Dependabot PR Review & CI Build Stability

[ndegwamartin]

Overview
This ticket covers the ongoing review and handling of automated dependency updates by Depndabot, along with any required follow-up work.

Scope:

• Review all open Dependabot PRs.
• Validate that PRs pass all build and CI checks.
• Merge any PRs that successfully pass validation.
• Investigate and resolve any failing build or CI checks.
• Identify and implement any necessary refactors required to support dependency upgrades.
• Ensure compatibility and prevent regressions after upgrades.
• Update documentation if changes affect setup or usage.
• Flag or escalate any high-risk or breaking changes for team discussion.

Notes:

• Pay special attention to major version upgrades as they may introduce breaking changes.
• Coordinate with the team if architectural changes are needed.
• Consider batching smaller updates where appropriate to reduce CI load.