West Orange School Board Celebrates Pre-K Expansion Amidst Budget Concerns and Community Engagement

Overview: During the recent West Orange School Board meeting, the expansion of the district’s pre-kindergarten program emerged as the most significant topic, as the board celebrated the growth from zero to 600 pre-K seats over a five-year span. This expansion was highlighted by a presentation that underscored the district’s dedication to providing high-quality early childhood education. The board also focused on the challenges of teacher retention and the need for enhanced community engagement in light of fiscal constraints and upcoming budget planning.

West Orange Council Discusses Board Game Promoting Kindness, Parking Woes, and Budget Delays

Overview: The recent West Orange Town Council meeting on October 16, 2025, covered a range of community issues, including a presentation of a kindness-promoting board game, ongoing parking challenges near Seton Hall Prep, and delays in the municipal budget process. Residents and council members engaged in discussions, highlighting the need for improved communication and governance.

West Orange Town Council Grapples with Rising Costs of Affordable Housing Plan

Overview: The West Orange Town Council convened for a special session primarily to deliberate on a proposed resolution to extend funding for a contract with Hire Gruel and Associates, tasked with developing the township’s affordable housing plan. The original contract, set at $43,500, did not initially require council approval but an additional $23,000 was requested by the mayor to cover the contract through the year’s end, raising the total to $66,000. This funding request sparked a discussion about the financial oversight and scope of the planning services, highlighting concerns about increased costs and the necessity for clear contractual deliverables.

West Orange Council Examines Youth Sports Success, Safety Concerns, and Budget Challenges

Overview: The West Orange Town Council meeting on September 30, 2025, was marked by discussions surrounding youth sports achievements, pedestrian safety concerns, and the complexities of the municipal budget. The meeting served as a platform for recognizing local youth sports teams’ accomplishments, addressing crucial safety issues, and engaging in an in-depth analysis of the town’s financial framework.

West Orange Town Council Grapples With Forensic Audit Proposal Amid Budget Concerns

Overview: The West Orange Town Council meeting on September 12, 2025, was dominated by discussions about a proposed forensic audit intended to bring clarity and accountability to the municipality’s financial management. The council also addressed ongoing budget adjustments, reducing the proposed municipal tax increase to around 1%.