Jersey City Council Adopts Ordinance to Safeguard Bike Lanes and Addresses Rent Control Enforcement

Overview: At the Jersey City Council meeting on January 10, 2024, council members unanimously adopted City Ordinance 23-18 to conduct lead-based hazard inspections and adopted City Ordinance 23-1126, which sparked extensive discussion on the enforcement and protection of bike lanes. The ordinance’s adoption follows several residents voicing their concerns, including Jermaine Woodard, who shared a tragic personal story about the loss of his son in a bike lane. The council also tackled the issue of rent control, with the Law Department advising members not to comment publicly on the active litigation involving the Rent Leveling Board’s decision on the Portside Equity matter.

Red Bank Borough Council Approves New Borough Manager and Addresses Local Issues

Overview: The Red Bank Borough Council meeting was marked by several decisions and discussions, including the hiring of a new borough manager, the passage of a resolution supporting minimum nurse staffing in hospitals, and the approval of development agreements impacting public infrastructure. The council announced Jim Gant as the new borough manager, following an executive session, and expressed gratitude to Chief McConnell for his interim role. The meeting also highlighted community concerns over healthcare understaffing, the potential impact of the Transit Village project, and the necessity of park improvements at Count Basie Field.

New Brunswick Parks and Gardens Commission Plans Renovations and Community Engagement for Baker Park

Overview: The New Brunswick Parks and Gardens Commission is poised to undertake a renovation of Baker Park, with a focus on community engagement and the introduction of new amenities. The commission is exploring funding opportunities, including a $1.9 million grant, and engaging the public through surveys to inform the project’s direction. Amidst these discussions, the commission is also considering improvements to park security, addressing the problem of junk cars, and planning community events in anticipation of the budget approval.

Pasack Valley School Board Acknowledges Achievements, Discusses Traffic Issues, and Announces Leadership Transition

Overview: In a recent Pasack Valley School Board meeting, topics revolved around student success, traffic congestion around school premises, an impending leadership change, and a call for more inclusive communication. The meeting also acknowledged contributions of outgoing board member Dr. Kelly Blundy and celebrated a positive financial report.

Jersey City Council Grapples with Tax Appeals and Infrastructure Upgrades in Recent Meeting

Overview: In the latest Jersey City Council meeting, council members tackled a range of issues, from dealing with tax appeal liabilities to updating administrative fees for infrastructure-related permits. The meeting also featured debates about the Liberty Harbor North Redevelopment Plan and the introduction of new fees for vehicles blocking bike lanes.