Dunstable Board of Selectmen Releases $25,000 in Overlay Surplus to Tackle Budget Deficit

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Dunstable Board of Selectmen decided to release $25,000 from the fiscal year 2026 overlay account to help address a $43,000 deficit in the fiscal year 2027 budget. This move is intended to ease the financial burden on taxpayers amid ongoing attempts to balance the budget without resorting to an override.

Littleton Committee Approves Key Funding for Forge Pond Management and Housing Plan Development

Overview: The Littleton Community Preservation Committee (CPC) recently convened to address significant funding requests, including approvals for the Forge Pond management plan and the development of a new community housing plan.

Hopkinton Committee Deliberates on Expanding ADU Regulations Amidst Housing Concerns

Overview: The Hopkinton Zoning Advisory Committee discussed potential amendments to the town’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) regulations during its recent meeting, focusing on increasing size limitations and clarifying the permitting process. This dialogue underscored the committee’s efforts to balance housing expansion with maintaining neighborhood character.

Townsend Select Board Approves Earth Excavation Permit with Reduced Removal Limits

Overview: The Townsend Select Board convened to discuss and approve a new special permit for an earth excavation project on Three Wheeler Road, reducing the previously approved volume of removed earth. The permit, granted to Gary Shepard, allows for the excavation of an additional 30,000 cubic yards, a substantial decrease from the original 109,000 cubic yards approved in 2020. The board’s decision, which includes a stipulation for annual progress reporting, reflects a careful consideration of site modifications and regulatory compliance.

Townsend Finance Committee Halts Software Purchase Amid Budget Concerns

Overview: During the Townsend Finance Committee meeting, members unanimously decided against recommending a software purchase, citing the inappropriate use of free cash due to budget constraints and the potential need for funds to cover unanticipated snow removal costs. The committee’s decision was driven by the absence of detailed information and a desire to explore alternative software solutions that could be more cohesive for the town’s needs.