Franklin Township Faces Community Backlash Over Warehouse Proposal

Overview: The Franklin Township Environmental Commission meeting covered a wide range of topics, but the most contentious issue was a proposed warehouse development by Onyx on Old New Brunswick Road. The proposal has triggered community opposition, primarily due to environmental concerns linked to nearby Buckeye pipelines. The development is planned close to pipelines carrying diesel and gasoline, raising fears of potential environmental hazards and echoes of past incidents, such as a significant leak in Bucks County and an explosion in Edison.

Somerville Borough Council Discusses School Funding Referendum and Community Safety Initiatives

Overview: The Somerville Borough Council meeting held a discussion on the upcoming Board of Education referendum scheduled for March 11, 2025, emphasizing infrastructure improvements and community involvement. In addition, the meeting addressed pressing community safety concerns, particularly pedestrian safety at a high-accident intersection near the middle school.

Franklin School Board Meeting Addresses Dance Team Funding and Allegations Against Coach

Overview: The recent Franklin School Board meeting focused on issues, including the recognition and funding of the Franklin High School competitive dance team and serious allegations against a basketball coach. Parents and students advocated for greater support for the arts, while others demanded action regarding the coach’s conduct. The board also discussed budgetary challenges and celebrated various student and community achievements.

Bernardsville Planning Board Clarifies Conditions for Local Café Amidst Key Decisions

Overview: In a recent Bernardsville Planning Board meeting, significant modifications were made regarding conditions for a proposed café, including parking arrangements and delivery schedules. The meeting also addressed a memorialization of a high school capital project and resolved a procedural matter due to a court order.

Franklin Library Board Considers Renovations to Adapt to Modern Needs

Overview: During the Franklin Library Board meeting, discussions centered around potential renovations to the library to better align with current user needs. One of the board members proposed reconfiguring the layout of the West Wing to accommodate changes in how patrons use the library. With fewer people using public computers and more bringing personal devices, there is a growing demand for quiet, isolated spaces. The proposed changes also include enlarging the historical room and consolidating existing desks to reduce noise disturbances. To explore these changes, the board considered hiring an architect to develop conceptual designs.