Oronoco Parks & Trails Committee Approves Prescribed Burn Plan and Considers Park Enhancements

Overview: During the Oronoco Parks & Trails Committee meeting, members approved a prescribed burn plan and explored numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing the town’s parks. The committee focused on environmental management through controlled burns, strategic park improvements, and community engagement activities.

Liberty County School Board Explores Shift to Self-Insurance Amid Rising Health Costs

Overview: The Liberty County School Board is considering a transition from a fully insured to a self-insured health insurance model for its employees. This potential shift is driven by the need to manage escalating insurance costs more effectively. Discussions focused on the benefits and complexities of joining a collaborative program known as Fleet, which aims to provide transparency and collective bargaining power.

Southwick Conservation Commission Deliberates on Erosion Control Project and Considers Tree Management Policy

Overview: During the recent Southwick Conservation Commission meeting, members focused on a significant erosion control project on North Longard Road and debated a new tree management policy. The project aims to extend a storm drainage pipe to address chronic erosion issues, while the new policy could streamline processes for handling hazardous trees. Both topics saw discussion.

Belmar Borough Council Faces Controversy Over Mixed-Use Overlay Zones and Affordable Housing

Overview: In a recent Belmar Borough Council meeting, discussions focused on the implementation of mixed-use overlay zones in response to the borough’s affordable housing obligations and a controversial proposal for a four-story apartment complex on 4th Avenue. The council emphasized that these overlay zones are a preventative measure to avoid potential legal challenges and larger, less favorable developments. This meeting also featured discussions on local infrastructure, stormwater management, and community events.

Crescent City Commission Faces Community Divide Over Boat Race Proposal in Conservation Area

Overview: The Crescent City Commission meeting on February 26, 2026, was marked by discussions over a proposed drag boat racing event, which became a focal point of debate due to its potential environmental impact and community division. The proposal to hold the race in an area designated as a conservation zone sparked concerns about its alignment with the city’s comprehensive plan and the possible disruption of local wildlife habitats. This discourse underscored a broader tension between economic development and environmental preservation in Crescent City.