Belvidere School Board Announces $90,000 Playground Grant and Discusses Shared Services Agreement

Overview: The Belvidere School Board meeting addressed several topics including the receipt of a $90,000 playground grant aimed at enhancing accessibility for wheelchair-bound students, as well as discussions on the financial benefits of a shared services agreement with Harmony. The board also recognized student achievements and considered adjustments to public participation rules in future meetings.

Bridgewater-Raynham School Board Faces Fiscal Challenges with New Teacher Contract Amid Override Concerns

Overview: The Bridgewater-Raynham Regional School Committee meeting focused on the approval of a new three-year contract with the Bridgewater Arena Education Association for teachers, following two years of negotiations. This contract, set to run from September 2025 to August 2028, proposes changes to the working year, additional sick leave, and varying percentage increases in salaries over the contract period. However, the discussion revealed concerns over the sustainability of these proposed salary increases in light of potential financial constraints and upcoming budget override votes in both Bridgewater and Raynham.

Miami Beach Public Safety Committee Debates Iguana Control and Police Hiring Standards

Overview: During a recent meeting of the Miami Beach Public Safety Committee, discussions focused on iguana control measures and police hiring requirements. The committee examined current iguana management strategies, noting concerns over the use of air rifles for capturing iguanas, especially in waterway areas where it was deemed inefficient. Suggestions for improving iguana control included a collaborative approach with specialized land and water capture teams, as well as exploring alternative methods like water-based snares and nets. Commissioner Fernandez highlighted the removal of over 12,000 iguanas citywide since 2022, with calls to evaluate and possibly expand the current program to address complaints from private property owners.

Mahwah School Board Celebrates Retirements and Appoints New Special Education Supervisor

Overview: In a remarkable Mahwah School Board meeting, the community bid farewells to numerous retiring educators and staff, who collectively contributed over 300 years of service. In a noteworthy development, Abigail Jones was appointed as the new supervisor of special education for sixth grade, succeeding among more than 90 applicants.

Natick Select Board Approves Fire Chief’s Contract, Honors Firefighters, and Discusses Johnson School’s Future

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Natick Select Board ratified a five-year contract for the fire chief, honored firefighters for their service, and engaged in discussions about the future of the Johnson School property. The meeting also covered topics such as the reappointment of Conservation Commission members, town hall operational hours, and signage regulations for local businesses.