Conway Selectboard Confronts Flooding Challenges with PL 566 Program Participation

Overview: The recent Conway Selectboard meeting was dominated by discussions concerning the persistent flooding issues affecting key waterways, particularly Bloody Brook and Sugarloaf Brook. The board explored multiple strategies to address these challenges, including the potential benefits of joining the federally funded PL 566 program, which supports watershed protection and flood prevention efforts.

Littleton Finance Committee Deliberates Significant School Budget Increase Amid Financial Constraints

Overview: The recent Littleton Finance Committee meeting focused heavily on the proposed fiscal year 2026 school department budget, highlighting a challenging balance between necessary increases and fiscal constraints. The proposed budget, which seeks an increase of $975,200 from the current $26,418,189, faces scrutiny due to the town’s pressure to maintain a level-funded budget. The school department presented several offsets to manage the salary increase, proposing to reduce it to $425,000, a 1.6% rise over the previous year.

Putnam County Council Seeks to Restore Public Transit Amid Service Decline

Overview: At the recent Putnam County Council meeting, the significant decline in public transportation services was the focal point of discussions. The once-thriving demand response dial ride service has seen a drastic reduction in users, dropping from 2,042 unduplicated passengers in 2023 to only 670 this year. This decline has been attributed to the shutdown of several routes, transforming the county’s previously lauded transportation system into a struggling service.

Cranbury Township Committee Faces Staffing Shortages Amid Budget Discussions

Overview: The recent Cranbury Township Committee meeting was primarily centered on the 2025 budget, with a focus on the police department’s staffing challenges and the need for capital improvements across various township facilities. Discussions highlighted the need for additional officers due to increasing community demands and ongoing fiscal responsibilities, while also addressing capital improvement needs at Town Hall and the senior center.

East Longmeadow Advances School Roof Project with $370,000 Appropriation Amid Council Debate Over Transparency and Solar Bylaws

Overview: The East Longmeadow Town Council meeting on January 20, 2025, focused on community development and financial appropriations, including a $370,000 transfer from free cash to fund a feasibility study for replacing the flat roof at Maple Shade Elementary School. This move aims to position the town for a potential grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). Discussions also covered transparency initiatives, significant zoning bylaw amendments concerning photovoltaic installations, and acceptance of multiple grants.