Chaska City Council Supports Beckman Coulter’s $50 Million Expansion with Tax Abatement

Overview: In an effort to bolster local economic development, the Chaska City Council authorized a letter of intent for tax abatement to facilitate Beckman Coulter’s $50 million expansion.

Falmouth Select Board Grants Alcohol License to Daily Brew, Discusses Airport Relocation Concerns

Overview: The Falmouth Select Board meeting on May 5, 2025, saw developments including the approval of an all-alcoholic beverage license for Daily Brew and a heated discussion about the potential relocation of Cape Cod Gateway Airport to Joint Base Cape Cod (JBCC). The meeting also addressed local environmental and public health initiatives, committee appointments, and community concerns over public safety signage and elder fraud.

Gardner Finance Committee Approves Veteran Services Agreement, Proposes Special Committee for Community Center

Overview: During the Gardner Finance Committee meeting, the proposal to authorize an intermunicipal agreement with Winchendon for veteran services was unanimously approved. The agreement would allow Gardner’s veteran services office to extend its operations to Winchendon for fiscal years 2025 through 2027, with a financial model involving a charge of $2 per person from Winchendon, amounting to approximately $20,000. This collaboration arose from Winchendon’s need following the retirement of its veteran services director and was facilitated by the town manager reaching out to Gardner due to its effective veteran services operations. The director of veteran services assured council members that Gardner’s current staffing levels could accommodate the additional workload without incurring extra costs. The agreement includes a cancellation clause to address any potential payment issues from Winchendon.

Norton Conservation Commission Stresses Need for Remote Meetings Amidst Select Board’s In-Person Policy

Overview: The Norton Conservation Commission meeting focused heavily on navigating the implications of a new policy requiring in-person meetings, as reinstated by the select board. Members expressed concerns about achieving quorums under these conditions and unanimously voted to continue virtual meetings, citing technological shortcomings and benefits of remote participation. In addition, discussions covered ongoing projects, including MBTA overlay adjustments and compliance with housing initiatives, as well as detailed reviews of proposed developments and environmental considerations.

Illegal Taxi Operations at Newark Airport Spark Discussion in City Council Meeting

Overview: In a recent Newark City Council meeting, illegal taxi operations dominated discussions, highlighting the challenges faced by local taxi drivers due to competition from out-of-state vehicles, particularly those from New York. Council members explored potential policy revisions and enforcement measures to protect the local taxi industry.