# select-board — 4 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 : 2025-10-14-minutes-7457.txt BOARD : select-board DATE : 2025-10-14 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/select-board/2025-10-14-minutes-7457.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10142025-7457 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 1 of 9 Town of Lunenburg Select Board Meeting Minutes Town Hall, 17 Main Street and via Zoom Tuesday, October 14, 2025 Members Present: Chair Caesar Nuzzolo, Vice-Chair Amanda Moore, Clerk Renee Emkey, Member Brian Lehtinen, and Member Glenn McLeod Members Absent: none Also Present: Jennifer Warren-Dyment, Town Manager Public Comment Participants are listed in the minutes I. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chair Caesar Nuzzolo called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chair Nuzzolo advised those present that the meeting was being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access Channel, on Facebook Live, and would be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube Channel following the meeting. He explained that the agenda listed topics that may be discussed, but not all items may be addressed and other items not listed could be brought up as permitted by open meeting law. II. ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Nuzzolo delivered the following community announcements: ● The Teen Center's 9th Annual Shrieks and Creeks Haunted House and Hayride is scheduled for Saturday, October 18th from 6:30–9:30 PM. Those wishing to volunteer may contact andy@theclubltc.org. ● The Master Plan Steering Committee will host a public meeting at Smokestack Roasters on Wednesday, October 22nd from 6:30–8:30 PM to gather final public input on the master plan. ● The Lunenburg Public Library's 20th Birthday Party will be held on Friday, October 24th at 5:00 PM, featuring cake, activities, and a jazz ukulele concert. ● Fall 2025 Yard Waste Days run from October 18th through December 6th at the landfill on Youngs Road, open 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the exception of the week of Thanksgiving. III. SCHEDULED MEETINGS AND HEARINGS 7:05 PM License Application for Joyce Higgins with Weathervane Home Services For Door-To-Door Solicitation Joyce Higgins appeared remotely via Zoom on behalf of Weathervane Home Services. She confirmed that the purpose of the door-to-door solicitation is to assist residents in signing up for energy assessments through Mass Save, which residents are eligible for every two years as a benefit funded through their utility bills. Clerk Renee Emkey asked for clarification on days and hours of operation. Ms. Higgins confirmed operations would be Monday through Friday, approximately 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM, with no weekend work. ===PAGE 2=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 2 of 9 Motion by Vice-Chair Amanda Moore to approve the license application for door-to-door solicitation for Joyce Higgins with Weathervane Home Services. Seconded by Clerk Renee Emkey. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). 7:10 PM Tollbooth Fundraiser Request, Salvation Army for Red Kettle Campaign on December 13, 2025 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. David MacDonald and Lynette Valentine Warren, representing the Salvation Army, appeared before the Select Board to present the Red Kettle Campaign tollbooth fundraiser request. Mr. MacDonald emphasized that all funds collected locally remain in the community to support residents of Fitchburg, Leominster, and Lunenburg. He noted that this would be his final Red Kettle Drive in Lunenburg, as he is relocating. Ms. Valentine Warren outlined the range of programs supported by Red Kettle donations, including a music education program, a summer camp program, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund for residents who do not qualify for standard fuel assistance, a food pantry, and social service support for rent and utility payments. The Select Board expressed appreciation for the presenters' longstanding service to the community. Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to approve the tollbooth fundraiser request for the Salvation Army for the Red Kettle Campaign on December 13, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Four – Aye. One – Nay (Member Glenn McLeod). The motion passed (4-0-1). IV. PUBLIC COMMENT Public Comment Sharon Jordan, 77 Burrage Street, addressed the Select Board to announce the Second No Kings Day protest, scheduled for Saturday, October 18 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Fitchburg City Hall. Ms. Jordan expressed her concerns regarding what she characterized as federal constitutional violations, including due process and citizenship rights, and invited the public to attend the peaceful assembly. Matthew Brenner, 619 Northfield Road and Chair of the Planning Board, appeared as a private citizen to provide historical context on the proposed warrant article to merge the Architectural Preservation District Commission (APDC) with the Historical Commission. Mr. Brenner cautioned that the APDC was intentionally established as distinct from a historical preservation body, modeled after similar bylaws in Salem, and was designed to allow modern building materials and codes while preserving the aesthetic character of the downtown. He expressed concern that merging the two bodies would shift the focus toward historical preservation in a manner inconsistent with the original purpose of the district, citing as an example the APDC's requirement that Ritter be fitted with custom single-pane windows rather than modern double-pane alternatives at greater cost and long-term inefficiency to the town. He further noted that the Historical Commission has no compositional requirements analogous to those of the APDC, and urged that any expansion of historic preservation standards should occur only after significant public engagement. John Rabbit, 314 Townsend Harbor Road and member of the Council on Aging, commended the Town Manager and the Select Board for fostering a collaborative spirit across town departments. He highlighted the integration of the Meals on Wheels and library book lending programs, cooperative fundraising between the Boys and Girls Club and the Council on Aging, and the leadership of Senior Center Director Deb Goodsell and Council on Aging Director Deb Lincoln. Mr. Rabbit praised the ===PAGE 3=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 3 of 9 overall level of activity and community support being provided through the senior center and urged the Board to continue its encouragement of interdepartmental cooperation. Tom Alonzo, 284 Lancaster Avenue, acknowledged the recent passing of two Lunenburg centenarians. He noted that Kay Previtt, who passed at age 102, was co-founder of the Art in Bloom fundraising event at the Fitchburg Art Museum and was actively engaged at the Lunenburg Senior Center well into her nineties, having been the first recipient of the Town Century Award. He also recognized Mario Pitacciola, a World War II Navy veteran who passed away at approximately 100 years of age, noting his faithful attendance at Memorial Day ceremonies and his involvement in the bocce court at the senior center. Mr. Alonzo also thanked the Lunenburg Public Library, its Board of Trustees, and the Friends of the Library for the library's 20th anniversary celebration, and encouraged residents to attend the closing anniversary party on Friday, October 24 from 5:00 to 6:30 PM. V. APPOINTMENTS, RATIFICATIONS, AND RESIGNATIONS • Acknowledge the Resignation of Jennifer Daigle, Planning Administrative Assistant Town Manager Jennifer Warren-Dyment informed the Select Board that Planning Administrative Assistant Jennifer Daigle had accepted a position in the private sector. The Town Manager acknowledged Ms. Daigle's contributions to keeping the planning department operational and thanked her for her service. VI. TOWN MANAGER REPORT Town Manager Warren-Dyment presented the following report: Massachusetts Municipal Association Report. The MMA, in partnership with the Center for State Policy Analysis at Tufts University, released a report titled A Perfect Storm: Cities and Towns Face Historic Fiscal Pressures. The report highlights that municipalities statewide are facing rising costs and sluggish state aid, that local revenue-raising capacity is constrained by state law and Proposition 2½, and that rural communities such as Lunenburg have been disproportionately impacted in areas including education spending. Key data points included that real, inflation-adjusted municipal spending growth averaged only 0.6% per year between 2010 and 2022 below the national average of 1% while state budget spending grew at approximately 2.8% per year. Unrestricted general government aid (UGGA) has fallen 25% in real terms since 2002 despite strong state revenue growth. The Town Manager noted that the report confirms this is a statewide issue, not one unique to Lunenburg, and that the report would be posted to the town website. Public Employee Committee (PEC) Engagement. The first formal discussion with the PEC regarding potential modifications to health benefits occurred the prior week. The next meeting is scheduled for December 4th, at which a smaller negotiating team will be formed. Payroll and Benefits Coverage. The town engaged an outside contractor, Richard Tomichick, through Robert Half, to provide interim payroll and benefits coverage on a full-time basis. Mr. Tomichick brings payroll, accounting, and prior Munis experience. His engagement is intended to ensure continuity following the departure of Nancy O'Rourke at the end of the month. Interim Planning Director Services. The Town has re-engaged Richard Harris to provide interim planning director services, including planning board support, application review, and oversight of ===PAGE 4=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 4 of 9 development projects, while the search for a permanent director continues. Labor Negotiations — Fire. The Town Manager received the official request from Lunenburg Professional Firefighters Local 5369 to begin negotiations on the FY27–FY31 collective bargaining agreement. Labor and Employment Law Update. The Town Manager attended a session hosted by labor counsel Mirick O'Connell covering ADA accommodations, investigation compliance, and wage and hour law updates. Master Plan Public Meeting. The Master Plan Steering Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, October 22 from 6:30–8:30 PM at Smokestack Roasters. Additional information is available at planLunenburg.org. Trick-or-Treat Hours. Suggested trick-or-treat hours for Halloween are 6:00–8:00 PM. Current Recruitments. Open positions include: Payroll and Benefits (36 hrs), Assistant Town Accountant (32 hrs), Dietary Aide (9 hrs), Intermittent Heavy Equipment Operator, Land Use Director (40 hrs), Administrative Assistant to Planning and Building Departments (36 hrs), and Recreation Director (19 hrs). Board and Committee Vacancies. Vacancies exist on the Agricultural Commission, APDC, Cultural Council, Green Communities, Historical Commission, Personnel Board, PAC, ZBA (Associate Member), and the 1st Middlesex Small Towns Collaborative representative position. Elected board vacancies include the Board of Assessors, Planning Board, Sewer Commission, and Trust Fund Commission. The Town Manager placed particular emphasis on the Board of Assessors vacancy as a critical need. VII. NEW BUSINESS No items were presented under this agenda item. VIII. OLD BUSINESS • Discussion on November 18, 2025 Special Town Meeting and Warrant Articles The Select Board conducted a comprehensive review of all warrant