Shutesbury Residents Demand Action on Road Safety Amidst Town Governance Discussions

Overview: In a recent Shutesbury Select Board meeting, residents expressed urgent concerns over road safety, prompting discussions on local infrastructure management. The board also addressed several administrative matters, including resignations, appointments, and the approval of Community Preservation Act grant agreements.

Watchung Hills School Board Debates Transgender Policy Amidst Community Concerns

Overview: In a recent Watchung Hills School Board meeting, the ongoing debate over Policy 5756, which addresses the treatment of transgender students, dominated the discussion. The board grappled with whether to maintain, amend, or abolish the policy amidst concerns about student safety, parental notification, and compliance with state and federal laws. Public comments underscored the community’s vested interest in the board’s decision, stressing the importance of safeguarding the rights and privacy of LGBTQ+ students.

Townsend Select Board Faces Ethics Debate and Approves New Digital Equity Plan

Overview: The Townsend Select Board’s recent meeting was marked by a debate over an ethics exemption request, the approval of a digital equity plan, and discussions on various town appointments and services. The board grappled with ethical concerns regarding a potential conflict of interest for Jessica Bailey, a member of the Board of Water Commissioners, who sought an exemption to serve while employed by the water department. Ultimately, the board denied the exemption request, opting instead to seek further guidance from town counsel.

Ocean School Board Considers 7% Fee Hike for Facility Rentals Amidst Concerns

Overview: The Ocean County School Board meeting covered a range of issues, with discussions centering on potential fee increases for facility rentals, addressing financial accountability, and examining necessary upgrades following flood damage at the high school. The board also explored the classification of organizations for rental fees, legal expenditures, and the challenges of managing school operations within a committee structure.

Local Flag Debate and Conservation Appointments Dominate Lunenburg Select Board Meeting

Overview: The Lunenburg Select Board faced discussions on the symbolic use of public flags and the strategic composition of its Conservation Commission and Council on Aging. Public comments and board decisions underscored diverse community perspectives on representation and environmental stewardship.