Little Falls Town Council Discusses Affordability Assistance Grant, Prepares for Holiday Events

Overview: At the recent Little Falls Town Council meeting, the council passed several resolutions including one authorizing an affordability assistance grant aimed at supporting residents in need of housing aid. The council also discussed upcoming holiday events and snowstorm preparations, emphasizing community engagement and safety.

Highland Park School Board Grapples with Low Math Scores and Curriculum Challenges

Overview: During the latest Highland Park School Board meeting, discussions were dominated by concerning trends in student math performance, particularly at the middle school level, and the district’s response through new curriculum pilots. The board focused on the stark decline in math scores, notably among middle school students, where only 7% to 20% met a 60% benchmark, a significant drop from the previous year’s 28% to 61%. Board members and community participants speculated on potential causes, including previous teacher turnover and a need for curriculum reassessment.

Rutherford Borough Council Secures $664K Grant for Union Avenue and West End Enhancements

Overview: During the Rutherford Borough Council meeting on December 22, 2025, the council announced they had secured a $664,000 grant from the NJOT to enhance Union Avenue and the West End. The grant, obtained with the assistance of Bruno and Associates, was highly competitive, with only 43 out of 67 applications being approved. It aims to improve streetscape and pedestrian safety in the area. However, the planning process for these improvements is expected to take about two years before visible changes are realized. Community involvement was vital during the application process, and the council expressed gratitude for the supportive collaboration with grant writers and residents. They plan to continue involving community members with relevant experience to ensure the project’s goals are met inclusively.

Edison Residents Challenge Proposed 32% Mayoral Salary Increase Amid Economic Concerns

Overview: During a recent Edison Town Council meeting, debate ensued over a proposed 32% salary increase for Mayor Sam Joshi. The proposal, which would elevate the mayor’s salary to exceed that of the New Jersey governor, drew widespread criticism from residents and council members alike. Concerns were raised over the appropriateness of the increase, with calls for the raise to be deferred until the next mayoral term beginning in 2030.

Natick School Committee Explores Budget Adjustments and Vocational School Admissions Challenges

Overview: The recent Natick School Committee meeting tackled several issues, including critical budget adjustments for the fiscal year 2027 and the challenges faced by students applying to vocational-technical schools. The budget discussion highlighted a need for financial adjustments to maintain educational quality while addressing rising costs. Concurrently, the committee examined the vocational school admissions process and the limited availability of spots for Natick students, sparking concerns about equitable access to educational opportunities.