Zoning Board Faces Unprecedented Accusations from Select Board

During a recent Sudbury select board meeting, significant tensions arose regarding the reappointment of a member to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). Lynn Simon, a resident, voiced strong criticism of the board's decision to deny John Gossels a new three-year term, citing accusations from select board member Russo that the ZBA had a history of poor decision-making and failed to adhere to the rule of law. Simon defended Gossels, who has served on the ZBA for over two decades, highlighting his contributions to the community and the absence of prior complaints about his fairness.

Simon characterized the select board's treatment of the ZBA as unprecedented and unfair, suggesting that the accusations against Gossels were unfounded and lacked due process. He argued that the ZBA had consistently consulted with town council and had not lost a court case in the past 20 years, countering Russo's claims of errors.

In a separate discussion, Brett Herr addressed concerns regarding after-school programs in Sudbury. He expressed disappointment with a memo from Town Manager Andy Sheehan, which he felt did not adequately address the growing demand for additional after-school care, particularly as the existing program faced waitlists. Herr emphasized the need for more options without compromising the current program, urging the board to facilitate additional care solutions for working families.

The meeting also included comments from Mary Weldon, who represented Sudbury Extended Day, indicating ongoing discussions about after-school programming would continue later in the evening. The board's handling of both the ZBA reappointment and after-school care reflects broader community concerns about governance and service provision in Sudbury.