Littleton Board of Selectmen Address Town’s Hazard Mitigation Plan

Overview: The Littleton Board of Selectmen meeting centered on the comprehensive Hazard Mitigation Plan aimed at making the town more resilient to natural disasters and less vulnerable to future hazards. The plan, presented by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, includes recommendations to mitigate the impact of hazards such as flooding, wildfires, and extreme weather events through preventative actions, property protection, public education, and infrastructure upgrades. Emphasizing the importance of climate considerations and sustainability, the plan also seeks public feedback and aligns with FEMA’s Emergency Operations Plan to maintain eligibility for federal and state grant opportunities.

Highland Park School Board Faces Community Backlash Over Staff Termination

Overview: The recent Highland Park School Board meeting was marked by a debate over the recommended termination of a staff member, Miss Carla, from the after-school program. Community members rallied to her defense, presenting a letter with over 230 signatures, including those of over 35 current and former Irving staff members, urging the board to vote against the superintendent’s recommendation. Parents and community members shared personal testimonies about Miss Carla’s positive impact on students and warned of an erosion of trust between the administration and parents.

Hatfield Select Board Approves Unclaimed Ambulance Revenue Abatement

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Hatfield Select Board tackled a variety of issues, most notably approving the abatement of uncollected ambulance revenues and discussing the allocation of ARPA funds. The abatement amounted to $16,679.24, addressing bills that were uncollectible due to various limitations. Additionally, the board considered the spending of approximately $241,000 in ARPA funds by the end of the year, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the capital plan.

Milltown Considers Historical Preservation Commission Amidst Infrastructure Concerns

Overview: At the latest Milltown Borough Council meeting, a portion of the discussion revolved around the potential establishment of a historical preservation commission. This topic was brought to the forefront by a presentation from the Milltown Historic Preservation Committee, which underscored the missed opportunities resulting from the absence of such a commission, notably the demolition of certain buildings and the consequent loss of tax revenue. The committee’s presentation, spearheaded by Randy Ruth, emphasized the potential benefits of establishing a commission, including increased property values, tax incentives, technical assistance, and access to grants and funding for historic preservation. It sparked a thorough debate among the council and the community members present, regarding the implications for property rights and the criteria for designating historical properties.

Whately Evaluates Electric Future: EV Fleet and Charging Stations Discussed

Overview: In an effort towards sustainability, the Whately Select Board discussed the potential transition of the town’s fleet to electric vehicles (EVs) and the installation of EV charging stations. The meeting, spanning various topics, devoted considerable attention to a report by W and Samson on the town’s readiness for embracing electric mobility.