Miami Lakes Public Safety Committee Plans Law Enforcement Appreciation Month

Overview: In a recent Miami Lakes Public Safety Committee meeting, members approved a motion to establish an annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Month in May, setting in motion a series of related initiatives. The meeting, which covered a range of topics from community safety to honoring first responders, focused on fine-tuning the details of the appreciation month, including the design of a card and signage, budget allocations, and event planning.

River Edge Council Advances Cannabis Ordinance Amid Public Inquiry

Overview: At the latest River Edge Borough Council meeting, the council members moved forward with discussions on Cannabis regulation, including taxation, licensing, and establishing a Cannabis overlay zone.

Brick Town Council Prioritizes Community Programs and Senior Services in 2024 Budget

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Brick Town Council focused on the township’s future, with a detailed presentation of the 2024 Municipal budget amounting to $17 million, a modest 1.9% increase from the previous year. The budget emphasizes the enhancement of community programs, senior services, and the continued success of the Parks and Recreation Department, which boasts a 133% increase in its budget. The meeting also highlighted the reduction of township debt by $3.7 million and addressed various community concerns, including the need for a pollution barrier along the Garden State Parkway and improvements in street lighting.

Vernon Council Greenlights Tax Exemption and Roadway Project

Overview: The Vernon Town Council recently held a meeting that resulted in the approval of a long-term tax exemption for the O’Neal Group Vernon One Urban Renewal LLC, and the support of a New Jersey Department of Transportation roadway improvements project for Route 94. The tax exemption sparked debate among the public and council, with concerns raised about its 30-year term and the exclusion of sewer service fees. However, after reassurances from the O’Neal Group representative and the town’s Redevelopment Council, emphasizing the financial viability and positive revenue impact for the town, the ordinance was approved. The council also showed support for the roadway project, with assurances that the state may handle police support during the implementation.

Freetown Board Grapples with Zoning Changes for Housing

Overview: The Freetown Board of Selectmen’s latest meeting focused on a transformative zoning proposal which could pave the way for the development of up to 750 housing units to align with state requirements for MBTA communities. This profound change targets the Puma District and raises pivotal questions about the town’s capacity, infrastructure, and community identity. The board scrutinized the amendments, which aimed to comply with the Commonwealth’s benchmarks, including multifamily housing at 15 units per acre over 50 acres, and deliberated over the impact on local resources, such as sewer and water systems, as well as schools and emergency services.