Franklin School Board Tackles Student Performance and School Consolidation

Overview: The most topics discussed during the recent Franklin (Gloucester County) School Board meeting included the analysis of end-of-year student data and the consolidation of schools. The Board delved into student performance data, emphasizing the need for continued improvement in reading and math, while also addressing the complexities surrounding the consolidation of Franklin and Elmer schools, excluding Newfield due to unresolved issues.

Franklin Council Tackles Tree Protection and Property Tax Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Franklin (Gloucester County) Town Council engaged in discussions surrounding the implementation of a tree ordinance, the renunciation of ownership of township properties, and the intricate matters of the town’s budget, particularly addressing property tax reassessment and its potential effects on residents. The council also delved into other issues including the open space trust fund, salary considerations for non-represented positions, and project updates such as the Piney Hollow preservation trail improvement.

Franklin Commission Debates Funding for Orlock Save Project

Overview: At the recent Franklin Environmental Commission meeting, members engaged in a debate over the allocation of funds for the Orlock Save project, a significant engagement given the potential impact on local land preservation. The discussion centered on whether the open space fund, typically reserved for farmland preservation, could also be utilized for the Orlock Save project. While one member cited a resolution they believed restricted the use of the fund solely for farmland, another member countered, arguing that the fund’s scope included both open space and farmland preservation. This disagreement underscored the meeting’s focus on the effective stewardship of the township’s environmental and financial resources.

Franklin Planning Board Tackles Zoning Code Overhaul and Solar Project

Overview: In a recent Franklin Planning Board meeting, steps were taken to refine and update zoning and development regulations, including the approval of a resolution for the Gler Solar One LLC project. Additionally, the meeting delved into the process of master plan reexamination, with a subcommittee presenting a draft report proposing numerous ordinance changes, addressing the clarity of definitions related to major and minor development, and discussing the incorporation of redevelopment plans into the township’s master plan.

Franklin Council Approves K9 Donation, Debates Infrastructure Concerns

Overview: The Franklin Town Council’s recent meeting was marked by the approval of a K9 donation to the police department and vigorous discussions on infrastructure issues, including road improvements and tree ordinances. The council also honored Big Papa J’s Barbecue for supporting local law enforcement during National Police Week.