Sunderland Select Board Approves New Town Administrator Contract and Discusses Budget Challenges

Overview: The Sunderland Select Board meeting focused on several issues, including the approval of a new Town Administrator contract, financial challenges with the upcoming budget, and the authorization of a lease for new highway equipment. The board approved Rebecca Torres as the new Town Administrator and discussed strategic financial planning for the town’s future.

Shutesbury Conservation Commission Debates Legality of Perpetual Conditions in Environmental Orders

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Shutesbury Conservation Commission, the legality and application of “Perpetual conditions” in environmental orders of conditions dominated discussions. The meeting also addressed grant opportunities for culvert projects, conservation restrictions, and field management strategies.

Shutesbury Select Board Classifies Interim Town Administrator Hiring as Emergency to Expedite Process

Overview: During the recent Shutesbury Select Board meeting, the members focused on the urgent task of hiring an interim Town Administrator. To address the impending departure of the current administrator, the Board classified the hiring process as an emergency, allowing them to bypass the standard posting duration and accelerate the recruitment timeline. This decision was made unanimously.

Whately Board of Assessors Debates Above-Ground Pool Taxation and Budget Authority

Overview: During its October 24, 2024, meeting, the Whately Board of Assessors delved into several issues, including the potential reassessment of above-ground pools and budgetary authority for staff purchases. The board also considered the necessity of public meetings before classification hearings and the role of consultants in financial decisions.

Shutesbury Lake Wyola Advisory Committee Discusses Boating Safety and Regulatory Compliance in Chief’s Absence

Overview: In a recent gathering, the Shutesbury Lake Wyola Advisory Committee focused on enhancing safety measures, compliance with boating regulations, and the challenges of enforcement, particularly in light of the police chief’s absence due to illness. The committee devoted attention to how the lake’s existing rules are communicated and adhered to by both residents and visitors.