articles proposed for the November 18, 2025 Special Town Meeting. Planning Board Chair Matthew Brenner was invited to address two planning-related articles first, given his presence at the meeting. Articles O and P — MBTA Zoning Act Compliance and Common Drive Amendments (Planning Board Articles) Planning Board Chair Brenner explained that Article O represents the culmination of the Planning Board's MBTA Communities compliance work. Based on public feedback received during prior information sessions, the community expressed a preference for leveraging existing zoning infrastructure rather than adopting a broad MBTA-style multi-family overlay. The Planning Board elected to pursue what Mr. Brenner described as "taking credit for the hard work we already did," noting that Lunenburg holds the first 40R district in the Commonwealth, located at Tri Town. The article proposes to increase the allowable density at Tri Town from 22 units per acre to 26 units per acre to achieve state compliance. Mr. Brenner characterized this as paper compliance, anticipating no meaningful near-term development change, as the existing site is built out to 17–20 units per acre ===PAGE 5=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 5 of 9 and redevelopment is not economically feasible in the foreseeable future. Clerk Emkey encouraged residents to view the Planning Board's public information session recordings on the PAC YouTube channel for additional context. Member McLeod echoed that recommendation, expressing broader concern about state-mandated zoning changes impacting rural communities and noted the tension between state housing policy and local infrastructure capacity, including the loss of regional healthcare services. Mr. Brenner added a cautionary note that while Lunenburg has benefited from forward-thinking zoning practices, the town is approaching a point where prior proactive measures are now state mandates, and that failure to continue planning ahead risks future top-down state intervention. He urged continued vigilance. Article P addresses a straightforward correction to the common driveway bylaw, which had inadvertently included a requirement that common driveways be constructed of bituminous concrete (asphalt). Mr. Brenner explained this requirement was unintended, is more costly for developers and homeowners, and is worse for the environment. The article simply removes that language, allowing gravel or other surfaces. Motion to refer the planning articles to the Planning Board under the requirements of MGL Chapter 40A, Section 5 was made by the Chair and seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). The Select Board then proceeded through the remaining warrant articles: Article A — Previously voted to include; Board recommendation of approval, 5-0. No further discussion. Article B — Amending the FY2026 Omnibus Budget. Previously voted to include; deferred. Town Manager Warren-Dyment noted there are anticipated transfers from the salary reserve and a potential additional appropriation to address gaps in the accounting office. The article will be printed as drafted, with a comprehensive handout of all transfers to be distributed at town meeting. Deferred. Article C — Authorization to Pay Expenses from a Prior Fiscal Year. Previously voted to include; deferred. No new discussion. Articles D and E — Stormwater Utility and School Mini-Splits. Town Manager Warren-Dyment confirmed amounts: $42,900 for the stormwater consultant and $28,000 for the school mini-split overage. She indicated a preference for combining both articles into one to simplify the appropriation source language, and stated she would ask Town Counsel to consolidate them into a single article offering flexibility on the funding source. Article F — Public Access Cable Committee Transfer of Funds. Town Counsel is drafting a revision. No further discussion. Article G — Cemetery Commission Transfer of Funds. Previously voted to include; recommended approval, 5-0. No further discussion. Article H — Authorization to Appropriate a Sum of Money for Project Estimators. Town Manager Warren-Dyment reported that each use of a project estimator is estimated to cost approximately $7,000, and that a sum of $50,000 is proposed, which would cover several years of use across town departments, including the School Department and DPW. The funding source remains under review, ===PAGE 6=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 6 of 9 with a preference for capital funds, though free cash may be used. The Select Board voted to include Article H in the warrant. Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to include Article H in the warrant. Seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). A recommendation vote was deferred pending confirmation of the funding source. Article I — Establishment of a Special Education Reserve Fund. Member McLeod requested deferral, citing a desire to hear from the Finance Committee before making a recommendation. The Finance Committee is scheduled to hold a Public Hearing on November 13, which would require a special Select Board meeting on November 17, the Monday before Town Meeting, to accommodate final recommendations. The Select Board agreed to schedule a meeting for November 17 for all deferred recommendation votes. Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to defer a recommendation vote on Article I. Seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). Article II — 41A Property Tax Deferral. Chair Nuzzolo summarized the article as increasing income eligibility thresholds for the senior property tax deferral program to the maximum circuit breaker levels: $72,000 for single filers, $91,000 for head of household, and $109,000 for married filers. Town Manager Warren-Dyment noted a pending question to Town Counsel as to whether the previously voted reduction of the interest rate from 8% to 4% requires annual reaffirmation. The Principal Assessor is scheduled to appear the following week, and further discussion was deferred to that meeting. Article J — Main Street Easement. Previously voted to include; recommended approval. No further discussion. Article K — Transfer of the Care, Custody, and Control of Kids Kingdom. Previously voted to include; recommended approval. No further discussion. Article L — Architectural Preservation District Amendments. The Select Board had not previously voted to include this article. Member McLeod stated he believes the article should be removed from the warrant, expressing concern that it has not been sufficiently vetted within the available timeframe, particularly given the recent establishment of the Bylaw Review Committee and the significance of the proposed change. Chair Nuzzolo disagreed that removal was necessary, noting that the primary question for him relates to whether he will vote to recommend the article, not whether it should appear on the warrant. Vice-Chair Moore suggested that the invitation to appear before the Select Board on October 21 be extended to both the full APDC and the full Historical Commission, not just the chairs, given that a quorum may be achievable and broader perspectives would be valuable. Clerk Emkey noted a specific legal question she wished Town Counsel to clarify before that meeting: the potential significance of a word change from "architectural" to "historical" within the bylaw's language. The Select Board agreed to continue discussion when both committees appear the following week. Article M — Notice of Town Meeting Bylaw. Previously voted to include; recommended approval, 5-0. No further discussion. Article N — Noise Ordinance. Town Manager Warren-Dyment summarized concerns raised by the Police Chief, including unintended consequences for commercial properties operating overnight, ===PAGE 7=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 7 of 9 landscaping companies, and the town hall clock chime. The original intent of the ordinance was to provide police with an enforcement tool for residential noise complaints, not to regulate commercial noise or establish a prescriptive decibel standard. Vice-Chair Moore expressed strong concern about the 9:00 PM quiet-hours threshold and potential unintended consequences for summer residential activity, and noted that a prior noise ordinance failed at town meeting even after public hearings. Town Manager Warren-Dyment acknowledged the complexity and noted Town Counsel is working on a redraft. Member McLeod suggested deferring the article to the Annual Town Meeting to allow for greater public engagement, characterizing it as an article that affects every resident in town. The Select Board agreed that more discussion is needed and that next steps are dependent on whether Town Counsel's redraft resolves outstanding concerns. Article Q — Amendments to Salary Administration Plan, Position Titles, and Grades. Town Manager Warren-Dyment presented a proposal to add a temporary title, ”Special Assistant to the Assessor (Temporary)", to the Salary Administration Plan to facilitate the completion of Department of Revenue directive work. A prior RFP for a contractor produced no bids. Under this approach, the individual would be hired as a temporary employee under an employment agreement defining specific working conditions and excluding standard SAP benefits, using the $27,500 appropriated at the May Annual Town Meeting. The Select Board agreed to defer a vote to include until the principal assessor could be heard the following week. Article R — Salary Administration Plan Amendments. Town Manager Warren-Dyment noted several clarifications were made since the prior meeting: a proposed qualifying-language change in Section 70-3 was withdrawn as unnecessary; language was added to address grievance procedures for employees who are themselves department heads; and Section 70-12A's language regarding hiring above Step 4 was flagged as requiring refinement if the article is bifurcated. The Select Board reached consensus to split Article R into two separate articles: one addressing employee-focused changes to the SAP (including vacation, sick leave, grievance procedures, and compensation modernization), and a second addressing the proposed elimination of the Personnel Committee. Member McLeod characterized the elimination as premature given the lack of public input. The Town Manager acknowledged that the most important components are the employee-facing changes, and noted that in the absence of a Personnel Committee, the Select Board may wish to include fallback language allowing the Select Board to approve hiring above Step 4 should the Personnel Committee be unable to convene. The Select Board directed the Town Manager to prepare a revised draft separating the two components for review the following week. Regarding sick leave incentive language in Section 70-21, the Select Board discussed whether the current quarterly calculation (one personal day for each three-month period without sick leave use) had been modified in the most recent Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the clerical union. After reviewing available documents, the Select Board concluded the provision had not been changed in the most recent MOA and agreed to leave it as is, maintaining the three-month period. • Discussion on Tri-Board Meeting of the Select Board, Finance Committee, and School Committee Clerk Emkey inquired about the timing of the next Tri-Board meeting. Town Manager Warren-Dyment indicated it would be held at the end of November, likely the week of November 17 or the week of Thanksgiving. The Select Board agreed the Thanksgiving week should be avoided due to travel conflicts and that the meeting should not be held immediately following Town Meeting. A ===PAGE 8=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 8 of 9 specific date was not confirmed. IX. MINUTES/WARRANTS/ACTION ITEMS Minutes • Review and Approve Minutes for September 23, 2025* Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to approve the minutes from September 23, 2025. Seconded by Member Brian Lehtinen. