Franklin Commission Eyes Church Conversion and Environmental Initiatives

Overview: The Franklin (Somerset County) Environmental Commission recently discussed a series of significant proposals and initiatives that could shape the township’s environmental and community landscape. Among the topics, the proposal for an Evangelical Church Group (ECG) to convert a vacant building into a church drew attention alongside discussions on eco-friendly practices, community events, and infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing sustainability and public engagement in Franklin Township.

Somerville Zoning Board Meeting Focuses on Bank of America Site Upgrades and Appointment of Planner and Engineer

Overview: At the recent Somerville Zoning Board meeting, the board discussed a variety of matters including the swearing-in of new member Eric Alvarez and the election of Arthur Adair as chairman. Additional noteworthy topics included the proposed site upgrades for the Bank of America building and the appointment of Michael Cole as planner and engineer. The upgrades include new signage, HVAC equipment, and other site improvements, with discussions on the requested variances and design waivers. The appointment of Mr. Cole raised concerns about transparency and the impact on ongoing applications.

Bedminster Town Council Deliberates on Safety, Personnel Manual, and Community Projects

Overview: The Bedminster Town Council addressed a range of issues in their recent meeting, with the revision of the Personnel Manual and local safety concerns, such as the hazardous intersection at 206 and Lamington Road and guard rail extensions on Route 206, taking precedence. The council also discussed utility updates, community event planning, and administrative appointments, including the roles of Assistant Treasurer and Qualified Purchasing Agent.

Branchburg School Board Member Appointed Superior Court Judge

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Branchburg School Board, the community was informed of the departure of board member David Dugan, who has been confirmed as a Superior Court judge by the governor and the Senate. This change was announced alongside an appreciation for Dugan’s contributions and the notice that the process for filling the now-vacant seat would be forthcoming. Additionally, the meeting included Superintendent Karen Chase’s report on weather-related school disruptions, an initiative providing free breakfasts to middle school students through a New Jersey Farmers grant, and a public comment addressing the desire to evolve the student council into a more government-functioning body.

Franklin Township Trails Advisory Committee Elects New Chair and Discusses Comprehensive Trail Plan

Overview: In the recent Franklin Township Trails Advisory Committee meeting, progress was made in the reorganization of the committee and the advancement of the township’s comprehensive trails plan. Vanessa Jones was unanimously elected as the new chair for 2024, with Anarie Orlowski as vice chair and Chris Gonda as secretary. The committee’s meticulous work in updating the pathways and trails plan draft emerged as a focal point, with members reviewing and debating the inclusion of detailed descriptions of local flora and fauna, trail features, and potential health equity impacts.