Halifax Selectmen Address Increased Town Expenses and Prepare for Town Meeting

Overview: The Halifax Board of Selectmen met to discuss increases in town expenses and preparations for the upcoming town meeting. The board approved a series of line item transfers to address budget shortfalls in various accounts, including a 50% increase in the Town Hall electricity rate and additional expenses in payroll and insurance due to mid-year rate hikes and contract negotiations. The meeting also covered the declaration of a surplus vehicle, the process for the upcoming town meeting, and procedural adjustments for future meetings.

Halifax Residents Debate Community Preservation Act Adoption

Overview: At the recent Halifax Conservation Commission meeting, a portion of the discussion centered on the proposal to adopt the Community Preservation Act (CPA), a program that could have a profound impact on the town’s future development. The CPA would involve a 1.5% annual surcharge on local property taxes, with exemptions for low-income housing and certain property values, and is designed to fund historic preservation, open space preservation, recreational facilities, and affordable housing initiatives.

Halifax Weighs Community Preservation Act and Its Financial Implications

Overview: At the latest Halifax Conservation Commission meeting, significant time was devoted to the potential adoption of the Community Preservation Act (CPA), a measure that could lead to a 1.5% surcharge on local property taxes while aiming to invest in historic preservation, open space, recreation, and affordable housing. The discussions included the financial implications of the CPA, potential projects eligible for funding, and the importance of community involvement and education regarding the program.

Halifax Selectmen Allocate ARPA Funds to Fire Department and Financial System

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Halifax Board of Selectmen made critical financial decisions affecting the town’s future. The board allocated American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to important town projects, including a financial management system upgrade and essential fire department gear. The meeting also covered the approval of a live entertainment permit for the Halifax Pride event, a bond for water department upgrades, the continuation of a fuel supply contract, the creation of a senior center building committee, and the discussion of various financial matters such as a capital plan and community preservation fund.

Halifax Faces Tough Choices on School Budget and Transportation

Overview: The Halifax Conservation Commission recently held a meeting focused on the issues of school budget cuts and the implications these would have on the transportation and overall quality of education. The town faced the challenge of reducing the school budget by an additional $143,000, as requested by the town, to meet the cost of education threshold for fiscal year 2025. The potential reductions sparked extensive discussion, with the commission debating whether to follow the town’s recommendation or explore alternate avenues.