Watchung Hills School Board Addresses School Bus Safety and Student Attendance Concerns

Overview: At the recent Watchung Hills School Board meeting, a standout issue was the discussion of a proposed regulation concerning student attendance, which drew public commentary due to its perceived inadequacy in addressing the needs of students with chronic illnesses.

Bernards Planning Board Tackles Tree Ordinance and Landscaping Plans

Overview: The Bernards Planning Board meeting held on June 18, 2024, delved into the intricacies of landscaping and tree ordinances. High on the agenda was the discussion of ordinance 2553, a significant amendment to the township’s tree removal and replacement code, alongside a careful review of the Fellowship Village landscape plan, which included debates over tree placement and fence extension requests.

Bridgewater Planning Board Addresses Subdivision Concerns and Extension

Overview: The Bridgewater Planning Board’s latest meeting centered on the request for a one-year extension of a previously approved four-lot subdivision, raising concerns among community members regarding communication, property impact, and environmental issues. The subdivision, initially approved in June 2023, faced delays due to state and county-level changes and adjustments within the applicant’s engineering team. The board granted the extension, advising affected residents to maintain well testing records and reach out to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for any contamination concerns.

Somerville Council Praises First Responders, Welcomes Therapy Dog

Overview: The Somerville Borough Council recently convened to address a variety of community matters, with attention given to the acknowledgment of first responders’ actions during a major fire incident and the introduction of a new therapy dog program. The meeting commenced with the Mayor and council members present.

Franklin Township Focuses on Environmental Impact in Development Projects

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Franklin Township Environmental Commission, the discussion centered on the environmental implications of local development projects, including proposed subdivisions and site plans, as well as the commission’s outreach efforts to promote energy efficiency among residents. The commission debated the potential impact of new developments on the neighborhood, the importance of native tree species in landscaping, and impervious surface coverage affecting stormwater management. Additionally, they addressed concerns about a local intersection’s traffic flow, flooding issues, and the community’s participation in energy efficiency initiatives.