Chatham Board Reviews Housing Project and Parade Route Amid Budget Deliberations

Overview: The Chatham Select Board meeting held on February 10th, 2026, was marked by discussions on the proposed Stepping Stones Road housing development project and the Independence Day parade route. The board also delved into the town’s fiscal year 2027 budget, addressing department funding, software upgrades, and other financial matters.

Greenfield City Council Committee Revisits Defeated Zoning Amendment for Accessory Dwelling Units

Overview: The Greenfield City Council’s Economic Development Committee held a discussion on February 10, 2026, to revisit a previously defeated zoning amendment concerning accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The committee debated whether to bring the amendment back for a full council vote, following legal advice to suspend rules that would typically prevent reconsideration within nine months.

Southwick Planning Board Discusses New Dog Park and Open Space Initiatives

Overview: The Southwick Planning Board recently convened to discuss several community projects, notably a proposed dog park and open space management plans.

Kingston Council on Aging Discusses New Farmers Market and Community Engagement Initiatives

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Kingston Council on Aging Advisory Board explored options for replacing the current “bag and go” food distribution program with a new farmers market, a move anticipated to enhance community interactions and provide better access to fresh produce for local residents. Alongside this development, the board addressed several initiatives aimed at improving senior services and discussed methods to bolster community participation.

Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee: Vandalism at Fire Station Under Renovation Results in $200,000 Loss

Overview: During a recent Ayer-Shirley Regional School Committee meeting, attention was drawn to a troubling incident of vandalism at a fire station building undergoing renovation. The speaker recounted that a group, operating from a white van and mistaken for authorized personnel, inflicted extensive damage over three weeks in August. The vandals removed all copper wiring and flashing, including a copper dome, resulting in an estimated $200,000 loss. This theft left the building exposed to the elements for four months, causing further damage. The police are investigating, but the individuals responsible remain unidentified.