Methuen School Committee Tackles Literacy and Mental Health Support

Overview: The Methuen School Committee recently addressed issues surrounding student literacy, mental health, and disparities in educational outcomes among English Learners and students with disabilities. The meeting featured detailed presentations and discussions on initiatives aimed at improving literacy rates and supporting the mental health of students amidst demographic shifts and potential state-level budget cutbacks.

Hamilton-Wenham Approves Northshore Christian School Relocation

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Hamilton-Wenham Regional School Committee, discussions led to the unanimous approval for the relocation of Northshore Christian School into Wenham, the unanimous passage of the Student Opportunity Act (SOA) for April 2024, and detailed talks on the district’s budget presentation and educational initiatives. The committee also took time to honor the achievements of winter athletes, and outlined plans for upcoming projects and school facility improvements.

Manchester-By-The-Sea MBTA Zoning Task Force Targets Zoning for Historic Preservation

Overview: The recent meeting of the Manchester-By-The-Sea MBTA Zoning Task Force centered around the development of design guidelines for the town’s MBTA zoning overlay district, focusing on preserving Manchester’s historic character while accommodating new construction and meeting state housing goals. Discussions included the establishment of a design review board, the potential impact of zoning changes on the town’s services and character, and the fine-tuning of zoning parameters to control development density.

Manchester-By-The-Sea Finance Committee Approves Capital Budget and Tax Rate Adjustment

Overview: The Manchester-By-The-Sea Finance Committee recently convened to deliberate on fiscal decisions impacting the town’s budget, taxation, and capital projects. The meeting saw the approval of a significant capital budget, the adoption of measures aimed at adjusting the tax rate, and the allocation of funds for various town projects. Notably, the committee approved a $10,349,000 capital budget, which included a discussion on the allocation of $1.4 million for water meters replacement to enhance efficiency. The committee also voted to reduce the tax rate from a proposed 2.5% to 2%, allocating a $150,000 surplus to achieve this decrease.

Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board Approves Special Permit for ADA Compliant Home Renovation

Overview: In a recent Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board meeting, the board approved a special permit and variance for an ADA-compliant home renovation project for the EPS family, designed to provide accessibility for their disabled daughter. The discussed applications included the withdrawal of a contentious variance request for a property on Old Essex Road and the granting of a special permit to the Manchester by the Sea Museum for restoration of a historic property.