Shutesbury Conservation Commission Tackles Power Line Projects and Conservation Efforts

Overview: The Shutesbury Conservation Commission convened on November 13, 2025, to address pressing environmental concerns, including the progression of major transmission line projects by Eversource and National Grid, and the finalization of a conservation restriction.

Sparta Town Council Meeting Sparks Debate Over Land Donations and Smoke Shop Regulations

Overview: The recent Sparta Town Council meeting on November 13, 2025, centered around the contentious issues of land donations to the state under the Green Acres program and proposed regulations on smoke shops and cannabis-related businesses. Discussions also included the town’s budgetary concerns, healthcare costs, and community engagement in future municipal projects.

Montclair Town Historical Preservation Commission Grants Demolition Waiver for Mid-Century Drive-Thru Bank Building.

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Montclair Town Historical Preservation Commission, a waiver was granted to demolish a mid-century drive-thru bank building located on Valley Road. The decision to approve the waiver was reached after a discussion about the building’s historical significance and its fit within the district’s architectural landscape. The commission’s approval allows the property’s owner to bypass specific documentation requirements, facilitating the building’s removal and paving the way for new development.

Brookline School Committee Faces Calendar Debate Amid Disproportionality Concerns

Overview: The Brookline School Committee meeting on November 13, 2025, delved into issues concerning the school calendar and special education disproportionality. A discussion emerged around the proposed 2026-2027 school calendar. Concurrently, the committee addressed concerns regarding the disproportionality in special education, particularly involving black and African-American students.

Monroe Township Planning Board Reviews Ordinance to Amend Affordable Housing Obligations

Overview: In a recent session, the Monroe Township Planning Board reviewed a proposed ordinance aiming to amend the township’s affordable housing obligations, specifically reducing the number of market rate units in a planned development and converting some units into age-restricted senior housing. The board discussed how these changes align with the township’s master plan and statutory affordable housing requirements.