Hampden Board Tackles Energy Storage, Water District Expansion

Overview: In a meeting marked by discussions on infrastructure and legislative preparations, the Hampden Board of Selectmen addressed topics including the implementation of battery energy storage systems and the expansion of the water district. The meeting also covered important administrative matters such as the upcoming annual town meeting warrant and the police chief’s contract negotiations.

Hampden Board of Selectmen Contemplates Board Expansion and Bylaw Changes

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Hampden Board of Selectmen discussed significant proposals that could reshape the town’s governance structure, including increasing the select board from three to five members, changing key positions from elected to appointed, and implementing electronic voting at town meetings. The board also addressed various community concerns ranging from liquor license management to budget reallocations and technical upgrades.

Hampden Selectmen Debate Infrastructure and Health Services Expansion

Overview: The most recent meeting of the Hampden Board of Selectmen addressed issues concerning the town’s infrastructure, health services, and environmental conservation. The meeting’s highlights included discussions on the Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, a state audit of shared services resulting in a budget increase, and the reallocation of casino funds for public projects. The Selectmen also considered the implications of recent plumbing code changes, a liquor license management change, and the project for a unisex bathroom in unoccupied buildings.

Hampden Board Greenlights National Grid Pole, Debates Expenses

Overview: At a recent meeting, the Hampden Board of Selectmen approved a pole position request by National Grid amid discussions on budgetary concerns, including a potential 21% increase in property and liability insurance and a 3.5% cost-of-living adjustment recommendation. Key topics included the underfunding of Finn’s operation, the ambulance service’s positive performance, and the water district’s budget increase due to testing costs. The board also scrutinized the Community Preservation Trust’s land purchase proposal, pondered over the funding for a new fire station design, and contemplated using ARPA funds for a water district project to provide clean water to homes.

Hampden Board Debates Cable License Renewal and Internet Services

Overview: The Hampden Board of Selectmen recently engaged in a discussion regarding the renewal of the cable license with Spectr and the associated legal and regulatory implications. With the current license agreement nearing its end, the Board considered a short-term extension as negotiations continue. Concerns about Spectr’s behavior, compliance, and corporate citizenship were at the forefront, alongside the Board’s dissatisfaction with the company’s internet service and infrastructure reinvestment in the town.