirmed that this was unanimous among those in attendance and noted for the record that it was a non-binding straw poll. The Moderator then called for a straw poll on the structure of the override: one number, or two numbers. The count yielded approximately seven members in favor of a single override number and five members in favor of two numbers. The Moderator acknowledged the near-even split and noted that several members were absent, including Select Board Member Caesar Nuzzolo, who was away on National Guard duty. While waiting for Town Counsel to join, the Town Manager discussed override options and mechanics with the members. She stated that many communities are thinking outside of the box when it comes to the override approach. She suggested to start with defining what you want the ===PAGE 8=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 8 of 10 structure to look like. The Moderator asked if anyone in the group was against either approach of an override (single vs. tiered). Member Lockwood commented that she was opposed to bringing forward a single override number. She stated that her children suffered from the failure of the 2012 override. She called the prospect of repeating that outcome “extremely dangerous” and "reckless," and argued that the voters of Lunenburg have historically supported schools, citing the approval of a new school building shortly after the 2012 override failure. Member Lehtinen reiterated support for a single number and suggested removing emotion from the process: the School Committee identifies its needs, the Finance Committee reviews the numbers, and the Select Board puts the article to the voters. Member Gray urged the group to commit: "Pick a number and go with it, and then be forceful and educate the people." Vice Chair Moore expressed concern about a single override. Member Dall expressed concern about a "trust issue" with residents stemming from recent years' budgetary events, and argued that having two options on the ballot could be framed as transparency and a good-faith effort to work with the community rather than a sign of indecision. Chair Menard commented that he hoped that all would support the Select Board’s decision regardless of what that decision may be. After some technical difficulty establishing audio, Town Counsel Adam J. Costa joined the meeting via telephone from his vehicle, having been at another meeting. The Moderator briefed him on the central question before the Tri-Board. Town Counsel Costa observed that the current override season is shaping up to be exceptionally busy, potentially surpassing even last year, which he described as unprecedented in his twenty years of practice. He noted that municipalities are actively seeking creative approaches but that the stringent statutory requirements governing Proposition 2½ overrides create real risk when communities try to deviate from traditional methods. He stated that he had recently had multiple conversations with the lead general counsel for the Division of Local Services (DLS) at the Massachusetts Department of Revenue regarding non-traditional override structures, and that even in those conversations, answers were not always definitive. He observed, "Thinking outside the box carries with it some risks." He reported that despite extensive internal discussion of tiered overrides, multi-year overrides, stabilization fund overrides, and other creative variations, most communities ultimately land on something "tried and true" in a general purposes override or a categorical override. Those approaches are the ones that voters understand and that can be executed without legal uncertainty. He said that communities seem to gravitate toward simplicity when the stakes are high. Member Emkey asked Attorney Costa to address the rules governing what elected officials and public employees can do in terms of informing the public about an override, conducting surveys, and using public access television. Town Counsel Costa responded that while he did not have all relevant materials in front of him, he could speak in general terms. He stated that the law regulates conduct, not speech, and that local officials are permitted to take positions on override questions ===PAGE 9=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 9 of 10 and speak publicly in favor of or in opposition to them. He stated the use of municipal funds or municipal resources (personnel, supplies, facilities) to promote or oppose a ballot question is what is prohibited. He noted that public employees may work on an override campaign on a volunteer basis on their own time in any capacity except fundraising. He further noted the existence of a specific statute, which he did not believe Lunenburg has adopted, that permits municipalities to send a one-page informational summary to voters regarding override questions. He committed to providing specific guidance documents through the Town Manager, including materials from the Office of Campaign and Political Finance (OCPF) and the Attorney General's office. Regarding Member Emkey's question about a public survey or poll, Town Counsel Costa indicated his belief that gathering information from residents through a poll is distinguishable from advocating on a ballot question, and that it is likely permissible, though he would confirm this in writing. Chair Sculimbrene asked for clarification on whether, as a School Committee member, he could tell parents that they should come to town meeting with a sponsor and vote for an override article. Town Counsel Costa read directly from the DLS Proposition 2½ guide: "The law regulates conduct and not speech. Thus, while local officials can take a position on an override or exclusion question and can speak in favor of or in opposition to it, they cannot spend public funds or use public resources such as personnel, supplies, and facilities to promote or oppose the question. Public employees may work on an override question or exclusion campaign on a volunteer basis on their own time in any capacity other than fundraising." He opined that providing informational context to parent groups, such as explaining town meeting procedures and the role of a sponsor, would not run afoul of the law, though he would verify this against available guidance. Member Emkey confirmed the key timeline constraint: the ballot question language must be submitted to the Town Clerk by April 11, 2026, which is thirty-five days prior to the election. Town Counsel Costa confirmed this, and also confirmed that if the override question fails at the ballot, the town has the option of bringing it back for a special election, provided that occurs prior to September 15th for appropriations made at the Annual Town Meeting. He noted that the thirty-five day notice requirement applies to each subsequent election as well. Town Counsel Costa also confirmed that the specific dollar amount does not need to appear in the printed warrant; it needs to be contained in the motion on the floor, but the motion's dollar figure must match the ballot question. Town Manager Warren-Dyment confirmed the April 11th deadline is to the Town Clerk's office, not a board vote. The Moderator thanked Town Counsel Costa for attending under difficult circumstances, and he disconnected from the meeting. Following Town Counsel Costa's departure, the Moderator attempted to bring the conversation to a close and identify next steps. He noted that the straw poll on one versus two overrides had yielded a near-even split, and that the group was not yet in a position to reach a binding conclusion. Member Gilman expressed urgency about the need to begin at least some form of public communication, proposing that the Tri-Board put out a statement indicating that an override is ===PAGE 10=== Tri Board Meeting Minutes March 10, 2026 Page 10 of 10 necessary. Vice Chair Moore raised concern about taking a formal vote without Select Board Chair Caesar Nuzzolo present, as he would be returning from National Guard service later that week. The Town Manager suggested that rather than taking a formal vote, each individual member and committee could use their own platforms to communicate that the Tri-Board had met and is actively working on the FY27 budget, noting that there is nothing improper about doing so. The Moderator noted that the April 11th ballot language deadline effectively means the Tri-Board must arrive at a final number by the end of March or very early April, and encouraged the chairs to keep that constraint front of mind. PUBLIC COMMENT Sarah Cammer of 304 Lancaster Avenue, returned to the podium for a second public comment period. She addressed the Tri-Board as a parent, stating that the schools are "not starting this process on equal footing with the town," noting that new hires had occurred on the municipal side in the prior year while the schools had been cutting positions. Referring directly to the diagram Chair Menard had presented earlier, Ms. Cammer took issue with the labeling of the school's restoration budget items in the highest tier, particularly the items listed as "x, y, z." She identified those items specifically: an English teacher and part-time music teacher to ensure adequate time-on-learning at the high school and middle school, an assistant principal, a literacy coach, and an assistant business manager. "These aren't x, y, z items to me," she stated. Chair Sculimbrene exited the meeting prior to end of the public comment period. