Norton Select Board Approves Series of Licenses and Addresses Town Meeting Articles

Overview: During a recent meeting, the Norton Select Board approved a series of one-day liquor licenses, a common victualer license correction, and addressed concerns regarding upcoming town meeting articles. The board also gave the green light to an application for the sale of lottery tickets by a local business and supported the removal of several articles from the spring annual town meeting warrant.

Acushnet Library Faces Budget Uncertainties and Operational Challenges

Overview: The Acushnet Public Library Board of Trustees recently discussed issues regarding budgetary concerns, specifically the potential removal of the energy line from the budget and the implications of grouping energy usage with other town buildings. Operational challenges such as the departure of the children’s librarian and the replacement of the library’s septic pipes were also addressed. These discussions revealed a library in the midst of transition, grappling with infrastructural updates and staffing changes, while also exploring new technological additions and safety assessments.

Acushnet Commission Deliberates Encroachment on Conservation Land

Overview: The Acushnet Conservation Commission’s recent meeting yielded notable decisions and discussions regarding local land use and environmental concerns. One notable issue addressed was the encroachment on a 58-acre parcel of conservation land owned by Buzzard’s Bay Coalition, involving a small barn built on the property without proper authorization. The commission considered a proposal for a limited, non-transferable license to resolve the issue, allowing the barn to stay for the current landowner’s lifetime or until the property changes hands.

Westport Zoning Board Deliberates on Restaurant Expansion

Overview: In a recent session, the Westport Zoning Board extensively reviewed a series of applications and issues with significant neighborhood impact, including the expansion of the Bayside Restaurant’s outdoor seating area and the conversion of a single-family home into a detached accessory apartment. The meeting was marked by discussions on the implications of these changes for local residents, with a focus on the restaurant’s request to expand amidst concerns over parking, safety, and compliance with existing regulations.

Greater New Bedford Tech Eyes Budget Increase and Program Expansion

Overview: In a meeting that tackled significant fiscal plans and celebrated student achievements, the Greater New Bedford Regional Technical School Committee laid out a detailed budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year with a notable $2.6 million increase from the previous year. The proposed budget, which includes investments in instructional materials, technology upgrades, and facility costs, also plans for an expansion of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, and the addition of a third assistant principal’s position.