Saddle Brook Town Council Faces Budget Challenges Amid Push for McFarland Memorial

Overview: The Saddle Brook Town Council meeting addressed budget challenges for 2025, with a proposed 3.12% increase in spending largely driven by fixed costs such as health benefits and insurance premiums. The council also faced impassioned calls from residents for a more fitting memorial for local hero Bruce McFarland.

Fifth Graders Honored with Awards and Celebrations at New Milford Moving-Up Ceremony

Overview: The recent New Milford School Board meeting featured a spirited and emotional moving-up ceremony for fifth graders at Berkeley School and BFG Gibbs Elementary School, highlighting the students’ accomplishments and readiness for middle school. The gathering emphasized personal growth, academic achievements, and community involvement, with various educators and administrators lauding the students’ efforts and contributions.

Little Ferry School Board: Richfield Park School District Emerges from State Receivership After Nine Years

Overview: In a development, the Richfield Park School District has successfully exited state receivership, a status it held since January 2016 due to a major financial deficit. This achievement was highlighted during the recent Little Ferry School Board meeting, where board members reflected on the district’s turnaround and the positive implications for students who attend schools there.

Hackensack School Board Appoints New Superintendent Amid Superintendent Suspension and Community Concerns

Overview: The Hackensack School Board meeting addressed significant leadership changes, including the suspension of Superintendent Thomas McBryde Jr. and the appointment of Andrea Oats Parchment as the acting superintendent. Community members voiced varied concerns during the meeting about transparency and governance, highlighting the district’s ongoing challenges.

Washington Township Faces Affordable Housing Mandate Amidst Community Concerns

Overview: The Washington (Bergen) Town Council meeting on Thursday was largely dominated by discussions on affordable housing obligations, planning, and the community’s response to state mandates. The council is grappling with a complicated affordable housing plan, which the state has mandated must be completed within a shorter timeline than usual, and decisions about zoning and development have raised both logistical questions and local concerns.