Shutesbury Council on Aging Addresses Digital Equity and Elder Justice

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Shutesbury Council on Aging tackled a range of topics important to the local elderly community, including the formation of a Digital Equity committee, the discussion of an Elder Justice unit, and the potential implementation of a medical portal training class. The meeting, which included technical difficulties, also highlighted the importance of community involvement in developing an action plan for the council and discussed the logistics of the returning Foot Care Clinic.

Shutesbury Select Board Tackles Task Force Formation and Public Funding

Overview: In a recent Shutesbury Select Board meeting, the formation of a new task force to address the mixing of public and private funding for geographic issues emerged as a key topic. The Select Board engaged in a debate over the proposed task force’s role in leveraging funds for projects identified in multiple environmental studies. These studies highlighted concerns regarding stormwater erosion and road-related issues affecting Lake Wyola. The discussion also covered the practical implementation of supercharging stations, the impact of a recent open meeting law complaint, and the resignation of a long-serving community member from several committees.

Shutesbury Committee Plans Night Sky Event Amid Budget Talks

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Shutesbury Recreation Committee, members discussed the planning of a night sky event, addressed the allocation of funds for community activities, and considered the organization of regular hikes to Ames Pond along with the construction of a boardwalk there. Additionally, the committee debated providing financial support for local events, including art shows and artist studio tours, and discussed the purchase of new equipment and popup tents for future events.

Shutesbury Personnel Board Addresses Outdated Personnel Handbook and Hiring Practices

Overview: The Shutesbury Personnel Board meeting addressed issues regarding the town’s personnel policies and hiring practices, which included discussions on updating the outdated personnel handbook, revising the hiring process for public safety departments, and conducting salary studies to ensure competitive municipal wages. The board underscored the importance of modernizing the personnel handbook, last revised 24 years ago, to reflect current standards, especially concerning sexual harassment and inclusion policies.

Shutesbury Commission Examines Environmental Impact of Geotechnical Project

Overview: The Shutesbury Conservation Commission recently convened to address several matters, with the most significant being the environmental implications of a proposed geotechnical soil boring project by New England Power Company. The project, which involves subsurface evaluations for future structure replacement along the E5 F6 transmission right of way, was presented by a representative of BSC Group. The presentation spurred a comprehensive examination by the commission, focusing on the potential impacts on wetlands and water areas, adherence to best management practices, and the plansning necessary to ensure minimal environmental disruption.