Maplewood Council Adopts Key Zoning and Historic Preservation Amendments

Overview: At a recent Maplewood Town Council meeting, significant zoning ordinance amendments, including changes to historic preservation regulations and residential bulk requirements, were adopted after debate and public input. These changes are designed to protect the historical character of the community and manage the development footprint in residential areas. Additionally, the council addressed resident concerns regarding community safety and the potential impact of 24-hour businesses on local neighborhoods.

Maplewood Tackles Redevelopment and Public Safety in Council Meeting

Overview: The Maplewood Town Council covered important ground in its recent meeting, focusing on redevelopment plans, public safety, and community initiatives. Among the items discussed, the amendment to the Springfield Avenue Redevelopment Plan, concerns about teenagers smoking weed at Dehart Park, and the appointment of Lisa Cohen to the Arts Council stood out as significant.

Maplewood Tackles Rise in Burglaries and Traffic Violations

Overview: Maplewood Town Council’s recent meeting addressed a surge in nighttime burglaries, thefts, and traffic violations, alongside community concerns about dog-related issues and the recognition of police valor. Top on the agenda was the increase in thefts, particularly of high-end vehicles, and the council’s deliberation on measures to strengthen local security and engage with the community to prevent future incidents.

Maplewood Tackles Budget and Capital Improvements Amid Community Concerns

Overview: The Maplewood Town Council meeting addressed a series of pressing local issues, with a particular focus on the township’s budget and capital improvements. The council reviewed amendments to the 2024 municipal budget, including adjustments to revenues and appropriations, and discussed the issuance of bonds or notes to finance various township improvements. Moreover, the meeting featured discussions on a shared service agreement for a Greenway project, redevelopment area amendments, and a new code of conduct for youth activities. Concerns about parking lot conditions and environmental health, including noise complaints from Maplewood Beverage Packers and air quality issues, were also prominent topics.

Maplewood Considers Pioneering Storm Water Utility

Overview: The Maplewood Town Council recently convened to deliberate on a range of pressing municipal matters, with the potential establishment of a storm water utility dominating the agenda. The council’s discussions centered on improving the township’s storm sewer system’s capacity and efficiency in response to climate change. The proposal, presented by Arcadis representatives, highlighted Maplewood’s opportunity to become a model for other New Jersey municipalities. The council also debated the impact of proposed fees based on impervious surfaces, the equitable distribution of charges, and the implementation of a credit policy for property owners. Moreover, the plan for a storm water utility was not the only significant topic; the meeting addressed the recognition of Robert McCoy for his contributions to Maplewood’s sustainability, the establishment of Youth Week, the debate over a code of conduct ordinance, and a proposed ordinance to protect potential historic buildings from demolition.