Hillsborough School Board Grapples with State Funding Cuts and Budget Challenges

Overview: The Hillsborough School Board meeting on January 6th, 2025, was marked by discussions on the district’s ongoing struggle with state funding cuts, particularly the impact of the S2 funding policy. This issue, along with the adoption of the new meeting schedule and budget considerations for the upcoming year, dominated the meeting’s agenda. Concerns about incomplete state data for budget planning and a call for increased community engagement were also focal points.

Old Tappan Borough Council Approves Police Chief Contract Amidst Extensive Community Updates

Overview: In a recent Old Tappan Borough Council meeting, the discussion was dominated by the approval of the police chief’s contract, alongside notable recognitions and updates across various community sectors. The council addressed several critical items, including the unanimous approval of a police chief agreement, acknowledgments of local volunteers, and developments in community services and infrastructure.

Granby Board of Assessors Addresses Property Tax Concerns Amid Rising Assessments

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Granby Board of Assessors tackled concerns from residents regarding increased property tax assessments, focusing on inaccuracies in property records and the potential for abatements to rectify these issues.

Westfield City Council Approves Raises for Planning Board and ZBA Members Amid Budget Adjustments

Overview: During the recent Westfield City Council meeting, the council approved an ordinance amending the city code to match the 2025 budget adjustments that included raises for Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) members. This decision acknowledges the extensive hours these members dedicate due to their frequent meetings. The ordinance had already been accounted for in the approved budget, and the meeting aimed to formalize this alignment. Despite some council members expressing concern about the procedural order of passing the ordinance after budget inclusion, the raises were confirmed with a positive vote.

Grand Rapids School Board Approves Solar Project Amidst Budget Shortfall Concerns

Overview: The Grand Rapids School Board meeting focused on financial decisions, including the approval of a solar project at Bigfork School and discussions surrounding budget shortfalls due to changes in state compensatory revenue and unemployment funding. These financial concerns were coupled with organizational matters such as committee assignments and policy updates.