Deal Lake Commission Tackles Grants, Goose Remediation, and Supports Student Research

Overview: The recent meeting of the Deal Lake Commission brought to light various topics, including the challenges with the 319 grant payment process, the commission’s involvement in supporting a high school student’s environmental research, and ongoing efforts in goose remediation and lakefront education. Furthermore, the commission recognized July 2024 as Lake Appreciation Month and discussed the need for additional support due to staffing shortages in the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Asbury Park Planning Board Extends Beach Club Zoning Protections

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Asbury Park Planning Board approved a two-year extension of zoning protection for a beach club project proposed by Asbury Partners, despite lingering questions over the project’s approvals and the impact of new FEMA regulations. The board’s decision allows more time for the developer to obtain necessary governmental consents, but raised concerns among board members and residents about the project’s timeline and potential changes to plans.

Asbury Park Zoning Board Approves Pool Placement

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Asbury Park Zoning Board approved a contentious pool placement application, despite split opinions and a detailed public discussion on the project’s compliance with local zoning regulations. The board’s decision to greenlight the pool, which is to be located in the front yard of a property, came with several stipulations. These included relocating mechanical equipment, preserving existing trees, adjusting stormwater piping, and potentially adding a fence behind the pool equipment to address safety and aesthetic concerns.

Asbury Park Plans Multifunctional Development on Springwood Avenue

Overview: The Asbury Park Planning Board’s recent meeting centered on an in-depth review of a multifaceted development proposal by Interfaith Neighbors Inc. for the Marora Center on Springwood Avenue. The project, which encompasses affordable housing units, an early childhood learning center named after Dr. Lorenzo Harris, and a space for the Asbury Park Museum Society, drew both board scrutiny and public interest, particularly regarding its impact on the community, security measures, and architectural design.

Asbury Park School Board Grapples with Budget and Charter School Funding

Overview: The Asbury Park School Board meeting centered around the challenges of the district’s budget, significant funding allocated to charter schools, and the associated impact on the district’s ability to provide services. Financial discussions took precedence, with debates arising over the allocation of funds, state aid reductions, and the pursuit of additional revenue sources. Community members, while appreciating the return of $1.8 million in state aid, expressed concerns over the distribution of these funds, especially with $950,000 being allocated to charter schools. The debate intensified with discussions on the accuracy of incident reporting in schools, the appointment of positions, and the formation of committees to address attendance and special education needs.