Blandford Select Board Tackles Solar Project Conditions and Landscaping Plans

Overview: During a recent meeting, the Blandford Select Board took steps toward the approval and regulation of a proposed large-scale solar project on Chester Road. The board focused on ensuring compliance with local zoning bylaws, refining landscaping plans, and setting terms for the project’s decommissioning.

Oakdale City Council Approves Tax Increment Financing District Amendments to Boost Development

Overview: At the recent Oakdale City Council meeting, the council approved amendments to the spending plans of two Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts, allowing for the extension of tax revenues to be used for development projects until 2027. This decision aims to facilitate projects that would not be possible without the TIF revenues, following legislative changes in 2025. The council held a public hearing to discuss these amendments, and no public comments were made. The amendments will enable the city to allocate tax increment revenues to support eligible project costs, promoting local development efforts.

Hatfield Select Board Discusses Special Town Meeting and Modernization of Bylaws

Overview: The Hatfield Select Board meeting focused on preparations for the upcoming special town meeting and the modernization of the town’s bylaws. Key discussions included budget reallocations to address a deficit, the need for bylaw reformatting, and the potential benefits of the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE) program.

Southampton Select Board Approves Single Tax Rate Amid Financial Challenges

Overview: The Southampton Select Board convened to address several issues, focusing on the town’s financial structure and community events. One decision involved the adoption of a single tax rate for all property classes for fiscal year 2026, as recommended by Assessor Dave Zagorski. This decision was influenced by the town’s predominantly residential tax base, with residential properties comprising 94% of the mix, and the impracticality of a split tax rate given the minimal commercial property footprint. The board unanimously approved the single rate, acknowledging the financial strain due to insufficient new growth and rising expenses, notably a $250,000 increase in health insurance costs.

Chatham Select Board Approves New Seasonal Alcohol License and Discusses Key Infrastructure Projects

Overview: At the recent Chatham Select Board meeting, significant approvals and discussions took place, including the unanimous approval of a new seasonal all-alcoholic beverages license for Diana’s Kitchen and Bar LLC and an in-depth review of key infrastructure projects, such as the Eldridge Public Library site master plan and the need for dredging in local harbors. The board also deliberated on various community issues, from environmental restoration to housing initiatives and municipal contract renewals.