Summit City Council Tackles Homelessness Ordinance Amid Diverse Community Concerns

Overview: The Summit City Council meeting focused on several issues, including the introduction of a controversial ordinance on homelessness, discussions on public safety, and updates on community programs. The council addressed residents’ concerns about increasing property taxes, ongoing development projects, and the regulation of personal transportation devices. The council also highlighted efforts to reduce the school budget increase and discussed future community events.

Hillside School Board Faces $4 Million Budget Shortfall, Proposes Tax Increase

Overview: At a recent Hillside School Board meeting, the financial state of the district took center stage as Superintendent Erskine Glover detailed a budget shortfall of nearly $4 million. This financial gap results from a combination of a 3% decrease in state aid, amounting to a loss of approximately $1.1 million, and rising costs in salaries and special education services. To address this deficit, a 2% increase in taxes was proposed, which would only partially alleviate the shortfall by covering $620,000.

Berkeley Heights Residents Protest Water Drainage Issues Amid Zoning Board Deliberations

Overview: The Berkeley Heights Zoning Board meeting on March 27 was dominated by discussions surrounding water drainage issues related to property modifications, with residents expressing strong opposition to ongoing and proposed changes. The board reviewed multiple applications, focusing particularly on concerns about stormwater runoff and its impact on surrounding properties.

Hillside School Board Grapples with Budget Shortfalls Amidst Calls for Community Engagement

Overview: The recent Hillside School Board meeting was dominated by discussions on budgetary challenges, specifically a significant 3% reduction in state aid amounting to approximately $1.1 million. This financial blow exacerbates a pre-existing gap of nearly $4 million, intensified by rising expenses in teacher contracts, transportation, and special education services. The board is exploring a 2% tax increase to generate about $620,000, but this measure falls short of alleviating the financial strain.

New Providence School Board Honors Outstanding Educators and Approves Important Administrative Changes

Overview: The New Providence School Board meeting engaged in recognizing exceptional educators, approving changes to school administration, and discussing policy revisions. The board celebrated the achievements of the Teachers of the Year and approved a restructuring of administrative roles within the district, while anticipating upcoming budget discussions and policy implementations.