Bernards Planning Board Tackles Landscaping and Lighting Issues

Overview: The Bernards Planning Board meeting was marked by discussions revolving around landscaping and lighting compliance issues on a property, specifically concerning the placement of trees and the adequacy of screening for neighboring homes. The board grappled with discrepancies over the extension of a fence and the adequacy of plantings that were part of a resolution dating back to 2016. The matter of insufficient screening from Mrs. Pinson’s house, both during the day and at night, was debated, with suggestions for planting taller trees and concerns regarding the glare from lights. A decision was made to continue the discussion at a later date, with a proposed meeting set for May 21st, where a consultant is expected to assess the lighting situation.

Franklin Committee Tackles Open Space Budget and Maintenance Concerns

Overview: The Franklin Open Space Advisory Committee recently held a meeting where the primary focus was the financial management and maintenance of the town’s open spaces. An in-depth analysis of the open space trust fund budget was conducted, revealing a discrepancy between the revenue collected and the costs associated with maintaining open space properties. Members examined tax revenue collected from 2016 to 2024, which totaled $50,823,000, with salary charges accounting for 6.94% of this revenue. The maintenance costs were noted to far exceed the funds allocated to the open space trust.

Bedminster Council Addresses Fire Safety and Infrastructure Upkeep

Overview: The Bedminster Town Council meeting on April 15, 2024, concluded with a discussion on recent emergency responses, public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community welfare. The council commended the swift action of the Far Hills Bedminster Fire Department in handling a significant fire incident on April 5, which led to the containment of the blaze and limited damage thanks to the collaborative efforts of mutual aid partners. The meeting also delved into the effectiveness of the water supply and condition of fire hydrants, issues with property legislation, and the introduction of new ordinances aimed at updating the town’s policies on storm water management and budget appropriations.

Franklin Township Reviews Warehouse Development and Environmental Initiatives

Overview: The Franklin Township Environmental Commission recently convened to address several issues, with the foremost being a contentious site plan application for a new warehouse. This proposed development has sparked considerable debate due to environmental concerns such as increased truck traffic, stormwater runoff, and the planned removal of 126 trees. Despite a reduction in the warehouse’s proposed size, the number of trees to be removed has not changed, maintaining the commission’s opposition due to potential environmental degradation.

Somerville Adopts Amended Budget, Addresses Public Safety Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Somerville Borough Council adopted an amended 2024 Municipal budget, addressed public safety concerns including the opening of a new gun store, dealt with local traffic and parking issues, and supported community projects led by the Boy Scouts.