Highland Park City Council Discusses School Funding, Cannabis Licenses, and Community Initiatives

Overview: In a recent Highland Park City Council meeting, topics of discussion and decision-making included the allocation of payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) money to local schools, the issuance of a retail cannabis shop license, and the formation of a supermarket advisory committee. The council addressed concerns raised by residents regarding the number of marijuana dispensaries in the town and the process of issuing cannabis licenses. The meeting also covered the Mayor’s report on community policing and the impact of food insecurity on poverty and crime, as well as updates on various community services and events.

Middlesex County Board of Elections Discusses Redistricting, Voter Experience, and Poll Worker Training

Overview: In a session, the Middlesex County Board of Elections tackled a range of issues from redistricting discrepancies to enhancing the voter experience. The board unanimously approved adjustments to the district lines in Carlin Park, Highland Park. Amidst administrative reports and public comments, concerns were raised over transportation accessibility to meeting locations. The meeting also spotlighted the importance of poll worker training, with proposals to implement signage near voting machines and mandatory refresher courses for poll workers to ensure procedural accuracy and improve the overall voting process.

Middlesex County Joint Insurance Fund Emphasizes Compliance and Financial Efficiency, Welcomes New Executive Director

Overview: The Middlesex County Joint Insurance Fund (JIF) concluded its recent meeting with a series of key resolutions and discussions that will shape the organization’s direction in 2024. The meeting saw the unanimous selection of Harry Delgado as the new chairman and Joe Zang as the secretary, along with the welcoming of Barbara Murphy as the incoming executive director for the following year. The JIF also underscored the importance of safety compliance, particularly in fire departments, and recognized the financial strides made in 2023 with a positive cash situation and savings. Additionally, the meeting addressed concerns over meeting attendance and the transition to in-person gatherings.

Highland Park School Board Elects New President, Sets Goals, and Addresses Community Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Highland Park School Board swore in its new members, elected Marilyn Pruce as the board’s president and vice president, and appointed committee chairs and liaisons. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the board’s ongoing goals, particularly emphasizing the importance of community communication and the development of a strategic plan, which includes a 5-year plan for full-day preschool. Additionally, the board heard from community members on the safety concerns regarding school start times.

Highland Park Borough Council Inaugurates Mayor Elsie Foster and Council Members; Focuses on 2024 Priorities

Overview: In a recent gathering of the Highland Park Borough Council, Mayor Elsie Foster, alongside councilpersons Matthew Hersh and Jason Postelnik, were sworn into office, marking the commencement of their terms. The ceremony, officiated by Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, set the stage for the year ahead. Mayor Foster used this platform to deliver the State of the Borough address, articulating an ambitious vision for 2024, including the support of new businesses like the Super Fresh supermarket, the completion of library renovations, and a strong emphasis on downtown redevelopment.