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Member Lockwood to adjourn the Finance Committee meeting. Seconded by Member Dall. Call for the vote: Six-aye. The motion passed unanimously (6-0-0). Motion by Member Gilman to adjourn the School Committee meeting. Seconded by Member Young. Call for the vote: Three-aye. The motion passed unanimously (3-0-0). Motion by Member Lehtinen to adjourn the Select Board meeting at 9:53 p.m. Seconded by Vice-Chair Moore. Call for the vote: Four-aye. The motion passed unanimously (4-0-0). Respectfully Submitted, Jennifer Warren-Dyment, Town Manager These Minutes were reviewed and approved by the Select Board on: Tuesday June 13, 2026. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-12-agenda-7683.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-12 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-12-agenda-7683.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03122026-7683 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Chris Menard, Chair Lunenburg Finance Committee Town of Lunenburg Jean Russell, Vice-Chair Tom Gray, Clerk Jay Simeone Tanya Dall Ana Lockwood Mike Rupp Thursday, March 12, 2026 7:00 PM Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 978.582.4148 Agenda Amended March 5, 2026 In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page (h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access- C able-157427270975305) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while the option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: h ttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/82195029392 .From a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499, enter Webinar ID: 821 9502 9392. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e- mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. This agenda lists all topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken because of these discussions. Not all items listed may be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent allowed by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements 4. Public Comment 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports 6. Current Business (order may change) a. DPW / Sewer b. * Administration, Unclassified, Debt Service c. Other Monied Articles 7. Old Business a. Potential FY27 Prop 2 ½ Override b. Discussions on prior Department Briefings c. TriBoard discussions (Prior and Upcoming) 8. Minutes 9. Committee Reports 10. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings 11. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – March 19,26 12. Public Comment 13. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-12-minutes-7683.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-12 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-12-minutes-7683.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03122026-7683 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Meeting Minutes Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall March 12, 2026 Present Members: Chair Chris Menard, Vice Chair Jean Russell, Clerk Tom Gray, Committee Member Tanya Dall, Committee Member Mike Rupp, Committee Member Jay Simeone Absent Member: Committee Member Ana Lockwood 1. Call to Order The meeting opened at 7:00 PM. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements The Finance Director/Town Accountant, Karen Barrett, states that free cash has been certified. The General Fund total is $3,354,370. 4. Public Comment There were no comments from the public. 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports Full Budget Restoration Budget for Schools: $28,456,277 Current Total Deficit: $3,123,989.01 The deficit would be divided between the town and schools. The town would receive 1.24 million and the schools would receive 1 million. Town Manager states the warrant article booklet will be sent to the printers on April 8, 2026. The last day to submit a petition article is March 16, 2026. 6. Current Business (order may change) a. DPW / Sewer The DPW Director, Bill Bernard, provided both presentations. FY27 Budget Request: $3,178,177.51 (9% increase from prior year) Tree Removal: $39,500 General Highway: $1,375,750 Garage: $1,100 Highway Overtime: $17,500 Highway Labor: $681,496.61 ===PAGE 2=== TraƯic Signs: $16,800 DPW Vehicle Maintenance: $67,750 Police/Fire Vehicle Maintenance: $117,000 Cemetery: $123,466.22 Recycling Program: $363,354 Snow and Ice Budget: $364,460.67 Bill Bernard states the budget is currently at $800,000. Funding Sources Operational Budget Chapter 90 Funding: $718,000 Grants: Small Bridge Grant to repair Flat Hill Road Bridge: $600,000 Asset Management Grant from Mass Clean Water Trust for Stormwater: $ 60,000 DPW is requesting a part-time clerk to help the executive assistant for DPW and Facilities. Their responsibilities would include assisting with accounts payable, time sheets, filing, and assisting with tracking and spending within contracts. The trash budget is fully funded with bag/bin revenue totaling $500,000. Jay Simeone questions why DPW and Facilities are sharing an admin especially since those facilities were previously separated. Bill Bernard states that when they were separated there was no admin for Facilities so they shared the admin. Town Manager states the clerk would support both oƯice but primarily the DPW. Bill Bernard is requesting to restore the pavement management funds that were reduced last year. Town Manager does not support the pavement management plan. A line item totaling $340,000 has been added to reach the MS4 Stormwater compliance. This includes bi-yearly street sweeping and catch basin cleaning. Upon reviewing the last several years, it was determined that on average 30% of catch basins have been cleaned and 22% of the required street sweeping occurred on a yearly basis. The line item would be used to hire and outsource the work needed. Chris Menard inquired if the lack of street sweeping is due to staƯing or funding issues. Bill Bernard states it is a staƯing and funding issue. He ===PAGE 3=== estimated it would cost $100,000 less if the services were contracted out. Chris Menard inquired into the cost to sweep roads. Bill Bernard estimated around $240,000. This includes a total of 144 miles to be cleaned yearly. Jay Simeone questions why stormwater compliance isn’t being prioritized but mowing that is not mandated has taken priority. Chris Menard requests a further metrics breakdown of ongoing and completed work into dollar amounts. The Sewer budget was presented by Bill Bernard with the assistance of Sewer Business Manager, Andrew Valliere. FY27 Sewer Budget Request: $1,981,993.06 Revenues: $2,008,047 Budget Surplus: $26,053.94 Funding Sources: User Charges: 71% Betterment 18% Interest: 5% Fees 4% Rate Increases Leominster increased their rate by 16% in FY25. The town did not increase their fee despite the increase. The FY26 rate increase is 3%. Fitchburg has increased their rate to 7% on a yearly basis for the past several years. Bill Bernard stated that when sewers were installed homes had to pay betterment that they could finance over 20 years. Due to time lapse, betterments are dropping. Jean Russell inquiries into the number of residents that are in the sewer system. Bill Bernard estimates slightly over 1,000. b. * Administration, Unclassified, Debt Service Land Use Department The Land Use Department budget was presented by the Building Commissioner, Brian Gingras, and the Conservation Commission Administrator, Jaime Herlin, and Director of Planning and Economic Development, Stephen Wallace. ===PAGE 4=== FY27 Budget Request: $447,963.33 (1.77% Increase) Funding Sources: Building Permits: 75% General Fund: 16% Special Permits: 4% Planning Fee: 3% Sheet Metal: 2% Mike Rupp questions if there has been a decrease in new construction permits. Brian Gingras believes some contractors are holding back. He sees 5 to 10 new constructions every year but there has been an increase in renovations. Stephen Wallace states there has been an increase in the cost of building supplies. General Government The General Government presentation was provided by the Town Manager, Jennifer Warren-Dyment. FY27 Preliminary Budget: $3,205,051.24 Current Budget: $3,225,721.25 Finance Committee Budget: $1,575 Covers advertising requirements and membership, attendance at any annual conference or associations. Select Board proposed operating budget: $201,895.33 (11.99% Increase) This covers minute clerks for other boards and committees across town, John Guilfoil Public Relations contract, software, legal ads, oƯice supplies, community event supplies, dues and memberships. Town Manager Budget: $442,353.00 Includes funding for Assistant Town Manager position, contracted service line, and legal expenses. Assistant Town Manager (Request): $60,000 Town Accountants: $354,504.68 Treasurer: $123,886.74 $4,500 reduction from preliminary budget. ===PAGE 5=== Collector: $120,662.10 $8,300 reduction from preliminary budget. Chris Menard inquired if there is an option to opt out tax bills being mailed and an option for direct withdrawal for payment. Town Manager requested that the Treasurer and Tax Collector, Myleen Mallari, provide an answer to the Committee. Assessing Budget: $297,440.69 IT Budget Request: $476,000 (updated) Town Clerk: $147,956.05 Town elections will be moved from TC Passios to the schools due to roof damage. Elections Budget: $21,575 – Large increase due to upcoming election. Registration and Census: $21,450 APDC Expenses: $500 Physicals: $6,000 Economic Development Committee: $3,100 Town Report: $16,000 Finance Committee Reserve Fund: $185,000 Salary Reserve Account: $210,000 Town Manager is awaiting information from the 3 bargaining units to make any adjustments. Central Purchasing: $91,500 Veterans Administration: $90,750 Band Concerts: $1,000 Intergovernmental Assessments: $2,635,339.93 All except for $111.05 is for the Worcester County retirement. General Government (Unclassified): $4,500,424.59 Insurances Liability Insurance: $230,000 Workers’ Compensation: $135,000 Group Health Insurance: $3,695,424.59 (5.69% Increase) Life Insurance: $20,000 Unemployment: $10,000 Medicare: $410,000 ===PAGE 6=== c. Other Monied Articles John Bowen is requesting a warrant article to appropriate $14,252.39 for legal investigation of several long neglected municipal trust funds. The purpose is to fund approximately 40 hours of professional legal investigation to determine donor intent, verify legal compliance, and establish whether certain trust funds can be administered under their existing terms. Town council is unable to complete an investigation. Key Trust Funds: Nathanial Day Fund, Post 283 Fund, American Legion Poor Fund, Susan Howard Fund, Gazebo Fund Tanya Dall inquires into the scope of work. John Bowen states it’s not just compliance issues but the trusts need to be redone. Chris Menard would like to hear from an attorney about whether the firm has these investigators. Chris Menard suggests not putting this forward at annual town meeting and pushing it to special town meeting to work on a better estimate and approach. 7. Old Business a. Potential FY27 Prop 2 ½ Override b. Discussions on prior Department Briefings c. TriBoard discussions (Prior and Upcoming) The Board was in agreement that there should be an override on the ballot. 8. Minutes The Board will review minutes at the next meeting. Chris Menard inquired into the AI services available to create minutes for government meetings. Town Manager doesn’t think the software is at the point where it would be eƯicient. The service would require additional fees in order to add users and still requires human intervention and editing. 9. Committee Reports Jay Simeone states that the Sewer Commission has met. A developer has shown interest in adding housing where the prior driving range is by Lake Whalom. 10. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings There were no additional actions or topics to add to future agendas. 11. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – March 19,26 ===PAGE 7=== Town Manager suggested pushing the Public Hearing until March 26, 2026, and having a Tri board meeting on March 19, 2026. 12. Public Comment There were no comments from the public. 13. Adjourn There was a motion to adjourn by Jean Russell, seconded by Tanya Dall. The meeting closed at 10:19 PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-19-agenda-7720.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-19 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-19-agenda-7720.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03192026-7720 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Chris Menard, Chair Lunenburg Finance Committee Tri-Board Meeting Town of Lunenburg Jean Russell, Vice-Chair Tom Gray, Clerk Jay Simeone Tanya Dall Ana Lockwood Mike Rupp Thursday, March 19, 2026 7:00 PM *Amened March 18, 2026 Bilotta Meeting Room, Town Hall Zoom Only: 766 316 7607 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 978.582.4148 Agenda In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access- Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. Additionally, please be advised that the Town of Lunenburg utilizes the Zoom platform as host for its hybrid and remote meetings; that the Zoom platform utilizes AI technology, known as "AI Companion," to create audio transcriptions of meetings to aid in the subsequent preparation of meeting minutes; and that AI Companion is activated immediately upon launching the Zoom application. You are hereby notified that this AI technology may capture audio prior to the start of the meeting and/or following the conclusion of the meeting. This meeting will be held on Zoom only. in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in- person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607?omn=83933248201 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 766 316 7607 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Finance Committee Call to Order 2. Open Finance Committee Public Hearing and Continue to March 26 at 7:00 3. Tri-Board Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance 4. Public Comment – The Tri-Board seeks public comment on the FY27 budget. 5. New Business a. FY27 Budget and Proposition 2 ½ Override 6. Public Comment 7. Adjourn Note: a) References to the Tri-Board and Tri-Chair in the context of this meeting refer to Finance Committee, School Committee and Select Board b) Material discussed in the Tri-Board Meetings may be further deliberated in future, individual Committee meetings ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-19-agenda-7723.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-19 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-19-agenda-7723.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03192026-7723 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Chris Menard, Chair Lunenburg Finance Committee Tri-Board Meeting Town of Lunenburg Jean Russell, Vice-Chair Tom Gray, Clerk Jay Simeone Tanya Dall Ana Lockwood Mike Rupp Thursday, March 19, 2026 7:00 PM *Amened March 18, 2026 Bilotta Meeting Room, Town Hall Zoom Only: 766 316 7607 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 978.582.4148 Agenda In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access- Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. Additionally, please be advised that the Town of Lunenburg utilizes the Zoom platform as host for its hybrid and remote meetings; that the Zoom platform utilizes AI technology, known as "AI Companion," to create audio transcriptions of meetings to aid in the subsequent preparation of meeting minutes; and that AI Companion is activated immediately upon launching the Zoom application. You are hereby notified that this AI technology may capture audio prior to the start of the meeting and/or following the conclusion of the meeting. This meeting will be held on Zoom only. in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in- person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607?omn=83933248201 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 766 316 7607 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Finance Committee Call to Order 2. Open Finance Committee Public Hearing and Continue to March 26 at 7:00 3. Tri-Board Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance 4. Public Comment – The Tri-Board seeks public comment on the FY27 budget. 5. New Business a. FY27 Budget and Proposition 2 ½ Override 6. Public Comment 7. Adjourn Note: a) References to the Tri-Board and Tri-Chair in the context of this meeting refer to Finance Committee, School Committee and Select Board b) Material discussed in the Tri-Board Meetings may be further deliberated in future, individual Committee meetings ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-19-minutes-7723.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-19 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-19-minutes-7723.