Sunderland Select Board Eyes $50 Million Shared-Use Path to Enhance Connectivity and Safety

Overview: During the recent Sunderland Select Board meeting, members and attendees engaged in an extensive discussion about a proposed $50 million shared-use path along Route 116. This initiative, which aims to establish a 6.7-mile path connecting key areas such as the University of Massachusetts and the Noric Rail Trail, was the meeting’s focal point. The project, designed to promote connectivity and safe recreational opportunities, includes a 10-foot-wide path with grass buffers and reduced travel lane widths. Although still in the conceptual phase, the project has sparked considerable interest and debate among board members and the community.

Sunderland Select Board Advances Website Enhancements for Citizen Engagement

Overview: During the recent Sunderland Select Board meeting, members unanimously agreed to create a dedicated section on the town’s website for citizen petitions. The meeting also saw the reappointment of Nathaniel Waring as chair, discussion on a special municipal employee appointment, and plans to honor Sunderland’s oldest resident.

Sunderland Select Board Addresses Sick Bank Oversight and Town Meeting Preparations

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Sunderland Select Board tackled a significant oversight regarding the town’s sick bank hours, initiated a review of the annual town meeting preparations, and approved a liquor license for an upcoming event.

Sunderland Select Board Extends Police Chief’s Contract with New Residency Requirement and Salary Increase

Overview: The Sunderland Select Board meeting on April 14, 2025, focused on several topics, including the approval of a new contract for the police chief, the allocation of funds for capital projects, and budgetary deliberations for the upcoming fiscal year. The board also addressed the hiring of new personnel and amendments to existing contracts, all of which were unanimously approved.

Sunderland Select Board Discusses Complex Budget Adjustments and Short-Term Rental Regulations

Overview: The recent meeting of the Sunderland Select Board focused on financial discussions, including budget adjustments for fiscal year 2026 and the implementation of short-term rental regulations. The board addressed substantial budgetary changes, such as reallocations to the highway and recreation departments, while exploring new capital project funding strategies. Additionally, discussions on short-term rental regulations highlighted the town’s aim to generate new tax revenue from platforms like Airbnb.