Select Board recap: November 4, 2025

Nov 10

(6-8 minute read)

For residents looking to stay up to date on key town matters, this recap highlights major takeaways from the Select Board meeting held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

Watch the full meeting here on RCTV’s Youtube page.

Review the full Select Board packet.

Key takeaways

FY26 tax rate set with a 1.14 split classification
The Board voted to increase the tax split to 1.14, aiming to balance affordability for residents with the commercial tax burden. Select Board members Carlo Bacci and Chris Haley recused themselves due to their ownership of commercial property. The decision reflects rising residential costs and the Board’s commitment to phased, responsible adjustments.
Next steps for the Pleasant Street Center and planning for the post-ReCAL era
Assistant Town Manager Jayne Wellman provided an update on planning for the Pleasant Street Center’s future, once the Reading Center for Active Living (ReCAL) opens. A needs assessment process will include department input, public engagement, and a future RFP to explore potential uses for the space.
Board to send letter opposing the MBTA Turnback Track plan as proposed.
The Board voted to send a letter to the MBTA urging reconsideration of the current Turnback Track plan, citing environmental, neighborhood, and emergency response concerns. The Board emphasized support for improved commuter rail service, but requested re-evaluation of location and process.

FY26 tax classification [0:23:03]

The Board discussed the annual tax classification and voted to set the FY26 Minimum Residential Factor at 1.14, resulting in a residential tax rate of $10.97 and a commercial rate of $12.56.

Recusals: Members Carlo Bacci and Chris Haley recused due to commercial property ownership. Both participated in the public hearing as residents before leaving for the Board discussion and vote.
Board discussions:
- Karen Herrick suggested a shift to 1.2 - 1.21 to ease residential burdens, noting that Reading’s commercial rate remains among the lowest among neighboring communities.
- Karen Rose-Gillis supported a phased approach with small annual increases, recommended 1.15.
- Melissa Murphy expressed concern for local businesses, favoring no shift or a smaller shift of 1.11 - 1.13 to maintain stability.
The Board voted 3-0 (Herrick, Rose-Gillis, Murphy) not to adopt the Open Space, Residential, or Small Commercial exemptions.
Final vote: 3-0 to set a 1.14 split tax rate.

Future of the Pleasant Street Center [1:54:13]

Town Manager Matt Kraunelis referenced a memo outlining possible next steps for the Pleasant Street Center once the new ReCAL facility opens. Assistant Town Manager Jayne Wellman detailed the plan to conduct a Needs Assessment involving:

Input from department heads
A community survey
Opportunities for public comment at future meetings

Wellman advised against selling the building, a view shared by Chris Haley and Karen Herrick, who noted disappointment with its low appraisal. The Town plans to retain flexibility in how the building may be leased or repurposed.

Change to brunch hours [2:14:06]

Currently, Town policy allows alcohol service beginning at 11 am on Saturdays and 12 pm on Sundays. However, state law permits service starting at 10 am on both days.

To align with state law, Town Meeting must first adopt the 2010 ABA state statute. Once approved, the Select Board can revise its local policy. Town Manager Matt Kraunelis will prepare a Warrant Article for the April 2026 Town Meeting to make this change.

Select Board letter to MBTA [2:25:27]

The Select Board voted unanimously to send a letter to Massachusetts Secretary of Transportation Phillip Eng, opposing the Turnback Track project in its current proposed location. The Board reaffirmed support for improved commuter rail service and more frequent trains, but expressed serious concerns about:

Impacts on nearby residential neighborhoods
Environmental harm to the Maillet, Morgan, and Sommes wetland restoration project
Increased gate closures and emergency response delays
Noise and emissions from diesel engines

The letter requested that the MBTA:

Withdraw the current proposal
Revisit alternative locations
Re-engaging collaborative with Reading’s residents and delegation

Town Manager Matt Kraunelis noted that the Executive Director of the MBTA Advisory Board will visit Reading soon and that Reading plays a critical role in achieving 30-minute service to Boston.

Members of the Reading Turnback Committee voiced appreciation for the Select Board’s leadership, suggesting small edits to the letter’s language to preserve flexibility in evaluating alternate sites. The final version was approved 5-0 and can be found on page 132 of the packet.