Westport Planning Board Grants Special Permit for Old Harbor Road Development

Overview: The Westport Planning Board has granted a special permit for a property on Old Harbor Road. This permit will allow for a reduction in frontage requirements on a public way, in exchange for a reduction in development density, enabling the creation of one new lot. The decision was reached after careful consideration of the potential impact on infrastructure and density, with specific findings and conditions attached to the permit.

Bernards Town Council Approves Budget, Focuses on Community Safety

Overview: The recent Bernards Town Council meeting was primarily centered on the approval of the 2024 Municipal budget and the 2024 golf utility budget, with a notable tax rate decrease from the previous year. The budget, amounting to $46,252,800, includes provisions for three new full-time staff positions, an increase in the capital budget, and a focus on public safety with the anticipated addition to the police force. The council discussed the increase in interest on investments and deposits, an additional surplus of just under a million dollars as revenue for the year, and the importance of grants in saving money for the budget.

Hopkinton Planning Board Tackles Stormwater and School Expansion Issues

Overview: In a recent Hopkinton Planning Board meeting, discussions centered on the release of a bond for Hopkinton Highlands 3 and the potential adoption of a specialized energy code aimed at reducing carbon emissions from new buildings. The meeting also delved deep into the complexities of stormwater management for proposed developments, highlighting the challenges posed by poor soil conditions and high groundwater levels. Furthermore, the board engaged in a review of a significant school expansion project, which seeks to address overcrowding concerns at the Hopkins school.

Escambia County Council Debates Funding and Development Issues

Overview: The Escambia County Council meeting addressed several issues, including the allocation of funds for electric buses, a pending attorney general’s opinion on tourist development tax funds, and concerns over a development project’s adherence to the master plan. The discussions were marked by varying opinions on the utilization of funds and the impact of development projects on local communities.

Seminole Board of Adjustment Grants Multiple Variance Requests

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Seminole Board of Adjustment granted several variance requests, with focus on property setback reductions. The meeting included the approval of a front yard setback reduction for a front porch addition on Fairway Drive, a side yard setback reduction for lot one on Tangerine Avenue, and an East Side Street setback reduction for a privacy fence on West Faith Terrace. Additionally, the Board approved lot size and setback variances for other properties.