Longmeadow Select Board Endorses New Fire Chief Amid Extensive Town Planning Discussions

Overview: The Longmeadow Select Board convened on October 7th, 2024, to endorse Deputy Chief John Rigny as the new Fire Chief, replacing the retiring Chief Dearborn. The meeting also covered various topics, including infrastructure planning, committee appointments, and upcoming town events.

Townsend Planning Board Discusses Key Projects: 22 Main Street Permit Extension Approved

Overview: The Townsend Planning Board, during its meeting on October 7th, 2024, addressed issues including the approval of a six-month extension for the site plan review special permit on Main Street, the consideration of a new Starbucks at Harbor Village, and discussions surrounding age-restricted housing developments.

Lakeville Secures $5 Million Homeland Security Grant for Fire Department Expansion

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Lakeville City Council discussed developments, including a $5 million grant from the Department of Homeland Security for hiring 15 new full-time firefighters. The council also navigated the complexities of the 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan, which outlines a $316 million investment in infrastructure and community projects, and approved amendments to the Cedar Hills North comprehensive plan.

Norton Conservation Commission Faces Legal Liabilities Over Shac Landfill Settlement

Overview: The Norton Conservation Commission meeting held on October 7, 2024, via remote participation, primarily focused on the town’s financial liabilities related to the Shac landfill case. The town is one of 12 entities accountable for damages incurred years ago, with the total financial obligation exceeding $1 million, though the town’s portion is a lesser fraction. This situation has sparked concerns about prior agreements made when the town took possession of the property, which allegedly suggested no financial liabilities.

Norton Finance Committee Faces Budget Challenges Amid Rising Construction Costs and Project Delays

Overview: The Norton Finance Committee recently gathered to address critical financial decisions, grappling with funding reallocation for demolition projects and the intricacies surrounding Articles 11 and 12, which relate to the repurposing of funds and the $40 million in appropriations for the town hall and senior center projects. Rising construction costs and structural concerns prompted the committee to reconsider previous assurances about demolishing the Old Town Hall, as they faced the challenge of staying within budget constraints.