Belmar School Board Faces Financial Challenges Amid Declining Enrollment and Rising Costs

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Belmar School Board focused on financial challenges, emphasizing declining enrollment and rising costs, notably in student tuition revenue and healthcare expenses. The board discussed a 3.69% tax levy increase and a significant 14% projected rise in healthcare costs, highlighting the district’s efforts to balance its budget while remaining below the state’s adequacy standard.

Belmar Council Discusses EMS Budget, Transition to Two-Town Model, and Underage Drinking Law Concerns

Overview: The recent Belmar Borough Council meeting focused on several topics, including updates on the borough’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) operations, a transition from a four-town to a two-town service model, and the challenges posed by current underage drinking laws. These discussions were accompanied by community-oriented initiatives and concerns about local business impacts during events.

Belmar Library Board Considers Annual Fees for Non-Residents Amid Financial Concerns

Overview: The Belmar Library Board of Trustees recently debated the introduction of an annual fee for non-resident library cardholders, a shift from the previous $25 lifetime fee. The proposed change aims to address the financial burden of digital service subscriptions, such as Hoopla, which costs the library approximately $1,000 monthly. The board discussed setting the fee at $40, with exceptions for those experiencing financial hardship to ensure library access for all.

Belmar Housing Authority Faces Criticism Over Safety and Maintenance Concerns

Overview: At the recent Belmar Housing Authority meeting, attention was drawn to safety and maintenance issues within the community, highlighted by serious complaints about graffiti, heating, and building safety. These discussions took place amid debates over board member appointments and resignation processes. Residents voiced their frustrations with the Housing Authority’s response to ongoing challenges, prompting commissioners to pledge further investigation and community involvement.

Belmar Zoning Board Revisits Cronin Application, Approves Pool House Proposal, and More

Overview: In a recent session, the Belmar Zoning Board undertook notable decisions including revisiting a prior approval for the Cronin application, evaluating a pool house proposal by the Croco family, and addressing multiple property applications, with an emphasis on compliance with zoning regulations and community standards.