Southampton Select Board Approves Single Tax Rate Amid Financial Challenges

Overview: The Southampton Select Board convened to address several issues, focusing on the town’s financial structure and community events. One decision involved the adoption of a single tax rate for all property classes for fiscal year 2026, as recommended by Assessor Dave Zagorski. This decision was influenced by the town’s predominantly residential tax base, with residential properties comprising 94% of the mix, and the impracticality of a split tax rate given the minimal commercial property footprint. The board unanimously approved the single rate, acknowledging the financial strain due to insufficient new growth and rising expenses, notably a $250,000 increase in health insurance costs.

Granby Planning Board Examines Retail Shed Sales Amid Traffic and Parking Concerns

Overview: The Granby Planning Board recently convened to deliberate on several issues, most notably the proposed site plan for the retail sale of outdoor sheds on West State Street. The board’s discussions focused on traffic flow, parking, and the impact of the proposed sales on the surrounding area, which elevated the topic to the forefront of the meeting. The project involves 195 West State Street LLC and aims to incorporate retail sales of structures like sheds and saunas. With an attorney from Bacon Wilson representing the LLC, the board considered how the site plan aligns with existing zoning bylaws and the practical implications of the development.

Amherst Historical Commission Explores Industrial History and Funding Discrepancies

Overview: During the recent meeting of the Amherst Historical Commission, the focus was primarily on the exploration of the town’s rich industrial history through various Community Preservation Act (CPA) projects, alongside addressing funding discrepancies and the potential for future preservation initiatives. The commission discussed the significance of the Mill River area’s industrial past, the complexities of Amherst’s textile manufacturing origins, and the challenges surrounding project budgets and historical documentation.

Amherst Cultural Council Grapples with Grant Evaluation Challenges and Prioritization Dilemmas

Overview: The Amherst Cultural Council meeting focused on evaluating grant applications, addressing challenges in scoring methodology, and establishing priorities for funding allocation. Discussions included the need to streamline the application review process and the importance of ensuring a diverse range of funded projects.

Amherst Council Tackles Fire Safety, Housing, and Human Rights Bylaw Changes

Overview: The Amherst Town Council meeting addressed community concerns, focusing on fire safety in older buildings, the lack of affordable housing, and proposed changes to the human rights commission bylaw. The discussion was marked by community engagement and council deliberations on impactful legislative measures.