Ayer Select Board Commends Police for Missing Child Rescue and Addresses Hospital Closure Impact

Overview: At the recent Ayer Select Board meeting, the police department’s commendable response to a missing child incident took center stage, alongside discussions on the impacts of the Nashoba Valley Medical Center’s closure on local emergency services. The board highlighted the police department’s swift action in locating and safely returning a missing child, while also addressing broader concerns about healthcare access following the hospital’s shutdown.

Shutesbury Finance Committee Grapples with School Consolidation Amid Budget Challenges

Overview: During the recent Shutesbury Finance Committee meeting, a major focus was the proposed consolidation of school facilities, a plan that has sparked significant concern over its feasibility, potential community pushback, and financial implications. The committee discussed the superintendent’s proposal to consolidate middle and high school facilities as part of a strategy to address a looming $2.7 million deficit. This proposal has been met with skepticism regarding the timeline, with implementation expected by the 2025-2026 school year. Questions were raised about the practicality of achieving the proposed changes within the next 11 months, with the urgency underscored by one participant’s remark, “I can’t even imagine what it’s going to be like if we can’t get these cost savings.”

Bradford County Council Approves New Overdose Response Team and Medical Device Initiatives

Overview: During the recent Bradford County Council meeting, the council approved the formation of a Bradford County Overdose Response Team and the integration of new medical devices for emergency services. The meeting also covered topics including community health initiatives, budget planning, storm response efforts, and economic development.

Hampden Board Debates Zoning Amendment Amid Concerns About Compliance and Timing

Overview: The Hampden Board of Selectmen’s recent meeting focused on several issues, including an discussion over a zoning amendment proposal, the approval of an updated Inter-Municipal Agreement, and logistical preparations for upcoming town events.

Experienced Finance Leader Appointed as Interim Director for Reading Schools

Overview: In a recent virtual meeting, the Reading Select Board voted unanimously to appoint Phil Littlehale as the Interim Director of Finance and Operations for the school district. Littlehale brings extensive experience as a Chief Financial Officer in Massachusetts public schools and aims to streamline the district’s budget process.