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). Warrants The Select Board reviewed an accounts payable warrant in the amount of $1,613,540.86. Action Items No specific action items were raised. X. COMMITTEE REPORTS Member Lehtinen noted the School Committee meeting is scheduled for the following day and that the Board of Assessors will meet on Thursday. He reiterated the ongoing vacancy on the Board of Assessors. Clerk Emkey reported that the Finance Committee met the prior week for its initial review of warrant articles, with no votes taken. She noted the Finance Committee requested presentations in advance of Tri-Board meetings and is tentatively scheduling a public hearing for November 13. She also noted the Stormwater Task Force may not meet that week if no agenda had been posted. Chair Nuzzolo reported that the Council on Aging met that morning and conducted an initial introduction to the Bylaw Review process, with a focus on the Council on Aging bylaw scheduled for the next meeting. He also noted that the Eagle House Supporters will host a Festival of Trees fundraising event, with a viewing event at the Lunenburg Adult Activity Center on Friday, November 21. He reported that construction has begun on a satellite health center in Groton, with an anticipated opening in late 2026 or early 2027, pending DPH approval. Finally, he noted that a bill filed by a state representative would provide refundable tax credits of up to $1,500 to family caregivers. XI. UPCOMING MEETINGS/EVENTS SCHEDULE The next Select Board meeting is scheduled for October 21, 2025. XII. PUBLIC COMMENT** • PUBLIC Ana Lockwood, 91 Main Street, addressed the Select Board regarding the importance of public input in bylaw changes. She stated that meaningful bylaw changes in Lunenburg have historically been accompanied by robust public engagement processes including charrettes and public forums and that this standard should be maintained. She noted that the APDC voted to request the current Town Meeting warrant article in December 2024, at a meeting with only three members present, and that no public listening sessions had been held with residents of the village district. Ms. Lockwood ===PAGE 9=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 9 of 9 also expressed concern about the noise ordinance, citing the failure of a prior iteration at town meeting despite prior public hearings, and cautioned that reliance on officer discretion in enforcement invites inconsistent application. She expressed appreciation for the Select Board's more deliberate approach during the current meeting compared to the prior meeting and urged the Select Board to continue welcoming public participation, including by maintaining public comment at the beginning of meetings. • TOWN MANAGER The Town Manager had no comment. • BOARD No Select Board members offered comment. XIII. EXECUTIVE SESSION Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to reenter into open session pursuant to MGL c. 30 § 21 (a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to litigation if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the public body and the Chair so declares (Department of Industrial Accidents Claim). Motion by Chair Nuzzolo Seconded by Member Brian Lehtinen. Roll Call Vote: Member McLeod – Aye, Member Lehtinen – Aye, Clerk Emkey – Aye, Vice-Chair Moore – Aye, Chair Nuzzolo – Aye. Motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). XIV. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned into Executive Session at 9:17 PM with no return to open session. Respectfully Submitted, Renee Emkey These Minutes were reviewed and approved by the Select Board on: Tuesday, September 15, 2026 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-10-14-minutes-rr2026-09-18.txt BOARD : select-board DATE : 2025-10-14 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/select-board/2025-10-14-minutes-rr2026-09-18.txt ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 1 of 9 Town of Lunenburg Select Board Meeting Minutes Town Hall, 17 Main Street and via Zoom Tuesday, October 14, 2025 Members Present: Chair Caesar Nuzzolo, Vice-Chair Amanda Moore, Clerk Renee Emkey, Member Brian Lehtinen, and Member Glenn McLeod Members Absent: none Also Present: Jennifer Warren-Dyment, Town Manager Public Comment Participants are listed in the minutes I. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chair Caesar Nuzzolo called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chair Nuzzolo advised those present that the meeting was being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access Channel, on Facebook Live, and would be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube Channel following the meeting. He explained that the agenda listed topics that may be discussed, but not all items may be addressed and other items not listed could be brought up as permitted by open meeting law. II. ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Nuzzolo delivered the following community announcements: ● The Teen Center's 9th Annual Shrieks and Creeks Haunted House and Hayride is scheduled for Saturday, October 18th from 6:30–9:30 PM. Those wishing to volunteer may contact andy@theclubltc.org. ● The Master Plan Steering Committee will host a public meeting at Smokestack Roasters on Wednesday, October 22nd from 6:30–8:30 PM to gather final public input on the master plan. ● The Lunenburg Public Library's 20th Birthday Party will be held on Friday, October 24th at 5:00 PM, featuring cake, activities, and a jazz ukulele concert. ● Fall 2025 Yard Waste Days run from October 18th through December 6th at the landfill on Youngs Road, open 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the exception of the week of Thanksgiving. III. SCHEDULED MEETINGS AND HEARINGS 7:05 PM License Application for Joyce Higgins with Weathervane Home Services For Door-To-Door Solicitation Joyce Higgins appeared remotely via Zoom on behalf of Weathervane Home Services. She confirmed that the purpose of the door-to-door solicitation is to assist residents in signing up for energy assessments through Mass Save, which residents are eligible for every two years as a benefit funded through their utility bills. Clerk Renee Emkey asked for clarification on days and hours of operation. Ms. Higgins confirmed operations would be Monday through Friday, approximately 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM, with no weekend work. ===PAGE 2=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 2 of 9 Motion by Vice-Chair Amanda Moore to approve the license application for door-to-door solicitation for Joyce Higgins with Weathervane Home Services. Seconded by Clerk Renee Emkey. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). 7:10 PM Tollbooth Fundraiser Request, Salvation Army for Red Kettle Campaign on December 13, 2025 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. David MacDonald and Lynette Valentine Warren, representing the Salvation Army, appeared before the Select Board to present the Red Kettle Campaign tollbooth fundraiser request. Mr. MacDonald emphasized that all funds collected locally remain in the community to support residents of Fitchburg, Leominster, and Lunenburg. He noted that this would be his final Red Kettle Drive in Lunenburg, as he is relocating. Ms. Valentine Warren outlined the range of programs supported by Red Kettle donations, including a music education program, a summer camp program, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund for residents who do not qualify for standard fuel assistance, a food pantry, and social service support for rent and utility payments. The Select Board expressed appreciation for the presenters' longstanding service to the community. Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to approve the tollbooth fundraiser request for the Salvation Army for the Red Kettle Campaign on December 13, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Four – Aye. One – Nay (Member Glenn McLeod). The motion passed (4-0-1). IV. PUBLIC COMMENT Public Comment Sharon Jordan, 77 Burrage Street, addressed the Select Board to announce the Second No Kings Day protest, scheduled for Saturday, October 18 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Fitchburg City Hall. Ms. Jordan expressed her concerns regarding what she characterized as federal constitutional violations, including due process and citizenship rights, and invited the public to attend the peaceful assembly. Matthew Brenner, 619 Northfield Road and Chair of the Planning Board, appeared as a private citizen to provide historical context on the proposed warrant article to merge the Architectural Preservation District Commission (APDC) with the Historical Commission. Mr. Brenner cautioned that the APDC was intentionally established as distinct from a historical preservation body, modeled after similar bylaws in Salem, and was designed to allow modern building materials and codes while preserving the aesthetic character of the downtown. He expressed concern that merging the two bodies would shift the focus toward historical preservation in a manner inconsistent with the original purpose of the district, citing as an example the APDC's requirement that Ritter be fitted with custom single-pane windows rather than modern double-pane alternatives at greater cost and long-term inefficiency to the town. He further noted that the Historical Commission has no compositional requirements analogous to those of the APDC, and urged that any expansion of historic preservation standards should occur only after significant public engagement. John Rabbit, 314 Townsend Harbor Road and member of the Council on Aging, commended the Town Manager and the Select Board for fostering a collaborative spirit across town departments. He highlighted the integration of the Meals on Wheels and library book lending programs, cooperative fundraising between the Boys and Girls Club and the Council on Aging, and the leadership of Senior Center Director Deb Goodsell and Council on Aging Director Deb Lincoln. Mr. Rabbit praised the ===PAGE 3=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 3 of 9 overall level of activity and community support being provided through the senior center and urged the Board to continue its encouragement of interdepartmental cooperation. Tom Alonzo, 284 Lancaster Avenue, acknowledged the recent passing of two Lunenburg centenarians. He noted that Kay Previtt, who passed at age 102, was co-founder of the Art in Bloom fundraising event at the Fitchburg Art Museum and was actively engaged at the Lunenburg Senior Center well into her nineties, having been the first recipient of the Town Century Award. He also recognized Mario Pitacciola, a World War II Navy veteran who passed away at approximately 100 years of age, noting his faithful attendance at Memorial Day ceremonies and his involvement in the bocce court at the senior center. Mr. Alonzo also thanked the Lunenburg Public Library, its Board of Trustees, and the Friends of the Library for the library's 20th anniversary celebration, and encouraged residents to attend the closing anniversary party on Friday, October 24 from 5:00 to 6:30 PM. V. APPOINTMENTS, RATIFICATIONS, AND RESIGNATIONS • Acknowledge the Resignation of Jennifer Daigle, Planning Administrative Assistant Town Manager Jennifer Warren-Dyment informed the Select Board that Planning Administrative Assistant Jennifer Daigle had accepted a position in the private sector. The Town Manager acknowledged