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03192026-7723 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Meeting Minutes Zoom Only March 19, 2026 Present Members: Chair Chris Menard, Vice Chair Jean Russell, Clerk Tom Gray, Committee Member Tanya Dall, Committee Member Ana Lockwood, Committee Member Mike Rupp, Committee Member Jay Simeone 1. Call to Order The meeting opened at 7:00 PM. 2. Open Finance Committee Public Hearing and Continue to March 26 at 7:00 PM There was a motion to open the Finance Committee public hearing and to continue it until March 26 at 7PM by Tom gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll call vote. Mike Rupp aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. Ana Lockwood expressed concern about the budget that the school committee presented. According to bylaws a balanced budget is supposed to be presented and that budget needs to be voted on prior to their presentation at town meeting. Additionally, Ana Lockwood is aware of multiple workshops that have occurred where information has changed but haven’t been shared with the Committee. Chris Menard was unaware of any anticipated changes and will request the School Committee to present an updated presentation. Chris Menard will also request Town Manager present to the Committee any changes. Tom Gray suggests the school and the town present a budget that includes an override and one without an override. 3. Adjourn There was a motion to adjourn by Jean Russell, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll call vote. Mike Rupp aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The meeting closed at 7:14 PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-24-agenda-7730.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-24 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-24-agenda-7730.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03242026-7730 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== FINANCE COMMITTEE TRI-BOARD MEETING AGENDA Tuesday, March 24, 2026 7:00 PM Bilotta Meeting Room, Town Hall In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. Additionally, please be advised that the Town of Lunenburg utilizes the Zoom platform as host for its hybrid and remote meetings; that the Zoom platform utilizes AI technology, known as "AI Companion," to create audio transcriptions of meetings to aid in the subsequent preparation of meeting minutes; and that AI Companion is activated immediately upon launching the Zoom application. You are hereby notified that this AI technology may capture audio prior to the start of the meeting and/or following the conclusion of the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9091740347?omn=82196562372 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 909 174 0347 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. I. TRI-BOARD CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE II. PUBLIC COMMENT- The Tri-Board seeks public comment on the FY27 budget. III. FY27 BUDGET AND PROPOSITION 2 ½ OVERRIDE IV. PUBLIC COMMENT VI. ADJOURN Note: a) References to the Tri-Board and Tri-Chair in the context of this meeting refer to Finance Committee, School Committee and Select Board b) Material discussed in the Tri-Board Meetings may be further deliberated in future, individual Committee meetings ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-26-agenda-7737.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-26 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-26-agenda-7737.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03262026-7737 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Chris Menard, Chair Jean Russell, Vice-Chair Tom Gray, Clerk Jay Simeone Tanya Dall Ana Lockwood Mike Rupp Thursday, March 26, 2026 7:00 PM Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall Town of Lunenburg 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 978.582.4148 Agenda In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access- Cable-157427270975305) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while the option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82195029392 .From a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499, enter Webinar ID: 821 9502 9392. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e- mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. This agenda lists all topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. V otes may be taken because of these discussions. Not all items listed may be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent allowed by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements 4. Public Comment 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports 6. Public Hearing (Continued) a. Town Manager Balanced and Override Budget b. School Dept Balanced and Override Budget c. Discussions on prior Department Briefings d. Draft Warrant Articles 7. Current Business (order may change) a. V otes on Articles b. Finance Committee Report 8. Old Business a. FY27 Prop 2 ½ Override Discussions b. TriBoard discussions (Prior and Upcoming) 9. Minutes (2/5, 2/12, 2/19) 10. Committee Reports 11. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings 12. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – April 2 13. Public Comment 14. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-03-26-minutes-7737.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-03-26 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-03-26-minutes-7737.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03262026-7737 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall March 26, 2026 Present Members: Chair Chris Menard, Vice Chair Jean Russell, Clerk Tom Gray (Zoom), Committee Member Jay Simeone (Zoom), Committee Member Tanya Dall, Committee Member Ana Lockwood, Committee Member Mike Rupp 1. Call to Order The meeting opened at 7 PM. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements There were no announcements. 4. Public Comment Rhonda Liscio,181 Reservoir Road, states she hasn’t been able to see the warrant articles, making it hard to ask any questions. Chris Menard confirms the articles will oƯicially be heard during this meeting. Anthony Sculimbrene, 92 Beal Street, spoke to Ana Lockwood and wanted to thank her. 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports There were no reports from the Town Manager or the Finance Director. 6. Public Hearing (Continued) There was a motion to continue public hearing by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Tom Gray aye, Mike Rupp aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye a. Town Manager Balanced and Override Budget Town Manager provided the revenue updates below: - Adjustment in local receipts - Additional $75,000 to Motor Vehicle Excise Tax - Additional $100,000 to Investment Income Starting Revenue: $51,611,771.99 Non-Appropriated Expenses: $1,441,496 O Ưset Receipts: $112,147 Assessors Overlay: $260,000 ===PAGE 2=== Cherry Sheet Assessment: $1,069,349 Less Levy Appropriated to the Capital: $244,576 Total revenues available for appropriation: $49,925,699.99 Total “new revenue” FY27: $1,549,263.89 FY27 Monty Tech assessment totaled $117,905 leaving $1,431,358.89. Distributed proportionally between the Town and School: School: $784,814.07 Town: $646,544.82 Budget Updates: o Special Assistant to the Assessor position and TCP operations have been removed from the operating budget. o The new Fire Chief salary was moved out of the operating budget and into the salary reserve. o The Town Manager Assistant Position has been funded throughout the year. o Technology admin support position is eliminated. o The 10-hour position in ConCom has been eliminated. o A new line was added for Economic Development expenses totaling $3,100. o The 19 hour a week Clerk position for the Police Department has been cut. o Board of Health Administrative Assistant has been reduced. o Senior Center Meal Site Assistant reduced. Corrections were made to: Telephone Charges Police patrol salaries and K9 expenses Retiree and Town Health Insurance Chris Menard inquired if health insurance includes PEC. Town Manager confirms it is for retiree health insurance. PEC is in the process of voting, but it’s expected to roughly be a $200,000 savings across the Town and School budget. There are 3 options for the FY27 budget including a balanced budget, tier 1 and tier 2 options. 