South Orange-Maplewood School Board Faces Budget Cuts, Community Calls for Action

Overview: The recent South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting was dominated by public comments from students, parents, and community members concerned about potential budget cuts to the district’s arts and STEM programs. The meeting, which did not specify which board members were present, revealed a community deeply worried about the educational and cultural repercussions of the proposed financial decisions.

Maplewood Tackles Rise in Burglaries and Traffic Violations

Overview: Maplewood Town Council’s recent meeting addressed a surge in nighttime burglaries, thefts, and traffic violations, alongside community concerns about dog-related issues and the recognition of police valor. Top on the agenda was the increase in thefts, particularly of high-end vehicles, and the council’s deliberation on measures to strengthen local security and engage with the community to prevent future incidents.

Maplewood Tackles Budget and Capital Improvements Amid Community Concerns

Overview: The Maplewood Town Council meeting addressed a series of pressing local issues, with a particular focus on the township’s budget and capital improvements. The council reviewed amendments to the 2024 municipal budget, including adjustments to revenues and appropriations, and discussed the issuance of bonds or notes to finance various township improvements. Moreover, the meeting featured discussions on a shared service agreement for a Greenway project, redevelopment area amendments, and a new code of conduct for youth activities. Concerns about parking lot conditions and environmental health, including noise complaints from Maplewood Beverage Packers and air quality issues, were also prominent topics.

South Orange-Maplewood School Board Community Rallies to Save Arts Programs Amidst Budget Cuts

Overview: In a recent South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting, the potential budget cuts to the Arts and Music Department dominated discussions, drawing strong opposition from students, community members, and educators. The reduction in force, which could affect class sizes and lead to the elimination of positions, was also a concern. These issues were compounded by the financial challenges the district faces, including a $37 million drop in total aid and the threat of increased taxes for residents.

Maplewood Considers Pioneering Storm Water Utility

Overview: The Maplewood Town Council recently convened to deliberate on a range of pressing municipal matters, with the potential establishment of a storm water utility dominating the agenda. The council’s discussions centered on improving the township’s storm sewer system’s capacity and efficiency in response to climate change. The proposal, presented by Arcadis representatives, highlighted Maplewood’s opportunity to become a model for other New Jersey municipalities. The council also debated the impact of proposed fees based on impervious surfaces, the equitable distribution of charges, and the implementation of a credit policy for property owners. Moreover, the plan for a storm water utility was not the only significant topic; the meeting addressed the recognition of Robert McCoy for his contributions to Maplewood’s sustainability, the establishment of Youth Week, the debate over a code of conduct ordinance, and a proposed ordinance to protect potential historic buildings from demolition.