Bethlehem Town Council Approves Pension Valuation Change

Overview: The Bethlehem Town Council recently convened to discuss and vote on several financial measures that could impact the city’s budget and services. Among the most items was the request to change the valuation method used for determining the city’s obligation to the fire and police pension funds. The council approved the shift from the market valuation method to the smoothing method for the upcoming two years, a decision aimed at creating a more stable and manageable financial obligation for the municipality.

Readington School Board Addresses Budget, Personnel Changes, and Board Member Resignation

Overview: The Readington School Board recently convened to tackle various issues, including the detailed presentation of the 2024-2025 school year budget, the resignation of board member Christina Napoli, and the appointment of Dr. Jonathan Moss as the new principal of Hollen Brook School. The meeting, which spanned several departments and initiatives, also included discussions on conflicts of interest, the ethics commission’s advisory opinion, and the proposed expansion of the district’s solar energy systems.

Madison Borough Council Advances EMS Program and Green Infrastructure Initiatives

Overview: In a recent Madison Borough Council meeting, substantial progress was made on several fronts, including the advancement of the new EMS program and discussions on green infrastructure to address stormwater management. The meeting also honored community members, addressed public safety, and delved into the upcoming budget, among other topics.

West Windsor-Plainsboro School Board Grapples with Budget Challenges and Safety Concerns

Overview: In a recent West Windsor-Plainsboro School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. David Aderhold and board members engaged in discussions about the district’s financial challenges for the 2024-2025 fiscal year and community concerns regarding student safety. The meeting was marked by conversations on the budget, with attention given to the impact of increasing costs on the district’s financial health. Additionally, the board responded to community input on the need to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety around schools.

Cocoa Beach Pension Board Analyzes Fund Performance and Actuarial Assumptions

Overview: The Cocoa Beach Pension Board recently engaged in discussions regarding the performance of the pension fund, the sale of Sterling Capital to Guardian Group, and the actuarial assumptions critical to the city’s defined benefit pension plan. The board reviewed a solid 9.4% increase in the pension fund’s performance and the stability of the actuarial rates, acknowledging the need to manage the plan’s health without additional tax burdens.