Westampton Town Council Celebrates Students’ Essays and Approves New Safety Measures

Overview: The recent Westampton Town Council meeting featured the recognition of student achievements in a Black History Month essay contest, discussions on public safety enhancements, and the approval of multiple resolutions, including a shared service agreement for fire investigations and the appointment of a school safety officer.

Egg Harbor Land Use Board Endorses Removal of Fast Food Restaurant Spacing Restriction

Overview: The Egg Harbor Land Use Board convened on February 17, 2026, to deliberate on several topics, the most prominent of which was the proposal to eliminate a city ordinance requiring a 1,000-foot separation between fast food restaurants. This decision is seen as a step toward promoting economic development and aligning with the city’s master plan.

Point Pleasant Beach Council Tackles Gazebo Regulations Amid Financial and Safety Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Point Pleasant Beach Borough Council, members tackled a range of issues, including the need for clearer regulations on gazebos, financial constraints impacting community projects, and safety concerns related to asbestos and lead paint in a municipally managed building. The council also addressed the aftermath of a severe storm, police staffing needs, and the ongoing development of meeting protocols.

Bloomington Port Authority Expands TIF Plan for Senior Housing and Approves Small Business Grants

Overview: The Bloomington Port Authority Commission meeting focused on developments, including the expansion of the American Square Tax Increment Financing (TIF) plan to accommodate new senior affordable apartments and the approval of a Small Business Assistance Grant Program to support local businesses impacted by recent challenges. These initiatives highlight the commission’s efforts to address both housing affordability and business sustainability within the city.

Fair Haven Planning Board Grapples with Fire Lane Compliance and Restaurant Seating Dispute

Overview: During the Fair Haven Planning Board meeting, a debate unfolded over the application for a restaurant on River Road, concerning the compliance of its fire lane with the 2018 International Fire Code. The restaurant, operating for several years with an outdoor café, sought relief from conditions established in a 2005 resolution, specifically pertaining to the fire lane designation and indoor seating capacity. The fire lane, originally required to be marked in the alley adjacent to the property, was found to be non-compliant with current fire safety standards, which mandate a minimum unobstructed width of 20 feet.