River Edge Discusses Budget Challenges and Financial Planning

Overview: In a recent River Edge Borough Council meeting, the main agenda was a discussion on the 2024 operational budget, which presented a complex financial picture marked by a 5.55% increase. The budget challenges faced by the municipality were outlined, with major drivers including increased costs in police salaries, employee health insurance, Social Security, landfill fees, and liability insurance. The council also discussed the anticipated bill from Hackensack Paramus for sewer charges and the separate bill for a portion of the town not covered by the Bergen County Utility Authority (BCUA), contributing to a total wastewater budget of approximately $1.6 million. A significant increase in legal services by $225,000 and other notable hikes in recycling costs and finance salaries prompted detailed exploration and debate among council members.

Amherst Council Advances Track Project Amid Funding Concerns

Overview: In a development during the Amherst Town Council meeting, members voted to approve the reauthorization of a $1.5 million Regional School debt for a track project at the Amherst Regional High School. The project, which has been a topic of much debate, includes several options ranging from maintaining the current track to relocating and expanding it with various infield choices. The decision to recommend reauthorizing the debt was not without its concerns; councilors expressed reservations regarding the uncertainty of the final project, long-term maintenance, funding sources, stormwater drainage, and the alignment with the Athletic Facility strategic plan. Despite these issues, the council moved forward with the recommendation, noting that failing to reauthorize the debt would result in the loss of funds from both the regional school budget and the town’s capital budget.

Acton Select Board Advances Dam Safety and Economic Development

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Acton Select Board addressed a number of issues, with a particular focus on community safety, economic development, and town governance. The meeting featured a discussion on the future of the Bellows Farm Mill Dam, the approval of a tax incremental financing plan for a local business, and the complexities surrounding the management of a special town meeting.

South Orange-Maplewood School Board Approves $30 Million Bond for School Renovations

Overview: The South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting resolved with the approval of a $30 million bond for renovations at South Orange Middle School and Columbia High School. The bond, which faced detailed scrutiny and required a revised draft, aims to address significant capital projects including the contentious installation of artificial turf on Ritzer Field, and concerns about the functionality of an elevator at Columbia High School.

Blandford Select Board Tackles Town Infrastructure and Economic Development

Overview: The Blandford Select Board recently convened to address a series of issues facing the town, ranging from infrastructure improvements to economic development initiatives. Among the topics discussed were the water department’s tree removal request, a student’s toll booth proposal for economic growth, concerns about property on Hayden Road, and the ongoing shared fire services collaboration. The board also tackled the town meeting warrant articles, which included discussions on budgetary allocations, the Eversource vegetation management plan, and zoning bylaws amendments.