River Edge Discusses Budget Challenges and Financial Planning

Overview: In a recent River Edge Borough Council meeting, the main agenda was a discussion on the 2024 operational budget, which presented a complex financial picture marked by a 5.55% increase. The budget challenges faced by the municipality were outlined, with major drivers including increased costs in police salaries, employee health insurance, Social Security, landfill fees, and liability insurance. The council also discussed the anticipated bill from Hackensack Paramus for sewer charges and the separate bill for a portion of the town not covered by the Bergen County Utility Authority (BCUA), contributing to a total wastewater budget of approximately $1.6 million. A significant increase in legal services by $225,000 and other notable hikes in recycling costs and finance salaries prompted detailed exploration and debate among council members.

Pasack Valley School Board Tackles Auditorium Renovation and Budget Challenges

Overview: During the recent Pasack Valley School Board meeting, discussions centered around the renovation of the school auditoriums and the challenges of the 2024-2025 budget. The board addressed concerns over the complexities of the auditorium project, including asbestos abatement and its potential impact on school operations. Additionally, the budget report highlighted increased costs and the need for a comprehensive room usage study across the district.

Fort Lee School Board Addresses Policy 5756 Amidst Budget Talks

Overview: In an emotionally charged Fort Lee School Board meeting, the community’s attention centered on the debate over policy 5756, which addresses the rights of transgender and gender non-conforming students. The policy, which has been a source of division within the community, has sparked passionate testimonies from parents, students, and educators. The discussion explored the balance between parental rights and the protection of LGBTQ students, with speakers providing anecdotes and expressing concerns about the policy’s implications. The superintendent began the meeting by acknowledging student achievements, and the school business administrator presented the upcoming school year budget, which includes a tax levy increase and capital reserve appropriations for high school programs.

Glen Rock School Board Addresses Spring Break and Religious Observances

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Glen Rock School Board was met with concerns from the community regarding the scheduling of the spring break and its accommodation for religious observances, particularly the Jewish holiday of Passover. The student achievements were celebrated, but the issue of inclusivity for religious holidays took center stage, with multiple community members expressing their disappointment in the board’s decision not to include a day off for Passover.

Saddle Brook School Board Plans for Enhanced Education and Mental Health Support

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Saddle Brook School Board addressed a range of topics with focus on the district’s financial planning, particularly the tentative school budget, which includes a tax increase proposal and the addition of key educational and support staff positions. The Board also approved the submission of a teacher climate and culture Innovation grant aimed at reducing administrative burdens for teachers, and discussed the implementation of a new AP pre-calculus course.