Government

The amount you pay in property taxes each year is based on two things: the tax rate set by the town and the assessed value of your property. While the tax rate is non-negotiable, you do have the right to ask for a review of your assessed value. But you’d better do it soon – Read the full article → from Got an issue with your property tax bill? Act now.

Here’s a list of department and committee meetings scheduled for the week. Monday, January 19 MLK Day – no meetings scheduled Tuesday, January 20 Southborough Affordable Housing Trust Fund Committee, 6:15 pm @ Hearing Room, Town House Board of Selectmen, 7:00 pm @ Hearing Room Town House Assabet Valley Regional Voc. School Committee, 7:00 pm Read the full article → from The week in town government – 1/19

There are a few job openings with the town, both contract and permanent. Here are the details. Conservation Scientist: Provides technical and scientific review for the Conservation Commission. Acts as a scientist, environmental officer, and consultant for the Commission. Approximately 10 hours per week, no benefits. (full job description) DPW Mechanic: Work includes maintenance and Read the full article → from Looking for a job? Think local.

With a projected budget shortfall upwards of $2 million, town departments may have to make deeps cuts for 2010. But in the case of the police department budget, there’s little fat to trim. “Ninety-four percent of our budget is contractual,” Interim Chief Jane Moran told the Advisory Committee this week. Previously-negotiated contracts cover everything from Read the full article → from Police department may have to make difficult cuts

With all the focus on next week’s inauguration, it’s easy to forget we have all new representation closer to home. A new batch of legislators representing Southborough was sworn in on Beacon Hill last week, and all are new to their positions. I doubt anyone would disagree that our legislators have a tough road ahead Read the full article → from Got something to say? How to get in touch with your legislators

Ladder 26 was permanently decommissioned in November 2007. (Photo from the Southborough Fire Department) After Saturday’s accident that claimed the life of a Boston firefighter, it’s no surprise that fire engine maintenance is in the spotlight. That accident has been blamed on faulty brakes. In November 2007, Southborough’s only aerial ladder truck — coincidentally named Read the full article → from Yearly maintenance for fire trucks

Photo from the Southborough Police Department Every year the Southborough Police Department replaces two cruisers. This year they hope to replace one of them with an SUV. At an Advisory Committee meeting last night, Interim Chief Jane Moran explained that the regular cruisers have trouble navigating many town roads and driveways in the snow and Read the full article → from Southborough Police hope to purchase an SUV