Concerns in Lynnfield regarding a lack of communication from Town Hall have surfaced, reflecting a growing distrust in the town’s government and frustration among residents, according to the Lynnfield Community Vision Draft Plan. 

“There needs to be a leadership change as it’s become quite clear the different boards aren’t always working for the well-being of the town,” one respondent said in the draft plan. “There has to be more honesty and transparency from leadership who are actively working to represent town residents and listening to what is being asked, such as bike paths and road paving being done.”

According to a survey taken for the draft plan, 92% of respondents prioritize a well-functioning town government, with 83% emphasizing the importance of accessible town services. Key issues highlighted include the need for clearer communication on ongoing initiatives, such as the rail trail, and changes to the town’s policies, including zoning laws and property tax rates.

“Move to a five-person Select Board like most towns our size because it inhibits decision-making,” another respondent said. “Too much authority in the hands of a few.”

Residents expressed frustration with a lack of transparency and a desire for a better understanding of town projects and financial matters. Additionally, concerns about community-wide communication infrastructure and opportunities for shared services with neighboring towns were raised, with 67% and 63% of respondents, respectively, identifying these as important topics for the town to address.

“Communication and access to town management and resources in Lynnfield appears to have frozen somewhere in the 1950s,” one respondent said. “Scheduling and contact with town management must be brought up to modern standards.”

Another respondent said that there should be limits on how long town officials are in positions of power and how many political affiliations they can hold.

“Diversifying political positions so that more younger people have the ability to shape the future of Lynnfield and have their voice heard is extremely lacking in this community and needs to change,” one respondent said.

According to the draft plan, emerging goals for the town include keeping the public informed about project timelines, exploring innovative communication techniques, expanding shared services with neighboring communities, and adopting new tools to support transparent governance. These goals aim to address the concerns raised by residents and foster improved relationships between the community and town officials.