Westfield Town Council Plans for No Tax Increase in 2024 Budget

Overview: In a recent Westfield Town Council meeting, an overview of the 2024 Municipal and Capital budgets was presented, emphasizing the town’s strong financial position with a historic surplus and the notable achievement of setting a 0% tax rate increase for the upcoming year. The meeting covered a range of topics, including the award of a contract for a downtown strategic plan, the formation of a steering committee for Tamaques Park redesign, the recognition of high school sports teams’ achievements, and discussions on infrastructure and public safety investments.

Easthampton School Committee Approves FY2025 Budget Amid Concerns

Overview: The Easthampton School Committee approved the proposed fiscal year 2025 budget during a recent meeting, amidst vocal concerns from community members and parents regarding the adequacy of support for neurodivergent students, staff retention, and the overall well-being of students. The budget, amounting to $20,671,775, represents a 9.78% increase over the current year and aims to maintain level services for students despite financial challenges, including the expiring SR3 COVID relief funding.

South River Borough Council Addresses Community Concerns

Overview: In the latest South River Borough Council meeting, the council engaged in discussions on a variety of community concerns, including updates to local recreation fees, accessibility improvements, and amendments to special events permits. The council demonstrated responsiveness to public inquiries regarding road maintenance, water system transparency, and traffic safety. Additionally, discussions on the Human Relations Commission and the promotion of diversity became a focal point of the meeting.

Howell Zoning Board Grapples with School Expansion Plans

Overview: The Howell Zoning Board meeting centered around the application by Yeshiva Emch Hatara Inc for a use variance, preliminary and final major site plan, and major subdivision approval to construct a new school building and modify existing structures. The proposed development’s impact on infrastructure and the environment, particularly concerns regarding the septic system, landscaping plans, and potential runoff into a nearby waterway, dominated the discussions.

Brick Town Council Prioritizes Community Programs and Senior Services in 2024 Budget

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Brick Town Council focused on the township’s future, with a detailed presentation of the 2024 Municipal budget amounting to $17 million, a modest 1.9% increase from the previous year. The budget emphasizes the enhancement of community programs, senior services, and the continued success of the Parks and Recreation Department, which boasts a 133% increase in its budget. The meeting also highlighted the reduction of township debt by $3.7 million and addressed various community concerns, including the need for a pollution barrier along the Garden State Parkway and improvements in street lighting.