Tenafly Council Debates Budget and Capital Allocations Amid Fiscal Challenges

Overview: In a recent Tenafly Borough Council meeting, discussions were dominated by fiscal management and resource allocation topics, with attention given to budget adjustments, the use of surplus, and the allocation of funds for various departmental needs including capital projects and equipment.

Newbury Explores Space Needs for Community Services

Overview: In a recent Newbury Select Board ad hoc committee meeting, one notable issue discussed was the need to identify and secure adequate space for community services, particularly for the Council on Aging. The committee is exploring various options, including potential new locations for upgraded facilities, as they find current accommodations increasingly insufficient for the town’s needs.

Watchung School Board Approves Tentative Budget Amid Financial Challenges

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Watchung School Board addressed financial challenges, approving a tentative budget that seeks to support educational initiatives and restore previously cut programs and positions. The approval is a preliminary step, as the budget must be sent to the county executive for final authorization. The board discussed a variety of topics, including the necessity of using bank cap authority, the compressed timeline of budget development, the restoration of various programs, and the introduction of a new School Resource Officer.

Fall River Preservation Efforts: Funding Decisions and Emergency Grants

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Fall River Community Preservation Committee focused on allocating funds for various preservation projects, with a portion of the discussion centering on the Christ of Rock Church repairs and the Children’s Museum renovation. The committee allocated $100,000 for the church tower repairs, less than the requested $250,000, and $250,000 for the Children’s Museum, less than the requested $385,000. Additionally, the meeting addressed other projects, such as the Union Belt renovation and the Fall River School Department improvements, and concluded with the approval of a $50,000 emergency funding request.

Berkeley Heights Focuses on Environmental Protection and Education

Overview: In the latest meeting of the Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission, emphasis was placed on invasive species, stormwater management, tree protection, recycling initiatives, and community education. The commission tackled the problem of non-native jumping worms and their impact on the local ecosystem, reviewed property plans with an eye on stormwater retention, discussed the intricacies of the tree ordinance, and planned future community clean-up events and educational outreach.