Community Outcry Over Howard Street Zoning Changes Dominates Phillipsburg Land Use Board Meeting

Overview: The Phillipsburg Land Use Board meeting on December 19, 2024, was primarily centered around the contentious zoning reclassification of the Howard Street area from residential to industrial, sparking significant public discontent and calls for greater transparency and community involvement in the decision-making process. The board also addressed updates to the master plan and ongoing zoning map revisions, while considering climate impact assessments and future land use planning.

Lawrence Licensing Board Approves New Sports Bar and Other Business Licenses at Final 2024 Meeting

Overview: In its final meeting of 2024, the Lawrence Licensing Board granted approval for a new sports bar and lounge to open on Newbury Street, among other licenses. The board also addressed routine business licenses and set the date for their January meeting.

Ventnor City Grapples with Abandoned Boats and Public Safety Concerns in Council Meeting

Overview: The Ventnor City Council meeting centered on addressing a burgeoning issue with abandoned boats along local waterways, highlighting public safety concerns and the need for stricter regulations. Additional discussions covered infrastructure improvements, new municipal hires, and community events.

Livingston Secures Grant for Mental Health Initiatives, Expands Dog-Friendly Areas

Overview: The recent Livingston Town Council meeting highlighted a grant awarded for mental health initiatives under the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign and introduced new legislation to expand dog-friendly areas in the township.

Paterson City Council Faces Debates on Homelessness and Community Projects

Overview: During a recent Paterson City Council meeting, discussions unfolded as council members grappled with multifaceted issues, chiefly the growing homelessness crisis and the allocation of funds for community projects. The proposed ordinance to address vagrancy and homelessness in public spaces sparked debate, highlighting the complexities of enforcing such measures and the strain on local resources. Council members expressed varied opinions on the ordinance, which seeks to impose fines and penalties for camping in public areas without offering adequate shelter solutions, reflecting deep divisions on how to balance enforcement with compassion.