Cannon Falls School Board Denies Leave Request, Approves Calendar Changes, and Plans New Hire

Overview: In a recent Cannon Falls Area School Board meeting, several decisions were made concerning employee leave requests, updates to the school calendar, and staffing needs for special education. The board denied a long-term leave of absence request, approved changes to professional development scheduling, and recognized a need for additional special education staff due to increasing caseloads.

Southwick Select Board Faces Community Safety Concerns Over Group Home Incidents

Overview: The Southwick Select Board meeting centered on serious community safety concerns involving a group home, with residents urging the board to take immediate action after multiple incidents involving an individual from the facility. Additionally, issues regarding a planned parade, increased deputization for the summer, and a controversial bylaw were discussed.

Vernon Town Council Faces Budget Surplus Debate Amid Community Concerns

Overview: The recent Vernon Town Council meeting centered on discussions regarding a substantial budget surplus, with council members expressing diverging views on how to manage these funds amidst rising costs and community needs. The debate underscored the financial pressures facing the township and the potential implications for taxpayers, as well as highlighting ongoing infrastructure issues and administrative matters.

Lakeville Select Board Deliberates on Budget Shortfalls and Staffing Challenges

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Lakeville Select Board, members grappled with pressing budgetary constraints and staffing shortages that could impact the town’s administrative efficacy and ongoing projects. Discussions centered on the need for an interim planning consultant and the broader implications of unfilled positions within the town’s administration, highlighting the challenges of maintaining momentum on essential initiatives amid financial and personnel uncertainties.

Bloomington Planning Commission Advances Missing Middle Housing Ordinance Amid Public Debate

Overview: The Bloomington Planning Commission’s recent meeting centered on the Missing Middle Housing Plan, focusing on proposed ordinance amendments aimed at expanding housing options in the city. These changes, especially regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and two-family dwellings, were designed to increase housing flexibility and address barriers to development. The commission voted six to one to recommend the City Council adopt these Phase One amendments.