Lopatcong Board Addresses Zoning and Land Use Ordinances

Overview: In a recent Lopatcong Township Planning Board meeting, members deliberated on significant zoning and land use matters that may reshape local properties and affect residential expansion. The board reviewed and recommended two ordinances for council consideration, focusing on the vacation of a “paper street” and amendments to zoning regulations to permit non-intensifying residential expansion.

Blairstown Town Council Tackles Wildlife Habitats and Infrastructure

Overview: In the recent Blairstown Town Council meeting, discussions revolved around significant local developments, including the encouragement of wildlife habitats, impending community events, and the need for infrastructure improvements. Of particular interest was the detailed presentation by Jennifer Kral from the Warren County Land Preservation Committee on creating certified wildlife habitats in the area. This emphasis on native plants and ecosystem balance sparked a broader conversation on sustainable practices within the community.

Phillipsburg Council Tackles Budget and Community Projects

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Phillipsburg Town Council, discussions centered around community projects and municipal budget concerns. The council addressed the progress of the Cal Ripken Senior Foundation project, which is close to reaching its funding goal, and debated various ordinances impacting the town’s future. Notably, there was a debate on the municipal budget, touching on tax increases and the reorganization of services, alongside public concerns regarding the planning of new sports facilities and municipal hiring freezes.

Lopatcong Council Addresses Budget Concerns and Public Safety Enhancements

Overview: The Lopatcong Town Council, in their latest meeting, focused on the 2024 budget discussion, with attention paid to the local share tax increase, capital improvements, and public safety enhancements, including police department expansions and traffic safety measures. Despite a projected 2.2-cent increase in the local share tax, equating to an additional $51 annually for taxpayers, the council expressed the need for careful budget management to recover fund balance from the previous year.

Belvidere School Board Addresses Subcontracting Concerns and Budget

Overview: The Belvidere School Board’s recent meeting centered on discussions about the potential subcontracting of positions within the district, unexpected increases in state aid that positively affected the budget, and the acknowledgment of several community and student achievements. The board addressed community concerns regarding the impact of subcontracting on the local community and employees. No final decision had been made, and the board showed its openness to further discussions. The financial outlook for the district was notably improved with an increase in state aid and preschool budget, enabling the reversal of prior potential cuts and the addition of new staff positions.