Ms. Daigle's contributions to keeping the planning department operational and thanked her for her service. VI. TOWN MANAGER REPORT Town Manager Warren-Dyment presented the following report: Massachusetts Municipal Association Report. The MMA, in partnership with the Center for State Policy Analysis at Tufts University, released a report titled A Perfect Storm: Cities and Towns Face Historic Fiscal Pressures. The report highlights that municipalities statewide are facing rising costs and sluggish state aid, that local revenue-raising capacity is constrained by state law and Proposition 2½, and that rural communities such as Lunenburg have been disproportionately impacted in areas including education spending. Key data points included that real, inflation-adjusted municipal spending growth averaged only 0.6% per year between 2010 and 2022 below the national average of 1% while state budget spending grew at approximately 2.8% per year. Unrestricted general government aid (UGGA) has fallen 25% in real terms since 2002 despite strong state revenue growth. The Town Manager noted that the report confirms this is a statewide issue, not one unique to Lunenburg, and that the report would be posted to the town website. Public Employee Committee (PEC) Engagement. The first formal discussion with the PEC regarding potential modifications to health benefits occurred the prior week. The next meeting is scheduled for December 4th, at which a smaller negotiating team will be formed. Payroll and Benefits Coverage. The town engaged an outside contractor, Richard Tomichick, through Robert Half, to provide interim payroll and benefits coverage on a full-time basis. Mr. Tomichick brings payroll, accounting, and prior Munis experience. His engagement is intended to ensure continuity following the departure of Nancy O'Rourke at the end of the month. Interim Planning Director Services. The Town has re-engaged Richard Harris to provide interim planning director services, including planning board support, application review, and oversight of ===PAGE 4=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 4 of 9 development projects, while the search for a permanent director continues. Labor Negotiations — Fire. The Town Manager received the official request from Lunenburg Professional Firefighters Local 5369 to begin negotiations on the FY27–FY31 collective bargaining agreement. Labor and Employment Law Update. The Town Manager attended a session hosted by labor counsel Mirick O'Connell covering ADA accommodations, investigation compliance, and wage and hour law updates. Master Plan Public Meeting. The Master Plan Steering Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, October 22 from 6:30–8:30 PM at Smokestack Roasters. Additional information is available at planLunenburg.org. Trick-or-Treat Hours. Suggested trick-or-treat hours for Halloween are 6:00–8:00 PM. Current Recruitments. Open positions include: Payroll and Benefits (36 hrs), Assistant Town Accountant (32 hrs), Dietary Aide (9 hrs), Intermittent Heavy Equipment Operator, Land Use Director (40 hrs), Administrative Assistant to Planning and Building Departments (36 hrs), and Recreation Director (19 hrs). Board and Committee Vacancies. Vacancies exist on the Agricultural Commission, APDC, Cultural Council, Green Communities, Historical Commission, Personnel Board, PAC, ZBA (Associate Member), and the 1st Middlesex Small Towns Collaborative representative position. Elected board vacancies include the Board of Assessors, Planning Board, Sewer Commission, and Trust Fund Commission. The Town Manager placed particular emphasis on the Board of Assessors vacancy as a critical need. VII. NEW BUSINESS No items were presented under this agenda item. VIII. OLD BUSINESS • Discussion on November 18, 2025 Special Town Meeting and Warrant Articles The Select Board conducted a comprehensive review of all warrant articles proposed for the November 18, 2025 Special Town Meeting. Planning Board Chair Matthew Brenner was invited to address two planning-related articles first, given his presence at the meeting. Articles O and P — MBTA Zoning Act Compliance and Common Drive Amendments (Planning Board Articles) Planning Board Chair Brenner explained that Article O represents the culmination of the Planning Board's MBTA Communities compliance work. Based on public feedback received during prior information sessions, the community expressed a preference for leveraging existing zoning infrastructure rather than adopting a broad MBTA-style multi-family overlay. The Planning Board elected to pursue what Mr. Brenner described as "taking credit for the hard work we already did," noting that Lunenburg holds the first 40R district in the Commonwealth, located at Tri Town. The article proposes to increase the allowable density at Tri Town from 22 units per acre to 26 units per acre to achieve state compliance. Mr. Brenner characterized this as paper compliance, anticipating no meaningful near-term development change, as the existing site is built out to 17–20 units per acre ===PAGE 5=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 5 of 9 and redevelopment is not economically feasible in the foreseeable future. Clerk Emkey encouraged residents to view the Planning Board's public information session recordings on the PAC YouTube channel for additional context. Member McLeod echoed that recommendation, expressing broader concern about state-mandated zoning changes impacting rural communities and noted the tension between state housing policy and local infrastructure capacity, including the loss of regional healthcare services. Mr. Brenner added a cautionary note that while Lunenburg has benefited from forward-thinking zoning practices, the town is approaching a point where prior proactive measures are now state mandates, and that failure to continue planning ahead risks future top-down state intervention. He urged continued vigilance. Article P addresses a straightforward correction to the common driveway bylaw, which had inadvertently included a requirement that common driveways be constructed of bituminous concrete (asphalt). Mr. Brenner explained this requirement was unintended, is more costly for developers and homeowners, and is worse for the environment. The article simply removes that language, allowing gravel or other surfaces. Motion to refer the planning articles to the Planning Board under the requirements of MGL Chapter 40A, Section 5 was made by the Chair and seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). The Select Board then proceeded through the remaining warrant articles: Article A — Previously voted to include; Board recommendation of approval, 5-0. No further discussion. Article B — Amending the FY2026 Omnibus Budget. Previously voted to include; deferred. Town Manager Warren-Dyment noted there are anticipated transfers from the salary reserve and a potential additional appropriation to address gaps in the accounting office. The article will be printed as drafted, with a comprehensive handout of all transfers to be distributed at town meeting. Deferred. Article C — Authorization to Pay Expenses from a Prior Fiscal Year. Previously voted to include; deferred. No new discussion. Articles D and E — Stormwater Utility and School Mini-Splits. Town Manager Warren-Dyment confirmed amounts: $42,900 for the stormwater consultant and $28,000 for the school mini-split overage. She indicated a preference for combining both articles into one to simplify the appropriation source language, and stated she would ask Town Counsel to consolidate them into a single article offering flexibility on the funding source. Article F — Public Access Cable Committee Transfer of Funds. Town Counsel is drafting a revision. No further discussion. Article G — Cemetery Commission Transfer of Funds. Previously voted to include; recommended approval, 5-0. No further discussion. Article H — Authorization to Appropriate a Sum of Money for Project Estimators. Town Manager Warren-Dyment reported that each use of a project estimator is estimated to cost approximately $7,000, and that a sum of $50,000 is proposed, which would cover several years of use across town departments, including the School Department and DPW. The funding source remains under review, ===PAGE 6=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 6 of 9 with a preference for capital funds, though free cash may be used. The Select Board voted to include Article H in the warrant. Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to include Article H in the warrant. Seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). A recommendation vote was deferred pending confirmation of the funding source. Article I — Establishment of a Special Education Reserve Fund. Member McLeod requested deferral, citing a desire to hear from the Finance Committee before making a recommendation. The Finance Committee is scheduled to hold a Public Hearing on November 13, which would require a special Select Board meeting on November 17, the Monday before Town Meeting, to accommodate final recommendations. The Select Board agreed to schedule a meeting for November 17 for all deferred recommendation votes. Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to defer a recommendation vote on Article I. Seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). Article II — 41A Property Tax Deferral. Chair Nuzzolo summarized the article as increasing income eligibility thresholds for the senior property tax deferral program to the maximum circuit breaker levels: $72,000 for single filers, $91,000 for head of household, and $109,000 for married filers. Town Manager Warren-Dyment noted a pending question to Town Counsel as to whether the previously voted reduction of the interest rate from 8% to 4% requires annual reaffirmation. The Principal Assessor is scheduled to appear the following week, and further discussion was deferred to that meeting. Article J — Main Street Easement. Previously voted to include; recommended approval. No further discussion. Article K — Transfer of the Care, Custody, and Control of Kids Kingdom. Previously voted to include; recommended approval. No further discussion. Article L — Architectural Preservation District Amendments. The Select Board had not previously voted to include this article. Member McLeod stated he believes the article should be removed from the warrant, expressing concern that it has not been sufficiently vetted within the available timeframe, particularly given the recent establishment of the Bylaw Review Committee and the significance of the proposed change. Chair Nuzzolo disagreed that removal was necessary, noting that the primary question for him relates to whether he will vote to recommend the article, not whether it should appear on the warrant. Vice-Chair Moore suggested that the invitation to appear before the Select Board on October 21 be extended to both the full APDC and the full Historical Commission, not just the chairs, given that a quorum may be achievable and broader perspectives would be valuable. Clerk Emkey noted a specific legal question she wished Town Counsel to clarify before that meeting: the potential significance of a word change from "architectural" to "historical" within the bylaw's language. The Select Board agreed to continue discussion when both committees appear the following week. Article M — Notice of Town Meeting Bylaw. Previously voted to include; recommended approval, 5-0. No further discussion. Article N — Noise Ordinance. Town Manager Warren-Dyment summarized concerns raised by the Police Chief, including unintended consequences for commercial properties operating overnight, ===PAGE 7=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 7 of 9 landscaping companies, and the town hall clock chime. The