by Richard J. Silvio

“What’s Happening Dracut” has learned that Bethany Loveless, Director of Dracut’s Council on Aging, has been discharged.

Noelle Kaelblein has been named the new acting Council of Aging Director, according to Assistant Town Manager Victor Garafalo. Kaelblein once served as Director of the Council, and has done work as a program director at the Andover Senior Center.

Garafalo stated that the staple Council activities—including Meals on Wheels and the Memorial Day Parade will continue to operate as normal.

Loveless, who became Director in 2014, oversaw many projects at the Council, including running Dracut’s Memorial Day parade with former Veteran’s Service Officer Jeff Hollett. Her dismissal comes as surprise to many, with citizens noting her close work with seniors and her advocacy for Dracut’s elderly population. The Council has undergone many changes under Loveless, including a complete interior renovation of the Senior Center, giving seniors a place for safe recreation.

Garafalo refused comment on the Loveless termination, as did Council on Aging Activities Director Ann Palmer, citing it was a “personnel matter.” However, sources indicate the move comes after Loveless was placed on 10-day unpaid leave for undisclosed reasons. WHD unsuccessfully reached out to Loveless for comment.

Stay with InsideLowell and “What’s Happening Dracut” for more information on this developing story