15 Franklin County towns see energy rate hike amid new regulation

Massachusetts lawmakers push for strict data center rules

State lawmakers have proposed a legislative change that would hold data centers responsible for their environmental and financial impact on communities, requiring them to use their own sources of clean energy, pay their own gas infrastructure costs, meet water protection and cumulative impact standards, and forfeit the state tax exemption if not in compliance.

Selectboard seeks solution for Orange Armory flooding

The Selectboard voted to authorize the town's chief procurement officer to spend up to $20,000 in emergency funds to address the Orange Armory's persistently flooded basement, which has caused electrical damage and mold.

Zoning amendments in Greenfield seek to clarify educational, religious exemptions

The Greenfield Planning Board voted to approve zoning amendments to clarify how educational, religious and charitable uses are exempt from zoning regulations under the Dover Amendment, and to provide a process for applicants to demonstrate their qualifications for the exemption.

Montague and Erving Notebook: July 9, 2026

Fire truck purchase approved in Montague Center MONTAGUE CENTER — Residents in the Montague Center Fire District have voted to support the purchase of a new fire engine. The vote took place during the Montague Center Fire District’s annual meeting on June 25. Article 12 sought to use $600,000 to buy a new truck with […]

On the Ridge with Joe Judd: The 'dog days' of summer are near

Whew! As I write this, the heat and humidity have finally broken, but for the most part, the days leading up to the Fourth of July, with the oppressive heat that accompanied it, had my complete attention! And that’s usually a sign that the “dog days of summer” have arrived. But what exactly does the […]