Cherry Hill School District Faces $4 Million State Aid Cut Amid Budget Concerns

Overview: The Cherry Hill School Board meeting grappled with a financial setback due to a $4 million reduction in state aid for the 2025-26 budget year. The budget, set at approximately $256 million, reflects a decrease of around $309,000 from the previous year, primarily driven by changes in state funding formulas and the loss of equalization aid. To offset the shortfall, the district is considering a 2% tax increase and utilizing an expiring bank cap of $1.3 million. These measures underscore the fiscal challenges facing the district as it attempts to align its budget with limited resources while maintaining essential educational services.

Collingswood School Board Tackles $3.6 Million Deficit with Borough Collaboration and September Referendum

Overview: The recent meeting of the Collingswood School Board focused on addressing a $3.6 million budget deficit through a collaboration with the borough and a proposed referendum in September. The partnership aims to mitigate the financial shortfall without imposing a long-term tax increase, while the referendum will seek community input on future funding strategies.

Gloucester Town Council Faces Scrutiny Over Development Plans on Protected Land

Overview: The Gloucester Town Council meeting sparked significant public concern as residents questioned the proposed construction of four large commercial buildings on land designated as a natural heritage site. With tensions high, the meeting addressed issues, including the implications of new ordinances, transparency in financial matters, and civic participation.

Merchantville Borough Council Faces Community Concerns Over Street Basketball Safety

Overview: The Merchantville Borough Council meeting addressed several community issues, the most significant being concerns over a portable basketball net placed on a neighbor’s property, which residents claim poses a safety hazard. Special recognition was given to two officers for life-saving actions, and the council considered new ordinances and community events.

Collingswood Council Faces Heated Debate Over School Budget Crisis and Proposed Tax Increase

Overview: The recent Collingswood Borough Council meeting was dominated by discussions over a proposed tax increase aimed at addressing a substantial shortfall in the local school district’s budget. The council faced public scrutiny over the decision to hire a consultant for budget oversight and the communication challenges with the school board, highlighting a division among residents about the best path forward for financial management and collaboration.