News About Town: Thanks to Volkswagen's shady practices, Matthews may cash in on some benefits from a grant in the settlement the company made with the NC Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ). On Monday night, the Board approved Public Works the Fire Department to send in a proposal application for the replacement of older, diesel-powered vehicles and equipment. The two departments will apply for a grant that will cover 25% of the total cost to purchase four pieces of equipment that need replacing: an excavator, front end loader, dump truck, and rescue truck. Because the grant is a reimbursement, the upfront cost for the town is expected to be $1,070,000, with a reimbursement of around $267,500. After the grant, the calculated financial impact for the town would be approximately $802,500.

News Around Town: Habitat and Wildlife Keepers (HAWK) has maintained a native plant garden at Squirrel Lake Park for years. Native plants are better suited to our region because they are better tolerant to climate extremes, are unlikely to become invasive, and provide food for native wildlife. On September 21st HAWK volunteers pulled weeds in the garden and spread mulch provided by the Town of Matthews. The gardens were being prepared for an upcoming event, Kids In Nature Day. HAWK needs gardeners interested in helping maintain the gardens. For more information, email HAWKncwf@gmail.com. (Thanks for the tip, HAWK!)

One Good Thing: Everyone's favorite boarding schoolgirl is coming to Matthews Playhouse. The Adventures of Madeline takes the stage October 11th through 20th at the Community Center's Fullwood Theater. Follow Madeline on her imaginative and curious adventures as she gets into a little trouble and a whole lot of fun.