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Battery Danger Zone: Why Local Missteps Are Putting Millbury At Risk From BESS Fires
Discover the dangers of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and how local approvals without due diligence are putting half of Millbury’s population at risk. Learn about past BESS fires, thermal runaway scenarios, evacuation zones, and why residents must hold officials accountable for failing to demand public safety plans. Explore the latest zoning controversies, including the Oakham BESS exemption request, and find out why electing responsible board members is crucial for community safety and transparency.
Who Should Approve ADUs? Balancing Community Control And Efficient Housing
Explore the pros and cons of Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) approvals in Millbury, Massachusetts. Learn about the differences between Building Inspector and Planning Board approval processes, legal definitions of “by right,” and what voters need to know to make informed decisions on local ADU regulations.
Holding Power Accountable: Why Your Voice Matters In Local Government
Accountability in local government, boards, and committees ensures transparency and prevents mismanagement. This vital guide explains why citizens must speak up and take action when concerns arise, even when facing deflection or personal attacks from officials who would rather blame the messenger. Learn practical ways to document concerns, build community alliances, and utilize your democratic power to compel integrity and competence, ensuring your community thrives under responsible leadership.
Millbury Planning Board Faces Attorney General Review Over Claims Of Silencing Public Debate
Millbury Planning Board and town faces major transparency crisis. Read the summary of the formal Open Meeting Law complaint appeal against the Millbury Planning Board Chair Bruce Devault for allegedly silencing public comment. Find out why residents are demanding an Attorney General review, mandatory board training, and new, fair public comment rules after the Board seemingly "rubber-stamped" its defense.
Planning Board Open Meeting Law Complaints Stack Up
Explore systemic transparency and accountability issues within the Millbury Planning Board. Discover how repeated violations of the Open Meeting Law—including silencing public voices, withholding public records, and limiting participation—have eroded public trust and democratic governance. Learn about specific incidents from August and September 2025, detailed in formal complaints, highlighting unconstitutional viewpoint discrimination, denial of access to critical documents, and a pattern of secrecy. Understand the requested remedies, from mandatory training to compliance monitoring, aimed at restoring fairness and openness in Millbury's local government. Essential reading for residents demanding transparency and accountability.
The Locked Doors Of Millbury: A Call For Transparency And Respect
Millbury residents are calling out locked doors, hidden records, and disrespect from local officials. Democracy depends on transparency, yet residents often face obstacles just to access public records or participate in meetings. Massachusetts laws like the Open Meeting Law and Public Records Law guarantee openness, but they are only the floor—not the ceiling. Millbury should strive to exceed the bare minimum by proactively sharing records, posting meeting materials, and treating residents with dignity. Public records aren’t just documents; they are tools for accountability, informed participation, and preserving community history. The choice is clear: continue with secrecy and legal disputes, or embrace openness, efficiency, and respect. By choosing transparency, Millbury can restore trust and set a higher standard for local government.