BOSTON – Gov. Maura Healey signed the $56.2 billion state budget for fiscal year 2024 on Aug. 9.
The budget, which calls for increased local aid and free universal school meals, also includes funding for several local initiatives, according to press releases from Rep. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury) and Sen. Michael Moore (D-Millbury).
According to Kane’s press release, $75,000 will be directed to Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services to provide mental health services. Kane also secured $30,000 for furniture for the children’s room at Shrewsbury Public Library, and $15,000 for automated external defibrillators at Shrewsbury’s recreation programs and athletic facilities.
Moore secured $35,000 for American with Disabilities Act improvements to Dean Park.
Moore also had earmarks for several regional initiatives, including $40,000 to the Lake Quinsigamond Commission to manage invasive plants, monitor water quality, provide educational opportunities and upgrade waterway navigation markers.
Westborough will also have some state funding come its way – $45,000 for security cameras for Westborough Town Hall and the Senior Center; and $45,000 toward the restoration of Cedar Swamp.
Other local earmarks include:
Grafton – $25,000 for public safety improvements; $47,000 to purchase a tractor for the Community Harvest Project; $250,000 for the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce; and $6.5 million for the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University.
Hudson – $50,000 for the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority for the continuation of the CatchConnect service pilot; $50,000 for downtown wayfinding improvements; $50,000 for the town to retain a part-time employee to support the MetroWest Food Collaborative; and $75,000 for Fresh Start Furniture Bank Inc.
Marlborough – $175,000 for the Marlborough Fire Department to replace CAD software and provide technology upgrades, computers, wiring, cable and television screens at all three fire stations; $250,000 for the Marlborough Police station for the reconstruction of curbing and resurfacing of the parking lot; $45,000 to replace the Northborough-side “Welcome to Marlborough sign; and $100,000 for improvements to the Marlborough Public Library.
Northborough – $25,000 for the renovation, restoration or demolition of the reservoir dam.
Southborough – $20,000 for purchasing equipment and supplies for the Southborough Fire Department; $75,000 for the town to support initiatives to promote the environment and increase accessibility for individuals with disabilities; and $10,000 for equipment and supplies for the Council on Aging.
