River Edge School Board Addresses Child Care Program Concerns and Budget Challenges

Overview: The recent meeting of the River Edge School Board was marked by community concerns over the alphab best before and after care program and discussions on financial challenges posed by rising health benefit costs and roof replacement bids. The Board also engaged in the superintendent search process, approved grants, and discussed upcoming school events and activities.

Sussex County Tackles Broadband and Healthcare Expansion

Overview: The Sussex County Board of Commissioners addressed a range of issues in their March 27th, 2024 meeting, emphasizing the county’s infrastructure, healthcare services, and the conduct of public officials. Significant discussions centered around efforts to improve local broadband access, the opening of a new psychiatric care facility, and troubling allegations against a university president. Additionally, the meeting saw the adoption of the amended 2024 budget, the approval of bond ordinances for county improvements, and the establishment of rules for public meeting conduct.

Holliston School Committee Faces $1.1 Million Budget Shortfall

Overview: The Holliston School Committee recently addressed a critical $1.1 million budget shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year. The gap has prompted a series of discussions on potential cost reductions, including staff cuts that may range from $400,000 to $500,000, and the exploration of alternative revenue sources. The committee is grappling with the financial challenges while prioritizing the educational needs of the district’s students, such as advocating for the addition of a full-time equivalent board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) to support student mental health and behavioral issues.

Amherst Town Council Tackles Hate Speech and Disruptions

Overview: The Amherst Town Council recently convened to address a variety of issues facing the community, most notably the challenges of managing hate speech and disruptions during public meetings. The council debated approaches to balancing the enforcement of civility with the protection of First Amendment rights.

Brevard TDC Approves Funding for Culture and Sports, Eyes Lagoon Preservation

Overview: The Brevard County Tourism Development Council (TDC) has approved significant funding measures aimed at bolstering local cultural events and sports while also addressing environmental concerns related to the Indian River Lagoon. Key decisions at the recent meeting included the allocation of $500,000 for the lagoon’s grant program, the approval of up to $65,000 for the 2024-2025 cultural event grant program, and the endorsement of changes to the 2024-2025 Sports Grant guidelines, including a new tier for year-round funding.