Blandford Select Board Addresses Utility Pole Hearing, Plumbing Repairs, and Fiscal Policy Concerns

Overview: The recent Blandford Select Board meeting focused on multiple issues, including the postponement of a utility pole hearing due to notification errors, unresolved plumbing repairs at the Old Town Hall, and the town’s adherence to fiscal policies. These matters were discussed alongside other community and administrative concerns.

Norton Finance Committee Approves Solar Pilot Agreement, Tackles Budget Challenges

Overview: The Norton Finance Committee recently met to tackle a range of financial topics, with discussions primarily focusing on a new solar pilot agreement, library funding, and the town’s budget constraints. The committee approved a long-debated solar payment in lieu of taxes (pilot) agreement with a solar company operating on Hill Street, which is expected to yield approximately $15,000 annually for the town over the next 11 years. The meeting also delved into the library’s budget request for fiscal year 2026 and the challenges of staffing and compliance in the assessor and treasurer departments.

Sanford Commission Debates Employee Relations and Code Enforcement in Meeting

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Sanford City Commission faced debates addressing employee relations, code enforcement, and significant infrastructure issues.

Southwick Board Faces Scrutiny Over Proposed Municipal Internet and Financial Decisions

Overview: The Southwick Select Board meeting on March 31, 2025, tackled a range of issues, with the proposed municipal internet service drawing particular scrutiny from residents. Concerns were raised about the project’s potential financial implications for taxpayers, alongside deliberations on reserve fund transfers and the need for thorough financial oversight.

Gardner Public Safety Committee Discusses Staffing Challenges and MART Safety Concerns

Overview: The Gardner Public Safety Committee meeting on March 28th focused heavily on staffing issues across several departments, notably within the police and fire departments, alongside a pressing safety concern regarding the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority (MART). The police department’s staffing shortages, driven by recent resignations and anticipated retirements, were a point of discussion, as were the financial constraints limiting officer training and operational readiness. Moreover, safety concerns and alleged underutilization of MART’s services were brought to the committee’s attention, sparking a call for further dialogue with the transit authority.