Somerville Borough Council Discusses Affordable Housing Amidst Calls for Greater Community Involvement

Overview: During the recent Somerville Borough Council meeting, the primary focus was on affordable housing as the council prepared to enter an executive session to discuss compliance with new state-prescribed housing methods. Members of the public expressed strong support for affordable and low-income housing initiatives. One resident, Ben Parker, underscored the necessity of such measures by sharing personal experiences and emphasizing the importance of affordable housing for community workers, including those in the school system and service industries.

Hillsborough Planning Board Faces Strong Opposition to Proposed Warehouse Development

Overview: During the recent Hillsborough Planning Board meeting, a proposed warehouse development by Weston Road LLC faced significant backlash from both public officials and residents. The meeting, which was marked by discussions and public comment, centered around the potential negative impacts of the warehouse on the local community, particularly the nearby Hearthstone community, a 55-plus residential area.

Franklin (Somerset County) Zoning Board Grants Religious Organization’s Zoning Extension Amid Leadership Changes.

Overview: The Franklin Zoning Board approved a one-year extension for Sai Data, a religious organization that plans to construct a house of worship. The extension was necessary due to delays related to leadership changes and engineering issues. The board also carried forward a major site plan application for a four-story apartment building to March 2025.

Franklin Trails Advisory Committee Endorses Cost-Effective Fencing for Verizon’s Cell Tower

Overview: The Franklin Trails Advisory Committee, in its recent meeting, approved Verizon Wireless’s request to replace a composite fence with a chain link fence around a cell tower due to cost considerations. This decision, which followed assurance from the Environmental Commission and acknowledgment of the site’s limited public visibility, marked a step by the committee to balance cost efficiency with environmental aesthetics.

Franklin Planning Board Tackles Affordable Housing Challenges Amid Redevelopment Study

Overview: The Franklin Planning Board convened on January 8, 2024, focusing on affordable housing obligations and potential redevelopment areas in the township.