Understanding the Role of the Select Board (S03, 04)

Understanding the Role of the Select Board (S03, 04)

From Orleans: Behind the Scenes by Town of Orleans with Mia Baumgarten and Amanda Converse as your hosts.

March 19, 2026 · 25 min

About this episode

This episode explores the role of the Select Board in Orleans' town government through an interview with Chair Kevin Galligan.

What does the Select Board do - and how does it help guide the direction of the Town? In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, we sit down with Select Board Chair Kevin Galligan to take a closer look at the role of the Select Board and how it fits into Orleans’ town government. The conversation begins with what draws someone to serve in this capacity, before moving into the fundamentals - how the Select Board is structured, what responsibilities it holds, and how it works alongside the Town Manager to set priorities and make decisions. We also explore how issues come before the board, the role of public input, and what serving in this position looks like beyond what residents see at meetings. Whether you’re following local issues, preparing for Town Meeting, or simply curious about how decisions get made, this episode offers a clear and helpful overview of one of the Town’s key leadership bodies.

People in this episode

Hosts: Mia Baumgarten, Amanda Converse

Guest: Kevin Galligan

Topics covered

  • Select Board
  • town government
  • local issues
  • public input
  • leadership

Keywords

  • Select Board
  • town government
  • Kevin Galligan
  • public input
  • local issues

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Select Board, Town Manager

Places: Orleans

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