Bernards Town Council Approves Budget, Focuses on Community Safety

Overview: The recent Bernards Town Council meeting was primarily centered on the approval of the 2024 Municipal budget and the 2024 golf utility budget, with a notable tax rate decrease from the previous year. The budget, amounting to $46,252,800, includes provisions for three new full-time staff positions, an increase in the capital budget, and a focus on public safety with the anticipated addition to the police force. The council discussed the increase in interest on investments and deposits, an additional surplus of just under a million dollars as revenue for the year, and the importance of grants in saving money for the budget.

Bridgewater Town Council Discusses Gas Main Replacement Project Impact

Overview: In the latest Bridgewater Town Council meeting, the most significant topic up for discussion was the coordination of the Public Service Electric & Gas Company’s (PSE&G) ongoing gas main replacement project with the township’s infrastructure and road improvement plans. The project, part of PSE&G’s Gas System Modernization Program (GSMP), aims to upgrade the gas system to reduce methane emissions and enhance service reliability. The council also addressed concerns expressed over detour changes and road maintenance associated with the construction.

Franklin Planning Board Deliberates on Warehouse Project

Overview: The recent Franklin Planning Board meeting underscored concerns about a proposed warehouse project by Onyx 789 LLC, focusing particularly on traffic impact, site plan variances, and compliance with existing easement agreements. The Board granted a one-year extension to Executive Drive Investments but spent the bulk of the meeting deliberating over the warehouse development’s implications, emphasizing the need for detailed reviews and further information before proceeding.

Somerville Zoning Board Approves Historic Building’s Restaurant Renovation

Overview: The Somerville Zoning Board recently approved the renovation of a historic building for a new restaurant and bar, amidst discussions on a range of topics from parking spaces to the oversight of historic renovations. The high-end renovation project is set to include a mezzanine for additional dining, a centrally located bar, and jazz music performances. This decision came alongside the approval of another application seeking a parking space reduction for a residential property.

Bridgewater Planning Board Addresses Community Flood Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Bridgewater Planning Board grappled with community concerns over a proposed single-family dwelling construction on Chestnut Street that could potentially exacerbate existing neighborhood drainage issues. The proposal by an applicant, represented by attorney Michael Silbert, for minor subdivision approval and variance relief, raised substantive debate around the necessity of the subdivision, the impact on the existing dwelling on Lot 13, and the proposed improvements to the property. The meeting also featured discussions on the history of Bradley Gardens, property improvements, and adherence to zoning regulations.