The Andover Select Board confronted deep divisions after residents Janet Moore and Donna Crisp Duclos demanded accountability for a board member's conduct at the July 2 meeting. Town Administrator Don Sieburg called the fallout incredibly stressful and received paid leave, yet the Board voted 3-1 with one abstention to table any formal reprimand. No immediate restrictions were placed on town property access while the group awaits Town Counsel guidance.
The Andover Conservation Commission discussed unlisted plans for greater town ownership of the Fenvale property, including new trails and a kayak launch, during its July 8 session. At the same time the Commission skipped its posted items on the Wetland Ordinance, the NRI/Conservation Plan, and Chaffee Beach sand replenishment. Residents had no chance to prepare comments on either the surprise topic or the omitted priorities.
The Select Board’s next moves will depend on the pending Town Counsel opinion, leaving staff safety concerns unresolved for now. Residents should also watch future Conservation Commission agendas to ensure posted items receive proper attention rather than being displaced by off-agenda land discussions.