St. Paul Faces $8.4 Million Budget Deficit Amid Cyber Incident and Lawsuit Expenses

Overview: The St. Paul City Council’s Budget Committee meeting revealed financial challenges, including a projected $8.4 million deficit for 2025 due to extraordinary expenditures from a cyber incident and a lawsuit payout. Budget manager Madeline Mitchell presented these projections, highlighting the impacts of these unexpected costs on the city’s financial health. A hiring freeze is currently in place as part of efforts to mitigate the deficit, with departments generally coming in under budget except for public safety-related areas. The fire department is projected to overspend by $3.9 million due to increased overtime and material costs, while the parks department anticipates nearly $3 million overspend due to repairs from copper wire theft and storm damage. The police department’s budget is expected to be exceeded by $2.5 million, though this may adjust following budget amendments.

Middlesex School Board Expands Preschool Program and Faces Public Concerns Over Safety and Infrastructure

Overview: The recent Middlesex School Board meeting covered a range of issues, including the expansion of the district’s preschool program and public concerns regarding school safety, infrastructure, and communication protocols. The board also recognized the achievements of individuals within the school community and addressed various administrative and operational matters.

Safety Patrol Program and Drama Club Concerns Highlight South Plainfield School Board Meeting

Overview: The South Plainfield School Board meeting covered a range of topics, with focus on the Riley School safety patrol program and concerns raised by Drama Club members about their upcoming production. Other discussions included student achievements, the announcement of upcoming events, and administrative updates.

Hamilton-Wenham School Committee Tackles FY27 Budget Challenges Amid Rising Costs

Overview: The Hamilton-Wenham Regional School Committee meeting on November 19, 2025, focused on the fiscal year 2027 budget, emphasizing the challenges of rising costs in various sectors. The discussion revealed projected increases in health insurance premiums, pension costs, and staffing expenses, alongside the implications of these financial pressures on the district and town budgets.

Jackson School Board Proposes Sale of McIliff Middle School Property for $44.4 Million

Overview: During the recent Jackson School Board meeting, discussions centered around the proposed sale of the McIliff Middle School property, with the board establishing a minimum bid of $44,418,000 and setting a bid opening date for December 12, 2025. This decision comes after previous bids were rejected, and the board authorized negotiations with interested parties. Superintendent Nicole Pormilli also acknowledged student achievements and addressed concerns regarding the suspension of the common lunch period, while various committee reports highlighted ongoing district initiatives and challenges.