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.

Amherst Committee Advances Waste Management Bylaw and Roundabout Discussion

Overview: The Amherst Town Services and Outreach Committee meeting focused on a proposed waste management bylaw and the consideration of a roundabout at Amity University. These main topics were among the most issues discussed, including the need for a Request for Proposal (RFP) for waste hauler services and the potential impact of road proposals on town safety and infrastructure.

Somers Point Approves Bonds for Infrastructure and Development

Overview: The Somers Point City Council meeting addressed financial and developmental initiatives, including the approval of significant bond ordinances for city improvements and sewer utility capital, the second reading of an ordinance impacting local development, and discussions on tax abatement applications and national opioid settlement revenues.

North Miami Beach Advances Rapid Transit Zone Ordinance

Overview: The North Miami Beach City Council meeting saw a advancement in the city’s development with the approval of the Rapid Transit Zone (RTZ) ordinance, aimed at promoting transit use and reducing car dependency by allowing increased housing units and floor area ratio within a half-mile corridor. The RTZ, part of an effort to align city regulations with county requirements, garnered significant public comment ranging from concerns about increased traffic and changes in demographic to support for the growth and transit opportunities it presents. The cost of the study for the RTZ was mentioned to be around $50,000, with additional work likely.

Cumberland Eyes Collaboration with Salem County for Jail Solutions

Overview: Cumberland County is considering a groundbreaking partnership with Salem County to address its jail overcrowding issue, which has resulted in substantial inmate transfer costs. The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners discussed this potential collaboration in detail, along with a variety of significant regional development projects, during their latest meeting.