Southwick Water Commission Faces Public Concerns Over Water Quality and Communication

Overview: The Southwick Water Commission meeting on November 20, 2025, highlighted considerable public dissatisfaction with water quality and communication issues. Commissioners debated the validity of these concerns. Additionally, the town’s water supply challenges and state regulations were discussed, underscoring Southwick’s efforts to balance resource management with public expectations.

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.

Narragansett Regional School Committee Tackles Capital Improvements and Community Engagement

Overview: The Narragansett Regional School Committee meeting focused on issues, including the roof project tied to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), capital improvements for school facilities, and innovative communication strategies aimed at fostering better community engagement. Discussions also covered curriculum management, staff attendance data, and strategic goals for the district’s future.

Greenfield City Council Discusses Public Engagement for Master Plan and Road Safety Measures

Overview: The recent Greenfield City Council meeting focused on enhancing public engagement for updates to the city’s master plan and addressing safety concerns on Turners Falls Road. The meeting also included discussions about committee composition, a potential noise ordinance, and a new composting program at the local high school.

South Orange-Maplewood School Board Faces Scrutiny Over Grading Policy Changes

Overview: The South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting on a recent evening was marked by discussions surrounding the implementation of a controversial grading policy. The board is facing criticism over a directive requiring Columbia High School teachers to assign a minimum grade of 50 to students scoring below this threshold. Concerns were also raised about inconsistencies in transportation services and a review of special education services.