Freetown Board Awards Contracts, Tackles Fire Department and Town Budget Challenges

Overview: In a meeting held on April 11, 2025, the Freetown Board of Selectmen focused on awarding key contracts, addressing operational and budgetary challenges within the fire department, and debating a variety of town budget proposals. Notably, the board awarded contracts for IT support services and ambulance billing, discussed the financial sustainability of the fire department, and reviewed numerous budget allocations for the upcoming fiscal year.

Gardner School Committee Faces Challenges in FY26 Budget with Rising Enrollment and Costs

Overview: The Gardner School Committee meeting focused on the challenges of the fiscal year 2026 budget, highlighting an increase in student enrollment and rising costs, including a stark escalation in out-of-district expenses and the financial implications of online schooling. The budget discussion emphasized the necessity for increased local contributions and highlighted the complexities of meeting the district’s educational needs.

Sunderland Select Board Extends Police Chief’s Contract with New Residency Requirement and Salary Increase

Overview: The Sunderland Select Board meeting on April 14, 2025, focused on several topics, including the approval of a new contract for the police chief, the allocation of funds for capital projects, and budgetary deliberations for the upcoming fiscal year. The board also addressed the hiring of new personnel and amendments to existing contracts, all of which were unanimously approved.

Indianapolis Council Moves to Honor Pastor Frank Alexander with Memorial Street Name

Overview: The Indianapolis City-County Council’s Metropolitan and Economic Development Committee advanced several proposals, notably endorsing the designation of a section of 25th Street as Pastor Frank Alexander Memorial Way.

Reading Select Board Appoints Chris Haley as New Chair Amid Concerns Over Pickleball Project Costs

Overview: In a decision, the Reading Select Board appointed Chris Haley as the new chair following a tight vote of 3 to 2.