original intent of the ordinance was to provide police with an enforcement tool for residential noise complaints, not to regulate commercial noise or establish a prescriptive decibel standard. Vice-Chair Moore expressed strong concern about the 9:00 PM quiet-hours threshold and potential unintended consequences for summer residential activity, and noted that a prior noise ordinance failed at town meeting even after public hearings. Town Manager Warren-Dyment acknowledged the complexity and noted Town Counsel is working on a redraft. Member McLeod suggested deferring the article to the Annual Town Meeting to allow for greater public engagement, characterizing it as an article that affects every resident in town. The Select Board agreed that more discussion is needed and that next steps are dependent on whether Town Counsel's redraft resolves outstanding concerns. Article Q — Amendments to Salary Administration Plan, Position Titles, and Grades. Town Manager Warren-Dyment presented a proposal to add a temporary title, ”Special Assistant to the Assessor (Temporary)", to the Salary Administration Plan to facilitate the completion of Department of Revenue directive work. A prior RFP for a contractor produced no bids. Under this approach, the individual would be hired as a temporary employee under an employment agreement defining specific working conditions and excluding standard SAP benefits, using the $27,500 appropriated at the May Annual Town Meeting. The Select Board agreed to defer a vote to include until the principal assessor could be heard the following week. Article R — Salary Administration Plan Amendments. Town Manager Warren-Dyment noted several clarifications were made since the prior meeting: a proposed qualifying-language change in Section 70-3 was withdrawn as unnecessary; language was added to address grievance procedures for employees who are themselves department heads; and Section 70-12A's language regarding hiring above Step 4 was flagged as requiring refinement if the article is bifurcated. The Select Board reached consensus to split Article R into two separate articles: one addressing employee-focused changes to the SAP (including vacation, sick leave, grievance procedures, and compensation modernization), and a second addressing the proposed elimination of the Personnel Committee. Member McLeod characterized the elimination as premature given the lack of public input. The Town Manager acknowledged that the most important components are the employee-facing changes, and noted that in the absence of a Personnel Committee, the Select Board may wish to include fallback language allowing the Select Board to approve hiring above Step 4 should the Personnel Committee be unable to convene. The Select Board directed the Town Manager to prepare a revised draft separating the two components for review the following week. Regarding sick leave incentive language in Section 70-21, the Select Board discussed whether the current quarterly calculation (one personal day for each three-month period without sick leave use) had been modified in the most recent Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the clerical union. After reviewing available documents, the Select Board concluded the provision had not been changed in the most recent MOA and agreed to leave it as is, maintaining the three-month period. • Discussion on Tri-Board Meeting of the Select Board, Finance Committee, and School Committee Clerk Emkey inquired about the timing of the next Tri-Board meeting. Town Manager Warren-Dyment indicated it would be held at the end of November, likely the week of November 17 or the week of Thanksgiving. The Select Board agreed the Thanksgiving week should be avoided due to travel conflicts and that the meeting should not be held immediately following Town Meeting. A ===PAGE 8=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 8 of 9 specific date was not confirmed. IX. MINUTES/WARRANTS/ACTION ITEMS Minutes • Review and Approve Minutes for September 23, 2025* Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to approve the minutes from September 23, 2025. Seconded by Member Brian Lehtinen. Call for Vote: Five – Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). Warrants The Select Board reviewed an accounts payable warrant in the amount of $1,613,540.86. Action Items No specific action items were raised. X. COMMITTEE REPORTS Member Lehtinen noted the School Committee meeting is scheduled for the following day and that the Board of Assessors will meet on Thursday. He reiterated the ongoing vacancy on the Board of Assessors. Clerk Emkey reported that the Finance Committee met the prior week for its initial review of warrant articles, with no votes taken. She noted the Finance Committee requested presentations in advance of Tri-Board meetings and is tentatively scheduling a public hearing for November 13. She also noted the Stormwater Task Force may not meet that week if no agenda had been posted. Chair Nuzzolo reported that the Council on Aging met that morning and conducted an initial introduction to the Bylaw Review process, with a focus on the Council on Aging bylaw scheduled for the next meeting. He also noted that the Eagle House Supporters will host a Festival of Trees fundraising event, with a viewing event at the Lunenburg Adult Activity Center on Friday, November 21. He reported that construction has begun on a satellite health center in Groton, with an anticipated opening in late 2026 or early 2027, pending DPH approval. Finally, he noted that a bill filed by a state representative would provide refundable tax credits of up to $1,500 to family caregivers. XI. UPCOMING MEETINGS/EVENTS SCHEDULE The next Select Board meeting is scheduled for October 21, 2025. XII. PUBLIC COMMENT** • PUBLIC Ana Lockwood, 91 Main Street, addressed the Select Board regarding the importance of public input in bylaw changes. She stated that meaningful bylaw changes in Lunenburg have historically been accompanied by robust public engagement processes including charrettes and public forums and that this standard should be maintained. She noted that the APDC voted to request the current Town Meeting warrant article in December 2024, at a meeting with only three members present, and that no public listening sessions had been held with residents of the village district. Ms. Lockwood ===PAGE 9=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 14, 2025 Page 9 of 9 also expressed concern about the noise ordinance, citing the failure of a prior iteration at town meeting despite prior public hearings, and cautioned that reliance on officer discretion in enforcement invites inconsistent application. She expressed appreciation for the Select Board's more deliberate approach during the current meeting compared to the prior meeting and urged the Select Board to continue welcoming public participation, including by maintaining public comment at the beginning of meetings. • TOWN MANAGER The Town Manager had no comment. • BOARD No Select Board members offered comment. XIII. EXECUTIVE SESSION Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to reenter into open session pursuant to MGL c. 30 § 21 (a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to litigation if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the public body and the Chair so declares (Department of Industrial Accidents Claim). Motion by Chair Nuzzolo Seconded by Member Brian Lehtinen. Roll Call Vote: Member McLeod – Aye, Member Lehtinen – Aye, Clerk Emkey – Aye, Vice-Chair Moore – Aye, Chair Nuzzolo – Aye. Motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). XIV. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned into Executive Session at 9:17 PM with no return to open session. Respectfully Submitted, Renee Emkey These Minutes were reviewed and approved by the Select Board on: Tuesday, September 15, 2026 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-10-21-agenda-7466.txt BOARD : select-board DATE : 2025-10-21 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/select-board/2025-10-21-agenda-7466.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10212025-7466 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== SELECT BOARD Tuesday, October 21, 2025 7:00 PM AGENDA 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://zoom.us/j/9091740347 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 m eeting 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. 7:00 PM CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE II. ANNOUNCEMENTS III. PUBLIC COMMENT*** • PUBLIC • BOARD IV. SCHEDULED MEETINGS AND HEARINGS 7:05 PM Public Hearing: Pole Petition for Townsend Harbor Road Plan #979-L, Proposed relocation of Pole #14, 13’ of property line. Approximately 1959’ from Massachusetts Avenue and approximately 331’ from Woodland Drive. 7:10 PM Public Hearing: Pole Petition for Howard Street Plan #980-L, Proposed new pole #44A. Approximately 2882’ from New West Townsend Road and approximately 996’ from Sequoia Drive. 7:15 PM Earth Removal Permit Renewals • Jim Latanzi- 780 Northfield Road- SBER-25-7 (Formerly Permit 61) 7:30 PM Discussion with Town Officials on Warrant Articles for November 18, 2025 Special Town Meeting • Superintndent of Schools • Principal Assessor • Architectural Preservation District Commission (APDC) Chair • Historical Commission Chair ===PAGE 2=== V. APPOINTMENTS, RATIFICATIONS, AND RESIGNATIONS VI. TOWN MANAGER REPORT VII. NEW BUSINESS VIII. OLD BUSINESS • Discussion and Vote on Special Town Meeting Warrant and Booklet • Discussion on Tri-Board Meeting of the Select Board, Finance Committee, and School Committee IX. MINUTES/WARRANTS/ACTION ITEMS X. COMMITTEE REPORTS XI. UPCOMING MEETINGS/EVENTS SCHEDULE • November 4, 2025 • November 18, 2025 Special Town Meeting XII. PUBLIC COMMENT*** • PUBLIC • TOWN MANAGER • BOARD XIII. ADJOURN *** Per Policy, Public comment is limited to 15 minutes, with no more than 3 minutes per speaker except at the discretion of the Chairperson ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-10-21-minutes-7466.txt BOARD : select-board DATE : 2025-10-21 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/select-board/2025-10-21-minutes-7466.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10212025-7466 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 1 of 12 Town of Lunenburg Select Board Meeting Minutes Town Hall, 17 Main Street and via Zoom Tuesday, October 21, 2025 Members Present: Chair Caesar Nuzzolo, Vice-Chair Amanda Moore, Clerk Renee Emkey, Member Brian Lehtinen, and Member Glenn McLeod Members Absent: none Also Present: Jennifer Warren-Dyment, Town Manager Public Comment Participants are listed in the minutes I. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chair Caesar Nuzzolo called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chair Nuzzolo advised those present that the meeting was being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access Channel, on Facebook Live, and would be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube Channel following the meeting. He explained that the agenda listed topics that may be discussed, but not all items may be addressed and other items not listed could be brought up as permitted by open meeting law. II. ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Nuzzolo announced the following upcoming community events: The Master Plan Steering Committee would be hosting a final public meeting at Smokestack Roasters on October 22, 2025, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM to gather final community input on the Town's master plan. The Lunenburg Public Library was celebrating its 20th anniversary throughout the month, featuring scavenger hunts for adults, teens, and children with prize drawings, a Friends of the Library fundraiser offering donated skills and services, a 20th Birthday Party on Friday, October 24 at 5:00 PM with cake, prize announcements, and a jazz ukulele concert, and a Halloween Costume Parade on Monday, October 27 at 11:00 AM for children ages five and under, beginning at the library and proceeding to other town buildings for trick-or-treating. III. PUBLIC COMMENT Public Comment Ana Lockwood, 91 Main Street, read a written statement on behalf of Linda McDonald of 1004 Massachusetts Avenue, who expressed distress over proposed restrictions to her property and objected to the lack of individual notification to affected residents. Ms. Lockwood then offered her own comments, citing the APDC Chair's remarks from a prior meeting attributing the failure to engage the public on this matter to the Select Board, and called upon the Select Board to exercise its authority as gatekeeper of the warrant to remove the article. She further referenced the Select Board's prior decision not to add an override to the Town elections ballot despite Town Meeting approval, questioning the consistency of the Select Board's willingness to intervene. Leigh O'Brien, 92 Leominster Road, stated that she had only learned of the proposed merger through social media the day prior. She expressed concern about the discriminatory and divisive ===PAGE 2=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 2 of 12 nature of imposing restrictions on a specific segment of property owners, characterized the proposal as an abuse of government authority, and requested that a map and description of specific restrictions be made available to affected residents. Nathan Lockwood, 91 Main Street, identified himself as an APDC member. He acknowledged the value of exploring the merger but expressed concern that the article was not sufficiently vetted, noting that the warrant language had not yet been made public and that significant details, including changes in the venue for appeals and potential shifts in bylaw language, had only recently come to light. He asked that the article not be placed on the warrant at this time and recommended a more deliberate public process prior to any future submission. Sharon McCullough, 10 Massachusetts Avenue, recounted a prior experience in which construction work on her property was halted because the proper paperwork had not been submitted to the APDC. She expressed concern about further restrictions on her ability to maintain and improve her home, and stated that she had not been informed or consulted about the proposed changes. She requested that the article be withheld from the warrant. Harry Kubetz, 125 Howard Street and 944 Massachusetts Avenue, participated via Zoom. He expressed respect for the Select Board and stated that the article was developed without public notice or input, that the language was not posted on the town website, and that what was characterized as a simple merger in fact constituted a substantive change in the nature of the district. He urged the Select Board to reject or delay the article to safeguard residents and maintain public trust, and suggested the matter be brought before voters at a regular annual town meeting in the spring. John Bowen, 162 Highland Street, offered context regarding appeals under historical commission bylaws, noting that variances are available through the state historic commission and that certified contractors are a standard requirement in historical districts. He observed that this process had been publicly discussed over the past year and that an appointed board operating under state guidelines still carries legitimate authority. Board Comment Vice-Chair Amanda Moore encouraged those in attendance who were present primarily for the APDC matter to remain for or later view the full meeting, as that topic would be addressed in depth during the agenda's scheduled discussion period. Chair Nuzzolo likewise reserved his comments for that agenda item. IV. SCHEDULED MEETINGS AND HEARINGS 7:05 PM Public Hearing: Pole Petition for Townsend Harbor Road Plan #979-L, Proposed relocation of Pole #14, 13’ of property line. Approximately 1959’ from Massachusetts Avenue and approximately 331’ from Woodland Drive. Clerk Renee Emkey read the public hearing notice: In conformity with the requirements of Section 22 of Chapter 166 of the General Laws (Ter. Ed.), you are hereby notified that a public hearing will be held at the Town Hall, 17 Main Street, 2nd Floor, in the Joseph F. Bilotta Meeting Room, Lunenburg, MA, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 upon petition of Fitchburg Gas and Electric Light Company for permission to erect or construct, and ===PAGE 3=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 3 of 12 a location for, a line of wires, poles and such other fixtures as may be necessary to sustain or protect the wires of the line, for the transmission of electricity, upon, along, across, or under the following public ways of said Town: TOWNSEND HARBOR RD: (1) Proposed relocation of Pole #14, 13' of property line. Approximately 1959' from Massachusetts Ave and approximately 331' from Woodland Dr. Location as shown on sketch. Plan No. 979-L, Dated 9/8/25. A representative from Fitchburg Gas and Electric Light Company (Unitil) explained that the proposed relocation of Pole #14 by 13 feet was necessary to serve a new home being constructed at 126 Townsend Harbor Road without encroaching on an adjacent property line. Town Manager Jennifer Warren-Dyment noted that the DPW Director had inspected the proposed relocation and had no objections or concerns. No members of the public offered comment. Motion by Vice-Chair Moore to close the public hearing. Seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five - Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). Motion by Vice-Chair Moore to approve the proposed relocation of Pole #14, 13 feet on the property line. Seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five - Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). 7:10 PM Public Hearing: Pole Petition for Howard Street Plan #980-L, Proposed new pole #44A. Approximately 2882’ from New West Townsend Road and approximately 996’ from Sequoia Drive. Clerk Emkey read the public hearing notice: In conformity with the requirements of Section 22 of Chapter 166 of the General Laws (Ter. Ed.), you are hereby notified that a public hearing will be held at the Town Hall, 17 Main Street, 2nd Floor, in the Joseph F. Bilotta Meeting Room, Lunenburg, MA, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 upon petition of Fitchburg Gas and Electric Light Company for permission to erect or construct, and a location for, a line of wires, poles and such other fixtures as may be necessary to sustain or protect the wires of the line, for the transmission of electricity, upon, along, across, or under the following public ways of said Town: HOWARD STREET (1) Proposed new Pole #44A. Approximately 2882’ from New West Townsend Road and approximately 996’ from Sequoia Drive. Location as shown on sketch. Plan No. 980-L, dated 9/16/25 The Unitil representative explained that the addition of new Pole #44A was required because serving a new underground service customer from the existing Pole #44 would require crossing property lines, which is not permissible regardless of overhead or underground installation. The DPW Director had inspected and raised no objection. No members of the public offered comment. Motion by Vice-Chair Moore to close the public hearing. Seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five - Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). ===PAGE 4=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 4 of 12 Motion to approve the proposed new Pole #44A was made by Vie-Chair Moore and seconded by Clerk Emkey. Call for Vote: Five - Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). 7:15 PM Earth Removal Permit Renewals • Jim Latanzi- 780 Northfield Road- SBER-25-7 (Formerly Permit 61) Town Manager Warren-Dyment explained that this permit had not come before the Select Board during the prior renewal cycle due to a timing discrepancy. The applicant was nearly finished with the permitted work but required additional time to complete operations through the remainder of the calendar year. The Building Commissioner had inspected the site and raised no concerns. Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to approve the earth removal permit for Jim Latanzi, 780 Northfield Road, SBER-25-7. Seconded by Vice-Chair Moore. Call for Vote: Five - Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). 7:30 PM Discussion with Town Officials on Warrant Articles for November 18, 2025 Special Town Meeting • Superintndent of Schools School Superintendent was not present. • Principal Assessor Principal Assessor – Article II (41A Deferral) and DOR Directives Principal Assessor Lynda Cajka appeared via Zoom to present two matters. First, she described the proposed Article II warrant article, which would increase the maximum qualifying income for the town's existing Chapter 59, Section 5(41A) property tax deferral program. The current income limit of $20,000 has remained fixed for nearly two decades. The proposed article would align the income thresholds with the 2024 Massachusetts circuit breaker tax credit eligibility levels: $72,000 for single filers, $91,000 for head-of-household filers, and $109,000 for married filers, effective Fiscal Year 2026, with subsequent years indexed to the then-current circuit breaker limits. Town Manager Warren-Dyment noted that a legal question had been submitted to Town Counsel Adam Costa regarding whether the statute caps the locally adopted income limit at the single, non-head-of-household amount of $72,000 for all categories, or permits the higher thresholds for married and head-of-household filers. Town Counsel Costa, participating via Zoom, confirmed he would provide an answer by the following day, noting the outcome would determine whether the two higher income figures remain in the article or are adjusted to a uniform $72,000 cap. Chair Nuzzolo expressed strong support for the article, noting that it would meaningfully expand access to the deferral program for senior residents. Second, Principal Assessor Cajka described the DOR directive to undertake a full neighborhood code review. She explained that the town's current neighborhoods, particularly Neighborhood 3 which encompasses the majority of the town, have not been formally reviewed or recategorized in many years, and that the Division of Local Services has required this work to be completed prior to the next full revaluation. Town Manager Warren-Dyment explained that an RFP for this work had previously been issued but received no responses, and that the proposed Article Q would create a temporary in-house position to accomplish this work, utilizing at minimum the $27,500 previously appropriated for that purpose. The position would be structured on short-term renewable contracts, ===PAGE 5=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 5 of 12 likely drawing from a pool of retired assessors. • Historical Commission Chair Historical Commission Chair – Article L (APDC/Historical Commission Merger) The Select Board took a brief recess to allow members to review a research document prepared by Clerk Emkey summarizing APDC meeting records and public outreach efforts related to the merger proposal. Historical Commission Chair Richard McGrath addressed the Select Board and described the origins and purpose of the proposed merger. He explained that the goal was consolidation and operational efficiency, noting that both the Historical Commission and the APDC have experienced recurring difficulties achieving quorum. He stated that the Historical Commission was established