Paterson Council Meeting Debates Police Recruitment, Employee Raises, and Community Trust

Overview: In a recent Paterson City Council meeting, discussions ranged from police recruitment and employee pay raises to community tensions and historical preservation.

Amherst Town Council Faces Intense Debate Over Education Funding and Public Art Allocation

Overview: At the recent Amherst Town Council meeting, impassioned debates unfolded over topics, notably the allocation of funds to local schools and the implementation of the “percent for art” bylaw for the new Fort River Elementary School. As council members deliberated, residents voiced strong concerns, particularly about the impact of budget cuts on special education services and the appropriate funding for public art projects.

Cranbury Township Committee Approves 2025 Budget Without Tax Increase Amid Detailed Discussions on Art Installations and Police Operations

Overview: The Cranbury Township Committee meeting resulted in the approval of the 2025 municipal budget with no tax increase, highlighting the township’s efforts to maintain financial stability amidst rising costs. The meeting also addressed various community projects, including a proposed sculpture by the Helen Cody Foundation, police department resource challenges, and the installation of chess tables.

Bridgewater Council Faces Scrutiny Over Budget Delays and Emergency Funding Practices

Overview: The Bridgewater Town Council meeting addressed issues surrounding budget delays, emergency funding practices, and a heroic act by a local police officer. The council faced criticism from residents for not meeting state budget submission deadlines and relying heavily on temporary emergency authorizations, which some attendees argued reduced public input on financial decisions. Additionally, the council celebrated local emergency services’ contributions, particularly Officer Allot’s bravery in a recent gas tanker accident, and discussed plans for the town’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

Taylor County Board Faces Tough Budget Cuts Amidst Historic Preservation Debate

Overview: The Taylor County Board of Commissioners meeting was marked by discussion of the proposed fiscal year 2025-2026 budget, with attention on potential reductions in funding for various departments, including a proposed 15% cut to the Sheriff’s Department.