Highland Park Faces Increased Property Taxes and Utility Rates

Overview: The Highland Park Borough Council meeting highlighted pressing budgetary concerns, including a proposed property tax increase and a 10% rise in water utility charges. Detailed discussions also focused on the budget’s impact on public safety, public works, and the general administration, with a portion of the budget allocated to these areas. The mayor provided an overview of the fiscal plan, noting an estimated 3% increase in the average property tax bill and a $1.5 million hike in the amount to be raised by taxes. The budgetary challenges are compounded by a decrease in the total assessed value of the borough and higher costs for purchasing water, which the council is addressing by utilizing surplus funds and considering rate increases.

Highland Park Council Grapples with Supermarket Tax Concerns

Overview: During the latest Highland Park Borough Council meeting, attention was given to the financial and community impact of a new supermarket entering the local market. This discussion included the examination of a pilot (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement with DL Urban Renewal LLC, the operator behind the anticipated Superfresh store, and its implications for tax revenue and local economic structure.

Highland Park School Board Addresses Budget and Principal Search

Overview: The recent Highland Park School Board meeting addressed issues including the preliminary budget for the next fiscal year and the selection of a new high school principal. The budget focused on maintaining staff levels and class sizes, expanding programs, and facility improvements, while the search for a new principal culminated in the introduction of Dr. Christina Donovan as the recommended candidate.

Highland Park Planning Board Approves JSM at Highland Park LLC’s Subdivision

Overview: In a recent Highland Park Planning Board meeting, the board approved JSM at Highland Park LLC’s application for a reverse subdivision of the Buck Woods property. This action consolidates 49 small lots into one larger property, clearing the way for the previously approved construction without altering the site plan.

Superfresh Grocery Store Revival Anchors Highland Park Redevelopment

Overview: Highland Park’s redevelopment efforts have taken a significant leap forward with the announcement of a financial agreement to reintroduce the Superfresh grocery store to the community. During the latest meeting of the Highland Park Redevelopment Entity, the focus centered on the crucial agreement that would enable a new operator to take over the supermarket, providing a much-needed service to the area. The terms of the agreement include a 30-year payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) starting at $50,000 annually, increasing by 2% each year.