Hackensack City Council Tackles Budget and Community Projects

Overview: In a recent Hackensack City Council meeting, discussions were heavily focused on the 2024 Municipal budget, which proposed a 5.3% spending increase to $128,590,000. The budget was a central topic due to the significant rise in health benefits and insurance costs by $7.3 million, prompting city officials to make cuts elsewhere without reducing services. The tax levy is set to increase by 3.1%. This tax adjustment is a strategic response to balance the budget while addressing increased expenses, particularly in health benefits, which have been a key driver in the budget’s formulation.

Ocean School Board Addresses Lunch Costs and School Safety

Overview: The most recent meeting of the Ocean County School Board focused primarily on the budget, with discussions concerning school lunch prices, safety grant applications, and updates on the Spartan Buddies program at Wayside School.

Millburn Town Zoning Board Approves Variances for Residential and Dental Office Developments

Overview: The Millburn Town Zoning Board meeting addressed a series of applications for variances, resulting in the approval of residential additions for growing families, the reorientation and modification of a property to enhance functionality and aesthetics, and the change of use for a property transitioning from an automotive office to a dental practice.

West Orange School Board Addresses Library Staff Cuts and Celebrates Student Achievements

Overview: At the recent meeting of the West Orange School Board, the potential reduction of library media specialists within the district’s schools emerged as a primary concern among community members, while the district’s students were recognized for their legislative advocacy. The meeting also featured the presentation of a signed bill by Governor Phil Murphy to the West Orange High School Youth Advisory Board and discussions on school funding and personnel retirements.

Cinnaminson Advances Pedestrian Safety Project on Route 130

Overview: Cinnaminson Town Council discussed a significant pedestrian and bicycle safety improvement project along Route 130, with an estimated cost of $7.5 million. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) presented a concept development study aimed at addressing the high rate of pedestrian crashes in the area.