Newbury Debates Multifamily Housing Overlay District

Overview: In a recent Newbury Planning Board meeting, the most pressing topic was the multifaceted discussion surrounding the proposed MBTA communities multifamily overlay district aimed at allowing multifamily housing as of right in certain areas of the town. The overlay district, a response to the MBTA communities act, triggered a detailed public hearing where community members voiced their opinions, raising both support and concerns regarding the potential impact on the town’s character and development.

Methuen School Committee Selects New Member Amid Charter Review Talks

Overview: The Methuen School Committee convened on March 20th, 2024, to address the selection of a new acting school committee member and discussions surrounding the nomination process and charter language. The assembly led to the nomination of three candidates to replace Louann Santos, with Mary Beth Donovan Grassy and Frank Cillo providing insight into their qualifications and vision for the school district. In-depth deliberations were also held regarding challenges in budget negotiations, the return of media centers, and the implementation of disciplinary laws in Massachusetts, alongside the proposition of a charter commission to revise nomination procedures.

Newbury Conservation Commission Debates Environmental Impacts and Safety

Overview: During a recent Newbury Conservation Commission meeting, discussions revolved around various environmental projects and their potential impacts, public safety concerns related to a parking space variance request, and the need for detailed project information. Notably, the commission failed to approve a request for a variance to exceed the allowed size of parking spaces on 33rd Street but approved an alternative plan without the approach apron.

Lawrence Zoning Board Grapples with Parking Meter Issues and Health Department Underfunding

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Lawrence Zoning Board, concerns over parking meters and the underfunding of the city’s health department took center stage. The council’s discussion on parking meters revealed frustrations among council members regarding the high incidence of tickets being issued, particularly in residential areas, and the operation of the meters, including a lack of grace period. The issue was compounded by complaints from residents and business owners about the impact of parking enforcement on their daily activities. Further, the Health Department’s underfunding was addressed, with a call for increased budgeting to hire qualified staff essential for tackling public health challenges in Lawrence.

Lawrence City Council Tackles Health Department and Parking Woes

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Lawrence City Council addressed issues pertaining to the city’s health department’s compliance with grants and ongoing parking enforcement challenges. These topics, among others, took precedence over the meeting’s discussions.