Hatfield Committee Considers Sixth Grade Curriculum Shift

Overview: The Hatfield School Committee recently convened to discuss changes in the school district’s structure, with a particular focus on the potential reconfiguration of sixth grade and its move to Smith Academy. The committee also tackled pressing financial issues, including the preschool program’s deficit and school choice policy adjustments.

Hatfield Planning Board Debates ADU Zoning and Property Preservation

Overview: In a recent Hatfield Planning Board meeting, members deliberated on a range of topics including updates to zoning bylaws for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), the preservation of agricultural land, and various resident requests for property modifications. The most discussion centered on the proposed amendments to zoning bylaws concerning the regulation of detached ADUs and ADA design, with a focus on the requirement for a special permit for ADUs on lots smaller than 60,000 square feet.

Hatfield Select Board Tackles Wastewater Treatment Upgrade

Overview: The Hatfield Select Board meeting on April 2nd, 2024, addressed several issues, with the most significant being the wastewater treatment plant upgrade. The board met with engineers to discuss the single bid received for the project, notably lower than the budget estimate made five years ago. Concerns were raised about the project’s potential challenges, especially regarding electrical overhauls and underground work. The discussion extended to the importance of alternative AES, with the board considering the cost implications and the potential need for additional funding through a town meeting article or a USDA supplemental loan. Other topics included the sick leave policy for part-time library employees, approval of sewer and water billing commitments, a new hire for the position of heavy equipment operator, a traffic study for Hatfield Village, and the approval of a farm bike tour fundraiser.

Hatfield Select Board Approves Historic Artifact Storage Repair

Overview: The Hatfield Select Board, in a recent meeting, approved an estimated $9,968 for repairs and restoration of the storage area designed to house historical artifacts, with funds to be allocated from the ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act).

Hatfield School Committee Tackles Budget and School Choice Deadlines

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Hatfield School Committee addressed topics including budget adjustments, school choice deadlines, community building efforts, and improvements in communication and professional development. One notable issue discussed was the fiscal year 2024 budget, which shows a net decrease in spending by approximately 2% despite a 2.5% increase in town spending, largely due to a decrease in school choice students and the exhaustion of COVID relief funds. Alongside budget concerns, the committee also voted to open school choice for the upcoming fiscal year and considered aligning application deadlines with preschool enrollment to streamline processes for families.