River Edge Land Use Board Delays Decision on Bertini Property

Overview: The River Edge Land Use Board meeting on May 8, 2024, concluded with a decision to delay action on Jack Bertini’s application for a d variance and use variance, pending the submission of accurate property documentation and a detailed description of the proposed basement use. The board’s deliberations raised concerns over discrepancies between the property’s survey map and actual conditions, as well as the need for a handicapped parking spot and the implications of formalizing the basement’s use.

River Edge School Board Faces Budget Strain and Staff Cuts

Overview: The River Edge School Board’s recent meeting centered on the issue of the adoption of the 2024 budget, spotlighting the district’s financial challenges, including staff reductions and an increase in health benefits. Amid these concerns, the board also addressed various aspects of school operations, from safety measures to mental health awareness, and expressed appreciation for the school staff.

River Dell School Board Confronts Budget Cuts and Celebrates Achievements

Overview: The River Dell School Board meeting addressed a budget challenge while also recognizing student and school accomplishments. A notable $300,000 reduction in state aid, constituting an 11% decrease, was a primary focus. Despite this financial obstacle, the Board discussed a proposed budget that aims to preserve district staff, academic programs, extracurricular activities, and transportation services while adhering to state-mandated caps. The budget presentation also detailed the municipal tax levy’s impact on River Edge and Oradell residents.

River Edge Approves 40-Square-Foot Business Sign

Overview: In a recent session, River Edge Land Use Board approved a large 40-square-foot sign for a local business amid concerns over its potential visual impact compared to the previous signage. This decision came after a thorough debate on the sign’s size, which some board members found excessive, considering the full backing that would make it appear much larger than the former individual lettering without backing. The approval is contingent upon the fulfillment of a previous condition from 2018, which required the business to update the streetscape—a task that remains incomplete.

River Edge Council Faces Pushback on Shade Tree Commission Changes

Overview: At the recent River Edge Borough Council meeting, one notable issue appeared to involve the proposed changes to the Shade Tree Commission, which sparked significant public concern. Residents voiced apprehensions about the potential dissolution of the commission and the implications for the community’s urban forest and volunteer involvement. The council’s responses to these concerns, discussions on the municipal budget’s spending cap, and the insurance implications of new recreational developments were also notable topics of the meeting.