Ayer Zoning Board Approves Noya Foods’ Height Variance Amid Safety Debates

Overview: In a development for Ayer’s business and community landscape, the Zoning Board of Appeals granted a variance to Noya Foods USA LLC, allowing the construction of a building to exceed the standard height restriction in the industrial zoning district. This decision came alongside discussions on potential safety impacts and community concerns regarding several variance applications, including one by Plat Builders for construction within a rear setback near MBTA operations.

Somerset Hills School Board Addresses Achievement Gaps and Facility Improvements

Overview: In a recent Somerset Hills School Board meeting, issues such as student performance, specifically addressing achievement gaps among different subgroups, and significant facility improvements took center stage. The board presented and discussed various strategies to support students who did not pass the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJ GPA), with the superintendent delving into the district’s above-average performance compared to the state. Additionally, the meeting covered plans for enhancing school facilities, including the appointment of an acting principal and assistant principal at Bedwell Elementary School, and the discussion of upgrading lighting on the OT field.

Boston Licensing Board Approves Mediterranean Flavors to Replace Crystal Restaurant Garage Room

Overview: The Boston Licensing Board recently considered a range of license applications, with the most notable topic being the transfer of a liquor license from the Crystal Restaurant Garage Room to Ken and Co Inc, doing business as Jana Grill and Bar. Attorney Mike Ross represented the applicant, proposing a new Mediterranean concept that would reduce the indoor premise by 65% and remove several existing license conditions. Surin Kiran, the owner and operator of the Janna Grill and Bar in Watertown, is expected to manage the new location. Support for the proposal was expressed by the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services and the Alon Civic Association, with the latter commending the board for its attention to the community’s concerns regarding the location’s history of violations.

Miami Beach Commission Grapples With Flooding and Emergency Response

Overview: In a recent session, the Miami Beach City Commission tackled a plethora of issues, with the foremost being the city’s response to severe flooding events. The commission’s focus was on improving readiness through emergency management enhancements, including the earlier distribution of sandbags and the opening of city garages for public use during flood warnings. The meeting also delved into various topics ranging from honoring public servants to discussing infrastructure projects aimed at bolstering the community’s resilience against natural disasters.

Southampton Planning Board Endorses ANR Plans, Re-Elects Chair

Overview: The Southampton Planning Board meeting on June 26th addressed a series of key items, including the endorsement of two Approval Not Required (ANR) submissions, the election of board officers, and discussions on electronic submission policies and upcoming public hearings. The board endorsed an ANR submission by Jane Rothchild for property adjustments on Cold Spring Road and approved another ANR related to an agricultural easement submitted by Edward Hamill on Glendale Road. Furthermore, the meeting saw Paul Damon re-elected as chair and discussions about the necessity of adhering to timely electronic submission policies for board materials.