Schenectady is bracing for a $6 million shortfall in its 2026 budget now that the federal ARPA funds that stabilized last year’s plan are no longer available. Mayor Gary McCarthy has responded by freezing city hiring, marking the first step in confronting what could be a difficult budget process.

Swampscott’s Select Board voted unanimously Tuesday to appoint accountant Eric Kinsherf as the town’s temporary fiscal steward. His firm, Eric Kinsherf CPA LLC, will manage the books while officials search for a permanent hire.

In a decisive move during budget discussions, Kaslo council has approved a nine percent increase in municipal taxes, surpassing staff recommendations. The decision, made on April 15, signals the council’s commitment to addressing the town’s financial needs.