April 14, 2025 Select Board meeting recap
Updated on April 17, 2025 to give photo credit to Taylor Gregory.
(4-5 minute read)
For residents looking to stay informed on town government, the April 14 Select Board meeting covered several key topics ranging from leadership changes to local regulation updates. Below is a summary of the most important discussions and decisions made, with added context for how they may impact the Reading community.
Three Things to Know
New Leadership on the Select Board. The Select Board held its annual reorganization, electing new leadership roles. Chris Haley was named Chair, Melissa Murphy was chosen as Vice Chair, and Karen Rose-Gillis was chosen as Secretary. The reorganization occurs each year following local elections and ensures fresh leadership and perspectives on board priorities.
Richard Nelson appointed as new Fire Chief. The Board voted unanimously to confirm the Selection Committee and Town Manager Matt Kraunelis’ appointment as Fire Chief. Nelson, currently the Assistant Fire Chief, will step into the role following the upcoming retirement of Fire Chief Greg Burns. Nelson brings decades of experience in fire service and leadership to the position.
Town Forest Rules and Regulations updated. The Board unanimously approved updates to the Town Forest bylaws that were initially approved by Town Meeting in November 2024. These revisions better define “voice control” for dogs, cap the number of off-leash dogs per person, expand provisions for managing invasive plants, and clarify use and permit requirements. The updates are aimed to improve safety, access, and environmental stewardship in this shared community space.
Select Board approves early voting for May 13 Special Election
Town Clerk Laura Gemme requested the Board approve early voting hours on Saturday, May 3, to coincide with the final day for voter registration for the May 13 Special Town Election in addition to the previously approved in-person early voting the week before the election. The Board voted in support, though Ms. Gemme noted that the Board of Registrars still needs to recommend early in-person voting at their meeting on Thursday, April 17.
Due to timing constraints - since the Select Board does not meet again before the election - members moved forward with approving the request. Ms. Gemme indicated she expects the Board of Registrars to vote similarly to how they did for the April election, which was previously approved 2-1.
Select Board approves updated Town Forest Bylaws
Jeff Lamson and Tim Kirwan of the Town Forest Committee presented the revised rules and regulations in response to concerns about off-leash dogs, safety, and appropriate land use. Key updates include:
Clarified language around “voice control” and added a limit to the number of off-leash dogs per person.
Expanded definitions and permissions regarding the treatment of invasive plant species.
Clearer use and permitting guidelines to support fair and consistent use of the Town Forest.
The next step is the installation of updated signage of the rules at about five forest entrances, funded by the Town Forest Committee’s existing budget. These signs will help communicate the rules clearly to all visitors. Committee members also plan to engage directly with forest users to promote awareness and encourage self-enforcement of the regulations.
Residents are reminded to report dog-related incidents or bites to the Animal Control Officer or Reading Police Department if necessary.
Town staff and the Select Board standing with the new Fire Chief. (l-r) Town Manager Matt Kraunelis, Select Board member Melissa Murphy, Select Board member Carlo Bacci, Select Board member Chris Haley, Fire Chief Richard Nelson, Select Board member Karen Herrick, Select Board member Karen Rose-Gillis, and Assistant Town Manager Jayne Wellman. Photo provided by Taylro Gregory.
