Amherst Town Council Approves Rental Unit Inspections Amid Debate

Overview: In a recent Amherst Town Council meeting, the most issue proved to be the approval of a new bylaw mandating inspections for rental units within the town. This decision, which culminated in an 8-4 vote with one member absent, was reached after extensive debate over its potential financial impact on both property managers and tenants. The council also discussed various other topics, including the North Pleasant Street pedestrian improvements, the Hickory Ridge property development, and the reentry into the Valley Bike Share program.

Norton Finance Committee Votes to Exit Civil Service for Police

Overview: In a recent Norton Finance Committee meeting, the most newsworthy item was the decision to recommend Article 21, which focused on the town’s police department revoking the acceptance of civil service laws. The committee voted in favor, with 10 members supporting the motion. The police chief provided an explanation for the department’s desire to leave Civil Service, citing recruitment and retention challenges. According to the chief, the move is expected to be financially neutral, with minimal associated costs. The committee also discussed the historical context of Civil Service within the town’s police department, including previous attempts to depart from it and past support for the system.

Denville School Board Approves New Kindergarten Bathroom

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Denville School Board addressed a series of topics ranging from student community service initiatives to infrastructural projects and policy revisions. Among the most noteworthy actions, the board granted approval for the construction of a new bathroom at Riverview for kindergarten use.

Cape Canaveral Discusses Vital City Upgrades and Community Projects

Overview: The recent Cape Canaveral City Council meeting was dominated by discussions on the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which encompasses a range of critical projects from the strategic placement of solar panels to enhance emergency power resilience, to the revitalization and improvement of public spaces such as parks and recreational facilities. Key infrastructure upgrades, including stormwater management and transportation, were also primary topics.

Sunderland Select Board Tackles Zoning and Budget Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Sunderland Select Board addressed issues concerning zoning amendments for standalone battery storage facilities and the conversion of structures into multi-family units. Additionally, the board discussed the proposed sewer expansion for the “Closing Corners” property, capital budget approvals including a feasibility study for a multi-use path, and the preservation of the Graves Memorial Library. The meeting also included preparations for the upcoming town meeting with article approvals and budget discussions.