Beaver Dam Plans and Building Concerns Dominate Southwick Lake Meeting

Overview: The Southwick Lake Management Committee meeting highlighted concerns related to beaver dam management, unauthorized construction in flood-prone areas, and the complexities of securing funding for water quality improvement projects. Members stressed the necessity of third-party oversight for lake-related projects, the importance of compliance with stormwater regulations, and the potential for implementing community-driven solutions for environmental challenges.

Amherst Town Council Explores Pickleball Courts Amid Sound Concerns and Reviews Recreational Proposals

Overview: During the recent Amherst Town Council meeting, council members and participants focused on the proposed development of pickleball courts and the renovation of the War Memorial Pool bathhouse.

Clay County School Board Faces Tension Over Teacher Compensation and Charter School Funding

Overview: The Clay County School Board meeting saw discussions around teacher compensation, budget transparency, and the impact of charter schools on district resources. Educators and parents voiced dissatisfaction with the board’s recent decisions on teacher raises, alleging a lack of prioritization of educators in the district’s financial planning. Additionally, concerns were raised about the implications of charter schools on public funding and resources.

Blackstone-Millville School Committee Advances Superintendent Search Amid Budget and Policy Deliberations

Overview: The Blackstone-Millville Regional School Committee meeting on December 11, 2025, focused on progress in the superintendent search, with a motion to negotiate with Jill Pelarani for the permanent superintendent position passing, despite some opposition. Additionally, discussions on the district’s fiscal planning, policy amendments, and community engagement strategies highlighted the committee’s agenda.

Marlborough City Council Debates Outdoor Storage Permits and City Charter Amendments

Overview: The Marlborough City Council meeting saw a detailed examination of two primary issues: the provisions for outdoor storage permits and proposed amendments to the city charter concerning the filling of vacancies in the council and mayoral positions. The discussion on outdoor storage permits focused on an application by JC Residential and Light Commercial LLC, while the charter amendments centered on the process of filling council and mayoral vacancies.