Norfolk County Commissioners Debate Employee Handbook vs. Collective Bargaining Agreement

Overview: During a Norfolk Board of County Commissioners meeting held on November 27, 2024, the board grappled with a contentious issue regarding the interplay between the county’s employee handbook and existing collective bargaining agreements, centering around the Registry of Deeds’ hiring practices. The debate revealed a complex tension between procedural adherence and employee rights, highlighting two promotion requests that remained unresolved.

Newbury Select Board Decides on Uniform Tax Rate Amid Fiscal Year 2025 Deliberations

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Newbury Select Board addressed several issues, including a tax classification hearing for the fiscal year 2025, municipal electricity aggregation, and various community initiatives. The board ultimately decided to retain a uniform tax rate, maintaining a residential factor of one, as recommended by the Board of Assessors, amidst discussions of minor fiscal adjustments and strategic community developments.

Upper Township Council Approves $1.9 Million for Local Infrastructure and Safety Improvements

Overview: In a recent Upper Township Council meeting, members approved the allocation of $1.9 million in local aid to enhance infrastructure and ensure safe routes to schools. This funding, divided into two distinct funds, is part of ongoing efforts to improve community safety and accessibility.

Acton Select Board Approves Property Acquisition Amid Concerns Over Housing Development

Overview: During the recent Acton Select Board meeting, a major topic of discussion was the approval of a motion regarding the acquisition of two properties on Weatherbee Street, with the board voting to appropriate $3.68 million, partially funded by a $500,000 state land grant. The properties will be placed under a conservation restriction, effectively expanding the town’s existing conservation land. This decision came after several years of pursuit by Acton’s Open Space Committee and was met with both support and concerns over the potential impact on housing development.

Hillside School Board Celebrates Literacy Initiative Amidst Community Concerns and Staffing Challenges

Overview: The recent Hillside School Board meeting highlighted the district’s commitment to literacy improvement through a new reading mentoring program, acknowledged community concerns over social media portrayals, and addressed staffing challenges with 16 current teaching vacancies. Acknowledging achievements and ongoing initiatives, the board emphasized the importance of community engagement and innovative educational practices.