Princeton Council Declares City a Book Sanctuary

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Princeton Council unanimously passed a resolution declaring the city a book sanctuary, commending the Princeton Public Library Board of Trustees for its efforts in upholding the right to read. This decision was the focus of the council meeting, with discussions also encompassing the preservation of a historically significant parcel of land, improvements to the Center for Modern Aging Princeton, and the introduction of several bond ordinances for capital improvements.

Boston City Council Tackles Police Contracts and Housing Discrimination

Overview: The most recent Boston City Council meeting centered on the issues of collective bargaining agreements within the Boston Police Department and the pervasive challenge of housing discrimination in the city. The council delved into the complexities of police contracts, scrutinizing their financial implications and disciplinary provisions. Simultaneously, the meeting shone a light on the systemic barriers faced by voucher holders and marginalized communities in accessing fair housing, with powerful testimonies from residents and advocates calling for action.

Madison Embraces Native Plants in Sustainability Push

Overview: The Madison Borough Council meeting was marked by a strong focus on environmental sustainability, with a proposed native plant ordinance taking center stage. This initiative aims to bolster local ecosystems by encouraging the use of native flora on borough properties. Additionally, the council addressed safety concerns at a problematic intersection, discussed the introduction of a full-time EMS program, and celebrated community and employee milestones.

Fall River Housing Authority Addresses Tenant Debt Write-Offs and Approves Contracts

Overview: In the latest meeting of the Fall River Housing Authority, the board addressed significant tenant debt write-offs totaling over $316,000 and approved various contracts for housing projects and services. The discussion on the write-offs revealed the lingering financial impacts on tenants following the COVID-19 pandemic, with an upward trend in debts due to the drying up of third-party vendor payments. The contracts awarded included a boiler and domestic hot water heater replacement at George H. Cartel Heights and a three-year Moving and Storage service contract with an optional one-year extension. Additionally, the board approved affirmative action plans and multiple completion certificates for housing modernization projects.

Upper Township Recognizes Champions, Tackles Local Issues

Overview: The Upper Township Council meeting on a recent date was marked by the recognition of the Upper Township Basketball Association’s eighth-grade boys team for their championship win, the introduction of ordinances on the sale of undersized lots and public right of way regulations, discussions about a proposed hotel and traffic concerns, and concerns raised over drone activity in the area.