Rochelle Cooper

The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee meeting addressed various issues, including MassDOT's response to Canterbury residents, Lowell Street improvements, and speed-related signage. Recommendations on motor vehicle speeding were discussed, and the installation of 'Go Slow' signs on Edgemere and Salem Street was noted. Concerns about speeding on Essex and Yorkshire Streets, especially after school hours, were raised. The committee also discussed issues at Salem and Walnut Streets, including the need for a sound barrier, the possibility of stopping right turns on red, and excluding heavy truck traffic. Additionally, the committee reviewed concerns about vehicles crashing into a guardrail and fence on Carpenter Street and discussed parking on Arlington Street. The meeting also touched on the town's vote on funding for road work and what road work could be done in 2005.

The Select Board meeting included discussions on the appointment to the Open Space and Recreation Working Group and a presentation of the FY26 school budget. The budget presentation covered the district's mission, achievements, grant programs, and the financial challenges, including rising costs and special education commitments. The potential for a Proposition 2-1/2 override to preserve the quality of education and avoid layoffs was discussed. Concerns were raised about the sustainability of budget increases, the need for more collaboration, and the importance of avoiding structural deficits. The board also discussed the state of contract negotiations and the use of technology in teaching.

The board discussed and heard public comments on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, including a proposed Proposition 2-1/2 override to fund budget items such as the School Department, Council on Aging, and Library. The Finance Committee and School Committee shared their perspectives on the budget proposal. The board also discussed early voting for a special election, ratified a Memorandum of Agreement with the Lynnfield Library Association, and approved Use of Facilities requests.

The Select Board meeting included a joint session with the School Committee. The meeting was called to order, and a motion was made to enter a joint session with the School Committee, which was unanimously approved. The board anticipated a request for an executive session with the School Committee to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining with the Lynnfield Teachers Association. A motion was made and approved to enter into executive session for this purpose. The executive session was adjourned.

The meeting included a presentation on the library budget proposal, which highlighted new and ongoing programs, the issuance of new library cards, and a state grant to assess the general collection. The library is seeking a 5 percent increase in funding to fund a new teen librarian, aiming to engage teens and partner with local schools. The board also discussed and approved an amendment to the Town Administrator's contract, extending it to February 1, 2027, and granting a salary increase of three percent in each of the two years. Additionally, the board approved Use of Facilities requests, including one for A Healthy Lynnfield's Healthy Lynnfield Expo.