Westwood School Board in the Hot Seat: Public and Board Members Clash on LGBTQ Policies

Overview: In a recent Westwood Regional School Board meeting, contentious issues including potential changes to the health curriculum, the role of the school board in managing educators, and the handling of divisive topics have sparked heated debate among board members and the public. Transparency issues, such as possible alterations to public participation and a proposal to discontinue live streaming of meetings, also emerged as sources of contention.

Allendale Land Use Board Grapples with Precedents in High-Stakes Property Variance Application

Overview: At a recent Allendale Land Use Board meeting, a significant property variance application was the focus of a challenging debate. A proposal for a two-story expansion at 41 Elmwood, seeking to increase the floor area ratio (FAR) from 22% to 33%, sparked concerns over the possibility of setting an unwelcome precedent, leading to legal intricacies and further FAR questions.

Superintendent Unveils Major Initiatives in an Engaging Town Hall Meet

Overview: In a recently held virtual town hall style meeting dubbed “Coffee with the Superintendent,” Mark Schwartz, the newly appointed Superintendent of Ridgewood Public Schools, unveiled a plethora of initiatives aimed at tackling some of the district’s most pressing concerns. Addressing an array of topics from curriculum rewrites to school bus timings, Schwartz emphasized his commitment to transparency and open dialogue with the community.

Saddle Brook Town Council Discusses Cannabis Manufacturing, Police Department Reforms, and Tax Rebates for Seniors

Overview: In a recent session of the Saddle Brook Town Council, members debated a variety of issues, from expansion plans for cannabis manufacturing establishments to tax rebates for senior citizens. Residents expressed concerns over topics ranging from the barring of the local Police Chief from work, to road safety, to property maintenance.

The Battle for Affordable Housing in Englewood Continues

Overview: The Englewood City Council convened on July 20th, 2023, engaging in a robust discussion regarding the city’s affordable housing obligations. This meeting came following a joint meeting held last week, in collaboration with the Planning Board, which also focused on improving housing affordability.