Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Faces Criticism Over Police Profiling and Pride Flag Controversy

Overview: The Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council meeting on June 17, 2025, was marked by significant public concern regarding racial profiling by local police and the council’s decision not to fly the Pride flag during Pride Month. Residents expressed fears about discriminatory policing practices and disappointment over perceived neglect of the LGBTQ+ community, urging the council to address these issues more directly.

Rockaway Township Council Backs Land Conservancy’s Acquisition of Heler Tract for Preservation

Overview: The Rockaway Township Council convened in a special session to support a grant application by the Land Conservancy of New Jersey for acquiring the Heler Tract. This 123-acre parcel, crucial for preserving contiguous forest land, aims to enhance the Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area. Community members expressed unanimous support for the initiative, citing its environmental benefits and the importance of preserving local natural resources.

Morris Planning Board Advances Housing Plan Amid Subdivision and Compliance Discussions

Overview: The Morris Planning Board meeting focused on several critical developments, including the approval of a minor subdivision on Sussex Avenue, discussions on affordable housing obligations, and compliance issues with existing site plans. The board approved a subdivision application to divide a large property into two lots and addressed concerns about tree removal and environmental remediation. Additionally, the board adopted a fourth round housing element and fair share plan.

Morris Plains Residents Question Affordable Housing Plan and Planning Board Membership Changes

Overview: The Morris Plains Planning Board meeting was marked by discussions on the borough’s affordable housing strategy and changes in the planning board’s membership. Residents voiced concerns over the borough’s approach to meeting state-mandated affordable housing obligations and sought transparency regarding the removal of a board member, Ron Kelly, after he accepted a position at the community center. These two issues highlighted tensions around governance, transparency, and community engagement in local planning processes.

Hanover Township Proclaims Pride Month Amidst Discussions on Public Access and Safety

Overview: The Hanover Town Council convened on June 12, 2025, to discuss a range of issues, including the proclamation of June as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, the need for public access to critical planning documents, and various infrastructure updates aimed at enhancing community safety and engagement. Significant debate surrounded the accessibility of a crucial document related to a new law, with concerns about public availability and legal constraints dominating the conversation.