The Reading select board’s regular meeting on Tuesday, February 10 includes a discussion about a censure vote against a member, an update to a restaurant on Haven Street, and the town manager’s review, among other topics.
In addition to the standing report from town manager Matt Kraunelis and his Community Spotlight, the board will hear public comment for any items not included on the agenda.
The board will hear an ethics disclosure from Kraunelis regarding the FY2027 budget process. Since Kraunelis’ contract expires in June 2026 and his salary is not set for Fiscal Year 2027, the board must discuss his impartiality in all matters related to the budget.
The board will hold a public hearing and discussion for an Alteration of Premises application for the Post 1917 restaurant located at 136 Haven Street. The restaurant is planning to expand into the abutting space at 144 Haven Street. All interested parties are invited to attend the hearing in person or remotely via Zoom; or may submit their comments in writing or by email prior to 6:00 p.m. on February 10, 2026 to townmanager@
After an 18- month study, the Ad Hoc Community Preservation Act Study Committee will present their report, recommending the adoption of a CPA property tax surcharge. The measure would need to pass a series of town meeting approvals to be enacted.
The board will bring up a discussion about a vote that Karen Gately Herrick cast at the recent Massachusetts Municipal Association meeting regarding a fiscal partnership resolution. Reading Select Board chair Chris Haley took exception with this during the last select board meeting. Haley has moved to censure his board colleague, contending she acted without proper authorization. Gately Herrick is a member of the MMA Fiscal Policy Committee and voted in that capacity, according to communications in the select board packet.
Last up will be a discussion of the town manager’s performance review. Input from department heads praise Kraunelis for his professionalism and guidance, while select board input was mixed.
The meeting will start at 7 p.m. at Reading Town Hall. Residents may attend in person, participate via Zoom, or watch live via RCTV. The meeting agenda is available on the town’s website at readingma.gov.