Hamilton-Wenham December 2024 Education and Community Update

In December 2024, the towns of Hamilton and Wenham actively engaged in a variety of educational and community developments. Key school budget discussions took place, civic involvement was encouraged, and significant progress in public safety and town projects was documented. Here's a breakdown of the crucial points from local meetings and official announcements that impact residents:

• Hamilton-Wenham Regional School Committee Meeting
  • A 5.1% increase in the FY26 budget was proposed, with suggestions for a $1.1 million reduction to avoid operational overrides (source: Hamilton-Wenham School Committee Meeting).
  • Updates on school facility projects included a $142 million elementary school project (source: Hamilton-Wenham School Committee Meeting).
  • Celebrations of student achievements in athletics and arts highlighted the meeting (source: Hamilton-Wenham School Committee Meeting).
• Hamilton Select Board Meeting
  • Openings on various town boards were announced, encouraging resident participation (source: Hamilton Select Board Meeting).
  • Chief Russ Stevens updated the selection process for a new police chief, aiming for a candidate by March (source: Hamilton Select Board Meeting).
  • Approvals for Victualler, liquor, and entertainment licenses were efficiently executed (source: Hamilton Select Board Meeting).
• Hamilton Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting
  • Discussions on new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) legislation took center stage, with concerns over size regulations and neighborhood integrity (source: Hamilton Zoning Board Meeting).
  • Emphasized the need for collaboration on ADU guidelines with the Planning Board and legal counsel (source: Hamilton Zoning Board Meeting).
• Wenham Finance & Select Board Meeting
  • Budget discussions focused on strategies for non-union personnel negotiations and maintaining a balanced budget (source: Wenham Finance & Select Board Meeting).
  • Emphasized transparency and fiscal planning to manage potential tax rate impacts (source: Wenham Finance & Select Board Meeting).
• Police and Fire Department Updates
  • Wenham Police highlighted National Impaired Driving Prevention Month and encouraged safe transportation options (source: Wenham Police Department Facebook).
  • The addition of two experienced officers to the Wenham Police Department was celebrated (source: Wenham Police Department Facebook).

The month was marked by significant discussions and developments that aimed to ensure the growth and sustainability of the Hamilton-Wenham community as it moves into a new year.

This is an AI generated article. There may be inaccuracies.