Franklin Planning Board Discusses Farmland Preservation Amidst Rising Appraisal Values

Overview: At the recent Franklin Planning Board meeting, discussion centered around the township’s farmland preservation efforts and the new valuation formula being introduced by the New Jersey Agriculture Development Committee. The board also covered routine appointments and addressed the delay of a planning application due to notification errors.

Franklin School Board Faces Division Over Regionalization Ballot Question Amid Communication Strategy Successes

Overview: The Franklin School Board meeting was marked by discussions on a proposed regionalization ballot question, highlighting significant divides among board members regarding the transparency and readiness of information provided to the public. The meeting also covered communication strategy advancements, including the successful implementation of new platforms to enhance engagement within the school community. Concerns about policy updates, state testing improvements, and budgetary considerations were also addressed.

Franklin Town Council Addresses Salary Increases and Local Recreation Grants

Overview: At a recent Franklin Town Council meeting, discussion centered around the approval of Ordinance 125, which establishes salary and wage increases for municipal officials and employees. The ordinance allows for substantial salary increases, raising concerns about the potential tax burden on residents. Additionally, the council authorized the submission of a grant application for local recreational improvements, focusing on renovations for two parks.

Franklin Environmental Commission Grapples with EPA Soil Testing Concerns and Membership Challenges

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Franklin Environmental Commission, discussion centered around the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) request for soil testing in the Tus Grove area, due to potential contamination from the Kilton site, a former peptide manufacturing facility in Vineland. Also on the agenda were issues surrounding recruitment of commission members and the handling of land use applications.

Mayor John “Jake” Bruno Sworn In for Another Term in Franklin

Overview: In a recent Franklin Town Council meeting, Mayor John “Jake” Bruno was sworn in for a new three-year term and subsequently re-elected as mayor for the year 2025. Tim Doyle was appointed deputy mayor. The meeting also focused on various administrative and procedural resolutions.