Hanover Town Council Raises Alarm Over State Legislation Threatening Local Zoning Authority

Overview: The recent Hanover Town Council meeting featured discussions on a variety of topics, with the primary focus on concerns over state legislation that could potentially erode local governance. This was highlighted by the council’s discussion over Bill 1408, which threatens to bypass local zoning authority in favor of state-mandated changes. The council also addressed issues related to affordable housing obligations, police department activities, upcoming community events, and the town’s budget plans.

Chelmsford Planning Board Discusses Comprehensive Lighting Bylaw Changes and Zoning Modifications

Overview: During the recent meeting of the Chelmsford Planning Board, attention was given to the proposed comprehensive changes to the town’s outdoor lighting bylaws. The meeting also covered various zoning modifications aimed at preserving neighborhood character while facilitating appropriate development. The board’s discussions were marked by a focus on ensuring compliance with new lighting standards, addressing zoning challenges related to accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and exploring new zoning categories for specific parcels.

Wildwood Crest Borough Council Voices Strong Opposition to Proposed Dune Project Amid Public Concerns

Overview: The Wildwood Crest Borough Council meeting centered on community issues, notably a contentious dune project intended to address beach erosion and hurricane protection. The council expressed strong opposition to the proposal, which would involve constructing a new dune system reaching a height of approximately 16 feet, citing concerns about its impact on public beach access, safety, and local ecology. The meeting also covered resolutions opposing electricity rate hikes, approving community wellness initiatives, and discussing ongoing municipal projects.

Jacksonville Beach Faces Legislative Hurdles and Strategic Plans for Downtown Revitalization

Overview: The Jacksonville Beach Community Redevelopment Agency meeting on March 12, 2025, focused heavily on legislative threats to redevelopment efforts and strategic plans for downtown revitalization, including boardwalk activation, traffic changes, and infrastructure improvements. Central to the meeting was the discussion of two legislative bills, Senate Bill 1242 and House Bill 991, which pose significant restrictions on community redevelopment agencies, potentially halting new projects and debt issuance from October 1, 2025. These proposed legislative changes could severely limit the agency’s project list until the planned expiration of community redevelopment agencies in 2045. The agency is monitoring these bills, expressing concerns about their potential to stifle redevelopment, local economies, and tourism.

Halifax Selectmen Address MBTA Zoning Mandate, Budget Challenges, and Federal Funding for Schools

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Halifax Board of Selectmen tackled issues including the implications of the MBTA zoning mandate, budget constraints requiring potential cuts to public services, and a proposal to support federal funding for local schools. The board also discussed updates to zoning bylaws and heard from residents about various concerns.