Berkeley Heights Council Tackles Affordable Housing Mandates

Overview: In the latest Berkeley Heights Town Council meeting, attention was devoted to the update on new affordable housing laws affecting the township. The town’s affordable housing attorney briefed the council on the impact of a recently signed bill by Governor Murphy, which introduces substantial changes to the Fair Housing Act and affordable housing regulations. This new legislation mandates local governments to comply with a fourth round of affordable housing planning, setting strict deadlines to report to the Department of Community Affairs and establishing fair share numbers for regional needs.

Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board Debates Tree Removal and Electric Bike Shuttle Service

Overview: The recent Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board meeting was marked by discussions on the removal of trees in various locations and a proposal for a new electric bike shuttle service for beachgoers. The board also tackled issues related to non-resident mooring owner parking and the potential classification changes for the Harbor Master’s office.

Dighton Discusses Solar Projects Amid Stormwater Management Concerns

Overview: In a recent Dighton Stormwater Commission meeting, one notable issue addressed was the intersection of agricultural activities and stormwater management in relation to the Blue Wave Solar project at Treemont and Middle Streets. During the meeting, significant time was dedicated to the discussion of the project’s progress and the challenges ahead. The commission debated the impact of beginning agricultural work, including decompaction and picking rocks in the array rows, while waiting for the final sign-off on the stormwater permit. This highlighted a concern about how these activities might affect the stormwater system, though it was noted that agricultural operations are typically exempt under the stormwater permit.

Boston Disability Commission Tackles Behavioral Health and Accessibility

Overview: The Boston Disability Commission Advisory Board meeting focused on critical initiatives aimed at improving mental health services for young people and enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities throughout the city. The meeting featured a significant presentation by Dr. Kevin Simon, the city’s first appointed chief of behavioral health, who outlined the state of behavioral health in Boston and underscored the importance of addressing social determinants of mental health. The board also delved into discussions about the allocation of a one million dollar initiative to support behavioral health in students, efforts to include disability considerations in public space planning, and the implementation of accessibility measures for upcoming events.

Perry City Council Seeks Grant for Downtown Revitalization

Overview: In a recent Perry City Council meeting, the most pressing topic was the resolution for the need approval of a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) aimed at the revitalization of the downtown area. The council debated the necessity of additional funding of $2.15 million, which is more than the usual $700,000, to support the commercial sector’s redevelopment. The discussion encompassed the urgency of the grant, the process for selecting engineering firms, and the allocation of the funds.