Southampton Planning Board Approves Resubmitted Stormwater Management Permit for Red Barn Storage

Overview: The Southampton Planning Board convened on November 19th to review a resubmission for a stormwater management permit for Red Barn Storage on College Highway. The permit, originally approved in December 2022, expired, necessitating a reapplication. The board approved the resubmitted application.

Amherst Town Council Tackles Accessibility Challenges and Supports Human Rights in Sudan

Overview: The Amherst Town Council meeting on November 18 focused heavily on accessibility issues within the town, including concerns about parking, sidewalk conditions, and the layout of town infrastructure. Additionally, the council discussed a resolution in support of human rights in Sudan, prompted by recent events and local connections to the crisis.

Granby School Committee Approves Lacrosse Co-op Amid Budget Challenges and Academic Performance Gains

Overview: The Granby School Committee meeting on November 18th was marked by the approval of a collaborative agreement with South Hadley for the boys lacrosse team, discussions on the district’s improved MCCAST results, and concerns about community engagement in budget planning. The committee also addressed logistical challenges in sports participation and the need for strategic communication to foster community involvement in the budgeting process.

Easthampton School Committee Backs Legislative Push for Enhanced Public School Funding

Overview: The Easthampton School Committee meeting covered various topics, including a discussion on supporting legislative bills aimed at improving funding for public schools.

Hatfield School Committee Tackles Funding Challenges Amid Budget Constraints

Overview: The Hatfield School Committee meeting, led by Chair Christy Boudreau and attended by committee members, addressed issues involving the district’s budget, ongoing educational initiatives, and community engagement. A major point of concern was the financial shortfall stemming from reduced school choice reimbursements and rising special education costs, leading to an anticipated budget cut of approximately $150,000 for the upcoming fiscal year. This financial strain is compounded by a miscalculation in the town’s budget, necessitating a special town meeting to reconcile these discrepancies.