Volusia ECHO Committee Plans for 17 New Projects

Overview: The Volusia ECHO Advisory Committee convened to discuss an array of topics central to the development and enhancement of the community’s environmental, cultural, historic, and outdoor assets. The meeting’s most focus was on the updated Direct County Expenditure (DCE) plan, which proposed an additional $6.4 million in funding for 17 new projects. These projects spanned across various categories, including outdoor recreation, environmental, and cultural and historic projects, with the intent to improve facilities like playgrounds, parks, and the Ocean Center.

Fair Haven Zoning Board Grants Variance for Local Business Amidst Parking Debate

Overview: The Fair Haven Zoning Board recently held a meeting where they addressed several issues, the most significant of which was the approval of a variance for a local business, Sticks and Sprouts, which provides outdoor education opportunities for children. The variance was granted with specific conditions related to parking space requirements.

Somers Point City Celebrates Autism Awareness

Overview: In a show of community support, the Somers Point City Council resolved to recognize April as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. The resolution was one of the key outcomes of the recent council meeting, which also included announcements of a significant grant for Bay Avenue and discussions on a new tree ordinance, among other community-focused topics.

Southwick Lake Management Committee Backs Hydrilla Control Program

Overview: In a recent Southwick Lake Management Committee meeting, a development focused on the management of hydrilla, an invasive aquatic plant threatening local ecosystems. The Committee expressed unanimous support for a fully funded three-year assessment and treatment program to address the hydrilla situation in the lake. The program is backed by a grant from the Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Additionally, the meeting covered the nomination of a committee member to liaise with a neighboring Conservation Commission, discussions on a new grant from the select board, the introduction of a CEO candidate from Hardwick, Massachusetts, and the planning of a new South ramp building.

Allendale Council Moves to Exceed Budget Cap, Introduces New Ordinances

Overview: The Allendale Borough Council convened on April 11th to address a series of ordinances and agreements, as well as to introduce the 2024 Municipal budget. Among the decisions, the Council introduced an ordinance to establish a 3.5% increase in the budget cap and held a second reading on amending the Outdoor Cafe code. The meeting encompassed discussions on public safety, infrastructure, and municipal governance, with the Mayor highlighting the challenges of affordable housing as per the Fair Share Housing legislation.