Resident urges board to unseal minutes, cites staff cuts and missed accountability

Resident Linda Callaway used the public‑comment period to press the board for transparency and answers about recent personnel and process decisions. She said motions to review a decision to downgrade a Department of Public Works operator were not seconded and therefore not considered, and that repeated delays and lack of response had left employees and residents without answers. "We are asking today, on Doug's behalf and as a member of this community, that you answer his request publicly," Callaway said, asking specifically that the May 21 minutes be unsealed and that the board explain why a budgeted full‑time position was reduced.

Callaway framed her request as a call for accountability and described a pattern she and others see as silencing and a lack of respect for public input. She urged the board to reaffirm that public testimony is treated seriously and to provide written follow‑up to outstanding appeals. The board did not act immediately to unseal the minutes during the meeting; the town administrator received the request as part of the public record and the complaint/appeal was entered into the minutes per the speaker’s request.