Newbury Planning Board Tackles Zoning Amendments and Affordable Housing Initiatives

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board meeting on February 19, 2025, primarily addressed updates to zoning bylaws, with particular emphasis on recodification, compliance with state and federal regulations, and affordable housing initiatives. Discussions underscored the importance of aligning local bylaws with broader legislative frameworks to facilitate sustainable development and community growth.

Newbury Conservation Commission Deliberates on Dam Removal and Ecological Restoration Projects

Overview: The Newbury Conservation Commission convened remotely to discuss various environmental projects, with attention given to the proposed removal of a dam on Locken Road aimed at restoring fish runs. During the meeting, topics included compliance with conservation standards, flood zone regulations, and the impact of construction projects on local ecosystems. The commission also addressed concerns regarding flood zone compliance and the preservation of historical sites.

Newbury Town Faces Website Overhaul to Meet ADA Compliance by 2027

Overview: During the recent Newbury Capital Planning Committee meeting, discussions focused on two issues: the need to overhaul the town’s fragmented website to meet ADA compliance by April 2027, and the pressing demand for a new Senior Center to accommodate the Council on Aging’s growing needs. Both projects highlight the town’s challenges in balancing budgetary constraints with essential infrastructure updates.

Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board Discusses School Budget Challenges and Strategic Community Planning

Overview: The Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board meeting addressed issues related to the town’s school budget, community planning, and infrastructure projects. Key discussions centered around the necessity for strategic restructuring of the school district amid declining enrollment and rising costs, the handling of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and the implications of a proposed bond for upcoming projects.

Danvers Select Board Grapples with Airport Noise and Credit Rating Downgrade

Overview: The Danvers Select Board meeting on February 18, 2025, centered around community concerns regarding Beverly Airport’s noise and the town’s recent credit rating downgrade. The board appointed Todd Formasav to the Beverly Airport Commission amid discussions of regulatory challenges and the need for better community relations. Additionally, the town manager reported on the implications of a credit rating downgrade from AAA to AA+, emphasizing the town’s strong financial management despite the change.