Maynard Select Board Revokes Liquor License Amid Ongoing Delays and Frustrations

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Maynard Select Board unanimously decided to revoke the off-premise all-alcohol license for Mayor Liquors due to persistent delays in opening the establishment. Alongside this decision, the board discussed safety enhancements, a contentious liquor store issue, and the implementation of body-worn cameras for local police officers.

Old Bridge Council Navigates Budget Challenges Amid Rising Costs and State Funding Frustrations

Overview: At the recent Old Bridge Township Council meeting, the primary focus was on the presentation and discussion of the 2026 municipal budget. The council grappled with the rising costs of healthcare, utilities, and other contractual obligations, while expressing frustration over stagnant state aid that has not been adjusted for inflation or population growth in decades. The proposed budget, amounting to $75,321,942, seeks to balance essential services with fiscal responsibility, despite an anticipated slight increase in the municipal tax rate.

Steele County Commissioners Debate New Garbage Service Amid Infrastructure Concerns

Overview: During a recent Steele County Board of Commissioners meeting, the board engaged in discussions on several issues, including the potential transition to a new garbage service provider, the implementation of a new Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, and the necessity of upgrading internet infrastructure.

Lawrence Council Faces Transparency Issues Amidst Land Use and Public Engagement Concerns

Overview: At a recent Lawrence Town Council meeting, transparency in governance and communication with residents emerged as central themes. Concerns were raised about the availability of ordinance information, land acquisition disputes, and the council’s methods of engaging with the community, with particular emphasis on the challenges of modernizing communication strategies.

Brookline Tackles Surveillance and Public Records Transparency Amid Budget Cuts

Overview: During the Brookline Select Board meeting, attention was devoted to discussions concerning surveillance technology regulation and public records transparency. The board addressed a range of issues, including the implications of withdrawing from the Boston Regional Intelligence Center (BRIC), as proposed in Warrant Article 25. A speaker recounted a distressing incident involving a high school student whose information was shared with BRIC, resulting in prolonged detention and eventual deportation. This account highlighted concerns over BRIC’s surveillance practices, which reportedly target non-criminal activities and marginalized communities. The speaker stressed the potential for maintaining safety without BRIC, citing Newton as an example, and urged Brookline to reconsider its participation in such programs to prevent similar occurrences and uphold community trust.