Malden City Council Moves to Raise Room Occupancy Tax to Boost Revenue

Overview: In a recent Malden City Council meeting, the council tackled various proposals, notably the decision to increase the local room occupancy excise tax from 4% to 6%. This move, recommended by the finance committee, is expected to generate an additional $75,000 to $100,000 in revenue.

Cape Canaveral City Council Approves $10,000 Study on Rocket Launch Impacts Amid Rising Concerns

Overview: The Cape Canaveral City Council meeting on April 15, 2025, focused heavily on the impacts of the increasing frequency of rocket launches, particularly in relation to SpaceX’s Starship program. The council approved a $10,000 monitoring study in collaboration with the Florida Institute of Technology to assess the environmental and structural effects of rocket launches in the area.

Bernards Township Faces Heated Debate Over Westgate Housing Development

Overview: At the recent Bernards Township Committee meeting, discussions were dominated by debates over the proposed Westgate housing development and its implications for the community. Residents and committee members voiced concerns about the potential overdevelopment, infrastructure strain, and the community’s ability to meet state-mandated affordable housing obligations.

Fall River TIF Board Approves Housing Projects, Denies Cook Pond Tax Break

Overview: The Fall River Tax Increment Financing Board approved a tax increment financing (TIF) agreement for the redevelopment of the historic Globe Street Mill into 89 market-rate residential units. However, the board denied a TIF request for the Overlook at Cook Pond project, a new townhouse development on South Main Street.

Southampton Select Board Advances Key Infrastructure Projects and Budget Discussions

Overview: The recent Southampton Select Board meeting centered on infrastructure projects and budget deliberations. Notably, the board approved a purchase agreement for the Walcat Road Mountain Waters conservation project and discussed updates on the College Highway water main replacement.