1. Balanced Budget: $49,925,699.99 2. Tier 1: $52,280,035.68 override required and is estimated at $2,400,000. Total Deficit; $2,354,551.69 Town Deficit: $754,551.69 School Deficit: $1,600,000 ===PAGE 3=== 3. Tier 2 $53,171,145.83 requires override Total Deficit: $3,245,445.84 Town Deficit: $1,296.918.84 School Deficit: $1,948,527 Reductions in the balanced budget (all restored in tier 1): o Select Board preliminary budget $13,500 – level funded at $6,000 o Town Manager Contract Services reduced to $6,000 from the level fund of $10,000 o Land Use Meeting/School reduced from $5,050 to $3,500 o Economic Development reduced from $3,100 to $0 o APDC expenses reduced from $500 to $0 o Central Purchasing oƯice equipment reduced from $7,500 to $6,500 o Central Purchasing misc equipment reduced from $7,000 to $4,000 o Historical Commission oƯice equipment reduced from $500 to $0 o Historical Commission oƯice supplies reduced from $500 to $0 o Band concerts reduced from $6,000 to $0 Police Department o Admin Clerk position reduced from $22,485 to $0 o Uniform fund reduced from $31,000 to $29,450 o Police Salary Reserve reduced from $47,898 to $22,976 Fire Department: o Per diem salary reduced from $291,070.34 to $225,000 o Grade pay reduced from $5,000 to $3,000 o Outside training reduced from $50,473.12 to $25,000 o Equipment maintenance and EMS reduced from $46,000 to $45,000 o Training reduced from $21,000 to $15,000 o Fire recertification reduced from $3,150 to $2,000 o Training supplies reduced from $7,000 to $5,000 o Firefighter meetings/schools reduced from $6,565 to $4,000 o Chief training reduced from $1,400 to $800 o Capital protective equipment reduced from $20,000 to $18,000 o Capital replacement equipment reduced from $15,000 to $11,600 o Equipment maintenance reduced from $15,000 to $10,000 ===PAGE 4=== DPW o Drainage work reduced from $100,000 to $83,000 o Stormwater management reduced from $110,000 to $100,000 o Supplies reduced from $35,000 to $25,000 o Pavement management reduced from $282,000 to $50,000 Board of Health o Administrative Assistant position reduced to $31,182.29 o Purchase of services reduced from $75 to $0 Council on Aging o Assistant meal site position reduced from $19,825.74 to $0 o Programs reduced $8,000 to $6,000 o Kitchen supplies reduced from $1,500 to 0 Library o StaƯ line reduced from $269,048.83 to $226,077.79 o Programs reduced from $21,000 to $19,500 o Materials reduced from $106,937 to $96,200 Recreation o Parks Supervisor salary eliminated in balanced budget o Beach salaries reduced from $25,000 to $15,000 o Programming reduced from $5,000 to $0 Parks o Purchase of services reduced from $80,000 to $60,000 o Expenses reduced from $6,400 to $6,000 Tier 1 Override Increases: IT/Tech Admin support increased from $0 to $35,193 DPW Junior Engineer Project Manager created totaling $88,000 DPW Part time Admin support increased from $13,000 to $24,150.33 Recreations/Park Supervisor salary level funded Tier 2 Override Increases: Board/Committee Clerk increased from $6,000 to $12,000 IT/Tech Admin support increased from $35,193 to $59,459 Police Department Admin Clerk added at $22,485 ===PAGE 5=== Police Department Sergeant salary increases from $273,771.42 to $365,028 Police Department Patrol Men increased from $891,887.30 to $1,034,612 Animal Control increased from $45,000 to $85,000 Recreations/Park Supervisor salary increased to $75,000 Active health insurance for Town increased by $125,000 Questions/comments Tom Gray asked why the stormwater task force removed their warrant. Town Manager states that during the Select Board workshops, there was discussion about fully funding the MS4 compliance within the operating budget to avoid implementing a utility. Upon further discussion it was determined the cost would be too high. They may submit another warrant at a future town meeting. Mike Rupp believes that the numbers presented in tier 1 and tier 2 are too similar. Both numbers are very large. Town Manager states that the tier 1 override is an $800,000 increase over the balanced budget that was previously demolished. The cost would keep and maintain the services that are currently being provided. Ana Lockwood questioned why the police department is looking to add 2 patrol men. Chief Tibodeau states the department was last fully staƯed in 2023-2024. There have been retirement and 2 staƯ have left since last year. Ana Lockwood inquired about the preschool tuition. Town Manager states the rates are set by the school department. Ana Lockwood believes the position of Assistant Town Manager isn’t necessary at this time especially with all the cuts. Town Manager doesn’t believe Lunenburg can make forward progress without having an additional set of competent qualified hands. Chris Menard believes the library needs to start charging for the programs they oƯer. Additionally, he suggests cutting the program budget and keeping the recreation director. Public Comment Rhonda Liscio, 181 Reservoir Road, questioned the town’s contract with John Guilfoil Public Relations. Town Manager states the contract is for crisis communication and costs roughly $10,000 a year. If there were no contract a single event would cost around $5,000. ===PAGE 6=== Renee Emkey, 6 Iris Court, shares her support in hiring an Assistant Town Manager. Additionally, Renee Emkey believes the number proposed in tier 1 is too high, but a level service budget isn’t enough. b. School Dept Balanced and Override Budget Superintendent Dr. Jodi Fortuna, Faculties Director for Schools Christopher McNamara, School Committee Chair Anthony Sculimbrene were present. Dr Jodi Fortuna states that without an override, there will be substantial impacts. Necessary additions include: English Language Teacher: $106,537 Special Educator (Primary School): $106,357 Promotion of an employee to Assistant Business Manager: $10,000 Assistant Principal (Primary and Turkey Hill Elementary): $133,596 In order to balance the budget, the following positions would need to be eliminated: 1st and 2nd grade Teacher: $205,019 3rd and 4th grade Teacher: $171,811 .2 Music teacher (Turkey Hill Elementary) $9,682 Certified Occupation Therapy Assistant: $74,147 1 Custodian: $48,630 There would be a technology reduction totaling $50,203 and an elementary science curriculum reduction totaling $40,000. Additionally, the custodial supply line would need to be cut by $15,000. Extracurricular Extracurricular impacts include reducing the athletics training position into a half time position: $34,259. The following extracurriculars would be eliminated: Girls Lacross $4,170 Golf team $3,362 Ski team $2,444 All athletic transportation would be cut saving: $127,550. The transportation for Middle-High Band would be reduced to $5,000. Athletic fees would need to be raised by $75 per student. This would generate $120,000. Questions ===PAGE 7=== Tanya Dall suggests creating data to show student improvement, Dr. Jodi Fortuna is working on a year-over-year document with data. Anthony Sculimbrene states there is a yearly review of assessments and has the past 5 years of data. Ana Lockwood asks if the teacher salaries include health insurance. Chris McNamara states health insurance is included and reflects the highest option. Chris Menard believes the schools need to start having discussions with the state about the unfunded but mandated needs. Dave Rogers, 82 Highland Street, suggests parents work together to raise funds. Fairs have been successful in prior years. Additionally, he suggests reaching out to Fitchburg State for student teachers. Chris Menard suggests inquiring with National Honor Society to take on projects like previous years. Laura Barooshian, 389 Mulpus Road, encourages residents show up at Town Meeting on May 2 and vote on May 16. c. Discussions on prior Department Briefings There were no discussion about this topic. d. Draft Warrant Articles Town Manager states the Select Board will be discussing the warrant articles on March 21 st. Once the Select Board votes to finalize the warrant articles on April 7th the warrant will then be available to the public. Article A. Reports from Committees Article B. Borrow in Anticipation of Revenue Article C. Expend in Advance of Chapter 90 Funds Article D. Economic Development Committee Revolving Fund Article E. Technology Revolving Fund Article F . Revolving Fund Spending Limits Article G. Payment of Prior Fiscal Year Expenses This article is to pay 2 bills from Aeroseptic from a prior fiscal year. The bills total 1,317.50 & $577.50 for portapotties. Town Manager recommended deferring at town meeting. ===PAGE 8=== Article H. FY 2026 Budget Adjustments This article allows adjustments within the current fiscal year outside of the 33b transfer process. Article I. FY 2026 Closeouts Article J. FY 206 Capital Program Funding Reauthorization $300,000 needs to be reauthorized from a prior vote. Article K. FY2027 Capital Program $991,627 will be used from free cash to support the Capital Program. Article L. FY 2027 Omnibus Budget Article is to raise, appropriate, and transfer $49,963,990.19 from available funds. Article M. FY 2027 Proposition 2 ½ Override Budgets Tier 1: $52,321,641.88 Tier 2: $53,212,536.03 Article N. Amendments to the Salary Administrative Plan Position Titles/Grades Article O. OPEB Trust Fund The Article is to raise and appropriate free cash totaling $335,437. Town Manager noted that at the time there were 2 articles not listed. 1. An article to appropriate free cash to the Health Insurance Special Purpose Stabilization Fund totaling $250,000. 