Englewood Council Faces Public Backlash Over Juneteenth Event Fees and Housing Plans

Overview: Englewood City Council’s recent meeting covered a broad spectrum of community concerns, prominently featuring public dissatisfaction over new park usage fees for the Juneteenth event and debates surrounding affordable housing initiatives. Residents voiced strong objections to the $50 per hour fee imposed on Jabari, the nonprofit responsible for organizing the Juneteenth celebration, arguing that the event is a vital community tradition and should not be financially burdened. Additionally, the council addressed ongoing infrastructure issues, including sewer maintenance and affordable housing development plans, which drew mixed reactions from the public.

Emerson Council Moves Toward Legal Action on Stalled Redevelopment Amid Community Updates

Overview: The Emerson Borough Council convened on May 20, 2025, tackling issues including the prolonged stagnation of the Block 419 redevelopment project, community safety, and infrastructure improvements. Noteworthy actions included initiating legal proceedings against the redeveloper of the troubled project and acknowledging community-driven initiatives and grants to enhance local amenities.

Hackensack Approves $132 Million Budget Amid Concerns Over Rising Costs and Tax Exemptions

Overview: The Hackensack City Council meeting focused on the approval and introduction of budgetary measures, development projects, and community initiatives. The 2025 budget was introduced, revealing a total of $132,391,327 and a spending increase of $1.8 million or 1.3%. The budget discussions highlighted various fiscal challenges, including increased pension costs, health benefits, and the expiration of revenue from the American Rescue Plan. These factors contribute to a $700,000 tax levy increase, impacting residents with an average tax hike of $420 per home, combining municipal and school taxes.

Oakland Borough Council Approves Police Promotions Amidst Robust Meeting Agenda

Overview: The Oakland Borough Council promoted several police officers, navigated key resolutions and ordinances, and addressed community concerns ranging from recreational facility misuse to infrastructure projects. The council’s actions highlighted a focus on public safety, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement.

Wyckoff Residents Voice Concerns Over Group Home Developments in Residential Areas

Overview: Residents of Wyckoff expressed concerns during the recent Town Council meeting regarding the establishment and expansion of group homes within residential neighborhoods. Several residents, including Ed Calpasian from Fairfield Road, voiced their unease about the implications of a state mandate that permits the construction of group homes in residential zones. Calpasian argued that such facilities would be more appropriately placed in business districts or along county roads, rather than on small neighborhood streets. He highlighted the lack of community notification regarding the zoning changes. Another resident, identified as Don, shared his experience of discovering the sale of a nearby house for use as a group home only upon returning from a trip, criticizing the lack of transparency in the process.