in June 1979, successfully completed the nomination of 77 buildings in the town center to the National Register of Historic Places in the 1980s, and has historically been responsible for overseeing the town's historic assets. He explained that the proposed warrant article would simply transfer the administrative responsibility for the Architectural Preservation District from the APDC to the Historical Commission, with all existing bylaw standards remaining unchanged, resulting in one commission performing work currently divided between two. Chair Nuzzolo asked whether the full Historical Commission membership had been trained on the APD bylaw. Chair McGrath acknowledged that only he, as the Historical Commission's appointed liaison to the APDC, had detailed familiarity with the bylaw, but characterized the document as straightforward and not requiring extensive preparation. He noted that the Historical Commission had voted 2 to 1 in favor of the merger at its most recent meeting, with one member absent. Town Counsel Costa provided substantive legal context. He explained that historical commissions are statutory bodies created under M.G.L. c. 40, §8D, with authority tied to historic attributes of a community. In drafting the warrant article, he had replaced references to "architectural" significance with "historic" significance in the purpose clause and definitions of the APD bylaw, in order to align the administering body's statutory authority with the language of the bylaw and to avoid a potential rejection by the Attorney General's office. He cautioned, however, that even with these adjustments, there remained a real possibility that the Attorney General could decline to approve the article on the grounds that a statutory historical commission cannot be assigned authority under a locally adopted home rule bylaw in this manner. He noted that these substitutions of language—while not intended to alter the substantive experience of APD residents—could theoretically be read as narrowing the bylaw's scope from architectural to purely historical attributes. Town Counsel Costa further clarified, in response to Clerk Emkey's questions, that the appeal process for APD decisions was not changed by the proposed article. Appeals were already directed to Superior Court under a certiorari review process, and this remained identical under the proposed language. He described this as a records-based review process that is generally more expedited than a traditional zoning appeal, though it still finds its way to Superior Court in the majority of cases. Clerk Emkey noted that the only substantive change she could identify in the proposed article, beyond the substitution of the administering body, was the deletion of the APDC's membership qualification requirements, which had included provisions for a resident of the district and a design professional. Town Counsel Costa confirmed that those provisions were deleted because the APDC itself would no longer exist, and that while similar qualifications could theoretically be added to the Historical Commission's bylaws, doing so would require amendments to both the general bylaw ===PAGE 6=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 6 of 12 article governing the Historical Commission and potentially further review. • Architectural Preservation District Commission (APDC) Chair APDC Chair Anthony Sculimbrene also addressed the Select Board. He explained that the merger concept had originated from his concern about operational inefficiencies across the Town's many volunteer boards and his desire to prevent the Historical Commission from becoming dormant as other committees had. He stated that the process had been conducted entirely in open public meetings, that the merger had appeared on the APDC's public agenda repeatedly over the past year, and that he had previously appeared before the Select Board in October, 2024 to discuss the concept. He expressed frustration with the characterization that the process had lacked transparency, noting that he had attempted on multiple occasions to advance the matter with Town Counsel and the Town Manager, and that delays were attributable to competing priorities rather than any deficiency in the APDC's conduct. Chair Sculimbrene argued that the distinction between "architectural" and "historic" preservation had been overstated by opponents, noting that the bylaw itself defines eligible buildings by an age threshold of 75 years, making the standards inherently objective. He contended that the proposed article did not make the bylaw more or less onerous for residents and expressed confidence that he could make the case to town meeting voters. He acknowledged, however, that there was no urgent operational necessity to proceed at the special town meeting rather than in the spring. APDC Member Nathan Lockwood offered additional remarks. He raised the concern that while the written text of the bylaw may remain largely unchanged, the "culture" of the administering body would have significant practical implications for how the bylaw is interpreted and applied. He cited the Town's experience with the Ritter Library window replacement project as an example of overly rigid application of the bylaw, and suggested that a commission composed primarily of individuals oriented toward historical preservation might further shift the balance in that direction. He recommended against placing the article on the Special Town Meeting warrant and urged a more deliberate process involving direct outreach to APD residents prior to any future submission. Town Manager Warren-Dyment addressed the claim that the Select Board's failure to respond to an email from Ana Lockwood had caused the current controversy. She read excerpts from that email, which had included a legal argument that bylaw amendments must go through a formal charter-mandated review process. She noted that Town Counsel had reviewed this claim and found it to be incorrect. Bylaws in Lunenburg do not require submission to the bylaw review committee and are regularly amended through the standard town meeting process without such a review. Clerk Emkey summarized her findings after extensive review of the APDC meeting record. She stated that the intent of the merger was clearly benign and that nothing in the proposed article was intended to change the experience of APD residents. She acknowledged, however, that the short timeline between the draft article's distribution on October 4–5 and the Special Town Meeting, combined with the lack of direct outreach to APD residents, had contributed to significant public anxiety and misinformation. Vice-Chair Moore stated that she shared her colleagues' respect for the APDC's volunteer efforts but was not prepared to advance the article given that the Select Board had only had the draft language for two weeks and that broader public engagement had not occurred. She expressed concern about unintended consequences and recommended deferral. ===PAGE 7=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 7 of 12 Member McLeod stated that he would vote to remove the article from the warrant. He cited his concerns about the substantive difference between architectural and historical preservation, the culture of the enforcing body, the readiness of the Historical Commission to administer the bylaw, and the likely impact on the atmosphere and productivity of a special town meeting. Chair Nuzzolo stated that while he recognized the good faith of the volunteers involved, his concerns had grown throughout the process. He identified the following specific concerns: the meaningful distinction between architectural and historical preservation and how enforcement culture could shift; the Historical Commission's lack of readiness to administer the bylaw; the genuine shock expressed by affected residents who were unaware the article was in development; and his responsibility as a gatekeeper of the warrant to protect the effectiveness of town meeting. He indicated he would vote to remove the article. Member Lehtinen stated he would vote to keep the article on the warrant. Clerk Emkey stated she was prepared to place the article on the warrant, having been satisfied by Town Counsel's responses that the substantive impact on residents would be neutral, with membership composition being the only meaningful structural change. Noise Ordinance Article Town Manager Warren-Dyment reported that she had received feedback from both the Police Chief and the Facilities Director on the proposed noise ordinance draft and had shared that feedback with Town Counsel. Town Counsel Costa provided an overview of noise bylaws generally, distinguishing between quantitative standards (requiring sound level meters and trained operators) and qualitative standards (relying on subjective "plainly audible" thresholds). He characterized the proposed Lunenburg draft as a qualitative bylaw and noted it was among the better-drafted examples he had reviewed, but identified several areas requiring revision, including terminology adjustments and the need to replace the term "special permit" with a more general permit term to avoid confusion with the zoning context. He also noted that the exemptions list, while comprehensive, required additions. Town Counsel and the Town Manager indicated that the article was likely not ready for the special town meeting warrant and recommended further development with a goal of submission at the annual town meeting. Chair Nuzzolo and Select Board Member Moore concurred that the article was not ready for the special town meeting warrant. No action was taken to include it. V. APPOINTMENTS, RATIFICATIONS, AND RESIGNATIONS No items were presented under this agenda item. VI. TOWN MANAGER REPORT Town Manager Warren-Dyment presented the following updates: FY25 Closeout: The CPA firm under contract with the Town has assumed full responsibility for the FY25 year-end closeout. Certification of Free Cash is very unlikely to occur prior to the Special Town Meeting, though no appropriations from free cash are planned for that meeting, so no operational impact is anticipated. ===PAGE 8=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 8 of 12 Tax Classification Hearing: A tentative date of Tuesday, November 25, 2025 has been set for an off-cycle Select Board meeting solely for the purpose of conducting the annual tax classification hearing. This hearing is required prior to the mailing of actual tax bills, which are anticipated to be sent by December 30 and due February 1. The date may shift to December depending on public notice requirements; the Select Board will be notified. Nashoba Associated Boards of Health: Local nursing hours will be paused again through the month of November due to an ongoing staffing shortage. One registered nurse has been hired and services will resume once full staffing is achieved. Residents in need of public health nursing services should contact the Boards of Health directly. FY26 State Earmarks: Governor Healey has announced the withdrawal of $125 million in local earmarks from the FY26 state budget due to revenue shortfalls. The town has two earmarks totaling $70,000 for school guidance, mental health, and special education enhancements, and school security system upgrades. The town has not yet been notified whether its earmarks are among those affected. Representative Scarsdale's office advised that funds are beginning to flow to state agencies and recommended submitting requests for release of funds promptly. The Town Manager initiated that process. Master Plan Steering Committee: The final public meeting on the master plan is scheduled for October 22, 2025, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at Smokestack Roasters. Additional information is available at