The Lynnfield Board of Selectmen did just that on November 3, 2003 by a vote of 3 to 0 before a capacity crowd of retired teachers, who had previously voted unanimously to remain in the state program. In 1972, the Selectmen voted to accept G.L. Ch. 32B Section 11E, which allows retired municipal teachers to participate in the state insurance program.

This past August, Town Manager Bill Gustus recommended to the Board of Selectmen, that Lynnfield retired teachers and their survivors relinquish their present health coverage under the state program administered by Unicare. They would be switched to Blue Cross - Blue Shield Indemnity (VIP 2000) or Medex 3, which presently cover all other town retirees and employees and is purchased through Mass. Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA). Currently town retirees are also offered HMO Blue and Blue Care Elect Preferred (PPO).

Gustus claims that the town will save money and the coverage was about the same. The retired teachers vigorously disagreed. Their position has been that they have made a significant contribution to the town, over many years, and it is only fair that they be allowed to select the coverage that best suits their needs, in their twilight years. Because of the outpouring of opposition in August, the Selectmen tabled the issue then until the fateful November vote.