Evesham School Board Approves Budget with Tax Increase

Overview: The Evesham School Board recently convened to finalize and approve the budget for the 2024-2025 school year, which includes a 3.9% tax levy increase. During the meeting, the board detailed the revisions from the previously presented budget, highlighting the financial implications for the district and taxpayers. The approved budget will see an increase in the tax levy from $1.7 million to $2.66 million, resulting in an annual tax dollar increase for the average assessed home from $92.81 to $144.64, with the tax rate moving from 1.322 to 1.34.

Ventnor City Council Discusses Beach Replenishment and Parking Issues

Overview: The Ventnor City Council recently convened to deliberate on a variety of topics ranging from beach replenishment to local parking concerns, with the most attention given to the beachfront’s future and the impact of local parking changes on residents. The council’s discussion on the beach replenishment project, backed by Congressman Van Drew, highlighted the project’s hefty price tag and the need for careful financial planning. Additionally, residents voiced apprehensions regarding new parking line regulations and the potential effects on property access and public parking availability.

Lunenburg Finance Committee Explores School Funding and Transportation Reforms

Overview: In a recent session, the Lunenburg Finance Committee tackled issues surrounding school funding reforms, the complexities of the Chapter 70 formula, and potential regulatory changes to school transportation contracts. The committee also explored the town manager selection process, involvement of the public in government, and budgeting practices, revealing a dedication to addressing pressing financial concerns for the betterment of the community.

Beach Haven Council Debates Business District Overlay Zone

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Beach Haven Borough Council’s agenda focused on the proposal of an overlay zone aimed at preserving the character and viability of the town’s business district. Among other issues, the council approved special conditions on liquor licenses for local businesses and discussed sewer rate discrepancies and lease renewals.

Highland Beach Prioritizes Sewer Project Amid Financial Discussions

Overview: The Highland Beach Financial Advisory Board meeting addressed a range of financial matters, with the most pressing topic being the urgency to move forward with a major sewer relining project, aimed at preventing sewage overflow in the streets. The project, designed and shelf-ready with all necessary engineering specifications, is estimated to cost between $3-5 million. The board considered various funding options, including grants, low-interest loans, and breaking the project into phases for more flexible access to funds. While acknowledging the length of the process to secure grant money and attractive financing through state and federal cooperative programs, the board discussed the supply chain’s impact on project costs and expressed a preference for executing the project as a whole.