Dighton Board of Assessors Reorganizes Leadership, Approves Abatements

Overview: During the recent Dighton Board of Assessors meeting, decisions included the reorganization of the board’s leadership and the approval of several abatements. The board unanimously appointed William Moore as the new chairman, while Nancy Goulart continued in her role as clerk. The meeting also saw the approval of motor vehicle, real estate, and CPA abatements for 2026 and previous years.

Littleton Approves Utility Earth Removal and Appoints Interim Police Chief

Overview: During the Littleton Board of Selectmen meeting on April 21, 2026, the board approved a earth removal project for utility construction and appointed Deputy Chief Jeffrey Patterson as the interim police chief. The earth removal permit, essential for the New England Power Company’s transmission line improvement project, involves removing approximately 26,000 cubic yards of material. This project aims to enhance electrical service reliability across multiple towns, though Littleton is the only town requiring a special permit for the earth removal due to its bylaws.

Amherst Finance Committee Navigates Jones Library Funding and Regional School Debt Authorization

Overview: The Amherst Finance Committee meeting on April 21st primarily dealt with discussions on the Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding for the Jones Library project and a financial order related to Amherst Pelum Regional School’s borrowing authorization of $497,000. Members deliberated on these central issues alongside other financial updates and procedural matters.

Chatham Historical Commission Navigates Complex Preservation Restrictions and Property Alterations

Overview: The Chatham Historical Commission’s recent meeting tackled issues including the ongoing challenge of preservation restrictions on historic properties and the withdrawal of an application for alterations to a historic home in a national register district.

Newbury Open Space Committee Discusses Historic District Proposal and Action Plan Development

Overview: During the Newbury Open Space Committee meeting, attention was given to the proposal to designate the lower green as a historic district and the development of an action plan for open space and recreation. The historic district proposal, spearheaded by a committee formed by the select board, aims to preserve the area’s historical and aesthetic character amid recent development pressures. A report on the area’s history, prepared over four years with public input and endorsed by several local organizations, is set to be presented at the upcoming Newbury Town meeting for a vote requiring a two-thirds majority. Concurrently, the committee is working on an action plan to update the town’s open space and recreation strategy, emphasizing the need for community input and collaboration with local entities.