South River Secures $1 Million for Water and Sewer Improvements

Overview: The South River Borough Council meeting on August 18, 2025, was marked by the announcement of a financial boost for the borough’s infrastructure. Assemblyman Robert Caravan and Sterling Stanley revealed that a collaborative effort between local and state governments had resulted in securing a $1 million grant for the renovation of water pipes and the sewer system, which are in need of replacement. This funding is expected to greatly improve water quality for the community. The meeting also covered a range of topics, including updates on capital projects, union contract negotiations, and public safety concerns.

Reading Municipal Light Department Board Refines Search for New General Manager Amid Union Negotiations

Overview: The Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) Board meeting focused on refining interview questions and planning sessions to gather employee input for the General Manager search, amidst ongoing union negotiations. The board discussed the importance of candidates having relevant utility experience and debated the phrasing of questions to ensure a comprehensive assessment of applicants.

Norfolk County Commissioners Approve Economic Agreement for Registry Employees

Overview: During the recent Norfolk Board of County Commissioners meeting, the most development was the approval of the economic terms of the registry deeds collective bargaining unit contract. The contract included financial provisions for employees, such as an additional $100 in longevity pay, a $250 training stipend, and a 3% cost of living increase, with a total financial impact of $52,351.8 for fiscal year 2026. These salary increases, retroactive to July 1, 2025, were already accounted for in the FY26 budget. The commissioners unanimously supported the motion to approve these terms.

Dighton Faces $954,000 Budget Deficit; Town Considers Service Cuts and Wage Freezes

Overview: The Dighton Board of Selectmen convened to tackle pressing financial challenges, with a projected budget deficit of $954,000 for fiscal year 2027. The board explored various options to mitigate the shortfall, including wage freezes, service reductions, and potential personnel cuts.

Chicago School Board Grapples with $734 Million Deficit Amid Calls for Equity and Transparency

Overview: The Chicago School Board’s Agenda Review Committee meeting was dominated by discussions on the $734 million budget deficit, highlighting the need for additional revenue streams to sustain educational progress. The proposed FY26 budget, totaling $10.22 billion, aims to address this deficit while maintaining school funding and avoiding cuts that could hinder educational services. The budget includes $5.43 billion in unrestricted funds and $4.82 billion in restricted expenditures, with mandatory pension contributions and debt service payments exceeding $1 billion. Despite efforts to cut $146 million from various expenditures to prevent direct reductions to schools, a $569 million gap remains unresolved.