Manchester-By-The-Sea Finance Committee Tackles Rising Legal Fees and Launch Service Viability

Overview: The recent Finance Committee meeting in Manchester-By-The-Sea focused heavily on the town’s financial challenges, particularly the escalating legal fees across various departments and the sustainability of the town’s launch service. The committee explored multiple facets of the fiscal year 2026 Q1 report, expressing concerns over increasing legal costs, the viability of harbor operations, and significant capital requests.

Hamilton-Wenham School District Faces Budget Challenges, Considers Bond Issuance for Key Projects

Overview: The Hamilton-Wenham Regional School Committee meeting on November 20, 2025, focused heavily on financial planning and budgetary challenges for the school district, including a significant proposed budget increase and the approval of a bond issuance for crucial district projects. The committee addressed a range of fiscal topics, from the issuance of bonds to cover the Cutler feasibility study and athletic field project, to deliberations on managing a substantial budget increase without exceeding taxpayer limits.

Lonsdale City Council Advances Tax Abatement for 58-Unit Apartment Complex

Overview: The Lonsdale City Council meeting focused on a proposed tax abatement for a new 58-unit market-rate apartment complex on Ash Street Northeast. This development, intended to alleviate some housing pressures in the city, requires financial assistance to proceed. The council discussed the nuances of the tax abatement, emphasizing its potential benefits for the city’s tax base and housing landscape.

Berkeley Heights School Board Debates $50 Million School Infrastructure Referendum

Overview: The Berkeley Heights School Board meeting focused on a critical proposal for a $50 million referendum aimed at financing significant improvements to the district’s school facilities. The proposed referendum, structured as a two-part question, includes a range of projects intended to modernize educational spaces, improve safety, and address long-standing infrastructure issues, all while considering the financial impact on the community.

DeFuniak Springs Community Redevelopment Agency Explores Debt Options Amid Project Funding Discussions

Overview: The DeFuniak Springs Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting was dominated by discussions regarding debt issuance for future projects, with a preference for a proposal from Truist Bank due to its favorable terms. The meeting also covered updates on various initiatives, including the Lake Amphitheater concept design and adjustments to an income-based roofing grant. The meeting concluded with the approval of an employment contract for the new executive director, highlighting changes in leadership.