Newark City Council Addresses Developer Fees and Homeless Services

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Newark City Council tackled a range of issues, with focus on the reduction of connection fees for developers and the management of services for the homeless population. The meeting delved into the concerns over infrastructure costs and the impact of fee reductions on development projects. Additionally, the council discussed the effectiveness of homeless services and the management of the Riviera Hotel, which has been a point of contention among residents.

Brick Town Adopts 2024 Municipal Budget Amid Public Concerns

Overview: In a recent Brick Town Council meeting, the adoption of the 2024 Municipal budget took center stage, sparking discussions and public concerns. The budget, which saw a decrease of over $1 million in the amount to be raised by taxes, alongside a 1.9% increase in the annual Municipal tax rate on the median assessed home, led to a variety of questions from residents and council members alike. The public hearing became a forum for voicing issues ranging from road safety to the clarity and accessibility of budget information, while the council addressed topics including the surplus funds, bonding practices, and the allocation for community policing.

Hatfield Select Board Tackles School Budget and Town Finances

Overview: The Hatfield Select Board meeting covered various fiscal challenges facing the town, with a emphasis on education spending, including a requested $200,000 increase for Smith Vocational School and a $225,000 deficit in the Food Service budget. The meeting also paid tribute to two long-standing public servants and tackled infrastructure issues like rainwater drainage and the use of ARPA funds.

Hopkinton School Committee Tackles Hayden Row Street Traffic Improvements

Overview: The Hopkinton School Committee recently convened to address several issues, with a major focus on proposed road and traffic improvements on Hayden Row Street, which are pivotal to enhancing safety and managing increased traffic flow due to school activities. The meeting, conducted partially remotely due to technical difficulties and the chairperson’s travel commitments, delved into the intricacies of the offsite traffic improvements needed at the intersection of the Marathon School driveway and Hayden Row Street.

Carlisle Select Board Tackles Fire Station Renovation and Road Maintenance

Overview: The Carlisle Select Board recently held a comprehensive meeting addressing several issues, with the primary focus on the fire station renovation and the town’s road maintenance plans. During the meeting, the board discussed various aspects of the fire station renovation, including the project’s goals and the importance of hiring an Owner’s Project Manager (OPM) to oversee the renovation. The board also debated the town’s approach to road maintenance, including emergency repairs and long-term planning for the town’s infrastructure.