Amherst Finance Committee Faces Education Budget Concerns Amid Rising Costs

Overview: The Amherst Finance Committee recently grappled with budgetary concerns during their meeting, with a primary focus on the escalating costs of education and their impact on local schools. Public comments highlighted the need for increased funding to support essential services and equitable education for all students, while committee discussions centered on revenue projections, budget allocations, and the challenges posed by the regional agreement.

Southwick Explores Multi-Million Dollar Municipal Fiber Network Amid Equipment Upgrades

Overview: The Southwick Capital Expenditures Committee meeting on March 3rd focused on several topics, including a proposed municipal fiber network requiring $15 million to $16 million in funding, the replacement of playground equipment at Wall-E Park, and the acquisition of new vehicles and machinery for town operations. The committee members evaluated potential funding sources and practical considerations for these projects.

Marlborough Finance Committee Addresses Cable Funding Concerns Amid Subscriber Decline

Overview: The Marlborough Finance Committee’s recent meeting centered on the challenges of sustaining public access cable funding amid a significant decline in cable subscriptions. The meeting also tackled a proposal to amend municipal aggregation orders to stabilize and predict electricity rates for residents, reflecting current market conditions.

Norton Faces Critical Decision on Elm Street Sewer Project Amid Financial Concerns

Overview: The Norton Finance Committee meeting on March 3rd focused heavily on the financial implications of a proposed sewer project on Elm Street, which could have an impact on local taxpayers. The committee debated whether to approve borrowing up to $8 million for the project, partially funded by a $3.5 million grant. Concerns were raised regarding the project’s cost to residents and whether the benefits justified the financial burden. The project is important for future development but requires town meeting approval to proceed.

Halifax Finance Committee Proposes Hiring New Firefighters to Combat Overtime Costs

Overview: The Halifax Finance Committee meeting on March 3, 2025, focused on pressing budgetary challenges, with attention given to the fire department’s mounting overtime costs. The discussion revealed a strategic proposal to hire two additional full-time firefighters as a means to alleviate the financial strain from excessive overtime driven by Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) absences and increasing emergency service runs.