planlunenburg.org. Trick-or-Treat Hours: Friday, October 31, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Project Updates: ● TC PASSIOS Decommissioning: Construction on the firewall for the area to be decommissioned has begun. A minor asbestos abatement was required prior to plumbing and sprinkler work; abatement is complete and plumbers are scheduled for the current week. ● Town Hall Weather Vane: The finial atop Town Hall, which houses the weather vane, was found to be in too poor a condition to accept the new replica installation. It has been sent to a specialist wood shop in Maine for reproduction. A ceremonial installation event is anticipated upon its return. ● Access Control: Long-awaited parts for the town-wide access control system have shipped and installation is underway. Upon completion and programming, town buildings will transition away from keyed access. ● Wallace Park Playground: Fence repairs have been completed and replacement playground equipment has shipped. ● Ritter Building: Interior painting is underway throughout the halls and offices. Recruitment: ● Payroll and Benefits position: posted at 36 hours per week. ● Assistant Town Accountant (32 hours): offer pending as of the meeting date. ● Dietary Aide (9 hours): posted. ● Intermittent Heavy Equipment Operator: posted. ===PAGE 9=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 9 of 12 ● Land Use Director: interview scheduled for Thursday. ● Administrative Assistant, Building Department: offer pending. ● Administrative Assistant, Planning Department: offer pending. Town Manager Warren-Dyment noted that three offers were extended that day and expressed optimism that appointments would be reported at the next meeting. Vacancies on boards and committees remain unchanged from the prior report. In response to a question from Member McLeod regarding Flat Hill, Town Manager Warren-Dyment stated that the Town had previously issued a notification of termination of the agreement and that attorneys were now actively involved. She indicated that the bridge would remain closed for the foreseeable future and that no public update would be available until that phase of the process was concluded. VII. NEW BUSINESS No items were presented under this agenda item. VIII. OLD BUSINESS • Discussion and Vote on Special Town Meeting Warrant and Booklet The Select Board reviewed the status of each proposed warrant article for the November 18, 2025 Special Town Meeting. Article A (Reports of Committees): Previously voted; recommended approval. No further action required. Article B (Amending FY26 Budget): Previously voted; recommended approval. No further action required. Article C (Prior Year Expense): Held as a deferral pending final details. Articles D and E (to be combined): Still under review by Town Counsel; to be finalized at the Friday meeting. Article F (Cemetery Transfer): Previously voted to include; funding source confirmed as old capital. Article G (Project Estimators): Dollar amount confirmed at $50,000; funding source identified as old capital. Article H (Project Estimators): Motion by Clerk Emkey to recommend approval of Article H (Project Estimators). Seconded by Member Lehtinen. Call for Vote: Five - Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). Article I (Special Education Reserve Fund): Clerk Emkey, Vice-Chair Moore, and Member Lehtinen indicated readiness to vote; Member McLeod expressed lingering concern about potential budget impacts if the reserve were to reduce urgency around special education line-item funding. ===PAGE 10=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 10 of 12 Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to recommend approval of Article I (Special Education Reserve Fund). Seconded by Member Lehtinen. Call for Vote: Four – Aye. One – Nay (Member McLeod). The motion passed (4-1-0). Article II (41A Deferral): Pending Town Counsel's response on the income threshold question. Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to include Article II (41A Deferral) in the warrant. Seconded by Member Lehtinen. Call for Vote: Five - Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). Motion by Chair Nuzzolo to recommend approval of Article II (41A Deferral). Seconded by Member Lehtinen. Call for Vote: Five - Aye. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). Article J (21 Main Street Easement): Previously voted; recommended approval unanimously. Article K (Kids Kingdom): Previously voted; recommended approval unanimously. Article L (APDC/Historical Commission Merger): Motion by Member McLeod to remove Article L, the APDC/Historical Commission Merger, from the special town meeting warrant. Seconded by Vice-Chair Moore. Call for Vote: Three -aye. Two – Nay (Member Lehtinen, Clerk Emkey). The motion passed (3-2-0). Noise Ordinance Article: Not advanced to the warrant. No motion required. MBTA Zoning Article: Held pending the outcome of the planning hearing. Article Q (SAP Position Titles and Grades): Still under review by labor counsel; to be finalized at the Friday meeting. The Board acknowledged that the full SAP documents for Articles D/E and Q are each approximately 17 pages in length. Rather than printing the full text in the town meeting booklet, the Select Board agreed by consensus to reference the documents on file with the Town Clerk, with copies to be made available online and in hard copy at town hall, consistent with the standard practice for documents such as zoning maps. • Discussion on Tri-Board Meeting of the Select Board, Finance Committee, and School Committee The Select Board briefly discussed the scheduling of a Tri-Board meeting. It was agreed that the school and general government budget sessions would be held separately, and that the timing would be addressed following the Special Town Meeting. No formal action was taken. IX. MINUTES/WARRANTS/ACTION ITEMS There were no minutes, warrants, or action items to consider. X. COMMITTEE REPORTS Member McLeod reported on his attendance at the MPO meeting the prior Wednesday and noted he had forwarded items of interest to the Town Manager and DPW Manager. He also attended the Library Board meeting on Thursday, which ran from 6:45 to 10:30 PM, and commended that board for its dedication. ===PAGE 11=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 11 of 12 Member Lehtinen reported on two committee meetings. The Board of Assessors met the prior week and would meet again the following day. A volunteer, Brian Marple, has expressed interest in joining the Board. Financial overview data presented at that meeting included: personal property assessed value growth of approximately $68 million equating to approximately $979,000 in tax revenue; residential, commercial, and industrial growth of approximately $398,000; and total estimated growth of approximately $1.3 million. Interim adjustments were introduced, with single-family homes increasing 2.6%, condos 4.5%, two-family homes 2.6%, three-family homes 2.5%, and land values 2.5%. The Board also discussed chapter land review and the ongoing bylaw review. Regarding the Lunenburg Municipal Building Design Committee, Member Lehtinen reported that the committee met the prior day with Town Manager Warren-Dyment. Key discussion points included consolidating all employees under one roof, expanding the Town Clerk vault, allowing off-site archiving, placing high-traffic public-facing departments on the first floor with land-use functions on the second floor, ADA accessibility requirements, and exploring options to reduce costs. Tours of the Ritter Building and Town Hall are scheduled for the following week, with the committee's next meeting set for the first Monday of November. Clerk Emkey reported that the Finance Committee and Stormwater Task Force would both be meeting on Thursday. XI. UPCOMING MEETINGS/EVENTS SCHEDULE Chair Nuzzolo noted the following upcoming meetings: ● Friday, October 24, 2025 at 4:00 PM — Special Select Board meeting (in-person; open to the public) to finalize the special town meeting warrant. ● Tuesday, November 4, 2025 — Regular Select Board meeting. ● Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 7:00 PM — Special Town Meeting. XII. PUBLIC COMMENT** • PUBLIC Ana Lockwood, 91 Main Street, returned to the podium. She disputed the claim that the Historical Commission had lacked quorum, noting that when she and another individual sought to volunteer for the commission the prior year, they were told the commission was at full membership. She drew a parallel between the public reaction to the APDC merger and the community response to past water district proposals, noting that any action touching property rights will consistently generate strong public emotion. She emphasized that her repeated emails to the Select Board were motivated by her inability to vote out or campaign against an appointed board, and expressed the view that the APDC Chair had not genuinely sought public input. She also questioned why the conference call with Town Counsel had not been held as an open public meeting, characterizing that as a contributing factor to the perception of secrecy. Town Manager Warren-Dyment noted that a conference call between a committee chair and Town Counsel does not constitute a meeting of a public body and is not required to be open. Ms. Lockwood concluded by clarifying that her prior email's reference to the bylaw review process was not a legal argument but a recommendation for best practice in transparency, and urged the Select Board to focus on inclusive process over strict legal minimums. ===PAGE 12=== Select Board Meeting Minutes October 21, 2025 Page 12 of 12 John Bowen, 162 Highland Street, expressed broader concerns about civic participation in Lunenburg, noting that approximately 13,000 residents are served by a volunteer governance structure with modest turnout at elections and town meetings. He characterized the recurring factional disputes—over the water district, the APDC, and other matters—as symptoms of an underrepresented population and called for structural reforms including an elected mayor and ward-based representation. He also urged the Town Manager to send formal notices to social media group moderators cautioning them against allowing inflammatory content related to town affairs. Bob Pease, 11 Wingreen Court, participated via Zoom and thanked the Select Board for deferring the APDC merger article. He stated his continued opposition to the merger and expressed concern that the replacement of the word "architectural" with "historical" throughout the bylaw represented a fundamental and substantive change, not merely an administrative one, contrary to how the APDC was originally presented to the public. He cited the Ritter Library window dispute as evidence that Historical Commission members had already been applying historical standards to what should be architectural decisions. • TOWN MANAGER The Town Manager had no comment. • BOARD Member McLeod thanked members of the public for their thoughtful engagement and noted that their input had directly influenced his position on the warrant article. Clerk Emkey briefly explained her vote to keep the article on the warrant, noting that based on Town Counsel's responses she was satisfied that the only substantive change was to membership requirements, and that she was comfortable presenting the article to Town Meeting on those grounds. XIII. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Clerk Emkey to adjourn. Seconded by Vice-Chair Moore. The motion passed unanimously. Call for vote: Five-Aye. Motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). The meeting was adjourned at 10:35 PM. Respectfully Submitted, Renee Emkey These Minutes were reviewed and approved by the Select Board on: Tuesday, September 15, 2026