Bloomingdale Borough Secures $750,000 Grant for New Playground

Overview: At the recent Bloomingdale Borough Council meeting, a substantial grant from Green Acres was announced. The $750,000 grant, combined with approximately $500,000 from open space grants, will fund the development of a modern playground at Bo Pond. The anticipated project, slated for early spring, will feature a rubberized floor to ensure safety and accessibility for all children. This initiative comes as the existing playground reaches over 30 years in age. The beloved gazebo dedicated to a child on SRA Lane will remain a centerpiece of the park, and acknowledgments were made to those instrumental in securing the grants.

Boston City Council Explores $150 Million Fund to Revitalize Stalled Housing Projects

Overview: The Boston City Council, during its recent meeting, discussed the creation of a $150 million Boston Development Fund within the Planning Department. This initiative, spearheaded by Councilor Brian Worrell, aims to address the stagnation of development projects in the city, particularly focusing on nearly 30,000 approved but unbuilt housing units. The proposal seeks to stimulate construction activity by utilizing a portion of the city’s $512 million free cash balance to create a revolving fund, designed to boost homeownership opportunities and alleviate the burden on residential property taxes.

Franklin Zoning Board Denies Cannabis Facility Amid Public Concerns on Location

Overview: The Franklin Township Zoning Board denied a contested application for a use variance to establish a cannabis cultivation facility at a former school building on Stanton Avenue. During a lengthy meeting, the board listened to extensive public input, primarily focused on the proposed facility’s proximity to a nursery school and residential areas. Ultimately, the board concluded that the facility did not align with local zoning laws, prioritizing industrial zones for such operations.

Coon Rapids Introduces Police Wellness Dog, Approves Key Land Sale and Safety Grants

Overview: The Coon Rapids City Council meeting on October 1, 2024, saw the introduction of the new Police Wellness Dog, Gizmo, discussions on land sales, the acceptance of safety grants, and measures to address unlicensed solicitors.

Newbury Select Board Votes to Halt Alternative Assessment Proposal

Overview: In a recent joint meeting with the Finance Committee, the Newbury Select Board unanimously voted to discontinue the pursuit of an alternative assessment for the Triton Regional School District.