Hillsborough Board Advances 88-Unit Affordable Housing Project

Overview: The Hillsborough Planning Board meeting focused on development projects, with the most newsworthy topic being the advancement of an 88-unit low to moderate income housing project at the Sherman Track. This project is a key component of the town’s affordable housing element and fair share plan, contributing 163 total credits towards these goals. The proposal, described as substantially conforming, required only a handful of waivers from the township’s Redevelopment plan, according to the project planner Christine Kone. The discussion also delved into the modifications of a building and its surrounding area by SI Middlesex Farms LP, addressing landscaping, stormwater management, and parking adequacy.

Watchung School Board Focuses on Building Improvements and Financial Stability

Overview: The Watchung School Board meeting addressed issues such as building improvements, financial stability, program restorations, and updates on shared services, policy changes, and community involvement. The most newsworthy elements of the discussion centered on the closure of school buildings for construction, the completion of building improvement projects, and the establishment of a sustainable financial foundation for future initiatives.

Bernards Zoning Board Grapples with Attorney-Witness Role Conflict

Overview: The Bernards Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting recently addressed a complex issue involving the role of an attorney as a witness in a legal proceeding, which led to a debate and required a recess to resolve the matter. This point of contention arose during the continuation of the Signature Acquisitions LLC case. The representative of Signature Acquisitions LLC challenged the participation of an attorney as a witness, stressing the importance of adhering to legal and professional conduct guidelines. The board’s lawyer advised against allowing lawyers to serve in dual capacities as advocates and witnesses, prompting the attorney in question to request a recess. Following the recess, it was determined that the attorney would not present any witnesses.

Somerville Debates Zoning Ordinance for Gun Stores

Overview: The Somerville Planning Board’s recent meeting sparked a discussion on the review and potential revision of zoning ordinances affecting the placement of gun stores within the borough. This issue emerged as the most significant topic, with board members and community participants debating the need for expert input, the challenges of defining “safe zones” around schools, and the broader implications for community development and revitalization. Additionally, there was a focus on the importance of transparency and public participation in the zoning process, as well as concerns raised by residents over the treatment of different types of businesses, especially those selling age-restricted goods.

Franklin Trails Committee Grapples with Trail Development Concerns

Overview: The Franklin Township Trails Advisory Committee focused on trail development and improvement, addressing public concerns, and reviewing the progress of the pathways and trails plan during their remote meeting on June 12, 2024. Key discussions included the Pathways and Trails Plan, the inclusion of a sidewalk along Trepo Road and Martino Drive, and the potential need for a bike path on Cedar Grove Lane. Other topics covered were the proposed extension of the bike path, a debate over a trail near a bird blind, and the potential construction of a path along Amwell Road.