Townsend Select Board Tackles Budget and Appointments

Overview: The Townsend Select Board meeting addressed several issues, with the most significant being the discussion about the fiscal year 2025 budget, which included the North Middlesex Regional School District’s decision to lower their assessment to Townsend by $629,500. This prompted a debate on the possibility of a reduced override and the need to balance the budget through cuts. The board decided to hold a special town meeting on August 20th to discuss revised budgets, ultimately voting to do so without proposing another override vote.

Atlantic County Board of Commissioners Addresses Fentanyl Crisis and Honors Late Community Leaders

Overview: The Atlantic County Board of Commissioners meeting focused on addressing the escalating fentanyl crisis, enhancing harm reduction campaigns, and recognizing late community leaders. The board also discussed the widespread availability of Naloxone, approved several key resolutions including infrastructure grants and public safety improvements, and presented scholarships to local students.

Little Egg Harbor School Board Tackles School Safety and Lunch Programs

Overview: The Little Egg Harbor School Board meeting addressed issues surrounding school safety, student nutrition, and policy updates, with discussions on the increasing number of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) incidents and the aim to extend the free and reduced lunch program to more students. The board also welcomed the interim superintendent, who expressed positive sentiments about the initial experience in the role.

Martin County School Board Approves New Start Times

Overview: In a recent Martin County School Board meeting, the board unanimously approved a proposal to adjust school start times for the 2024-2025 school year to comply with Florida statute. This change will see elementary schools beginning instruction at 7:40 a.m., middle schools at 9:20 a.m., and high schools at 8:30 a.m., allowing students to arrive 10 minutes later than in the previous year.

Howell Police Department Achieves Second Accreditation

Overview: In a display of commitment to public service and accountability, the Howell Town Council meeting on July 16, 2024, covered a range of topics, with the Howell Police Department’s second accreditation standing out. The meeting also saw discussions on the opioid settlement funds, the amendment of animal control ordinances, and public safety issues, alongside the celebration of Dakota Giordano’s volunteer work in substance use prevention and mental health awareness.