Southampton Invests in Future with Senior Center and Infrastructure Plans

Overview: In a recent Southampton Select Board meeting, the most significant news came from the Council on Aging (COA), which received a substantial $2.4 million check from the state for the construction of a new Senior Center. This development addresses the COA’s previously highlighted challenges with technology and lack of programming space.

Flemington Borough Council Tackles Budget and Tax Rate Challenges

Overview: Amidst discussions of infrastructure projects and financial management, the Flemington Borough Council meeting centered on the issue of the 2024 budget and the accompanying tax rate debate. The council’s conversation was dominated by the introduction of a proposed 2.5% tax rate, set for further deliberation on March 25th. This decision comes in light of a projected new debt of approximately five million dollars, influenced by several upcoming projects, including police building improvements, a new fire truck, and extensive sewer and road work. The council grappled with balancing the need for these critical improvements against the desire to manage the tax burden on residents effectively.

South River Council Tackles School Bus Parking Issue

Overview: The South River Borough Council addressed a range of community and administrative issues during its latest session, with the introduction of a parking ordinance amendment for school buses in residential areas taking center stage. The council also introduced the municipal budget for the fiscal year 2024, and discussed various community events, departmental updates, and public concerns, including an increase in water rates balanced by a decrease in electric rates, and the progress of local infrastructure projects.

Washington Town Council Scrutinizes Budget, Tables Key Items

Overview: In a recent Washington (Bergen) Town Council meeting, attention was devoted to the 2024 budget with particular scrutiny on allocations for office supplies, postage, training, and computer services. The council engaged in discussions and made decisions on various line items. Notably, the council voted to reduce the postage budget by $700, impacting the distribution of township calendars, and considered a $300 cut in office supplies. Discussions were also robust around the necessity of budget reductions in areas such as books, subscriptions, and travel expenses.

Leesburg Commission Debates Downtown Arts Investment

Overview: The most significant topic discussed during the recent Leesburg City Commission meeting was the potential purchase of properties on West Main Street for the purpose of housing nonprofit arts organizations, including the Center for the Arts and the Melon Patch. The city manager presented the case for this $2,395,000 investment, which he argued would support the arts, revitalize downtown, and address blight issues without incurring debt for the city. This investment was part of a larger proposed expenditure of $3.445 million, which included the cost of a new parking garage. The discussion was comprehensive, covering financial allocations, budgeting approaches, and the impact of COVID-19 on revenue projections.