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Public commenters press recusal, open-space and professionalism concerns
Summary
Multiple residents urged recusal in the Middleham development review, criticized council conduct and pressed for stronger review of proposed projects and contract practices; speakers also called for preservation of open space and clearer procurement practices.
During public comment, Anthony DeSimone asked that a council member be required to recuse from consideration of the Middleham schoolhouse property because of online posts and a claimed conflict of interest. "He prejudiced himself online... He needs to recuse himself," DeSimone said. Other speakers raised legal and technical complaints about the Middleham proposal; Joe Heck asserted the plan to put 36 apartments on 2.7 acres with septic "isn't legal." Residents also criticized perceived favoritism in no-bid contracts and urged the town manager to pursue stronger procurement oversight.
Several residents urged preservation of open space and questioned rapid movement on rezonings or development within the historic district. Multiple public commenters criticized the council's decorum and preparedness; one called the meeting a "clown show" and urged elected officials to resign, while others asked for clearer financial presentations and public engagement prior to budget and project decisions.
