Rochelle Park Council Debates Development Project

Overview: During a recent Rochelle Park Town Council meeting, one notable issue discussed was a debate over a new development project, specifically regarding financial agreements and the potential of a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) program. The development project in question involves the Roell AB Bank Diner property. A representative from Dakota’s Law Firm explained the resolution reaffirmed the property’s designation as an area in need of redevelopment and designated Ro and R LLC as the developer. The possibility of the property being used for a municipal building was mentioned, but the current proposal does not include this option.

Ridgewood Council Addresses Flooding and Infrastructure Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Ridgewood Council tackled a range of issues, with focus on community infrastructure concerns, particularly the lead service line replacement plan and water infrastructure projects. The comprehensive plan, a state-mandated requirement, involves a $39 million project to replace over 2,000 lead service lines within the community. The council discussed the details of the plan, including the financing structure and property owner options, with a focus on low-interest loans and a special assessment ordinance that would add a tax onto property owners’ real estate taxes. The gravity of the flooding issue was also a major topic, with the council discussing a 20-point plan for reducing flooding and improving stormwater management, highlighting the complexity and urgency of the problem.

River Edge Land Use Board Navigates Cannabis and Pool Regulations

Overview: In a recent session, River Edge Land Use Board has put forth a recommendation that the proposed cannabis retail establishment ordinance is consistent with the master plan. This recommendation follows a review and discussion of the ordinance, which focuses on the establishment of a cannabis overlay zone, licensing, and taxation of cannabis retail sales near the Liberty Travel location. Additionally, the board tackled various applications concerning property improvements, with a particular focus on the approval of a pool installation that raised questions about lot coverage and drainage implications in the borough.

Oradell School Board Advances Math Curriculum, Preps for Odyssey of the Mind

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Oradell School Board, a key focus was the advancement of a newly revised math curriculum set to be implemented in Fall 2024. After a rigorous evaluation process involving 15 different resources, the math curriculum steering committee has selected a program that outscored others significantly. The next step involves sharing this resource with the curriculum committee and finalizing implementation details.

Ramsey Council Approves 2024 Municipal Budget Amid Challenges

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Ramsey Borough Council unanimously approved the 2024 Municipal budget, which addresses the economic challenges of inflation and high interest rates while complying with New Jersey state appropriation caps. The budget, presented by Borough administrator Bruce Vos, emphasizes Ramsey’s financial stability through low debt levels and careful fiscal management, positioning the borough favorably among Bergen County municipalities.