Long Branch City Council Honors Arab American Heritage Month

Overview: The Long Branch City Council meeting highlighted the contributions of Arab Americans by declaring April as Arab American Heritage Month. A proclamation was read by Adam ABD Wahad, a sophomore at Long Branch High School, recognizing the myriad contributions of Arab Americans to various sectors in American society, including science, medicine, education, business, culture, and government. The proclamation also acknowledged the leadership roles Arab Americans have played in government and their efforts in fostering strong families and communities.

Long Branch Council Addresses Budget and Public Safety Concerns

Overview: The Long Branch City Council meeting addressed issues, including a proposed ordinance to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits and serious public safety concerns involving untrained fire personnel and allegations of false fire training certificates. The council also paused to honor a former employee with a moment of silence.

Long Branch City Council Addresses Tree Preservation and Development Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Long Branch City Council discussed a range of issues from tree preservation initiatives to concerns about local development projects. The meeting was marked by a public hearing on an ordinance regarding the extension of Broadway, discussions on environmental sustainability, and community engagement on local development plans.

Long Branch City Council Addresses Potential $10 Million School Budget Cut

Overview: In a recent Long Branch City Council meeting, the issue of a potential $10 million reduction in state aid for Long Branch public schools dominated discussions. The significant funding cut, the largest across New Jersey’s school districts, could negatively impact local education programs and services. During the public participation segment, Alex Smiga, a teacher and vice president of the Long Branch School Employees Association, expressed deep concerns about how these cuts would hurt the community, especially the students. Smiga urged the city council and audience members to amplify their message to state legislators and advocate for additional state aid to mitigate the drastic funding reductions.

Long Branch City Council Advances Pier Reconstruction with State Grant

Overview: At the recent Long Branch City Council meeting, a development was announced regarding the construction of a new fishing and pedestrian pier, thanks to a substantial state grant. Mayor John Pallone revealed that the city received a $3.25 million grant from the state Boardwalk Preservation Fund, which will enable the revitalization of a historic Long Branch landmark. The pier, envisioned to be approximately 500 feet long, is set to be fully ADA accessible and will be located along the right-of-way next to the L Street beach. The project commencement is slated for the year 2025, with more details to be released in the coming months.