Hopkinton School Committee Faces Budget Challenges and Debates Over Adaptive Playground

Overview: During the recent Hopkinton School Committee meeting, discussions focused on the fiscal year 2026 budget, with particular emphasis on staffing needs, budget deficits, and the proposal for an adaptive playground.

Hamilton-Wenham School Committee Tackles Budget Cuts Amid Rising Energy Costs

Overview: The Hamilton-Wenham Regional School Committee meeting on December 19, 2024, centered on pressing financial challenges, including a preliminary budget for FY 26 that anticipates an operational override and a debt exclusion for a new elementary school, as well as the implications of a significant rise in electricity rates. The committee explored strategies to alleviate financial burdens, including potential partnerships with National Grid for energy assessments and budget adjustments to secure community support for upcoming expenditures.

Falmouth Zoning Board Faces Complex Challenges in Proposed Development on Brick Hill Road

Overview: The recent Falmouth Zoning Board meeting focused on the proposed development project at Brick Hill Road, with discussions centered around environmental impacts, zoning compliance, and resident concerns. The board scrutinized the project’s potential effects on nitrogen loading in the sensitive coastal pond overlay district and the adequacy of proposed drainage and landscaping plans. Significant debate arose over the necessity of waivers and the project’s economic viability, with the board seeking more detailed financial documentation before making decisions.

Lawrence Licensing Board Approves New Sports Bar and Other Business Licenses at Final 2024 Meeting

Overview: In its final meeting of 2024, the Lawrence Licensing Board granted approval for a new sports bar and lounge to open on Newbury Street, among other licenses. The board also addressed routine business licenses and set the date for their January meeting.

Newbury Select Board Faces Community Concerns Over Construction Projects on Plum Island

Overview: At the recent Newbury Select Board meeting, discussions focused on several construction proposals on Plum Island, each sparking considerable community engagement. Notable among these were the special permit requests for modifications to existing residential properties and debates over lot reconfigurations, which highlighted concerns from neighboring residents regarding potential impacts on local views, parking, and neighborhood character.