Lopatcong Planning Board Considers Cannabis Retail Proposal and Honors Late Planner

Overview: The Lopatcong Planning Board convened to discuss several issues, including a new ordinance permitting cannabis establishments in designated zones and honoring the late township planner, George Ritter. Additionally, the board began preparations for an updated affordable housing plan, reflecting ongoing compliance with state mandates.

Lopatcong Council Debates $10 Million PILOT Deal for Warehouse Redevelopment

Overview: The Lopatcong Town Council meeting on February 5, 2025, primarily focused on a proposed Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement for the redevelopment of the former Phillipsburg Mall site into a warehouse distribution center. The council deliberated on the financial implications, potential benefits, and community concerns surrounding the PILOT program, which is expected to generate more revenue than traditional taxation methods.

Lopatcong Planning Board Challenges State’s Affordable Housing Allocation, Citing Flawed Land Analysis

Overview: The Lopatcong Planning Board meeting on January 22, 2025, focused heavily on the township’s affordable housing obligations, with substantial discussions revolving around challenging the state’s allocation of 87 affordable housing units. The board argued that a reduction to approximately 70 units was feasible due to discrepancies in the state’s assessment of available land. This issue, intertwined with discussions on planning strategies and potential legal challenges, underscored the meeting’s significance.

Belvidere School Board Tackles Ethics, Celebrates Sports Achievements, and Addresses Community Engagement

Overview: The recent Belvidere School Board meeting on January 15, 2025, was a comprehensive session that covered a range of topics, including ethics training for board members, achievements in the school’s sports programs, and efforts to enhance community engagement.

Blairstown Township Grapples with Environmental Testing Costs as Internet Expansion Progresses

Overview: During the recent Blairstown Township Committee meeting, environmental testing costs and internet expansion were prominent topics. The council debated the financial implications of ongoing groundwater testing by GeoWorks, while also hearing from Robert Bole, CEO of Planet Networks, about progress in improving high-speed internet coverage in the area. The meeting also addressed various community issues, including affordable housing regulations and local elections.