Hoboken School Board Faces 24.35% Tax Levy Increase in Tentative Budget

Overview: In a recent Hoboken Board of Education meeting, the board discussed a tentative budget for the 2024-2025 school year, which includes a significant tax levy increase of 24.35%. Superintendent Christine Johnson presented the budget, outlining the challenges and key factors contributing to the increase, including the implications of the S2 legislation, which resulted in a loss of almost $2.9 million in state aid over five years. Despite these losses, the district managed to maintain an average tax levy increase of 5.12% since the 2019-2020 school year. The current proposed increase reflects the end of S2 state aid cuts, the transfer of previously federally funded items back to the general budget due to the expiration of COVID grants, and costs associated with contracts, aging facilities, and enrollment growth.

St. Petersburg College Board Trustees Tackle Student Engagement and Fundraising

Overview: The St. Petersburg College Board of Trustees recently addressed initiatives to enhance student engagement and celebrated a record-breaking $12 million in fundraising efforts. The college’s strategic approach to improving academic and social support for students, which has shown a 10% improvement, was a focal point of the meeting. Alongside this, discussions about the First Time Titans program and the implementation of a buddy system revealed an 89% retention rate and underscored the importance of early engagement for student success. The board also discussed legislative updates, including a $80 million investment in the Florida college system from the state.

Englewood Council Prioritizes Health, Safety, and Community Unity

Overview: The Englewood City Council’s recent meeting addressed several issues, focusing on community health initiatives, public safety, and the promotion of unity within the community. Among the topics, the council’s discussions on funding and support for the Municipal Alliance stood out. This was followed by deliberations on budget allocations for the health department, with a stress on opioid addiction resources and the 2024 Municipal budget proposal. Public safety received attention with plans to introduce additional security measures in the South Dean Street Parking Garage and the installation of a charging station for electric garbage trucks. The meeting also highlighted the need for unity and respectful discourse in the community, with public comments expressing concerns over recent incidents of hate speech.

Mountainside School Board Faces Budget Challenges and Ethical Considerations

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Mountainside School Board grappled with budgetary challenges, including a 2% budget increase that results in a $418,000 tax levy increase for local residents. The board is considering various cost-cutting measures and a separate proposal to address the budget shortfall and maintain essential services. Furthermore, the board engaged in an intensive discussion regarding the ethical responsibilities of board members, particularly concerning social media use and the potential for conflicts of interest.

Ormond Beach Honors Local Heroes and Addresses Insurance Proposals

Overview: During a recent Ormond Beach City Commission meeting, community figures were honored, including Debbie Kruck-Forster, founder of Ormond Strong, who was presented with a key to the city for her work with military veterans and first responders. Additionally, Sergeant John Dovine and Sergeant Jay Brennan received Proclamations for their service in the Ormond Beach Police Department. Aside from the recognitions, the Commission engaged in a substantive discussion on the potential solicitation process for Property and Casualty Insurance, debating between issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) and appointing an agent or broker of record.