Franklin Township Council Highlights Transgender Day of Visibility and Addresses Warehouse Safety Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting that spotlighted the observance of Transgender Day of Visibility, the Franklin Township Council underscored its commitment to inclusivity and community safety. Mayor Phil Kramer led a proclamation recognizing the day. The meeting also addressed significant safety concerns related to warehouse operations within the township, reflecting ongoing community apprehension about emergency response capabilities and infrastructure demands.

Franklin School Board Confronts Budget Cuts and Explores Solar Expansion

Overview: The Franklin School Board meeting on March 18, 2025, addressed financial challenges, with a primary focus on the preliminary fiscal year 2026 budget. The board discussed necessary program and staffing adjustments to offset reduced state aid and inflation impacts. The meeting also highlighted initiatives for sustainable energy solutions, such as the expansion of solar panel programs, which promise future financial benefits.

Franklin Environmental Commission Raises Concerns Over Onyx Warehouse Proposal and Pipeline Safety

Overview: The Franklin Environmental Commission meeting focused on the contentious Onyx warehouse proposal, which has been postponed to April 2nd due to the planning board’s inactivity in March. Concerns were expressed about the project’s proximity to pipelines, with Buckeye, the pipeline owner, highlighting potential risks. The proposal, which initially reduced the pipeline distance from 21 feet to 40 feet, faces scrutiny, especially with Somerset Run and Canal Walk organizations contesting the project. The commission doubted the application’s approval, citing logistical issues with tractor-trailer access and the need to import HP soil, complicating pipeline repairs.

Franklin Township Council Debates Fire District Budget and Backyard Chicken Ordinance

Overview: The Franklin Township Council meeting featured discussions on the contentious budget allocations for local fire districts and the introduction of a new ordinance regarding backyard chickens. The meeting included passionate debates over financial assessments, community safety, and urban agriculture.

Franklin Town Council Discusses $750,000 Youth Center Grant and Capital Budget Priorities

Overview: During the recent Franklin Town Council meeting, discussions centered on the allocation of a $750,000 grant from the Department of Community Affairs for the youth center, alongside various capital budget proposals addressing technology upgrades and security enhancements for municipal facilities. The grant has enabled a substantial expansion of the youth center’s programs, though concerns about the sustainability of this funding were raised, as its renewal remains uncertain.