Revere Human Rights Commission Plans Circle Training for Community Engagement

Overview: The Revere Human Rights Commission’s meeting on May 2nd centered on the adoption of Circle training aimed at conflict resolution and community engagement. The commission discussed the significance of the training sessions with Strong Oak, expressing anticipation for the new methods that could be learned for handling sensitive topics and fostering a more unified and inclusive community. The conversation delved into the potential of Circle practices for reconciliation and restorative justice, as well as the commission’s strategy to first undergo the training internally before introducing it to the public.

Shutesbury Personnel Board Addresses Outdated Personnel Handbook and Hiring Practices

Overview: The Shutesbury Personnel Board meeting addressed issues regarding the town’s personnel policies and hiring practices, which included discussions on updating the outdated personnel handbook, revising the hiring process for public safety departments, and conducting salary studies to ensure competitive municipal wages. The board underscored the importance of modernizing the personnel handbook, last revised 24 years ago, to reflect current standards, especially concerning sexual harassment and inclusion policies.

Westport Personnel Board Tackles New Positions and Bylaw Confusion

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Westport Personnel Board addressed several initiatives including the creation of new town positions such as a town engineer and a beach manager, discussions around the need for clarity in personnel bylaws, and salary adjustments for existing roles.

Whately Personnel Committee Discusses Critical Town Employment Policies

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Whately Personnel Committee tackled issues surrounding town employment policies, including the definition and application of “appointing authority,” the need for a comprehensive technology policy, compensation and break period regulations, and the salaries for specific positions such as the animal inspector and community development director. The committee also decided on a recommendation for a 3% cost-of-living adjustment (Cola) to the finance committee and select board.

Amherst Eyes Traffic Calming and Recycling Changes Amidst Community Debate

Overview: The Amherst Town Services and Outreach Committee recently convened to discuss several issues, with the focal point being the proposed traffic calming measures on Heatherstone Road. The meeting also covered potential neighborhood speed limit changes, road and sidewalk improvements on Belchertown Road, updates on the organics collection program, and the transition to a single stream recycling system.