2. An additional article to appropriate free cash in the amount of $250,000 into the regular purpose stabilization fund. Article P . Compensated Absences Reserve Fund The article proposes transferring $10,000 from free cash to the Compensated Absences Reserve Fund. Article Q. Appropriation to the 300th Anniversary Committee Article is to transfer $15,000 from free cash to fund the 300th Anniversary and related events. Article R. Establish a 300th Anniversary Gift Fund Article S. Trust Fund Legal Fees This article transfers $14,252.39 from free cash to fund legal services. Town Manager spoke to town counsel, and they are in the process of completing a document addressing several of the accounts. Chris Menard ===PAGE 9=== believes this warrant should be withdrawn and he does not recommend approval. Article T. Trust Fund Commission Quorum Article U. Stormwater Utility (withdrawn) Article V . Sewer Bylaws No financial impact. Article W. Nonexistent Article Article X. PEG Enterprise Fund Article Y . Solid Waste Enterprise Fund Article Z. Water Enterprise Fund Articles AA, BB, CC. First fund of collective bargaining agreement for Firefighters, Municipal Employee Union, and Teamsters. Article DD. Vacation System Transition Liability Reduction Article EE. Amendment to Salary Administrative Plan Article FF . Mosquito Control Program (withdrawn) Article GG. Notice of Town Meeting Article HH. Transfer of Kids Kingdom from School Committee to Select Board Article II. Open Space Committee Bylaw Article JJ. Flat Hill Bridge Easement There was a motion to close public hearing by Jean Russell, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Tom Gray aye, Jay Simeone aye, Mike Rupp aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jean Russell, Chris Menard. 7. Current Business (order may change) a. Votes on Articles April 2, 2026 b. Finance Committee Report Chris Menard updated the format used last year; Additionally, he provided a detailed document with summaries and department impacts. ===PAGE 10=== Mike Rupp and Jean Russell will take lead at the upcoming meeting. Chris Menard will post an agenda for Monay April 6th as a placeholder if needed. 8. Old Business a. FY27 Prop 2 ½ Override Discussions b. TriBoard discussions (Prior and Upcoming) 9. Minutes (2/5, 2/12, 2/19) There was a motion to approve the minutes of February 5, 2026, February 12, 2026, and February 19, 2026, by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Tom Gray aye, Jay Simeone aye, Mike Rupp aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. 10. Committee Reports There were no Committee reports. 11. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings Vote on warrant articles and approve Finance Committee reports on April 2, 2026. 12. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – April 2 b. Finance Committee – April 6 (tentatively scheduled) 13. Public Comment There were no comments from the public. 14. Adjourn There was a motion to adjourn by Jean Russell, seconded by Mike Rupp. Roll Call Vote: Tom Gray aye, Jay Simeone aye, Mike Rupp aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The meeting closed at 11:13 PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-04-02-agenda-7746.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-04-02 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-04-02-agenda-7746.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04022026-7746 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Chris Menard, Chair Jean Russell, Vice-Chair Tom Gray, Clerk Jay Simeone Tanya Dall Ana Lockwood Mike Rupp Thursday, April 2, 2026 7:00 PM Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall Town of Lunenburg 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 978.582.4148 Agenda In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access- Cable-157427270975305) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while the option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82195029392 .From a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499, enter Webinar ID: 821 9502 9392. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e- mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. This agenda lists all topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. V otes may be taken because of these discussions. Not all items listed may be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent allowed by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements 4. Public Comment 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports 6. Current Business a. V otes on Articles b. Finance Committee Report 7. Old Business a. FY27 Prop 2 ½ Override Discussions b. TriBoard discussions (Prior and Upcoming) c. Any other budgetary item related to Town Meeting 8. Minutes (2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19) 9. Committee Reports 10. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings 11. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – April 6 (if necessary – Zoom only) 12. Public Comment 13. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-04-02-minutes-7746.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-04-02 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-04-02-minutes-7746.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04022026-7746 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Thursday, April 2, 2026 Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall Present Members: Vice Chair Jean Russell, Clerk Tom Gray, Committee Member Tanya Dall, Committee Member Ana Lockwood, Committee Member Jay Simeone (Zoom) Absent Members: Chair Chris Menard, Committee Member Mike Rupp 1. Call to Order The meeting opened at 7:00 PM. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements There were no announcements. 4. Public Comment There were no comments from the public. 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports There were no reports from the Town Manager or the Finance Director. 6. Current Business a. Votes on Articles Article A. Reports from Committees There was a motion to find no financial impact by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article B. Borrow in Anticipation of Revenue There was a motion to recommend approval by Tanya Dall, seconded by Ana Lockwood. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article C. Expend in Advance of Chapter 90 Funds There was a motion to recommend approval by Tom Gray, seconded by Ana Lockwood. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article D. Economic Development Committee Revolving Fund There was a motion to recommend approval by Tanya Dall, seconded by Tom Gray. ===PAGE 2=== Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article E. Technology Revolving Fund There was a motion to recommend approval by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article F . Revolving Fund Spending Limits There was a motion to recommend approval by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article G. Payment of Prior Fiscal Year Expenses There was a motion to defer by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article H. FY 2026 Budget Adjustments There was a motion to defer by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article I. FY 2026 Closeouts There was a motion to defer by Tom Gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article J. FY 2026 Capital Program Funding Reauthorization There was a motion to recommend approval by Tom Gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article K. FY2027 Capital Program There was a motion to recommend approval by Tom Gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article L. FY 2027 Omnibus Budget There was a motion to defer by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article M. FY 2027 Proposition 2 ½ Override Budgets There was a motion to defer by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call ===PAGE 3=== Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article M1. Decommission Expenses and Operational Costs of TC Passios, Funding for Special Assistant to the Assessor There was a motion to recommend approval by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article N. Amendments to the Salary Administrative Plan Position Titles/Grades There was a motion to recommend approval by Tanya Dall, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article O. OPEB Trust Fund There was a motion to recommend approval by Tom Gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article P . Compensated Absences Reserve Fund There was a motion to recommend approval by Tom Gray, seconded by Ana Lockwood. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone nay, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell. Article Q. Appropriation to the 300th Anniversary Committee There was a motion to recommend approval by Tom Gray, seconded by Ana Lockwood. