Long Branch City Council Debates Budget Cap Bank Ordinance

Overview: At the Long Branch City Council meeting on May 8, 2024, the most discussion centered around the adoption of Ordinance 08-24, which sought to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank. This ordinance would allow the city to increase its budget by up to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, exceeding the standard 2.5% cap, with the additional funds potentially used in the subsequent two years.

Bradley Beach Nominates New Chief of Police Amid Discussions on Municipal Management

Overview: Bradley Beach Borough Council announced the nomination of Captain James Ronald to the position of Chief of Police. The nomination stands out as a notable move in the borough’s law enforcement leadership, with council members acknowledging Captain Ronald’s extensive career and expressing unanimous support for his promotion. This appointment was just one of the many issues addressed in a meeting that also grappled with tree maintenance on Main Street and the introduction of the 2024 budget.

Howell Council Adopts Anti-Hate Measure, Opts Not to Take Direct Action on Pro-Palestine Billboard

Overview: During the recent Howell Town Council meeting, the primary focus was on the public’s response to a billboard with the message “Stand with Humanity, Stand with Palestine,” which sparked a heated discussion on anti-Semitism and freedom of speech. The council addressed this issue by amending a resolution that originally contained a clause about the billboard. The revised resolution condemned hate in all its forms without specifically mentioning the billboard, following disruptions and confrontations in the council room that led to a brief recess.

Belmar Borough Council Discusses Budget and Community Development

Overview: During the recent Belmar Borough Council meeting, the most pressing topic of discussion was the 2024 budget, which included a municipal tax rate increase and community development plans. The budget, structured to stay within state-mandated caps, addressed various challenges and financial considerations faced by the borough.

Tinton Falls Approves New Water Main, Residents Voice Concerns

Overview: The Tinton Falls Borough Council meeting on May 7th, 2024, was marked by a series of discussions and addresses that ranged from fiscal responsibility and infrastructure development to community concerns and public service appreciation. The most development from the meeting was the approval of a new water main construction and the discussion of a proposed restroom facility at Wardell Park. Residents also participated, expressing their concerns on various community and fiscal issues.