Bernards Planning Board Postpones Key Meetings and Looks Forward to Affordable Housing Initiatives

Overview: The Bernards Planning Board meeting focused on several significant procedural decisions, including the postponement of upcoming meetings due to a lack of pressing business and the anticipation of future affordable housing efforts. The board also reflected on its year’s work, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in addressing community needs.

Halifax Moves Forward with Mental Health Initiative Despite Financial Concerns

Overview: The Halifax Board of Selectmen meeting on December 2, 2025, was marked by notable decisions on enhancing mental health services and community engagement. The board approved a collaborative intermunicipal agreement to participate in a mental health clinician program, funded through a recently secured grant by Kingston. This initiative, involving the towns of Kingston, Plimpton, and Halifax, aims to restart a co-response program that had previously ended. The agreement includes a financial contribution from Halifax of $9,834 for a mobile trailer to serve as the clinician’s office, with other costs covered by Kingston and Plimpton. The clinician will not only assist police operations but also engage with local schools, focusing on individuals with mental health issues and substance use disorders.

Gardner City Council Addresses Open Meeting Law Complaints and Approves Infrastructure Upgrades

Overview: The Gardner City Council meeting on December 1, 2025, addressed matters, including the resolution of open meeting law complaints, approval of infrastructure projects, and new ordinances regarding parking regulations. One focus was on the complaints filed against the council, which were reviewed by the Massachusetts Attorney General. Additionally, the council approved significant National Grid projects to modernize the city’s electrical infrastructure and discussed amendments to the city code and staffing issues.

Old Tappan Council Discusses Police Chief Vacancy Amid Retirement, Golf Course Fee Hike, and More

Overview: The Old Tappan Borough Council meeting covered several topics, including the impending retirement of the current police captain, discussions on golf course fee adjustments, and proposals for a new dog park. The council also touched on public safety improvements, potential changes in employee healthcare plans, and various community events and projects.

Oronoco Parks & Trails Committee Considers Plastic Recycling for Bench Program and Lions Club Park Adoption

Overview: The recent Oronoco Parks & Trails Committee meeting focused on innovative proposals for park improvements, including a plastic recycling initiative to create benches and a proposal from the Oronoco Lions Club to adopt a park area.