East Brunswick School Board Elects New Leadership Amid Community Concerns Over Literacy Curriculum

Overview: During the recent East Brunswick School Board meeting, developments included the election of new board leadership and intense community discourse regarding the district’s literacy curriculum. Heather Guas was elected as board president, while Liwu Hong was chosen as vice president. The meeting also featured passionate public comments from parents concerned about the literacy program’s effectiveness and its impact on student performance.

Wildwood Crest Council Faces Public Safety Spending Scrutiny Amid New Ordinances and Appointments

Overview: The Wildwood Crest Borough Council meeting addressed issues including public safety spending concerns, the passage of new ordinances, and multiple appointments for the 2025 calendar year. Public safety expenses were challenged by a resident during the public comments section, prompting a detailed response from the council. Additionally, the council moved forward with ordinances on land use and sidewalks, while also appointing various officials and authorizing contracts for municipal functions.

Bernards Township Faces Leadership Transition Amidst Allegations of Retribution

Overview: The recent Bernards Township Council meeting was marked by discussions about the transition of mayoral leadership and allegations of retaliatory actions within the local government. The meeting also highlighted community priorities, including public safety, affordable housing, and economic development.

Trenton City Council Elects New Leadership Amid Procedural Debate

Overview: The Trenton City Council elected Yasminelly Gonzalez as the new council president and Jasi Mikae Edwards as vice president. The council also debated changes to public notification practices in response to the Trenton Times ceasing print publication.

Acushnet Planning Board Discusses Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw Amid State Guidelines Uncertainty

Overview: The Acushnet Planning Board meeting focused on the draft of the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw, as members discussed how to align local regulations with recently released state guidelines. The board aimed to clarify uncertainties in the draft guidelines issued by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. The state guidelines provided definitions and clarified that only one ADU per property is required by law. However, the board noted that many aspects, such as what constitutes a reasonable regulation, remain unclear.