Manchester-By-The-Sea Faces Trash Collection Chaos Amid Republic Services Strike

Overview: The recent Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board meeting addressed community issues, most notably the ongoing trash collection disruptions caused by the Republic Services union strike. The strike, which began at midnight on June 30, has led to inconsistent trash pickups throughout the town, affecting streets like Touchation, Harbor, and Bridge. While some areas saw sporadic collection, others, including parts of Pine Street, experienced complete neglect of recycling services. The Select Board discussed the challenges posed by utilizing a backup crew unfamiliar with local routes, which compounded the existing issues. Residents were urged to report missed pickups for the Department of Public Works (DPW) to arrange additional collections.

District 49 School Board Debates Cell Phone Policy, Approves Charter School

Overview: During the latest District 49 School Board meeting, discussions centered on the contentious issue of student cell phone use and the approval of the Honor Charter School application. The board grappled with the implications of revising a policy on personal electronic devices and unanimously approved a new charter school, showing a commitment to educational diversity within the district.

Minneapolis City Council Explores Taxing Wealthy for New Revenue Sources

Overview: During its recent meeting, the Minneapolis City Council held an extensive discussion on potential new revenue sources, focusing on taxing the wealthiest individuals and businesses in the city. Councilmember Wonsley opposed a motion to strike items related to these proposals, highlighting the need for progressive taxation to support essential public programs. Vice President Chughtai and Councilmember Chowdhury echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the moral imperative of addressing economic disparities in the city. The council ultimately decided to move forward with gathering research on these proposed tax measures.

Norfolk Board Tackles Remote Meetings Extension, New Superintendent, and Funding Challenges

Overview: The Norfolk Board of County Commissioners addressed several notable issues during their meeting on July 9, 2025. Key highlights included the implications of an executive order extending remote meeting capabilities, the introduction of a new school superintendent, Jeremy Gray, and discussions about the financial challenges facing local programs due to uncertain funding.

Townsend Conservation Commission Reviews Solar Panel Installation Amid Wetland Concerns

Overview: During the Townsend Conservation Commission meeting on July 9, 2025, attention was given to a proposed solar panel installation by Fran and Michelle Dold on East Haynes Road, sparking a discussion regarding its environmental impact, particularly concerning its proximity to wetlands. The Dolds presented their project, which involves setting up 48 solar panels using ground screws to minimize land disturbance, with the aim of reducing both their electric bill and carbon footprint. They assured the commission that the installation would be compliant with local regulations and would avoid affecting the wetlands, highlighting that the panels would be positioned well above water level and require no substantial excavation.