Milton Zoning Referendum Vote May Move to Wednesday Due to Snow Concerns

by Patrick Wilson

Milton’s hotly contested zoning referendum vote, originally scheduled for Tuesday, February 13th, could be pushed back a day due to anticipated snowfall. Town officials are seeking an emergency court order to reschedule the vote to Wednesday, February 14th, prioritizing voter safety and accessibility.

The referendum centers on a new zoning map that would allow multifamily housing near public transit stations, complying with a state law to encourage transit-oriented development. While the plan was approved by a Special Town Meeting in December, opponents successfully petitioned for a town-wide vote.

With parts of Massachusetts expecting over a foot of snow starting Tuesday morning, town officials expressed concerns about the potential impact on voter turnout and accessibility to polling places. Postponing the vote by 24 hours would allow for safer travel conditions and potentially increase participation.

Absentee ballot applications are still being accepted provisionally until 5 pm on Monday. However, it’s important to note that if the vote remains on Tuesday, any absentee ballots submitted after noon will not be counted. Residents are encouraged to vote in person if possible or submit their absentee ballots before the deadline.

The final decision on the potential postponement rests with the court. Town officials will update the community on the official outcome through the town website.

** This piece was created with the help of ai.

Stepmother in Harmony Montgomery Murder Trial Details Alleged Abuse and Disposal of Body

By Patrick Wilson

In a harrowing testimony at the ongoing murder trial of Adam Montgomery, his estranged wife, Kayla Montgomery, painted a disturbing picture of alleged abuse towards her and their daughter, Harmony. Adam is accused of killing 7-year-old Harmony in 2019.

Kayla’s emotional testimony recounted the night Harmony died, claiming Adam punched their daughter multiple times after she urinated in their car, resulting in her death. Despite realizing the severity of his actions, Adam allegedly drove around with Harmony’s deceased body for hours, exhibiting a chilling disregard for the situation.

Their journey took them to various locations, including a homeless shelter where Harmony’s body was placed in a ceiling vent, and Adam’s workplace freezer. Kayla described living in constant fear as Adam reportedly discussed dismembering the body with tools like saws and blenders, further escalating the abuse he inflicted upon her.

While acknowledging the horrific nature of the events and the “pure evil” she witnessed, Kayla admitted to still having feelings for Adam, calling him her “best friend” and citing fear and their shared children as reasons for her inaction.

Adam’s defense attorney, however, challenged Kayla’s narrative, questioning the timeline and specific details of her claims. They highlighted discrepancies in her statements and the lack of immediate action she took to report the abuse or Harmony’s death.

The trial continues with Kayla remaining a key witness for the prosecution. Adam has pleaded guilty to two lesser charges but maintains his innocence in Harmony’s murder.

This case has shaken the community and raised concerns about child protection and domestic violence. As the trial unfolds, the true extent of Adam’s actions and the complexities of Kayla’s situation will continue to be brought to light.

** This piece was created with the help of ai.