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article Q1. General Purpose Stabilization Fund Transfer There was a motion to recommend approval by Tom Gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article Q2. Special Purpose Stabilization Fund Transfer There was a motion to recommend approval by Tom Gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood nay, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article R. Establish a 300th Anniversary Gift Fund There was no vote taken on this article. ===PAGE 4=== Article S. Trust Fund Legal Fees There was no vote taken on this article. Article T. Trust Fund Commission Quorum There was no vote taken on this article. Article U. Stormwater Utility (withdrawn) Article V . Sewer Bylaws There was a motion to find no financial impact by Tom Gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article W. Nonexistent Article Article X. PEG Enterprise Fund There was a motion to defer by Tom Gray, seconded by Ana Lockwood. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article Y . Solid Waste Enterprise Fund There was a motion to recommend approval by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article Z. Water Enterprise Fund There was a motion to recommend approval by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article Z1: Sewer OPEB Transfer There was a motion to recommend approval by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray, Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article Z2: Sewer Enterprise Fund There was a motion to recommend approval by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Articles AA. First Year of Collective Bargaining Agreement for Firefighters ===PAGE 5=== There was a motion to defer by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Articles BB. First Year of Collective Bargaining Agreement for Municipal Employee Union There was a motion to defer by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Articles CC. First Year of Collective Bargaining Agreement for Teamsters There was a motion to defer by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article DD. Vacation System Transition Liability Reduction There was a motion to recommend approval by Tom Gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article EE. Amendment to Salary Administrative Plan There was a motion to defer by Tom Gray, seconded by Ana Lockwood. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell nay Article FF . Mosquito Control Program (withdrawn) Article GG. Notice of Town Meeting There was a motion to recommend approval by Tanya Dall, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone nay, Ana Lockwood nay, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article HH. Transfer of Kids Kingdom from School Committee to Select Board There was a motion to find no financial impact by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye Article II. Open Space Committee Bylaw There was a motion to recommend approval by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye ===PAGE 6=== Article JJ. Flat Hill Bridge Easement There was no vote taken on this article. b. Finance Committee Report There was no discussion on this topic. 7. Old Business a. FY27 Prop 2 ½ Override Discussion b. TriBoard discussions (Prior and Upcoming) c. Any other budgetary item related to Town Meeting 8. Minutes (2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19) There was a motion to approve the minutes of February 26, 2026, March 5, 2026, March 12, 2026, and March 19, 2026, by Tom Gray, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone abstain, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye 9. Committee Reports There were no Committee reports. 10. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings Discussion about the deferred warrant articles. 11. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – April 6 (if necessary –Zoom only) 12. Public Comment There were no comments from the public. 13. Adjourn There was a motion to adjourn by Jay Simeone, seconded by Tanya Dall. Roll Call Vote: Jay Simeone aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye The meeting closed at 9:03 PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-04-06-agenda-7747.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-04-06 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-04-06-agenda-7747.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04062026-7747 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Chris Menard, Chair Jean Russell, Vice-Chair Tom Gray, Clerk Jay Simeone Tanya Dall Ana Lockwood Mike Rupp Monday, April 6, 2026 7:00 PM Zoom Only Town of Lunenburg 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 978.582.4148 Agenda In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access- Cable-157427270975305) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while the option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82195029392 .From a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499, enter Webinar ID: 821 9502 9392. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e- mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. This agenda lists all topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. V otes may be taken because of these discussions. Not all items listed may be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent allowed by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements 4. Public Comment 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports 6. Current Business a. V otes on Articles b. Finance Committee Report 7. Old Business a. FY27 Prop 2 ½ Override Discussions b. TriBoard discussions (Prior and Upcoming) c. Any other budgetary item related to Town Meeting 8. Minutes 9. Committee Reports 10. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings 11. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – April 6 (if necessary – Zoom only) 12. Public Comment 13. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-04-06-minutes-7747.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-04-06 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-04-06-minutes-7747.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04062026-7747 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Zoom Meeting April 6, 2026 Present Members: Chair Chris Menard, Vice Chair Jean Russell, Clerk Tom Gray, Committee Member Jay Simeone, Committee Member Tanya Dall, Committee Member Ana Lockwood Absent Member: Committee Member Mike Rupp 1. Call to Order The meeting started at 7:04 PM. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements There were no announcements. 4. Public Comment There were no comments from the public. 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports There were no reports from the Town Manager or Finance Director. 6. Current Business a. Votes on Articles There was a motion that the Finance Committee recommends approval of Articles B, C, D, E, F , J, K, M, N, O, P , Q, Y , Z, ZZ by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee recommends approval 6-0. There was a motion that the Finance Committee find no financial impact on Articles A, HH, V by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee found no financial impact and the vote was 6-0. Article L. FY 2027 Omnibus Budget Ana Lockwood questions why the Fire Department is adding an additional employee per shift. Similar towns such as Groton only have 2 firefighters per shift. Additionally, Ana Lockwood disagrees with adding the Assistant Town Manager position and believes there needs to be a job description. ===PAGE 2=== There was a motion that the Finance Committee recommends approval of Article L by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood nay, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone abstain, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee recommends approval 4-1-1. Article M. FY 2027 Proposition 2 ½ Override Budgets Ana Lockwood believes the Committee should have been oƯered an option to vote for a level budget. Tier 1 vote There was a motion that the Finance Committee recommends approval of the Tier 1 override totaling 2.4 million by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood nay, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone nay, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee recommends approval 4-2. Tier 2 vote There was a motion that the Finance Committee recommends approval of the Tier 2 override totaling 3.3 million by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood nay, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone nay, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee recommends approval 4-2. Article X. PEG Enterprise Fund There was a motion that the Finance Committee recommends approval of Article X by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee recommends approval 6-0. Article EE. Amendment to Salary Administrative Plan Ana Lockwood states it’s irresponsible that there is no outline for the 2 proposed positions. There was a motion that the Finance Committee recommends approval of Article EE by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood nay, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone nay, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee