Hackensack Approves $132 Million Budget Amid Concerns Over Rising Costs and Tax Exemptions

Overview: The Hackensack City Council meeting focused on the approval and introduction of budgetary measures, development projects, and community initiatives. The 2025 budget was introduced, revealing a total of $132,391,327 and a spending increase of $1.8 million or 1.3%. The budget discussions highlighted various fiscal challenges, including increased pension costs, health benefits, and the expiration of revenue from the American Rescue Plan. These factors contribute to a $700,000 tax levy increase, impacting residents with an average tax hike of $420 per home, combining municipal and school taxes.

Fairfax County Faces $121 Million School Budget Shortfall, Drastic Cuts Proposed

Overview: The Fairfax County School Board Budget Committee convened to address a daunting $121 million shortfall in the school system’s budget, one of the most substantial deficits in recent years. The proposed budget revisions include significant reductions in staffing and resources, with a focus on maintaining educational standards and essential services amidst financial constraints.

Cocoa Beach City Commission Appoints AJ Hudson as Acting City Manager Amid Retirement Transition

Overview: In a decision, the Cocoa Beach City Commission unanimously appointed AJ Hudson as the acting city manager following the retirement of the previous city manager on May 16th. This appointment comes as the city embarks on a formal search for a permanent replacement, a process expected to unfold over the next four to five months.

Chelmsford Select Board Discusses Greener Energy, School Roof Replacement, and New Town Manager

Overview: The Chelmsford Select Board meeting on May 19, 2025, focused on approving a greener electricity aggregation plan, signing the warrant for a special town meeting with key infrastructure projects, and finalizing the draft for the town manager appointment process.

District 300 School Board Approves New Collective Bargaining Agreement for 2025-2028

Overview: The District 300 School Board recently approved a new collective bargaining agreement for the 2025-2028 period. The agreement passed with a 6-0-1 vote after one board member abstained due to a potential conflict of interest. Additionally, the board approved a memorandum of understanding to extend another collective bargaining agreement by one year.