Southampton Secures $82,770 Grant for Emergency Cooling Center at William Norris School

Overview: At the recent Southampton Select Board meeting, a significant announcement was made regarding the town’s successful acquisition of an $82,770 action grant from the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) program. This grant will support the development of an emergency cooling and air quality center at William Norris School, aimed at assisting vulnerable community members during extreme weather events. The initiative, titled “Project Stay Cool,” includes a feasibility study to assess infrastructure needs, operational logistics, and potential solar installations, with community engagement efforts focused on youth and seniors. The project is slated for completion by the end of June, with a kickoff meeting planned for mid-October.

Concerns Over Emergency Services Costs Dominate Westampton Town Council Meeting

Overview: The recent Westampton Town Council meeting was marked by discussion regarding the financial implications of a new homeless shelter and its potential impact on local emergency services. Residents voiced concerns over bearing the costs associated with the shelter, while other topics included the establishment of a School Resource Officer in district schools and ongoing issues with public safety due to reckless driving.

Middlesex Borough Council Approves Police Promotions, Discusses Solar Program and Community Events

Overview: The Middlesex Borough Council meeting focused on personnel promotions within the police department, the introduction of a community solar program, and various community events and infrastructure issues. Key resolutions were passed unanimously, highlighting community engagement and future administrative plans.

Clay County School Board Tackles Funding Shortfalls, Policy Updates, and Communication Enhancements

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Clay County School Board discussed issues including significant funding shortfalls, the ongoing update of district policies, and the implementation of a new communication platform, Aptigy. A notable point of discussion was the district’s financial challenges, with a highlighted $47 million shortfall from state funding impacting various budgets and necessitating a 20% reduction, a move described as significant and unprecedented.

Sparta Town Council Faces Controversy Over Mayor’s Leadership and Short-Term Rental Regulations

Overview: The Sparta Town Council meeting on September 23, 2025, centered around contentious issues including the leadership style of Mayor Neil Clark, short-term rental regulations, and the enforcement of local ordinances. Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the mayor’s approach and called for more effective governance, while council members grappled with procedural disagreements and community concerns.