Audit Report Highlights Financial Health of River Edge School District Amid Strategic Planning and Personnel Changes

Overview: The River Edge School Board meeting featured a comprehensive presentation of the district’s audit report, revealing a stable financial position for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. The audit, presented by Gary Higgins from PKF Conner Davies, confirmed the district’s adherence to generally accepted accounting principles and awarded it an unmodified opinion, the highest possible rating. The board also discussed strategic planning initiatives, personnel updates, and the superintendent’s evaluation process.

Oradell School Board Faces Community Outcry Over Author Visit Controversy

Overview: The Oradell School Board meeting was dominated by discussions on inclusivity and diversity, primarily centered around the controversy over an author visit featuring Chad Sell, whose work has encountered resistance due to themes involving LGBTQ+ characters. The board faced a barrage of public comments urging transparency in decision-making and advocating for the inclusion of diverse voices and themes in school programming.

Ramsey Borough Council Advances New Zoning Ordinance for Senior Housing

Overview: The Ramsey Borough Council, during its February 26, 2025, session, introduced a significant zoning ordinance aimed at creating a new residential zone, the R5C Island Road multi-family residential zone. This ordinance is designed to facilitate the development of age-restricted housing, addressing the growing need for affordable and senior living options. The council also adopted another ordinance allowing budget appropriations to exceed usual limits, providing flexibility for future financial planning.

Englewood Police Department Faces Staffing Challenges Amid Rising Call Volume

Overview: The Englewood City Council’s recent meeting focused heavily on the police department’s operational challenges, particularly staffing shortages and increased call volumes, amidst budget discussions for various city departments. A notable decrease in the police department’s salary expenses was reported due to retirements and fewer new hires, but overall operational costs rose. The police department’s Chief highlighted an increase in calls for service, which went up by 18% from the previous year, totaling 61,500 responses. This rise in demand has put a strain on resources, with the Fourth Ward experiencing the highest call volume at 22,000 calls, prompting discussions on strategies to manage these demands.

Teaneck Council Deliberates on Protest Restriction Ordinance Amid Community Divide

Overview: In a recent Teaneck Town Council meeting, a prominent topic of discussion was a proposed ordinance that would regulate the time, place, and manner of protests, particularly focusing on safeguarding residential neighborhoods and houses of worship. This proposed regulation has sparked debate among council members and residents alike. Alongside this, the council also considered improvements to local sports facilities and strategies to attract business during the upcoming World Cup.