Delanco Approves Bond Issuance for Street Sweeper

Overview: Delanco Town Council recently approved the issuance of $285,000 in bonds or notes for the financing of a new street sweeper. The adoption of the ordinance followed a public hearing in which the importance of placing signs and notifying the Department of Transportation was discussed, though concerns were raised about the absence of this information in the newsletter.

Pasack Valley School Board Debates Locker Room Renovations

Overview: In a recent Pasack Valley Regional High School District Board of Education meeting, significant time was dedicated to discussing the proposed renovations and new construction for the Pasack Hills locker rooms and Fieldhouse, with cost estimates and funding options being a major focus. The board acknowledged student achievements and provided opportunities for public participation, while also discussing other items including rising district costs and student civic engagement.

Ridgewood Village Council Addresses Infrastructure and Public Safety in Budget Meeting

Overview: The recent Ridgewood Village Council special public budget meeting focused on key infrastructure improvements and public safety enhancements, with notable discussions on the installation of a sidewalk on Clinton Avenue, restructuring of emergency services, sanitation and recycling budgets, and significant water rate increases due to infrastructure needs. The council addressed residents’ safety concerns, emergency management’s restructured services, and the water utility’s budget and rate hikes, outlining the strategic planning for the village’s future needs.

Jackson School Board Backs Bill for State to Cover Monitor Costs

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Jackson School Board addressed several issues, with the most pressing being the financial challenges faced by the district due to state funding cuts. The board expressed strong support for Bill A 3589, sponsored by Assemblyman Alex Siwicki, which would require the state to cover the expenses related to the appointment of a state monitor. This support was predicated on the recognition that the costs associated with state-appointed oversight should not fall on the local district. In addition to financial matters, the meeting covered topics ranging from student achievements to security concerns, including substance abuse and harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) incidents in schools.

Lake Como Explores Sale of Water and Sewer Utilities

Overview: The Lake Como Borough Council discussed a resolution to authorize engineering services for the potential sale of the borough’s water and sewer utilities, a move that has been under consideration for around a decade. Mayor Kevin Higgins outlined the history and reasons behind this step, noting the high cost of water for residents due to debt incurred from major investments in the water system post-Superstorm Sandy. The council appointed CME Associates to assess and evaluate the utilities as a first step toward a possible sale to a public utility company.