Hamilton Council Advances White Horse Fire Company Land Acquisition

Overview: In a recent Hamilton Town Council meeting, members discussed and progressed on a range of topics, from the White Horse Volunteer Fire Company land acquisition to the establishment of a new playground in memory of children lost to pregnancy complications. The council also tackled the intricacies of cannabis dispensary regulations, a debate over a contentious construction project, and concerns from the public on animal shelter operations and land use legislation.

Princeton School Board Evaluates State Assessment Results and Addresses Equity Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Princeton School Board focused heavily on the results of the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJ GPA) and the subsequent steps to support students who have not met graduation requirements. The board’s discussion encompassed a range of strategies to ensure that students across all demographics achieve the necessary literacy and math skills for graduation. Additionally, the board addressed community concerns regarding proposed middle school schedule changes and reviewed various committee efforts aimed at supporting student achievement and district planning.

Lawrence Town Council Considers Ranked Choice Voting

Overview: The Lawrence Town Council recently addressed the proposal of implementing Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) for municipal and school board elections, a system designed to provide voters with more choice and enhance the voting experience. This emerged as a point of interest, as a resident requested the council to consider a trigger ordinance that would facilitate a referendum, allowing voters to decide on the adoption of RCV. The proposal underscores the broader trend of RCV’s growing popularity across the United States.

Princeton Planning Board Navigates Tree Preservation and Development Concerns

Overview: In a recent Princeton Planning Board meeting, a proposed development on Witherspoon Street stirred a community response. Residents voiced their concerns about the impact on the local environment, specifically the fate of a mature magnolia tree and the changes to neighborhood character due to the project’s proximity to property lines. The applicant’s plans for a minor site development with a variance included adding an office space and a one-bedroom apartment, with a reduction in impervious coverage and the provision of bicycle parking. A lengthy debate ensued over whether to permit the removal of the tree, a decision complicated by its location on the property line and the potential damage from proposed construction activities.

Lawrence School Board Prioritizes STEAM and School Reconfiguration

Overview: The Lawrence School Board recently convened to discuss several topics, with the primary focus on enhancing STEAM education and reconfiguring the district’s school system. Notably, the Lawrence Township Education Foundation (LTEF) contributed a $35,500 grant from Bristol-Myers Squibb to advance STEAM initiatives. Additionally, the Superintendent outlined key goals for the upcoming academic year and presented the results of a community survey that will influence the district’s future, particularly regarding the reconfiguration plan for grade level bands and improvements to Lawrence Middle School.