Morris Town Council Meeting Discusses Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Bans and Sustainable Landscaping

Overview: In a recent Morris Town Council meeting, discussions centered around initiatives for sustainable landscaping, particularly advocating for bans on gas-powered leaf blowers and the incorporation of ecology-based gardening practices.

Freetown and Lakeville Boards Discuss Critical School Tuition Agreement, Quiet Zones, and Budget Strains

Overview: In a joint session between the Freetown and Lakeville Select Boards, the primary focus centered on a potential tuition agreement with Acushnet students attending Ponaganset Regional High School. Discussions also covered quiet zones for train crossings, fiscal budget strains, regional active shooter training, and infrastructure updates.

Longmeadow Select Board Tackles Public Health Transition and Revolving Fund Legal Hurdles

Overview: The Longmeadow Select Board addressed a variety of topics, including the appointment of a new Director of Public Health and ongoing legal challenges concerning a proposed revolving fund. The board confirmed Ryan Paxton as the new Director of Public Health, emphasizing his extensive experience and seamless transition from the previous director. Meanwhile, procedural disputes with the Department of Revenue regarding a revolving fund proposal prompted a delay in action, highlighting the need for legal clarity.

Hampden Board of Selectmen Approves Tax Work Program Amid Discussion on Senior Eligibility and Job Demands

Overview: The Hampden Board of Selectmen meeting on November 3, 2025, addressed several topics including the approval of a tax work program designed to provide tax credits for seniors in exchange for work, a discussion on the physical demands of such jobs, and updates on the conditions at the new Town Hall. The board also discussed job descriptions and budgetary allocations, including a request for a job description change for the senior center’s outreach coordinator position.

Brainerd City Council Faces Critical Decisions on Funding and Infrastructure Projects

Overview: The Brainerd City Council meeting was marked by discussions on infrastructure funding and policy decisions that could impact the community’s future projects. The council grappled with choices surrounding a significant funding swap for a pedestrian bridge project and a service line reimbursement request, while also deliberating on grant applications for trail developments. In a series of votes, the council decided to return a substantial grant, refrained from applying for another due to financial constraints, and upheld a policy requiring property owners to bear the cost of service line replacements.