Highland Park Borough Council Addresses Anti-Semitism, Community Services, and Infrastructure Improvements

Overview: The Highland Park Borough Council recently convened to address a range of issues, including the rise of anti-Semitism, community center services, and infrastructure improvements. The council also acknowledged local achievements and discussed cultural celebrations in connection with Black History Month and the Lunar New Year.

Highland Park Redevelopment Agency Eyes Adaptive Reuse of Vacant Property for Affordable Housing

Overview: In an effort to address housing and land use within the community, the Highland Park Redevelopment Agency has set its sights on the potential adaptive reuse of a long-vacant property on South Second Avenue. The agency’s recent meeting revealed plans to consider a small-scale redevelopment that could transform the parcel into residential units, potentially offering affordable housing options to the neighborhood.

Highland Park School Board Addresses Student Achievement, Equity, and Facilities Expansion

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Highland Park School Board tackled a range of issues, including student proficiency assessments, interventions for students with disabilities, the impact of peer connect programs on school climate, curricular revisions aligned with new state standards, and dual enrollment opportunities with Middlesex College. The board also discussed the implementation of equity initiatives, financial updates, and preparations for the upcoming school year, including concerns over modular classroom delays and the process for filling vacant board positions.

Highland Park Rent Leveling Board Grapples with Hardship Claims and Rent Increases Under New Ordinance

Overview: The Highland Park Rent Leveling Board’s recent meeting was primarily centered on the challenging issues of defining landlord hardship and determining fair rent increases in light of the recently enacted rent control ordinance. The case of landlord Garrett, who cited financial difficulties under the new ordinance, was particularly prominent. Garrett’s appeal for a rent increase above the ordinance’s standard rate due to alleged hardships sparked a discussion about the fairness of rent adjustments and the future of local rent policies.

Highland Park Zoning Board Elects Officers and Appoints Professionals for 2024

Overview: In a swift reorganization meeting, the Highland Park Zoning Board appointed its officers and professional staff for the year 2024. Key positions filled included the Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Attorney, Planner, Engineer, and Clerk. The meeting also addressed the setting of meeting dates for the new year, the adoption of rules of order, and approval of past meeting minutes.