Greater New Bedford Tech Adopts $52. 7M Budget, Rejects School Choice

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School Committee adopted a final operating and capital cost budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025 amounting to $52,721,985. The budget includes a significant transfer of $400,000 into the fiscal year 2025 Capital Renovations line. Additionally, the committee decided against adopting the school choice program due to over-subscription in the district.

Westport Planning Board Grants Special Permit for Old Harbor Road Development

Overview: The Westport Planning Board has granted a special permit for a property on Old Harbor Road. This permit will allow for a reduction in frontage requirements on a public way, in exchange for a reduction in development density, enabling the creation of one new lot. The decision was reached after careful consideration of the potential impact on infrastructure and density, with specific findings and conditions attached to the permit.

Norton Planning Board Evaluates Complex Development and Lighting Bylaw

Overview: In a recent Norton Planning Board meeting, discussions focused on a contentious development project at zero Mansfield Avenue and a citizen-led petition to amend the town’s lighting bylaw. The development project, which includes plans for apartment buildings with various unit sizes, was scrutinized regarding its compliance with affordable housing bylaws, environmental impact on wetlands, and stormwater standards. Meanwhile, the proposed lighting bylaw amendment sparked debate over residential lighting regulations and their enforceability.

Norton Finance Committee Grapples with Education Budgets and Department Funds

Overview: In the latest Norton Finance Committee meeting, attention was devoted to the issue of school funding, particularly the budgets for South Eastern Regional and Bristol County Agricultural High School. The committee also engaged in debates over resource allocation for critical town departments, including the police, fire, inspection, and communication services.

Dighton Explores Agricultural Leases and Elderly Housing Development

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Dighton Development and Industrial Commission, discussions took a forward-looking approach with notable emphasis on identifying properties for agricultural leases and potential development of land for elderly housing. The commission also delved into the integration of permitting software, support for home-based businesses, and the revitalization of the chestnut population.