Middletown Council Honors High School Swim Team and Advances Key Ordinances

Overview: The Middletown Town Council meeting on April 7, 2025, recognized the achievements of the Middletown High School North Varsity Girls Swim Team, introduced several important ordinances, and engaged with community concerns during the public comment period.

Chelsea Residents Rally Against Proposed Fish Facility and Advocate for Sanctuary City Status

Overview: In the latest Chelsea City Council meeting, residents voiced their opposition to the proposed Wolves Fish processing facility, citing environmental and community concerns, while also affirming the importance of maintaining Chelsea’s sanctuary city status. The meeting was marked by pleas from community members who fear the potential negative impacts on health, safety, and the city’s social fabric.

Dighton Selectmen Contemplate New User Fee for Trash Collection Amidst Budget Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Dighton Board of Selectmen, discussions centered around the town’s waste management strategies, primarily focusing on transitioning from a tax-based funding model to a user fee system for trash collection. This move is aimed at alleviating the town’s financial burden, specifically the rising annual cost of over $800,000 for trash services. Additionally, the meeting covered other waste management initiatives, such as grant opportunities for a swap shed and backyard composting programs.

Jersey City Council Debates 30-Year Tax Abatement Amid Affordable Housing Concerns

Overview: In a recent Jersey City Council meeting, the discussion was dominated by a lengthy debate over a proposed 30-year tax abatement for a redevelopment project on Newark Avenue. The proposal, which aims to create a 35-story building with 360 residential units, sparked controversy, particularly concerning the allocation of 25% of these units as affordable housing. Other topics included resolutions related to public safety training, the city’s transportation plan, and amendments to cannabis regulations.

Falmouth Select Board Approves Sewer Project Debt Exemption for May Ballot

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Falmouth Select Board voted to place a debt exemption ballot question on the May 2025 election ballot. This question concerns the funding for the Great Pond Phase 1 Sewer Project, a significant municipal initiative aimed at improving water quality by removing nitrogen discharge from septic systems in the Brick Pond watershed. The town plans to finance this project through Proposition 2 and a half debt exemption and has applied for 0% interest loans from the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust. If successful, around 92% of the project’s costs could be covered by these loans, potentially preventing a tax increase.