Hoboken School Board Approves Revised Tentative Budget

Overview: The Hoboken School Board convened to discuss and act upon several issues, including the renewal of the food service provider contract, the approval of the revised tentative budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, and various personnel changes. The meeting also acknowledged the achievements of students from the district’s schools and provided updates on committee activities.

Hoboken Council Grapples with Budget and Legal Costs Amid Election Talks

Overview: The Hoboken City Council recently convened to discuss issues revolving around the city’s budget, legal expenses, and election-related concerns. The meeting’s most pressing topic was the upcoming budget workshops and the analysis of each department’s budget, staffing changes, and mission statement. The Department of Administration and Finance’s proposed budget for the year stood at $7.7 million, accounting for 6% of the city’s total appropriations with a slight 1% year-over-year increase.

Hoboken Zoning Board Grapples with Tenant Protections in Development Debate

Overview: In a recent Hoboken Zoning Appeal Board meeting, the most significant issue discussed was the potential displacement of tenants due to the approval of a development project. The project in question involves the construction of a 22-unit development on three parcels of property on Grand Street, which has raised concerns among board members and the public regarding tenant rights, rent control, and the developer’s compliance with anti-eviction laws.

Hoboken Council Grapples with E-Bike Safety and Regulations

Overview: The Hoboken City Council meeting was marked by discussions over the regulation and safety of electric bicycles (ebikes), drawing public interest and prompting varied opinions from both residents and council members. The safety of pedestrians and the enforceability of the proposed ordinance were central to the deliberations.

Hoboken School Board Faces 24.35% Tax Levy Increase in Tentative Budget

Overview: In a recent Hoboken Board of Education meeting, the board discussed a tentative budget for the 2024-2025 school year, which includes a significant tax levy increase of 24.35%. Superintendent Christine Johnson presented the budget, outlining the challenges and key factors contributing to the increase, including the implications of the S2 legislation, which resulted in a loss of almost $2.9 million in state aid over five years. Despite these losses, the district managed to maintain an average tax levy increase of 5.12% since the 2019-2020 school year. The current proposed increase reflects the end of S2 state aid cuts, the transfer of previously federally funded items back to the general budget due to the expiration of COVID grants, and costs associated with contracts, aging facilities, and enrollment growth.