Newbury Town Faces Website Overhaul to Meet ADA Compliance by 2027

Overview: During the recent Newbury Capital Planning Committee meeting, discussions focused on two issues: the need to overhaul the town’s fragmented website to meet ADA compliance by April 2027, and the pressing demand for a new Senior Center to accommodate the Council on Aging’s growing needs. Both projects highlight the town’s challenges in balancing budgetary constraints with essential infrastructure updates.

Newbury Historical Commission Grapples with Fund Transfer and Historic District Responsibilities

Overview: The recent Newbury Historical Commission meeting was marked by discussions on financial miscommunications, the establishment of a local historic district, and the urgency of addressing these issues at the upcoming town meeting. The commission tackled the unexpected transfer of their funds into free cash and the implications of assuming responsibilities for a new historic district.

Whittier Regional Technical School Committee Faces Backlash Over Vocational Program Closures Amid Enrollment Decline

Overview: The Whittier Regional Technical School Committee meeting was a forum for public comments about the proposed closure of several vocational programs, including Early Education and Care, Design and Visual Communications (DVC), and Masonry. Declining enrollment numbers and the need to align educational resources with student interest were central to the committee’s considerations, prompting debate and emotional appeals from students, alumni, educators, and community members.

Newbury Select Board Approves Public Health Grant and Tackles Surveillance Policy

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Newbury Select Board approved a public health grant agreement, refined a new surveillance camera policy, and deliberated on several regulations and programs affecting local governance and community welfare.

Newbury Planning Board Weighs Road Width Increase for Subdivision Safety

Overview: In a recent Newbury Planning Board meeting conducted remotely, the board deliberated on issues concerning the Gadston Lane and Florence Bushy Lane subdivisions. Key discussions focused on the closure of Gadston Lane’s subdivision agreement and road safety concerns, including a proposal to increase the road width at Florence Bushy Lane for enhanced emergency access.