Development News for Hanover, New Hampshire

Norwich Select Board Addresses Katuki Lawsuit and OML Complaints, Enters Executive Session Twice

The Norwich Select Board convened a special meeting to address complaints and a lawsuit filed by Chris Katugi. The board discussed proposed amendments to the agenda regarding responses to public records requests and Open Meeting Law (OML) complaints, ultimately agreeing to use the original agenda with modifications for proposed executive sessions for both items. They then moved to item three, concerning the public records request lawsuit, and debated motions related to entering executive session. This involved discussions about attorney-client privilege, litigation strategy, and the town's liability assessment. Following public comment and deliberation, the board voted to enter executive session. After returning to public session, they discussed item four, addressing proposed solutions to OML violations, and again debated entering executive session to receive confidential attorney-client communications regarding additional demands from Mr. Katuki related to curing admitted OML violations. The board voted to enter executive session for this second topic as well. Following the second executive session, the board returned to public session. Finally, the board addressed item five, considering adjustments to the town manager's job description regarding their role as a case manager for litigation, with discussions on clarifying responsibilities and communication protocols.