Highlands Borough Council Meeting Spotlights Police Chief’s Honor, Town’s Growth, and Infrastructure Achievements

Overview: At the recent Highlands Borough Council meeting, the community’s advancements and recognitions took center stage. Police Chief Robert Burton received accolades for his election as the 84th president of the Monmouth County Chiefs Association, making him the first from Highlands to hold this title. The town’s economic growth was underscored by a property valuation increase to over $1.1 billion and the opening of new businesses such as Beastro Iberia. Infrastructure projects like the Water Witch Pump Station and sewer improvements were noted successes. The return of the building department and municipal court to Highlands was marked, alongside the Bronze certification for the Green Team sustainable Jersey and aspirations for Silver certification.

Long Branch City Council Grapples with Pier Village 3 Audit Delays

Overview: In a recent Long Branch City Council meeting, residents learned of ongoing delays in obtaining CPA audits for Pier Village 3, raising concerns over accountability and financial transparency. Vincent LePore, a local resident, highlighted the administration’s extended timeline to fulfill his Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request, which now reaches a six-month delay. The audits are critical for verifying compliance with financial agreements tied to the urban renewal project’s Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program.

Matawan-Aberdeen School District Focuses on Student Achievement and Well-Being with New Initiatives

Overview: The Matawan-Aberdeen School District Board meeting on December 21, 2023, centered on the introduction of new educational programs, professional development for staff, and initiatives aimed at enhancing student achievement and social-emotional well-being.

Ocean Shade Tree Commission Addresses Tree Fund Usage, Ordinance Revisions, and Public Safety Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Ocean Shade Tree Commission, issues regarding public safety, budget allocations, and ordinance revisions took center stage. The commission discussed the usage of the Shade Tree Fund, the need for a structured community forestry management plan, and concerns over specific hazardous trees. Moreover, the meeting covered the revision of shade tree ordinances to align with the MS4 permitting process and the state’s proposed ordinance adjustments.

Ocean Township Environmental Commission Discusses Tree Ordinance, Impervious Coverage Regulations, and Green Initiatives

Overview: The Ocean Township Environmental Commission’s recent meeting focused on environmental policy discussions, including potential revisions to the tree ordinance, changes to impervious coverage regulations, and the commission’s ongoing green initiatives.