Yarmouth Voters Approve $1.5 Million Feasibility Study for Emmy Small School

Overview: At the recent Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School Committee meeting, the spotlight was on the approval of a $1.5 million feasibility study for Emmy Small School by Yarmouth voters. The feasibility study will explore various paths, including a standalone renovation or replacement, and two consolidation scenarios: relocating Emmy Small’s students to Station Avenue Elementary School with necessary renovations, or closing both schools to establish a new facility at a different site. The paperwork for this study has been submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority, with further developments anticipated in the upcoming months, including a meeting scheduled for January.

South Hunterdon School Board Showcases Student Poetry, Reviews HIB Policies and Approves Key Contracts

Overview: At the recent South Hunterdon School Board meeting, students shared deeply personal poetry as part of a storytelling project, the board reviewed the district’s Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) self-assessment, and several key contracts for the upcoming school year were approved. The meeting was marked by a focus on student safety, device use policies, and community engagement initiatives.

Albert Lea City Council Faces Business Backlash Over Proposed Liquor License Fee Hike

Overview: During the Albert Lea City Council meeting on November 24, 2025, discussions surrounded a proposal to raise liquor license fees by 40%, prompting significant concern from local business owners. The council also addressed various resolutions, including solar projects, wastewater treatment plant improvements, and accepting property donations, alongside routine councilor reports and community event updates.

Fort Myers Beach Advisory Committee Explores New Boat Acquisition, Planning for Ferry Service

Overview: The Fort Myers Beach Anchorage Advisory Committee meeting on November 24th focused on several topics, including the acquisition of a new town vessel, the planning for a proposed ferry service, and upcoming community events like the Cruisers Appreciation Day. These discussions centered around enhancing local maritime activities, improving community outreach, and addressing logistical challenges in the area.

Estate Donation Significantly Reduces Costs for Porter Memorial Library Expansion in Blandford

Overview: During the recent Blandford Select Board meeting, the town’s expansion project for the Porter Memorial Library took center stage, with the announcement of a substantial reduction in anticipated costs due to a generous donation. Sunner Robbins, a deceased community member, bequeathed approximately $890,000 to the library expansion, nearly halving the town’s financial responsibility for the project. This donation means that residents will not face any tax increases to fund the estimated $1,166,662 needed for the library’s expansion.