recommends approval 4-2. Article GG. Notice of Town Meeting There was a motion that the Finance Committee recommends approval of Article GG by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood nay, ===PAGE 3=== Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone nay, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee recommends approval 4-2. Article Q. General Purpose Stabilization Fund Transfer There was a motion that the Finance Committee recommends approval of Article Q by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone nay, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee recommends approval 5-1. Article QQ. Special Purpose Stabilization Fund Transfer There was a motion that the Finance Committee recommends approval of Article QQ by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood nay, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The Finance Committee recommends approval 5-1. b. Finance Committee Report Chris Menard followed the same structure implemented last year with the exception of additional details. Tom Gray recommends including a statement in the booklet advising readers to consult the Finance Committee report concerning Article M and the balanced budget. There was a motion to approve the Lunenburg Finance Committee Annual Report for FY27 by Chris Menard, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. 7. Old Business a. FY27 Prop 2 ½ Override Discussions b. TriBoard discussions (Prior and Upcoming) c. Any other budgetary item related to Town Meeting 8. Minutes There were no minutes to review. 9. Committee Reports There were no Committee reports. 10. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings Ana Lockwood requests quarterly updates from Karen Barrett and Chris McNamara. Tom Gray wants to track updates on the Stormwater Task Force Utility. ===PAGE 4=== Jean Russell recommends initiating budget discussions with department heads at the beginning of the fall season. 11. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – April 6 (if necessary –Zoom only) b. Finance Committee – April 23 c. Town Meeting – May 2 12. Public Comment Chris Menard thanks the Committee for their hard work during budget season. 13. Adjourn There was a motion to adjourn by Jean Russell, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll Call Vote: Ana Lockwood aye, Tanya Dall aye, Jay Simeone aye, Tom Gray aye, Jean Russell aye, Chris Menard aye. The meeting closed at 8:41 PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-05-28-agenda-7828.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-05-28 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-05-28-agenda-7828.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05282026-7828 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Chris Menard, Chair Vacant, Vice-Chair Tom Gray, Clerk Jay Simeone Tanya Dall Ana Lockwood Mike Rupp Thursday, May 28, 2026 7:00 PM Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall Town of Lunenburg 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 978.582.4148 Agenda In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access- Cable-157427270975305) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel after the meeting. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while the option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. The following information is provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82195029392 .From a telephone, dial the toll-free number (888) 475-4499, enter Webinar ID: 821 9502 9392. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e- mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. This agenda lists all topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. V otes may be taken because of these discussions. Not all items listed may be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent allowed by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements 4. Public Comment 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports a. FY26 Quarterly Report 6. Current Business a. Discussion on Town Meeting and Town Election results – recommendations on path forward b. Local Receipts Trends c. Discuss FY27 Budget process and improvement ideas 7. Old Business 8. Minutes – 3/26, 4/2, 4/6 9. Committee Reports 10. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings 11. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee 12. Public Comment 13. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2026-05-28-minutes-7828.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2026-05-28 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2026-05-28-minutes-7828.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05282026-7828 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Lunenburg Finance Committee Meeting Minutes Bilotta Meeting Room Lunenburg Town Hall May 28, 2026 Present Members: Chair Chris Menard, Clerk Tom Gray, Committee Member Ana Lockwood, Committee Member Mike Rupp, Committee Member Jean Russell Absent Members: Committee Member Jay Simeone, Committee Member Tanya Dall 1. Call to Order The meeting opened at 7:00 PM. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Announcements There were no announcements. 4. Public Comment There were no comments from the public. 5. Town Manager & Finance Director Reports a. FY26 Quarterly Report Karen Barrett has been out sick and was unable to finalize the quarterly report. Ana Lockwood requested revenue reports, comparisons to projections, spending-to-actuals data, and updates on capital projects. Jay Simeone requested general updates from the Finance Department. 6. Current Business a. Discussion on Town Meeting and Town Election results – recommendations on path forward Ana Lockwood sent an email to the Select Board and School Committee regarding the troubled balance budget. Additionally, Ana Lockwood is aware that the State Senate has increased revenue aid in various lines by $465,000. Ana Lockwood suggests the School Committee request more appropriation for their budget in light of the increased revenue aid. Chris Menard stated that the Finance Committee account was funded at $180,000 and financial policies at $50,000. Chris Menard confirms that the town will reconcile any additional state revenue at Special Town Meeting, but the report won’t be completed until July. ===PAGE 2=== Jay Simeone watched the Select Board meeting and there was discussion about next steps now that the override failed. Jean Russell suggests any member who has an alternative budget that they present to the Finance Committee and the Tri-Board and do not wait until Town Meeting. Chris Menard thanked everyone who contributed over the last year, present at meetings, and gave their opinions. Dave Rogers, 82 Highland Street, expressed concern about the town’s financial issues. He said these problems need to be addressed and that the town needs a clearer understanding of its income, along with more complete information from all sources. b. Local Receipts Trends Ana Lockwood states for the last 10 years the town has not collected less than 4 million dollars in local receipts. This year’s estimate is 3.535 million. Ana Lockwood suggests not being so conservative based on the data. Chris Menard suggests having an analyst review all of the town’s policies on free cash and estimates. c. Discuss FY27 Budget process and improvement ideas Ana Lockwood states the balanced budget needs to be the preliminary budget. Going forward, all documents regarding town finances need to be available to the public and published on the town website. Majority of the Committee supports continuing the Tri-Board Committee. Jay Simeone suggests reviewing the free cash policy. Mike Rupp requests the department heads provide their presentation in an excel format. 7. Old Business No old business was discussed. 8. Minutes – 3/26, 4/2, 4/6 There was a motion to approve the minutes of March 26, 2026, April 2, 2026, and April 6, 2026, by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Jean Russell. Roll call vote: Jean Russell aye, Mike Rupp aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tom Gray aye, Chris Menard aye. ===PAGE 3=== Chris Menard will follow up with the Tri-Board meeting minutes. 9. Committee Reports There were no Committee reports. 10. Actions and Topics for Future Meetings - Financial Policy Review Ana Lockwood requested returning to a consistent meeting schedule. 11. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Finance Committee – June 11 (tentatively scheduled) 12. Public Comment Tom Gray stated that the water district elections will take place on June 3rd. Chris Menard shared that the Town Fair is scheduled for May 31st. Chris Menard thanked Jean Russell for her time on the Finance Committee. 13. Adjourn There was a motion to adjourn by Ana Lockwood, seconded by Tom Gray. Roll call vote: Mike Rupp aye, Ana Lockwood aye, Tom Gray aye, Chris Menard aye. The meeting closed at 7:52 PM.