Southampton Select Board Accepts $1 Million Donation for Property Acquisition

Overview: In a brief but significant meeting held on September 17, 2024, the Southampton Select Board accepted a $1 million donation from Richard R. Bole to fund the acquisition of property on College Highway. This donation aims to alleviate the financial impact on the town’s taxpayers, reducing the amount the town needs to borrow for the purchase from $2.2 million to $1.2 million.

Newark Residents Challenge Tax Abatements and Call for Greater Transparency

Overview: The Newark City Council meeting on September 17, 2024, saw significant public dissent over the council’s handling of tax abatements, housing policies, and other pressing community issues. Residents voiced strong opposition to a 20-year tax abatement for a self-storage facility, criticized the financial management of the city, and questioned the council’s transparency in decision-making processes.

Trenton City Council Faces Foreclosure Issues and Plans to Rename Athletic Complex

Overview: In a recent Trenton City Council meeting, attention was given to foreclosure issues faced by local property owners, the renaming of an athletic complex, and ongoing community initiatives. Key discussions included public testimonies about unexpected property foreclosures, a resolution to rename the Athletic Complex after Sharon Grady, and various community-focused projects.

Rochester School Board Discusses Potential $16.7 Million Budget Cut Amid Financial Uncertainty

Overview: The Rochester School Board meeting on September 17, 2024, focused heavily on addressing the potential consequences of a $16.7 million budget cut, should the upcoming November referendum fail to pass. This financial shortfall, largely attributed to insufficient state funding and rising operational costs, has prompted the Board to consider various cost-saving measures, including school closures and increased class sizes.

Richfield HRA Discusses Local Option Sales Tax for Infrastructure Projects

Overview: The Richfield Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) convened on September 16, 2024, to discuss several issues, including the introduction of a local option sales tax to fund infrastructure projects, the approval of a five-year public housing plan, and initiatives to enhance downtown Richfield’s economic vitality.