Changing of the guard in Nahant

NAHANT – Town Administrator Mark Cullinan gave his final report to the Board of Selectmen and Chairperson Lainey Titus announced she will not seek reelection at an emotional meeting Thursday.New Town Administrator Andy Bisignani and I “have been meeting regularly with staff and department heads, reviewed all major projects going on ? and met with town counsel and labor counsel,” Cullinan said in his final report after nearly two decades in the job. “At this point in time, it’s time for me to say my fare thee well.”Titus also said she would be ending her service to the town after nearly a year-and-a-half on the Board of Selectmen.”I’ve loved doing this job and really enjoyed it, but since the election, my workload has increased considerably,” Titus said. After the meeting, she said new responsibilities in her job for the Massachusetts Nurses Association required increased travel and a less-regular schedule.”If I’m going to serve as selectwoman, I want to give it 100 percent,” Titus said.Cullinan announced in June that he was retiring, effective in November, but has continued to work part-time until Bisignani begins as town administrator on Feb. 1. Titus won a special election in October 2010 to fill the remaining term of former Selectman Robert Frary, who resigned.Selectmen praised both Cullinan and Titus for their dedication to the town.”I want to say you have my sincerest thanks and I’m sure everyone in town says the same thing,” Selectman Michael Manning told Cullinan.Selectman Richard Lombard agreed. “The town owes you a debt of gratitude,” Lombard said. “You’ve done a fantastic job.”Town officials had similar praise for Titus.”You’ve done a great job,” Lombard said. “(Selectman Manning and I) haven’t argued since you’ve been here.”Manning laughed and agreed with Cullinan, who had praised Titus for bringing “the next generation” to the board.It wasn’t all goodbyes, however. Selectmen also welcomed Bisignani to his new job – although Bisignani admitted he’s already spent most of the past two weeks in Town Hall.”Andy, best wishes to you,” Lombard said. “I know you’re going to do well.”Cyrus Moulton may be reached at [email protected].