Franklin Township Grapples with Pipeline Proposal and Environmental Concerns in Town Council Meeting

Overview: The Franklin Town Council meeting saw an array of topics, with the renewed application for a controversial gas pipeline taking center stage. The council also tackled environmental initiatives, including a proposed curbside composting program and the removal of the Blackwell Mills Dam to benefit local ecosystems. Concerns about warehouse developments, flood risks, and community outreach initiatives were also covered.

Franklin School Board Celebrates Achievements in Music and Environmental Initiatives

Overview: The Franklin (Somerset County) School Board meeting on May 28, 2025, was marked by a series of recognitions and announcements that highlighted the district’s achievements in music education and environmental sustainability. The meeting also covered the introduction of new scholarships, updates on end-of-year activities, and the acknowledgment of community contributions.

Franklin Library Board Approves 6.29% Budget Increase, Discusses Capital Improvements and Advocacy Efforts

Overview: At the recent meeting of the Franklin Township Public Library Board of Trustees, members unanimously approved a 6.29% budget increase for the upcoming fiscal year, raising the budget to $15.2 million. This increase aims to accommodate both operating expenses and future capital improvements, while also addressing inflation. The meeting also covered topics such as advocating for federal emergency funding eligibility for libraries and the potential involvement in local “little free library” initiatives.

Franklin Town Council Tackles Cannabis Dispensary Saturation and Youth Advocacy Initiatives

Overview: The Franklin Town Council’s recent meeting addressed the saturation of cannabis dispensaries, the efforts of local youth in mental health advocacy, and various community concerns ranging from traffic issues to cultural diversity.

Franklin Planning Board Reviews Retail Development and Warehouse Expansion Amid Environmental Concerns

Overview: At a recent Franklin Planning Board meeting, discussions centered around two development proposals: a retail shopping center on Davidson Avenue and a warehouse expansion on Cottontail Lane. Both projects raised concerns regarding site layout, environmental impact, and compliance with local regulations. The board examined plans, heard expert testimonies, and debated various aspects, including parking, landscaping, and traffic management.