Hillside Board Approves $75 Million Budget, Focuses on Security Upgrades

Overview: The Hillside School Board has approved a $75 million operating budget for the upcoming year without raising the local tax levy. The meeting addressed significant investments in district security technology, including the installation of 60 new cameras, and the training of school security personnel. The approved budget reflects an increase in state aid and federal funding, allowing for the expansion of educational programs and the upgrade of facilities without additional cost to taxpayers.

Fair Lawn School Board Addresses Student Safety and Equity Initiatives

Overview: The Fair Lawn School Board focused on student safety concerns and recognition of equity initiatives during its latest meeting. Topmost on the agenda was the issue of pedestrian safety around Forest Elementary School, highlighted by residents’ reports of a recent traumatic accident involving students. Additionally, Fair Lawn High School’s participation in the “No Place for Hate” program, in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League, was acknowledged, with the school set to be honored for fostering a safe and inclusive environment. The board also entertained the idea of monthly work sessions to enhance decision-making efficiency but reached no definitive resolution on implementing them.

Cranbury Board Reviews Site Plan Amid Traffic and Environmental Concerns

Overview: The Cranbury Planning Board’s latest meeting was marked by rigorous examination of a major site plan proposed by Sheri Estates LLC for the property at two Brickyard Road. The plan included conversations about property usage, parking space adequacy, potential traffic increase, environmental assessments, and the realignment of Brickyard Road, which raised concerns about traffic flow and safety. Additionally, the board discussed a new ordinance regulating the storage of salt and deicing materials, touching upon the prohibition of outdoor storage to align with the master plan.

Lopatcong Council Adopts Zoning and Safety Measures

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Lopatcong Town Council adopted ordinances, including the amendment of zoning regulations to facilitate residential expansions and the establishment of a purchasing agent position. They also addressed public safety concerns, with reports from the police on traffic and the fire department on response times.

Palm Beach School Board Tackles Education Legislation Impact

Overview: The Palm Beach County School Board recently convened to discuss wide-ranging topics, with a particular focus on the repercussions of newly passed legislation on the district’s operations and educational programs. The meeting’s central discussion revolved around the legislative wrap-up for the 2024 regular session, presented by Chief of Staff Jamie Wyatt and colleagues. The board dissected the impact of an approximately $1.8 billion increase in the total education budget, equating to a 6.73% hike over the previous year, and the implications of changes in base student allocation (BSA) funding. The increased budget includes specific provisions for school safety, mental health, and teacher salaries, as well as classroom supply assistance.