East Longmeadow Council Debates Center Town District Bylaw Amidst Financial and Infrastructure Discussions

Overview: The East Longmeadow Town Council meeting on December 9, 2025, focused heavily on the proposed center town district bylaw, highlighting divides among council members over the approach to housing and infrastructure improvements. Additionally, the council addressed financial appropriations, licensing renewals, and recognized the contributions of retiring employees and town officials.

Hampden Board of Selectmen and Board of Health Address Infrastructure, School Repairs, and Traffic Safety

Overview: The recent meeting of the Hampden Board of Selectmen and Board of Health focused on community concerns, including a infrastructure upgrade by National Grid, pressing repair needs at Wilbraham Middle School, and heightened traffic safety issues. These discussions were complemented by routine matters such as license renewals and administrative updates.

Blandford Select Board Navigates Tax Rate Challenges and Infrastructure Concerns

Overview: The Blandford Select Board meeting was dominated by discussions on tax rates for fiscal year 2026, infrastructure concerns, including roof repairs and the management of local wildlife issues, and the acceptance of a significant ADA grant. These topics were explored with an eye on their implications for the town’s future.

Southwick Council on Aging Implements Cost-Saving Digital Newsletter Distribution

Overview: The Southwick Council on Aging discussed various initiatives during the recent meeting, focusing on improving communication and community engagement while managing costs. The council is transitioning from physical mail to digital distribution for its newsletters. This change is expected to result in more efficient and timely communication with the council’s audience.

Longmeadow School Committee Reviews Middle School Librarian Arrest, Budget Challenges, and Contract Extensions

Overview: The Longmeadow School Committee meeting on December 2, 2025, tackled issues, including the aftermath of a middle school librarian’s arrest, fiscal year 2027 budget challenges with a projected $1.2 million deficit, and the approval of an extended contract for the unit F staff, which includes new health, safety, and parental leave provisions.