Templeton Select Board reorganizes leadership and honors longtime volunteers

The Templeton Select Board on June 1 elected Jeff Bennett as chair, completed its annual reorganization and presented awards recognizing local volunteers.

The board nominated Bennett for chair and carried the motion after a roll call. Tim was nominated and approved as vice chair and April Cover was selected as clerk. The board also assigned liaison duties for school and regional commissions and discussed pending bylaw changes affecting committee service.

The meeting opened with the board presenting a Citizen of the Year certificate to Bob and Michelle Cody for operating the Templeton Food Pantry since 2020 and recruiting volunteers and partners. The board also honored Beverly Baralameo as the 2026 Hometown Hero for more than 30 years of volunteer service.

During the citizen‑input period, Claire Bridge (speaking as a resident) urged the board to address what she described as a “pattern of inconsistent and unequal treatment” within town government, including budget decisions that she said disadvantaged Parks and Recreation and comments on social media that she called personal attacks. Bridge asked the board to pursue greater accountability and consistent application of rules.

Town officials said they would note Bridge’s comments for follow-up and that personnel or complaint processes might be the appropriate venue for some allegations. The board did not take any immediate personnel action during the meeting.

What happens next: the board completed its reorganization and approved liaison assignments; the awards were presented and will be recorded in the meeting minutes. Several citizens asked the board to review conduct and complaint procedures; the board said it would consider those concerns in future sessions.