Ridgewood Council Approves $1.35 Million Bond for Soil Remediation at Shedler Property

Overview: The Ridgewood Village Council meeting on March 25th focused on several community issues, including the approval of a $1.35 million bond for soil remediation at the Shedler property, discussions about property reassessments scheduled for 2026, and ongoing concerns regarding park development and sanitation management.

Ridgewood School Board Faces Budget Strain Amid Rising Health Costs and Transportation Changes

Overview: The Ridgewood School Board meeting delved into several issues, with budgetary concerns and transportation adjustments dominating the agenda. The board grappled with rising healthcare costs, an impending decision on subscription busing, and the consolidation of educational positions as part of efforts to balance the district’s finances. The meeting also saw community members voicing concerns over educational program changes and the need for transparency in decision-making.

Ridgewood School Board Faces Budget Strain Amid Rising Costs and Busing Concerns

Overview: The Ridgewood School Board convened to address pressing budgetary challenges driven by escalating healthcare costs and the complexities surrounding courtesy busing services. The district’s superintendent, Mark Schwarz, outlined potential measures to alleviate financial stress, including staff reductions and exploring revenue-generating strategies, while emphasizing their reluctance to pass these costs onto taxpayers.

Ridgewood School Board Grapples with Budget Challenges, Safety Concerns, and Artificial Turf Debate

Overview: The Ridgewood School Board meeting was dominated by discussions on budgetary constraints, concerns over student safety, and debates surrounding artificial turf. The board addressed a projected budget deficit, the implications of a potential tax levy increase, and community concerns about courtesy busing and environmental impacts of turf fields.

Ridgewood Council Introduces 2026 Budget with a 3.98% Tax Levy Increase Amid Rising Costs

Overview: The Ridgewood Council introduced the 2026 municipal budget during its recent meeting, highlighting a 3.98% increase in the tax levy compared to 2025, largely due to significant rises in health benefits costs. The budget presentation, postponed from the previous month, was the primary focus of the meeting, addressing financial challenges and outlining priorities for the coming year.