New Data Platform Promises to Transform Student Performance Tracking in New Providence Schools

Overview: The New Providence School Board meeting focused on the introduction and planned implementation of the Linkit data platform, which aims to centralize and streamline student performance data for enhanced educational outcomes. This initiative was part of a broader discussion on improving data management, recognizing recent educational achievements, and addressing upcoming challenges.

Bloomington Commission Grapples with Housing Affordability and Increasing Construction Costs

Overview: The Bloomington Planning Commission meeting focused on the city’s housing issues, including the challenges of affordability and the impact of rising construction costs on development projects. Discussions also covered the city’s demographic shifts, income disparities, and significant planning initiatives aimed at addressing these ongoing concerns.

Union County Zoning Board Rejects Subdivision Proposal Amidst Community Concerns

Overview: The Union County Zoning Board meeting saw a decision as it unanimously voted down a proposal to subdivide an oversized lot into three parcels for the development of new homes. The proposal, which required a D1 use variance and several C variances, was met with substantial opposition from local residents concerned about the impact on their neighborhood’s character and infrastructure.

Yarmouth Planning Board Moves Forward with Local Comprehensive Plan Amid Zoning and Development Discussions

Overview: At the Yarmouth Planning Board meeting on June 25, 2025, Chair Joanne Crowley led discussions on several topics, including the progression of the Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP), zoning regulation changes, and mixed-use development challenges. The meeting emphasized the need for strategic adjustments to accommodate future growth and development in Yarmouth.

Hyde Square Task Force’s Advocacy Spurs Grocery Price Equity in Boston

Overview: The Boston City Council meeting spotlighted the impactful work of the Hyde Square Task Force in addressing grocery pricing disparities in Boston’s neighborhoods. Their advocacy, which highlighted significant price differences between neighborhoods like Jackson Square and wealthier areas such as Dedham, successfully garnered attention from political figures including Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. The Task Force’s efforts led to a reduction in grocery prices in lower-income areas. Task Force member Danny Vargas shared the group’s journey from conducting surveys to affecting real change, committing to continue their fight for pricing equity across other low-income neighborhoods.